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Parashat Vaetchanan 5777, 2017: "To Love Hashem"
Dedicated to the sacred memories of my mother, Miriam Tovah bat Aharon Hakohen, father-in-law, Levi ben Yitzhak, sister-in-law, Ruchama Rivka Sondra bat Yechiel, sister, Shulamit bat Menachem, Chaim Mordechai Hakohen ben Natan Yitzchak, Yehonatan Binyamin ben Mordechai Meir Halevi, Avraham Yechezkel ben Yaakov Halevy, Shayna Yehudit bat Avraham Manes and Rivka, the refuah shlaimah of Devorah bat Chana, Shoshana Elka bat Etel Dina and Yitzhak Akiva ben Malka, and the safety of our brothers and sisters in Israel and around the world.
The phrase, "And you shall love the L-rd, your G-d" appears twice in the Torah; the first instance is in our parasha (Sefer Devarim 6:5), and the second is found in Parashat Eikev (Sefer Devarim 11:1). Our Torah portion's verse famously states: "And you shall love the L-rd, your G-d, with all your heart and with all your soul, and with all your means." (This and all Bible translations, The Judaica Press Complete Tanach)
Acknowledging Hashem's existence and immanence in the world forms the foundation for being able to love Him. The Rambam (Maimonides, 1135-1204), suggests the following approach to recognizing His presence:
When a person contemplates His wondrous and great deeds and creations and appreciates His infinite wisdom that surpasses all comparison, he will immediately love, praise, and glorify [Him], yearning with tremendous desire to know [G-d's] great name, as David stated: "My soul thirsts for the L-rd, for the living G-d." (Sefer Tehillim 42:3, Mishneh Torah, Hilchot Yesodei HaTorah II:2, these and all Mishneh Torah translations, Rabbi Eliyahu Touger)
In the Rambam's view, awareness of Hashem stems from a thoroughgoing appreciation of the beauty of the natural world and its infinite complexity. This, in turn, leads to a burning desire to "immediately love, praise, and glorify Him," and to "know His great name." Thus far, the Rambam is emphasizing man's intellectual relationship with the Almighty. As such, he employs the terms "contemplates" ("she'yitbonane") and "to know" ("lei'da"). Yet, how does one transition from a purely cerebral gesture of love for the Almighty to its practical application? We are fortunate that the Rambam addresses precisely this question in his Hilchot Teshuvah:
One who serves [G-d] out of love occupies himself in the Torah and the mitzvot and walks in the paths of wisdom for no ulterior motive: not because of fear that evil will occur, nor in order to acquire benefit. Rather, he does what is true because it is true, and ultimately, good will come because of it…G-d commanded us [to seek] this rung [of service] as conveyed by Moses: "And you shall love the L-rd your G-d." When a man will love G-d in the proper manner, he will immediately perform all of the mitzvot motivated by love. (X:2)
Clearly, for the Rambam, love of G-d is expressed in a two-fold fashion: the assiduous study of Torah coupled with the fulfillment of the mitzvot – in a manner wherein "he does what is true because it is true." The Rambam expands upon this idea by asking, "What is the nature of the proper love [of G-d]?" His answer informs Jewish thought until the present moment:
That a person should love G-d with a very great and exceeding love until his soul is bound up in the love of G-d. Thus, he will always be obsessed with this love as if he is lovesick. [A lovesick person's] thoughts are never diverted from the love of that woman. He is always obsessed with her; when he sits down, when he gets up, when he eats and drinks. With an even greater [love], the love for G-d should be [implanted] in the hearts of those who love Him and are obsessed with Him at all times as we are commanded "And you shall love the L-rd, your G-d, with all your heart and with all your soul, and with all your means." (Hilchot Teshuvah X:3)
In the Maimonidean world view, therefore, the love of Hashem is one of powerful passion and obsessive desire, as is metaphorically reflected in King Solomon's Shir HaShirim (Song of Songs) wherein he states, "Sustain me with flasks of wine, and spread my bed with apples, for I am lovesick." (2:5) How does one develop such a holistic and deep love for the Creator? Fortunately, we have the Rambam's analytic response: "It is a well-known and clear matter that the love of G-d will not become attached within a person's heart until he becomes obsessed with it at all times as is fitting…" (Hilchot Teshuvah 10:6) Obsession (shugah bah) with the Almighty, therefore, is the key element that enables a person to pursue his love of Him. Little wonder, then, that Maimonides likens the feeling of overwhelming love for one's beloved to the total love one has for the Master of the Universe.
At this juncture, the Rambam returns to the connection between man's knowledge and love of the Almighty:
One can only love G-d [as an outgrowth] of the knowledge with which he knows Him. The nature of one's love depends on the nature of one's knowledge. A small [amount of knowledge arouses] a lesser love. A greater amount of knowledge arouses a greater love… (Hilchot Teshuvah X:6)
On measure, the Rambam is teaching us a crucial lesson regarding the relationship that obtains between man and G-d, namely, that this bond, as in human relationships, takes ongoing work and effort, and must not be taken for granted. Knowledge of Hashem arouses our love for Him; our engagement in serious Torah study, prayer, and mitzvot observance will enable us to know His ways. As King Solomon insightfully taught us: "Know Him in all your ways, and He will direct your paths." (Sefer Mishle III:6) With Hashem's help, may this be so, and may our knowledge of Him enable us to fulfill our verse, "And you shall love the L-rd, your G-d, with all your heart and with all your soul, and with all your means." V'chane yihi ratzon.
Past drashot may be found at my blog-website: http://reparashathashavuah.org They may also be found on YUTorah.org using the search criteria of Etengoff and the parasha's name.
*** My audio shiurim for Women on the topics of Tefilah and Megillat Esther may be found at: http://tinyurl.com/8hsdpyd
*** I have posted 164 of Rabbi Soloveitchik's English language audio shiurim (MP3)
Parashat Devarim 5777, 2017: "Perform Justice for the Orphan, and Plead the Case of the Widow"
This week's haftarah is taken from the first chapter of Sefer Yeshayahu. As befitting the Shabbat immediately before Tisha b'Av, much of its message is very dark and filled with powerful rebuke:
You [i.e. the Jewish people] shall no longer bring vain meal-offerings, it is smoke of abomination to Me; New Moons and Sabbaths, calling convocations, I cannot [bear] iniquity with assembly. Your New Moons and your appointed seasons My soul hates, they are a burden to Me; I am weary of bearing [them]. And when you spread out your hands, I will hide My eyes from you, even when you pray at length, I do not hear; your hands are full of blood. (13-15, this and all Bible translations, The Judaica Press Complete Tanach)
The phrase, "I will hide My eyes from you, even when you pray at length," is particularly frightening, since it represents a period of hester panim, i.e. of Hashem hiding Himself from His people. Sadly, the Torah warned us long before Isaiah's prophecy that this would be the case if we would serve other gods and forsake Hashem:
And the L-rd said to Moses: Behold, you are [about to] lie with your forefathers, and this nation will rise up and stray after the deities of the nations of the land, into which they are coming. And they will forsake Me and violate My covenant which I made with them. And My fury will rage against them on that day, and I will abandon them and hide My face from them…And I will hide My face on that day (v'anochi hastir astir panai ba'yom hahu), because of all the evil they have committed, when they turned to other deities. (Sefer Devarim 31:16-18)
Clearly, the remedy against the hester panim depicted in this passage is to reject every form of avodah zarah (idol worship) and live lives based upon heartfelt loyalty to Hashem and His Torah. Isaiah, however, focuses upon a different approach to ending hester panim that is infused with the recognition of the existential plight of the disenfranchised among our nation, and the fundamental elements of social justice: "Learn to do good, seek justice, strengthen the robbed, perform justice for the orphan, and plead the case of the widow." (1:17)
Isaiah was acutely aware of the manifest vulnerability of orphans and widows, and the continuous psychological dangers they encounter. As such, he focused upon their marked need for justice and protection in, far too often, harsh and uncaring environments. In so doing, Isaiah echoed powerful pasukim in Sefer Shemot that demand equitable treatment for society's most endangered members: "You shall not oppress any widow or orphan. If you oppress him, [beware,] for if he cries out to Me, I will surely hear his cry." (22:21-22)
Job, as well, emphasized the singular import of protecting the Jewish community's downtrodden, and therefore, proclaims his upright behavior:
For I would deliver the poor who cried out, and the orphan, and one who had no one to help him. The blessing of the lost one would come upon me, and I would make the widow's heart sing for joy. I put on righteousness and it clothed me; like a coat and a turban was my judgment. (Sefer Iyov 29:12-14)
Given the above-cited sources, it is little wonder that the Rambam (Maimonides, 1135-1240) codified our obligations to orphans and widows in his magnum opus of Jewish law, the Mishneh Torah:
A person is obligated to show great care for orphans and widows because their spirits are very low and their feelings are depressed. This applies even if they are wealthy. We are commanded to [show this attention] even to a king's widow and his orphans as is [implied by the text] "You shall not oppress any widow or orphan." (Sefer Shemot 22:21, Hilchot De'ot 6:10, translation, Rabbi Eliyahu Touger)
At this juncture, Maimonides addresses how we should act toward orphans and widows in order to demonstrate the requisite degree of sensitivity:
How should one deal with them? One should only speak to them gently and treat them only with honor. One should not cause pain to their persons with [overbearing] work or aggravate their feelings with harsh words and [one should] show more consideration for their financial interests than for one's own…There is a covenant between them and He who spoke and created the world that whenever they cry out because they have been wronged, they will be answered as [the text] states: "for if he cries out to Me, I will surely hear his cry." (Sefer Shemot 22: 22)
As noted by Rashi (1040-1105) in his gloss on Sefer Shemot 22:21, the obligation to speak to people in a sensitive manner and treat them with honor and dignity applies to everyone - not just the orphan and widow. If so, he asks, why are these individuals so prominently singled out for exceptionally solicitous treatment? The Mechilta, the halachic Midrash to Sefer Shemot, informs his answer: "since they [widows and orphans] are weak and [they] are frequently oppressed." In sum, the Torah urges us to be sympathetic to the psychological needs of all people, and, all the more so, those within society who are most likely to suffer at the hands of others.
