text:
Spill the BeansSpill the BeansSpill the Beans
Order your book here
Challenge 8 roundup
Week 4 Challenge 9 poems
poems wk 5 Challenge 9
Robin Moorhouse
Meet some of our Authors
Julie Howard
Nowt But Drippin'
Buy her book
Jamie Brooke
Wilbert the Wombat saves the day
Wilbert the Wombat Social Distances
Buy her books
Claire Thom
Haiku Poet
"Ever Forward"
Cindy Davies
Meet Cindy Davies (aka Cindy Broadbent)
Cindy is a multi-award-winning author of two novels set in Iran, USA and Australia. Cindy has been a teacher, free-lance writer and tour guide in Sydney and Turkey. She lived in Turkey for two years and still speaks the language. Her latest novel, an historical romance, Favourite of the Harem takes us into the harem of the Topkapı Palace of Istanbul in 1518. A prince saves a slave girl from drowning and defying convention he falls in love with her… It's currently with a publisher. Check out her website www.cindydavies.com.au for lots of photos and information
Cindy's books
Cindy's novel The Afghan Wife (Odyssey Books in 2017) is set in Iran during the 1979 Islamic Revolution. Afghan woman, Zahra. and her cousin, Firzun, become involved in a plot to overthrow the new regime. Then widow Zahra falls in love with wealthy charismatic Karim. The book's sequel The Revolutionary's Cousin (2019) follows Zahra and her young son to a migrant hostel in Wollongong Australia, but she cannot escape her dangerous past in Iran. In the US Karim becomes involved with some shady characters while desperately wanting to reunite with Zahra, miles away across the Pacific Ocean.
Cindy was thrilled to add first place in the 2021 NSW Society of Women Writers national short story competition to her list of achievements.
She was also awarded a ten-week writer's residency in the UK which she'll take up in 2023.
To publicise her novels, Cindy has a full calendar of talks and presentations about Iran for 2022. She loves the novels of the Brontë and also presents PowerPoint talks about their writing and their lives.
Helen Lyne performance poet and writer.
Love, Disappointment and Other Joys of Life
Helen draws inspiration from her experiences as a traveller, teacher, movie extra and resident of Reims in the Champagne region of France, Winnipeg on the Canadian prairies and Sydney's Northern Beaches.
See more about Helen and order her books at: www.helenlyne.com.au
In June 2021, Ginninderra Press published a collection of her short stories entitled
Love, Disappointment and Other Joys of Life.
These are a few of the thirty-one stories. A dying woman is taken surfing by her carer. A young Australian traveller receives a marriage proposal at an oasis in Algeria. A businessman interviews a job-seeker who bullied him when they were at school. A student inspires a teacher to leave her abusive husband. A grandmother-to-be rejoices in her first one-night stand. Helen's protagonists range in age from adolescence to atrophy. With ingenuity, resilience and bloody-mindedness they kick over the rock of life's disappointments and discover freedom, love, laughter and well-satisfied lust.
Helen the performer
Helen also presents satirical and self-send-up poetry at open mic nights in cafes, pubs and book shops.
The monthly Bonfire open mic at Desire Books and Records in Manly is a great place to find beginning and experienced poets, story tellers and musicians. (Tone-deaf Helen is not a musician!)
Caterina, her fantom feline muse, ghost-writes her performance poems. She wrote "A Shimmy in the Shower in Chinon" for Helen to perform after their last trip to France.
Here is the first verse.
My hotel in Chinon is cheap.
No lift and the staircase is steep.
The shower's so little
a guest there should whittle
the fat from her stomach and thighs
before she steps in, otherwise,
she'll look like a dope
when she drops the soap
and that's just what happened to me
and left me with no dignity
Felicity Pullman
Through her writing, Felicity takes us on many thrilling adventures, from the Quarantine Station in Manly with her time-slip novel, Ghost Boy, to the dangerous magic of the court of King Arthur and Camelot. Walk in the footsteps of the infamous Morgana le Fay, and meet a commandant's daughter on Norfolk Island, whose ill-fated love affair with a convict is mirrored in present time
(A Ring Through Time.)
Meet Felicity and find out more about her books and characters. Join us at the 'Beans" picnic at Manly Dam.
Lovers of Camelot - it's time to revisit the magical and dangerous Otherworld through the newly updated and revised Shalott trilogy. Five Australian teenagers venture into the unknown to rescue 'the Lady of Shalott' and save Camelot. What they find there will break Callie's heart, while all of their lives will be changed forever.
Purchase on-line or at local bookshops.
Better still, come and get your copies at our Manly Dam Picnic.
Order her books
We were delighted when Felicity entered our
Spill the Beans Challenges. We LOVE her writing.
We were even more delighted when she offered to join the Beans team to raise funds.
Do you love writing? Event management? Administration? Website building? Promotion?
Tell us what you love to do by sending an email to spillthebeans321@gmail.com
Come volunteer with us!
'You know my name – but you don't know my story.' A child wronged? Or a vengeful woman bent on destruction? Morgana le Fay, one of the most reviled characters in Arthurian legend, tells her side of what really happened in that Otherworld so long ago.
The Janna Chronicles: a six-book medieval crime series tells the story of a young woman fleeing her home to seek justice for the murder of her mother. Her search for her unknown father leads her from forest to farm, abbey, Stonehenge, and finally into the heart of the royal court at Winchester, where she becomes caught up in the deadly civil war between King Stephen and the Empress Matilda.
Froggy is haunted by a ghost from the past – but can he trust Tad to help him unravel the mystery of what happened at the Quarantine Station so long ago? And can he win Cassie's friendship and support as he faces his worst nightmares in order to find out what's been hidden for so long?
Karen Hendriks
Congratulations Karen Hendriks
Sarah Ferguson reading Feathers by Karen Hendriks
Congratulations to Karen who with Kim Fleming has been shortlisted for the Rubery Book Awards 2021, for the wonderful book 'Feathers'.
#Feathers #KimFleming #EmpoweringResources#RuberyBookAwards2021
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gmatykOK5i8
Launch of Home
Karen Hendriks's new picture book 'Home' has just been released. It is about losing a home, finding a new one but never forgetting the one you lost. The book was launched at #WindangPrimarySchool. It is inspired by her own family heritage with themes of refugees and migrants. Find out more at #DaisyLanePublishing
Meet some of our members
We all should have a flashback or two!
Congratulations to Wendy Margaret on the publication of her first book Flashback!
Oh my goodness what a life!
Robin is a founding member of Spill the Beans. She is best known for the Australian Nurses Memorial in Canberra. https://publicart.work/australian-nurses-war-memorial-robin-moorhouse
Meet one of our challenge 5 writers
LUCY ELLIOTT: GETTING STARTED
Manly is the inspiration for what Lucy Elliott hopes will be her first novel.
But Lucy, (on the left of our picture, with Julie Howard and Patricia Griffen) says she's always wanted to write a novel, though until fairly recently had written very little fiction for about 25 years.
Lucy and her husband Jeremy, an energy broker, have two children. They have lived on the Northern Beaches for seven years after moving to Sydney from London 11 years ago. 'We were only going to stay two years,' she says, 'but we'll never go back now.'
But Lucy, who has a marketing background who now does the market research for her husband's company, is no stranger to writing. In 2008 in London she started a blog advising couples how to save money on their weddings. It was spotted by the BBC and it took off. She appeared on the BBC wedding channel and later presented Three Grand Weddings for a Freeview cable TV company for two years.
'This was a play on the words,' she says. 'How to put on a wedding for £3000 - not easy.'
Wonderful days, but there were even better ones ahead.
Lucy was among about a dozen published and would-be authors at Spill the Beans first POP-UP writing event at the Harry Hartog book shop in Warringah Mall.
She was intrigued when she spotted a poster in the bookshop advertising the Northern Beaches POP UP writing event and decided to go along. She describes it as 'a wonderful afternoon' of writing and ideas. She was especially delighted when she won one of the challenges.
Come meet the team
You can join us 3...2..1 ...come write with us .
We wish you happy holidays with a story and a poem from two
A MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL YOU BEANSTERS from Danny Coyle
Picture the scene a small end terraced house, two rooms downstairs. The kitchen with a gas ring sat on the top of a board that covered the bath under the window, (yes that's right a bath in the kitchen with a board on top as a worktop). It also had an open fire and Yorkshire range for all the cooking and the gas ring for boiling the kettle for a cuppa, mum's favourite drink.
There was a table and a radio. The storage was cupboard space, a pantry and a lobby for all dad's trantlements as he called them. Then there was the front room with sofa, a piano and a large table. A staircase off, leading to three bedrooms - Mum and Dad's, Mark my eldest brother's and the other I shared with my youngest brother.
Outside was a yard, a toilet and a coal house. The house was very cold in winter with frost on the inside of the windows. The year was 1964 Mark was 9, I was 8 and Chris was 2 .
With Mum and Dad both being blind, things used to get pretty funny at Christmas. The house was decorated with home made paper trimmings, an artificial tree that was way past its sell-by date, and Christmas lantern lights - only half working.
My Aunty Nora told my dad she was getting him a bird for Christmas, so dad didn't order a capon from the butcher. Christmas Eve arrives and dad's got his roasting tray and put in the fat for cooking and may I say even more on the table and down his front.
Aunty Nora arrived with the bird and to dad's dismay it was a budgie in a cage. Dad was gobsmacked! The budgie was in trauma when he saw a box of Paxo and a roasting tray. Panic set in quick and in his Yorkshire twang dad said 'Nah then arr Dan get thi shoys on an tec mi up roord to Len's and see if he as owt left.'
So off we set. Len was just closing as we got there. Len said 'what's up wi thi Jim, that looks like thars lost a Bob and found a tanner' (slang for a shilling and a sixpence). Dad said 'Are Nora said she was gerrint bird for Christmas an she brought us a flamin' budgie as tha gor owt left'. Luckily he had a turkey that was to serve 12, that hadn't been collected so Len gave it to Dad, free of charge. It was massive. He had to cut the legs off to get it in the roasting tin and cook those separately. Well we had the best Christmas ever. Our presents weren't expensive but we loved them. We were eating turkey every meal for a week but it was wonderful. Myself and my brothers were loved by two wonderful parents and I wouldn't have changed it one iota.
Cheers from Barbara Caldicott
A TIME TO CONNECT
A TIME FOR HUGS AND KISSES
A TIME FOR BEING TOGETHER
A TIME FOR MERRIMENT
A TIME FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS
A TIME FOR KINDNESS
A TIME FOR CONSIDERATION
A TIME FOR GIFTS AND GREETINGS
A TIME TO RESUME OLD LIVES
A TIME FOR RENEWAL
A TIME FOR APPRECIATION
NATURE, FLOWERS, TREES
A TIME FOR OLD TRADITIONS
A TIME FOR CHRISTMAS JOY.
Copyright remains with contributors at all times.
By entering a challenge contributors agree that stories or poems may be published online; in SPILL THE BEANS books or in promotional materials.
While Spill the Beans values the author's authentic voice it retains the right to make editorial changes where needed.


