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How To Buy Face Masks Responsibly During The UK's Coronavirus Outbreak
by Bustle UK
Originally Published: May 6, 2020
Onstail/Etsy
While health and government officials remain divided on the use of face masks in the fight against COVID-19, a number of countries across the world have now deemed them mandatory, and the UK government is advising people where them in enclosed spaces. But with the NHS suffering from significant personal protective equipment (PPE) shortages, many are worried about whether buying masks will affect those desperately in need. In light of this, Bustle has put together a list of independent brands selling face masks in the UK in a responsible way.
Before you begin browsing, it is important to remember that these are not medical-grade masks and they certainly do not offer a be-all-and-end-all solution the spreading of COVID-19. Even when you are wearing a mask, you should practice social distancing and you should continue to wash your hands regularly. And remember, although it may be tempting to touch your face while wearing a mask to make adjustments or have a quick scratch, this is absolutely the opposite of what they're there for. In other words, do not touch your face while wearing them.
The UK government website now has a page dedicated to the proper practices when it comes to wearing a face mask, and the WHO has published a document with advise also. If you are interested in making your own mask from materials around your home, the gov.uk page also has instructions on how to do that.
The masks listed below are reusable but you must wash them between each usage. According to Dr Yves Van Laethem, an infectious disease expert who spoke to the Brussels Times, "face masks should be machine washed at 60 degrees Celsius with conventional detergent — you don't need any particular disinfectants." If you do not have access to a washing machine, Van Laethem suggests putting the face mask in a pot with simmering water or ironing it at a temperature "above that at which the virus may survive."
And one final thing: anyone who has a medical-grade face mask who is not deemed a 'key worker' should consider donating their supply to their local hospital. Details about donating should be available on the hospital's website.
We only include products that have been independently selected by Bustle UK's editorial team. However, we may receive a portion of sales if you purchase a product through a link in this article.
Face Mask With Filter Pocket
Onstail
These face masks from Onstail, a small studio in South East London, are all made to order. An internal pocket has been added to allow wearer to insert a PM2.5 filter (found on Amazon or elsewhere online), which may offer additional protection. Onstail suggests washing these by hand.
See on Etsy
Organic Linen Mask
Plümo
Plümo's masks are made from four layers of natural, 100% linen fabric and can be put in the washing machine even at high temperatures. And, best of all, for every mask sold, Plümo is donating to Masks for NHS Heroes.
See on Plümo
Cosmos Effusion Cotton Mask
Isabel Manns
Isabel Manns' Cosmos Effusion Cotton Mask has a gap in the lining so that wearers can place a piece of filter fabric inside. And 50% of the proceeds go to the NHS.
See on Isabel Manns
Pack Of Three Masks
Edeline Lee
Edeline Lee is selling these Polyproylene masks in packs of three for £40. The designer is directing 100% of the proceeds from the sales of these masks to their Non Profit Mask-Making Project. As their website states, "Each purchase will cover the materials and logistical costs of a further 80 volunteer-made masks to be donated to frontline workers who can wear these over their officially-issued respirators to make them last longer."
See on Edeline Lee
Wave Print Face Mask
Goozeberryhill
Goozeberryhill, a vintage cutlery store in Swansea, Wales, begun making face masks during the COVID-19 pandemic. These cotton masks can only sustain 40 degrees Celsius in the washing machine, but they can be ironed (everywhere but the elastic). Best of all, £1 from every purchase will be donated to help fund fabric to make scrubs for front line workers
Anti Pollution Face Masks
Olganna
These double-layer cotton face masks are handmade in Manchester and offer impressive coverage. They also have a pocket inside in case wearer wants to add an extra filter.
Made-To-Order Face Mask With Filter Pocket
TaggyTots
These masks are made to order and can be requested in large adult, adult, kid, or preschool (nursery) sizes. They also have a pocket if wearers wish to slip in an additional piece of filter material. They can be washed at 60 degrees Celsius and tumble dried and, for every one mask purchased, TaggyTots will donate one to its local hospital. Plus, 10 percent of the profits made are going towards an NHS charity.
CharmsAndNails
These eco-friendly masks are 100% cotton and machine washable (though the seller suggests air drying them). They are pleated, a design that some wearers prefer.
Galaxy Print Face Mask
BlueHawkDesigns
These cotton masks are handmade in Elderslie, Scotland, and come with soft, t-shirt yarn ties that fit around the head – perfect for anyone who finds ear loops painful or annoying. For every purchase, BlueHawkDesigns makes a 50p donation to the NHS Charities Together.
And Breeeeeth Mask
the company of X
These masks from the company of X allow you to make more of a statement. The London supplier they are supporting through the sale of these items is also delivering masks to local social care organisations and hospitals. The website suggests washing them at 30 degrees Celsius but, per Van Laethem's advice, you may be better off hand washing them in simmering water. It may be worth getting in touch with the company of X customer care team to as their advice on this.
See on the company of X
Linen Face Mask
OlgaGillies
The team atOlga Gillies, a handmade jewellery store based in Newcastle, have turned their attention to making masks during the COVID-10 crisis. These linen masks can withstand 60 degree Celsius, their Etsy store states, but they recommended hand washing. There is also a pocket if you want to slip in an additional filter.
Pack Of Three Cotton Face Masks
Lavendar Hill Clothing
These masks are triple-layered and 100% cotton. For £20, you will be sent a pack of three masks 3 masks: one in navy, one in denim blue, and one in hot pink. And, for every pack purchased, Lavendar Hill Clothing is donating a pack to the Katherine Low Settlement, a charity providing immediate and much-needed support to children, young people, the elderly, women and refugee communities in Battersea, London.
See on Lavendar Hill Clothing
Space Face Mask
Nosy Rosie Crafts
Nosy Rosie Crafts in Newry, Northern Ireland, has begun making these masks during the COVID-19 pandemic, which are machine washable and have a space to insert an extra filter if needed.
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This article was originally published on May 6, 2020


Yesterday's signals were not triggered, as the bullish price action took place slightly below 0.9939.
Go short following a bearish price action reversal upon the next touch of 1.0008, 1.0035 or 1.0046.
Go long following a bullish price action reversal upon the next touch of 0.9933 or 0.9918.
I wrote yesterday that I had no directional bias generally, but I would be bullish if there was a strong reversal at either of the nearby support levels later, especially at the level of 0.9939. In fact, there was a strong bullish reversal just a few pips below that level, so the precision was wrong, but the general idea was right.
The U.S. Dollar is making a comeback to some extent, but this pair is outside the market's focus, and it may be hard for the price to break much further above the parity level, so there could be limited upside. The most likely scenario is that the price will range 0.9939 and 1.0008 over the short-term, so a short trade off a bearish reversal at resistance looks like being the best possible trade which might set up here. Beyond that, I have no directional bias here today.


Rumble / Natural Phenomena - Nature is always there to surprise us. Whenever we think of something as absolutely stunning it morphs it into something even more beautiful. This footage comes to us from the greenest parts of Brazil and it shows us the results of the fluctuations in the water levels of Rio da Prata. When it rains a lot, the Rio da Prata river runs of slower form, causing its damming, thus increasing the water level of the Olho D'Água river.
Despite the flood, on the day the video was recorded the waters of the Olho D'Agua river remained crystal clear due to their conserved riparian forest and being inside a Private Reserve of the Natural Patrimony - PRNP, a type of Conservation Unit.