We are now in a much better position to understand Isaiah's exhortation to "Learn to do good, seek justice, strengthen the robbed, perform justice for the orphan, and plead the case of the widow," and why it is such an apropos verse immediately before Tisha b'Av. Isaiah knew that in order for our people to authentically reconcile with the Almighty and create a spiritually infused relationship with Him, we must change our behavior toward the most defenseless members of our nation. No one, proclaimed Isaiah, regardless of their personal status (i.e. orphans and widows), should ever be marginalized or treated as second-class members of the Jewish people, for, in truth, we are all holy before the Master of the Universe.
With Hashem's help and blessing, may we live lives in accordance with Isaiah's crucial message, and may this be our final Tisha b'Av before the imminent arrival of Mashiach and the rebuilding of the Beit HaMikdash. V'chane yihi ratzon.
Parshiot Matot - Masei 5777, 2017: "The Eternality of Torat Moshe"
Rabbi David Etengoff
Dedicated to the sacred memories of my mother, Miriam Tovah bat Aharon Hakohen, father-in-law, Levi ben Yitzhak, sister-in-law, Ruchama Rivka Sondra bat Yechiel, sister, Shulamit bat Menachem, Chaim Mordechai Hakohen ben Natan Yitzchak, Yehonatan Binyamin ben Mordechai Meir Halevi, Avraham Yechezkel ben Yaakov Halevy, Shayna Yehudit bat Avraham Manes and Rivka, the refuah shlaimah of Devorah bat Chana, Shoshana Elka bat Etiel Dina and Yitzhak Akiva ben Malka, and the safety of our brothers and sisters in Israel and around the world.
The phrase, "aleh hamitzvot" ("these are the commandments"), appears twice in the Torah, namely, in the concluding pasukim (verses) of Sefer Vayikra, and in our parasha in Sefer Bamidbar:
These are the commandments (mitzvot) that the L-rd commanded Moses to [tell] the children of Israel on Mount Sinai. (Sefer Vayikra 27:34)
These are the commandments (mitzvot) and the ordinances (v'hamishpatim) that the L-rd commanded the children of Israel through Moses in the plains of Moab, by the Jordan at Jericho. (Sefer Bamidbar 36:13, these and all Bible translations, The Judaica Press Complete Tanach)
The pasukim are dissimilar in that the geographic location mentioned in the first pasuk is Mount Sinai, whereas the second refers to "the plains of Moab, by the Jordan at Jericho." Additionally, the first verse only mentions mitzvot, while the second includes mishpatim. In both cases, however, Moses is charged with the obligation to teach the commandments to the entire Jewish people. This concept is alluded to, as well, in the well-known verse, "Torah tzivah lanu Moshe morasha kehillat Ya'akov" ("The Torah that Moses commanded us is a legacy for the congregation of Jacob," Sefer Devarim 33:4)
While the substantive meaning of "aleh hamitzvot" is elusive, we are fortunate that the Talmud Yerushalmi enables us to better understand this phrase: "[This means,] that these [and these alone] are the commandments that Moses instructed us to observe." (Megilah I:V) The Talmud Yerushalmi continues this thought with a crucial statement "And so, too, did Moses teach us: 'In the future, and from this point forward, no other prophet may originate a new commandment for you.'" (Translation my own) In addition, this principle is found in the Midrash Sifrei to Sefer Bamidbar, and four separate times in the Talmud Bavli. Its inclusion in these multiple sources bears powerful testimony to its singular import in classical halachic thought.
The Rambam (Maimonides, 1135-1204), basing himself upon the above cited sources, codifies the expression, "no prophet is permitted to create a new matter (i.e. mitzvah) from this point forward," in a straightforward juridic formulation:
It is clear and explicit in the Torah that it is [G-d's] commandment, remaining forever without change, addition, or diminishment, as [Sefer Devarim 13:1] states: "All these matters which I command to you, you shall be careful to perform. You may not add to it or diminish from it," and [Sefer Devarim 29:28] states: "What is revealed is for us and our children forever, to carry out all the words of this Torah." This teaches that we are commanded to fulfill all the Torah's directives forever. It is also said: "It is an everlasting statute for all your generations," and [Sefer Devarim 30:20] states: "It is not in the heavens." This teaches that a prophet can no longer add a new precept [to the Torah]. (Mishneh Torah, Sefer Hamada, Hilchot Yesodei HaTorah 9:1, translation, Rabbi Eliyahu Touger, underlining my own)
The Malbim (Rabbi Meir Leibush ben Yechiel Michel, 1809-1879) further explicates the meaning of our phrase, "no prophet is permitted to create a new matter from this point forward." He opines that "aleh hamitzvot" connotes "these and no others," and adds, "our teacher Moses was the sole prophet of the Torah." As such, the Malbim explains, "all of the subsequent prophets had but one purpose – to encourage loyalty to Moses' Torah (Torat Moshe)." Thus, by definition, "they could neither add nor subtract [from the Torah]." (Commentary on Sefer Vayikra, section 120, translation my own) The Malbim's use of the expression, "Torat Moshe," is similar in kind to a verse in Sefer Malachi wherein the prophet proclaims, "Remember My servant Moses' Torah (Torat Moshe) [inclusive of] the laws and ordinances which I commanded him in Horeb (i.e. at Mount Sinai) for all Israel." (3:22, translation my own)
The promise of reward for fulfilling Torat Moshe (i.e. the mitzvot) is found throughout the Torah. One of the most celebrated of these passages appears in the second paragraph of the Shema:
And it will be, if you hearken to My commandments that I command you this day to love the L-rd, your G-d, and to serve Him with all your heart and with all your soul, I will give the rain of your land at its time, the early rain and the latter rain, and you will gather in your grain, your wine, and your oil. And I will give grass in your field for your livestock, and you will eat and be sated. (Sefer Devarim 11:3)
This narrative focuses upon the physical rewards that will accrue to our nation if we demonstrate true allegiance to the Almighty. Thus, the focus is on rain, grain, wine, oil, livestock and the general satisfaction of our earthly needs. In contrast, the prophet Malachi turns our attention to the ultimate spiritual reward, namely, the fulfillment of Judaism's eschatological vision: "Behold, I will send you Elijah the prophet before the coming of the great and awesome day of the L-rd, that he may turn the heart of the fathers back through the children, and the heart of the children back through their fathers…" (23-24)
With Hashem's love and guidance, may we have the wisdom and desire to keep His eternal Torat Moshe. Then, with His chane v'chesed v'rachamim (grace, kindness and mercy) may we, as Michah declared, behold Elijah the prophet and the coming of Mashiach ben David (the Messiah son of David) soon and in our days. V'chane yihi ratzon.
*** I have posted 164 of Rabbi Soloveitchik's English language audio shiurim
Parashat Pinchas 5777, 2017: "Why Joshua?"
A great tragedy unfolded when Moses sinned at the Waters of Dispute (Mei Merivah). As the Torah states in our parasha: "…you [Moses] disobeyed My command in the desert of Zin when the congregation quarreled, [when you were] to sanctify Me through the water before their [the Jewish people's] eyes; these were the waters of dispute at Kadesh, in the desert of Zin." (Sefer Bamidbar 27:14, this and all Bible translations, The Judaica Press Complete Tanach) What exactly took place? Moses violated Hashem's direct command to speak to the rock and bring forth water (20:8), and instead, "…raised his hand and struck the rock with his staff twice, when an abundance of water gushed forth, and the congregation and their livestock drank." (20:11) As such, Hashem stated, "…therefore you shall not bring this assembly to the Land which I have given them." (20:12) In sum, the Almighty punished Moses by denying him the possibility of leading the Jewish people into Eretz Yisrael.
A number of years ago, while attending a rabbinic conference, I heard the well-known rabbi and psychotherapist, Rabbi Dr. Reuven Bulka of Ottawa, Canada describe Moses' sin as a classic case of psychological burnout. In his view, Moses was overwhelmed by the unceasing trials and tribulations of leading the nascent Jewish nation, and proclaimed in a moment of abject despair: "Now listen, you rebels (hamorim), can we draw water for you from this rock?" (20:10) Whether we follow Rashi's (1040-1105) interpretation of hamorim as "obstinate ones" or as "fools," one thing is crystal clear: Moses no longer had the ability to distance himself emotionally from our people's slave-mentality-induced behaviors. On measure, their ceaseless complaints and constant murmurings against the Creator and himself were more than he could bear. Hashem knew that this lack of objectivity would prevent him from rendering the crucial kinds of decisions that are the hallmark of a successful leader and, therefore, declared; "you shall not bring this assembly to the Land which I have given them." (20:12)
Moses' life's dream was shattered, for not only was he prohibited from bringing his beloved nation to Eretz Yisrael; he was also personally barred from entering the Land. This idea is underscored in our parasha: "The L-rd said to Moses, 'Go up to this mount Abarim and look at the land that I have given to the children of Israel. And when you have seen it, you too will be gathered to your people [i.e. and disallowed from entering, see Rashi's gloss], just as Aaron your brother was gathered.'" (27:12-13)
Beyond a doubt, a lesser man would have been brought to his knees in self-pity and remorse. Yet, this was by no means Moses' response to his poignant existential anguish. Instead, based on his unceasing love for his people, he immediately asked Hashem: "Let the L-rd, the G-d of spirits of all flesh, appoint a man over the congregation, who will go forth before them and come before them, who will lead them out and bring them in, so that the congregation of the L-rd will not be like sheep without a shepherd." (27:16-17) According to the Midrash Tanchuma, Moses initially wanted his sons to inherit his leadership role. (Warsaw edition, Parashat Pinchas 11) The Almighty, however, responded with a very different choice: "Take for yourself Joshua the son of Nun, a man of spirit, and you shall lay your hand upon him. And you shall present him before Eleazar the kohen and before the entire congregation, and you shall command him in their presence." (27:18-19)
At first glance, Hashem's choice of Joshua as the next leader of the Jewish people seems perfectly apropos. After all, as depicted at the end of Parashat Beshalach, he was a consummate military leader:
So Moses said to Joshua, "Pick men for us, and go out and fight against Amalek. Tomorrow I will stand on top of the hill with the staff of G-d in my hand…" Joshua weakened Amalek and his people with the edge of the sword. (Sefer Shemot 17:9 and 13)