text:
Frequently, electric cars are associated with a higher risk of fire compared to fossil-fuel vehicles. But in fact, the very opposite may be true. Nevertheless, serious consideration must be given to the other risks associated with electric vehicles and their batteries.
"Electric cars in parking lots keep catching fire" "Fireman: Electric cars are one of the biggest dangers we face right now" "Tesla vehicle blamed for major fire that destroyed hundreds of cars"
As electric cars have become more common over the years, so have headlines like these. But, according to Ola Willstrand, Project Manager at RISE, there is no clear evidence of there being a higher risk of fire with electric cars compared to fossil-fuel vehicles. In fact, the risk might even be lower.
"Car fires are frequently caused by a leakage of flammable liquid or gas, which ignites on a hot surface. There aren't any such liquids in electric vehicles, thereby eliminating that risk. With hybrids, however, the risk remains," he says.
Fire at Stavanger Airport
Early in January of this year, news spread around the world that an electric car had caused a major fire and collapse of a parking garage at Stavanger Airport. The police later refuted that claim, stating that the fire had actually originated in an older model diesel car.
"The first reports in media tend to be exaggerated or even false. I don't know anything more about the fire at Stavanger than what was reported in the news. It's unfortunate, however, that a quick first response was hampered by the rumour and fear of a fire in an electric vehicle," says Ola Willstrand.
Type of battery matters
Perhaps the biggest reason why electric vehicles are perceived as being a greater fire risk is that they are run on lithium-ion batteries, which have caused things like mobile phones and hoverboards to catch on fire or even explode. But not all batteries are the same. When it comes to safety, the type of battery really matters.
"Battery design in the automotive industry is typically better, with higher requirements on testing, along with higher-quality safety systems," says Ola Willstrand.
The reason for fires involving electric cars is typically associated with something other than the battery. From a safety perspective, however, it is still an important matter because burning batteries emit toxic fumes.
"Because the battery is typically located low down in the car, it is somewhat protected if the car catches on fire. Tests have shown that it often takes more than 30 minutes, with the vehicle fully engulfed in flames, before the battery is involved," he says.
Not more dangerous, but different
In other words, it would be incorrect to conclude that there is a greater risk of fire with electric cars or that the risks are greater if they do catch fire. The risks are, however, different. If lithium-ion batteries short-circuit, cells can enter a state known as "thermal runaway," in which they continue heating up to a point where they can eventually ignite. It is difficult, however, to assess the status of a battery and they typically catch fire long after the initial damage has occurred. Because of that, recycling also involves certain risks.
All of this puts new requirements on knowledge and guidelines. RISE is working to both generate and spread such knowledge.
Read more about Ola
Contact Ola
As society becomes increasingly high-tech, digital and complex, it also becomes more vulnerable. There is a growing trend towards connected systems and just-in-time delivery. Risk analysis and crisis preparedness will help us to b…
Every year, many people are injured or killed in fires. Fires also incur billions in material costs. Preventing, containing and extinguishing fires saves money, the environment and, above all, saves lives. RISE has one of the lar…
More knowledge needed on electric vehicle fires
A fire in an electric vehicle differs from a petrol or diesel fire, meaning that emergency personnel require more knowledge about how to manage burning electric vehicles.

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


text:
Bud Light commemorative packs sold out in seconds, left consumers 'starving' for more
While it was a lot of fun, the limited-edition commemorative packs caused headaches for some local beer distributors
By Jenny DeHuff
PhillyVoice Contributor
Lifestyle Beer
Philadelphia Mayor Jim Kenney and "The Town Crier," pose with a Bud Light Super Bowl LII "Philly Philly" Commemorative pack.
Buzz about the limited-edition Bud Light "Philly Philly" commemorative packs broke out like the town crier announcing the royal birth. Everyone had their ear to the ground – and their credit cards ready.
It was as if the entire city was crawling to get their hands on those fancy, individually numbered Bud Light glasses etched with the words "Super Bowl LII Champions" on them, along with a 25-ounce aluminum bottle (no beer in it, mind you.)
And boy, did they sell out quick.
RELATED: Bud Light 'Philly Philly' commemorative packs on sale today
While beer distributors across the city enjoyed a huge day of sales last Thursday, they shared the same frustrations over inadequate supply for massive demand.
Bud Light produced 20,418 commemorative packs, which corresponded with the date of the Eagles' Super Bowl win over the New England Patriots on 02/04/2018.
Mary McMullen, assistant manager at Bella Vista Beer Distributors, said that a line of dozens of people began to snake around the outside of the store around 2 p.m., when news broke that the packs would be going on sale right at 4 p.m. While Bud Light wouldn't disclose which locations would sell the packs, consumers were lining up at stores all around town on just a hunch, a hope and a prayer.
While they only had 18 to sell, McMullen said that the Bud Light packs at Bella Vista were sold out within minutes.
"The line started forming at 2 p.m. They were gone by 4:05 [p.m.]," she told Philly Voice.
"We got more than 100 phone calls that day…Eventually we just started answering the phone with, 'Sorry, we're out.'"
McMullen said that folks at the end of the line were so desperate to get their hands on the collector's item that they were waiting to see if anyone in front of them had been turned away from a credit card denial.
Franklin Beverage, a mom and pop beer distributor at 18th and Callowhill streets, has been in business for 11 years.
Owner Joe Carroll said that they were only allocated eight Bud Light commemorative packs, and (not surprisingly) they were gone that afternoon.
For all the promotion, it was almost not even worth it. Bud Light should have probably made more."
"The phone didn't stop ringing," Carroll said.
"People started Facebooking and texting us early about it, so we had three or four that were pre-sold…We tried to hold them for some of our loyal customers. But people were starving for them.
A Bud Light spokesperson said that the company knew the packs were going to be popular, but that they were surprised by the "overwhelming" response from Eagles fans.
"We had some retailers telling us that they had lines outside their stores with people waiting to purchase the pack. As a result of the strong demand, we sold out of the pack within a few days of it becoming available," the spokesperson wrote in an e-mail.
"We hope that Philly Philly fever continues as we approach kick-off and we're going to do our best to continue delivering for the city of Philadelphia and the Eagles fans."
Follow Jenny & PhillyVoice on Twitter: @RuffTuffDH | @thePhillyVoice
Like us on Facebook: PhillyVoice
Add Jenny's RSS feed to your feed reader.
Have a news tip? Let us know.
Jenny DeHuff
Read more Lifestyle Beer Drinking Consumers Bud Light


text:
Monday, January 20 Lifestyle Subscribe
Lifestyle Subscribe
From H-E-B to highways: 5 observations from my first 2 months in San Antonio
Randi Stevenson|on December 7, 2019
1. What does H-E-B stand for?
The Alamo City's favorite grocery store was known as "C.C. Butt Grocery" (or similar variations) for the first 37 years of its life. It was founded by Florence Butt in November 1905, in Kerrville. Fourteen years later, Butt turned over management to her youngest son, Howard Edward Butt, who had delivered groceries from the store as a boy. It wasn't until 1942 that Howard Butt first opened a store under the name H-E-B, in San Antonio. Now, the popular grocery chain also uses the initials for its slogan: "Here everything's better."
The Alamo City's favorite grocery store was known as "C.C. Butt Grocery" (or similar variations) for the first 37 years of its life. It was founded by Florence Butt in November
Photo: TOM REEL
My fiancé and I have lived in the Alamo City for a little over two months. We drove here from Chicago, our one-bedroom apartment packed in the U-Haul behind us.
Before that, I did a stint in Omaha, Nebraska and went to college in Arizona. My family lived in Minnesota until I was 10, when we moved to Northern California, which I still consider home.
Now on my sixth state, it never ceases to amaze what you pick up on in just a few short weeks. And San Antonio, you've been full of surprises. Here's a sampling.
Describing food as "Tex Mex" is not an insult here.
In every other place I've lived, Tex Mex was synonymous with "inauthentic." It was greasy, late-night drunk food and nothing more.
San Antonio has taught me that so many Mexican dishes from my past are, in fact, Tex Mex. Those nachos? Tex Mex. Hard shell beef tacos? Tex Mex. Basically any taco, tostada or taquito with cheese? It was all Tex Mex all along! This city, in such a proud and genuine way, embraces the phrase and knocks the cuisine out of the park. Case in point: Puffy tacos.
WTH are these freeways?
Why, when you merge onto (insert freeway) does it turn out to actually be (insert 16 other freeways)? It's utter madness. I have learned to love the Google Maps "Avoid Highways" feature and say a little prayer before the on-ramp. Frontage roads, however, are glorious and almost make up for the mayhem. Almost.
Two words: Good people.
Not the population as a whole – although I've also found this to be true. I'm talking about the Midwestern phrase used to describe an individual who, you can tell immediately, has a solid character. To use it in a sentence: "That guy Bob is good people."
Bob would, for example, meet you at a bar and then invite you to Thanksgiving because he knows you don't have family in town. He'd lend you his truck for an IKEA return. He'd walk with you to the restaurant after you ask for directions, just to make sure you get there OK. He'd research apartments, prices and neighborhoods on your behalf because you know nothing about the city.
True stories.
One grocery store to rule them all.
The grocery monopoly that is H-E-B is utterly fascinating. On the surface, it's just weird there aren't more options. But it's deeper than that.
I've never seen a city idolize a grocery brand – give it a place in local pop culture – like San Antonio does H-E-B. The Spurs have a 15-year history of commercials with the brand. A San Antonio teacher made her classroom into a mini H-E-B for a lesson. One couple, who fell in love at the grocery chain, threw an H-E-B themed party for their daughter.
We frequent the two-story "escalator" H-E-B on Nogalitos. It gets the job done.
Ice houses are basically outdoor dive bars.
My fiancé and I are but humble dive bar folk. Something about Chicago winters makes you want to belly up to cozy corner spot, with a good midday drink special, and chat about how crappy the weather is. Needless to say, we have very quickly embraced the Ice House. It's everything good about your standard dive, but you can actually sit out in the elements. Cheers to that, San Antonio.
Randi Stevenson is the Executive Producer of ExpressNews.com and mySA.com.