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Naomi Osaka withdraws from French Open, citing her mental health
Naomi Osaka says she will be away from the courts for a while 1:33
(CNN) – Tennis star Naomi Osaka announced Monday that withdraws from the French Open after refusing to speak to the media at the Grand Slam.
The four-time Grand Slam winner posted a statement on Twitter saying she was retiring so that "everyone can get back to concentrating on the tennis that takes place in Paris," adding that "she would take time off the court."
Osaka revealed that she had "suffered long bouts of depression" since winning her first Grand Slam title in 2018.
Last Wednesday, citing mental health reasons, Osaka posted on social media that he would not participate in any press conferences during the French Open, hoping that any fines he incurred would go to a mental health charity.
Following her victory on Sunday, Osaka was fined $ 15,000 for failing to speak to the media, Roland Garros announced in a statement.
Naomi Osaka's message
"This is not a situation that I ever imagined or intended when I posted a few days ago," Osaka said in his statement.
"I think that now the best thing for the tournament, the other players and my well-being is that I retire so that everyone can get back to concentrating on the tennis that takes place in Paris.
"I never wanted to be a distraction and I accept that my moment was not ideal and my message could have been clearer. More importantly, I would never trivialize mental health or use the term lightly.
"The truth is that I have suffered long bouts of depression since the US Open in 2018 and it has been very difficult for me to deal with it.
"Anyone who knows me knows that I am an introvert, and anyone who has seen me at tournaments will notice that I often wear headphones as it helps to calm my social anxiety.
"Although the tennis press has always been kind to me (and I want to especially apologize to all the great journalists I may have hurt), I am not a public speaker by nature and feel great waves of anxiety before speaking to the media of the world.
"I get very nervous and find it stressful to always try to get involved and give the best answers I can. So here in Paris I was already feeling vulnerable and anxious, so I thought it best to take care of myself and skip press conferences.
"I announced it in a preventive way because I feel that the rules are quite out of date in some places and I wanted to highlight that. I wrote privately to the tournament apologizing and saying that I would be more than happy to speak to them after the tournament as the slams are intense.
"I'm going to take time off the pitch now, but when the time is right, I really want to work with the Tour to discuss the ways we can make things better for the players, the press and the fans."
Criticism of the French Open
Following its decision to exclude itself from media duties last week, the French Open was criticized for posting a tweet, which it has since deleted, with photos of Rafael Nadal, Kei Nishikori, Aryna Sabalenka and Coco Gauff participating in his duties with the media with the caption: "They got the job done."
Is Naomi Osaka the new queen of tennis? 1:42
Four-time Grand Slam doubles winner Rennae Stubbs tweeted: "This is a serious stain on Roland Garros and the FFT (French Tennis Federation).
I understand your attempt to deliver a message, but this doesn't look good. I mean these particular players are a great image for tennis, but making a player feel guilty and humiliating her is NOT a good image for a tennis player.
Gilles Moretton, president of the French Tennis Federation, said in a statement that the FFT was "sorry and sorry for Naomi Osaka."
«The result of Naomi's withdrawal from Roland-Garros is regrettable. We wish her the best and fastest recovery possible, and we look forward to having Naomi at our Tournament next year, "Moretton's statement read. "Like all Grand Slams, the WTA, the ATP and the ITF, we remain highly committed to the well-being of all athletes and to continually improving all aspects of the player experience at our Tournament, including the media. , as we have always strived to achieve. "
Tennis great Martina Navratilova tweeted about Osaka's decision on Monday.
"I really hope it's okay," Navratilova tweeted. "As athletes, we are taught to take care of our body, and perhaps the mental and emotional aspect is overlooked. This goes beyond offering a press conference or not.
The Roland Garros stance
After her victory over Romanian Patricia Maria Tig on Sunday, 23-year-old Osaka did not speak to the media, an action for which she was fined.
Roland Garros said it asked Osaka "to reconsider her position and tried unsuccessfully to talk to her to check on her well-being, understand the details of her problem and what could be done to fix it on the site."
"Following Naomi Osaka's lack of commitment, the Australian Open, Roland-Garros, Wimbledon and the US Open wrote to her jointly to check on her well-being and offer her support, underscore her commitment to the well-being of all athletes, and suggest a dialogue on the subject, "said the statement. "He was also reminded of his obligations, the consequences of not complying with them and that the rules should apply equally to all players."
Organizers said repeated violations could lead to harsher penalties, including suspension from the tournament.
The WTA tour issued a statement saying that mental health and awareness are one of the "highest priorities of the WTA."
"We are still here to support and assist Naomi in any way possible and we hope to see her back on the court soon," the WTA statement read.
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Have you ever watched little kids make friends? It blows me away with it's simplicity and straightforwardness. I'm learning from this kind of authenticity.
Life is full of beautiful moments, moments where the beauty is not in the image, but in the experience. Sometimes I let myself think that a moment must be documented to be real or precious. Not true.


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Home	Featured	Thriller in the desert: Santa Barbara holds off Palm Desert to advance to CIF semifinals
Thriller in the desert: Santa Barbara holds off Palm Desert to advance to CIF semifinals
by Mitchell White November 16, 2019 0 comment
Santa Barbara wide receiver Dakota Hill (1) triumphantly yells to his teammates after hauling in a key catch from quarterback Deacon Hill on 4th-and-11 with almost a minute left in the 4th quarter at Palm Desert High School on Friday, November 15, 2019.(Kenneth Song/News-Press)
PALM DESERT — The Golden Tornado live to fight another day.
The Santa Barbara High football team showed its toughness and resilience, coming away with a 42-32 victory over Palm Desert Friday night to advance to the quarterfinals of the CIF Southern Section Div. 8 playoffs.
Despite jumping out to an 18-point lead with under 10 minutes to play, Friday's victory was anything but easy. Ahead by three points and facing a 4th and 11 with 1:05 left, the Golden Tornado passed up a 41-yard field goal attempt and instead elected to go for it.
Deacon Hill dropped back, threw it into the end zone and into the arms of a leaping Dakota Hill to seal the victory.
"Our chemistry was perfect tonight," an exhausted Dakota Hill said after the win. "I don't think I dropped a ball. We had a great game tonight."
Dakota had a team-high seven receptions for 190 yards and 2 TDs, including the dagger that helped Santa Barbara advance.
"He came in his sophomore year when I was a freshman and that connection was just kind of there," said Deacon. "He was on the varsity and I was on the JV, but he still stayed after practice and we threw together. We've been working on that connection.
"It feels great to get this win," he added. "Especially that feeling of coming down to the wire, the game being close and pushing through with your brothers — that's the best part."
Hill played a very efficient game, completing 20 of his 26 pass attempts for 342 yards and 4 TDs.
Santa Barbara (10-2) had a field goal blocked on its first possession but bounced back to score on the next three offensive possessions. Hill connected with Moki Nacario for a 19-yard TD to open the scoring before throwing a beautiful pass down the Golden Tornado sideline, hitting Dakota in stride for a 61-yard score to make it 14-3.
Palm Desert wouldn't go quietly. Quarterback Zavier Hill-Kemp scored on a one-yard run to make it 14-10. Following a two-yard TD by Justin Perez, the Aztecs answered with a 38-yard TD pass from Hill-Kemp to Isaiah Durant, who was joined on the catch by Nacario in the end zone, to make it 21-17 at the half.
The Santa Barbara defense did a tremendous job slowing the Palm Desert rushing attack. Simon Gaete, who entered the game as the team's single-season rushing leader with 2,328 yards and 28 TDs, was limited to just 89 yards on 16 carries.
"That offense was a challenge, but the defense held up and we held our composure," said defensive end Joshua Rosales. "We made the stops when it counted."
The Golden Tornado defense forced the Aztecs to punt on their first two offensive possessions in the second half and the offense was able to capitalize.
Hill found Jackson Gonzales over the middle with under 5 minutes to play in the third quarter for a 16-yard score. Hill would add a rushing touchdown with 9:59 left in the game to make it 35-17.
Palm Desert didn't give in. Hill-Kemp's five-yard rushing touchdown with 5:25 left made it 35-24.
Palm Desert was able to get the ball back on an onside kick attempts on the ensuing kickoff. Although the ball never traveled 10 yards to allow the kicking team to recover, a Santa Barbara player touched the ball and the Aztecs hopped on it — even though Santa Barbara came away from the scrum with the football.
The final three minutes of Friday's game felt like an eternity.
With 2:49 left, the referees called for a video review to ensure the chains were aligned properly. Once the dust finally settled, the Aztecs had the ball at the Santa Barbara 2 yard line and scored one play later on a Gaete touchdown run. The 2-point conversion was successful to make it a three-point game.
Jackson Gonzales was able to recover the ensuing onside kick to give his team the ball back, and the Golden Tornado would not be denied.
Santa Barbara coach J.T. Stone, with sweat pouring down his face, was elated his team came out on the winning side.
"I was sweating every series," he admitted. "This is a playoff game and it could be the refs, it could be the weather, it could be your play — you just never know.
"I was definitely worried because it was a playoff atmosphere. Anything can happen, and it almost did."
Stone was impressed with his signal caller's performance from start to finish.
"We wanted to slow down the game and he did that — and he was efficient," he said. "He managed the game the way I wanted him to tonight and that was probably the most impressive performance because of that.
"He's been around the program for a very long time and he's been trained to be a quarterback," Stone added. "He's taken on that challenge to be the guy and he's just an ambassador for this program. He's awesome."
Hill has emerged as a leader for the Golden Tornado, not just because of his play between the white lines but because of his vocal leadership he has displayed throughout the season.
"I want to be that leader that the team needs," he said. "Nerves were there, but you've got to stay composed."
He said that the team took notice of the comments made by Palm Desert coach Shane McCombs leading up to Friday's matchup.
"Their coach mentioned something about us being smaller and that their DBs could cover our receivers, which they weren't really able to do tonight," he said. "I think that motivation just drove us into this game. We've been doubted this whole year and that just drove us."
Dakota, who was one of six receivers to record a reception in the win, said he has been impressed with the way Deacon has performed when the spotlight shines the brightest.
"Having somebody back there that you can rely on, who will hit you whenever you're open — it's what you need to win a championship," he said. "That's what we're going for."
The Golden Tornado will travel to Palmdale next week, as the Falcons beat Aliso Niguel 13-12.
"These kids believe," Stone said. "They believe mentally that they can make it and they believe in each other. That's all I can ask for. There's nothing special we were doing… it's just a lot of years and time. And they finally believe in it… the sky is the limit for this football team."
email: mwhite@newspress.com
Mitchell White
News-Press Staff Writer
Philadelphia-based classical ensemble Jasper String Quartet playing concert at Santa Barbara Museum of Art
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Santa falls victim to the Bah-Hum Bug virus and hackers leak his Naughty or Nice List. Will everyone get coal? Watch what happens when Santa, his son, and the North Pole elves team up to save the holidays in 3 great new ads created by Grey SF.
Slim Pictures Director Jason Headley brings Santa's worst nightmare to life in a three episode spot by Grey San Francisco for Norton security. The online ads chronicle Santa's reaction to a laptop infected with the "bah-humbug" virus that has taken his Naughty and Nice list for ransom. Headley began with Emma Brooke's sharply written script and infused his droll humor into the writing. Using a clever mix of comedy and frustration, the resulting campaign shows how even Santa can be pushed to his limit under a cyber attack to demonstrate that no one is safe from online security hacks this holiday season.
The first of the three episodes sends Santa into a panic when he discovers that his list is gone and even the police can't help him, leading Santa to begrudgingly call on his son for technological assistance. In the next episode, Headley draws out a humanization of Santa's emotions showing Kringle stress eating while his son reprimands him for not keeping his computer system up to date. Weaving in sly humor to explain the importance of laptop security, Claus Junior tells his unknowing dad, "In here, people aren't who they seem to be. It's like those guys who dress up like you at the mall." The final episode reveals a spiteful Santa insisting his elves prepare coal for stockings around the world in retribution, until his son convinces him that the spirit of giving should prevail, ultimately saving Christmas for one and all.


