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Take a Peek!
The Perfect Sinner
AuthorTakako Hashimoto Penny Jordan
PublisherHarlequin
Max, a lawyer, approached and seduced Maddy purely because she was the daughter of a major player in the legal world. After they got married, Max was constantly unfaithful, piling up scandal after scandal with other women, and now he's disappeared. Deeply wounded by her husband's horrible treatment of her, Maddy begins a new job and tries to move forward with her life. Just as her new life is taking shape, Max appears before her again-now calm and gentle, as though he were a different person entirely...
(c)TAKAKO HASHIMOTO/PENNY JORDAN
GO TO ITEM
An Expert Teacher
AuthorTomoko Takakura Penny Jordan
Why is Luke O'Rourke at her brother's wedding? Ten years ago, Luke was a manual laborer and Gemma a fifteen-year-old girl unloved by her parents. Luke was the first friend Gemma had ever been able to confide in. But she ruined their friendship when she asked him to teach her how to kiss. They haven't seen each other since. Now Luke is the CEO of an architectural firm and Gemma is relieved that he's happy to see her. But while he acts like a sophisticated gentleman, Luke is secretly planning to make Gemma his mistress...
(c)TOMOKO TAKAKURA/PENNY JORDAN
Capable of Feeling
AuthorMisao Hoshiai Penny Jordan
Dull John Philip. That's Sophie's boss. He may be a genius, but he still needs secretary Sophie to take care of almost everything for him. When he was given custody of his nieces after his brother's death, he asked her to marry him so she could help him provide their care. A bewildered Sophie accepts, partly because he's the only male she believes she can count on. Now that Sophie is taking care of the kids and living in his luxurious mansion, though, she's detected a persistent fluttering in her heart!
(c)MISAO HOSHIAI/PENNY JORDAN
The Perfect Match?
AuthorSoraha Himura Penny Jordan
Chrissie visits the town of Haslewich to sort through her deceased uncle's belongings. Given her uncle's reputation as the town troublemaker, many residents view Chrissie with contempt by association. Things change when she goes to an antique store and meets the owner, Guy Cooke. He's kind and attractive, and before they know it, they are drawn to each other. However, when rumors about a gang of thieves begin to circulate around town, they threaten to tear the couple apart. Can Chrissie and Guy's relationship survive the gossip?
(c)SORAHA HIMURA/PENNY JORDAN
Man of Stone
AuthorKazuko Fujita Penny Jordan
Sara's parents have just passed away. Now, saddled with a large amount of debt, she must sell everything she owns in order to pay it off. With no place left to go, Sara and her sickly brother, Tom, turn to their grandmother, Alice, for help. Alice welcomes them warmly, but Luke, who was once married to Alice's other granddaughter, distrusts Sara. He believes that she is after Alice's fortune, so he decides to marry Sara as punishment. Sara, who is drawn to Luke, reluctantly accepts the marriage, hoping that one day Luke will feel the same way she does.
(c)KAZUKO FUJITA/FRANCES RODING
Some Sort of Spell
AuthorMasami Shinohara Penny Jordan
When her parents passed away six years ago, Beatrice gave up on her dreams to raise her brothers and sisters. Not only is she self-conscious about her appearance, but her family treats her like a servant. One night, while helping her sister with a party, she reunites with Elliot Chalmers, who tells her the painful truth-she isn't being treated right. She tries to argue with him. She just can't stand being around the man. If only she knew how Elliot really feels and that he and only wants what's best for her.
(c)MASAMI SHINOHARA/FRANCES RODING
A Different Dream
The Belair family's acting skills are famous worldwide, but Lucilla Belair has a problem. She thought it would only be natural for her to pick a career in acting, since she grew up in Hollywood, but she's lost one audition after another. Panicking, she decides she'll go to any length to get the role of her dreams, so she breaks into the hotel room of a famous director! But the man she meets there isn't the director at all...Lucilla wants to run away, but she's too intrigued by this stranger. It's as if he can see right through her...
Gentle Deception
AuthorMio Natsuki Penny Jordan
After Rosy's great-aunt's death, she stays with her distant relative. But she has to go to Oxford because of a misunderstanding that she's in love with her second cousin. There, she meets a professor in a wheelchair who hires her as his assistant after knowing that she's unemployed. His kind stare and calm voice relaxes her, and she tells him her innermost secrets. That's when he presents her the most surprising idea: "I'll pretend to be your boyfriend so that they know it's a misunderstanding that you're in love with your second cousin. Why don't we live together to make us look more credible?"
(c)MIO NATSUKI/FRANCES RODING
Too Wise to Wed? The Bride's Bouquet III
AuthorMaoko Nagasaki Penny Jordan
Star was raised in a difficult home and understood from a young age that love doesn't exist in this world. She scorns men, and makes sure that she doesn't get involved with anyone. One day, she goes to her friend's wedding reception. There, she meets an unbearably handsome man who offers her his philosophy on love. He says, "I refuse to have sex without an emotional connection." That makes Star only want to expose the true nature of this man named Kyle. She rashly lays a trap for him. However, with a surprise kiss, she is weakened and he shatters her pride with a single phrase...
(c)MAOKO NAGASAKI/PENNY JORDAN
Best Man to Wed? The Bride's Bouquet II
Poppy had been in love with Chris for a very long time, but today was the day he married another woman. Not only was she at his wedding, she'd caught the bouquet! She wanted nothing more that to disappear from sight. Later while weeping and burning photos of Chris, his brother, James, showed up. Chris and James could hardly be more different. James was an arrogant and difficult CEO. Still, he helped her burn the rest of the pictures and then he took her into his arms!
Woman to Wed? The Bride's Bouquet I
The bridal bouquet flies into the air and three women catch it at the same time. Those three women have each declared that they will never marry. Claire's husband passed away two years ago and she lives a life far from love and remarriage. She doesn't believe in the old wives' tales about bouquets. But one day Claire's sister-in-law, Irene, asks Claire if her husband's boss can stay at her place. The instant she sees Brad, Claire is shocked...he's the same man who dared to kiss her in the park that very morning!
A Law Unto Himself
AuthorNanami Akino Penny Jordan
As the granddaughter of a duke, Francesca is expected to proceed with an arranged marriage. But right before her wedding day, her fiance abandons her! Unable to handle the pity and inquisitive stares of those around her, she leaves Venice and heads to England where she meets an arrogant novelist named Oliver. He shows up at her welcome party and overwhelms her with gray eyes the color of ice. Despite a horrible first impression, Francesca and Oliver end up working together on his upcoming novel... Could their working relationship become something more?
(c)NANAMI AKINO/PENNY HALSALL
The Caged Tiger
AuthorSae Nanahoshi Penny Jordan
When she learned he'd only pretended to love her, Davina left her husband, Ruy, a noble Spaniard, and took her newborn son with her. Apparently she was just a substitute for the woman Ruy truly loved. Three years later, however, she received a letter from him saying he wanted to raise his heir. Why would he contact her after three years? Why now? Baffled, Davina went back to Spain to see Ruy, and he had the audacity to demand that she devote herself to taking care of him to atone for the sin of having left him three years earlier!
(c)SAE NANAHOSHI/PENNY JORDAN
Starting Over The Perfect Family
Unable to let go of her hatred for her father, Olivia instead directs her negative feelings toward her husband, Caspar, and insists on a divorce. Caspar thus sets off on a motorcycle journey across America, hoping he can ultimately reconcile with his wife. Olivia returns home to England along with her daughters and finds the life of a single mother challenging. She has hardly anyone to turn to, as the rest of the Crighton family have their own lives to attend to. Just when Olivia thinks all is lost, she is unexpectedly reunited with her father, who wants to make amends with his family. Can she really let this man back into her life? Could doing so heal her marriage?
The Marriage Resolution Sweet Revenge Seduction IV
AuthorJET Penny Jordan
Until recently Dee had always been close with her friends, laughing and enjoying life. She's watched as they've become wives and then mothers. She's an industrious businesswoman, free from the restraints and shackles of married life. There have been some things that she couldn't achieve, but she intends to live her life to the fullest nevertheless. Then, in an instant, the heartbreak she thought she had buried forever reemerges. While visiting her former teacher's house, Dee runs into the man she first gave her body and heart to, the one she was once wildly in love with-Hugo!
(c)JET/PENNY JORDAN
Stranger from the Past
AuthorMasako Ogimaru Penny Jordan
Ten years ago, Sybilla's childhood friend Gareth, who was a few years older than she, cruelly shattered her heart, and now he's returned home from America following his grandfather's death. All those years ago Gareth said he found Sybilla's affection annoying, and those words carved a deep wound in Sybilla's heart that still hurts her to this day. But now he's grown even more handsome than he was before, and the feelings she thought she'd buried deep down are desperate to make themselves known. She knows it's stupid, and she knows she'll just end up getting hurt, but it seems her heart won't be denied.
(c)MASAKO OGIMARU/PENNY JORDAN
Permission to Love
AuthorKakuko Shinozaki Penny Jordan
Lindsey first met her stepbrother when she was ten years old. Lucas was seventeen and handsome, and after her real mother died, he treated her very kindly. Before she knew it, Lindsey started to think of Lucas quite fondly. However, after the sudden death of their parents, the two of them were left alone. Lucas, once kind and loving, grew cold and reserved, as if he'd become another person. Worse, he was pressuring her to get married. Why was he trying to push her away?
(c)KAKUKO SHINOZAKI/PENNY JORDAN
Bride at Bellfield Mill
AuthorRieko Hamada Penny Jordan
With a baby in her arms, Marian finally arrives at Bellfield Hall. There are terrible rumors about the master of the mansion, Heywood Denshaw. They say that, as the despot of the town, he snatched the manor and the mill away from the person who was supposed to inherit them. When she finally arrives, the master and housekeeper come out together. Marian is captivated by his eyes-they're as cold as the winter sky. Yet Marian must somehow get him to give her a job!
(c)RIEKO HAMADA/PENNY JORDAN
AuthorJunko Okada Penny Jordan
Autumn, who works at a travel agency in the Caribbean, is speechless when she sees the man who's suddenly appeared before her-Yorke Laing. He's president of an airline company and the man Autumn married when she was just nineteen years old. But what he really wanted back then was a purely physical relationship without love... Their relationship was short-lived and Autumn left their London home. So what in the world is he doing at her agency? Yorke coldly informs the confused Autumn that he needs an emergency wife. He says that if she comes back for just four months, he'll allow her to officially divorce him.
(c)JUNKO OKADA/PENNY JORDAN
A Treacherous Seduction Sweet Revenge Seduction III
Beth runs a porcelain and crystal shop with her best friend in a town that still holds vestiges of the Middle Ages. She was cruelly betrayed by a man who was only after her money, and her heart was torn to pieces. So she embarks on a trip to Prague, a city she's always dreamed of visiting, after her best friend suggests it might help heal her heart. And while she's there, she can always purchase some new products for the shop. Handsome Alex calls out to Beth when she's unable to find a translator, but she's leery about trusting him. He must be trying to take advantage of a woman traveling alone. It doesn't help that he's whispering sweet nothings the moment they meet-this man is definitely dangerous!
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redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


text:
Mesquite High School se poate referi la una din următoarele două școli,

Două instituții de învățământ

 Mesquite High School (Mesquite, Texas) - școală secundară din localitatea Mesquite, statul Texas și
 Mesquite High School (Gilbert, Arizona) - liceu din orașul Gilbert, statul Arizona.