Retro-inspired with contemporary technical details, the Ryval Performance Full Length Tight by Splits59 feature mesh panel bands at calves, color blocked panels at lower legs, and flat lock seams that resist chafe. Comprised of moisture-wicking, quick-dry fabric, these leggings have a 3" waistband for optimal comfort and unencumbered movement. Stash essentials at the hidden waistband pocket for easy transition from the studio to the street.
My usual size is S but the XS fit me better. The waist fit snugly and stayed put during a big sweaty workout. The look is nice, too -- different than an all-over pattern which isn't flattering on me. The fit from the knee down is tight so the red/black bands really grab the skin. If you look closely at the photos, you'll see the skin "bulges" slightly at the seams -- it doesn't bother me but it would have been better if that area was more elastic. But that's a minor point. Overall, the tights are cool.
The fabric is soft to the touch. It is also form fitting. I love them. It is comparable to running around in PJs. You must have average to thin calves. The mesh insert on the calves has little give.
These are really cute but they are tight! I would say size up for certain! Not meant for running . More of yoga and gym pant. Super cute design though.


text:
Would Alexander McQueen Have Been Able to Afford Fashion School Today?
By Erika Adams Jun 5, 2014, 5:50pm EDT
Share All sharing options for: Would Alexander McQueen Have Been Able to Afford Fashion School Today?
Image via The Guardian
It's no secret that institutions of higher education, fashion or otherwise, saddle their students with tear-enducing amounts of debt. On top of that, finding a job after graduation isn't getting any easier. However, as Suzy Menkes points out in her latest article for Vogue, the staggering amount of debt that fashion students are forced to take on has gotten so bad across the globe that the next generation of fashion wunderkinds might be forced to call it quits before they even begin.
Menkes speculates that Alexander McQueen, son of a British taxi driver, would probably not have been able to make it through Central Saint Martins in 2014. She also recounted a conversation with the late CSM fashion design professor, Louise Wilson, who partially placed the blame on the rise of foreign student enrollment:
"With her familiar expletives peppering the conversation, Louise railed against the influx of foreign students, helpful for paying the college bills, but too timid, too founded in their own culture and language, for their professor to be able to cut them down brutally—and then watch them flower."
On the other hand, the pressure to obtain at least an undergraduate degree in the design field is still just as intense. In America, the Academy of Art University in San Francisco is the largest private art and design school in the United States. Its current enrollment stands at 18,000 undergrad and grad students, but the school hopes to expand to 100,000 students within the next five years.
The expansion is largely expected to come from their online degree program, where the lower costs per course are meant to offset the skyrocketing costs of attending a brick-and-mortar university. Despite the more accessible price, Menkes wonders if the quality of an online education will match the training that students get in the classroom. "So here is the BIG question," Menkes writes. "Can the computer cut the cost of fashion schooling and create a virtual studio in a 21st century world—in an industry where touch and feel are as crucial as the look?"
· Crisis in college [Vogue Brazil]
· Eva Chen's Five Rules for Getting Hired [Racked]
· Career Advice from Teen Vogue EIC: Stick to Digital [Racked]


The campaign includes national and regional radio advertising, video and digital advertising on video on demand and social media, outdoor posters, as well as lots of interviews and independent media coverage. Everything encourages adults who have difficulty with reading, writing, maths or technology to contact a Freephone support line 1800 20 20 65 to get the help they need. Once they make contact the National Adult Literacy Agency will put them in contact with their local ETB Adult Education Centre or tell them about other free services that will meet their needs. There is also a campaign website www.takethefirststep.ie with more information.
The Take the first step advertising campaign centres around four people sharing their stories through a variety of media channels. The content and message of each individual's story focused on the benefits of returning to further education, as well as demonstrating that this issue is not confined to any particular demographic segment.
The aim is to promote individuals who had addressed their literacy difficulty with the objective of encouraging others to reap the rewards by doing the same. The primary call to action in the campaign is: Free, Confidential, Not alone and Take the first step.The campaign will be launched to celebrate International Literacy Day on Friday 7 September. It will run for three weeks.
This year we produced wonderful videos of learners talking about how returning to education in their local ETB has changed their lives. We have no doubt that these stories will encourage other people who are considering returning to education to take the first step and call us.
We would be very grateful if you would support the campaign and share the videos above with your colleagues and contacts.
The campaign is managed by the National Adult Literacy Agency (NALA) and SOLAS, the State Further Education and Training Authority, with support from Education and Training Boards Ireland (ETBI). Adult Literacy is co-funded by the Irish Government and the European Social Fund (ESF) as part of the Programme for Employability, Inclusion and Learning 2014-2020.


Can the software be brought for someone else?
My friend owes me some cash and this will be an ideal way for him to pay me, is it ok for him to buy the software for me?
After purchase, please tell your friend to send us an email to let us know he wants you to be the owner. We will record you as the owner so that you could receive all updates etc.


Custom glass products for domestic and commercial applications.
Competitive pricing and highest quality.
Our custom made colour back glass splashbacks are available in a huge range of colours, textures and patterns to suit your style. We offer a free on-site quote and colour consultation, bringing all our samples to you, so you can make the right decision on colour in your own space.
Our splashback range includes over 500 standard solid colours, metallic and pearl paints, custom patterns and designs, matte finish and textured glass, mirror splashbacks and digital printing. We can colour match any paint brand, or work with you to create a new design.
Our painted glass products can be used for bathroom and shower walls and floors, providing an excellent alternative to tiles. No grout and a smooth finish makes cleaning simple. Glass floors are treated with an anti-slip coating, and all areas are sealed with anti-fungal silicone so mould will never be an issue.
Metallic Paint on Super Clear glass walls and Marbled Metallic Paint on Matte Finish glass floor.
Our frameless screens are custom made to fit your space, and available with a range of fixtures to match your style.
All mirrors are custom made to measure, available in any size or shape, with a variety of edge finishes.
Custom made silver mirrors on front of bathroom cabinetry.
Our glass can be used in a number of commercial applications to suit a range of businesses. From signage to cabinets and mirrors, our glass is durable and functional, and all custom made to suit your needs and style.
Sometimes our clients want something really unique. This makes us very happy.
Digitally printed glass and toughened grey mirror cover the entire wall surface in this amazing bathroom project.


text:
Spice Island Madagascar
North and Surroundings
East and Surroundings
South and Surroundings
West and Surroundings
Overview driving times
Tour examples
Excursions for AIDA travelers
Desert Adventure (18 days)
Honeymoon with luxury hotels
From the north to the west (20 days)
From the south to the east (18 days)
National parks and reservesNorth and SurroundingsTsaratanana National Park
Tsaratanana National Park
Posted on 23. April 2018 23. April 2018 by Lemur Tours
When biologists make their way to search for new species, the name Tsaratanana National Park often falls on Madagascar. For example, two new species of leaf-tail geckos have been discovered on the slopes of the Tsaratanana mountain range. This region on the "Red Island" in the Indian Ocean is characterized by an unusual density of endemic individuals – and that is why this National Park is of great importance, above all for scientists.
The Tsaratanana National Park in Madagascar is covered by a tropical rainforest and spreads over 486 square kilometers. It is located some 60 miles north of the small village of Bealanana and reaches the summit of Maromokotra to a height of 2,876 meters . Anyone who believes himself to be a scientist and has a good physical condition can go with care of local guides and climb the volcanic massif.
Several endangered species are to be observed with a little luck in the national park with its numerous rivers, brooks, thermal baths and waterfalls. Among them are only eleven different species of lemurs. Extremely rare are the black lemur and the forked lemur. Tsaratanana is also an Eldorado for ornithologists , because among the almost one hundred different species of birds are the rare Short-toed Eagle, the Sunbird, Red Owl, Crested Ibis and the ground roller.
Up to altitudes of two thousand meters, a dense rainforest with palisander, ebony and palm trees can be found. Above, the bamboo forests is eventually replaced by a mountain forest and then a grassland made of grass. The unique flora and fauna on the slopes of the towering mountain can be reached from the north and the south. The southwestern entrance to the park leads from Ambanja to Marotolona and finally to Beangona Ambevy.
The roads in the rainforest in Madagascar are only passable during the dry period between June and November. For tourists the national park is not open so far. Therefore, there is no infrastructure within the area.
– various rare lemur species
– different species of birds
– hiking shoes or trekking shoes
– enough liquid
– sunscreen
Only as a scientist is access possible
Hiking on Madagascar
Zombitse-Vohibasia National Park
Andrigitra National Park
Posted in North and Surroundings
Imprint and privacy| Copyright © 2016-2019 Lemur Tours | Contact
-- PROPOSITION DES INFORMATIONS SUR L'HÔTEL --
Diese Website benutzt Cookies. Wenn Sie die Website weiter nutzen, gehen wir von Ihrem Einverständnis aus.OKNo


