What is their relationship with the world?
Why can they not be like other people?
CHRISTIANS live in the world but are no part of it. In the first century the Roman world found this difficult to understand. Christians would not worship as it did, observe its holidays, participate in its politics, burn incense to its Caesar, fight in its armies or participate in its deeds of loose conduct. For this separateness from the world the people hated and persecuted them. It mattered not to the world of that time that the Christians were peaceable, law-abiding and of the highest morals.
How could Christians be obedient to God if they had permitted themselves to become part of the Roman world, engaging in its idolatrous celebrations, its licentious feasts, its bloody games and its selfish pursuits? People who became Christians had to change their way of thinking and living. They had to put on a new personality. Paul pointed this out when he told Christians in Ephesus: "You should put away the old personality which conforms to your former course of conduct." (Eph. 4:22) That former course of conduct was acceptable with the world but it was not acceptable with God.
When writing to the Christians in Galatia, Paul mentioned some of the works of the flesh that made up their former course of conduct while part of the world. He said: "The works of the flesh are manifest, and they are fornication, uncleanness, loose conduct, idolatry, practice of spiritism, hatreds, strife, jealousy, fits of anger, contentions, divisions, sects, envies, drunken bouts, revelries, and things like these." Since these things are contrary to the righteous principles of God's Word, the person who became a Christian had to leave them behind when he put on a new personality that was acceptable to God. Paul continues and says: "As to these things I am forewarning you, the same way as I did forewarn you, that those who practice such things will not inherit God's kingdom." (Gal. 5:19-21) Peter gave somewhat similar counsel.
To persons who turned their back on the world to follow the Christian way of life, Peter said: "The time that has passed by is sufficient for you to have worked out the will of the nations when you proceeded in deeds of loose conduct, lusts, excesses with wine, revelries, drinking matches, and illegal idolatries." This change made them so very different that persons in the Roman world who knew them before they became Christians were puzzled. Peter goes on to mention this. "Because you do not continue running with them in this course to the same low sink of debauchery, they are puzzled and go on speaking abusively of you." (1 Pet. 4:3, 4) Their conduct set them apart from the world of that time. They followed the example set for them by Jesus Christ.
The Leader of Christianity did not lose self-control over fleshly desires as did the people of the world. He did not engage in the hatreds, prejudices and acts of violence of that time. He did not participate in politics, making himself indirectly responsible for the wicked deeds of the Roman government. He was refreshingly different from the corrupt world. This separateness was what he expected of his followers. On one occasion he said: "They are no part of the world, just as I am no part of the world."—John 17:16.
The passing of more than 1900 years has not altered the world as regards its bad thinking, its unrighteous conduct and its violent actions. The apostle Paul foretold this when he said: "Know this, that in the last days critical times hard to deal with will be here. For men will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, self-assuming, haughty, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, disloyal, having no natural affection, not open to any agreement, slanderers, without self-control, fierce, without love of goodness, betrayers, headstrong, puffed up with pride, lovers of pleasures rather than lovers of God." (2 Tim. 3:1-4) How can Christians today be like this and still expect the approval of God? He has not changed his standards from what they were in the first century. He still requires Christians to be like Christ and not like the world.
Any person striving to be a Christian today must be different from the world. How can he live as it does and still claim to be following the example of Christ? How can he conform with the world's unrighteous works of the flesh and still live by good Christian principles?
What the apostle Paul said about the world of his day applies equally as well today. Addressing Christians, he said: "This, therefore, I say and bear witness to in the Lord, that you no longer go on walking just as the nations also walk in the unprofitableness of their minds. Having come to be past all moral sense, they gave themselves over to loose conduct to work uncleanness of every sort with greediness. But you did not learn the Christ to be so." (Eph. 4:17, 19, 20) That means Christians must be different, not in dress, but in their way of life.
The bad fruitage of the world reflects the influence of the one who is its invisible ruler. That ruler is not the righteous Prince of Peace who set an example for Christians by being separate from the world. Neither is he the heavenly Father whose righteous laws guide Christian conduct. Paul states that this ruler blinds people to Christian truths. "The god of this system of things has blinded the minds of the unbelievers, that the illumination of the glorious good news about the Christ, who is the image of God, might not shine through." (2 Cor. 4:4) The apostle John identified him by saying: "The whole world is lying in the power of the wicked one." (1 John 5:19) The world's wicked fruits mirror the traits of its wicked, invisible ruler, the chief enemy of Jehovah God. How can a Christian seek to be acceptable to the world and its ruler and still expect to be acceptable to God?
The road of Christianity and the road of the world are separate roads heading in different directions. A Christian cannot walk both roads at the same time. He cannot have love for God and also love for a system that violates God's laws, ignores his counsel, opposes his purposes and persecutes his servants. If he loves the world, it is impossible for him to have love for God. John pointed this out when he said: "Do not be loving either the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him." (1 John 2:15) Having love for the Father automatically makes the Christian different from the world because he seeks to obey the laws of God. By staying on this road he can avoid the fate of the world.
John indicates the destiny of the world by saying: "The world is passing away and so is its desire, but he that does the will of God remains forever." (1 John 2:17) Since the world and its wrong desires are passing away, we must conclude that those who walk that road will pass away with it. Jesus indicated this when he said: "Broad and spacious is the road leading off into destruction, and many are the ones going in through it." (Matt. 7:13) It is God's purpose to destroy the worldly system of things and its wicked invisible ruler.
The road to life is the road of loyal devotion and obedience to Jehovah God. It is the way of love for God and love for neighbor. It is the way of Scriptural principles and good Christian conduct. The person who loves justice and what is right will follow this road although it makes him different from the world. He will realize that the approval of the righteous Ruler of the universe is of far greater benefit to him and much more to be desired than the approval of an unrighteous and hateful world. His desire will be to conform with true Christianity rather than with the world.


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James S. Lynch
Arthur V. Lynch
Brian A. Held
Michael S. Rosenberg
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What to Know About Filing an Injury Claim While Pregnant
Posted on behalf of Lynch Law Firm on April 11, 2022 in Car Accidents News
If a pregnant woman is involved in a car crash, she is at a greater risk of suffering a severe injury. Even minor car accidents that would generally cause only minor injuries could cause a pregnant woman serious harm.
Due to the severity of the injuries pregnant women may experience in a crash, it is important to seek legal help without delay. It can benefit you to have a knowledgeable legal representative on your side who is prepared to help you recover maximum compensation.
Our New Jersey car accident lawyers have decades of experience helping injury victims pursue the compensation they need. During that time, we have successfully recovered millions on behalf of our clients. The consultation is free and there are no upfront fees.
WHAT ARE THE RISKS ASSOCIATED WITH CAR ACCIDENTS AND PREGNANCY?
According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), motor vehicle accidents are a leading cause of injury and death for expectant mothers. The risks for serious injury increase throughout each trimester of pregnancy. In the U.S., roughly 200,000 pregnant women are involved in a crash every year.
There are some increased risks for greater injury in a crash during the first twelve weeks of pregnancy. However, the possibility for severe maternal or fetal trauma grows by 42 percent in the second trimester, increasing the likelihood of a pregnant woman suffering:
Placental abruption
Loss of fetus
Preterm delivery
Hemorrhaging
Women in their third trimester of pregnancy are more likely to experience serious injuries and complications during delivery, including:
Excessive bleeding
Direct fetal trauma
Uterine rupture
Maternal shock
These types of extensive injuries may require induced labor, resulting in the premature birth of a child. Depending on how far along you are in your pregnancy, your child could experience life-long health complications or death shortly after a live birth.
WHAT COMPENSATION MAY BE AVAILABLE FOR PREGNANT INJURY VICTIMS?
Car crash injuries pregnant women experience may require immediate and long-term medical care, such as:
Ambulatory services
Gynecology visits
Obstetrical consultation
Fetal assessment tests
You have the right to pursue compensation for costs related to the crash as these medical treatments and services are not free or cheap.
As a no-fault state, New Jersey injury victims must first file a claim with their own insurance company to recover compensation for economic damages, like medical bills. However, if those damages are more than your coverage limits, you may be able to pursue compensation from the at-fault driver's liability insurance.
Pregnant injury victims may also be able to claim compensation for their non-economic damages from the liability insurance policy. This includes things like pain and suffering.
New Jersey does not allow pregnant injury victims to file a wrongful death claim for their unborn fetus. However, you may be able to recover compensation for your emotional damages if the crash caused you to suffer a miscarriage.
Pregnant accident victims whose babies are born alive but die due to injuries associated with the accident may be able to file a wrongful death claim in New Jersey.
CAN I FILE A LAWSUIT IF I AM INJURED IN A CRASH WHILE PREGNANT?
Whether you can file a lawsuit in New Jersey after a car accident may depend on your insurance coverage. Drivers who have a basic policy may not have the right to sue for non-economic damages. They may only be able to recover compensation for their economic costs through their own Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance. Those who have standard coverage may choose a limited right to sue policy to reduce premium costs. Only drivers with a standard policy and the unlimited right to sue option have the ability to file a lawsuit. With this coverage, injury victims may pursue compensation for the damages suffered in an accident caused by someone else's negligence.
However, there are some exceptions to these rules about who has the right to sue. Pregnant injury victims with a basic policy or a limited right to sue option may still be able to file a lawsuit if the crash resulted in the loss of a fetus.
Therefore, if you are injured in a crash and suffer a miscarriage as a result, you may be able to file a lawsuit. If eligible, you would be able to pursue compensation for your economic and non-economic damages.
CALL A KNOWLEDGEABLE ATTORNEY TODAY
If you or a loved one were injured in an accident while pregnant, you should speak to an attorney as soon as possible. Our attorneys know the law and are ready to help you file a claim to pursue the compensation you need.
We do not charge you anything while we work on your case, and we only get paid if we win.
Call (800) 518-0508 to schedule a free consultation.
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As a victim of an accident I was turned down by other law firms that though I did not have a case, or that my case was too small.
Lynch Law Firm, on the other hand, opened up their doors and gave me all support I needed – and more.
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Honestly, Lynch Law Firm are great to deal with them . They deal with your case as it's their personal one, and they treat you as family members not regular client.They did great job with my wife car accident injury case... God bless all.
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Very friendly staff. Attorneys are way to reach, kept me well informed Happy with the outcome.
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Ultimately its results we all want, and not to mention the timing to get those results.The Lynch firm were incredible in our whole process from the very beginning.... It is to no surprise we highly endorse the Lynch Law Firm.
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Product :: Hydraulic Gauges | Hydraulic Supply Company Hydraulic Supply Co.
Gauges have a primary function in a hydraulic system to measure and display the pressure onen the system so one may assess the performance of the equipment. Gauges are indispensable in troubleshooting systems. This fluid intensity measurement device helps to indicate malfunctions of the equipment. Hydraulic pressure gauges are available in a variety of types and are designed to measure up to 15,000 psi.
At Hydraulic Supply Company, we carry a large selection gauges so you can find the right component for your application.