A se vedea și

 Mesquite (dezambiguizare) și
 Mezquita (dezambiguizare)

Denumiri de școli secundare și licee
Dezambiguizare

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaWikipedia


text:
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redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaGithub


text:
What Is the Life Expectancy of a Pygmy African Hedgehog?
By Jasey Kelly
Donna Day/Photodisc/Getty Images
The African pygmy hedgehog (Atelerix albiventris) is sometimes also referred to as the four-toed hedgehog. This African native prefers the arid, desert conditions found in southern Africa, but is a common species in the pet trade despite its natural preference for the desert biome. These small hedgehogs average just more than 21 ounces in weight and about 7 to 9 inches long when fully relaxed. Their life span can depend on a number of factors and varies greatly in captivity and the wild.
The small, oval African pygmy hedgehogs can live approximately a decade in captivity, although their lives are often much shorter, lasting only four to six years. In the wild, their relatively short lives are often dabbled with multiple matings -- these small guys will breed once or twice per year given the proper climatic conditions.
University of Michigan Animal Diversity Web: Atelerix Albiventris
With a professional background in gardening, landscapes, pests and natural ecosystems, Jasey Kelly has been sharing her knowledge through writing since 2009 and has served as an expert writer in these fields. Kelly's background also includes childcare, and animal rescue and care.
How Long Is the Life of a Horned Toad Lizard?
Life Span of a Rainbow Lorikeet
Scorpion Gestation
Classifications of the Cicada Killer Wasp
How Often Do Female Guinea Pigs Go in Season?
For How Long Do Lovebirds Live?
The Proper Climate for an African Grey
Turtledove Life Expectancy
How Do You Keep the Cattle's Water Trough Clean?
How to Tell Whether a Galician Crayfish Is Female or Male
How Long Do Frilled Lizards Live in Captivity?
For How Long Does a Swan Live?
Life Span of Flying Foxes
How to Tell the Gender of a Serpae Tetra
How to Tell if a Jewel Cichlid Is a Male or a Female
How to Tell the Difference Between Cougar & Bobcat Prints
The Population of Timber Wolves in the United States
Can You Tell the Sex of an African Dwarf Frog?
What Is a King Cobra's Predator?
Wildlife and Exotic Animals »


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text:
ОШ "Свети Сава" Велики Црљени, насељеном месту на територији градске општине Лазаревац основана је 1905. године.

Поред деце из Великих Црљени у школу иду деца из месних заједница Соколово, Сумеђ и Цветовац као и ученици из избегличког насеља у Каленићу.

Референце

Спољашње везе

Свети Сава
Свети Сава
Свети Сава


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Meeting The King.
A little mystery, draws a great deal of human intrigue, so they say. One campaign centered on 'Meeting the King', stood as a testament to this as it caught the attention of many, throwing social media into a limbo. 'Are you ready to meet the king?' was the question that headlined. And, 'Who is this king?' was the thought that followed, pondering immensely.
SlapDee —Photo credit; Focus Media.
As if the suspense of the vague campaign tagline wasn't enough to keep everyone glued. Highly acclaimed Zambian hip-hop artist SlapDee, known as The King of Zed hip-hop, had a public show of indifference towards the 'new King' in town. In what we now know to have been PR in it's absolute brilliance. The hip-hop artist, whose names are Mwila Musonda, took social media on a belligerent ride against the supposed 'King' leading up to it's unveiling.
Thursday night, the 2nd of August, the 'King' was finally unveiled. And 'Budweiser' was his name, or rather; it's name. Budweiser is an American lager/beer, that has been in existence for well over a century. It has grown to become one of the largest selling beers in the United States and is available in over 80 markets worldwide — earning it's right to be called The King. To top it off, the American alcoholic beverage was the official sponsor of the just-ended 2018 FIFA World Cup held in Russia.
Budweiser Beer, was unveiled by Zambian Breweries during an exclusive launch that took place at Latitude 15 hotel — the other side. Courtesy of PR Girl Media, a public relations firm by sister duo ; Chishimba and Monde Nyambe. Who exclusively invited multiple A-listers — Lifestyle bloggers, models, musicians and many more prominent personalities were all in attendance. And for the king of hip-hop SlapDee, the jig was finally up when he was named ambassador of the newly introduced beer by Zambian Breweries Country Director; Jose Moran. In a show of gratitude, he subsequently took to social media saying;
"Ladies and gentlemen I am proud to announce my new partnership deal with Budweiser — The King of Beers. Grateful for this and looking forward to a great royal journey." ~ SlapDee
Jose Moron & SlapDee
Budweiser, is now being brewed for the first time in Africa, at the AB InBev brewery — it's official manufacturer, in South Africa. And Zambian Breweries, as stated by Jose Moran, could not be happier to have introduced the world class beverage to the nation.
"As Zambian Breweries, we want to offer our consumers quality and prestigious global brands which will expand our current portfolio while also indulging the passion of beer connoisseurs in the country." ~ Jose Moron
The official public launch of the premium beer by prominent events company; R&G, is set to take place this month, the 25th of August. And is expected to host hundreds of locals, all eager to meet the King.
Monde & Chishimba Nyambe + Jose Moron