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[r65] House Republican Legislative Priorities Achieved (4/27/2013)
Start Date: 4/27/2013 Start Time: 12:00 AM
End Date: 4/27/2013 End Time: 11:59 PM
STATEHOUSE - Speaker of the Indiana House of Representatives, Brian C. Bosma (R-Indianapolis), announced the end of session, or Sine Die on Friday evening, closing out a year of priorities achieved. The House Republican agenda, which was released in October, centered on making Indiana a stronger state for future generations, by focusing on fiscal integrity, job growth, and enhanced education opportunities for every Hoosier.
"We determined that two ways we could have the highest ability to improve life for the next generation: high paying job opportunities and an education that prepares young people for the realities of today's workforce. I am proud to say that the work of the General Assembly has addressed these critical issues, and much more.
"Our state's budget also reflects our state's priorities. House Republicans have improved our state's fiscal picture by adopting a budget that lives within its means. Over the past decade or more, House Republicans have continually presented lean budgets. Because of this, we have been able to give taxpayers the largest tax cut in the history of Indiana, while meeting our investment objectives and maintaining our reserves, truly making our state the envy of the nation," said Speaker Bosma.
The House Republicans' "Own Your American Dream" plan focuses on three key concepts: financial security, matching Hoosier workers with high paying jobs, and making education investments.
Financial Security for Future Generations
Indiana is one of only nine states that has a AAA credit rating from all three credit agencies. Indiana holds a higher credit rating than the federal government, whose debt has now passed the $16 trillion mark for the first time in our nation's history. That equates to more than $50,000 of debt for every man, woman and child in the U.S.
"Last fall, we pledged that our focus would be on jobs, education and passing a budget that would require state government to live within its means," said Rep. Koch. "We kept our promise, and Indiana's economy will be stronger as a result."
According to the Indiana Vision 2025 report published by the Indiana Chamber of Commerce, more than 930,000 Hoosiers lack even the most basic skills to thrive in today's economy.
Designed to improve coordination, communication and vision for Indiana's workforce training and career preparation systems, the ICC is a panel that will bring the principal stakeholders in the state's workforce development efforts together to create a stronger plan to move Indiana forward. Members of the ICC will be charged with aligning the education skills and training provided by Indiana's educational, job skills and career training systems with the existing and projected needs of the state's job market. The legislation also puts into law a longitudinal data system to track the effectiveness of the state's educational and workforce programs.
Leaders in Classrooms; Leaders in Life
Currently, there are nearly two and a half STEM jobs for every one unemployed person in Indiana. Despite the economic downturn, these jobs have remained in demand, and will only increase as technology marches on. HEA 1001 creates a STEM Teacher Recruitment Fund and new stipend programs for teachers that are in high demand.
"A strong economy begins with a strong workforce," said Rep. Koch. "These initiatives recognize the life-long nature of learning."
In Indiana, 61 percent of children (ages 3-4) are not enrolled in a preschool program. Only six states have a higher percentage of children not attending a preschool. The budget creates a Pre-K Matching Program. School choice was also expanded for students with disabilities, special needs, and siblings. There is no longer a requirement for students in failing school districts.
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If you're reading this, you'll be familiar with the story that broke yesterday morning.
This is one of those posts I'd have preferred not have written: it's an unfathomable tragedy that any 42 year old family man should apparently chose to end his life in such a devastating manner. I didn't know Gary Speed, but I knew about him: he was one of the best Welsh players of his generation and looked as if he was about to oversee a long overdue revival of the fortunes of the Welsh national team.
The strange thing about Speed's death is that it comes within two weeks of German referee Babak Rafati attempting to commit suicide before the game between Mainz and Koln in the Bundesliga; last weekend Belgian linesman Chris Schelstraete apparently tried to emulate Herr Rafati. It's also just over two years since I wrote about German goalkeeper Robert Enke: this article – written by the Daily Telegraph's Sarah Crompton at the end of September is almost uncannily prescient about what happened this weekend and deserves to be read by a wider audience.
No doubt in the weeks and months to come we may find out more about the inner turmoil that Gary Speed went through on Saturday evening: but at the moment it's a sad ending to a life that was far too short. Our thoughts and sympathies are with his family and friends: he will be missed.
Gorwedd Mewn Hedd, Gary Speed.
Sad news: Macclesfield Town manager Keith Alexander passed away last night. Probably best known as being the first full time black manager in the Football League when he was appointed Lincoln City manager in 1993 after a relatively modest playing career, he died after returning home from Macclesfield's 1-0 defeat at Notts County last night.
The England team will be wearing black armbands tonight in his honour.
The death of former Birmingham City and England goalkeeper Gil Merrick was announced yesterday; he won 23 caps for England and played in the 1954 World Cup finals tournament, his final international appearance coming in the 4-2 quarter final defeat against Uruguay. Sporting a pencil moustache and slicked back hair during his playing days, he is probably best known as the 'keeper who played in the 6-3 and 7-1 defeats against Hungary at Wembley in 1953 and Budapest the following year although the margin of defeat wasn't his fault: at that time the Hungarians were playing football from another world.
Merrick was an old school one club man, making almost 500 appearances for the Blues between 1938 and 1960; the club renamed the Railway Stand after him at the beginning of this season.
Sad news from Germany this evening: goalkeeper Robert Enke of Hannover 96 and Germany committed suicide by diving under a train in the town of Neustadt am Rübenberge near Hannover. He was 32 years old, had won eight caps for Germany and would have been a strong contender for one of the goalkeeping positions in the German squad for the finals: he leaves behind a wife and an adopted eight month old daughter.
The first Saturday of August in England and it's raining; football weather. Normally this would be time to look forward to the new season but when the news broke yesterday that Sir Bobby Robson had passed away it was time to stop and reflect on what an outstanding career he had as a player, coach and manager not only in and for England but also abroad with some of the heavyweights of European club football; he always came across as being a good bloke and one of the last 'old school' football personalities too, something that came across yesterday in the many tributes that were paid to him. Perhaps fittingly, his last appearance at a football match was a few days before his death when he attended a friendly between the England 1990 and Germany 1990 sides for the Sir Bobby Robson Trophy (England 1990 won 3-2);  the image of Sir Bobby consoling Paul Gascoigne will always remain in the memories of England fans that are old enough to remember the events of the dramatic evening 4th July 1990.