Moreover, and perhaps even more significantly in the overall view of Jewish history, following the Sin of the Golden Calf we are explicitly informed of the special relationship that obtained between Moses and Joshua, and that the latter never left his teacher's tent of Torah learning (Rashi): "…but his [Moses'] attendant (u'mesharto), Joshua, the son of Nun, a lad, would not depart from the tent." (Sefer Shemot 33:11) Clearly, then, it would appear that Joshua was the ideal candidate to carry the mantle of Moses' leadership into a glorious Jewish future.
There are, however, at least two passages in Rabbinic literature that paint a very different picture of Joshua's worthiness to succeed his rebbe. In Sefer Mishle 21:20 we find: "Precious treasure and oil are in the dwelling of the wise man (chacham), but man's foolishness (uchsile) will swallow it up." The Midrash Yalkut Shimoni on this verse presents a startling interpretation, "Chacham – this refers to Moses, Uchsile – this refers to Joshua for he was not a Torah scholar. Therefore, the Jewish people called him a fool!" The following Talmudic passage is an even more powerful indictment against Joshua's candidacy:
Rab Judah reported in the name of Rab: When Moses departed [this world] for the Garden of Eden he said to Joshua: "Ask me concerning all the doubts you have [concerning any halacha]." He replied to him: "My Master, have I ever left you for one hour and gone elsewhere? [i.e. "I have no doubts."] Did you not write concerning me in the Torah: "…but his attendant Joshua, the son of Nun, a lad, would not depart from the tent?" Immediately the strength [of Moses] weakened, [since it seemed that Joshua no longer needed him,] and [Joshua] forgot three hundred laws and there arose [in his mind] seven hundred doubts [concerning various areas of Torah]. Then all the Jews rose up to kill him. (Talmud Bavli, Temurah 16a, translation, The Soncino Talmud, with my emendations)
Given these condemnatory passages, why did Hashem choose Joshua as the next leader of the Jewish people? The previously cited section from the Midrash Yalkut Shimoni provides us with the underlying rationale: "Because he [Joshua] was Moses' attendant he merited the appointment as leader of the people (literally, zacha l'yerushato)." What did he actually do? The Midrash teaches us, "He [Joshua] honored him [Moses], and arranged the covers on the benches [so the classes could be held.] Moreover, he sat at his [master's] feet."
Why did these behaviors qualify him to be the next leader of our people? My rebbe and mentor, Rabbi Joseph B. Soloveitchik zatzal (1903-1993), known as "the Rav" by his students and followers, provides us with a deeply insightful answer to this question:
Often, a leader's successor was chosen not only because of his intellectual prowess but also because of his devoted service to his teacher. When the Baal Shem Tov passed away, the mantle of leadership was not given to Rav Yaakov Yosef, a Torah giant and the author of Toldot Yaakov Yosef. Rather, it passed to the Maggid of Mezeritch, who had served the Baal Shem Tov with great devotion and loyalty. Similarly, Rav Chaim of Volozhin became the successor to his teacher, the Vilna Gaon, partly because he was not only his student but his confidant. (Chumash Mesoras HaRav, with commentary based upon the teachings of Rabbi Joseph B. Soloveitchik, Sefer Bamidbar, edited by Dr. Arnold Lustiger, page 218, underlining my own)
The Rav continues his assessment of Joshua's candidacy in the following manner:
Joshua was not a greater scholar than Phineas or Eleazar, but the service of Torah [scholars] is greater than its study] (Talmud Bavli, Berachot 7b). Service does not merely signify physical toil; it also represents a special closeness and friendship between the teacher and disciple, a type of partnership. The chosen disciple not only receives information from his rebbe, but absorbs a way of life, until they are practically identical in their essence. Moses knew that through his student-colleague, the Torah would be transmitted to future generations. (Page 219)
We are now in a position to answer our question, "Why did Hashem choose Joshua as the next leader of the Jewish people?" Based upon the Rav's trenchant analysis, it is clear that Joshua, and not Phineas, Elazar or even Moses' sons, was the only person who had completely absorbed Moses' values and way of life until he was able to emulate his rebbe's very essence. Little wonder, then, that the Midrash Sifrei famously declares: "The face of Moshe was like the face of the sun, and the face of Joshua was like the face of the moon." (Parashat Pinchas, 140) In other words, Joshua's very being ultimately reflected Moses' knowledge and persona. Therefore, he was the one disciple truly fitting to lead the Jewish people into Eretz Yisrael.
Parashat Balak 5777, 2017: "Blessings and Curses Revisited"
Our parasha contains one of the best-known pasukim (verses) and berachot (blessings) given to the Jewish people, "How goodly (mah tovu) are your tents, O Jacob, your dwelling places, O Israel!" (Sefer Bamidbar 24:5, this and all Bible translations, The Judaica Press Complete Tanach) This verse has been part of our tefilot (prayers) since Gaonic times (6th-11th centuries CE). A telling example of this inclusion is found in Rav Amram Gaon's 9th century work, Seder Rav Amram Gaon: "Upon entering a synagogue, one should say, 'How goodly are your tents, O Jacob, your dwelling places, O Israel!'" (Blessings and Requests, s.v. hanichnas l'bait) Moreover, and closer to our own time, the highly respected halachist, Rabbi Yechiel Michel Epstein (1829 1908), codified this practice in his work, Aruch HaShulchan: "The text of prayers preceding Baruch She'amar [introductory prayer to Pesukei d'Zimra] is printed in prayer books: When [a person] enters a synagogue, he should say "How goodly are your tents, O Jacob." (Orech Chaim I:46:16) It should be noted that Rav Epstein based his statement on earlier poskim (halachic decisors) such as the Maharil (1365-1427) and Rabbi Moshe Isserles (1530-1572) as found in his work Darchei Moshe on the Tur.
In contrast, according to Rabbi Johanan's view in the Talmud Bavli, Balaam's "blessing" was actually a curse in disguise, uttered for the sole purpose of denying our people houses of worship and study ("tents") and a long-term political existence ("dwelling places"):
R. Johanan said: From the blessings of that wicked man [i.e. Balaam] you may learn his intentions [to actually bring evil upon them]. Thus he wished to curse them that they [the Jewish people] should possess no synagogues or houses of Torah learning, [this is deduced from,] "How goodly are your tents, O Jacob," - that the Divine Presence should not rest upon them, "and your dwelling places, O Israel," - that their kingdom should not endure… (Sanhedrin 105b, translation, The Soncino Talmud, with my emendations)
Rabbi Johanan's position was strongly endorsed by the Maharshal (Rabbi Shlomo Luria, 1510-1573) in a responsum:
And in the morning when I enter the synagogue, I begin with the verse, "But I, with Your great loving-kindness, shall enter Your House; I shall prostrate myself toward Your Holy Temple in the fear of You." (Sefer Tehillim 5:8) I, therefore skip the [standard] first verse, "How goodly are your tents, O Jacob…" since this was uttered by Balaam – and he said it as a curse." (Responsa Maharshal, number 64, translation my own)
It should be noted that this line of reasoning was apparently followed, as well, by Rabbi David Abudarham (flourished 1340) in the highly influential study of the siddur that bears his name, wherein Mah Tovu is not included as part of the liturgy. In addition, it is absent in the Kol Bo, an anonymous and prominent work composed by one of the Rishonim who likely lived during the 14th century.
If such significant figures in the history of Halacha opposed the daily recitation of Mah Tovu, why was it subsequently integrated into our daily prayer experience? HaRav Yosef Tzvi Rimon, Rosh Yeshiva of Yeshivat Har Etzion, suggests that Rabbi Abba b. Kahana's analysis, which follows Rabbi Johanan's above-cited statement in Talmud Bavli, Sanhedrin, offers us the key to answering our question:
All of them [i.e. the blessings] reverted to a curse, except in regard to the synagogues and yeshivot, for it is written, "But the L-rd, your G-d, did not want to listen to Balaam. So the L-rd, your G-d, transformed the curse into a blessing for you, because the L-rd, your G-d, loves you" (Sefer Devarim 23:6) - the curse [pursuant to the synagogues and yeshivot], but not the curses. (Translation, The Soncino Talmud, with my emendations)
Rav Rimon explains this passage in the following manner:
Only the blessing of "How goodly (mah tovu) are your tents, O Jacob" remained throughout the generations. This blessing, in its simplest terms refers to the tents of the Jewish people. Our Sages of blessed memory, however, understood that the blessing, in actuality, refers to the synagogues and yeshivot of our nation. The Gemara states in their regard that the initial curse was not fulfilled. Moreover, in each and every generation, synagogues and yeshivot have steadfastly stood in the midst of our nation – even during the most difficult of times. Therefore, it is quite logical to suggest that we say "Mah Tovu" precisely because this prayer of Balaam was never turned in to evil – even unto our own historical moment. (http://jobkatif.org.il/balak-2/, translation and underlining my own)
Next, Rav Rimon builds upon this explanation and offers us a truly inspirational message:
Moreover, it is possible that this verse [i.e. mah tovu] comes to strengthen us when we enter a synagogue for it proclaims, "No person will ever be able to destroy and diminish the eternality of the Jewish people." This is so, [for we see] that even in the instance wherein someone attempted to harm and to curse us – his efforts came to naught due to Hashem turning his curse into a blessing. As the text states: "So the L-rd, your G-d, transformed the curse into a blessing for you, because the L-rd, your G-d, loves you." (Sefer Devarim 23:6) The Holy One Blessed be He loves us and ever worries about our fate. In addition, it is possible that we say this verse in order to enable us to recognize Hashem's favorable vision of His nation – so that we know that it is ever His will to bless and never to curse us. (Bolding appears in the original Hebrew text)
According to Rav Rimon, Mah Tovu emerges as a spiritual rallying cry for our people and a constant reminder of Hashem's steadfast love for us. Moreover, it can serve as our watchword as we face the unceasing trials and tribulations of living in a world that is far too often radically at odds with all that Hashem deems to be righteous and holy.
May the Almighty ever look favorably upon us and fulfill His stirring words in the Birkat Kohanim: "May the L-rd bless you and watch over you. May the L-rd cause His countenance to shine to you and favor you. May the L-rd raise His countenance toward you and grant you peace." (Sefer Bamidbar 6-24-26) V'chane yihi ratzon.