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Technology Coaching
A Leader's Toolkit: Cognitive Coaching
February 13, 2015 February 13, 2015 by Steven Hopper
I love the toolkit metaphor. It goes something like this: To be a leader you need a wide variety of tools and strategies at your disposal. Sometimes the situation calls for a screwdriver. Other times, a wrench. In a pinch, even duct tape may suffice. Leadership is the ability to know what tool to use, how it works, and when to use it.
But which piece of equipment in our metaphorical toolkit provides the best return on investment. I love a good hammer. I can do a lot [of damage] with a hammer. Unfortunately, it's not a very versatile tool. It doesn't necessarily convey a message of we're in this together. On the contrary, it says, I'm about to hit you over the head with my ideas.
For this reason, I'm better off as a leader if I can always fall back on some type of multi-tool. I may have found it in the art of coaching, specifically Cognitive Coaching as originally developed by Costa and Garmston. My district has embraced this approach for both our instructional coaches and many of our administrators. I'm starting to think of it as the Swiss Army knife in my toolkit, so to launch what I hope becomes a series of many posts, let's take a closer look.
The Tool: Cognitive Coaching
What is it? "The mission of Cognitive Coaching is to produce self-directed persons with the cognitive capacity for excellence both independently and as members of a community." Sounds like the perfect school staff, right? In a nutshell, it's a way of supporting others that allows them to reach their full potential while also contributing to the holonomy of the entire system. I still struggle with some of the pie-in-the-sky idealism conveyed by the developers, but given the right circumstances, I think it may actually be possible to achieve their mission. When the strategy fails, it's typically because some of the underlying factors — namely, trust — are absent from the system.
How does it work? The ultimate goal of a Cognitive Coach is to adopt an identity as a mediator of thinking. It's based on the premise that I can use observable data, rapport, and skillful questioning to improve your thinking processes. The developers call these the Five States of Mind: consciousness, craftsmanship, efficacy, flexibility, and interdependence. If I am successful in helping you think through these five states, you can move from your current state to your desired state, but it will also benefit the system as a whole. In many respects, it reminds me of a Socrative dialogue or Descartes' theory of innate ideas: the coachee is assumed to already know the solution, they just need some help in getting there.
It's worth noting that the individual leading our training was quick to distinguish Cognitive Coaching from manipulation (even though she can coach so incredibly well that I call her a "mind ninja".) Manipulation is about getting you to my desired states because I know what's best. Advertisers and campaign managers are phenomenal manipulators, but you wouldn't want them to mediate your thinking because they have their own agenda.
When to use it? Costa and Garmston would argue that coaching should be a leader's default role any time they're supporting staff. However, they also recognize three other support functions: collaborating (when two people interact in a more balanced way), consulting (when the coachee needs the specific expertise of the Cognitive Coach), and evaluating (when the coach also serves as the evaluator). I think coaching for building administrators is probably the most difficult. Evaluation brings a power dynamic into play in which it may be necessary to "pull rank" in order for the system to function at peak capacity. I still tend to default to the consultant role because many of the requests that cross my desk seek my specific expertise as a technology integrationist. Think of these other support functions as different tools in the leader's toolkit. We may be able to fix a problem with our Swiss Army knife, but sometimes it's just easier to pull out that hammer.
Image Credit: Swiss Army by Jim Pennuci via Flickr
Leaders Toolkit, Leadership Issues, Technology Coaching, Uncategorized	Leave a comment
From the Inbox: What are your thoughts on…
February 5, 2015 by Steven Hopper
From an Associate Principal:
What are your thoughts on Product X? I'm familiar with the free version, but I'm guessing there is a paid platform as well. Do you know anything about the costs involved? Perhaps we could talk with Ms. J to get an idea on how she is using it.
Dear Mr. Associate Principal,
I'm not terribly familiar with Product X. It falls into a category of video formative assessment that could be used to facilitate flipped learning. (Their marketing team has done a phenomenal job of using some of the latest education buzz words.) Other contenders in the field are sites like FlashyEdTechTool.com and YetAnotherFlashyEdTechTool.com. Regardless of the product, my advice would be to consider three questions:
What would "full adoption" look like in your building (or what level of adoption would you be satisfied with)?
What kind of professional development would need to happen in order to achieve that level of adoption?
Cost?
I am certainly available to meet with your leadership team to hash out answers to questions #1 and #2. Truth is, if we can't answer those, #3 is a moot point. We should also encourage Ms. J to share what she's doing with her PLC in order to gauge their interest. If it exists, we can definitely arrange an online demonstration.
A few final thoughts. Tech purchases in our district do not require my approval or endorsement, so the fact that you even asked for my opinion means a lot. Please encourage your colleagues to do the same. I'm certainly not an "expert" in all areas, but I have a clear vision for technology integration and am always willing to share. We are better positioned to move forward systemically when I'm invited into these types of conversations as early as possible in the decision-making process. Thank you for the email.
From the Inbox, Leadership Issues, Technology Coaching, Technology Planning	Leave a comment
"I Don't Do Social Media."
January 8, 2015 January 17, 2015 by Steven Hopper
Ask anyone who advocates for the effective use of technology in schools if they have a story about a teacher or administrator who simply refuses to participate in social media. We all do, and it's a shame. Our unconnected educators wear their status like a badge of honor. They know that their students, their families, and their community are using it; yet still they refuse. No digital footprint means a good digital footprint, right?
I've listened as some of my colleagues vilify these holdouts as failing educators, stuck in a 20th century mindset when it comes to teaching and learning. It's a valid criticism, one that's probably true in some cases. More often I find that they're simply misinformed, scared, over-burdened, or under-trained. They're not bad educators because they don't tweet, but it's my responsibility to show how social media can help them do their job better.
Need to update your dinosaur unit with some fresh ideas? Let's search Pinterest for "dinosaur unit", and we'll grab a few ideas before the students get back from lunch.
Need to recruit a bigger pool of job applicants? I'd recommend we post our career fair on Facebook, and within 24 hours, I bet it's shared more than two dozen times.
Need to know what students are really saying about us? Gather the counseling team, and we'll search Twitter for the name our school. It might be a little traumatizing, but we can use the results to show why teaching digital citizenship is so important.
The internet abounds with similar examples of why teachers should be using social media, but I can't fulfill my role as a technology coach with a Top 10 list. I can't browbeat my reluctant educators into submission or mandate their adoption practices. My job is to paint a realistic picture of what's possible when they connect online. I don't expect change overnight, and some may need an ongoing intensive intervention to be successful. But if nothing else, I want to hear them say, "I don't do social media…but I'm willing to try."
Image Credit: "blind" by Gioia De Antoniis via Flickr.
Technology Coaching	better, coaching, social media, twitter	Leave a comment
About Steven Hopper
I intend to become a better leader, a better thinker, and a better father. This blog is intended to document my attempts, most of which will probably backfire in spectacular fashion.
Tweets by @thinkteach


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Social Media Manager November 16, 2015
Images posted on Facebook show John Gallagher's coffin being carried through the streets of Syria wrapped in a Canadian flag and the flag of the Kurdish YPG guerillas.
The Nov. 4 death of John Gallagher in Syria has once again sparked the debate as to the status of Canadian volunteers fighting in foreign conflicts.
At the time of his death, Gallagher was serving alongside Kurdish peshmerga militiamen, fighting to oust ISIS fighters from the Syrian village of Al-Hasakeh.
While the 32-year-old Gallagher had served a three-year basic engagement in the Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry (PPCLI), he had returned to civilian life in 2005.
It was his personal ambition to sell off his worldly possessions and make the dangerous trek into Iraq and Syria in order to combat what he described as the "evil theocracy" of ISIS. That adventure began last May, when Gallagher arrived in northern Iraq.
After fighting with Iraqi Kurdish peshmerga for a couple of months, Gallagher then moved into Syria to join the People's Protection Units — a.k.a. the YPG Kurdish separatist forces. Along the way, the Toronto-born political science graduate realized that he was not just fighting against ISIS, but that he was now fighting for the notion of an independent Kurdish state.
Following his death, there was a number of media stories lionizing Gallagher for his courage and self-sacrifice. Some politicians went so far as to recommend that he be granted the full repatriation honours that were afforded to the 158 Canadian soldiers who died serving our country in Afghanistan.
To be fair, the most vocal of these voices was Ontario provincial MPP Randy Hillier, whose own son Dillon (also a former soldier with the PPCLI) volunteered to fight with the Kurds against ISIS. Unlike Gallagher, Dillon thankfully returned home to Canada unscathed last January.
The argument Hillier used is that Canada is officially at war against ISIS and that, by volunteering to fight this same enemy on his own, Gallagher's death should merit the same formal recognition.
I cannot agree.
As noble and heroic as Gallagher's actions may have been, the fact is that at the time of his death, he was not fighting for Canada. He was not sent to the Middle East by the Canadian government.
He went out on his own to put his life on the line for Kurdistan. If, one day down the road, there is indeed an independent state, then I truly hope Kurdistan will build a monument to the foreign volunteers such as Gallagher who died fighting for their cause. If that transpires, then Gallagher's family and friends can take pride in the fact that his death was not in vain.
However, at the moment, while Canada may be bombing ISIS targets and using our Special Operations Regiment to help train Kurdish fighters in northern Iraq, there is nothing in our stated foreign policy that supports the establishment of an independent Kurdistan.
The northern Iraq provinces are de facto autonomous, but all official Canadian correspondence still references it as the Iraqi Kurdish regional government. The reason for this is that Kurdish separatists are not only actively destabilizing the Rojava region in Syria, they are also increasingly active in eastern Turkey.
Where Gallagher was killed, the Kurdish Workers Party (a.k.a. the PKK) have been waging a violent separatist insurgency against Turkish security forces for the past three decades. By 2003, the insurrection had practically been quelled in Turkey, but the U.S. invasion of neighbouring Iraq and the toppling of Saddam Hussein relit the flames of the Kurdish independence.
The PKK remains listed as a terrorist organization by Canada, the U.S. and the European Union, and of course Turkey is a vital NATO ally. In addition to the PKK, the Kurdish independence movement also includes the likes of the al-Qaida Kurdish Battalion, which has declared itself an enemy of ISIS.
In other words, as noble as Gallagher's intentions may have been, some of the goals he was fighting for were not in line with Canada and our allies, and some of the people he was fighting in alliance with would be considered dubious at best.
It is not Canada's place to honour Gallagher's sacrifice. It is that of the Kurds. He gave his life for their cause, defending them.
Let's preserve the distinction of national mourning for those brave sons and daughters who have fallen while in uniform in the service of Canada.
Tags Gallagher, ISIS, Kurdish Peshmerga, PKK, Syria


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Idaho student murders: Pennsylvania arrest for murder of 4 University of Idaho students, sources say
An arrest has been made in connection with brutal murders of four University of Idaho students, law enforcement sources and an attorney for one of the victims' families told CBS News on Friday. Law enforcement sources have identified the person of interest as 28-year-old Bryan Christopher Kohberger.
A law enforcement source told CBS News that Washington State University graduate Kohberger is expected to be charged with four homicides and will be extradited to Idaho to face the charges. A student with this name is listed on the university's website as a Ph.D. student in the Department of Criminal Justice and Criminology at the school's campus in Pullman, Washington. Pullman is about 15 minutes from Moscow, Idaho.
Shanon Gray, the attorney for Kaylee Goncalves' family, said the arrest was made in Pennsylvania. A law enforcement source told CBS News he was taken into custody at his parents' home in Albrightsville, Pa., between Allentown and Scranton.
News of the arrest came more than six weeks after roommates Goncalves, Madison Mogen and Xana Kernodle were found stabbed to death in their home with fellow student Ethan Chapin.
Police are planning a news conference at 1 p.m. local time, 4 p.m. ET, to provide an update on the investigation.
The four victims were found around noon on Sunday, November 13, after a 911 call to police reported one person unconscious. Officials previously described the murder weapon as a large, fixed-blade knife.
Mogen and Goncalves were both 21-year-old seniors in college and best friends. The pair had been to a downtown bar called The Corner Club that night and stopped at a food truck.
Kernodle, 20, was a junior and was dating freshman Ethan Chapin, 20. The two had attended a party earlier at the campus house of Sigma Chi, of which Chapin was a member.
A flyer asks the public for information as police investigate the stabbing deaths of four University of Idaho students in Moscow, Idaho.
LINDSEY WASSON / REUTERS
During the investigation, police said they collected more than 16,500 pieces of information related to the murders, as well as reviewed more than 113 physical evidence from the home, "approximately 4,000 photographs" and "several" 3D scans which investigators from the crime scene took and had conducted "more than 250 interviews". They initially seized three dumpsters and five cars from the crime scene, but announced earlier this month that they would begin returning some of the victims' belongings to their families.
"We have a lot of information, and we are specifically keeping that information secure. We are not releasing specific details because we don't want to jeopardize this investigation," Moscow police captain Roger Lanier said last week. "We owe it to the families and we owe it to the victims. We want more than just an arrest. We want a conviction."
At first, police said they did not believe a surviving roommate or the friends who called 911 were involved in the murders. They also said they cleared one other person, a former sixth roommate who had left the house at the start of the school year, and a few other people who had met some of the students the night before, such as the person driving Goncalves. and Mogen at home late in the evening.
Rumors and speculations swirled over the case, circulating online via social media and ICT Tacwhich law enforcement called a "huge distraction."
"Tracking down rumors and stifling rumors about specific individuals or specific events that may or may not have happened is a huge distraction for investigators and is often the result of social media spreading. And that's very, very frustrating for investigators and difficult to stay on track," Lanier said last week.
Pat Milton of CBS News contributed reporting.
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Phillies use 5 home runs to take a 2-1 lead over Astros
Kaylee Goncalves, murdered student in Idaho, died in the same bed as her best friend, her father says
Obama struggles to control MI crowd after Heckler interrupts his speech