Did you ever wonder why National Nurses Week is not just a standing celebration on the second week of May? Instead it always starts on May 6th and always ends on May 12th – how come?
The team here at CareNational is grateful for all the hard work and compassion demonstrated by all healthcare workers everywhere, every day. And while we work with both clinical and non-clinical professionals in health care services roles, since it is National Nurses Week we especially wanted to express our gratitude to all the wonderful nurses (LPNs/LVNs, RNs, and NPs) who work in our specialized niche of Medical Management, or Managed Care. In many ways our work here is its own reward, as we get to partner with nursing professionals looking to grow their careers in the fields of Case Management, Utilization Management, Quality Management, and Reimbursement Management.Did you ever wonder why National Nurses Week is not just a standing celebration on the second week of May? Instead it always starts on May 6th and always ends on May 12th – how come?
It's because Florence Nightingale was born in Florence, Italy on May 12th,1820. During the Crimean War (1853-1856) Ms. Nightingale organized a corps of nurses to care for soldiers, which began her foray into the world of medical care and treatment. Her contributions to nursing, nurse education, and to hospital reform were all significant achievements, particularly for a 19th century English woman. Known as "The Lady with the Lamp," her work inspired both public support and royal recognition. On August 13th 1910, at the age of 90, she died peacefully in her sleep.
It might be daunting to be weighed against Florence Nightingale, but your dedication, commitment to service, and past experiences makes each of you a hero in our eyes.


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RegaloCard Adds Largest Supermarket Chain in El Salvador to Its Mobile Payments Network
Super Selectos Partners with RegaloCard Allowing Salvadorans to Instantly Send Free Micro Money Transfers for as Little as $10 to Buy Groceries.
Doral, FL, March 26, 2010 --(PR.com)-- RegaloCard, RegaloCard.com, a global mobile payments company that has developed a free and instant replacement to costly money transfer services announced today that Super Selectos, the largest supermarket chain in El Salvador, has joined the RegaloCard Mobile Payments Network. RegaloCard, through its proprietary mobile payments platform and unique business model, has created a new product category the "micro money transfer" allowing consumers to send instantly and for free as little as $10, directed to specific uses. The RegaloCard service works with any mobile phone and carrier worldwide and is as easy to use as a prepaid calling card.
Groceries are one of the top items for which immigrants send money back home and Super Selectos is the largest grocery store chain in El Salvador with an extensive network of supermarkets in numerous formats spanning all regions and demographic groups. Gregory Keough, Chairman and CEO of RegaloCard stated, "Salvadorans sent home roughly $3.8 Billion Dollars last year, which represents 18% of the country's GDP, of which a substantial portion goes towards the purchase of everyday grocery items. RegaloCard allows consumers to send as little as $10 to their families instantly and for free, while at the same time assuring that the money they send is used to purchase groceries something that is impossible with current money transfer services."
Consumers have shown a clear preference for RegaloCards micro money transfers allowing for smaller more frequent transactions, something the RegaloCard service has made feasible for the first time. Latin American retailers continue to join the RegaloCard Mobile Payments Network at an ever increasing pace with RegaloCard announcing ten new retail members since the beginning of the year.
About RegaloCard: RegaloCard, RegaloCard.com, is a global mobile payments company that has developed a free and instant replacement to costly money transfer services. RegaloCard, through its proprietary mobile payments platform and unique business model, has created the "micro money transfer" allowing consumers to send instantly and for free as little as $10, directed to specific uses, while earning a greater margin then traditional money transfer companies. RegaloCard is a prepaid gift card that immigrants can buy in the United States, but is delivered instantly to the person chosen in the immigrant's home country, to make purchases at leading local retailers. The RegaloCard service works with any mobile phone and carrier worldwide and is as simple to use as a prepaid calling card. For more information visit RegaloCard.com.
Sofia Alvarenga
Director Partner and Media Relations
Email: salvarenga@RegaloCard.com
www.regalocard.com
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Greens welcome Auckland walking and cycling bridge, call for more climate focus
Posted by Julie Anne Genter June 04, 2021 10:02 AM
The Green Party is welcoming the Government's renewed commitment to safe walking and cycling across the Waitematā Harbour, but warning that new highway investment puts our response to the climate change emergency at risk.
"Rebalancing the NZ Upgrade investment to more rail and safe walking and cycling is a positive step, but this programme still puts way too much money into a few over-specced highways. The Government must take this opportunity to invest in transformational inter-regional rail services, public transport and safer walking and cycling infrastructure in communities," Green Party Transport spokesperson Julie Anne Genter said.
"We are fast running out of time to address the climate emergency, and right now we must be focused on investing in low-carbon transport rather than pouring more money into a few over-priced sprawl-inducing stretches of motorway.
"The Transport Minister's clear commitment to safe cycling across the Waitemata Harbour is welcome, as is his clear direction to Waka Kotahi to seriously investigate simple, interim solutions like using existing lanes on the Harbour Bridge. Many Aucklanders are embracing cycling and have been waiting too long for action.
"We would like to see the option of a dedicated rapid transit crossing considered with the new bridge for walking and cycling.
"It's good to see the Government rebalancing and scaling back some of the initial highway projects, such as Mill Road, and better investment in rail around Whangarei and Marsden Point. But overall this won't go far enough to make a substantial difference to our transport emissions.
"The most expensive highways in this package will encourage more driving and urban sprawl, which is not only bad for the climate but also takes over highly productive food-growing land near our major cities.
"We need to go further and faster on climate action. It would make a much bigger difference to our communities, productivity and our climate if this money was invested in rail, buses, and cycling and walking paths. In other countries we can see that building rail creates more jobs than building roads, and that could happen in Aotearoa too if the Government made difference choices.
"We have to set up the infrastructure to move towards a community that is net zero carbon. Building more of the same with expensive urban highways will not solve congestion, or address safety on our rural roads that need investment."
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The Green Party said the Government's decision to scrap the Northern Pathway highlights the need for urgent, people-centred transport options.
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Larry Gaydos - Gaydos Duffer, P.C.
For more than 30 years, Larry Gaydos has represented public and private companies, their executives, and Audit Committees in federal and state government investigations involving numerous government agencies including the Department of Justice, the Securities Exchange Commission, the Department of Defense, the Environmental Protection Agency, the Department of Agriculture, Homeland Security, the Internal Revenue Service, the Texas Attorney General's office, as well as the United States Senate and the United States House of Representatives.
Larry conducts internal corporate investigations, represents clients before government agencies, coordinates with outside auditors and litigates in both civil and criminal courts. While his clients come from many diverse business areas, his representations include many prominent national corporations in the energy field and defense industry. He has extensive experience in federal civil and criminal litigation, antitrust, federal securities, defense procurement, foreign trade, environmental, and general criminal matters. His clients have included many large private corporations and Fortune 500 companies including AT&T, Exxon, Hillwood, L-3 Communications, Bell/Textron, Enbridge, Nexen, Bank of America, Owens Corning, Hillenbrand, Valero, and American Airlines.
Larry is a distinguished graduate of the United States Military Academy at West Point and served as an officer in the Army Corps of Engineers and the Judge Advocate General's Corps for 13 years. At the Army's Judge Advocate General's School in Charlottesville, Virginia, he taught a wide variety of criminal law courses including advanced trial advocacy, pretrial investigations, and professional ethics to military attorneys, military judges, and Senior/General Officer Commanders. He also served as the advisor to the Army Judge Advocate General on ethics and professional disciplinary issues. Larry left military duty in 1986 as a Major.
After his military service he worked for 30 years at Haynes and Boone, LLP where he was a Partner, cofounder of the White Collar Criminal Law practice group and member of the Board of Directors, the Sarbanes-Oxley Committee, and the Firm's Professional Responsibility Committee. In private practice he also served as a Regional Chair of the American Bar Association White Collar Crime Committee and Chair of the State Bar of Texas Antitrust and Business Litigation Section. He was recognized as a Texas Super Lawyer (by Thomson Reuters) in 2013 in the areas of Antitrust Litigation, White Collar Criminal Defense, and Corporate Governance and Compliance. He is past President and a current Board Director of the Arlington Bar Association.
Larry met his wife, Joanne, at the 1971 Army Navy game (Army won) in Philadelphia. They got married in 1973, four days after he graduated from West Point. They have two great children (Lauren and Andrew) and two fantastic grandsons (Brody and Blake). Their favorite getaways are Aruba and Key West. Beat Navy!
Representation of the CEO of a waste disposal company in criminal and civil litigation concerning state and federal environmental issues (water).
Internal investigation for the audit committee of a Canadian petroleum industry company regarding securities issues.
Internal investigation for the board of directors of an international petroleum company regarding foreign corrupt practice issues in South America.
Defense of the CFO of a defense industry company on allegations of procurement fraud.
Internal investigation for the audit committee of an international petroleum industry company regarding securities fraud and foreign corrupt practice issues in Mexico.
Representation of a multinational defense industry client in federal civil litigation regarding antitrust and intellectual property issues.
Defense of a CFO of a foreign subsidiary of a multinational oil company in a Brazilian criminal tax case.
Representation of a Texas law firm in state civil litigation against another law firm regarding breach of fiduciary duty and breach of contract claims.
Defense of a national manufacturing company in federal civil litigation regarding monopolization and predatory pricing claims.
Counseling clients and conducting internal investigations for Audit Committees and Boards of Directors regarding stock option backdating issues.
Defense of a construction industry CEO in a DOJ public corruption investigation.
Defense of an oil industry client on allegations of nationwide price fixing.
Defense of a financial analyst in a parallel IRS and DOJ tax investigation.
Defense of an energy company on allegation of price fixing and monopolization.
Defense of individuals in a Homeland Security criminal investigation.
Representation of the board of directors of a health care company in parallel SEC and DOJ investigations.
Internal investigation for the board of directors of an international travel industry company regarding securities issues.
Defense of a technology company on allegations of procurement fraud.
Internal corporate investigation for a large national manufacturing company concerning state and federal environmental issues (air).
Internal investigation for the audit committee of an international drilling and exploration company regarding securities issues.
Internal investigations for the audit committee of a national telecommunications industry client regarding whistleblower allegations and securities issues.
Internal investigation for the audit committee of a foreign petroleum company regarding securities issues.
Representation of the CEO of a national computer technology company in an internal investigation.
Representation of the CEO and GC of a national technology company in a SEC investigation and civil litigation concerning stock option issues.
Representation of two retail clients as plaintiffs in a multi-national class action MDL price-fixing case.
Representation of key witnesses in the public corruption investigations of the Dallas City Council, the Mayor of New Orleans, the Mayor Pro Tem of Houston, and Dallas County Commissioner John Wiley Price.
Representation of a key witness in the United States House of Representatives, United States Senate, and DOJ Inspector General investigations regarding Operation Fast and Furious.
Internal investigation for the audit committees of a Canadian energy company and its United States subsidiary regarding whistleblower allegations and securities issues.