We have a beautiful litter of Pembrokeshire Corgis for sale.
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Bruins players spread holiday cheer, visiting local hospitals
BOSTON (WHDH) - The Boston Bruins made a holiday assist on Wednesday.
The team took a break from the ice to visit hospitals across the area where they signed autographs and handed out gifts.
"It's very special," Bruins center Patrice Bergeron said. "It means a lot to us and we're happy to be here."
Bruins players fanned out across six local hospitals, including the Floating Hospital for Children at Tufts Medical Center.
"They laughed at our costumes and our funny hats, and that's kind of the point," Bergeron said. "You want to create a good reaction that way."
The Bruins are used to being away from home for part of the holiday season.
But for these kids and their parents, spending time in the hospital can be a scary experience.
"Not exactly how we intended to spend our Christmas season, getting ready and stuff like that, so we'll be very happy if we're out of here before Christmas," said Jeffrey Liddle, who was staying at the hospital with his infant son.
Four-year-old Harper Reis was diagnosed with leukemia the day after Thanksgiving.
Her father says she watches the Bruins games with him and she got an autograph from Bergeron, her favorite player.
"It means a lot just that they take the time out of their busy lives just to come here and make some kids happy," said Harper's father, Jeffrey. "That puts a smile on their face and also mine."

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


Tributes to Bergling emerged quickly after the news of his death.
Going to be paying close attention to the Tomorrowland sets this July to how much he gets mentioned.
My favourite all time song of his!
That's sad, he was really talented.
Sad loss, have enjoyed countless songs from him over the years. Rip.
(2018-04-20 20:39)Pete Wrote: [ -> ] That's sad, he was really talented.
Could you leave this out of the discussion? Pretty sure he wouldn't have died due to overuse (at the time of death anyway).
Could you leave this out of the discussion? Pretty sure he wouldn't have died due to overuse.
Apparently had acute pancreatitis caused by excessive drinking. Cause of death still unclear. Didn't listen to the artist's music so I'm pretty indifferent to his death. Rip nonetheless.


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You are here: Virgin Islands News Online » News » Digicel customers in love with new interactive setup
Digicel customers in love with new interactive setup
- others expressed need for improved service
November 22nd, 2017 | Tags: Digicel Kevin R. Gordon restore rebuild customer experience
While some customers praise Digicel for good service, others still complain about not receiving good services. Photo: VINO
CEO of Digicel, Kevin R. Gordon revealed that there is 100 percent coverage on the islands of Tortola, Anegada and Virgin Gorda, while noting that Jost van Dyke has 95 percent coverage. Photo: VINO
ROAD TOWN, Tortola, VI - As Digicel restores and rebuilds its network after sustaining damages to cell sites by Hurricane Irma on September 6, 2017, it is fully back on track with a new customer centric experience.
Digicel reopened its flagship store located on Waterfront Drive in Road Town on Tuesday, November 21, 2017 with new and improved customer interactive experience.
In an exclusive interview with CEO of Digicel, Kevin R. Gordon, he revealed that there is 100 percent coverage on the islands of Tortola, Anegada and Virgin Gorda, while noting that Jost van Dyke has 95 percent coverage.
He said, "We have coverage everywhere so if you need coverage from Digicel you can get coverage. We pride ourselves not in just restoring the network but restoring lives of our customers and that's what we have done."
He further commented that Digicel brought workers from Jamaica, St Lucia, Barbados and other countries to assist with the rebuilding, adding that the aim was to get connectivity up and running through the mobile cell sites.
"We are proud and happy to have been a part of that journey. We are happy for our customers that they stayed with us through the process and I know it wasn't easy guys but we want to thank you for your patience with us," expressed Mr Kevin R. Gordon with a smile.
In love with the new set up
Our newsroom caught up with some customers and asked them what they thought about the new setup of the store and the service.
Ms Kimberly S. Evans, a Jamaican national and Digicel customer for 3 years, expressed that she is "in love with the new set".
She said, "This is the best interactive set up I've seen. One thing about Digicel, they are all about pleasing their customers to the fullest."
Speaking with Brian L. Williams, Digicel customer for 7 years, he stated that the set up is good and he likes that it is interactive.
"What I like most is they manage your account section where you don't have to wait in line to top up or pay a bill, you can do it on your own. Digicel is definitely the better network," said Mr Williams.
Still work to be done
While some persons praised Digicel on its excellent service, other customers complained about receiving not so good service.
Shari V. Liburd revealed to our news reporter that she is a new Digicel customer.
"I use to be a Flow customer but they weren't acting right when it comes to service especially during and after Irma. So I decided to switch to Digicel to see if they can give me what I'm looking for or they are just like Flow," explained Ms Liburd.
"Digicel is all about showing off. They say they are the bigger better network but myself and some of my friends get drop calls a lot of times. That money they using to do up fancy thing, they need to invest it and make the service better," expressed an unsatisfied customers.
Kenisha M. Gonzales expressed that she has issues with her data plan from Digicel.
"I think my data plan is finishing too fast. Sometimes I find myself paying for another plan even though the previous one hasn't expired as yet," claimed Ms Gonzales.
5 Responses to "Digicel customers in love with new interactive setup"
apple pie (22/11/2017, 14:52) Like (4) Dislike (3) Reply
Worse internet
Huu (23/11/2017, 07:48) Like (3) Dislike (0) Reply
Credit vanish even if your are not using your device.
Oh Please! (22/11/2017, 16:26) Like (4) Dislike (1) Reply
POOR POOR POOR POOR POOR POOR POOR POOR POOR SERVICE!!! CALLS ARE DROPPING LIKE CRAZY! INTERNET IS RIDICULOUS. Kudos to your re-opening!!!
lolol (23/11/2017, 21:45) Like (0) Dislike (1) Reply
poor customer service and poor internet, all fake!
LNB (24/11/2017, 07:01) Like (0) Dislike (0) Reply
Big fancy store and the average wait time is still more than an hour just to pay a bill. Then the simplest request takes another 20-30 minutes for them to address. Waste of time.


After shaving 10 big-city AMC locations from its app in New York, Boston, San Diego, Washington D.C. and Los Angeles, MoviePass now is covering all AMC locations, Deadline has confirmed.
MoviePass told us back in January that it pulled less than 2% of AMC's locations because the chain didn't want to collaborate with the monthly movie-ticket service. MoviePass was seeking a cut of concessions and ticket sales as it drove business to AMC's venues. You can read the statement made in January by Ted Farnsworth, CEO of MoviePass parent Helios & Matheson here.
According to a MoviePass insider today, the company claims that the kibosh on AMC wasn't so much a ban but rather a test of their consumers' ticket-buying habits. Essentially, by turning off the spigot, MoviePass got to see how that impacted moviegoer traffic to other competitors and claims that they saw a spike in overall business of 23% in the four days following the AMC block.
So in the wake of MoviePass landing an exhibition agreement with Landmark Theatres, have talks resumed with AMC for the movie-ticket service to get a cut? We understand that talks have not resumed — but MoviePass is hopeful.
HMNY, MoviePass' parent company, closed up 16% today at $2.98. MoviePass counts 2 million monthly subscribers.
Variety first had the news about about MoviePass' fence mending with AMC.


Villa Aya is located in Amitie Praslin Island. The villa is minutes walk from the beach of Amitie, just 5 minutes drive from the National Airport and 20 minutes drive from Baie St Anne jetty .
Praslin, second biggest island of the Seychelles, is admired for their wonderful landscapes, its singular nature, its huge beaches Anse Georgette and Anse Lazio. The UNESCO world-nature-inherits Vallée de Mai belong to the obligation program of each visitor. The islands La Digue, Curieuse and Cousin lie in the neighborhood, everyone ready for a worth-worth day trip.


Wendy Colonna's Nectar, invites listeners to taste the sweetness of life in stories of surrender, mortality and redemption. With her swamp-Americana style, Colonna displays grit, grace and a sense of humor as she shares her journey of a return to innocence. With soulful southern storytelling, the songs on Nectar showcase Colonna's singular vocal abilities with a natural simplicity and authenticity.
Read the Buzz about Nectar Here.
Recorded and produced by Mark Addison at the Aerie Studio, Austin TX.


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Lower Economy
Places to stay in Lower Economy, Nova Scotia
We currently have 12 accommodations in and around Lower Economy with other regional listings available for Hotels, Bed & Breakfasts, Motor Inns, RV parks and other properties. You can filter listings by the available types:
Camping / RV
Cottages / Lodges / Rentals
Lower Economy is a community in Nova Scotia, located in Colchester County. Places to eat in the region include Diane's Restaurant, and Jack's Ship Diner.
Wondering where to stay? Lodging options in the community are mainly limited to Bed and Breakfast type accommodations. If you are travelling in the area, Lower Economy is located close to Moose Brook, Herbert River, Campbell Brook, Cheverie Creek and Folly Mountain.
Looking for somewhere to eat? Locate places to eat in Lower Economy.
Not the town you are looking for? Try our Town Search, or use the Advanced Google Search above.
Other local Lower Economy information and places to visit.
Longitude: -63°59'9.2004
Latitude: 45°24'4.644
Magic Valley Family Fun Park
Located at 4488 Highway 4. Featuring waterslides, pedal boats, bumper boats, grand prix raceway, arcade and more.
Springhill Miners' Museum
Located at Black River Road P.O. Box 1000. Tour the depths of a Springhill coal mine, famous in song and legend, with knowledgeable guides. Hear stories of the disaster of 1891, the 1916 subterranean fire which raged through the galleries, the loss of 39 men in the 1956 explosion and the major "bump" in 1958 which killed 75 men.
Fundy Geological Museum
Located at P.O. Box 640. Discover an Ancient World and see some of the oldest dinosaur bones in Canada. Meet some of the ancient creatures that lived here millions of years ago - the world's first reptiles, an ancestor of frogs, early dinosaurs, giant dragonflies and a sow-bug-like creature as long as a baseball bat. So many great fossils!
Arlene Collins Art Gallery
Located at 10182 Highway 209, Diligent River. Growing up in the country, Arlene's love for art began at a young age, sketching wildlife scenes and admiring the beauty of landscapes. She was born near Parrsboro, Nova Scotia, and began painting in the early 90's, first experimenting with acrylics, but preferring oils because of better control and a truer color.(Open by Chance or Appointment)
Anne Murray Centre
Located at 36 Main Street Box 610. "From Springhill to the World." The Anne Murray Centre pays tribute to the achievements of Springhill's internationally acclaimed singing superstar, Anne Murray. A series of award-winning three-dimensional and audio-visual displays feature awards, memorabilia and highlights of her exciting career together with a special exhibit of the dramatic story of her hometown. The gift shop features quality souvenirs and treasures from Atlantic artisans. Operated by: Anne Murray Centre Society.
Lower Economy is close to:
Five Islands - 3km
Upper Economy - 8km
Burntcoat - 12km
Toronto | Ottawa | Vancouver | Calgary | Halifax | Charlottetown | Moncton
Lower Economy home
B&Bs - 4
Hotels and Motels - 2
Camping / RV - 3
Cottages / Lodges / Rentals - 3