text:
Equals3
research, party, 593000, data, targetsmart, company, information, alaska, exposed, voter, plan, breach, records, using, democrats, democratic, security, alaskan
Title Democrats plan to keep using company that exposed 593,000 Alaskan voter records
Source URL http://www.ktuu.com/content/news/Around-593000-Alaskan-voter-records-exposed-online-Democrats-plan-to-use-same-data-company-444527993.html
Text A database of approximately 593,000 Alaska voter records has been exposed online.
TargetSmart, the company that owns the data, claims that it was not accessed by anyone other than the security researchers on their team and the team that identified the exposure.
Tom Bonier, the Chief Executive Officer of TargetSmart, confirmed the breach and said in a statement that Equals3, a software company based in Minnesota, "Appears to have failed to secure some of their data and some data they license from TargetSmart."
"None of the exposed TargetSmart data included any personally-identifiable non-public financial data," said Bonier.
Equals3 CEO Dan Mallin said, "Yesterday, a security researcher who specifically looks for vulnerabilities like this gained unauthorized access to the records of 20 Alaskans. No other records were accessed by any other individuals and we immediately shut down access to the data."
Mallin said a short while ago that Equals3, "Immediately shut down the server and contacted a third-party security firm to execute an intrusion test."
When asked whether Equals3 would continue working with TargetSmart, Mallin said: "TargetSmart is a valued partner and we worked hand-in-hand to ensure swift resolution."
Bonier spoke about the obligations of third-parties with data: "TargetSmart imposes strict contractual obligations on its clients regarding how TargetSmart data must be stored and secured, and takes these obligations seriously," said Bonier.
Jospehine H. Bahnke, the director of Alaska Division of Elections, says this was not a breach of the Alaska voter registration database: "It was a breach of a private research company's system which leveraged the public information provided in voter lists with other information it was collecting from other sources. We have not heard from the research folks or anyone on this subject directly. That said, as was reported the site is no longer up, and state resources are investigating the matter," said Bahnke.
Jay Parmley, the executive director of the Alaska Democratic Party, confirms it has used TargetSmart as a data vendor for "several years" through their affiliation with the Association of State Democratic Chairs.
"We might use them to understand the electorate by purchasing or matching data if you will. It could be a list, it could be a segment of voters, the voter file itself, all the registered voters - It's pretty much a data enhancement," said Parmley.
Some of the data TargetSmart matches with the Alaska Democratic Party includes phone numbers and addresses but it can also include household incomes.
Parmley explains the data has to be publicly available through organizations such as the Division of Elections or available in the common market.
Household income is self-reported, often through online surveys that are unrelated to politics, and then sold to companies like TargetSmart, Parmley said.
"That's why you need to read the fine print, it could be sold by that vendor. They disclose that to you by really small print at the bottom of the page," Parmley said.
Parmley said he was set to speak to TargetSmart about the breach but the Alaska Democratic Party would "absolutely" work with them again.
"We have had the highest of confidence in their ability and quite frankly in their data integrity and any breach like the one that happened today, would be the first time we've seen this happened," said Parmley.
"We take people's private information extraordinarily safely," said Parmley.
Parmley described that the purpose of the data is often to campaign more efficiently by not sending information to people who never vote.
Meanwhile, Josh Walton, the Executive Director of the Alaska Republican Party, says they do not contract with TargetSmart but get their voter information through the Republican National Committee.
Walton says he understands the RNC compiles their information in-house.
KTUU reached out to the security research firm which is believed to have discovered the breach, it has not immediately responded for comment.
Democrats plan to keep using company that exposed 593,000 Alaskan voter records (www.ktuu.com-content-news-Around-593000-Alaskan-voter-records-exposed-online-Democrats-plan-to-use-same-data-company-444527993.html.html)


Kuck Mechanical is an industrial mechanical contractor that has completed a wide variety of complex custom projects. Check out some of our best work below, just click on the image to learn more about these jobs.
Click through the gallery below to learn more about our past projects!


text:
Destiny's Child stage costumes go up for auction
Los Angeles Published: Mar 30, 2021, 08:54 AM(IST)
File image of Destiny's Child Photograph:( Reuters )
Julien`s Auctions said on Monday that it was selling more than 100 lots of costumes owned and used by Destiny`s Child members Beyonce, Kelly Rowland and Michelle Williams during the late 1990s and early 2000`s.
Stage costumes worn by pop group Destiny`s Child at the height of their fame are hitting the auction block in June, along with gowns belonging to Lady Gaga, Whitney Houston and Cher.
The outfits include the coordinating gold leather costumes worn by the three "Survivor" singers during a VH1 television tribute to Diana Ross in 2000, and the trio of futuristic metallic red and silver leather jumpsuits the women wore in their "Independent Women Part 1" music video that was the theme song for the 2000 movie "Charlie`s Angels."
"These three outfits are so iconic and represent such an important song," said Martin Nolan, executive director of Julien`s Auctions.
The dozens of costumes, most of which were designed by Beyonce`s mother Tina Knowles Lawson, are expected to fetch between $600 and $10,000 each at the three-day auction in Beverly Hills on June 11-13.
Julien`s said the outfits were donated by the families of the Destiny`s Child singers after spending years in storage. A portion of the proceeds will benefit MusiCares, the charitable arm of the Recording Academy that has helped musicians who are struggling because of the coronavirus pandemic.
Destiny`s Child, one of the most influential female groups of early 2000s, went through several lineups and officially split in 2006. Beyonce went on to forge a huge solo career.
Other items up for sale in June include an Atelier Versace gold gossamer gown worn by the late Whitney Houston for a performance in Paris in July 1998 (estimated at $20,000 - $30,000), and the net bodysuit and motorcycle jacket outfit worn by Cher in the 1989 music video for "If I Could Turn Back Time" that last sold at auction five years ago for $60,000.
Brad Pitt, Lykke Li are just 'artsy friends', not dating, claim sources
Ed Sheeran is UK's highest tax-paying celebrity, the Beckhams are a close second


text:
The boys of summer
Photographed junior varsity baseball at Floyd County High School Tuesday afternoon. The boys of summer at play.
Like many young men of my generation, I worshipped baseball. Had a transistor radio clipped to the basket of my bike and would pedal up to a hillside after delivering papers in Farmville, Virginia, to listen to the New York Yankees. Mickey Mantle, Roger Maris. Richmond's Triple-A club at the time was a Yankees farm team and, once a year, the Yanks would come to Richmond to play.
Also played Little League ball. Third base. Typical suburban kid's dream.
Then we moved to Floyd County. No Little League here at the time. My ball glove, bat and Yankees cap went into the closet, never to be used again. Baseball became a forgotten sport, part of a life that no longer existed, lost amid the crunch of football, the rush of basketball and the roar of stock car racing.
In 1985, while working in Washington, a friend talked me into joining a softball team that played in Arlington. Bought a new glove, some cleats and worked the kinks out of what was then a 38-year-old body. Got a hit in the first inning of the first game. Tried to score from third on slow grounder. Collided with the catcher. Broke my left arm and dislocated my shoulder. Sat out the summer and never played again.
That arm and shoulder still ache when the weather turns cold or wet but I put both to use Tuesday focusing my lenses on kids who play the game better than I ever could. Like so many of today's youth, the FCHS players are stronger, faster and more proficient at the game.
But as I sat at my computer screen that night and edited the photos that would go to The Floyd Press for next week's edition my mind went back to a Little League Field in Farmville and a kid who loved the game. Amy walked into the room at that time, stopped, and asked: "Honey, are you crying?"
"No," I said. "Just my damn allergies."
Scott	on April 21, 2005 at 5:07 pm
I love watching the kids I coach discover the game that I have loved for so long. Thanks for stirring up more great memories.


text:
Feb 11, 2016, 08:39AM
Hillary Clinton Is the Democrats' Mitt Romney
Nicky Smith
But liberals will suck it up and settle for HRC when the time comes.
The results of the New Hampshire primary were exactly what we wanted after six months of insanity that built gradually: over the summer, Bernie Sanders was packing arenas while ignored by the media, and Donald Trump dismissed John McCain's status as a war hero "because he was captured"—a remark that would've ended anybody else's campaign and career. Countless more eye-popping and gut-busting insults followed—Megyn Kelly: menstruating; Carly Fiorina: ugly! (Rand Paul, too); Barack Obama: Muslim; Jeb Bush: loser; Ted Cruz: pussy, Canadian (and probably a fag). Throwing a reporter from Telemundo out of a press conference? Mimicking a reporter with cerebral palsy? Love it! Politics is fun! Trump's crass persona is an accurate reflection of our public discourse. Actions speak louder than words, and Trump's repugnant campaign has been a long time coming: Rep. Joe Wilson screamed "You Lie!" at President Obama in 2009. Why has the press and the left been so flummoxed by Trump's success? It's the capstone to 16 years of institutional deceit and disrespect.
Trump's campaign is as much a repudiation of the Bush years as the Obama's tenure. None of his competitors strayed from the safe path of suggesting that Obama is a Muslim and an illegitimate president. Even though Trump parroted the birther movement nonsense, he's a true believer only in himself, and it'll only take one cocktail party or gala event to come out in favor of LGBTQ rights. Ted Cruz and the rest of the candidates are hacks, throwing the God horseshit against the wall and hoping it sticks. Every firm Sanders supporter shouldn't be scared of Trump—he's amenable to compromise and dialogue. But if a Cruz, Marco Rubio or even a John Kasich (portrayed as a moderate although he's viciously homophobic and anti-Planned Parenthood) gets elected, they'll have Congress behind them, and we'll be back in the doldrums of the Bush years.
My biggest concern is how damaged Hillary Clinton is after the primaries, if she'll erode her support in a war of attrition against passion candidate Sanders. It's not just young people that feel the Bern—Clinton lost every demographic in New Hampshire except people who make $200,000 or more a year. The Bernie vs. Hillary memes being circulated are cementing her as a Romney-esque figure in the minds of Millennials. They're not sexist: Hillary isn't lampooned for her gender; rather, it's her insincerity. Like Mitt Romney, she shifts positions, whatever the issue. That rings hollow in the idealistic ears of left-leaning voters. But there's no way Sanders can carry more than a handful of states in a general election against any of the Republican candidates, especially Trump. Feel the Bern for as long as you want, but get ready to suck it up and vote for Hillary to prevent another dark ages.
—Follow Nicky Smith on Twitter: @MUGGER1992
Older Politics & Media
Libertarian BS and DTs
Hillary Clinton Has to Exile Her Husband from Campaign
Triumph of the Insult
Newer Politics & Media
John Lewis Doesn't Dictate Who Was in the Civil Rights Movement
Fourteen Loves for the 14th
Scalia vs. the Unknown
zkauf1
commented Feb 11, 2016, 09:49AM
Actually almost every poll that's been conducted has Sanders winning against Trump.
Responses to this comment
ErikEssig
Vote for the crook in other words.
Hunchback, Feb 12, 2016, 04:06PM
commented Feb 12, 2016, 04:06PM
I'm confused, Erik. Who's the crook? Trump or Sanders?
C.T. May, Feb 13, 2016, 01:43PM
ErikEssig, Feb 12, 2016, 09:52AM
C.T. May
He means Hillary
jroidshirt
Sanders would defeat Trump. If he faced anyone else he would lose.
Ok, now we know.
Subbeck
Not sure who would win that election, but I'd pay good money to watch Trump debate Sanders.
russ, Feb 14, 2016, 04:52PM
It'll be free.
Subbeck, Feb 14, 2016, 04:24PM