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The Loreto program is for children in PreK through grade 4.
The Loreto program is for children in Grades PreK-4. The group meets monthly, usually on the first Sunday of the month. (There may be exceptions, please see the schedule for exact dates) The children will participate in 1.25 hours of religious education in the parish center, including, music, craft and lesson. The celebration of the Eucharist is central to our faith, so we Follow each gathering day with a children's Mass at 11am during which children will take on various ministry rolls as readers and gift bearers and greeter. Parents are asked to encourage participation by being collectors at this mass.
Those who are absolutely unable to attend, must complete the summer learning program at home with the family.
We run on a three year cycle of topics: Creed, Scripture and Church.
Please contact our Religious Education office at 508-234-6355 or email st.petersloreto@gmail.com if you would like to register or have any questions regarding our Loreto Program.


Become the next big Rockstar this Christmas with our Rocket Full Size Electric Guitar package. Being excellent value for money, it includes everything needed to start learning! Jam along to festive tunes on Christmas morning ! This guitar pack is also available in red. There's nothing better than that!
Know a budding piano player who is looking to get started? Why not provide them with this fantastic Yamaha keyboard! With a whole library of different instrument voices and backing styles, the fun is endless. The power adaptor and music rest comes in the box already, so literally, you can plug in and play as soon as it's unwrapped! This is a keyboard with lots to offer, at a very good price!! Learn some Christmas songs and get the whole family singing!
The guitar is one of the most popular instruments out there, and so this Jose Ferrer is perfect for any learner. Most importantly, it is nylon strung! The ¾ size is quite common for new players, as it is slightly smaller so you can hold it more comfortably! Supplied in a natural finish with rosewood fingerboard, this is a fantastic model!
We can't forget to mention our fabulous Forenza range of violins! Perfect for new string players, the Prima 2's feature solid ebony fingerboards, pegs, nuts and saddles. Not forgetting high quality strings with the all-important fine tuners! But wait, there's more! All the violins come with a protective, lightweight case as standard, along with the bow and rosin! Just tune up and play!
Are you looking to get a musical gift for a child in the family? This 3 piece drum kit is a gem of a Christmas present. Available in blue or red, the acoustic drum kit even comes with a drum throne and drum sticks, so they can get playing straight away! A great introduction to drumming.


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2014 SOLAIRE by PALOMINO with many options.
This trailer is a very nice family trailer. It sleeps 6 with lots of space from the pull out living room. Separate room with queen bed and TV set up for parents to take a break and relax. Also it has a very convenient bathroom with a toilet, sink, and stand up shower. Containing various kitchen appliances of a sink, microwave, stove, oven, refrigerator, and freezer.
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A rare set of prints by New Haven printer Amos Doolittle depicts the momentous events of April 19, 1775.
For approximately one hundred years, Connecticut's "Black Governors" were used by white authorities to help maintain order among the black population.
Israel Putnam served with distinction in the Seven Years' War and in the Revolutionary War, particularly at the Battle of Bunker Hill.
Moving troops and materiel over long distances during the Revolutionary War required accurate maps, most of which were in British hands, until French allies came to the rebelling colonists' aid.
An author of the Connecticut Compromise, Roger Sherman is also the only person to have signed all four of the most significant documents in our nation's early history.
Esteemed by his fellow patriots as a savvy diplomat who helped cement a strategic alliance with France during the American Revolution, Deane spent his final years under a cloud of suspicion.
On August 17, 1785, Connecticut's first governor, Jonathan Trumbull, died….
Settled in 1752, Stonington became a fishing, shipbuilding, whaling, and sealing center and survived attacks during both the Revolutionary War and the War of 1812.
The first Arbor Day was held on April 10, 1872, and became an international event 11 years later when Birdsley Northrup of Kent, Connecticut, introduced the concept to Japan.
Benedict Arnold of Norwich was one of the great Continental army heroes of the American Revolution before committing treason and joining the British army.
Thomas Knowlton is arguably Ashford's most widely recognized war hero….
Nancy Jackson, a Georgia-born slave living in Hartford, sued for her freedom in 1837. Her victory helped further the abolitionist cause in a state slowly moving toward outlawing slavery.
Residents of Hebron rescued local slaves Lowis and Cesar Peters, and their children, from South Carolina slave traders. After emancipation, the rescued family became farmers in town.
The White Pine Acts – Who Knew?
November 29, 2016 • Agriculture, Crime and Punishment, Hide Featured Image, Law, Middletown, Revolution and the New Nation, Revolutionary War, Who Knew?
The British government made it illegal for colonials to cut down white pine trees over 24 inches in diameter—preserving the trees for use as masts on British naval ships.
The Articles of Confederation loosely served as the nation's first formal governing document, until ultimately being replaced by the US Constitution.
The story of Mariann Wolcott and Ralph Earl captures much of the complexity the Revolutionary War brought to the lives and interactions of ordinary citizens.
Completed in the 1700s, "The First, Second and Last Scene of Mortality" is considered to be one of the most spectacular pieces of needlework in US history.
Connecticut's Cultural Treasures is a series of 50 five-minute film vignettes that profiles a variety of the state's most notable cultural resources.
Hannah Bunce Watson was one of the first female publishers in America. Her leadership helped the Hartford Courant) survive one of the most challenging times in its history.
September 6, 1781 was a brutal and terrifying day for Connecticut citizens living on both sides of New London harbor, along the Thames River.
How a farmer's son became the Father of Submarine Warfare during the American Revolution.
Despite an accomplished political career, this Derby-born gentleman of means is best remembered for introducing Merino sheep to North America.
Caleb Brewster used his knowledge of Long Island Sound to serve as a member of the Culper Spy Ring during the Revolutionary War.
Eventually taking the name the "Hartford Wits," some of the most influential figures of the 18th century got together to write poetry that documented the state of the times.
A school teacher hanged as a spy during the American Revolution, Nathan Hale became Connecticut's official state hero in 1985.
Loyalists in Connecticut, often acting on beliefs tied to relegion, proved particularly prominent in Fairfield County. Many of them fled to Canada rather than face imprisonment at New-Gate.
Oliver Wolcott served in military in the Seven Years' War and the American Revolution, but was also a popular member of the Continental Congress and governor of Connecticut.
A Remarkable Signature – Who Knew?
Public passions were stirred by reports of a "massacre" at Fort Griswold and its particulars remain a topic of debate to this day.
The Ebenezer Avery House – Who Knew?
September 6, 2013 • Architecture, Groton, Historic Preservation, Revolutionary War, War and Defense, Who Knew?
The first time this founding father traveled through Connecticut, he was an ambitious Virginia colonel hoping to advance his career in the British military. When he last visited Connecticut, he was the first president of the new United States.
Despite Deane's role in securing French supplies and support for the American Revolution, his accomplishments have long been obscured by whispers of treason, a spy's double-dealing, and his own sudden death.