Pack an emergency kit so you are prepared when little things come up. Not sure what to pack? See a list HERE.
Arrange with your caterer to have meals made 'to-go' for you and your spouse. After a long day, which you'll likely barely eat, the last thing you want to do is be searching for food.
Email AND print a detailed schedule for the wedding party and all vendors. From rehearsal dinner thru the end of the reception and any important details following the wedding.
Print a full vendor list that includes vendor's names, phone numbers, scheduled arrival time and duties. This way friends and family can help locate vendors if needed.
Plan gaps in your schedule (more than just travel time) leave 1/2 an hour here and there in case something runs over – if everything goes to schedule, that will leave you time to eat/drink and relax.
Make sure that there is natural light in the room where you are getting ready. It will make a HUGE difference in the getting ready images!
Wear a robe or button up shirt while getting ready so you don't mess up your hair or makeup when you take it off to change into your dress. See some options HERE and HERE.
Before we arrives have all details together and set aside as we will want to take detail shots of all these special items and having them together and accessible will save time and be more efficient.
Brides - dress, jewelry, bouquet, garter, something blue, something old, shoes etc.
Grooms - tie, shoes, socks, cuff links, watch, family heirlooms etc.
Other Details - wedding invitation, favors etc.
Plan on extra time for you and your bridal party to get ready. It's better to be safe than rushed.
Designate a helper to help with any last-minute tasks while you are getting ready or make runs for forgotten items. This will take some stress off you.
Music! Your playlist can really set the mood of your day so don't forget to bring some!
Take a moment to yourself. Breathe, relax, find your happy place.
Just breathe - relax your shoulder and stand up straight. You will notice your posture in photographs.
Walk SLOWLY down the aisle. This is YOUR time to shine! Everyone is there to see you, enjoy that! This also gives your photographer and videographers adequate time to capture images of you coming down the aisle.
Smile! It will cover up your nervousness and help you relax.
Designate a loud but polite person to round-up family member for family portraits. This makes family portraits go so much faster and smoother!
Relax. Have fun! You are getting married!!!
Give a 'Thank You' speech with your spouse, your guests want to hear from you!
Appoint someone to save you from chatty guests. Inevitably someone will talk your ear off that's why having someone to politely pull you away is a must!


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2014 Geneva Motor Show: BMW M3 Sedan
Home » Auto Shows » 2014 Geneva Motor Show: BMW M3 Sedan
Horatiu Boeriu
March 4, 2014 / 2 minutes read
While not the main attraction at the BMW stand in Geneva, the 2014 BMW M3 Sedan still captures the attention of passing-by visitors. The F80 M3 Sedan goes on sale this summer along with the M4 Coupe and brings a full refresh to the current M lineup.
The display model sports the Yas Marina Blue paint job which is also available for the M4 Coupe. The M3 Sedan and M4 Coupe can be ordered in Alpine White, Sakhir Orange, Black Sapphire, Silverstone, Mineral White, Mineral Grey, Austin Yellow and Yas Marina.
While the M4 stands out with its sleek design and highly attractive roofline, the F80 M3 is shaping up to be one of the best looking and balanced-designs in the current BMW lineup. While the previous E90 M3 sold in less quantities than the E92 M3 Coupe, this time around, the odds might be in sedan's favor. The F80 M3 stands out with its rear-end and the purposeful rear wheel arches.
Since it starts on a smaller track (the F30), the F80 M3 has a width of 1877 mm versus 1870 mm for the M4, and furthermore, the rear-end features a wider bodykit to bring it to the same dimensions as the M4.
The F80 2015 BMW M3 Sedan will cost $62,000 and 2015 BMW M4 has a base price $64,200. Destination and handling is $925. The European Delivery price for the M3 sedan is $57,710 and M4 starts at $59,755.
The new engine in the M3 and M4 (S55 3.0 liter turbo) sees a slight power upgrade over the previous V8 to approximately 430 hp, while peak torque has been increased by well over 30 per cent to substantially more than 500 Newton meters, and is maintained over a very wide rev band. The new powerplant also boasts excellent fuel consumption, with an improvement of more than 25 per cent over the previous model's figures, while emissions are already EU6-compliant.
2015 BMW M3 Sedan
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Craziest color on a 2022 BMW M3 - Signal Green?


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Detail from Olaus Magnus Carta Marina 1539: The ship-destroying sea monster is symbolising the perils of a journey across the open ocean.
A Project on the Low German merchants' trade from Bremen and Hamburg with the North Atlantic islands is not complete without the vessels that made trade across the ocean possible. The written sources tell us that many German ships were lost along the coast of Iceland, but until today, not a single mentioned shipwreck was found. This is not surprising, given the circumstance that underwater archaeology in Iceland is not even twenty years old.
The saying "Searching for a needle in a haystack" is fitting pretty well to the search for shipwrecks mentioned in historical documents, considering the abilities to determine a ship's position in the past and the fact that 71 % of Earth's surface is covered by water. Even today, many ships vanish without a trace. On top of that, the number of archaeologists looking for certain shipwrecks is extremely low. Therefore, most shipwrecks are found by accident and they remain more or less anonymous.
However, technology has improved and the potential for finding shipwrecks is much higher today than in the past. A number of devices can be used and combined for surveying the sea floor. A common combination is a side-scan sonar and a number of magnetometers, but this is still no guarantee for finding wrecks. When a ship is too decayed, or has settled into the sediment, the sound-rays of the side-scan sonar will not be able to produce a recognisable image. Moreover, magnetometers will not detect anomalies from the earth's magnetic field when there is not enough metal on board the ship. Especially for medieval ships and early modern merchant vessels without guns, this can easily be the case. A sediment sonar could be a solution, which measures changes of density in the sediment with sound signals. The disadvantage is that waterlogged wood has the same density as waterlogged sediment. If a shipwreck has no denser cargo or ballast on board, the sonar will not detect density changes. Therefore such ships will remain hidden, even if an area is surveyed. Divers might be suggested as a final solution but a diver's operating range is very limited, as he/she depends on depth, weather conditions, visibility and air supply.
The fact is that archaeologists rely in most cases on coincidences, which is how most of the known shipwrecks were found. The reason for this is that many other professions like builders, fishermen, geologists etc. spend much more time working on the sea floor than archaeologists, and sometimes stumble upon a wreck. One famous example for this is for example the "Bremen Cog" in the German Maritime Museum in Bremerhaven. A suction-excavator operator found it in the river Weser close to Bremen, when he was working on an extension of the riverbed. It became one of the most important finds in ship archaeology. Over the past decades, since underwater became an area of archaeological interest, hundreds of shipwrecks have been registered by the heritage departments of the German federal states but only a few of them could be identified by historical documents.
The author examining an anchor off the west coast of Gotland, at the site of the Visby-Disaster of 1566 (Photo: Jens Auer).
When we approach the shipwrecks from the historical documents, we have to realize that mentioned positions for lost ships are most of the time very vague. This situation can extend the search area dramatically without even knowing if the wrecks still exist as a coherent site. The conditions of the natural environment are vital to the survival of remains. Rugged coastlines, strong currents, micro-organisms, the chemical consistence of the water and the like can severely contribute to the decay of organic matter, metals and even certain types of stone. In the Mediterranean Sea, for example, ship hulls will not survive for a long time above the sea floor due to temperature, salinity and micro-organisms. Iron will soon vanish by the reaction with salt and oxygen and even marble and copper-alloys will decay. The opposite situation can be found in the Northern Baltic or the Sea Black Sea, for example. The Northern Baltic is deep, has a very low salt content and is cold. This prevents wood-decaying organisms to multiply and destruction from anchors or looting divers. The Black Sea water, on the other hand, has hardly any oxygen in a certain depth, which almost freezes time on the sea floor.
In addition, the circumstances of the sinking in connection to the natural environment play an important role. A German ship in Spanish service in 1588, the Gran Grifon, hardly left any structural remains. Another extreme example is the destruction of a united navy fleet of Lübeck and Danish ships during the Nordic Seven Years War on the west coast of Gotland in 1566. Out of thirty-seven ships, fifteen were lost and 6000 to 8000 sailors lost their lives in the so-called Visby-Disaster. Intensive archaeological diving surveys for several years could not reveal any wreck site. The ships literally vanished, most likely because they disintegrated in the storm on the rough sea floor and their remains were thrown up on the beach.
These examples shows us that a sunken ship mentioned in the historical documents does not always leave a proper wreck site. Sometimes scattered debris spread over square kilometres of sea floor can be all that is left of a ship.
The site of the Bremen trading harbour Búðir/Bodenstede on the west coast of Iceland. It continued to be used by the Danes after 1601.
In theory, Iceland has a high potential for finding shipwrecks. Since the late 9th century, humans settle here and they had no other way than to cross the rough North Atlantic Ocean and make landfall on a rugged coast. Many ships, Norwegian, Danish, English, Low German and Dutch, evidently got lost on their route between continental Europe and Iceland. A considerable number of these found their end on the coast of Iceland, as we can read in the historical documents. Ragnar Edvardson has calculated a number of about 450 shipwrecks in Iceland, from the period from 1100 to 1900, most of which foundered on the West coast. Until today, no wreck from the period of the Low German trade has been found. The oldest ship found in Iceland is currently a Dutch merchantman, which sank in the harbour at Flatey in Breiðafjörður in 1659, and is currently under investigation by Kevin Martin. The scarcity of known shipwrecks in Iceland is not necessarily because they vanished completely, but because maritime archaeology is a very young discipline in this country and started only with sporadic projects from 1993 onwards. The relatively few inhabitants of Iceland also reduce the possibility of coincidental discoveries of wrecks due to the lack of building activities.
However, coincidences happen – even in Iceland. In 1998, an excavator hit timbers while digging a cable trench near Búðir on the Snæfellsnes peninsula in Western Iceland. They turned out to be fragments of a ship that was buried under the sand of an estuary. Some timbers and ballast stones were recovered by archaeologist Björn Stefánsson, and brought to the National Museum of Iceland in Reykjavik, were they were documented and put in storage. None of the recovered timbers was suitable for dendrochronological dating, but the ballast included stones that can possibly originate in Norway, Britain or Greenland. However, this does not give any indication were the ship was coming from, because ballast was taken from board and loaded in all harbours depending on the cargo and to adjust the angle of the ship in the water, to trim the ship. The recovered timbers give the impression of an old carvel-built ship. The material seems not to be of the finest quality, but this is hard to judge from only a handful of timbers. A promising fact is that Búðir was an important trading centre in Iceland for at least 200 years. It was already visited by Bremen merchants in the late 16th century, who called it "Bodenstede". For a long time it was the main trading site for the Snæfellsness Peninsula, called first by cargo ships of the Low German merchants and later by Danish and Dutch ships. It was abandoned as a trading post in 1787.
For this reason, we have written sources on the activities on this site including the loss of several ships during these 200 years. The problem for the identification of the accidental found ship is the fact that there was not only one ship lost near the site. We know at least about eleven ships that are reported to have been lost at Búðir and its harbour Búðavik. Of those eleven ships, one was from Bremen. It belonged to the merchant Vasmer Bake and sank in or close to the harbour of Bodenstede in 1587. This was reported by Carsten Bake, his son, who himself was involved in the Iceland trade. In 1607, a Danish ship wrecked at Búðir. For 1666, another ship sank west of Búðir. More ships sank in this area in 1724, 1728 (Danish) and 1754, and lastly, Bjarni Sívertsen's cutter, which got lost here in 1812.
Certainly, it is possible that the ship found in 1998 is Vasmer Bake's lost vessel from 1587, but the timbers cannot give us any more detailed information. All we can say today about the few recovered timbers is that there are five floor timbers and two fragments with an unknown function. The floor timbers indicate that the cable trench hit the wreck most likely in the bow section, leaving most of the buried remains uncovered. Each plank was attached to each frame with at least two tree nails, and each frame was connected to the keel with one or two tree nails. The dimensions of the floor timbers vary a lot, from flat and wide to high and narrow. This might be an indication that whoever built the ship faced either a shortage of crooked compass timbers, or the building did not rely on an even framing in a shell based building method, or both. However, it can also not be excluded that we face the remains of Bjarni Sívertsen's cutter from 1812. Only future investigations might give us an answer.
Edvardson R. and Grassel Ph., The Potential of Underwater Archaeology in the North Atlantic. In: N. Mehler, Travelling to Shetland, Faroe and Iceland during the 15th to 17th centuries (in press).