Every website owner is aware that keywords play a major role in the amount of traffic that they receive, but are you taking the necessary steps to make sure that you get as much as possible out of each keyword? Between Google's constant algorithm updates and a shift in public opinion regarding keyword stuffing practices, it may seem harder now than ever to keep your SEO fresh and effective. Fortunately, there are many techniques that you can utilize to do everything from tracking the success of each keyword, to choosing which words to use in the first place.
Take a look at these slides and get some tips and tricks how you can improve your top and bottom line significantly.
How do you get ahead of the competition here in 2015? How can you make sure that the competitors do not overtake you? Here are top 10 marketing trends that will rock 2015.
In spite of the fact that it's difficult to accept that we're only a month and a half into 2014, digital marketing patterns have changed immensely. This year, as the computerized market develops further, the buzz keeps on being around mobile technology, social media and content development and this comes as no surprise for people.
Internet after its evolution has been a prime source of knowledge for everything. One could expect to get any sorts of knowledge as and when required. Practically, internet serves the knowledge base for every group of people. For this reason, more than half of the population across the world can be found "googling" about various topics at a time. Additionally, this number keeps on increasing everyday.
Identifying the core essential elements can help you to build your company's name and branding. You need your unique selling proposition (USP). Here are some questions that can help you to find it.
Look at these Megatrends for 2014 that will affect your business. And why not let Sam Malone and Cheers guide the way.
The customers have the power online. The customers can find the precise same product as you have online a click away. And somewhere out there the customer can find your product cheaper than you can sell it right? So how can you put extra value to your website and to your products? The product and the digital value will make you a better product. A better product for the customers and there for also a better product for you. Maybe you know your own value chain, but do you know your customers value chain?


text:
South Asia Commentary & Analysis
Expert analysis of contemporary economic, political, and social issues in South Asia.
South Asia center
The Pakistani courts strike back
The historic sentencing in December of former dictator and president Pervez Musharraf was a blow to the military's image and directly questions its unequivocal authority over shaping Pakistan's political life—even if it is only symbolic. In a rare streak of defiance, the country's courts are pushing back against a traditionally powerful and popular establishment hoping to inch the country from a seemingly illiberal to a more liberal democracy.
New Atlanticist by Fatima Salman
Democratic Transitions Pakistan
Could the United States and India find a path to collaborate on China trade?
So why shouldn't the Trump administration consider expanding its bilateral trade cooperation with India to initiate joint efforts on China, which could parallel existing efforts with the EU and Japan and possibly merge with them over time? Might this approach even lead to a new plurilateral negotiation in the World Trade Organization (WTO) that positions it as the most likely venue for tackling Chinese practices over the longer term?
New Atlanticist by Mark Linscott
Don't let tech policy disrupt the US-India trade deal
Yet as negotiators prepare for the final stage of the talks, India's efforts to advance three new tech policies could emerge as a potential spoiler. Preventing a downward spiral in bilateral trade relations will require India to tread cautiously in its approach to tech policy and delay new measures that would disrupt a trade deal.
New Atlanticist by Anand Raghuraman
India Trade
All Commentary and Analysis
The United States must end its contradictory Pakistan policy
Washington has a long history of tacitly supporting the Pakistan Army's unrivaled political power while publicly espousing the ideals of democracy and political pluralism. Such doublespeak only enables corrupt and unaccountable segments of the political and security establishments in Pakistan. It also impedes the United States from achieving its regional goals of democracy promotion and counterterrorism.
New Atlanticist by Harris Samad
Younus in his podcast "Pakistonomy," Episode 1: Khurram Husain
Economy & Business Inclusive Growth
Shaping the global future together: the Council's "Top fifteen hits" of 2019
We look back at the Atlantic Council's top work of 2019 galvanizing US leadership alongside partners and allies to tackle the most pressing challenges confronting our nation and our world.
New Atlanticist by Frederick Kempe
Africa Americas
Wed, Dec 11, 2019
US-India relationship is "moving from the era of ambitions to the era of achievements"
Sixty years after US President Dwight D. Eisenhower traveled to India to mark the beginning of the US-Indian relationship, the close ties between Delhi and Washington today "would scarcely be recognizable to Eisenhower's contemporaries," Ambassador Alice Wells, US acting assistant secretary of state for South and Central Asia, said on December 11.
India Politics & Diplomacy
Afghanistan at a crossroads
After decades of conflict, today there is at least a prospect that a path to peace in Afghanistan might be opened. At the same time, it seems that once again the country is at a crossroads, with its future to be determined by decisions that will be taken in the coming weeks by Afghans, their partners, and their adversaries. Those decisions can set the stage for further success in the hard struggle of the Afghan people and their elected leaders for the better future they are striving for.
New Atlanticist by James B. Cunningham
Afghanistan Conflict
Thu, Nov 7, 2019
The United States cannot repeat its Syria withdrawal mistake in Afghanistan
President Trump's sudden withdrawal has opened opportunities for rival powers to exert greater influence in the Middle East and in Afghanistan. Russia and China are swooping in with strategic poise, while Trump's approach amounts to letting others "fight a little bit." This is not US leadership, nor will it make the United States safer in an increasingly complex world.
Kashmir is driving Pakistan's mediation efforts between Tehran and Riyadh
From Imran Khan's perspective, the issue of Kashmir has not attracted enough international attention. Mediating de-escalation in the Persian Gulf could strengthen his ability to bring more attention to that crisis too.
IranSource by Fatemeh Aman
India Iran


Hi, just wondering when the updates were or if there is a specific update page someone could help me find haha !
Anyone play the forest here? I think Dwelves should incorporate what they do for updates, add a countdown, then when it's updated, put the changelog on the main page.
Rasmus Wrote: It depends, the goal is of course to make one update a week, these updates will probably include bugfixes and some minor new features. When a bigger feature is introduced then it may take two weeks, and if we are talking about including features like the surface world or multiplayer it may take up to a month. But either way we will always keep everyone updated with what's going on between these updates in form of news and discussions. When introducing a new feature I usually present my idea at the forums to get some feedback as well.
We're trying to keep deadlines, but having so small team we need to decide on what we need to spend time on - game or some more info. Sometimes it's difficult to handle it, but we're working on it.


Muscular pain that manifests itself just above the hips and runs up your sides is generally referred to as Lateral Muscular Back Pain. In the context of this article, the pain we are considering comes primarily from standing and/or walking for long periods of time during the day and is a result of the muscles becoming tired.
Many of us will experience some type of back pain, it's a common ailment and one that globally costs many £millions in lost earnings. Research by HappyFeet has found is that when standing, most people lean slightly forward. This posture puts undue stress on the hips and lower back. In essence the muscles in your back are working to support your weight rather than your spine. If your posture can be slightly re-aligned, you will stand upright, thus relieving pressure from hip and lower back muscles.
HappyFeet Massaging Insoles exert gentle upward pressure on the arch of your foot causing your foot to rock slightly forward. This motion pulls your calf with it resulting in a forward rotation of the pelvis helping to realign the spine straight up and down. In this re-aligned posture, the weight of your upper body is supported by the spine rather than the muscles of the hip and lower back. Better posture enables you to stand, walk or work for long periods of time with little or no pain. For many people the pain relief is immediate!.
It is also worth noting that the forward rotation of the pelvis has been shown to help people with Sciatic Nerve issues and assists in the relief or elimination of other causes of hip pain.
Knee pain occurs when the ankle or foot excessively flexes inward or the arch flattens too much. This leads to unstable posture and places additional stress on the medial (inside) of your foot when walking or running. The body over compensates from the lack of stability in the foot giving a slight twist to knee.
Your knees and lower back absorb the shock, causing pain in the lower back and knees caused by added stress to the improperly aligned tendons and muscles. Your shin bone becomes misaligned when your foot improperly settles in the longitudinal arch. This misalignment continues up to the spinal column, causing discomfort to the knees, hips, legs, lower back and upper back.
Targeted Treatment for Knee Pain through the use of HappyFeet insoles will help align your feet into their proper positions.


Amber Patterson watches Daphne Parrish in the gym everyday. Some might say she wants to be Daphne Parrish, or that she wants Daphne Parrish's life. Whilst both of those things may be true, Amber wants not to be Daphne Parrish, per see, but she definitely wants to be Mrs. Parrish.
Amber wants Daphne's husband, Jackson Parrish, and she won't stop until she gets him.
Amber is clever, comes across a sweet girl, perhaps a little naive. She ingrains herself into the Parrish's life quickly, becoming best friend and confidant to Daphne, and a welcome distraction for Jackson.
With her sights firmly set on Jackson she goes out of her way to make him notice her, but so subtly that no one around them notices.
Soon enough the pair are embarking on an affair, but Amber knows she must be careful if she is to truly ensnare Jackson in the tangled web she weaves.
But Daphne Parrish is no fool, and she won't be taken by one for anybody. Amber may well have underestimated her rival, but is it too late for Daphne to save her marriage? And does she even want to?
Split into Daphne's and Amber's perspectives, the last Mrs. Parrish is a novel that will have you taking a sharp intake of breath at a certain point, because no matter what you thought was going to happen... you will still be suprised!
The Last Mrs. Parrish is available now via Amazon online and all good book shops.


Roma's Pizza Subs & Pasta is currently located at 5325 Phelps Luck Dr, Columbia, MD 21045. Order your favorite pizza, pasta, salad, and more, all with the click of a button. Roma's Pizza Subs & Pasta accepts orders online for pickup and delivery.