My first job on Kingsman: The Golden Circle was to sketch out some ideas for the Statesmen. The mandate was to make them as nattily dressed as the Kingsmen, but in a "Southern Gentleman" style. As the parts hadn't been filled yet, I had the freedom to do my own fantasy casting.
This was my first pass at the character of Champagne, the role eventually played by Jeff Bridges in the movie. There was some early talk of casting Matthew McConaughey in the role, so I rendered in his likeness.
More Matthew McConaughey as Champagne. This one skewed too close to British.
Another variation on Champagne's outfit.
Another pass at Champagne, this time with the lasso ultimately used by Tequila. Originally it would have been a hollow braided steel tube that could flatten into something like razor wire to decapitate or slice victims in half.
An early pass on one of the Statesmen.
I thought Idris Elba would make a fantastic Statesman. Note the bulletproof weave in the inside of his jacket.


text:
Pushing back on back surgery: Insurers, and some physicians, are questioning the need for aggressive spinal surgery
August 9th, 10 - Star Tribune
Three years ago, Amy Leyden took her 10-year-old son, Luke, on a vacation to Oregon. Her back hasn't been the same since.
In a furious game of touch football, Leyden made a spectacular catch but landed flat on her back. That night, she slept on a friend's couch, and the next day, the fearless duo went on an ill-advised dune buggy ride on the Oregon coast.
Labels: Cancer, Carbohydrates, Depression, Diabetes, Drugs, Exercise, Low Back Pain, Neck Pain, Probiotic, Scoliosis, Surgery
5 toxics that are everywhere: Protect yourself
Is enough being done to protect us from chemicals that could harm us? Watch "Toxic America," a special two-night investigative report with Sanjay Gupta M.D., June 2 and 3 at 8 p.m. ET on CNN.
(CNN) -- A growing body of research is linking five chemicals -- among the most common in the world -- to a host of ailments, including cancer, sexual problems and behavioral issues.
We encounter them every day -- in plastic bottles, storage containers, food wrap, cans, cookware, appliances, carpets, shower curtains, clothes, personal care products, furniture, television sets, electronics, bedding, cushions and mattresses. In short, every room in almost every house in the United States is likely to contain at least one of these chemicals, many of which did not exist a century ago.
They are bisphenol A, or BPA; phthalates; PFOA; formaldehyde; and polybrominated diphenyl ethers, or PDBEs. Tests reveal most of us now carry them in our bodies, but are they putting our health -- and the health of our children -- in jeopardy?
Here's what you should know about:
BPA - Bisphenol A
What it does: BPA is a building block of a lightweight, clear, heat-resistant and almost unbreakable plastic called polycarbonate. It's also used in epoxy resins.
Where it's found: Water bottles, baby bottles, reusable food containers, plastic tableware, infant feeding cups, linings of infant formula cans and other cans, jar lids, CDs, electrical and electronic equipment, dental sealants.
How we're exposed: Eating food or drinking liquids stored in containers containing BPA. Infants and small children may also be exposed from hand to mouth contact with materials containing BPA. BPA also migrates from dental sealants into patients' mouths. Fetuses are exposed in the womb by their mothers. Almost everyone has been exposed. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found BPA in the urine of 93 percent of the people it tested.
Special Report: Toxic America
Health effects: The American Chemistry Council, an industry trade group, says exposure is so low there are no ill health effects. A new five-year Kaiser Permanente study of Chinese factory workers found higher BPA exposure linked to reduced male sexual function. This research joins a growing body of research on animals that suggests BPA poses a potential cancer risk and may mimic the female hormone estrogen and disrupt the extremely sensitive chemical signals in the body called the endocrine system. According to the Food and Drug Administration, these studies suggest BPA could affect "the brain, behavior and prostate gland in fetuses, infants and young children."
Regulation: BPA is an Environmental Protection Agency "chemical of concern," one of five substances the agency has targeted for increased scrutiny and potential new regulation. (The others are phthalates, short-chain chlorinated paraffins, PBDEs, and perfluorinated chemicals including PFOA.)
The Food and Drug Administration allows BPA in flexible food packaging.
What you can do to reduce exposure: Buy stainless steel bottles and glass food storage containers. If you buy plastic, check for the recycle number on the bottom. If there is a number 7, assume the container contains BPA unless it explicitly says otherwise. Switch to fresh or frozen vegetables instead of canned. Other precautions include not microwaving or putting hot liquids in BPA plastic containers and throwing away baby bottles and feeding cups that are scratched.
What they do: This family of chemicals softens plastics. They also are used to bind chemicals together.
Where they're found: Shampoos, conditioners, body sprays, hair sprays, perfumes, colognes, soap, nail polish, shower curtains, medical tubing, IV bags, vinyl flooring and wall coverings, food packaging and coatings on time-release pharmaceuticals.
How we're exposed: Absorbed into the body through personal care products, ingested in drugs, on food, in water and dust. Infants can be exposed through infant care products like baby shampoos, lotions and powders. Fetuses are exposed in the womb. Virtually everyone is exposed to phthalates.
Health effects: A new study by the Mount Sinai Center for Children's Environmental Health and Disease Prevention Research found a statistical association between prenatal exposure to phthalates and incidence of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder years later. Phthalates are considered endocrine disrupters, and studies have shown a statistical association between phthalate exposure and male sexual development. Research has also shown phthalates disrupt reproductive development of male laboratory animals.
Tell us: Is your town toxic?
Regulation: Phthalates are an EPA "chemical of concern." The FDA allows for plastic containing phthalate in flexible food packaging. The U.S. government last year banned or restricted six phthalates for use in children's toys and children's products.
What you can do to reduce exposure: Avoid shampoos, conditioners and other personal care products that list "fragrance" as an ingredient. These may contain phthalates. (Companies are not required to disclose the ingredients in their scents, and the industry says this phthalate is safe.) The federal government recently ended one source of exposure, banning the sale of toys containing any of six phthalates.
PFOA -- Perfluorooctanoic acid (also called C8)
What it does: PFOA is used to make Teflon and thousands of other nonstick and stain- and water-repellent products.
Where they're found: PFOA is present in Teflon and other nonstick or stain- and water-repellent coatings as a trace impurity. These coatings are used on cookware, waterproof breathable clothing, furniture and carpets and in a myriad of industrial applications. PFOA can also be produced by the breakdown of these products.
How we're exposed: Inhaling contaminated air, eating contaminated food and drinking contaminated water. Some researchers say nonstick pans give off PFOA vapors, which contaminate food.
Health effects: Almost everyone has PFOA in his or her blood. PFOA causes cancer and developmental problems in laboratory animals. The EPA concludes research on PFOA is "suggestive of carcinogenicity but not sufficient to assess human carcinogenic potential."
Regulation: PFOA is an EPA "chemical of concern."
What you can do to reduce exposure: The EPA does not recommend any steps to reduce exposure to PFOA. You can reduce potential exposure by using stainless steel or cast iron cookware. If you use nonstick cookware, do not overheat, which releases toxic gas.
How toxic is your air?
What it does: Formaldehyde is an ingredient in resins that act as a glue in the manufacture of pressed wood products.
Where it's found: Pressed wood products such as particle board, plywood, paneling and fiberboard; also, glues and adhesives and durable press fabrics like drapes.
How we're exposed: Breathing "off-gassing" from products containing formaldehyde. Car exhaust and cigarette smoke also contain formaldehyde.
Health effects: Formaldehyde is a known human carcinogen, causing cancers of the respiratory or gastrointestinal tract. Formaldehyde fumes can also cause nausea, skin irritation, watery eyes, or burning eyes, nose and throat.
What you can do to reduce exposure: Buying furniture free from formaldehyde eliminates much of the exposure we face from the chemical. One option to reduce "off-gassing": purchase "exterior grade" pressed-wood products, which emit formaldehyde at significantly lower rates. If you have wood products containing formaldehyde, increase ventilation, reduce humidity with air conditioning or dehumidifiers and keep your home cool.
PBDEs - Polybrominated diphenyl ethers
What they do: PBDEs are a group of chemicals used as flame retardants, meaning they reduce the chance of something catching fire and slow how fast it burns when it does catch fire.
Where they're found: PBDEs are found in televisions, computers and wire insulation, and furniture foam. Over time, televisions and other products shed PBDEs, which accumulate in dust. More than 124 million pounds of PBDEs are produced annually worldwide and they do not break down easily.
How we're exposed: Swallowing PBDE-contaminated dust and contact with this dust are the primary routes into our bodies, where they collect in fat tissue. We can also be exposed through food and water. Breast-feeding infants are exposed to PBDEs through their mother's milk and have the highest exposure compared to their body weight, followed by infants and toddlers, according to the data collected by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Levels in humans have been rising rapidly since PBDEs were introduced in the 1960s and '70s.
Health effects: PBDEs accumulate in the body. Toxicology tests show PDBEs may damage the liver and kidneys and affect the brain and behavior, according to the EPA.
Regulation: In December, the EPA named PBDEs "chemicals of concern."