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No Jail for Marijuana in 2019?
There are new laws coming this year. I do think that in this new year, the new DA has stated that he's gonna work with law enforcement agencies to make it so that if someone is charged or found to be in possession of marijuana, at a small level.
Hey guys, Trey Porter here. Happy New Year, everybody. 2019's gonna bring a lot of changes. At the criminal justice level here in Bexar County, here in San Antonio, there are gonna be a lot of changes as it relates to what happens in the courtroom, what happens with crime and punishment. We have a number of new judges that are brand new that have just taken the bench. It's gonna be interesting to see what their temperament is like. Some judges have been judges before. Many of them have not been. So, it's going to be a wait and see kind of thing.
New District Attorney
We also have a new district attorney here in town. His name is Joe Gonzales. He is a Democrat. He's expressed that he's going to be rolling out a number of new programs and initiatives with a focus on restorative justice. One of the things that he spoke about at length during the campaign was a cite and release program. Now we already have some version of this cite and release program here in Bexar County, although DA Gonzales has talked about expanding it. Now this will mean that number of different low-level misdemeanor offenses will now be able to, a person charged with them will be able to be cited and then released, rather than arrested, taken into custody, and forced to go through the nightmare process that is magistration here in Bexar County. So that's a cost-effective and efficient thing which is good, both for the individual, but it's also good for us taxpayers because hopefully it will save us money and streamline things. What does that mean for someone who is committing, or charged with committing, one of these low-level offenses? Well right now, we don't have an exhaustive list.
But one of the offenses that I expect to be on that list is possession of marijuana. I do think that in this new year, the new DA has stated that he's gonna work with law enforcement agencies to make it so that if someone is charged or found to be in possession of marijuana, at a small level. We're talking probably between zero to four ounces, that covers the misdemeanor range of marijuana. That if they don't have a criminal record or if they qualify in other ways, that they'll be able to be cited and then released. So one, that's a good thing.
But, two, it's important to note that that doesn't change the possible punishment range. So, a lot of people have a relaxed feeling about marijuana, because it's legal in so many states and areas now in our country. Unfortunately, here in Texas, it is as illegal as it has ever been. So if you're found with up to two ounces, you could go to jail for six months. If you're found with up to four ounces, you could be facing one year in jail. There are probation and fines and fees and classes involved in all of those things as an alternative as well. So, it's important to note, that if you are in possession of marijuana if you do find yourself charged with that, nothing has changed yet.
So take it very seriously, it's important to get an attorney who knows the ropes on those types of cases. If you are charged with that or know someone who has been, don't hesitate to reach out to me. I'll be happy to give you as much good advice as I can about what to do. And if you'd like to hire me to get in there and try to knock the case out for you, work towards a dismissal, or something else that will work for your record and your situation, then I'll be happy to do that.
So like I said, we're gonna have a lot of changes hopefully this year with the way things are done. You can check back here to see how those changes materialize. But here, at the beginning of the year, not a whole lot has changed. So I want to wish everybody out there a happy and healthy New Year and I hope this is your best year. Check back here for some of the changes and we'll talk then. Thank you.
Marijuana Laws in San Antonio
Marijuana is illegal in Texas. It shouldn't be. Recently, however, large Texas cities like Dallas, Austin, and Houston have…
DWI Charges
Jail Felony


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DONATE/PAYMENT
Living Hope's School of Fine Arts offers instrument, vocal & art lessons from a staff of talented, trained artists and musicians.
KATHY BORCHELT
Education: Associate of Arts in Art and English Literature from Concordia University, MI; Bachelor of Science in Elementary and Early Childhood Education from Concordia University NE; Continuing Education from the University of South Florida
Experience and Expertise: Over 25 years of teaching experience in early childhood and elementary private, parochial and public schools in LA, FL and GA; developed and implemented art in Pre-K through 8th Grade programs, taught summer student arts camps, served as Assistant Director and Instructor for Alliance for the Arts and Recreation Consultant in FL; Art Instructor for Lutheran Social Services of GA after school program; private art teacher
Specialty: Drawing and acrylic painting; helping children and adults develop a desire to create, explore and appreciate God's amazing world through the visual arts
CARLOS DIAZ
Education: Associate of Fine Arts - Music from Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College; Continuing education in Bachelor of Music Performance with a concentration in drumset jazz studies at Kennesaw State University.
Experience and Expertise: Tift County High School drumline camp technician for two years; 10+ years church worship band experience on drum set and guitar across Georgia; 2+ years professional jazz drum set experience; Played in opening bands for artists such as Felipe Pelaez, Omar Gelez, Nelson Arrieta, and Orquesta Adolescentes; Currently playing congas for El Kartel de Atlanta and Orquesta Macuba at Loca Luna in Midtown, Atlanta.
Speciality: Commercial, Jazz, and Worship drum set work; Afro Cuban hand percussion for salsa bands; Auxiliary percussion instruments for accompanying singer song writers and small musical ensembles. Fluent in Spanish and English.
PAUL HEDMAN
Suzuki Violin
Education: Bachelor of Music from the University of Southern Mississippi, home of the largest and most respected music departments in the Southeast
Experience and Expertise: Completed teacher training in all ten volumes of the Suzuki curriculum as well as numerous supplemental courses under the auspices of the Suzuki Association of the Americas
Teaching Experience: Private Suzuki violin teacher in the Atlanta area since 1983; many of his students obtain positions of leadership in their school orchestras, in youth symphonies all over metro Atlanta, and have been admitted to university music programs
ROBERT HERRINGTON
Education: Bachelor of Jazz Performance from Kennesaw State University
Experience: Over 10 years of experience teaching and performing various guitar styles. Composed for independent films and media projects. Developed engaging jazz lecture series informing audiences of great American jazz composers and style periods. Currently directs and performs with the RH Group and RH Trio in the greater metro-Atlanta area.
Specialty: Electric & Acoustic Guitar, Jazz, Blues, Music History Education, Arranging & Composition
ROBERT MICELI
Keyboard, Piano, Tenor Sax
Education: Teacher's Assistant at Bailey School of Music under Huu Mai, Artist-in-Residence in Piano at Kennesaw State University
Experience: Over 10 years of piano training; Jazz Ensemble experience; Experience in marching band and band ensemble
Specialty: Keyboard, Piano and Tenor Sax
SUSAN O'BRIEN
Keyboard, Piano
Education: Bachelor of Music in Music Education from Kennesaw State University
Experience: Over 20 years of teaching one-on-one piano lessons. Over 5 years of teaching classroom music in private schools. Over 20 years of performing music in different churches.
Specialty: Piano and Keyboard
BRIAN REID
Jazz, Keyboard, Piano, Trombone
Education: Bachelor of Jazz Performance with a Concentration in Piano from Kennesaw State University
Experience: 10+ years teaching piano and jazz improvisation to all ages and skill levels. 13+ years experience performing jazz, pop, blues, rock, classical, and other styles.
Specialty: Piano Pedagogy for various styles, Jazz Improvisation and Theory, Classical Music Theory, Arranging and Composition. Lessons geared towards each individual student's needs with an emphasis on a deeper understanding of Music and the interconnections between different styles.
JUSTIN ROGERS
Acoustic, Bass & Electric Guitar
Experience and Expertise: Justin picked up his first stringed instrument in the 6th grade, and by age 14, he was serving his church's worship team on both guitar and bass –and has continued to serve in worship ministry ever since. 22 years later, he has also enjoyed many opportunities to write, record and perform music spanning many genres and environments. Justin recognizes the honor and privilege to have worked with well-known worship artists, platinum songwriters, Nashville artists, The Voice television show contestants and finalists, and many good friends along his musical journey!
Justin currently serves as the Worship Director at Living Hope Church, alongside his wife, Melissa.
Specialty: Helping you to understand the essentials of your favorite music on acoustic guitar, electric guitar, or bass guitar. To teach you the ability to play songs, to accompany yourself, and even to play with others! We will do this by developing the skills, theory, and the "ear" you need to grow your musical ability!
MELISSA ROGERS
Beginner Voice & Songwriting
Experience: 20 + years experience in vocal performance. 15 + years experience worship leading. 3 years classical and choral training. Received additional vocal training with Jan Smith Studios. Recording experience with various artists, including Third Day.
Expertise: Worship Leading. Vocal Care. Classical Voice.
Specialty: Songwriting. Recording Performance. Stage Presence/Performance. Expanding vocal range. Safe singing.
For more information or to schedule a lesson, contact Director Joy Schubert!
Join us in Worship each Sunday morning at 9:30 a.m. & 11:00 a.m.
Living Hope's staff holds varied office hours throughout the week. Please click here for emails of each of our staff members for questions or to make an appointment.
WEEKLY OFFICE HOURS
3450 Stilesboro Road
office@livinghopega.com
© 2021 Living Hope Church