That's all she has to say. She doesn't say much. Apparently she doesn't like awkward situations. Go figure. I smiled at the thought. I rose to my feet and patted the tree with a quick apology. "Sorry tree." I walked off. Not towards the barn, but towards the town. Mostly because I was hungry. I trailed a small 1960's built truck for a while before stopping into a coffee house. I licked my lips and inhaled the deep, alluring scents. Scones, coffee, cookies, cupcakes and other treats filled my nose. The scent made my mouth water. I decided to pick something out for Stephanie. She had witnessed a temper-tantrum of mine. It was the least I could do. I walked out with two coffees, and two scones. I brought them back to the barn.
Coffee? Stephanie sniffed at the air curiously. 'Why would there be coffee in an abandoned barn?' she thought. She scanned the surrounding areas when she spotted Nay with coffee and scones. A faint smile flickered across her face and she rose to her feet. "I was wondering where you went..." she said as she strolled over. Her hands were behind her back and she was rocking back and forth on her heels with a wide grin. She then spun around and gestured to the two piles of hay. "Beds...one for me and one for you. There wasn't really enough hay to make two, but I did my best," she explained.
Hay. Brilliant. "Well, I have connections. I could get us a hotel room." I rubbed the back of my neck. I had forgotten about my connections. Then I realized what I said. Hotel room? That sounded...perverted. I hope she didn't think I just wanted...nevermind. I blushed thinking of the thought. Then I shifted my weight onto the other foot uncomfortabley. Was it just me, or was it getting hot? I tugged on the collar of my shirt.
Stephanie frowned as she watched Nay fan his shirt. "Are you okay? Maybe you do have a fever..." she said, taking a step towards him. "Come on...let's get a room somewhere. I'll tend to you there and make sure you don't get sicker," she said. She handed him her scone. "Here...you should eat something," she said with a concerned expression. She then gently took his hand, leading him out of the barn. "Don't want you sleeping in a dirty old barn in you're sick..." she said. "And I hope you don't mind...I might just stay in your room. It's cheaper that way. But don't worry, I'll sleep on the floor or in a chair or something," she said with a reassuring smile.
I sighed, "I'm not running a fever. I'm not sick. And yes we'll get a hotel." I sighed again. I closed my eyes while I continued blushing, "I like like you. Ever since the moment I saw you. And please, gods, don't sleep on the floor. That's my job." I smiled and practically floated out of the barn. Leading me to sneeze. Hey, it wasn't my fault it was dusty in here. I took a sip of coffee and looked at her to see if she was following.
Stephanie blinked, staying glued in her spot. "Wait....what?" she asked in a completely stunned tone. How could someone know that this quickly? It baffled her. "So...you knew this right when you saw me? How? You've known me for what...a day? I can't even tell these things.." she said, sinking down to the ground. She was obviously thoroughly confused. It felt as though someone had taken her head and used it in a game of spin-the-bottle. She clutched chunks of her hair, her thoughts roaring through her mind in a deafening tone.
"I like you." I said slowly. "Even though I've only known you for a day, I can just tell. Being sensitive and having good hearing comes with being a son of Euterpe, y'know." I pointed out walking over to her. I slunk down next to her and draped my arm around her shoulders. Like a friend. A caring, hot, friend. As I watched her clutch her hair, I wondered if she was torn about this. Probably. I wondered if she got headaches. Like I did.
Stephanie loosened her grip on her hair and looked over at Nay. "Can..." her voice trailed off as her gaze met his. Her cheeks flushed a deep shade of scarlet and she quickly averted her gaze. She frowned, fiddling with her yarn head band awkwardly. Her heart felt as though it was going to escape from her chest it was beating so quickly. "Let me just try something..." she said. Without waiting for a response, she hesitantly leaned towards him and gently pressed her lips to his. She wasn't sure how else she'd know if she had feelings for him...he was never able to tell what she wanted unless she experienced it first hand. As her heart began to flutter and she caught her breath she knew her answer. Rather than speaking, she deepened the kiss, intertwining her fingers with his.
Er...let me go over her ever-changing emotions. At the beach she was a little silly and happy. On the dragon after I sky-dived she punched me out of anger. Then after she punched me she was full of melancholy. Then I think she might have been jealous with Melanie and scared of me when I had a fight with a tree. Then she was happy again when I brought her a treat from a bakery, finally she was confused and then anxious while kissing me. Hm, I could get used to this. Kisses and ever-changing pretty girls. I could really really get used to this. Now she was kissing me, intertwining our fingers. I wrapped my free arm around her neck and pulled her closer.
"Bloody mother of my mother's mother." A very familar voice said behind me. I unlocked my lips and turned around slowly to see the handsome and almost identical, to mine, face of Wesley O'Neil. Halfblood. My brother. He smiled and shook his perfect blonde hair. His ice green eyes sparkled with something I couldn't place a finger upon.
Stephanie pursed her lips as she looked up. Her eyes widened a bit. "No way...it can't be that easy.." she said. Scrambling to her feet she walked over to Wesley she hesitantly poked his arm. "Yep...he's there. ONe down," she said, taking her seat beside Nay again. She glanced quickly between the two. "You two look alike..." she said simply.
Penelope walked into the barn after Wesley, her eyes widening a bit as she saw. Wesley's younger brother? What was he doing here? "Nathaniel?" she said in an astonished voice. She turned to Wesley, gently nudging his arm. "Did you know they were here?" she asked curiously. Her hair was cropped shorter now, above shoulder length. It was still fiery red but now had some lighter tones from more time out in bright sun.
~Nahh...I'm too lazy. Gosh, I want Penelope to say something about his blushing. xD It'd be funny.
"Penelope!" I exclaimed blushing furiously. Almost as red as Wesley was when he saw Stephanie and I kissing. "How is Johnny?" I asked trying to change the subject. I rubbed my arm nervously, my face still red. "Of course we look alike. We're full brothers. And two-year apart twins." I smiled nervously taking Stephanie's hand. Wesley said nothing.
Stephanie raised her hands up in defeat. "Stephanie!" she exclaimed. She noticed the girl's confused look and she shrugged her shoulder. "What? Everyone was saying names...I felt left out.." she explained with a sheepish smile. She then turned to Nay, slowly nodding her head. "Well that explains the resemblance then, doesn't it?" she said with a small laugh.
Penelope chuckled, looking over at Wesley. "You two have similar taste in girls then...screaming my name is something I would do," she said, playfully nudging Wesley. Turning to her brother-in-law she nodded her head. "He's good. We found a distant cousin of mine who's also a demigod. He takes care of him if we're needed to do something dangerous," she explained. "But usually we care for him ourselves," she added with a proud smile.
"Well, do you two know of any good hote-"
"Quit making me blush! Nathaniel Michael O'Neil!" Wesley interrupted as a violent shade of purple-scarlet crossed his face. "You know she still makes fun of me. I'm just surprised she lost count." Wesley kissed her forehead.
"Lovebirds..." I grumbled. Wes and I had always been the competitive type. Never over girls though. Well there was that one time with Genivieve and Danielle. But that was three years ago when Wesley and I were young, stupid lads. I smiled remembering the good times of teasing girls and our voices cracking and going to the beach in the summer.
Stephanie glanced over at Nay with a curious expression. She placed a hand on his shoulder before she rose to her feet. "I'm Stephanie, Daughter of Psyche," she said, sticking out her hand for them to shake if they wished. "Nay and I...we were going to go searching for a few people. Wesley is it? You were one of them.." she said simply. She smiled faintly at the two, seeing how in love they were. She heard Nay grumble about it and she frowned. Without waiting for a response from either of them, she walked back over to Nay's side and gently grasped his hand, giving it a reassuring squeeze.
Penelope grinned. "I lost count after you reached fifty on our first date," she added. She rose up on her toes a bit, giving Wesley a peck on the cheek. She then turned to the girl that had introduced herself as Stephanie. "Penelope...Daughter of Zeus," she said simply. She reached out, giving Steph's hand a shake before she let her own drop back to her side.
"I didn't think it was that high." Wesley mumbled as his face turned slightly less red. "Wesley O'Neil, son of Euterpe, you probably our father, St-" I cut Wesley off with a punch to the stomach. Gods, she didn't need to know yet. I glared at the stomach-rubbing Wesley who returned the glare with ease. When Stephanie squeezed my hand, I wondered what that meant. Does she like me, or what? Girls, pfft. One minute they punch you in the jaw, then they are kissing you and holding your hand.
Stephanie glanced curiously between the two brothers, feeling completely confused as to what they were talking about. She opened her mouth to ask, but she decided against it. 'Guess he doesn't want to tell me..' she thought simply. She looked over at Penelope a moment before her gaze flickered back to Nay. "So..." her voice trailed off awkwardly.
Penelope gestured between Nathaniel and Stephanie with her index finger. "So...are you two dating?" she asked in pure curiosity. She looked over at Wesley then at Nathaniel, looking for his response.
Yes you can tell her.
If you really like her, you can and will.
I will mess up your hair.
You have to tell her!
While Wesley and I were arguing, Penelope and Stephanie were having a conversation of their own. I heard Penelope ask something about Stephanie and I dating. "No, we aren't dating." Yet. We didn't really know each other. I didn't know her favorite anything, what was her last name again? Seee?!
Stephanie watched the silent conversation with intrigue before she turned to Penelope. "Are they always like this?" she asked, arching an eyebrow. She herself, didn't like not knowing things. It always gave her a headache. Stephanie reached up, gently rubbing her temples a bit.
Penelope nodded her head. "Yep, they are. They're always...just like this," she answered with a wide grin. She gently nudged Wesley in the arm and stood up on her tip toes to whisper in his ear. "Don't you think we should let them get back to their um....entertainment?" she asked in a hushed tone and a goofy grin.
"Yes. Wesley, please leave. Now." I said taking my brother's shoulders. He tried to turn around and protest. He opened his mouth and noticed my blushing face. His eyes said, 'Ohh...' He understood. Wesley took Penelope's arm in his and they were off. "Bah." I spat. Not really spat, but you get the point. "Yeesh they can be so annoying. Espescially that flippy haired-freak." I muttered. Then I sat back down on the cold hard floor. I opened my mouth then closed it. I opened it again, "Well, which hotel do you want to go to? It's on me."
Stephanie smiled, shrugging her shoulders. "I think they were nice. They both seem really interesting, and it's sweet how in love they seem to be...and it's also slightly sickening at the same time," she said with a laugh and a smile. Steph slowly strolled over to Nay, stumbling a bit on her way over. She laced her fingers with his, leaning towards him in a rather flirtatious manner. "I don't know...What do you think? And besides...I can't ask you to pay all by yourself," she replied. She felt as though someone had released a swarm of butterflies in my stomach. 'Was I being too forward, just taking his hand like this? Or should I have done something more? Ugh!' she thought frantically. Now she remembered why she always blocked these emotions out, because they caused her to overthink every little action far too much.
Blushing I thought for a moment. Hand-holding...ah. I love it! "Well, I have quite a bit of money to my..." I stopped myself. I'd almost said name. "Quite a bit of money saved up from jobs." I looked down as I lied. I hated lying, but she couldn't know. She'd freak out. Or maybe she'd be like Penelope and completely understand it. But then again, Wesley just went around announcing those things. The things that I would have liked to be kept a secret. I was so deep in thought, I forgot to think about which hotel we could actually stay in.
Stephanie frowned, tilting her head a bit. "Alright, I can always help. I've got some money as well...stuff I had saved for a while. Nothing too much, but it's enough to pay for a room. We can split the cost," she suggested with a shrug of her shoulders and a smile. Without waiting for a response, she started towards the door, tugging Nay behind her. She looked back and smiled, feeling her head begin to spin. How could she have not noticed these feelings before? Looking back, she found she had subconsciously noticed them... Giving a smile, sh turned towards the direction of the town of Cambridge. "It's about a two mile walk to the town, but it shouldn't take too long," she explained.
"No, please, I insist you let me pay for it. I can't ask you to spend that much money." I said laying on the English charm. "Wait, you do know how big Cambridge is right?" I asked. I wondered if she was one of those Americans, who thought that all English towns were tiny specks on a map. Maybe. But I couldn't possibly imagine her being that...naive about other countries. "Cambridge is one of the biggest cities in England." I said raising an eyebrow. I groaned inwardly. I didn't want to walk. I was too lazy.
Stephanie nodded her head. "I know...which is why I had us land so far away. It's pretty hard to hide a twenty foot dragon among all those people..even with the power of the Mist. We're two miles from the very outskirts of the city, if we want to get to the actual city it'll be a much longer walk," she explained in a rather dry tone. She hated it when people just assumed she didn't know what she was doing. 'If you would have just waited to see that you wouldn't have had to ask,' she thought in an irritated tone. Quickly taking a deep breath, she calmed herself down. 'I can't let myself get irritated...it will turn into anger,' she told herself silently.
I let my hand fall from hers. "Sorry." I mumbled stepping a few feet away as I walked sullenly towards the direction we were supposed to be going. I hated when people where mad at me. I really did. It made me wanna cry. But I wouldn't do that in front of Stephanie. I put my head up and glanced back at her with a puppy dog eyes look. At the same time I was walking, I attempted to pull up my falling pants. They were skinny jeans for guys, hanging over Nike skateboarding shoes. My studded belt barely held the jeans up anyway. I attempted, yes, I tripped and fell on my face, blushing.