What you can do to reduce exposure: Try to find products without PBDE flame retardants and be sure to sweep up dust.
Posted by CA at 10:56 am 1 comment: Links to this post
Obesity Rates Keep Rising, Troubling Health Officials
Americans are continuing to get fatter and fatter, with obesity rates reaching 30 percent or more in nine states last year, as opposed to only three states in 2007, health officials reported on Tuesday.
The increases mean that 2.4 million more people became obese from 2007 to 2009, bringing the total to 72.5 million, or 26.7 percent of the population. The numbers are part of a continuing and ominous trend.
But the rates are probably underestimates because they are based on a phone survey in which 400,000 participants were asked their weight and height instead of having it measured by someone else, and people have a notorious tendency to describe themselves as taller and lighter than they really are.
"Over the past several decades, obesity has increased faster than anyone could have imagined it would," said Dr. Thomas Frieden, the director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, which issued a report on the prevalence of obesity. Obesity rates have doubled in adults and tripled in children in recent decades, Dr. Frieden said.
If the numbers keep going up, he added, "more people will get sick and die from the complications of obesity, such as heart disease, stroke, diabetes and cancer."
The report estimates the medical costs of obesity to be as high as $147 billion a year, and notes that "past efforts and investments to prevent and control obesity have not been adequate."
Researchers blame the usual suspects: too little exercise and too much of the wrong kind of food, which means not enough fruits and vegetables and too many high-calorie meals full of sugar and fat, like French fries, soda and other sweet drinks. Children do not get enough exercise during the school day; Dr. Frieden noted that even in gym classes, students are active for only about a third of the time.
A 5-foot-4-inch woman is obese if she weighs 174 pounds, as is a 5-foot-10-inch man who weights 209 or more, according to the disease centers. Both would have a body-mass index, or BMI, of 30; that index is calculated from height and weight, and scores of 30 or over are defined as obese.
The nine states with obesity rates of 30 percent or more are Alabama, Arkansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, Oklahoma, Tennessee and West Virginia. The highest rate, 34.4 percent, was in Mississippi.
People over 50 had higher rates of obesity than those who were younger. The aging of the population may account for some of the general increase in obesity, but not all of it, said Dr. Heidi Blanck, chief of the disease centers' obesity branch of the division of nutrition, physical activity and obesity.
Non-Hispanic black women had the highest obesity rate, 41.9 percent. Over all, blacks and Hispanics were more likely than whites to be obese, and the more education people had, the less likely they were to be heavy.
Only Colorado and Washington, D.C., had obesity rates under 20 percent. Researchers are not sure why. Dr. William Dietz, director of the nutrition, physical activity and obesity division, said that Colorado had spent money from a state lottery on biking and walking trails and that many people were using them. The state seems to have "a culture of physical activity," he said.
Dr. Dietz said the relatively low prevalence of obesity in Washington was harder to explain, particularly because the area has a large black population.
He said one explanation may be that many residents ride the subway; studies have shown that compared with people who drive, those who use public transportation tend to be thinner because it involves more walking. In addition, Dr. Dietz said, there is evidence of above-average fruit and vegetable consumption, and higher rates of breast-feeding, both of which are linked to lower rates of obesity.
Junk food diet puts children at higher risk of allergies
Scientists compared youngsters from a rural African village who had diets rich in fibre with another group living in Florence in Italy and found a dramatic difference.
The African children had less obesity-linked bacteria and a greater abundance of fatty acids which protect against inflammation causing asthma, eczema and other allergic reactions.
The diet of the children living in the small village of Boulon in Burkina Faso was similar to that of people living in the modern Western world thousands of years ago, shortly after the birth of agriculture.
It consisted mainly of cereals, beans, nuts and vegetables.
But the Italian children ate higher quantities of meat, fat and sugar.
Only those who were still breast-feeding harboured bacteria resembling the African children's - indicating diet may dominate other factors such as ethnicity, sanitation, geography or climate, say the researchers.
The trillions of microbes that inhabit the human gut are considered an essential 'organ' that helps to digest food, protect against disease-causing bugs and limit inflammation.
Paediatrician Dr Paolo Lionetti, of Florence University, and colleagues said children in industrialised countries who eat low-fibre, high-sugar 'Western' diets may reduce microbial richness - potentially contributing to a rise in allergic and inflammatory diseases in the last half-century.
They said: "Western developed countries successfully controlled infectious diseases during the second half of the last century, by improving sanitation and using antibiotics and vaccines.
"At the same time, a rise in new diseases such as allergic, autoimmune disorders, and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) both in adults and in children has been observed, and it is hypothesized that improvements in hygiene together with decreased microbial exposure in childhood are considered responsible for this increase.
"The gastrointestinal microflora plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis of IBD and recent studies demonstrate obesity is associated with imbalance in the normal gut microbiota."
The researchers, whose findings are published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, added: "The lessons learned from the Burkina Faso children's microbiota prove the importance of sampling and preserving microbial biodiversity from regions where the effects of globalisation on diet are less profound.
"The worldwide diversity of the microbiome from ancient communities, where gastrointestinal infections can make the difference between life and death, represents a goldmine for studies aimed at elucidating the role of gut microbiota on the subtle balance between health and disease and for the development of novel probiotics."
Labels: Probiotic, Scoliosis
Arthritis patients 'may benefit from weight training'
A regular weight training regime may help treat rheumatoid arthritis, research suggests.
A study of 28 patients funded by Arthritis Research UK found those who pumped iron saw improvements in basic physical function, such as walking.
Researchers at Bangor and Gwynedd Hospital said such high intensity exercising could play a key role alongside drug treatment.
Experts said the exercise regime would not be appropriate for all patients.
RA is mainly a disease affecting the joints, but a less well known symptom is that it also severely reduces muscle mass and strength and this occurs even among patients whose disease is well managed.
Those with the condition are often given mild home exercises to do to stop their joints stiffening and becoming painful.
To test how effective the weight training was the researchers split the 28 participants into two groups, the Arthritis Care and Research journal reported.
One did regular weight training for 24 weeks, while the others did the less strenuous standard home exercise regimes.
They found physical function improved by between 20% to 30% in the group doing weight training. Strength also increased by nearly 120%.
The high intensity training was found to increase the levels of an insulin-like growth factor (1GF-1) and insulin-like growth binding protein 3 - both of which promote the growth of muscles, bone and cartilage.
Study leader Dr Andrew Lemmey said muscle loss was a major contribution to the disability associated with the condition.
"Lifting, carrying, walking, climbing stairs are impaired.
"It is logical that if you can restore muscle, that strength and consequently functional capacity will also be restored. And this is what we have found."
He said the patients, who were mainly women in their 50s and had the disease for up to a decade, had responded well.
"In fact, the improvements in function were so significant that following training these patients with established RA were performing as well as or better than healthy individuals of the same age and sex."
He said he would like to see this sort of high intensity treatment funded along with drug therapies, but said that a multi-centre trial would be needed before this could be agreed and that they had received no funding for this.
Benefits were thought to be lost four to eight months after training ended.
A spokesman for Arthritis Research UK said: "Weight-training, especially at this level, is not for everyone with rheumatoid arthritis, but for those who are very well-motivated and physically able, we have proved that it can dramatically improve muscle strength and tone."
A spokesman for the National Rheumatoid Arthritis Society agreed, but urged caution.
"Of course RA can affect different people in very different ways so pumping iron may not be appropriate for everyone. People should discuss [this] with their physio."
Labels: Exercise, Insulin, Low Back Pain, Neck Pain, Probiotic, Scoliosis, Surgery
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Obesity Rates Keep Rising, Troubling Health Offici...
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Arthritis patients 'may benefit from weight traini...


text:
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The above widget is running successfully w/o any Issue, but I want to add a functionality that there should be a check-box on the description. If the checkbox is ticked then only

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaStackExchange


This newspaper is published by The Shetland Times Ltd in Lerwick, Shetland, Scotland. It was digitised and first made available on the British Newspaper Archive in Apr 11, 2014 . The latest issues were added in Mar 13, 2018.