text:
Events in George Q. Cannon's journal for 1880
Attached newspaper clippings, such as about the Ladies' Anti-Polygamy Society of Utah, that showed "falsehoods now being put in circulation against us"
Cannon's low opinion of members of Congress, whose "proceedings of yesterday and to-day are altogether unworthy of a deliberative body of barbarians"
Sat between two former Confederate colonels who told of low Northern morals
A report of the Chicago convention "reads like a description of a scene from the reign of terror during the French Revolution."
The Lord "has been my comfort and support here, . . . my rock of refuge."
"Our enemies have been . . . threatening considerably what they would do to secure the delegateship of the Territory."
View of Reverend Mr. Newman, whose portrait would be "a picture of lechery and hypocrisy"
"One of my teeth in front was a little loose and the gum at the root was inflamed and sore. I went to a dentist . . . who bored a hole in it . . . to let out the gas at the root."
Inserted newspaper article: "Delegate Cannon's Seat in Danger"
Journal, 1880
George Q. Cannon, Journal, 1 Jan.–20 June and 22 Sept.–31 Dec. 1880; 149 inscribed journal pages and 10 inscribed pages of financial accounts and miscellaneous notes; Church History Library, Salt Lake City.
Pocket-size journal, measuring 5⅞ × 3 × ¾ inches (15 × 8 × 2 cm). The journal was published as an "Excelsior" journal for the year 1880. The front matter of the journal provides printed reference information, such as a calendar, postage rates, and state populations. Each page of the journal itself has a header containing the name of the month, the day of the week, and the year; three pink lines provide a border for the header, two lines above it and one below. Below the header, each page is lined with twenty-six blue lines.
The journal has a dark red leather cover, an overlapping flap, and a built-in pocket at the back of the volume for loose papers; the pocket still contains pages of draft letters and financial notations. The flap has a round strip of leather to hold a pen or pencil. The inside covers have gray pastedowns. The inside front cover has "73c" written in graphite and a notation in ink: "Geo. Q. Cannon's | Diary | Washington City, | D.C." At a later point, a small red-bordered archival label was pasted to the upper left corner of the cover. In black ink, the label reads: "No. 13 | G.Q.C. Journal | 1880. | Washington | & Utah."
The journal begins on 1 January 1880, and entries were made fairly consistently thereafter through 20 June. The journal has entries for 22–24 September. Entries resumed on 29 September, continuing through 5 November, with a few missing entries. Entries appear for 28 November through the end of the year. Newspaper articles and other papers are tipped into the journal at various points. Ten pages of financial accounts and miscellaneous notes appear at the back of the volume.
In 1932, Sylvester Q. Cannon, who was then acting as the Presiding Bishop of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, donated George Q. Cannon's journals to the First Presidency. The First Presidency transferred the journals to the Church History Department in late 2008.
1 January 1880 • Thursday
The day was spent on the cars nothing of importance occurring to make it eventful. As I had a lunch basket with me, a precaution I thought necessary at this season of the year, I did not even eat the New Year's dinner at a way station.
2 January 1880 • Friday
Reached Omaha on time. I took passage for Chicago on the C. & R. I. R.R. who had put on Pullman's sleepers for the first time yesterday in place of their own. Enjoyed my evening meal on the Dining car, having had only a light breakfast and no dinner.
3 January 1880 • Saturday
Rained heavily through the night and to-day. Reached Chicago on time. Sent my baggage to the Baltimore & Ohio R.R. Depot and went to the Grand Pacific Hotel where I had a bath and took dinner. Started for Washington at 9.40 p.m.
4 January 1880 • Sunday
Had for fellow-passengers, Col. G. L. Fort and wife, of Ill., Mr. Davis of Chicago, Mr. Washburn of Minn. – all Members of the House – also Gen. Belknap, Grant's Sec. of War, and late at Newark Col. Rodgers, Private Sec. of Pres. Hayes, with whom I had an interesting conversation concerning our affairs.
5 January 1880 • Monday
Reached Washington at 7.50 this morning. As I had telegraphed my wife when I would be due, she sent the colored boy to meet me and carry my valise. I was very glad to see my wife and two daughters, Mary Alice and Emily, and they were rejoiced to see me. My wife's health has improved a little, though I did not think her so well as I hoped to find her. I felt very fatigued with my journey. I had traveled 2,400 miles to reach home and the same distance to return, with a six days stop at-home, during which time I was so busy that I did not have any rest. This caused me to feel more tired to-day than I ever remembered being from the same journey before.
6 January 1880 • Tuesday
The House met at 12 M. to-day. The morning hour was occupied by reports of Committees. Nothing else of any moment was done.
I wrote to Bro. B. F. Cummings, Jr., at Boston, respecting coming here to stay with me to assist me, President Taylor having spoken to me upon the subject.
I also wrote to Bro. W. W. Riter.
To show the character of the falsehoods now being put in circulation against us I clip the following Salt Lake dispatch to the N. Y. Herald from its columns: I scarcely need add that all said about division has not even a shadow of truth.
DEFIANT MORMONS.
(by telegraph to the herald.)
Salt Lake City, Utah, Jan. 5, 1880.
The new Mormon Tabernacle, which has been three years in course of erection, was opened on Saturday by the Saints in a Conference which continued till yesterday afternoon, during which the supporting priesthood renewed their covenants to preserve the faith, instructions and fame of the Church. Before the close of the services Apostle President Taylor attacked the enemies of polygamy, severely censuring the nation for opposition to the choice institution of Mormonism, which, he maintained, was a divine institution, saying the Lord had told him so and made him become a polygamist. Now he wanted to see whether Heaven or Uncle Sam was going to prevail; for his part he was going to stick to the Lord. He insisted that polygamy was the true exercise of the Latter Day faith, and defied the United States to abolish it. He averred that no nation on earth could prevent it, nor all the nations combined. The tabernacle was crowded. He called for an expression from the audience, which embraced five thousand people at least, asking them to raise their right hands before God if they sympathized with him in his defiance of governmental interference. The enthusiasm was intense. All hands but one went up. Mothers even lifted aloft the hands of their children. Apostle Joseph T. Smith followed, speaking in the same strain and exhibiting the same defiant attitude. The whole affair now simmers down to the question, Shall President Hayes and Congress submit to this impudent bluff, or shall they advance with civilization and sweep off this foul blot of barbarism from the domain of the United States?
quarrels among the apostles.
Delegate Cannon seems to have accomplished little with his associate apostles, for they are as defiant as ever. Before he left for Washington he said to a gentleman here that he was satisfied that either polygamy must go or that the Mormons had to go. The Delegate is in an awkward position and he realizes it. He has to speak sense among sensible men in Washington, while his apostle chief indulges here in rebellious rubbish. There has been current here for two weeks a report that the apostles were seriously divided on general church policy, and that Delegate Cannon was called from Washington to take part in an important deliberation. The chief apostle wants to step into Brigham Young's shoes, and be President, Prophet, Seer and Revelator of the whole Church. Apostle Smith claims that as the nephew of the founder of Mormonism he is entitled to the highest position. Apostle Orson Pratt claims that he is the oldest apostle, and that Taylor is only at the head because Brigham had a grudge against him, Pratt. They are in a nice muddle.
utah politics.
The political caldron is also agitated over the meeting of Congress. It is understood here that Secretary Sherman advances Ewing for Governor, in place of Emery, with the view of working up delegates to the National Republican Convention. The soldier element favors a third term for the ex-President; but the active republicans under Tribune tuition are for Blaine.
[End of clipping]
[A second clipping in a different font]
Delegate Cannon, of Utah, is more to be pitied than any other man in Congress. He goes to Utah, hears a lot of insane twaddle from a crowd of polygamous howlers who have not talked with reasonable men for a quarter of a century, then he returns to Washington, takes his seat in the House among other intelligent beings, and is as utterly unable to represent his Territory to her material or moral benefit as if he were at the South Pole.
7 January 1880 • Wednesday
Reports of Committees occupied the attention of the House to-day. Had an interesting talk with Judge Jacob Ambler of Ohio, who I with whom I became acquainted when he was a Member of the 42nd Congress. He was opposed to and voted against the Cullom bill and was always in favor of our receiving fair treatment. He declined to come to Congress. The life did not suit him. He felt that it was to some extent a sacrifice of his independence.
I clip the following from the Washington correspondence of the New York Herald:
Washington, Jan. 6, 1880.
anti-polygamy ladies of utah moving
against delegate cannon.
The Ladies' Anti-Polygamy society of Utah, an organized association of ladies designed to aid in the suppression of polygamy, have sent here for presentation to the House of Representatives a memorial asking the expulsion of George Q. Cannon, the Territorial Delegate from Utah. It gives the number of his wives at four, their names, and the number of children each has, the aggregate being about twenty. A Mrs. Cook, formerly a Mormon, leads as president of the society, and Mrs. Chislett, a former member of the Church, is secretary. The remainder of the officers are mostly Gentile ladies, among them Mrs. Hallister, sister of Schuyler Colfax. The society is
The House after the morning hour discussed the new rules. The following Memorial from the anti-polygamy society at Salt Lake City was sent to each of the Members of Congress. McBride and Merritt, lawyers from Salt Lake City, one an ex-Member from Oregon, the other an ex-Delegate from Idaho, were on the floor of the House to-day. Gov. Emery was also there. I received the pleasing news this evening of the birth of a daughter on New Year's day, my wife Martha having been safely delivered on that day. My wife Sarah Jane and my daughter Hester both wrote me, letters which I was very glad to receive.
[Attached clipping]
MEMORIAL.
To the Honorable the House of Representatives of the Congress of the United States:
Your petitioners, the Woman's Anti-Polygamy Society of Utah, respectfully ask that George Q. Cannon, delegate from this Territory, be expelled from your Honorable body, for the following reasons:
He is one of the Twelve Apostles of the Mormon Church, an organization which politically dominates the Territory of Utah, and which claims to be above the laws of the country.
He and his fellow apostles have long taught and practiced polygamy in contravention of an act of Congress which makes it a felony.
Until within a year he has pretended to believe the anti-polygamy law unconstitutional, and has given that as one reason for disregarding it. Now that the Supreme Court has decided it to be constitutional, he still disobeys it, continuing to defy the national authority.
Although he promised in his published utterance in Washington to use his influence with his followers to discontinue the shameful practice, if past offenses were condoned, he afterwards came to Salt Lake and not only urged polygamy upon his hearers in the Mormon Tabernacle, but recommended that they marry wives in pairs.
He has repeatedly promulgated it in his sermons or addresses to the Mormons, and as editor of the Deseret News, (which position he lately resigned) he published it continually.
George Q. Cannon was elected to Congress because he is one of the ablest and most strenuous upholders of this disgraceful institution. He is now serving his fourth term. His presence in Washington among the national law-makers is a great encouragement to his fellow polygamists, and his repeated re-election to such a high and honorable position is in pursuance of a threat made by the late Brigham Young, that he would "thrust polygamy down the throats of the American people."
George Q. Cannon is married to four wives, although he cowardly denied it before a committee of a former House, lives with them openly and introduces them as such. Their names and the number of their children are as follows:
First wife, Elizabeth Hoagland Cannon has six children, four sons and two daughters.
Second wife, Sarah Jane Jenny, has four sons and one daughter.
Third wife, Eliza Tinney, has two children, boys.
Fourth wife, Martha Tilley, has five children, twin girls and three boys.
Your petitioners would further represent that the flood of petitions presented to the last Congress from all parts of our beloved country, asking for legislation for the suppression of polygamy, the attention paid to the subject by Secretary Evarts in his circular to our Ministers at foreign courts, the recommendation of the President in his late message, and the general tone of the press in discussing the question, all indicate that the time is ripe for the final solution of this Mormon problem. We do not assume too much in saying that the people of the United States look to you for that solution; and that you can commence your work in no more effective manner than by expelling George Q. Cannon from your honorable body.
We would further represent that the law of 1862 needs amending so as to make the continuous living together of men and women in polygamous relations the offense, and not the ceremony of marriage. Our reasons are in part as follows:
The Mormon people enter into these polygamous relations in secret, and the prosecuting officers of the Government find it impossible to procure evidence, because all the participants in, and witnesses of, the ceremony, are sworn to secrecy, and, upon examination, either refuse to testify, or testify falsely. Mormon men are now marrying polygamous wives, frequently girls in their minority, leaving them at home with their parents, and keeping it secret until three years shall have expired, when they will openly acknowledge them, which, in the present state of the law, they can do with impunity. Another way is to marry two women at once, giving precedence to neither.
It should be provided that such proof as would be necessary to establish a civil marriage should be sufficient to establish a polygamous or felonious marriage.
With these amendments to the law the evasions indicated would be impossible, and we believe it would be in the power of the National Government to arrest the further growth of this vile system. We respectfully urge upon your honorable body their early consideration, and as in duty bound your petitioners will ever pray.
The foregoing petition was adopted by the Woman's Anti-Polygamy Society, at a special meeting called for the purpose, December 12th, 1879.
S. A. Cooke, President
M. Chislett, Secretary
Fannie A. S. Allen, First Vice President.
Jennie A. Froiseth, Second Vice President.
Hattie K. Bane, Corresponding Secretary.
M. E. B. Green, Treasurer.
E. M. Fisher,
C. S. Hollister,
L. C. Douglas, Executive Committee.
C. A. Smith,
S. Boukofsky,
M. A. Lloyd.
Private Bill day. House kept in session till 4 p.m. Finished letters to my wives, Sarah Jane and Martha.
10 January 1880 • Saturday
At the Treasury Dep't. Had a call from Miss McDavitt, sister of Mrs. Ketcham, the sculptress. They are going to Iowa, their home. Sent for my bust, which the folks thought an excellent likeness.
11 January 1880 • Sunday
Busy writing on an article for home to-day. In evening called with Elizabeth and children upon Mrs. Ketcham and her sister. Found the former suffering from neuralgia in her body, particularly in her back and bowels.
12 January 1880 • Monday
Met at the Delegates' Com. Room; no quorum present and no business was transacted. Call of the States and Territories for Bills &c. Had a conversation with J. Proctor Knott, Chairman of Com. on Judiciary about Bills against Utah which had been referred to that Com. He said Willets of Mich. would have to be on the sub-Com. to consider these Bills, as he was the introducer of them; but he wanted two Democrats associated with him who would oppose the proposed legislation. We mentioned Culberson and Hurd. He said he would talk with them. He would like to make a speech in <on> my case if <my> expulsion were proposed[.]
Mahope ua nonoi mai ia'u e loan ia ia eha haneri dala no <nalahe> Kanaono. Ua haawi mai oia ia'u i Kana note noua mau haneri dala la, [Afterwards he asked me to loan him four hundred dollars for sixty days. He gave me his note for this amount.]
(This he afterwards paid)
13 January 1880 • Tuesday
Attended meeting of Com. on Ter., no quorum present.
14 January 1880 • Wednesday
Met with two confreres – Dick and of Penn. and Cravens of Ark. – to examine bill referred to us which was introduced by Bennett of Dakota to increase the salary of the Judge of the 1st Dis. in that Ter. $2,500 to be paid by the counties comprising that district. Bennett met with us. I do not like the proposition. Why should Congress be asked to do this, when they have a <local> Legislature which understands the entire case far better than Congress can? I believe in home rule.
15 January 1880 • Thursday
After morning hour discussed the <new> rules. In evening <I> was interviewed by Mr. Morgan of the Baltimore Bulletin. He had been in Utah for some months and was greatly pleased with the people. John Q. has advised us of his engagement to marry Annie Wells[.] He had also secured the consent of her parents. I wrote him at length upon the subject.
Private Bill day. Had interesting letters from my son Abraham. He is at Ludvigshaven in Germany. He is detained by a sore heel. I wrote him at length.
In evening met at Mr. Frost of Missouri's room at Willards in company with him, Muldrow of Miss., chairman of Com on Ter. and Humphrey of Wis. as a sub-Com. to consider the Bill to organize the Indian Ter into the Ter of Oklahoma. We three found reasons to oppose the Bill and Frost to favor it.
Revised an interview <with me> which Mr. Wight of the Chicago Tribune had written out. House not in Session. Attended session of Indian Committee by permission in order to get the all that would be said respecting the "Mormons" having participated in the Ute outbreak by stirring them up to hostility against the Gov.
Spent a quiet day, reading, &c.
Bro. B. F. Cummings, Jr., arrived here this morning. He had written to Pres. Taylor about passing through Washington on his way home and if he could be of any service to me he would be glad to render it. Pres. T. spoke to me about it, and I told him perhaps he could be of use. There are several things he can do just now, and I had been in correspondence with him about coming here. Call of the States and Territories. At 2 p.m. the District of Columbia Com. had the floor.
Had a call from ex-Gov. Emery of Utah. He is terribly disgusted with Hayes. He promised to send in his name for re-appointment; but instead he has sent in that of Eli H. Murray of K'y. Emery says Hayes' policy in regard to Utah is all wrong. He has told him and the Members of his Cabinet and other leading men. He would like a county in the Ter. named after him.
Met with Com. on Ter. this morning. Discussed various bills. As the call of the States and Territories was not completed yesterday it was resumed to-day. Willets of Mich. introduced a bill to regulate suffrage in the Territories and to provide a registration law for Utah. This man, had he power, shows the disposition to destroy us. We shall see how much success he will have at this business.
Wrote several letters. At the House. After the morning hour, which was consumed in the discussion of the financial question, the discussion upon the rules was resumed. Had a call from Mr. Lamson of Philadelphia, a relative of Sister Jos. L. Heywood's and whose daughter Keatie had come down to the Sates on a visit and was with them here now. I called upon them at the Ebbitt House after dinner in company with my wife and daughters and Bro. Cummings. Had a very pleasant visit.
A gloomy morning. At the House. A bill introduced by Com. on Banking and Currency which had occupied the morning hour for several days was defeated this morning. After which the House resumed the discussion of the Rules.
The Hotel has many additional guests, women who have come to attend the Suffrage Convention which commenced its session yesterday.
Galleries crowded this morning with the expectation of hearing Mr. Horr of Mich. speak in reply to S. S. Cox of N. Y. who in a witty speech yesterday held him up to ridicule. It was generally felt that Mr. Cox had overstepped the bounds of good taste and courtesy in his speech yesterday in alluding to Messrs. Reagan (of Texas) and Kenna (of West Va.), but especially in his allusions to Mr. Horr, and as this latter has the reputation of being a "funny man", considerable interest was felt in his reply. The House expected fun and they were quite willing it should be at Cox's expense. Horr created a great laughter; but I think witty speeches seldom satisfactory, especially when people have an expectation, and are prepared, to hear them. Private bill day.
Wrote to my sons John Q. & Abraham. Took <my daughters> Mary Alice and Emily to the Capitol.
Wrote to my wives, and spent the day reading and conversing.
Met with Ter. Delegates.
Call of States and Ter. Short session. Received letters from Pres. Taylor, and F. S. Richards and Judge Williams, informing me that Van Zile, the U. S. District Attorney, was getting copies of indictments and proceedings against me at the request of Willets of Mich. to send to him, the object evidently being to see what materials can be procured to use towards expelling me from the House.
Met with Com. on Ter., a quorum present. Discussed a bill to prohibit the Sec. of the Int. and the Com. of Indian Affairs from removing Indians from other parts of the country to the Indian Territory without the consent of Congress.
Bro. Spencer Clawson and Sisters Clarissa and Charlotte Talula Young called upon me at the House. They came here last evening. I spent all the time I could with them showing them around. I introduced them to the Vice Pres. Took them, Bro. Cummings and my wife and Mary Alice to the Theatre. Fanny Davenport played Rosalind in "As you like it." The whole performance was very good.
Took the visitors and Bro. Cummings through the Treasury and the White House. I left them to introduce themselves to Mr. Hayes; his conduct in our affairs has been so inimical and inexcusable, proposing our disfranchisement in his message and urging it upon Members as the proper thing to do, that I feel as though I never want to touch his hand or see him again if I can help it. They found they would have to wait sometime to see him, and withdrew without.
After the morning hour the House discussed the rules till 3 o'clock, then indulged in eulogies of Zachariah Chandler, late U. S. Senator from Mich.
The visitors called upon us this evening. They left for N. Y. at 9.40 p.m.
Met with the Com. on Indian Affairs this morning. Gov. Pitkin of Col. was giving testimony. As our people had been accused of inciting these Indians to <commit> these outrages I was desirous of hearing the testimony, and Gen. Scales of North Carolina, the chairman, had kindly invited me to meet with them. In private conversation after the session Gov. Pitkin opened the subject himself and said he was satisfied the stories circulated about the Mormons having anything to do with these troubles were calumnies.
After the morning hour the House discussed the new rules. I wrote a reply to Geo. B. Cannon's letter of inquiry as to my lineage, which with his letter to me insert here. He is an attorney at London, Ohio.
Met with the Com. on Indian Affairs again this morning. Gov. Pitkin continued his testimony. There was nothing new. Private Bill day. I sent a dispatch to my son John Q. and received a reply very quickly, inform ing me they all were well.
At the Dept. of Justice about Bro. Groesbeck's rent for the Court Room, &c. At the Land Dep't. and Patent Office. House met; attended to some desultory business, dispensed with the morning hour and devoted the remainder of the session to eulogizing Rush Clarke, M. C. from Iowa.
Cash Account – January.
T. in T.
Received.
By cash pr. Jas. Jack
To cash for sub. to K'y. paper
″ ″ ″ Capital, &c
1880 Jan.1
By Tithing on coupons
″ ″ ″ dividend
″ ″ ″ U. S. Bond
″ ″ ″ Salary
To Balt. Bulletin
″ Women's convention
″ Miss Anthony
″ 2 Nautical Almanack
″ Trip to Phil. to see T. L. K.
By Tithing on salary
Mar. ″
″ ″ ″ ″
To Hugh Weightman
″ Cash B. F. C. Jr.
″ speeches
″ Arctic explorations
″ N. Y. papers
Apl. 4
″ ″ on <U.C.R.R.> dividend
To expenses of B. F. C. Jr.
To L. Snow's dispatch
″ Rev. Stat. & Stat. at
Apl 5
″ expenses of B. F. C. Jr.
″ papers
By Tithing on
Ap. 26
To cash (speeches)
″ 27
″ present Hon. B. W. Wilson
″ Loan to Barton (Post)
″ Postage estate warrants
″ Mrs. Ward
″ Morgan
By Tithing
″ postage (estate)
″ Frank Morgan
By Tithing on Stationery
To Books (Anglion & Co.)
″ paper (Geo. Reynolds)