Spring (Benson & Moorhead, 2014) is an interesting proposition, it's a film that attempts and succeeds to defy expectations. Like the directors previous film, Resolution (Benson & Moorhead, 2012), it provides a unique take on the horror genre but also encompasses tropes we associate with others.
The film starts in America, in some generic, white trash town in the middle of nowhere. Evan's (Lou Taylor Pucci) mother has just died from cancer and after the funeral, when out drinking with a friend -a small cameo here from actor/director, Jeremy Gardener who directed The Battery (Gardener, 2012) – Evan picks a fight with the wrong guy and ends up having to skip town. At first you'll ponder if this is going to turn into a gangster flick, where Evan is chased halfway around the world. It doesn't.
Evan decides -with a little help from a fellow commuter -to travel to Italy. From here the film morphs into a road movie, as Evan accompanies a couple of 'Brits abroad'. However, when these drug/larger fuelled morons decide that Italy is too expensive, Evan decides to stay put and pursue Louise (Nadia Hilker), a beautiful Italian woman he met (briefly) the night before. And unsurprisingly, here's where the real fun begins.
Despite Louise's reluctance to accept Evan's offer of a date -she'd much prefer a one-night stand -she eventually agrees to meet him for something a little more substantial than a 'quickie'. As Evan's feelings for Louise grow, as the two begin dating, so his feelings of anguish about the loss of his mother subside, however, Louise has a rather dark secret.
Due to some bizarre genetic birth defect, Louise's body changes shape, at one point she appears to be changing into a werewolf and then later, a sea monster (of some variety). You see, even the prettiest people come with baggage -oh, and she's also over 2000 years old! Awkward.
As the film develops and Evan becomes fully aware of Louise's condition, and what with overstaying his visa, the two go 'on the run' together and even visit Louise's original home in Pompeii. And this marks the film's final swerve, as it meanders into romantic indy flick territory.
Spring might overstay its welcome, just a tad, but it's relatively comparable to Richard Linklater's 'Before' trilogy, albeit with tentacles of death, but that isn't a bad thing. Directors Justin Benson and Aaron Moorhead are proving themselves to be two very genre savvy directors, whose films are far from horrific. Horror enthusiasts should definitely seek this out.
Spring is part of the BFI London Film Festival and it is being screened to the public on Friday, October 10 and Sunday, October 12. Visit the website for more information.