Thank you for your interest in employment with NauticStar Boat Company.
If you are interested in a position with NauticStar, please stop by our Human Resources Office at the South end of the plant located at 500 Waterway Drive, Amory, MS [Google Maps] Monday - Friday between the hours of 9 AM - 11 AM and 12:30 PM - 3 PM to apply. Please do not come to the front office.


For those who have tried nutella before, you know that it goes without saying that your fresh homemade batch will likely be disappearing overnight. First timers, prepare yourself to fall in love — and to find ways of putting this decadent spread on anything and everything possible. Of course that includes just a spoon too!
Britt B, the brilliant creatrix behind the plant-based blog The Banana Diaries, has made magic with this naturally sugar-free, Easy Vegan Nutella recipe. Not only is this indulgent treat super simple and quick to make, but it's perfect for almost everyone's dietary needs whether you're Gluten Free, Paleo, Vegan, or practicing the Whole30 Program.
By using Imlak'esh 100% Heirloom Cacao Powder, you're nourishing your body with a natural energy and mood boost, as well as, a bounty of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. And when all of those superfood benefits come in a rich, chocolatey form, what's not to love?!
Preheat oven to 350F and line hazelnuts on a baking sheet with tin foil.
Roast hazelnuts in the oven for about 6 minutes, or until aromatic.
Place into the food processor and pulse until it's crumbs.
Pause and add in the remaining ingredients.
Blend until a smooth and creamy butter, scraping down sides as needed.
Nutella is the perfect spread on top of toast, pancakes, or mixed into oatmeal. It's even great by the spoonful! Enjoy!
Imlak'esh Organics shares this with love and permission from The Banana Diaries.
All content & media rights reserved.


As we all know, there's a bit of a tan-craze sweeping the country. It seems everyone wants the deep-bronzed glow of a suntan, especially during the lead-up to the summer months when much more of our bodies tend to be on show – pasty vit-D deprived legs are not a great look on the beach! However, lying on the golden sand soaking up the rays to get that perfect airbrush tan look comes with huge health risks.
As most people are aware, the sun's rays contain harmful ultraviolet radiation that can ultimately lead to illnesses such as melanoma (skin cancer). There are two types of rays: UVA and UVB. UVA rays penetrate deeper into the skin than UVB rays and can reach all the way through the skin's protective layer to the dermis, where blood vessels and nerves are found. However UVB rays are also thought to be harmful, causing the skin to burn and increasing the risk of other types of skin cancer. Skin cancer affects around 50,000 people in Britain every year, even though it's relatively sun-free.
So the safest way to get that sun-bronzed glow is to opt for a fake tanning product, possibly using a spray tan method which ensures an even colour. There are no harmful rays and no risk of skin cancer (with the exception of sunbeds) – plus a perfect airbrush tan can be achieved in just a few hours! So there's no longer any need to sit like a lobster and burn on the beach. It's only recently that suntans have become fashionable and a sign of health and radiance. For centuries a suntan was undesirable, and a mark of a hard, manual labourer. Even in Elizabethan England, courtesans would paint their faces white to preserve their pale complexion. It was only during the 1940's when Coco Chanel was cruising abroad a yacht and developed a suntan that women's magazines started encouraging sun tanning, and the craze continued to develop from there. Unfortunately a clear link between sunshine and skin cancer didn't emerge until the 1990's.
What type of fake tans are available?
Many people still use sunbeds, even with the risk of skin cancer. Whereas the sun produces a mix of UVA and UVB radiation, sunbeds produce mainly UVA radiation (the type that penetrates deeper into your skin). Studies show that a sunbed can be even more dangerous than lying in the sun – it's estimated that 20 minutes on a sunbed can be equivalent to approximately four hours in the sun. Most people using sunbeds won't use suncream to protect themselves from the UV radiation either and so sunbeds are often associated with wrinkles and ageing of the skin.
To find out more about sunbeds and current laws regulating the industry, please see our sunbed safety page.
Often referred to as "tan in a bottle", self-tanners contain dihydroxyacetone (DHA) which gradually stains the dead cells in the skin's outer layer. It works by reacting with the keratin protein to produce a brown colouring on the skin. The tan will usually last a few days to a week – or until the dead cells fall off, so exfoliating will fade the tan faster.
There are many different shades of self-tans, and each brand will offer a slight variation, so it's best to try a few out to find one that's right for your particular skin tone. Self-tans are available as sprays, lotions and wipe-on towels and each will also provide a slightly different look, so again, test out what suits you best. Recently there have been some new 'moisturiser with a hint of fake tan' products available too – these give a subtle glow that grows with the more you use it. Just be sure to wash your hands after using self-tan or you'll end up with stained skin in between your fingers- and you'll just look dirty!
Professional beauty therapists will be trained to ensure a perfectly even, streak-free tan. Many beauticians use St Tropez for it's unique formulation; it gives a natural tan and can be custom blended to the desired colour. The tan can be airbrushed on (spray tan) or rubbed all over your body. Just a few hours after the application you should notice your new sun-bronzed glow. Most salons will allow you to pay for a half-body tan or a full body tan, so if you only want certain parts of your body tanned (e.g. your legs) then this should be possible with a spray tan or by rubbing in.
Obviously having a spray tan (airbrush tan) at a beauty salon will be more expensive than a self-tan (you're paying for the beauticians skills as well as the product) but if you're scared about turning yourself orange it may be best to opt for a professional!
The cost of a fake tan depends on the method that you choose. If you are brave enough to try a self tan at home, then you will generally pay less (between £3 - £30 depending on the product and amount) than opting for a professional to give you a fake tan. However, unless you know what you are doing and have tested your self tan product before, you could be in for a surprise at the results, as it is very easy to end up with streaks and patches, or a strange colour match for your skin.
A professional will be well trained in colour matching for different skin tones and application methods which will ensure a streak free even tan which looks a lot more realistic.
The price of a salon spray tan is usually between £25 - £55 and can depend on whether you have exfoliation included in the treatment or not. If not, it is best to make sure that you exfoliate your skin thoroughly yourself before getting your spray tan. The price may be slightly higher for a manual fake tan application as it is likely to take longer and include exfoliation.
Exfoliate before you self-tan to get a more even effect (if you opt for something like an airbrush tan at a tanning salon they will usually do this for you).
Don't wear deodorant, makeup, jewellery or other beauty products while applying your self tan, or before visiting a tanning salon for a fake tan.
Rub the product in quite hard (obviously don't hurt yourself!) but this usually gets rid of any large, obvious streaks, although this will depend on the product you opt for.
Wear baggy clothes and loose shoes (flip flops are perfect) after you've been covered in your tanning product to prevent it rubbing off.
Steer clear of water (no washing up!) until your tan has fully developed.
Always wear suncream when you have a fake tan - you will not be protected from the sun just because you have a fake tan!


Specification: Type: Point Material: Natural Citrine Crystal Shape: Column Color: Yellow Size: About 11cm Weight: About 100g Package included: 1X Point Note: We will deliver the goods at random, but we will choose the best one to send to you, thank you for your trust and understanding. Depending on the size of the palm and the Angle of shooting, there will be an error of size. Please see the details of the product weight. Thank you!