2017-03-16 11:25:39 [INFO] main_window.py(303) header_for_all_callback(): fired!
2017-03-16 11:26:40 [DEBUG] timezone.py(305) run(): A working network connection has been detected.
2017-03-16 11:26:40 [DEBUG] timezone.py(338) run(): Timezone (latitude 41.3888, longitude 2.1590) detected.
2017-03-16 11:26:43 [DEBUG] updater.py(76) __init__(): Cannot not find /usr/share/cnchi/update.info file. Cnchi will not be able to update itself.
2017-03-16 11:26:43 [INFO] check.py(223) store_values(): We have Internet connection.
2017-03-16 11:26:43 [INFO] check.py(224) store_values(): We're connected to a power source.
2017-03-16 11:26:43 [INFO] check.py(225) store_values(): We have enough disk space.
2017-03-16 11:26:56 [DEBUG] features.py(181) fill_listbox(): Removing proprietary graphic drivers feature.
2017-03-16 11:27:20 [DEBUG] rank_mirrors.py(326) run(): Auto mirror selection has been run successfully.
2017-03-16 11:27:21 [DEBUG] run_cmd.py(104) call(): /dev/nvme0n1p1: UUID="896C-9DAF" TYPE="vfat" PARTUUID="bffa94d6-77c6-4ba2-83fb-11a215d827ff"
2017-03-16 11:27:21 [DEBUG] run_cmd.py(104) call(): /dev/nvme0n1p2: UUID="54056685-3b4f-46f1-b693-ff545f02d891" TYPE="ext4" PARTUUID="51d60da4-251c-422a-bf7e-0b5c6b9ef8c1"
2017-03-16 11:27:21 [DEBUG] run_cmd.py(104) call(): /dev/nvme0n1p3: LABEL="Arxius" UUID="0a116831-376e-4dcc-af9d-5ab2972801a7" TYPE="ext4" PARTUUID="d0da976a-3adb-417e-b1ad-d6e9193425a2"
2017-03-16 11:27:30 [DEBUG] advanced.py(894) on_partition_list_edit_activate(): /boot or /boot/efi need to be fat32 in UEFI systems. Forcing it.
2017-03-16 11:27:30 [DEBUG] run_cmd.py(104) call(): /dev/nvme0n1p2: UUID="54056685-3b4f-46f1-b693-ff545f02d891" TYPE="ext4" PARTUUID="51d60da4-251c-422a-bf7e-0b5c6b9ef8c1"
2017-03-16 11:27:30 [DEBUG] run_cmd.py(104) call(): /dev/nvme0n1p3: LABEL="Arxius" UUID="0a116831-376e-4dcc-af9d-5ab2972801a7" TYPE="ext4" PARTUUID="d0da976a-3adb-417e-b1ad-d6e9193425a2"
2017-03-16 11:27:35 [DEBUG] run_cmd.py(104) call(): /dev/nvme0n1p3: LABEL="Arxius" UUID="0a116831-376e-4dcc-af9d-5ab2972801a7" TYPE="ext4" PARTUUID="d0da976a-3adb-417e-b1ad-d6e9193425a2"
2017-03-16 11:27:37 [DEBUG] advanced.py(2115) get_changes(): Device /dev/nvme0n1p1 will be modified, not relabeled, formatted, mounted as /boot/efi and not encrypted.
2017-03-16 11:27:37 [DEBUG] advanced.py(2115) get_changes(): Device /dev/nvme0n1p2 will be modified, not relabeled, formatted, mounted as / and not encrypted.
2017-03-16 11:27:44 [DEBUG] select_packages.py(386) add_features_packages(): Adding packages for 'aur' feature.
2017-03-16 11:27:44 [DEBUG] select_packages.py(386) add_features_packages(): Adding packages for 'bluetooth' feature.
2017-03-16 11:27:44 [DEBUG] select_packages.py(386) add_features_packages(): Adding packages for 'cups' feature.
2017-03-16 11:27:44 [DEBUG] select_packages.py(386) add_features_packages(): Adding packages for 'firewall' feature.
2017-03-16 11:27:44 [DEBUG] select_packages.py(386) add_features_packages(): Adding packages for 'fonts' feature.
2017-03-16 11:27:44 [DEBUG] select_packages.py(386) add_features_packages(): Adding packages for 'smb' feature.


Create bespoke booking portals, primarily for meetings and group business, without any IT department intervention.
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Increase adoption rates with easy to use technology that provides access to a comprehensive ranges of venues and highly detailed content.
The facility to search using preferred venues also ensures compliance with company booking policies.


Thanks to those who envied me, you made my self - esteem increase.
Thanks to those who stayed, you showed me the true meaning of friendship.
Someone asked me what kind of person do I want to love? I just said, someone who is not strong…not strong enough to let me go.


text:
FCC Reveals Plan to Repeal Net Neutrality Rules
The plan to undo Obama-era internet regulations is set for a Dec. 14 vote.
By Natalie Jarvey
Natalie Jarvey
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Reed Hastings' Netflix Pay Tops $43M, Ted Sarandos Earns $39M in 2020
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November 21, 2017 9:10am
Chip Somodevilla/Getty
The chairman of the Federal Communications Commission, Ajit Pai, on Tuesday morning unveiled a broad plan to repeal the net neutrality rules previously put in place to create equal access to the internet.
Under Pai's new plan, rules first introduced in 2015 to prevent internet service providers from blocking or throttling online traffic would be undone, and ISPs like AT&T and Verizon would be given substantial authority to prioritize traffic from certain websites.
"For almost twenty years, the internet thrived under the light-touch regulatory approach established by President Clinton and a Republican Congress," Pai said in a statement, noting that new rules put in place under President Barack Obama "imposed heavy-handed, utility-style regulations upon the internet."
He continued, "Today, I have shared with my colleagues a draft order that would abandon this failed approach and return to the longstanding consensus that served consumers well for decades."
Pai's proposal would require ISPs to be transparent about their practices.
The plan is set for a December 14 vote and is expected to pass given that the FCC's is currently controlled by Republicans.
The dismantling of net neutrality rules would be seen as a win for the cable companies and wireless firms that control internet service for most American homes. These companies would now be able to charge companies like Netflix or Google that take up significant bandwidth for faster internet speeds. The ISPs would also be able to prioritize internet traffic from their owned-and-operated sites and apps.
Verizon released a statement from senior vp Kathy Grillo, who serves as deputy general counsel of public policy and government affairs, in support of the proposed repeal, that calls the plan a "much-needed return to the approach that fostered so many years of internet openness and innovation."
Netflix responded to the proposal by reiterating its stance in support of net neutrality. "We oppose the FCC's proposal to roll back these core protections," a spokesman said in a statement. Netflix executives have long supported net neutrality, but CEO Reed Hastings admitted last spring that the streaming giant is "big enough to get the deals we want" to ensure that it receives priority with ISPs. In July, the company filed statements with the FCC that made its stance on the subject known. "Failing to protect the internet's openness is the equivalent of shutting down Main Street, Wall Street and the public square, all rolled into one," reads the company's statement.
Google has also come out against Pai's plan. In a statement, a Google spokeswoman said, "The FCC's net neutrality rules are working well for consumers and we're disappointed in the proposal announced today."
10:45 a.m. PT Updated to include a statement from Netflix.
11:04 a.m. PT Updated to include a statement from Google.
Kathryn Prescott


text:
Christen Annemarie Press (Los Angeles, 1988. december 29. –) világbajnok amerikai női válogatott labdarúgó.