A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible early. Partly cloudy skies. Low 56F. Winds ESE at 5 to 10 mph..
A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible early. Partly cloudy skies. Low 56F. Winds ESE at 5 to 10 mph.
An instructor readies a plants for its home in a wood-pallet succulent garden during a weekend workshop at Green Things, 3384 E. River Road, on Sept. 23, 2017.
Casandra Avila began caring for houseplants a few years ago and now has a jungle's worth of them in her home.
Maria Quijada owns Wild Child Gardens with her husband.
Girl Scout Troop 122 poses after doubling the size of a garden at Harelson Elementary School.
Girl Scout Troop 122 helps at the Community Food Bank's Las Milpitas de Cottonwood farm. Pictured from left to right: Emma Dirks, Keira Nyberg, Anissa Aldecoa, Michaela Cartwright and Alyssa Tellez.
This story was created by #ThisIsTucson and underwritten by Girl Scouts of Southern Arizona, helping girls plant seeds to success. Thank you for supporting the local organizations that support us!
We've got a bit of spring fever here at This Is Tucson.
I mean, how could you not when the wildflowers are putting on such a glorious show?
It makes us want to get outside and grow something.
If you share the sentiment, we've got some inspiration for you — ladies who grow beautiful plants in pots, gardens and fields.
Cassandra Avila is a 25-year-old houseplant lover who has transformed her home into a jungle and chronicled the change on her Instagram account @sprinkledwithplants.
Elizabeth Smith, 50, is the executive director of the Community Gardens of Tucson and believes in cultivating both the land and people's interest in it.
Maria Quijada, 33, owns Wild Child Gardens with her husband Miguel and sells produce flowers, cards and more at farmers markets. You can find them Thursday evenings at the Mercado San Agustin, Saturday mornings at Steam Pump Ranch and Sunday mornings at Rillito Park.
And Vanessa Aldecoa, 45, leads a Girl Scouts troop of 13 fifth graders for the Girl Scouts of Southern Arizona and has helped the girls enhance gardens at both an elementary school and food bank.
Editor's note: These responses have been edited for clarity and length.
What do you love about plants? I think plants are breathtaking! I love how plants can change the energy and look of any space. When walking into a room of plants, I immediately feel calm and at peace. There is something so therapeutic about being around plants and taking care of them.
When did you begin growing things? Who influenced you? Being born and raised here in Arizona, I have always had a passion for cacti, specifically the saguaro cactus. I started my plant journey a couple of years ago when I decided to start propagating cacti and succulents. This came very easy to me and before I knew it, I was selling succulents and making a profit off of them. I enjoyed this, but I wanted a new challenge; I always wanted to try growing houseplants. I was fascinated by the different varieties, colors and shapes of houseplants. And thus, began my houseplant journey. My first houseplant was a chlorophytum comosum, more commonly known as the spider plant. I was very interested in learning about plants that specifically worked as indoor air purifiers, meaning that they naturally absorbed harmful chemicals out of the air we breathe. I was impressed to learn that the chlorophytum comosum is known to remove formaldehyde and xylene from the air! And after that, I was hooked. I was on a mission to fill my house with air-purifying plants to clean the air in our home.
One by one, or should I say two by two, I was buying houseplants, and my houseplant collection turned into what it is now. With well over 50 house plants, I am proud to say our house is starting to look like an indoor jungle, and I absolutely love it! Our house is filled with mostly air-purifying plants, some common household plants and multiple rare plants. My two favorite plants are my monstera deliciosa and my calathea orbifolia, as shown in the picture with me!
As for inspiration, I get so many ideas and encouragement from social media, specifically Instagram. ... One of the best parts of my plant journey has been finding a supportive community that I didn't know was there! I have learned so much from them, and every one I meet who has plants is so nurturing, caring and encouraging. There is a hashtag that we use and I think it is very fitting for this article: #plantfriendsarethebestfriends.
What about growing things speaks to you? Growing plants is very rewarding! Whether you grow houseplants, raise a garden with produce or care for succulents, it can be very rewarding seeing the new growth and life you have supported and cared for. I get overly excited whenever my plants put out a new leaf. Every. Single. Time. It never gets old! It's like your plant's way of telling you thank you and that they are happy to be with you. And it's an amazing feeling.
What advice would you give to someone interested in trying out their own green thumb? Go to a local nursery and buy a plant! I always recommend going to a local nursery over a big department or home goods store, because the growers at the nurseries are very passionate, friendly and well-educated on their plants. They will be able to show you a great selection of houseplants that are low-maintenance and great for beginners. As for me, I would recommend starting out with a spider plant because they are very easy to care for, great for beginners, air purifying, and it is the first houseplant I ever bought. My spider plant has taught me so much and has gotten me to where I am today!
What do you love about plants? Plants clean our air, beautify our surroundings and one seed has the potential to feed the entire world.
When did you begin growing things? Who influenced you? When I was 4 years old. My grandmother, who was raised on a farm, influenced me to go play in the dirt and grow things.
What about growing things speaks to you? I love the fact that we can take a tiny little seed and care for it, and it in turn creates food, beauty, etc.
What do you grow? I grow gardeners! I am the executive director of the Community Gardens of Tucson and we support and cultivate people's interest in growing gardens. Personally, I also grow winter greens, brassicas, herbs, flowers, root vegetables, tomatoes, peppers, eggplant, fruit and nut trees, berries, vines, etc.
Tell us a gardening success story. I have learned to grow all kinds of plants, trees, fruits and vegetables by mimicking Mother Nature. I grow organically and sustainably for the most success in our Sonoran Desert climate. Mulching the top of the soil around plants and trees with lots of wood chips, leaves, etc. keeps the roots moist and cool and creates the perfect environment for earthworms which in turn, automatically fertilize the plants and trees.
What advice would you give to someone interested in trying out their own green thumb? Look for the nearest gardening community to you and ask lots of questions. Gardeners usually love to share their knowledge and joy!
What do you love about plants? Their resilience, strength and adaptability. Plus, they are delicious!
When did you begin growing things? Who influenced you? As a kid, my parents paid me a penny per snail and caterpillar I picked off their plants. Later, they gave me my own garden area to experiment with. My grandparents' farm was also a big inspiration.
What do you grow? Heirloom vegetables, flowers and herbs. I love unusual heirloom varieties like pink celery, purple carrots and striped tomatoes, but the main factor is taste. I always need 10 kinds of basil because they all have different flavors. We also have a small flock of laying hens and an orchard of 50-plus kinds of fruit.
Tell us a farming success story. I get to play in the dirt full time with the love of my life. It is a dream come true after years of saving, planning and yearning to be outside.
What advice would you give to someone interested in trying out their own green thumb? Plant seeds that are native or adapted to similar conditions. A local seed library is a great place to start. Plant lots of variety, particularly stuff you like to eat.
Meet Vanessa Aldecoa (and Girl Scout Troop 122).
What do you love about plants? I love that plants bring us joy and nutrition. It's calming and therapeutic to plant. It's insightful when things grow.
Tell us about your troop's gardening projects. We did two different projects. The first project was at Harelson Elementary School. A Boy Scout had made a small garden for one of his Boy Scouts projects. The school had asked us if we could double the size. We followed up with the Boy Scout on what exact materials he used so that it would match exactly. We were able to double the garden size. We received approximately $200 in donations from Civano Nursery, Home Depot and Ace Hardware. We used $400 of our cookie funds to buy all the materials. The garden and parent pick-up area look amazing and our girls worked wonderfully as a team! The second gardening project we did was at the Community Food Bank's Las Milpitas de Cottonwood farm. We spent the morning planting in their garden.
Why did you want to introduce your troop to gardening? The school asked if we were open to the challenge of extending the garden. It was a great learning experience. We had to coordinate with the previous Boy Scout for continuity. We had to set up a plan on what needed to be done and how we would accomplish it. We coordinated with the school to get a letter ... so that if the community donated, it would be a tax write-off. Girls practiced and then went out into the community and asked for donations. We then had to raise the funds to complete the project and work as a team to get it completed.
How have you seen it impact your girls? When we visited Las Milpitas, the girls were confident in understanding what needed to be done to plant a garden of that extent.
What advice would you give to someone interested in trying out their own green thumb? Get out there and try it! It's super fun, and you have nothing to lose. There are so may resources available to help guide you in learning about what to grow at what time of year. There is also a wonderful seed garden available at our local libraries and the Tucson Backyard Gardening site is also a wonderful resource!
Got a girl with a green thumb? Here's how she can get started.
Maria and Vanessa are right. Check out Pima County Public Library's Seed Library. If you have a library card, you can check out multiple seed packets at a time. Here's a list of the branch libraries where you can check out seeds. Because the seed libraries are maintained by gardeners collecting seeds from their own gardens, the seeds you're checking out should be better adapted to our desert climate. Visit library.pima.gov/seed-library for more information.
Felicia's Farm, 3761 E. River Road, will give your girl real farming experience. Spend a day volunteering there (kids require adult supervision) and practice composting, weeding, planting or digging. You can drop in Monday through Friday to volunteer — and you're helping a good cause. The farm regularly donates its produce and eggs. Visit feliciasfarm.org.
Hit up a plant sale. Tohono Chul Park, 7211 N. Northern Ave., has a sale this weekend 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, March 23 and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday March 24. Native Seeds/SEARCH, 3061 N. Campbell Ave., has its spring plant sale 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday, March 29 to Sunday, March 31.
For a Girl Scout, the next opportunity to stand up, speak up, and take the lead is never far away. Will you find a sustainable solution to a problem in your community? Will you explore the great outdoors? Build a robot? Learn to code? Conduct an experiment?
With Girl Scouts, she'll do more than she ever thought she could, dream bigger dreams than she ever imagined, and—oh, yeah—change the world. Find a troop today.
Margo Hall owns The Bra Spa, Mary Marchetti owns Breathe Easy Automotive and Selina Barajas owns Mi Reina Mobile Boutique.