text:
When do the clocks go forward in 2016?
The light nights are coming - and hopefully they'll bring some warmer weather with them.
The clocks go forward on the last Sunday in March, with this year is the 27th - which happens to be Easter Sunday.
The UK will switch to British Summer Time (BST) at 1am on the Sunday morning, meaning people will effectively lose an hour's sleep.
The change (also known as daylight saving time) will mean there is more daylight in the evenings but less in the mornings.
British Summer Time was first enforced in 1916 during the First World War in a bid to save money during wartime.
The current system has been in place since 1972.
If you struggle to remember which way the clocks change, you can use the saying: "Spring forward, fall back".
Facts about British Summer Time:
British-born New Zealander George Vernon Hudson first proposed the modern idea of a two-hour daylight saving in 1895.
British Summer Time was suggested in 1907 by William Willett, a keen horse rider and frustrated by the 'waste' of daylight in the early mornings during the summer.
Willett's pamphlet 'The Waste of Daylight' campaigned for the clocks to be changed, but he died in 1915 before he could see it come into being as the idea was opposed by many, especially farmers.
Austria and Germany were the first countries to enact 'Daylight Savings Time' in 1916, quickly followed the same year by the UK and much of Europe.
It was enforced during the First World War, in a bid to save money during wartime.
The current system has been in place since 1972, proposals to keep the clocks at least one hour ahead of GMT all-year round have been debated frequently in parliament but never implemented.
The lighter evenings are also said to reduce road traffic accidents and crime.
It is argued BST is good for physical and psychological health, particularly in terms of relieving the symptoms of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).