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After Secret Document Unveiled Highlighting Kavanaugh's Views on Roe v. Wade, Murray and Senate Democrats Join Women to Emphasize Stakes of Supreme Court Fight for Women's Health and Rights
Senators and advocates shared personal stories about the impact of Roe v. Wade and the stakes of Judge Kavanaugh's Supreme Court nomination
Murray: "Women and men across the country are sharing these deeply personal stories because they want to be sure there is no question about what's at stake here. Women's rights are at stake. Women's health is at stake. Women's economic security is at stake. And women's lives are at stake."
Murray: "… to be very clear, Judge Kavanaugh personally highlighted that precedent can be overturned. And he was literally counting the number of Judges who stand ready to overturn Roe v. Wade. Well, it was three then, it's four now, and with Judge Kavanaugh on the bench, Roe v. Wade would be overturned."
Newly released document shows Judge Kavanaugh questioning whether Roe v. Wade is considered "settled law" and noting Supreme Court could overturn it
Kavanaugh: "I am not sure that all legal scholars refer to Roe as the settled law of the land at the Supreme Court level since Court can always overrule its precedent, and three current Justices on the Court would do so."
**WATCH SENATOR MURRAY'S REMARKS HERE**
Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Senator Tina Smith (D-MN), and Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) held a press conference with women from across the country to share stories of women that highlight the importance of access to safe, legal abortion and the stakes for women and families across the country as the Senate considers Judge Kavanaugh's nomination to the Supreme Court. The conference comes on the heels of a newly released document which shows Judge Kavanaugh questioning whether Roe v. Wade is considered settled law, and noting the possibility that the Supreme Court can overturn the decision.
"Women and men across the country are sharing these deeply personal stories because they want to be sure there is no question about what's at stake here. Women's rights are at stake. Women's health is at stake. Women's economic security is at stake. And women's lives are at stake," said Senator Murray.
Speaking about the newly released documents and what they reveal about Judge Kavanaugh's record, Senator Murray said, "Judge Kavanaugh has been pretending that he wouldn't overturn Roe v. Wade by hiding behind the idea that it's 'settled law' and 'precedent' … but this new document confirms our worst fears." She continued, "So to be very clear, Judge Kavanaugh personally highlighted that precedent can be overturned. And he was literally counting the number of Judges who stand ready to overturn Roe v. Wade. Well, it was three then, it's four now, and with Judge Kavanaugh on the bench, Roe v. Wade would be overturned. We knew it before—but this new document absolutely confirms it—and women everywhere should be very concerned. And it leads to another question on the minds of so many of us: what else are they hiding? What else is in those documents we haven't been allowed to see?
Watch Senator Murray's remarks HERE:
Full text of Senator Murray's remarks below:
"Thank you to all the organizations who helped set this up, and especially to all the women who are joining us today to speak out and tell their own story about what the right to safe, legal abortion has meant for them.
"Today, Senate Republicans are continuing their mad dash to try to confirm a judge to the Supreme Court who would roll back women's rights. A judge who was vetted by far-right groups, and nominated by President Trump to keep his campaign promise to overturn Roe v. Wade.
"We aren't about to let this country forget what it was like in the dark days when women didn't have the right to make their own decisions about their own bodies. Which is why we are standing up, speaking out, and sharing stories about what the right to safe, legal abortion has meant for so many people.
"Like many women and men across the country, I remember life before Roe. When I was in college, a close friend of mine went on a date. She was raped, and she got pregnant. She didn't know where she could turn for a safe abortion, and she didn't know if she could afford one. Instead, she ended up getting a botched procedure which left her unable to bear children.
"I saw my friend hurt, frightened, alone, and unable to get the care she needed because someone else's beliefs mattered more under our laws than her health and her future. That impacted me a lot, and has stayed with me to this day. And her story is one of many.
"I've heard from women and men across the country sharing their own stories. Stories from before Roe from women who had to seek out back-alley abortion. Women who received poor care and faced botched procedure. Women who ended up unable to have children. Women who died.
"And I've also heard stories from after Roe v. Wade. Stories like those of the many women who shared the difficult decision to end a pregnancy due to medical complications. Or who sought out an abortion after being raped. Or the woman who shared her decision to seek an abortion as she separated from an abusive partner.
"And the many women who felt it wasn't the right time for them to have a child for any number of reasons, whether they were focused on pursuing their education, focused on furthering their career, or focused on caring for their family and doing what's best for them.
"Like the single mother of two who wrote to me about her decision to get an abortion shortly after she managed to move her family out of a homeless shelter. And like the brave women here today, who will speak in a moment to share their own personal stories.
"Women and men across the country are sharing these deeply personal stories because they want to be sure there is no question about what's at stake here.
"Women's rights are at stake. Women's health is at stake. Women's economic security is at stake. And women's lives are at stake.
"We know why President Trump nominated Judge Kavanaugh. We know why far-right groups are cheering his nomination. We know why extreme Republicans are rushing as fast as they can to try and get him confirmed. They are dead set on locking in a fifth vote to the Supreme Court to overturn Roe v. Wade. But we are not about to stand aside and let them roll back women's rights.
"We will not be still. We will not be silent. We will not go back. We will stand up. We will speak out. And we will share our stories, lift up the stories of others, and make it absolutely clear how much is at stake for families across the country in this Supreme Court fight.
"I'm so grateful to the women gathered here for their courage in sharing their stories. And I'm going to keep fighting with them and with women around the country to make sure we don't let this country move backwards on women's rights.
"Before I close, I want to comment on a new document that had been sealed by Republicans—but just came out.
"Judge Kavanaugh has been pretending that he wouldn't overturn Roe v. Wade by hiding behind the idea that it's 'settled law' and 'precedent.'
"That's what he has been saying in his hearings so far, and he's hoping that will fool women across the country into thinking their rights and freedoms are safe.
"Well, we know that's not true. A ruling, even one as important as Roe, is settled law and precedent only until someone like Judge Kavanaugh and four other ideological justices on the Supreme Court come along to overturn it.
"But this new document confirms our worst fears.
"In 2003, when Judge Kavanaugh was working in the White House, he received an e-mail containing a draft op-ed defending President Bush's court nominees, which said 'it is widely understood accepted by legal scholars across the board that Roe v. Wade and its progeny are the settled law of the land.'
"When Judge Kavanaugh saw this—he objected. He didn't think that was true!
"He wrote back—and I quote: 'I am not sure that all legal scholars refer to Roe as the settled law of the land at the Supreme Court level since Court can always overrule its precedent, and three current Justices on the Court would do so.'
"So to be very clear, Judge Kavanaugh personally highlighted that precedent can be overturned. And he was literally counting the number of Judges who stand ready to overturn Roe v. Wade. Well, it was three then, it's four now, and with Judge Kavanaugh on the bench, Roe v. Wade would be overturned.
"We knew it before—but this new document absolutely confirms it—and women everywhere should be very concerned.
"And it leads to another question on the minds of so many of us: what else are they hiding? What else is in those documents we haven't been allowed to see?"


History was made at Commencement May 9, 2015 when Potomac State College of WVU introduced its own Academic Mace to open and close commencement ceremonies. In addition to symbolizing authority and scholarship, each component of the mace symbolizes an aspect of the College's rich heritage and history.
The head and staff are made from oak, a strong wood to symbolize the institution's ability to rise up from the tragic 1917 fire, which completely destroyed the West Virginia Preparatory School but endured to become the Potomac State School in 1921.
Encircling the head of the mace are four medallions including the official College seal, the "flying WV" logo representing PSC's long affiliation with the University, "WVP" representing the College's beginnings as the Keyser Preparatory Branch of WVU, and the first official seal of the Potomac State School designed in 1925.
Engraved at the top of the staff are the names of the school's founders: Colonel Thomas B. Davis and Judge Francis M. Reynolds. Additional engraved accents on the head and staff include the state's flower, the Rhododendron, to symbolize more than a century of service and commitment to West Virginia.
Old gold cords with tassels and navy blue ribbons tout the school colors representing pride, spirit and loyalty to our alma mater.
Engraved near the center of the staff is the College's charter date – February 15, 1901.
Pieces of coal and coke from the former site of the Davis Coal and Coke Company, near Thomas, W.Va., a profitable business that allowed Colonel Davis to make generous donations to the school.
A piece of original buff brick from the Preparatory School Building.
A donated piece of charred wood, believed to be part of the burned out structure of the Prep School Building, found during the construction of the connector between the Administration Building and Academy Hall in 2007.
A piece of red brick from the current Administration Building.
An acorn from the massive oak tree in front of Science Hall.
Atop the mace is the College's mascot, the Catamount, a mountain lion, hand carved by local artisan, Dr. John R. Garton, from Petersburg, W.Va. He describes the wooden carving as, "The resourceful Catamount ascends the summit of opportunity and surveys, with confidence, a future shaped by the students of Potomac State."
The Academic Mace Bearer each year is the faculty member who earns the honor of Outstanding Professor of the Year.
The College carried the tradition further with the addition of a Student Mace at Commencement May 7, 2016, with a smaller, more modern version of the College's impressive, solid oak Academic Mace, to be carried each year by the Outstanding Student.
On top of the oak staff is a two-sided, gold-plated bronze medal with a "Flying WV" engraved on the front, enameled in old gold and navy blue to identify the College as a proud member of the WVU system. The reverse of the medal nods to the College's history with Potomac State arched across the top and West Virginia Preparatory School curved across the bottom. The center of the medal is divided into three separate sections containing symbols specific to components of the College: academics, athletics and agriculture. To the left is the stylized owl from the entrance of the Administration Building, to the right is the "fierce cat" logo and at the bottom is a representation of the original barn from the College's "Upper Farm."
The medal is a custom design by College Archivist Patricia S. McGuire and fabricated by the Northwest Territorial Mint-Medallic Art Company of Dayton, Nev.
Engraved on gold-plated bands around the staff are Catamount paw prints canted to the right as if in motion to pay tribute to the current graduating class as they follow in the footsteps of their predecessors. From the commencement ceremonies conducted in the massive Prep School Building, to the marches from the Administration Building across the Quad for ceremonies held in the Lough Gymnasium, to crossing the stage in the Church-McKee Arts Center, all graduates through the years have basically shared the same experience. The actual ceremonies may have differed slightly, but one factor always remains constant -- participants enter as students but depart as graduates and new alumni of Potomac State College of WVU.
The Student Mace Bearer each year is the student who earns the honor of Outstanding Student of the Year.