Mercedes C Class 63 AMG Saloon -  Performance Figures, Specs and Technical Information.
Mercedes C Class Transmission: This particular Mercedes C Class 63 AMG Saloon has a 7 speed/ Auto gearbox with the power being delivered through it's AWD system.
Mercedes C Class Torque: The Mercedes C Class produces torque measuring 479 lb-ft (635.8 Nm) @ 1750 rpm.
Mercedes C Class Power to Weight: The C Class weighs around 1780 kg (3924 lb). Power to weight can be calculated at 263.4 bhp per metric ton or alternatively as 269.1 lb-ft of torque per ton.
Mercedes C Class Acceleration: This C Class accelerates 0-60mph (96.6 kph) in 3.8 seconds or 0-100kph in 3.9 and can achieve an estimated 1/4 mile drag time in 12.38 seconds with a trap speed of 110.5 mph.
2016 C Class Rivals List.


Are you pondering of starting up a new industry or absorb you ever performed but but and tremendously surprised the excessive inquiries to quiz about competition? The United States is a nation of entrepreneurs, and little companies are the main providers or work alternatives for folks. We need mountainous entrepreneurs to proceed to propel the economy forward.
Whilst you occur to're taking a appreciate to create a originate-up, that you just will most certainly be ready to no longer prevail with out realizing what's accessible and what the competition looks to be care for; suddenheless, customarily entrepreneurs attain no longer know the system to plot this job. Straightforward the system to attain it is to call the ethical inquiries to quiz.
The principle quiz you are searching to quiz is who are your competitors. Which that you just might perchance well well additionally very effectively be in a new industry, however the chance is that you just're no longer. The principle thing that you just might perchance well like to identify is who your competition is and what they present concerning merchandise and products and services. You'll additionally are searching to know how they residing themselves available within the market. Whilst you occur to had been their customer, what would stand out for you about your competitors, their merchandise or products and services?
Whilst you're clear on your competitors, attain a SWOT diagnosis. Checklist your complete strengths, weaknesses, alternatives and the threats your organization can face within the marketplace. Be as scheme as conceivable and if conceivable, carry in trusted advisers who can provide you third-rating collectively perception. You are searching to realise what others open air of you and your crew judge about your organization and its choices.
Take into narrative your merchandise and products and services within the context of the decisions of your competitors. Take be aware of every of their merchandise or products and services, even those you attain no longer intend to fabricate on your organization and understand what makes your merchandise better. If it turns out that your competitors are doing one thing better than you are, or conception to, then judge relatively about the plot in which that you just will most certainly be ready to improve your choices for the market. Take into narrative options and test them, every time that you just might perchance well absorb the opportunity, available within the market so that you just will most certainly be ready to protect a minimum of 1 step earlier than the competition.
Candidly, one of the dear explanations my firms absorb had sizable success is because of we prioritize excellent customer provider and members of the family. For my crew, it's continually about relationship-building, even with our hardest customers. So, as you review your organization, judge about what your competitors can attain better for his or her customers because it would be an opportunity so that you just can give it to them. Be very considerate whenever you occur to bring to mind the plot in which that you just will most certainly be ready to fabricate a customer members of the family program that can blow away the competition.
In case you're taking your merchandise or products and services to the marketplace, that you just might perchance well like to know how your offers review with those of your competitors. Whilst you occur to're ready to give a product at a less dear fee level, is it quiet one thing that is of high good? If, nonetheless, your prices will seemingly be elevated than that of your competitors, what are you offering that can continually aid customers to are searching to pay a elevated fee for what that you just might perchance well absorb on the market? In case you rating to the level of determining fee, it is considerable to absorb performed the precedent steps because of it would point out that you just will most certainly be ready to call the ethical fee to your products and services or merchandise and additionally pork up your reasons for it.
Whilst you've long gone thru those five questions, you'll absorb a a lot better sense of no longer fully your competitors but extra importantly, critical recordsdata that can point out that you just will most certainly be ready to residing your self within the marketplace.


Emotions determine the quality of your life and emotions are contagious. Your ability to motivate and inspire the people around you will be enhanced by mastering your emotions.
Develop a positive emotions mindset by applying the following 7 key strategies.
Choose positive emotions every day: love, happiness, optimism, determination, confidence, gratitude, curiosity, passion, health, resilience.
Embrace negative emotions: anger, frustration, disappointment, fear, hurt, sadness, guilt, overwhelm, loneliness, inadequacy. Every emotion serves you if you take action. What else could this mean?
Own your emotions. You create your own emotions based on your interpretations. Choose commitment over hope.
Learn from emotions and move on. Don't avoid and endure emotions.
Practice every day to develop a new success habit.
Develop your top 10 list of what makes you feel good.
Enhance your emotional intelligence by focusing on five key areas: mood, adaptability, stress management, interpersonal relationships and self- awareness.