When we had family over for dinner last weekend, I walked in on my brother-in-law, Gil, checking out real estate investment courses online. He jumped at the sight of me and apologized for disappearing from the table and into the family room. Not meaning to stay gone for so long, he explained that he just got caught up in trying to figure out how he could carve out a real estate investing career for himself in Naperville like I'd done in Chicago. After we had ourselves a good laugh about how I "snuck up" on him, I asked what interested him most about investing. Turns out, he's thinking about being a landlord here in Illinois since buying houses to renovate and resell, like I do, sounds too risky for his blood. I was quick to point out, though, that while owning rental properties is a solid real estate investment strategy, the reality of being a landlord wasn't always so rosy.
It's fairly typical of potential investors, like Gil, to assume that buying properties to hold as rentals is an easy, even safe, way to begin a career in real estate investing. By comparison, buying, renovating, and selling homes can seem intimidating, especially when you have little-to-no experience assessing market values or performing major repairs. Purchasing a property and getting tenants to cover the mortgage, on the other hand, looks manageable and certainly profitable over the long run. Of course, looks aren't everything, which is why you sometimes have to dig beneath the surface to unearth what's real—even when it comes to investing. So, before you buy that rental, let's examine both the rewards and the risks of being a landlord. Whatever you ultimately decide to do, an informed choice is always going to be a better choice.
To begin, we'll look at how investing in real estate rentals and becoming a landlord can be rewarding—both in the short and long run.
You can earn passive income. The biggest reason a lot of real estate investors decide to buy rental properties is for the chance to earn a passive income. And, you can achieve this by buying a property at the lowest possible price, keeping operating costs such as insurance and upkeep low, and charging market rents—something that's not hard to do in certain up and coming Chicago neighborhoods, for example. Ideally, this strategy covers all of your expenses and then some. Of course, the more that's leftover the more there is for you to pocket.
You may qualify for tax deductions. When you own investment property, you could qualify for tax breaks that homeowners don't have access to. If you take advantage of these deductions, it can boost your bottom line—and, increase the passive income you make. Mortgage interest and fees, renovation expenses, marketing costs, and property insurance are all examples of possible deductions. Even the normal wear-and-tear, called depreciation, of your property may be deductible. Since property taxes here in Illinois are some of the highest in the country, you'll need all the breaks you can get.
Your property could appreciate. Under normal circumstances, real estate appreciates over time. Even when the market does take a dip, it doesn't typically fall as far as the stock market. And, in some of the better places to buy rental property in Illinois, like Peoria and Columbia, it's probably safe to expect a good rate of appreciation. But, wherever you invest in the state, buying property to hold as a rental now does have the potential to yield high returns when you sell later—especially if you make improvements or add high-demand amenities.
You will deal with problem tenants. Even if most of your experiences with tenants are relatively painless, the odds are that you will also have problems. Yes, it's possible that your tenant issues will be limited to late-night maintenance calls or infrequently bounced checks. But, it's more likely that you'll have to deal with occasional property damage, complaints about noise, and tenants who can't—or refuse to—pay rent. And, evictions aren't fun, nor are they fast or cheap, in places like Cook County. So, be prepared to push a lot of paperwork and possibly punch a hole or two in your profits if you get a tenant you need to force out.
You will incur holding costs. Holding costs are an inevitable part of business when you invest in real estate; but, as a landlord, they can be both substantial and persistent. After all, for as long as you own the property, all of the expenses associated with it are yours, whether you've got a tenant in place or not. So, anytime your rental is vacant, you have to pay to hold it. These costs usually include your mortgage payments, utilities, property insurance to protect your investment, and taxes. But, by no means is this list exhaustive.
You will have ongoing property maintenance. Unfortunately, you don't ever get a break from the ongoing care and upkeep that are a part of the responsibilities of being a landlord. It won't matter if you're on vacation, nursing a cold, or dealing with a family emergency, either. You're accountable for everything from a dust-clogged filter in a window air conditioning unit to a collapsed roof after a severe snowstorm, no matter how inconvenient—or expensive—the repairs may be. Just generally keeping things looking nice and running smoothly can be a pain. But, if you want good tenants who pay market rents, you're going to want to clear the walkways and repaint your property regularly. If you own a rental in someplace like Naperville, you'll need to do these things whether you want to or not—or, face the consequences of violating the city's maintenance rules.
If weighing these pros and cons has caused you to doubt whether being a first-time landlord is for you after all, think about buying, rehabbing, and selling houses instead. The hassles that come with being a landlord aren't for everyone—they're certainly not for me. Plus, flipping houses can be less risky than holding rentals since the shorter turnaround time for selling allows you to work within more predictable market conditions. And, because there are always going to be risks to investing in residential property no matter how you slice it, I'll take some predictability where I can get it.
Of course, there is another way to mitigate the risks you might face by investing in real estate: investing in a ready-made business model that provides you with the tools and the team to help you turn flipping houses into a good business, even if you eventually become a landlord, too.
Very early on in my career, I thought being a landlord might be for me. So, I bought a house, held it as a rental, and spent the next several years watching tenants—and my patience—come and go. Not every tenant was a pain, mind you. But, constantly dealing with finding new ones was. Honestly, I wasn't a big fan of updating the same property over and over again, either. When it became clear that I wasn't happy being a landlord, I decided I wanted out of investing.
But, after learning that by becoming an independently owned and operated HomeVestors® franchisee, I could buy, renovate, and sell houses for a living instead, I sold that rental and changed strategies. And, because my business approach modeled the tried-and-true strategies that other HomeVestors® franchisees across Illinois have been implementing for years, I became my own success story. So, not only do motivated sellers come looking for me, would-be investors often do now, too—even if they do use the ruse of a family dinner to do it.
Don't get caught investing in a strategy that may not be for you. Contact HomeVestors, instead, to discuss how you can strive toward your investing goals by owning an Illinois HomeVestors® franchise like me and, now, Gil.


Welcome back for Part 2 of our interview with writer and historian Adam Fisher (Twitter: @AdamcFisher). His most recent book is Valley of Genius: The Uncensored History of Silicon Valley.
In the second portion of our interview, Chad and Adam discuss the most important moments in Silicon Valley's history, the corrosive influences that have crept in in the past few decades, and what Adam foresees for the Valley's future.
Netscape created what we know of as 'the web' today.
Before creating Netscape, Jim Clark was putting the VR algorithm onto a chip which then became the GPU of a computer.
Jim Clark sold Silicon Graphics which was considered the Google of the time.
Jim Clark was an important part of creating computers in Silicon Valley and then moved into the cloud era we live in now. Jim Clark is the only one who has straddled this divide.
The difference between business people and technologists.
The culture of Silicon Valley is about creating a huge amount of wealth that society at large can enjoy and is the inspiration for many people working in SV today.
Why Alan Kay is a genius and Adam's personal hero.
Xerox PARC was an R+D lab where the first personal computer was created.
Alan Kay was the visionary behind the personal computer and had the respect of the tech community to build it.
All of the best companies that came out of Silicon Valley came out of utopian ideas.
The only way out of our problems towards a better future is for everybody to rediscover the kind of utopianism that created SV in the first place.
Student culture in SV is not as utopian as it has been in the past.
People who think they are going to get rich quick has dominated the utopian culture of SV.
What motivated the young people in SV, such as Steve Jobs, was rebellious in nature.
We still have large, monopolistic companies, such as Apple and Facebook, like we did back in the 80s with Microsoft.
The young vs the old culture in SV today.
Blockchain, as the future of the internet, is largely adopted by young people today.
The young, modern people of SV are aware that many of the biggest companies are owned and run by the previous generations still.
Adam wants the best parts of SV to spread across the world.
In SV today people are branching out into other technological frontiers outside of the cloud.
Space travel is just starting in SV.
Adam believes the whole world will be run a lot more like SV and will push our technological development faster than it has for the last 50 years.


Conversations on caring for our bodies are often neglected in the Church, and what is talked about is made complicated. I've lived both extremes: not caring, and then caring but for the wrong reasons. Throughout my health journey though, the Lord revealed to me that my lifestyle choices and physical health do matter, that it is simple, but that my purpose must be rooted in Him.
I'm here to bring these conversations to the Church. To connect nutrition and wellness to faith as a follower of Christ. To understand why it's important in light of Biblical truth, but also how to live a simple and intentional life.
To join me on this journey, I've put together this 3-day devotional for you to explore three key Biblical truths that address why our physical health is important.
Sign up below to get Rooted: connecting nutrition & wellness to faith as a follower of Christ sent directly to your email.