Ridgeland is a delightful diamond engagement ring that was once part of a platinum and diamond Art Deco brooch dating back to 1925. The ring centers an Old European Cut diamond gauged at approximately 0.33ct, graded I-J color and VS2 clarity. The vintage stone is nestled within a platinum bezel enhanced by authentic Art Deco milgrained edges. Trumpet & Horn completed its transformation into a ring by adding an 14k rose gold floral split shank, delicately finished with six Single Cut diamonds totaling approximately 0.05ct in weight. The ring is currently a size 5.75 and can be sized to fit. Please keep in mind the center diamond was not taken out of the setting, so the diamond carat, color and clarity has been estimated.


After having graduated from Bradford College 10 years ago, Darren Baker exhibited in London at the age of 23. Image Credit: www.collect-art.com His painting is characterized by marvelous attention to detail, in addition to being left in a natural state. His preference is for Still Life. Darren Exhibits locally as well as nationally.
One of Euro Puppy's English Bulldog lives in Austria and obviously is having a wonderful time there. We are very proud of him. Do you want to see more English Bulldogs?
I put together a selection of cute and tiny Chihuahua puppies for your enjoyment. Created on a Mac using Comic Life Thinking of buying a puppy for Christmas? Check out our Chihuahua pups TODAY!
Dear Visitor! I hope you enjoy our blog and feel that our site is a good candidate for the "Best Animal Blogger Award 2009". If so, please visit the following site and place your vote for Euro Puppy Blog. I appreciate your blog and look forward to seeing you back! Cheers, Sandor and the Euro Puppy Team!
Euro Puppy's dogs and puppies are temperament tested. The following video speaks for itself. Presented by Your Expert in Exotic Live Animal Events!


I made a Pocket Flower Card last week for Evonne's birthday. It was my first attempt in making one and it was a happy success for me. I love the end result and have shared about it in my personal blog so do go there to browse more picture of the card that I made.
We have decided to add this as one of our new products too so if you would like to make an order or have any questions on it, please email us. Those of you who have our numbers are welcomed to call us too.
Happy crafting peeps and have a great week ahead. God bless!


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Leveraging on our in-depth industry experience, we are engaged in offering a wide array of Non Woven Disposable Pillow Cover that can be customized in various prints as per the requirement of clients. This cover is mostly used in hotels, hospitals, home and other hospitality sector. In order to design and craft this Non Woven Disposable Pillow Cover, our professionals make usage of quality assured fabrics with the help of ultra-modern techniques as per the set industry standards.
Printing: We can print company logo on pillow cover.
Non Woven pillow cover is mostly used in hotels, hospitals, home and airline industry.
Competitive prices adjusted to market.


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Menopausal Care
The Cobb Group strives to be the best
partner in your care by offering a wide
range of services for women of all ages,
including adolescents and teens.
Care and Advice
Every woman deserves quality obstetric
and gynecologic care. Our team works
with you individually to provide the best
care, answer your questions and keep you
informed.
Obstetric Care >> Gynecologic Care >>
The Cobb Group is now welcoming new patients and referrals. We look forward to providing a high level of obstetric and gynecologic care to you in every stage of life.�
Dr. Donald Cobb, M.D.
Dr. Cobb started The Cobb Group in 1973 after the completion of his residency training at St. Mary�s Medical Center in Evansville, IN. He also completed a fellowship in GYN/Oncology at Memorial Sloan Kettering in New York. Prior to this, he attended medical school at The University of Tennessee.
Dr. Cobb delivered thousands of babies in the tri-state area throughout his career. Later in his career, he focused his practice towards the gynecologic aspect of Women�s Health. Along with regular yearly exams, Dr. Cobb specialized in all areas of gynecological surgery. This included in-office Endometrial Ablations for bleeding, in office Sterilizations (Essure), Infertility, Bioidentical Hormone Therapy and Urodynamic testing for bladder leakage. He is now retired.
Dr. Ashley Cobb, D.O.
Dr. Ashley Cobb, a native of Evansville, IN, has recently moved back to the Tri-state area. After earning a BS in Biology and Chemistry at the University of Alabama @ Birmingham, while playing collegiate Division I women�s soccer, she received her medical degree from The University of Health Sciences � College of Osteopathic Medicine in Kansas City, MO. At this point, the choice of pursuing Obstetrics and Gynecology was obvious. After completing residency in Obstetrics and Gynecology at St. John�s Mercy Medical Center in St. Louis, MO, she has followed in the footsteps of her father and brother.
Dr. Ashley believes it�s an honor to bring new life into the world and sharing that special moment with parents is a joy and a privilege. She takes a well-rounded view of medicine and takes pride in catering to a woman�s healthcare in a holistic way. Dr. Cobb wishes to provide a high level of Obstetric and Gynecologic care for women in every stage of life using established, effective methods, as well as, innovative, advanced technologies in a skilled and caring fashion. She is excited to bring, to the Evansville area, the most outstanding care that all patients deserve.
Home | Physicians | Our Services | Obstetric | Fertility Services | Gynecology | In Office Procedures | Menopausal Care | Bladder Control | Contact | Resources
Copyright © 2023 The Cobb Group. All Rights Reserved.


Mixing and matching light fixtures creates a collected look especially appropriate for an eclectic kitchen like this one. This kitchen looks like it evolved over time and mixes industrial pieces — such as the light fixtures and metal chairs — with the traditional cabinetry. The light fixtures seen here relate to each other while keeping with the unfitted look of this historical home.
Light fixtures with vintage appeal perfectly accent this French country kitchen. Two matching lantern-style fixtures light the island, in addition to the recessed ceiling lights. While the rest of the kitchen features light-color paint and bleached-wood cabinets, the dark iron pendants give the room weight.
Everything about this kitchen is traditional: the painted white cabinetry, the dark hardwood floors, and the dramatic coffered ceiling. Instead of using recessed lights in each coffer, the homeowner installed small, semiflush fixtures. Over the island a two-light chandelier adds another layer of lighting. while the wall of unadorned windows floods every inch of the space with even more light.
Kitchen lighting should be as functional as it is fashionable. Here, two wall-mount lights in a brushed-nickel finish illuminate the range and the prep area surrounding it and fit right in with the metal hood and range.
Stagger small light fixtures above the island to bring light to a wider area. The pendants seen here complement the open layout and country style of this kitchen without obstructing the view of the charming red plaid fabric inset in the cabinets or the detailed backsplash and range hood.
Some kitchens call for a bit of sparkle. Here, a curvaceous crystal chandelier adds glamour and a bit of the unexpected to an otherwise subdued gray kitchen.
Lighting contributes to a kitchen's overall look and feel, as seen in this contemporary setting. Cylindrical pendants of varying diameters hang over the island in a staggered pattern to provide fashionable function.
Sleek pendants with metal shades echo the stainless-steel apron-front sink, cabinet hardware, and commercial-style faucet in this kitchen. The lights are attached to the ceiling by an unobtrusive cable, keeping the overhead space open.
Track lighting was installed in this kitchen to spotlight functional areas around the perimeter of the kitchen, shedding light on important work spaces.
The antique look of these glass pendants adds old-fashioned charm to a modern kitchen. Polished-nickel hardware echoes the stainless-steel appliances. and a heavy chain anchors the fixture to the ceiling.
Large kitchens and hefty light fixtures go hand in hand. This kitchen, with its high ceilings and spacious floor plan, requires fixtures substantial enough to balance the space. Chandeliers made with interlocking circles hang above a pair of islands. In a neutral space, intricate lights add detail needed to keep the space interesting.
Infuse even more of the cottage vibe into a kitchen by using a piece of thick rope to hang a pendant. The texture of the rope and the painted metal shade on the vintage pendant give the space a lived-in and comfortable feel.
The minimalist design of these contemporary drum-style pendants works well in a variety of settings. The fixtures are large enough to cast plenty of light on work surfaces, yet with thin, white shades and soft edges, they give the kitchen an open and airy feel.
The organic shape and repeating arrangement of these small pendants works beautifully in this kitchen. Hung at different heights in somewhat random groupings, the shades add subtle variations to the natural look.
The trio of pendants over this island shed a warm glow onto the large work space. Glass shades like these can often be swapped out, which gives you the freedom to try a new look without a lot of work.
Cylindrical pendants with linen shades extend the space vertically and supply artistic interest and practical lighting above the island. Crystal finials add a touch of sparkle.


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While They're Away: The Story of a City at War
February 17, 2015 eventCommunity Project, Oxford Museum, The Great War, Theatre, WW1Matthew
The Museum of Oxford is hosting a compelling new play drawn from authentic accounts of life at the home front in First World War Oxford. This original production brings to light the city's role in the 'War to end all wars' and the parallel stories of the local people whose lives it changed forever. Playwright, Jeremy Allen has worked with members of the local community and delved into local archives to uncover the WW1 experiences of a varied cast of characters from Oxford's past: including Siegfried Sassoon and Lady Ottoline Morrell, as well as many whose stories have yet to be told. City landmarks and buildings take on new meaning as their war-time role is revealed. The drama is performed in the Old Museum at Oxford Town Hall, the site of one of Oxford's WW1 military hospitals.
An UnderConstruction Theatre production in partnership with the Museum of Oxford. Created as part of the Lost Voices of Oxford's Great War, a community project to uncover the city's untold First World War stories. Generously funded by the Heritage Lottery.
7.30pm on 12th and 13th March 2015
2.30pm matinee and 7.30pm on 14th March, £5/£4 concessions, The Old Museum
Ticket office: 01865 305305
Or buy online at
www.oxfordplayhouse.com/ticketsoxford
Or in person at the Oxford Playhouse Box Office