When trying to determine the type and size of windows you need for your space, you have to first determine what exactly standard window sizes are and if you are going to require custom windows or will typical windows work. Common window sizes vary depending on the function of the space such as a standard bathroom window is smaller than a standard kitchen window.
Average window size will depend on the era that the home was built in along with the type of windows uses. Any updates made to older homes could have had the average window size enlarged to make larger, more modern window openings. The standard window dimensions for each space will be different but should fall within the popular sizes that are used by contractors and builders. When building a home, standard window dimensions should be considered when figuring which windows will bring in the most natural sunlight.
There are no technical or real standard window sizes but there is what would be considered popular window sizes that most contractors and home improvement stores recommend. Types of windows include single hung or double hung, casement windows, basement windows and gliders or sliding windows. Specialty windows are the window sizes that are not popular and used less often. Custom windows are windows that are odd-sized or shaped and not readily found at home improvement stores or specialty window stores. Standard window sizes or popular window sizes does vary depending on the window.
When determining what size windows are need for your house you need to measure all the windows that will need replacing or updated. You will notice that not all house window sizes are the same. Usually the bathroom, basement and kitchen windows will vary in size. Picture or bay windows will also be of varying sizes and while they may be standard window sizes for their type, they are still considerably larger than single hung, double hung or casement windows. It is always a good idea to have a window professional come out and measure your windows for you. Most home improvement stores such as Lowe's or Home Depot will offer a free assessment and on-site inspection.
Depending on when your home was built, it will either have vinyl or wood windows. Vinyl windows are the latest and greatest in standard window sizes as they are pre-fabricated and come in a variety of sizes. Vinyl windows come in standard window sizes with a width from 18 inches to 48 inches and a height from 18 inches to 36 inches.
Wood Windows are still popular, especially in homes that are true to their era. The biggest concern with wooden windows is not being able to get standard window sizes but the rot that can occur around the frame of the window. Wood windows can come in standard window sizes with a variety of widths: 18, 20, 24, 28, 30, 32, 36, 42, 48, 54 and 60 inches and heights of 18, 20, 24, 28, 30, 36, 42 and 48 inches.
Single hung windows: Single hung windows along with double hung windows are the most common and basic window. Single hung windows look like two windows that are attached and mounted vertically. They either will slide up or will open out. One window panel will remain stationary at all times. Single hung window sizes come in 24 inch by 36 inch, 24 inch by 46 inch, 28 inch by 54 inch, 28 inch by 66 inch, 28 inch by 70 inch, 34 inch by 46 inch or 34 inch by 62 inch. Single hung window sizes other than those listed would be considered specialty or custom sizes. When replacing windows in your space, it is best to do so with standard window sizes rather than go with specialty or custom windows.
Double hung windows: Double hung windows also look like two windows that are attached and mounted vertically. Both frames will open. The standard double hung window sizes are ideal for living areas and bedrooms. They can be used in any room in the house since standard double hung windows come in several popular sizes. Standard double hung window sizes are 24 inch by 36 inch, 24 inch by 46 inch, 28 inch by 54 inch, 28 inch by 66 inch, 28 inch by 70 inch, 34 inch by 46 inch or 34 inch by 62 inch. As with single hung window sizes, any size other than those listed for standard double hung windows would be considered specialty or custom sizes. Standard window sizes are always the best choice to make replacing double hung windows much easier.
So you are may be wondering what's the difference between single hung windows and double hung windows. See the below photos to clarify.
Gliders or better known as sliding windows have two glass panels that are side by side instead of on top of each other. These types of windows are most commonly found in bathrooms or porches. They can be used anywhere in the house, though. Standard sliding window sizes are 24 inch by 23 inch, 36 inch by 36 inch, 48 inch by 24 inch or 48 inch by 36 inch. Standard window sizes for sliding windows are usually easy to find and replace when necessary.
Standard window sizes for casement windows come in a wide variety. Casement windows are either single framed or double framed. They are also either horizontal or vertical. The main difference between single hung and double hung casement windows is that casement windows all open out. Because they open out, some casement windows do not have screens on them. The ones that do have screens are opened using a hand crank. Casement windows are generally found in kitchens, attics, basements and bathrooms. Twin casement windows have standard casement window sizes of 21 inch by 45 inch or 21 inch by 53 inch. Single casement windows have standard casement window sizes of 25 inch by 35 inch, 29 inch by 47 inch, or 29 inch by 59 inch.
Basement windows are usually shorter than standard house window sizes. They have to fit in the small space between the top of the concrete foundation and the ground that the house sits on. Most basement windows are sliders, casement windows or vent windows. Some basement windows do not open at all and are stationary. Standard window sizes for basement windows come in 32 inch widths and range in height from 15 inches to 24 inches.
Most kitchen windows are casement windows. Although, depending on when the home was built, they could easily still have single hung or double hung windows. Kitchen window size is determined by the size of the kitchen and the necessity for natural light. Newer homes have larger custom kitchen windows that are casement windows. These are not standard window sizes and are therefore considered to be custom windows. Standard kitchen window sizes include 21 inch by 45 inch, 21 inch by 53 inch, 25 inch by 35 inch, 29 inch by 47 inch, or 29 inch by 59 inch. These are common window sizes for kitchens and any other size would be considered specialty or custom.
Standard bedroom window sizes can differ from era to era. Within the past 20 years, larger windows that allow natural sunlight to come into the bedroom are more popular and therefore larger standard bedroom window sizes are the norm. Older homes, however, will still have smaller standard bedroom window sizes. Unless the windows are specialty or custom, it should be relatively easy to locate common window sizes that your home needs. Standard window sizes for the bedroom are generally 24 inch by 36 inch, 24 inch by 46 inch, 28 inch by 54 inch, 28 inch by 66 inch, 28 inch by 70 inch, 34 inch by 46 inch or 34 inch by 62 inch and are either single hung or double hung windows.
When replacement windows are needed and you are not sure if you have standard window sizes in your home, it is easy to measure each window. You can have a professional come to your home and measure your windows if you are not sure how to do so or you can follow this simple guide to measure for replacement windows.
First, you are going to measure the width. You will measure between the jambs at the top, middle and bottom of the window opening to get the width. By measuring from the surface of the jambs, not from the parting beads or trim strips of the old window opening you will get a true measurement. You will use the smallest of the three measurements as the width of the entire window.
Next, you will measure the height. You will need to measure from the high point of the window sill or the surface closest to the inside of the window to the top of the window opening. You will again make three measurements, one on the right side, one on the left side and one in the middle of the window opening. The smallest measurement is the one that will be used for the height of the window.
Finally, you need to measure the depth of the window. When measuring the depth of the window ignore any pulleys or parting strips. These will be removed when replacement windows are installed. In order for a window to be able to be replaced ,there must be at least 3 ¼ inches between the inside window trip and the outside blind stop strip. If the depth is less than 3 ¼ inches than it is definitely not a standard window size and will require custom windows or the framing will need to be built out to accept standard window sizes.
The chart for ta ypical window size is given below.


GET HYPE! This week it's just Bryan, Ryan, and Jon and perhaps the biggest event in Marvel History! They're shaking up the podcast formula a bit to talk the original "Civil War" event, and then hype both the upcoming movie and the sequel comic series! And they ask perhaps the most important question in all of podcast history: whose side are you on?
NOT MY TEMPO! Just kidding. We're joined by drummer extraordinaire Rich Roy to talk about the Damien Chazelle film WHIPLASH. Do we have what it takes to impress J.K. Simmons and make it to the jazz competition of podcast episodes? *ducks as a chair flies by* WE JUST MIGHT!
Hey, maaaaan. Get a load of this week's episode! We talk DAZED & CONFUSED with special guest Jackie! Get your paddle ready for our take on this Linklater classic. But that's, just, like, our opinion, maaaaan! Heeehehe.


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Game of Thrones Season 8 is Basically the Series' Version of 'STAR WARS: The Last Jedi'
Posted by JJ Goodman | May 20, 2019 | Fantasy, Reviews, TV News | 0 |
(Warning: May contains spoilers for the Game of Thrones finale.) Subverted expectations. Poor character development. Shoddy writing. An unexpected and dissatisfying demise for the primary antagonist. There is even a petition to have it rewritten and remade. Do all of these thing sound familiar? If you're a Star Wars fan, they probably do. Each one of these statements describes Star Wars Episode VIII: The Last Jedi. But we're not actually talking about The Last Jedi. We're talking about Game of Thrones Season 8.
Image: HBO
Every one of the statements listed above is directly applicable to fan reaction to Game of Thrones Season 8. As it turns out, the show's final season has the dubious honor of sharing all these common traits with The Last Jedi. Each of the two subverted expectations when it came to a major character of the saga/series. For The Last Jedi it was with Luke Skywalker. For Game of Thrones, it was, well, pick a character.
They both lost hands, too.
Whether Jaime Lannister returning to Cersei's side, or Daenerys going dragon-sh*t crazy, fans expected something drastically differently than what they got.
Game of Thrones Season 8 is the Series' 'The Last Jedi'
The comparisons don't end there, however. Complaints about the writing for both abound on the Interwebs. One the one hand there was the illogical and physics-defying, slowest space chase in the history of space chases. For Game of Thrones Season 8, again, pick something and fans are complaining about it. (Admittedly even I took issue with Jon's non-goodbye goodbye to Ghost. Thankfully they made amends for that in the finale.) Fans blame Rian Johnson for The Last Jedi. Now, similarly, fans are blaming Benioff & Weiss of the writing in Season 8.
Perhaps the biggest parallel is the decidedly dissatisfying death of the show's perceived primary antagonist. (Writer's Note: I found one other death even more dissatisfying. Find out which one by clicking HERE.) As Snoke met a rather unspectacular and unexpected end in TLJ, so too did the Night King in Game of Thrones Season 8.
So what's your stor– oh, you're dead now.
These are just the easily identifiable comparisons… Of course, we know that Benioff & Wiess produced Game of Thrones Season 8. They are producing the next Star Wars films. There are even rumors Rian Johnson may be involved with their trilogy. And is there some correlation between the GoT and TLJ because both happen to be the eighth installment of the respective sagas?
Things to ponder. All I really care about is that Drogon and Ghost lived. You guys can fight about the rest amongst yourselves.
PreviousHBO Announces Each Remaining Stark Will Get Their Own Game Of Thrones Spinoff!
NextWait, Chris Rock Is Producing A Saw Reboot?
JJ Goodman
Lawyer by trade, writer by passion. Author of 'The Deep Space Chronicles' series available at Amazon.com, a rambling blog at jjgoodman.blogspot.com, and musings on all things 'Star Wars' and more here at That Hashtag Show.
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the observatori: New Years Eve. Prague.
Another city, another story. The backdrop for this one is Prague. The soundtrack for this adventure is served up by Duck Sauce. Barbra Streisand.
The cast is filled with people who I've worked with before. No surprise, INSEADers.
And the theme was unbridled fun. 22 of us made it out in the end, from Canada to Singapore. And I'm pretty sure that none of us will miss it next year.


May 18 is the International Museum Day. The theme this year is "Hyper-connected museums: New approaches, new publics". On that day, about 100 museums in Beijing will be free for people to visit, among which 17 museums normally charge an entrance fee.
In addition, in order to celebrate the International Museum Day, a series of activities will be launched in Beijing's museums. These activities include exhibitions and lectures, which are related to the museum's history and culture. According to the municipal administration of cultural heritage, a new topic webpage will be released on May 18, which provides visiting experiences in the virtual way.
Every year on International Museum Day, different celebration activities are held in the museums around the world. More than 36,000 museums in 157 countries celebrated the festivity last year, and some celebrations even lasted for a whole week.
The International Museum Day successfully builds up relationships between museums and the public. These activities on International Museum Day help people to understand museums' career and the importance of protecting the heritage. People will focus more on culture relic's development by visiting museums.