Pályafutása

Klubcsapatokban
Iskolai csapatai után a Stanford Egyetemen 71 gólt és 41 gólpasszt jegyzett, mellyel az egyetem történetének legeredményesebb játékosa lett.

2009-ben került a Pali Blues csapatához, ahol USL W-League bajnoki címet szerzett, majd a magicJacknél eltöltött rövid időszak alatt figyelt fel rá a svéd Kopparbergs/Göteborg együttese. Itt 21 mérkőzésen 17 találatot ért el és kupagyőzelemhez segítette a göteborgiakat.

A szezon végeztével került a Tyresö gárdájához és a nagy nevekkel teletűzdelt (Marta, Røddik Hansen, Krieger, Seger, Sembrant, Graham Hansen, Harris, Dahlkvist) együttessel svéd bajnoki ezüstérmet és gólkirálynői címet szerzett 23 találattal a 2013-as szezonban. A 2013–2014-es Bajnokok Ligájában 9 gólt termelt és a döntőben buktak el a VfL Wolfsburg ellenében.

Együttese a döntő után csődöt jelentett, így játékostársaival együtt Press szabadlistára került és a Chicago Red Stars keretéhez csatlakozott.

A 2018-as szezon végeztével több NWSL csapat is érdeklődött iránta, azonban a Houston Dash-el több hetes tárgyalás után sem jutottak dűlőre. Ezt az időszakot kihasználva Press március 26-án elfogadta régi-új csapata ajánlatát és újra leszerződött a Kopparbergs/Göteborg keretéhez.

2019-ben a Utah Royals csapatához írt alá, majd Angliában, a Manchester Unitednél 14 találkozón állt csatasorba.

Kontraktusa lejártával visszatért az Egyesült Államokba és a 2022-es NWSL szezonban bemutatkozó Los Angeles-i Angel City FC első igazolt játékosa lett.

A válogatottban
Skócia ellen lépett pályára első alkalommal a válogatottban. 2015-ben és 2019-ben világbajnoki címet szerzett, a tokiói olimpiai játékokról pedig bronzéremmel tért haza.

Sikerei

Klubcsapatokban
 USL W-League győztes (1):
Pali Blues (1): 2009
 Svéd bajnoki ezüstérmes (1):
Tyresö FF (1): 2013
 Svéd női labdarúgókupa győztes (1):
Kopparbergs/Göteborg FC (1): 2012
Bajnokok Ligája ezüstérmes (1):
Tyresö FF (1): 2014

A válogatottban

 Világbajnok (2): 2015, 2019
 Olimpiai bronzérmes (1): 2020
 Aranykupa győztes (2): 2014, 2018
 Algarve-kupa győztes (2): 2013, 2015
 SheBelieves-kupa győztes (3): 2016, 2018, 2020
 Nemzetek Tornája győztes (1): 2018

Jegyzetek

Források

Források

1988-ban született személyek
Élő személyek
Amerikai női labdarúgók
Los Angeles-iek
Labdarúgócsatárok
Világbajnok női labdarúgók
A 2015-ös női világbajnokság labdarúgói
A 2019-es női világbajnokság labdarúgói
Amerikai olimpikonok
Amerikai olimpiai bajnokok
Amerikai olimpiai érmesek
A 2016. évi nyári olimpiai játékok labdarúgói
A 2020. évi nyári olimpiai játékok labdarúgói
A Chicago Red Stars labdarúgói
A magicJack labdarúgói
A BK Häcken női labdarúgói
A Tyresö FF női labdarúgói
A Utah Royals FC labdarúgói
A Pali Blues labdarúgói
A Manchester United női labdarúgói

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaWikipedia


The KARL is a must-have wardrobe item that can be worn year-round. Made from super-soft cashmere. The slightly rounded shape gives the vest a relaxed fit, while the extra button at the waist can be fastened to create a more fitted and feminine look.
Model wears size S. Model's height is 1.79 m. The cardigan is 79 cm long.


NANOSKETCH #4 Interweaves in-between imagines the sounds of atomic collisions and the perceptible language of atoms 'speaking'; the possibility of audible conversations across the invisible thresholds in the 'fabric' of nano-materiality.
In Figment, rendered clouds and mountains, with their mediated counterparts, contemplate contemporary technological society's relationship with the natural world. Layers of a metaphoric relationship with the moving images emerge – clouds are synonymous with digital culture, landscapes are realistically depicted stationary but are constructed.
Mundus Patet , tries to describe the way I feel my inner world, to do that I've chosen an ancient celtic/etruscan/roman riatual: the Mundus Patet is not a permormative video, it's sciamanic videoart, the elements are important to its purpose; water, colours (in this case: blue) landscapes, man, and chairs.
The video installation is site-specific and filling space. They are 2 projections that with the right-bottom corner and an upper left are in communication with each other. Seemingly are two different videos with the same formal aspects. However, that is not the case. The videos are identical but each with its own beginning and end.
http://art.waynemadsen.com/waynesart/gen/ghosts.html This is a web based artwork exploring the intersection of generative algorithmic design with user interaction. Using perlin noise allows the artwork to achieve natural, controlled randomness. This piece unfolds in a unique visual every time it is run.
Investigating the stages of dreamspace, and how the conscious and subconscious may connect through dreams. REM showed at the TED2016 "Dream" conference.
In search of meaning, the subject navigates a paradoxical vacuum whose exit is its own entrance, with no way out. Yet the subject persists.
Blind Ambition is a reaction to the hundreds of rejections that artists receive each year from applications. It includes me reading the rejection letters along with images from a dirty car window as I road through the countryside of Macedonia contemplating my future as an artist.
Home is a Privilege is created as an emotional response to the current mass exodus of refugees from Syria who are now barred from entry into the United States because of a recent executive order created by President Trump.
"Skeletons of The God" stands as symbolic representation of constant flux and change. In this video Rasic has captured morning after Visarjan (farewell), on the Mumbai beach Juhu, immersion ceremony of idols of lord Ganesha into the water, that happens once a year. This farewell represents lord Ganeshas merging with the ocean of consciousness.
Giff work part of the Automated Luxury series, played on loop as an online artwork or projection. Critique of society and neoliberalism, inspired by Mark Fisher's - Capitalist realism, is there no alternative?
Shot on VHS, this catalogs the arch and dynamics of a relationship through symbolic storytelling.
STRINGS is drawn in 3D space. It is a abstract animation inspired by String Theory, where all matter in the universe is thought to be made of infinitesimally small strings.
Television is meant to bring the viewer back to a time when TV stations would broadcast within a certain duration of each day ending with broadcast "bars and tones." The composition starts out with the normal broadcast color bars and tones that slowly transform in color adjusted static bars and audio that modulates over time.
An unidentified object is put inside an ostrich ranch and disturbs its peacefulness.The ostriches follow the object in an amused,curious and frightened dance,attempting to figure out how it should be treated, until they destroy it in play or self defense.The ostriches' treatment of the object may be viewed as an analogy to people's treatment of strangers,immigrants and members of other cultures.
the video shows children playing with a propellor hat, attempting to take off as if they were super heroes. The video expresses the children's wish to be heroes and shows kids imaginative belief that they could actually fly, as part of the game. The animals represent the population in need of the super heroes help, and also seem to be excited, and eager to see the brave kids in action.
ANTS IN THE LEGS is an absurdist alien pop image agency of decentered fiction science 'healthy lifestyle choice' scenarios, abstracting the mimetic data economy spectacle.
This is The Biennial Project's fourth time hosting the ArtVenice Biennale at a fabulous reception in Venice during the exclusive week of press previews for the Venice Biennale itself, and then here on our website and blog. With help from our celebrity jurors (all or whom have represented their own country at a previous Venice Biennale) we chose from over 900 entries from 43 states and 26 countries to present to you our biggest and most exciting show yet. Check out the art here, and then click the link above to see all the great non-video work accepted.


Photo: Pull up a pew.
We spent most of our time in Tra Vinh scoffing noodles but we came up close to empty handed on sit down restaurants with an English menu, so pack a phrasebook and be ready to point!
First off we are going to point you to this excellent wrap on Tra Vinh's food at 12am flight. Many of the recommendations are out of town and we didn't have time to get to them, but if you have time (and your own transport) do give the story a good read as some of them sounded terrific.
While it is a bit of a walk from the central hotels, we though the pho (40,000 dong) at Thanh Nha (also does bun bo hue) was worth the walk. You'll find it opposite the bright blue school (look for the blue gates reading Truong Tieu Hoc Minh Tri).
12am flight was a big wrap on Bun Bo Hue 170 which is further west along the road, right before it hits Nguyen Thi Minh Khai (the major north south thoroughfare). We didn't have time to try it, but it was very busy (always a good sign) when we walked past. If you don't want to walk this far for noodles, Hu Tieu 87 on Ly Thong Kiet was more central and good.
Once you are done with your noodles at Thanh Nha, continue west along Tran Phu and you'll hit the gregarious and friendly garden cafe, Kim Son Coffee. The coffee (18,000 dong) was good and we loved the retro sound equipment on display.
For lunch, our top pick is also pilfered from 12am flight—head to Bun Nuoc Leo up on Ly Thong Kiet. The dish is a noodle soup, heavy on mushrooms, served in a very rich fish broth. It comes with crispy pork on the side along with spring rolls a prawn cake and a chunk on congealed blood. This is a heavy dish—don't make the mistake we did and show up only half hungry. Delicious, but come with an empty stomach. Come daytime only as they close up early evening (around 6:30pm).
Come the evening, we didn't stray too far from the market. As the sun falls, a hu tieu and pho place sets up on the pavement at 24 Dien Bien Phu and that was decent. You'll also find a couple of stalls on the street near the market entrance. Also near the market (actually right in front of it) is a cluster of dessert stalls—good for those with a sweet tooth.
Lastly, along Dien Bien Phu, running south from the market you'll find plenty of banh mi carts should you find yourself craving a late night stomach torpedo.
Banh mi carts Along Dien Bien Phu, south of the market ; .
Bun Bo Hue 170 170 Tran Phu, Tra Vinh; .
Bun Nuoc Leo: 45 Ly Thong Kiet, Tra Vinh; .
Dessert stalls In front of Cho Tra Vinh.; .
Hu Tieu (evenings only) 24 Dien Bien Phu, Tra Vinh; .
Hu Tieu 87 87 Ly Thuong Kiet, Tra Vinh; .
Kim Son Coffee 138 Tran Phu, Tra Vinh; T: (0986) 039 039; .
Thanh Nha 194 Tran Phu, Tra Vinh; .
A selection of some of our favourite sights and activities around Tra Vinh.
Last updated on 21st September, 2018.