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Labor Force Participation Doesn't Mean What It Used to
Mar. 26, 2014 , at 9:34 AM
By Ben Casselman
As I wrote Wednesday, the U.S. labor force is shrinking. To see why it's important, let's talk about how economists have historically looked at the labor market and how that's changing.
Unemployment is a concept that's surprisingly difficult to define. Someone who's retired shouldn't count as "unemployed." Nor should someone who's decided to stay home to raise the kids. But what about someone who would like a job but is watching the kids until a job comes along? Or someone who gets laid off and goes back to school? Decades ago, government economists decided to focus on what people did rather than what they said: If someone was "actively" searching for a job, they were unemployed. If they weren't, they weren't. The unemployment rate is just the share of the labor force actively looking for work.
That definition left gray areas — What does it mean to be actively searching? How recently do you have to have looked? — but it proved to be a good indicator of the health of the economy. When the economy weakened, people lost jobs and the unemployment rate went up. When it strengthened, people found jobs and the unemployment rate went down. Look at a chart of the unemployment rate over the decades:
The unemployment rate paints a pretty clear picture of the ups and downs that economists call the business cycle. But economists are interested in another type of change in the economy: long-term structural changes. When more women started working in the middle of the 20th century, that was a structural change. The aging of the baby boom generation is another.
Economists have tracked structural changes in the labor market through a measure known as the participation rate, which is the share of the adult population that's either employed or unemployed. The chart below shows the participation rate since the end of World War II. Unlike the unemployment rate, the participation rate looks like a smooth curve. Cyclical downturns are visible — the rate of increase slows during the recessions of the early 1980s, for example — but they're much less prominent than the long-term trend: a rise during the 20th century, followed by a flattening out and then a gradual decline.
Then, during the recent recession, the participation rate dropped sharply — much more so than would be expected based on the long-term trend. And during the slow recovery, the unemployment rate has fallen faster than would be expected based on the overall improvement in the economy.
What happened? In a word, the recession. The recession and weak recovery have led millions of jobless Americans to give up looking for work, meaning they no longer count as part of the labor force. That threw off the usual patterns: The participation rate fell for cyclical, rather than structural reasons, while the unemployment rate didn't accurately reflect the state of the business cycle.
Knowing that the old rules don't apply is one thing. Knowing what the new rules are is another — hence the disagreement among economists about the true state of the job market.
Ben Casselman was a senior editor and the chief economics writer for FiveThirtyEight. @bencasselman
Unemployment (95 posts) Labor Force (11) Job Market (8) Labor Force Participation (5)


HomeDiabetesControlling Diabetes – What Are The Right Ways?
Once you have received a diagnosis of diabetes, you will need to start learning how to control the disease. It is only by controlling the illness that you can enjoy your life without some of the life-threatening complications that can accompany diabetes when left untreated. While a diagnosis of diabetes can be daunting, knowledge and a determination to take control are important to live successfully with the disease. This will make it necessary to educate yourself about the illness.
Diet plays an important – possibly the most important – role in controlling diabetes. It is necessary that the diabetic and his or her caregiver be aware of dietary needs, since this can have an impact on your blood glucose levels. The amount of food you eat at each meal will be dependent on your particular caloric intake needs. Setting up a routine so that meals and medicines are taken at the same time each day diminishes the likelihood of missed meals and or medication.
Keeping fit and exercising has been proven to play a role in controlling blood sugar levels and the overall health of the diabetic. In addition, if you are overweight, a dangerous state for the diabetic, exercise will help you shed pounds, thus reducing the risks posed by the diseases.
Other lifestyle changes necessary to maintain good health include controlling your blood pressure and cholesterol levels. In addition, reducing your stress will lead to a healthier you. If you smoke, it is advisable that you stop smoking as it increases the risk of complications from the disease. The diabetic should also have their eyes checked at least annually because of other health issues arising from the condition. Foot care is also important as poor blood circulation frequently leads to amputations. However, if you pay attention to changes and minor cuts, you can save yourself lots of heartache.
Ultimately, the only way to have control over your health and diabetes is to know what causes the disease and how to prevent the development of major complications. It is important that you get help to make meal plans and develop an exercise routine suited for your lifestyle. Joining groups comprised of fellow diabetics and their loved ones is a good source of information. Groups also help make the emotional challenges of dealing with the disease easier to handle. Pricking your finger to test your sugar level may be difficult at first but will become easier with time and loved ones can also assist with this task.


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Meet the pandemic-era women helping to keep California's craft beer industry afloat
Alyssa Pereira
The panic came on suddenly.
When the coronavirus landed in California and the Bay Area closed its non-essential businesses, the precipitous loss in revenue sent the state's breweries - along with its bars and wineries - into a tailspin. Small craft breweries had fresh beer in the tank ready to be kegged and now, very restricted access to a consumer base to drink it. Very abruptly, the future for craft breweries already working within tight profit margins looked bleak.
"We literally now haven't kegged anything in two months just because there was no point," says Claudia Pamparana, co-founder of Alameda's Faction Brewing. The brewery usually sells kegs and kegs of draft IPAs and pilsners to dozens of locals at its large taproom and expansive outdoor patio. But it's going to be a while before those droves of beer drinkers return.
"It's been frustrating," she says. "It's depressing to not have people sitting on our patio."
The new objective for the foreseeable future for Faction - and for others across Northern California - was (and is) to can that perishable beer and sell it off as fast as possible, while it's still fresh. So they called the Can Van.
Courtesy the Can Van
The Can Van, founded in 2011 by Jenn Coyle and Lindsey Herrema, is, they believe, the world's first mobile canning company. They're based in Sacramento, but service the near-entirety of Northern California — a 150-mile radius from the capital, as far east as Lake Tahoe — with a fleet of seven canning machines, each of which is packable in, well, a van. Beer fans can thank them for regularly packaging for some of the most popular breweries in the state, including Cellarmaker, Temescal, Moksa, Urban Roots, and even Russian River.
When the pandemic hit, as Coyle and Herrema remember, everything shifted. It wasn't just their usual customers requesting visits, but businesses that they hadn't seen in a while, or in some cases, were brand new. It was a bit of a shock for the pair. The Can Van had begun to branch further into canning for wineries, but unexpectedly, those clients dropped off and breweries came calling. They had to brace for the impact of the change in workflow while navigating the complexities of staying safe through a virus outbreak themselves.
"I was really emotional about [it] the first several weeks, like, what can I do? How do we not let anybody down?" Coyle recalls. "How are we going to do this? We gotta make sure everybody is comfortable working, and have safety measures in place. We're sending people out into those environments, but we have an obligation to support breweries because they have supported us. This is the time to pull out all the stops to do what we can."
The two decided to reconsider their usual contract. Typically, the Can Van works with a minimum canning order of about 100-200 cases of beer — each case is 24 cans — and that typically keeps a van onsite at a brewery all day. But not all the very small breweries can fill that much beer or afford that expense, especially now, so Herrema and Coyle decided to do away with the requirement.
"We'll do 40 cases and pack up and go across town and do another," Herrema says.
"It all kind of evens out," Coyle continues. "We've got bigger jobs and smaller jobs. We're willing to loosen things up on the smaller [end] to give everyone the best opportunity. It's the big and small that make up the diverse fabric of the craft beer industry."
Courtesy Can Van
It's these tiny, mostly draft-oriented breweries that may need them most right about now, says Tom McCormick, executive director of the California Craft Brewers Association.
Many small craft breweries usually optimize profit margins by selling draft beer direct from a brewery taproom because it's more lucrative than selling beer through a distributor to a bar or a retail shop. When the coronavirus shuttered taprooms, all that potential revenue from draft evaporated. Now, the dominant way to sell beer for breweries is to can it and sell it to-go.
But that presents another issue. Most craft breweries can't afford canning machines, which cost upwards of $100,000-$200,000. Mobile canning operations like the Can Van are, for most, far more cost effective.
"We have breweries that are hanging on by a thread," McCormick says. "Anything that they can do to generate revenue could potentially be the thing that allows them to keep the lights on long enough to get through this to the point where we start to get back to normal and reopen."
The Can Van, he adds, has likely already "helped some from going out of business."
One brewery feeling the stress of that drop in revenue is ThirstyBear Organic in downtown San Francisco. The two-story brewpub, founded by Ron Silberstein (also of Admiral Maltings), relies in part on the many conventions and events regularly taking place at the Moscone Center and elsewhere in nearby SoMa. With those off the calendar, Silberstein is working to get his fresh beer in cans — something ThirstyBear has never done in the 24 years it's been in business.
"It's what we need to be out there and to be in people's minds," Silberstein says. "Does it make financial sense? At this point, absolutely not … I don't see it as viable in terms of paying wages and things like that but it's better than nothing."
ThirstyBear received a PPP loan (as has Faction), but Silberstein still feels a bit nervous looking at revenue. "I've gotta start looking at the numbers, but right now it's, what can we do? Let's just go, just sell as much as we can."
The canning helps though, and even on the other side of this, he says ThirstyBear will continue regularly packaging beer. "Maybe it's going to be our direction of the future."
The new reality for breweries like ThirstyBear is that they need to pivot their business models to prioritize can sales first. The ones that don't might not make it through.
In March, the Brewers Association, a national trade group for breweries, found nearly half of American brewery owners believed their breweries would only be able to sustain the drop in revenue for one to three months before they would need to permanently close. Locally, the strain on breweries thus far has been significant, but only one in the Bay Area has shuttered so far. McCormick, however, still anticipates there will be more to come.
"When we come out the other end, there will be fewer breweries," McCormick says. "We just don't know how many at this time won't be able to make it."
That's a possibility the Can Van owners are well aware of, in large part because it could impact their business too. There's the very real chance that breweries unable to stay afloat won't be able to pay them for completed canning runs. They're trying not to think about that — many breweries are run by friends and respected industry peers.
"We're not in a position to pick winners and losers," Herrema says. "We want as many to get through this as possible."