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Tag Archive for: Aarong
Developing Countries, Ethical Consuming, Global Poverty, Shopping
5 Places to Ethically Shop Online
Fighting poverty can seem an impossible task, but the truth is that organizations exist all over the world working to alleviate suffering by providing employment. It is also easy to partner with these organizations by ethically shopping. Below are five places to ethically shop while alleviating poverty in their countries.
The LifeStitches Project
The LifeStitches Project sells beautiful tabletop décor and other fabric products. Arua, Uganda is home to a vibrant and extensive fabric market. The LifeStitches workshop utilizes the fabrics to create skillfully sewn products. Brightly patterned tablecloths, potholders, aprons and bags show off the culture and skill of the women who create them.
LifeStitches began as a support group for women with HIV/AIDS. In Uganda, 1.2 million citizens have HIV/AIDS. According to the website's "LifeStitches Uganda Documentary," 95% of "children living with HIV acquire it from their… mother."
The documentary goes on to explain that, tragically, deep stigma often causes the women to stay silent about their condition. In 2000, a hospital worker, O'daru Grace Yiti, faced the dreaded diagnosis. Three years later, she brought other women living with HIV/AIDS together to support one another. They met "under the mango tree on the hospital grounds" and created a community for each other.
Two years later, Katherine Gnauck, M.D came to Arua and met the support group. She noticed a need for economic stability since the women faced such a strong stigma. Together, Gnauck and the support group began a project for the women to support themselves and their children.
Now, the women struggling with AIDS/HIV in Arua, Uganda have a place to make a living. Their products are available online via an Etsy shop.
Aarong
Aarong, an incredibly popular retail chain in Bangladesh, is another business that provides a way to ethically shop. Aarong sells clothing, jewelry and leather merchandise along with many other products.
The heart behind Aarong, according to its website, is to provide a "productive outlet for the marginalized artisans while celebrating quality work." In order to accomplish this goal Aarong gives people training to become artisans. Shondhya Rani Sarkar joined Aarong to provide for her son. She worked her way up and is now training new employees. Aarong has helped over 65,000 artisans like Shondhya.
Aarong originally started as just a few artisans that BRAC, a development organization, employed to create unique goods. The beginning, in 1976, was quite slow, but over the course of time, Aarong became a well-known brand. Still employing local artisans, Aarong's products are both ethical and well-made.
Its website provides an opportunity to ethically shop. It also has an app available for more convenient shopping.
Azizi Life
For home décor and kitchen wares in addition to bags and jewelry, the Rwandan company, Azizi Life, is a wonderful place to ethically shop. Its woven bowls and baskets have both simple and intricate designs, giving options for every style. In addition, the wooden kitchenware gives an artistic flair to everyday objects.
Azizi Life strives to build a family of businesses that would then feed into local efforts to alleviate poverty within the local community. With its roots in the organization Food for the Hungry, Azizi Life grew into a self-sustaining business that provides employment to artisans across Rwanda. In fact, Rwandan artisans create each of the products at Azizi Life.
Jeannine Umutoniwase became CEO in 2016 when the founder, a member of the nonprofit that founded the business, wanted to hand it over to local leadership.
The organization hopes to assist with "the national vision for growth and development." According to its website, three of Azizi Life's hallmarks are commitments to fair trade, sustainability and the environment. In addition, the artisans use natural products, and the company even ships the products in recyclable packaging.
To ethically shop at Azizi Life, visit its website.
Vi Bella
Vi Bella offers an easy way to shop ethically for jewelry, sewn and home products. Lovely and simple, the products span from stylish handbags to beaded earrings. Vi Bella also offers a wide selection of home décor.
Vi Bella started in 2011 when the founder, Julie Hulstein, saw terrible devastation in Haiti after a major earthquake. Because of the sudden poverty, she saw a need to sell goods from Haitian craftsmen. Additionally, she wanted to sell them at a fair wage and to a larger client base. Vi Bella offers a way for craftsmen to sell their products overseas.
Not long after, the organization expanded to Mexico and the U.S., employing over 60 craftspeople.
Vi Bella's products are available on its website.
Ten Thousand Villages is a store that sells beautiful handmade gifts from all over the world. With the aim to end generational poverty and bring about social change, Ten Thousand Villages sells everything from soap from Israel to hammocks that artisans made in Nicaragua.
The organization started in the 1940s when a few women from La Plata, Puerto Rico met an American by the name of Edna Ruth Byler. The women needed a go-between to export their embroidery. It started simply with Byler bringing products home to sell. Those simple acts resulted in Ten Thousand Villages, which, over 70 years later, is still thriving by employing local artisans all over the world who otherwise would have little means to export their goods.
Ten Thousand Villages provides a simple and often inexpensive place to shop on its website.
There are dozens of organizations that offer ways to ethically shop. In addition to the five above, there are a great many that have the heart to pull themselves and their neighbors out of poverty all while celebrating beautiful art and style.
– Abigail Lawrence
https://borgenproject.org/wp-content/uploads/logo.jpg 0 0 Jennifer Philipp https://borgenproject.org/wp-content/uploads/logo.jpg Jennifer Philipp2020-06-28 01:30:552020-06-22 08:51:545 Places to Ethically Shop Online


Sigurður Sigurjónsso's Gummi dominates this harsh, bleak but deeply moving Icelandic drama, insofar as anything besides nature dominates. He'd in his late sixties or early seventies, he's wind whipped, isolated, mourning lost relationships and grateful to have a flock of sheep to care for.
He's a shepherd as is his brother who lives several hundred metres across the field. Their herds are their families, sons and daughters, friends and reasons to live.
Gummi and Kiddi are getting on in years, and the harsh environment of the rugged landscape has aged them but made them intensely independent. The elements regularly beat them into submission but they've survived seven decades but to be sure nature is the mighty lead character.
Gummi and Kiddi haven't spoken for forty years. One has to pass through another's road to leave the farm, and they have a dog trained to fetch notes between them if there is an urgent matter. Beyond that they are separate, inviolable, proud and stubborn. Kiddi drinks.
The brothers participate in community life, separately, it's understood in town that they don't connect and tension mounts as they compete in the annual best sheep contest. Sheep from their farms are renowned for their vigour and quality.
Kiddi's sheep beat Gummi's by a hairs breadth but win they did and Gumi leaves the town hall to be alone. As he passes Kiddi's herd he notices the prize winning ram acting strangely.
He examines it and finds evidence of the deadly and highly contagious disease scrapie – a fatal, degenerative disease that affects the nervous systems of sheep and goats related to bovine spongiform encephalopathy "mad cow disease" and chronic wasting disease of deer.
Gummi reports it but Kiddi says he's making trouble because he's jealous of his second win in two years.
The mayor brings in government animal health experts who examine the animals, stalls, barns and soil – where it holds – and discover the disease has indeed landed on Kiddi's herd.
That means the entire sheep population in the valley must be slaughtered and that would be the end of their honoured line of animals. It is an unbearable fact for the brothers because it also spells the end of any significant relationships in their lives.
What follows is Gummi's attempts to rescue the animals. He leads with his heart as the government agents bear down on his flock. It's organic and realistic, but his acts of intended mercy turn into tragedy of Shakespearean proportions.
The film gives us pause to reflect on the limitations of life and what we can bear. There are lessons to be learned and reminders that family is important, and so is love.
The films apparent simplicity gives way to complexity as the brothers ponder their lives under sudden, traumatic change. And once again, as the films tell us so well, nature is in charge. It's a deep well.
Rams isn't a film for mainstream audiences but cinéphiles will appreciate its execution, beauty, minimal scripting and the deft performances by all.


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Roman Tales
By Book Staff| 2018-03-21T19:05:59+01:00	May 25th, 2015|Noteworthy Titles|
By Alberto Moravia, translated from the Italian by Angus Davidson
Farrar, Strauss, 1954 (1981). 240 pages.
Behold poor and grimy Rome of the immediate postwar. Alberto Moravia's morality cameos are awash in seduction, jealousy, betrayal, murder and blue-collar gossip. For every Mario or Ugo there's a Serafina, Adalgisa, Serafino, Iole, Tuda, Nespola — rural names only recently relocated from country to city. Here are barbers and plumbers, truck drivers and cabbies, caretakers and undertakers, their appetites whetted by the slightest whiff of gossip and conspiracies, distraction from a mostly bleak day-to-day. This Rome, in summer, is "as melancholy as a cast-off garment." Pasta is cooked by the bowl-full by scheming girlfriends or brooding wives, some still illiterate. People live "far from the world" on Via Salaria, then as remote as Monte Mario, now both part of inner Rome.
The pleasure of these 26 Boccaccio-like slides is how sharply they outline a still half-medieval place, one that makes the chasm between 1950 and 1970, when Italian modernity took root, seem more like a millennia. Via die Coronari, Via Condotti, Campo de' Fiori, Via di Ripetta, and Piazza Venezia are not the tourist sites of today but the working class haunts and artisan bastions and anchored the neo-realist movement in film.
Moravia is raw and wry. To wit: A jealous friend provokes a fight between his unrequited love and the man she loves, hanging a sign "Closed for family bereavement" on the storefront while the two go at it. A fastidious man who likes ironing, washing and sewing can't understand why his homebody wife leaves him. A middle-aged man courts a teenage girl only to feel ashamed, after which she marries an even older man. Hot-tempered rivals seem forever ready to clash (usually over money or women) but typically succumb to cowardice. It's very much a male world, just listen to a thief: "Locks are like women: the right key, like the right approach, is to be find not by intellect but intuition." No casual decadence or middle class values here. Instead, a walk through a city that has vanished. Moravia rued his early translations into English, and rightly so.
About the Author: Book Staff
The Book Staff represents a series of authors who review books for the magazine on a regular basis.