text:
Sunday, February 8, A.D. 2009
On the Christian Theology blog, Dante Tremayne expressed his frustration with Orthodox (non-) apologetics in "Can Eastern Orthodox prove they're the One True Church?." His basic complaint is that Orthodox arguments appear to be circular and that they all rest on the Orthodox claim to be the Church of Christ:
Therefore, what they say is the truth, is the truth. There is no higher authority or objective standard to which they appeal. Thus, when the church says that they are the True Church, it's true, because they are the Final Authority, and they are the Final Authority because they are the True Church. This is a rather obvious tautological statement, and completely meaningless.
I attempted to respond with the following lengthy comment on his entry:
Dear Dante,
I am sorry to hear that you have found nothing but unhelpful and circular statements from Orthodox quarters. This doesn't help, but let me say that the above statements do make some sense once you see the Orthodox perspective.
The basic Orthodox claim is similar to that of Rome: the Orthodox Church is the Body of Christ, spread throughout the Roman empire and beyond by the apostles, and nourished by the Holy Spirit throughout the ages. For the Orthodox, there is no sudden change—no apostasy, no turbulent switch—in Christian history. From Paul to Justin to John Chrysostom to John of Damascus to Gregory Palamas to today, there is a public continuous Christian community that lives in the light of Christ's resurrection. Rome claims the same. Protestant communities, as you mention, also claim as much, but rather dishonestly.
How should we judge these competing claims? Well, we can look for continuity. It is not enough to find some sort of precedence—we must find a general and consistent acceptance of doctrines throughout the Christian era. If you do this, you will see that the Protestant confessions are aberrations in Christian history. It is true that Luther and Calvin found their inspiration in Saint Augustine of Hippo, but his peculiar views were quite singular, and they were rejected by the Western Churches for a thousand years after his death, despite his being the greatest Church Father who wrote in Latin. In the East, Augustine's quirky theological speculations never influenced anyone. All of the great teachers in Christian history had their individual doctrinal musings. Favorite sons of the Orthodox Church Gregory of Nyssa and Gregory of Nazianzus also had peculiar ideas. However, such views were simply their own and did not reflect the general consensus of the faith as inherited through the centuries from the apostles. As such, they were considered the private opinions of wise and holy men—but they were not doctrine. The East had an advantage in this, as most early Fathers were Greek speaking and writing—there was no lack of witnesses writing in Greek from any era of the apostolic faith. No one person and his theological idiosyncrasies could substitute for the general catholic faith that everyone held.
It is a common Orthodox contention that most Western errors resulted from this lack of patristic diversity in the West. As the Empire in the West crumbled, fewer people knew Greek, and the knowledge of the early Church was lost in a way that never happened in the Greek East. Moreover, with the onset of the Dark Ages and fewer educated folks in the West, the place of Augustine and the few Western Fathers held an inappropriate influence over the West. Furthermore, the bishop of Rome was forced to take on secular responsibilities as civil authority either crumbled or was taken over by heretical Arians. Over centuries, this aggrandizement of power perverted Rome—from the Orthodox perspective—and made it more about princely power than about guarding the ancient faith for the salvation of souls.
Therefore, the Orthodox acknowledge that Rome has ancient roots, but they hold that historical circumstances facilitated Rome's slow departure from the apostolic faith. Rome also acknowledges its changes, but it argues that such changes were divinely ordained. To weigh the two, you should consider the relative arguments. However, I think that the burden of proof must rest on Rome, which changed and gathered great power by those changes. Did the papacy transform into a super-episcopacy due to the will of God or due to the self-interest of power hungry men?
The Roman position puts so much stock in the power and infallibility of the papacy because it then allows Rome to justify all other changes. To any question, "Why did the Roman Church change from the ancient practice to another?," Rome can simply answer "Because the Holy Spirit works through the magesterium of the papacy and directs the Church through Christ's vicar on earth, the pope." In one stroke, Roman Catholicism self-justifies.
The Orthodox reject such papal authority and rest with the ancient apostolic and patristic consensus. Obviously, new questions always arise, and new answers must develop to address them. Yet, the Orthodox position is that these new answers are based in the consistent unchanged "phronema"—the mind set—of the Church. Roman theologians often accuse the Orthodox of being stuck in the past, but for the Orthodox, God's truth isn't constrained by time. The Word of God is eternal.
The "truth is a person" bit that you mention is not an excuse not to engage intellectually, though many Western Christians initially think that of Orthodox Christians. Rather, it is a typical Orthodox response to what they see as the hyper-rationalization of divine matters. For the Orthodox, theology is not an academic exercise; it is not an engagement with abstract concepts but rather an engagement with the living God. Out of pastoral reasons, Orthodox priests try to steer Western inquirers to consider their faith more like a life lived—in a relationship of love—than one of propositions to which one assents. Westerners often misunderstand this move, since their prior experience with such responses usually comes from the post-modern, post-doctrinal, post-Christian factions of their own religious tradition: "Only the closet atheists say such things." Thus, they dismiss Orthodoxy as wishy-washy feel good mystical gobbly gook nonsense.
Concerning scripture, the Orthodox rightly treasure the Bible, but they do not see it as something separate from the rest of their heritage from God. The legacy of Abraham, the law of Moses, the prophets, the apostles, the first Christian communities, the martyrs, the great theologians of the early Church, the great councils, the wisdom of the desert monks, the hymnography, the liturgical riches, and the poetry of the Church—these are all aspects of the Christian life, lived in the community of Christ's gospel. You may hear such and interpret it as denigrating the scriptures, whereas the Orthodox are, from their perspective, putting the Bible in its greater context. The Bible isn't a document without a home; its home is the Church, where it was written, where it has been kept, and where it has been taught for two thousand years.
So, with apostolic succession, scriptural interpretation, and doctrinal positions, the Orthodox can point to any century in the past and state that Christians held the same beliefs then. They do not see the Fathers as distant authorities—Orthodox Christians are not ecclesial archaeologists digging around in dusty cathedral basements—but rather the Orthodox see the Fathers as familiar pastors and teachers. For this reason, the Orthodox do not have the same crisis of faith that many Westerners have when it comes to learning the great upheavals in Church history. The Arian controversy is touted as evidence against the Trinity by some Protestants and apostate Christians, whereas the Orthodox remember it in the way that our parents remember Vietnam . . . it's a family memory. They know that Arius was wrong, and they know why he was so successful for so long. The intricacies of the conflict are not arcane matters but stories that one knows because they defined a significant moment in one's personal past—and often such moments are painful and complicated.
This is not to say that Orthodoxy doesn't have problems. Rather, it is to admit that the problem with Orthodoxy is Orthodox Christians, whereas the problem with Protestantism is Protestantism. Anything connected with fallen man will be tainted and disappointing. Nonetheless, God has given us a path, and it is available to all.
My presentation of an Orthodox defense is highly unorthodox in that it is overtly intellectual. The more immediate Orthodox response to an inquirer of Orthodox claims would be an invitation to see if you find sanctity and spiritual nourishment in the Church. For it is easier to trick the intellect of most people than to deceive their hearts.
I, myself, don't find the historical arguments ultimately fulfilling. Sure, they might show that the Orthodox Church has more in continuity with the earliest Christians, but it does not establish that the earliest Christians were right. Why follow Jesus at all? For me, Orthodoxy makes the world make sense; it provides better answers to my questions than any other system. But that is my own path.
However, each person comes to God in a unique manner. I wish you the best in your search.
The comment obviously does not do justice to the historical complexity of Christian history. I have "been there and done that" with endless arguments over papal claims, replete with innumerable patristic references, scriptural commentary, conciliar minutes, and canon law case precedents in cross-diocesan judicial appeals. My basic opinion, sufficient for the present purpose, is that one can build a case for papal supremacy by employing extraordinary circumstances as normative ones. During all the Christological controversies, some bishops played ruthless politics for the sake of the faith while others did so for personal power. A pious bishop in exile often sought assistance wherever he could, and canonically questionable actions were taken and justified by the higher goal of defending the faith from heresy. Rome was usually a haven of sanity during these disputes; early Western Christians were not as a theologically interested, philosophically educated, or politically connected as their Greek brethren in the East. Hence, the Roman Church was blessedly boring while the major theological controversies raged across the Empire. It was often necessary, then, for orthodox hierarchs to seek Rome's interference in ways that defied common practice. Papal supremacists see their justification therein. The will needs very little evidence to claim the inviolable correctness of its desires . . .
Nonetheless, the normal position of ecumenical Church government was decentralized and conciliar. Such is the Orthodox ideal to this day, though it has taken many forms, with the autocephalous system's being the current organization. At any rate, the subject has become a moot point. Rome largely abandoned its orthodoxy centuries ago, and whatever primacy the bishop of Rome should have had has become an anachronism. Petrine fundamentalism aside, the Churches' deference to Rome rested as much on the Roman Christian community's sobriety and fidelity as on Rome's status as the old capital, on its being a major center of power, communication, commerce, transportation, and ideas, and on its giving the world countless martyrs, especially Saints Peter and Paul. When Rome forsook its faith, it forfeited its special honor.
Posted by Joseph on Sunday, February 8, Anno Domini 2009
Religion | Orthodoxy • Patristics • Ecumenism • Protestantism • Roman Catholicism • Comments
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