It was a tough first couple of weeks for me in Hawaii (read Part I of this blog here). As I saw our old house, the restaurants, the trails and the beaches, I cried lots of tears in remembrance of the deep pain experienced when my marriage ended and our family dynamics shifted 6 years ago.
I had not been excited for this trip to Hawaii. In actuality, I love Hawaii, yet the fact that I experienced the deepest pain of my life there, created a sense of sadness for me when I thought of the beautiful place. Hence I had not returned since divorcing. It had been 6 years since I stepped foot on this island.
As I felt all those emotions coming back up the first weeks in Hawaii, I sensed I was releasing yet another level of pain.
Healing appears to me to be a spiral and as we move along, some things come circling back with a slightly different twist as they come around again and again to complete the cycle of healing.
Interestingly, as described in part I of this blog, that phase completed and I felt a sense of healing, momentum and joy! That was a tremendous makana (gift in Hawaiian).
Hawaii had more gifts for me as they continued to be revealed.
My kids came to Hawaii. I met them the day they arrived with their dad and we all went to Kalama beach park where we used to play when we all lived here. We all immediately ran for and played in the ocean together. It was a beautiful little family reunion of happiness.
Feeling immensely grateful for having the time and space before they arrived to release that pain, I felt positive and joyous in the family fun and excitement of that evening.
Then my kids and I got to spend an entire week together in paradise.
We went to Kawela Bay, the place where we spent my daughter's first week of life. We rented a house right after she was born with family as we all shared in taking care of her and taking care of me. It was an absolutely gorgeous, nurturing environment to be a new mom.
What's funny is I didn't even realize that's where we were going that day. We decided to try a new trail and it led straight to Kawela Bay. I was completely amazed upon arriving thinking, Oh my gosh, this is where my daughter spent her first week of life and here she is 13 years later walking this beach as a beautiful young woman.
Hardly anyone was around and it was a beautiful day on that beach. We swam, ran, played, had contests, checked out the crabs… what a gift.
We visited friends we had not seen in a very long time and reconnected (more gifts).
I realized I had phenomenal friends, amazing people who loved me deeply and supported me during the divorce. And still do. I realized the gifts of friendships that were still there! Still resounding, still solid. I am supported and loved by so many. I pray I never again feel alone because I can at once remember my loving supportive network of beautiful souls in Hawaii and elsewhere.
One day while hiking I stopped and climbed into a Banyan tree and started Mana Gardening and meditating. I received a message, another amazing gift from Hawaii as I heard these words: Remember, this is where it all began.
I knew exactly what that meant. You see, while going through divorce, I hiked a lot because nature nurtured me and allowed me to feel more ease in my world.
Trees specifically were immensely powerful for me during that time. I meditated next to trees or while sitting on trees. I almost always felt some kind of energetic transmission, as if the trees were taking something from me. I remember those days thinking, What on Earth would they be taking from me? My inner garden revealed that the trees were taking away my pain.
They loved me and took my pain away. I always, without fail, left the forest feeling lighter and more capable of handling the situation at hand.
While sitting in the Banyan tree, I was reminded that this relationship (if you will), with trees started in Hawaii. I felt graced as I remembered this wholeheartedly as true. The 'Aina had spoken to me once again. I felt how loved I am by the 'Aina. Another immense gift.
Gifts also included the amazing situation that my dear friend Keti set up for me. Her family and friends were welcoming and happy to have me around. They made me feel like part of the Ohana and like an important part of their world. Keti let me drive her car around for over a month while she got a ride to work with her dear friend who lived up the street. She, time and time again, made accommodations to make it easy for me to be there.
Also a friend from Asheville joined me in Hawaii for about 9 days. This is when I actually took time off from the work I felt like I should do and allowed myself to be on vacation. He and I adventured daily on big hikes, little hikes, snorkeling in calm water, snorkeling in turbulent water (we could have totally gotten eaten by the ocean that day! Happy to be alive! Yet another gift that we are both still here!), jumping off waterfalls, jumping off the giant rock into Waimea bay, checking out the vast differences in flora and fauna from what we see back home, meditating in nature, eating amazing Hawaiian and Asian food, dancing, watching sunsets over the Waianae coast and on the North Shore, surfing and playing in the waves, and checking out the Buddhist temples. We got along great and explored so much together totally as friends. I am forever grateful for his presence with that week because otherwise I would have felt like I should be working and would not have allowed myself to have so many beautiful explorations and connections with the 'Aina, the spirit of the land of Hawaii.
I was truly amazed at all the Aloha this land was freely giving to me. I am so happy that I was aware enough to notice it and give my appreciation back!
Many Blessings and Warm Aloha on your Journey!
…To be continued in Part III– The Final Gift from Soul, where I share my prayer to the 'Aina of Hawaii for its innumerable makana (gifts in Hawaiian).
Ps. I am incredibly blessed to have been given this gift of Mana Gardening. Get the book and try it for yourself. It is an easy, fast and fun way to connect to the infinite wisdom that lies within. You'll feel yourself as empowered to live and love. If books aren't your thing, try a class or set up a series of sessions with me or Keti. We will be doing podcasts shortly and hope to have an audio book out soon as well. Our mission is to serve our fellow souls, so reach out if you are called.
While passing the entrance to the first waterfall trailhead, I felt no impetus to turn that way, so continued on towards the second one.
Then I accidentally went the wrong way, the long way.
Instead of turning around, I just continued going the long way. About a half mile later I knew where my Soul was taking me.
Not to the waterfall, but to the Friendship garden, a super special place for me. I burst into tears upon realizing that my Soul is truly driving, even when I don't think it is. And I was crying because of the significance of coming full circle yet again in Hawaii. There are so many levels to the healing and releasing I experienced here this summer.
I must have hiked this trail a hundred times when I lived here. This hike was instrumental in me becoming so attuned to the healing nature and connection of trees while I was going through the ending of my marriage, as described in Part I and Part II of this blog.
THIS is the place where the trees first took my pain from me, and they did that for me time and time again.
I got to BE there, with them again and it felt like a blissful reunion. Having released so much, this felt like coming home, coming full circle with healing my past and creating a fresh perspective of love and reverence for the 'Aina of Hawaii.
I feel blessed, I feel nurtured, I feel whole, I feel complete. I feel like you helped me release Oh so much and allowed me to receive closure on things I had no idea that I needed closure on.
I came full circle on healing my past and with the pain of resisting one of the greatest gifts of my life. I now truly see it as an immense blessing and gift from Hawaii.
Hawaii you gave me my kids, you gave me freedom, you gave me dear, amazing, supportive souls along the way who are my life-long friends and family, you gave me healing, relationship and ecstasy with trees, you gave me the priceless gift of Mana Gardening, and the mission to share this amazing work with the world!!
For this I bow in appreciation and reverence. My heart acknowledges your gifts, your love, your Aloha, and your support. I am eternally grateful for these gifts, for this trip, for this journey of soul realignment and release of what no longer serves me, and for all the doors that are now open!! The doors to being more of my true self, to opening to a new and powerful relationship, to sharing Mana Gardening widely and doing biomedical research on the techniques, the doors that are swinging wide open to bring me more and more of all things good.
Graciously accept my sincere, heartfelt appreciation and please continue to assist me in aligning with the highest version of myself in ALL that I AM and in ALL that I DO. I am with you and you are with me, always.
Aloha nui loa and Mahalo nui loa Dear Aloha 'Aina.
May your Love and Light continue to Bless me, and others through me, and indeed all.
To get yourself or a loved one the priceless gift of Mana Gardening, order the book and try it for yourself. Research already shows effectiveness of these techniques (in the Prologue)! Mana Gardening is an easy, fast and fun way to connect to the infinite wisdom that lies within. You'll feel empowered to live and love. If books aren't your thing, try a class or set up a series of sessions with me or Keti. We will be doing podcasts shortly and hope to have an audio book out soon as well. Our mission is to serve our fellow souls, so reach out if you are called. We love sharing Mana Gardening with businesses, retreats, at festivals and gatherings, workshops and more.


Instead of working on actual songs this week, I decided to put the newly-finished Gristleizer mark II through its paces. The goal was to use it to make a reasonably convincing pseudo-Throbbing Gristle track within the space of an afternoon. I was very happy with the results.
Therefore, I give you Throbbing Reagan Jones. I'd say "Enjoy," but it's not really that kind of track, now, is it?
It's nothing to take seriously, and it's in no way shape or form the work of The Long Afternoon as a group, but since it sounds kinda creepy and we are coming up on Halloween, I thought I'd share it.
All the "instrumental" audio was generated by a Casio WK-3000 keyboard on various audio settings run through the Gristleizer. The low pulses and high whines were created by manipulating the Gristleizer's speed control, and various tonalities were also tweaked by changing the Gristleizer's wave form and adjusting the bias.
The four basic tracks — two low drones, the high-pitched whine, and the percussion — were dropped into Logic. Aside from a little compression, no additional processing or manipulation was performed, so what you'll hear is pretty much all due to the Gristleizer.
On top of this bed of noise, in acknowledgment of Throbbing Gristle* and the inspiration they drew from the work of William Burroughs and Brion Gysin, I decided to use found audio and employ parts of the cut-up technique to see if any new meanings could be derived from melding two ostensibly independent documents.
First up was a recording of a pre-politics Ronald Reagan inveighing against the eeeeevils of socialized medicine. I cut that into bite-sized snippets and dumped those, in order, into Logic.
My second audio source was the infamous final tape from Jonestown. (This is a truly horrific document, and what I've done with it here in no way endorses, excuses, minimizes, nor mocks the cruelty and suffering that took place there. If the very idea of my using this audio this way disturbs or offends you, you shouldn't bother listening to this.) Again, the document was cut into snippets, which were then dumped, sequentially, into Logic.
I decided to start and end with Jim Jones. Each statement from Jones was followed by one from Reagan, creating a sort of conversation that begins about 30 seconds into the track and ends about 30 seconds before the entire track concludes.
I could pretend that I was trying to make some big point by juxtaposing the words of two leaders whose appeal always eluded me, and who left their followers in much worse shape than they were before. (You're entitled, of course, to feel differently about either one of them.) The truth, though, is that I just needed to throw some audio on top of this horrible noise and the idea of putting these two together had a certain sick appeal to me.
*even if you know about/love/hate TG already, you really should do yourself a favor and read Mark Prindle's reviews of their albums. And everybody else's albums. He's the best rock writer since Lester Bangs. No, really, he is.