$39 per box. I have 8 boxes.
5 boxes or more and I'll pay for shipping.
Purchase all 8 boxes and each will be $36 and I pay shipping.
I stumbled across these in my ever-long search for the round.
I will also throw in Ergogrips brand new in box OD Green AR rail covers and brand new in box MFT mag couplers for the AR15.
I've posted this on Glocktalk for higher prices.
I have been looking everywhere for .357 sig HST! If you still have some or can get more please let me know. I'm in San Antonio,TX. Thank you.


text:
Chronology of dispute with documents
Strikers demanding withdrawal of unfair dismissal by JAL
Handbill
Dispute at Japan
JAL Crews Unfairly Dismissed
The new document is here
ILO Fourth Recommendation
May.2018 Now is The Time!
Jan.2017 ILO Request to CFA in relation
Oct.2016 ILO Additional Information
Nov.2015 ILO recommendation
Selection criteria for dismissal
Captain: 55 years and older; Co-pilot: 48 years and older; Cabin crew: 52 years and older
Those who have had limited their flight hours due to medical/personal reasons.
Those who had a sick-leave record during the specified period by the company.
No need of dismissal at all
Regardless of the fact that the number of employees who accepted the voluntary retirement proposal exceeded the initial numerical target for the workforce reduction plan, the JAL management still pushed forward with wrongful dismissal.
JAL (main body):
Target number of voluntary retirees: 1,500;
Actual number of voluntary retirees: 1,733
Cabin Crew:
Target number of voluntary retirees: 570
Actual number of voluntary retirees: 763
Target number of retirees: 130
Actual number of retirees: 154
Despite this outcome, JAL forcibly dismissed 81 pilots including 18 captains and 85 cabin crewmembers.
About JAL dismissal (more info )
renewal 01 Jun.2015
JAL went bankrupt in January of 2010. Company Reconstruction Act was applied and restructuring was undertaken by a court selected administrator. The administrator formulated the restructuring plan and obtained court approval. The plan was to reduce the size of the JAL group to approximately two-third. The employee number was to be reduced from 48,000 to 32,000. Obviously the pilots and cabin crews were also to be reduced but dismissal was not in the plan. However the administrator made redundant 81 pilots and 84 cabin crews on 31 December 2010 saying that pilots and cabin crews were the only jobs not meeting the reduction target numbers.
The union carried out a right to strike vote in protest of this dismissal but received interference by the company through unfair labor actions. As a result, among the pilots laid off were the chairman of the then ALPA Japan, committee chairman, deputy director of IND and furthermore chairman of aviation labor union liaison committee and chairman of aviation safety council. This was a clear illegal act to remove the activist of the labor union and had a big influence on the negotiation to secure the safety of aviation in Japan.
In order to resolve these issues a statement was submitted by IFALPA, ECA, OCCC and ITF to the Japanese government and JAL but remained ignored and this can be said to be an act against international etiquette. Furthermore recommendations were offered twice by the Freedom of Association Committee of ILO. This, as well, was being ignored. The pilots who have been made redundant appealed to the court of the invalidity of the dismissal in January 2011 but lost the case at the Tokyo District Court, lost the case at the Tokyo High Court and the final appeal was rejected at the Supreme Court in February 2015.
This trial was the first case in Japan in which a big company has gone bankrupt and the validity of a dismissal during the restructuring process while receiving support by the country was in question. However the trial was very unfair since despite proving the employee number at the time of dismissal and the intervening actions against the right to strike it was not taken up. In contrast a statement was issued by Japan Lawyers Association for Freedom group of Japanese lawyers protesting the judiciary and supporting our movement. At the same time statement of support are being issued by various labor unions.
We will continue to do our best back to JAL, and also call for continued support from all of you.
Demanding Right and Humanly Decision
Following the JAL philosophy: "Doing what is right as a human being" --- Base criteria for decision-making
We, 165 pilots and cabin crew members of Japan Airlines (JAL), were dismissed on New Year's Eve 2010.
This forcible redundancy was taken place based on a discriminative age and sick-leave record in the past.
We demand the company to retract the wrongful dismissal and restore our jobs immediately.
We'll be back
© 2023 by FinancialServices. Proudly created with Wix.com


ISLAMABAD (92 News) – Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) chief Sirajul Haq has on Friday said that today is a historic day as the Supreme Court was set to announce a new judgment that could topple Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif who is embroiled in a long-running corruption case that has gripped the country.
Talking to media in Islamabad on Friday, he said that we admit that instead of accountability, the accountability organizations played a role of the facilitator for the country's corrupt people.
The JI chief said that it would be the first step towards the process of accountability if the Supreme Court gave verdict against Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif. "We have been appearing before the court for the last one year," he added.
Sirajul Haq said that 435 people were named in the Panama Papers, adding that the process of accountability would be made fruitful.


WWE Survivor Series happened last night and although he's not around very often anymore, Chris Jericho is always on top of things and usually knows what's going on in WWE. He sent out a congrats message to WWE following Survivor Series for making women's wrestling the "hottest thing in WWE." Then he asked who is headlining WrestleMania while tagging Becky Lynch and Ronda Rousey.
Becky Lynch obviously saw the mention from Jericho and she replied to his statement by saying: "Nope, that was me," referring to spearheading the recent focus on the women's roster in WWE, especially on the SmackDown Brand.
Jericho replied back in his usual fashion saying: "Yes for sure! With an assist to Nia Jax for breaking your face of course." This did not sit well with The Man.
It looks like Y2J might have created an enemy he didn't see coming when he sent out that original tweet congratulating WWE for their focus on women's wrestling. Because what happened instead sparked the aggressions of The Man herself.


Average 5/5 out of 32 total votes.
An adaptation of Mao Ni's award-winning novel. Ning Que and his maidservant SangSang have relied on each other since they were young, and have found themselves in the remote military border town of Wei City, where Ning Que has made a name for himself as being crafty and ruthless. The arrival of an unexpected guest and the recommendation of the Wei City commander brings the two of them on a path to the capital city of Chang'An, as Ning Que pursues his long-awaited desire to become a practitioner...and to seek revenge.
Jiang Ye 55 : Is the Lord High Priest of the Tang Empire All That Great?


I plan to have one of my good friends over for breakfast and coffee today in celebration of her birthday.
I'm making my all-time favorite pastry: cranberry orange scones. She wasn't available for consultation when it came down to figuring out what to make for breakfast.
UPDATE: This post was written before we ditched coffee creamer. Here's why we no longer drink the stuff, plus some new ideas to flavor coffee.
I haven't always been a pastry-making-momma. I don't have one of those pastry blender thingies that recipes say to use, so on my first pastry recipe I tried using two forks. Fail #1. On the second recipe I tried using a whisk. Fail #2. For the third, two knives. Fail #3 and a "you win" to the butter. For years I avoided all recipes involving a step to "cut in the fat" and that was just fine with me. Having to "cut in the fat" was scary and intimidating!
Until one day Mr. Crumbs REALLY wanted biscuits. Running out to buy Bisquick or Pillsbury or ANY instant biscuit for that matter wasn't an option. I begged and I pleaded – please don't make me cut the fat! I can't do it! I'm SO BAD at it! I got the puppy eyes in return and caved. Fine. I'll cut the fat.
I knew that forks, whisks and knives were no match for this cold butter, so I had only one option left: my bare hands. I squeezed and squished the butter, quickly and carefully tossing it with the flour in order to follow the "don't create a paste or let the butter melt!" order that recipes barked at me. A couple minutes later yielded me with a mixture that resembled breadcrumbs – SUCCESS!
The biscuits were delicious (and by far the best biscuit EVER according to my husband) and I had overcome my fear of cutting in the fat. Take THAT butter! Ha HA!
This cranberry orange scones recipe is absolutely delicious and suitable for both those who are cutting-the-fat-challenged, and those who have mastered it. I always use fresh cranberries (frozen and leftover from Thanksgiving) and orange juice concentrate (because it's easier to have on hand than orange zest). Serve with fresh hot coffee and enjoy!
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder and salt.
When the mixture looks like coarse breadcrumbs, add in the cranberries and orange zest and toss to coat with flour. Whisk the egg and cream together in another bowl and add all at once to the flour mixture. Mix gently with a spatula until it becomes gooey, then form the mixture into a ball using your hands and knead it gently against the sides and bottom of the bowl (5-10 times or so), taking care not to squish too many cranberries in the process. You want a good looking ball of dough in a bowl that's fairly clean.
Break off a small fistful of dough, shape into a ball and place onto an un-greased cookie sheet. Leave about 2 inches between each ball for expansion. Brush the tops with cream/milk and sprinkle cinnamon and sugar on top. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cranberry orange scones are golden brown along the edges.
* If you're challenged at cutting in the fat too, leave out the butter and egg and increase the heavy cream to 1 cup.
* Another fun variation is to use eggnog in place of the heavy cream. Follow the original recipe for a hint of 'nog flavor, or use the variation above for a full-bodied eggnog scone!
I have to say they are truly delicious scones and I am so glad you overcame the cutting-the-fat- challenge! Thank you for such a special message and for being a wonderful friend! You truly are a wonderful caring person and I cherish you and our friendship!
I'm so glad you liked them! Happy Birthday!
yum! i want these. now.
How much orange juice concentrate do you use? Thanks!
Sorry about that Jenny! I use approx 2 tsp.
I'm going to try these tomorrow. My grocery store used to have them between Halloween and New Year's and now they only have them two weeks before Halloween. I haven't been happy since they made this change. Blueberry or Pumpkin are NOT an acceptable substitute.
I agree. Hope you can find enough cranberries to stock up on!