text:
Home Sweet Home Quilt Along
- Schedule
- Block 1 - My Home
- Block 2 - Lapacek's Orchard
- Block 3 - House by the Bay
- Block 4 - My Tilted House
- Block 5 - Two Trees
- Block 6 - Tree of Life
- Block 7 - Under the Moreton Bay Fig
- Block 8 - A Wonky Modern House
- Block 9 - Scrappy Trees
- Block 10 - A Home for the Birds
- Block 11 - The Happy Tree
- Block 12 - the little house
- Block 13 - Three Trees
- Block 14 - Under the Apple Tree
- Block 15 - A Home for Hoot
- Block 16 - Branch Sweet Branch
- BONUS - accuquilt home
- BONUS - Acid Cottage
- BONUS - Marcia's Crazee Patch House
- BONUS Block - Rippling Pond
- Flickr Group - Post your blocks here!
- BONUS - Acid Cottage
Project QUILTING
Feedback & Features
My Fabric is For Sale!
My Flickr Stream!
My Blog List
Hello Friend Quilted Pillow2 days ago
Quilted Jacket4 weeks ago
Scrappy Cross Quilt and Tutorial1 month ago
H2H Quilt Challenge 20202 months ago
In A Flap Pouch2 months ago
Blog Photos7 months ago
Quiltsy Scrappy Challenge1 year ago
Shuffling1 year ago
Eco-living On A Budget1 year ago
a new day dawns1 year ago
Never Give Up2 years ago
SAVE THE DATE!!!3 years ago
Hand Maker Blog Tour3 years ago
Cotton yarn utopia - found!3 years ago
The San Salvador Sails By ...3 years ago
Girl's Weekend to Arizona4 years ago
New Updates Coming Soon4 years ago
New Design with Lots of Humor!5 years ago
Challenge #2215 years ago
A Quilty Finish7 years ago
A walk in the snow7 years ago
the harvest begins~8 years ago
My Blog Has Moved!8 years ago
Polka Dotted Dress Envy8 years ago
Come visit our new blog!8 years ago
Handmade Christmas Recap 28 years ago
Blech13 years ago
Favorite Websites
Kim's Crafty Apple has MOVED to www.PersimonDreams.com
I'm re-branding myself from Kim's Crafty Apple into 'Persimon Dreams.'
You can now find me at:
(and my jewelry is still at www.theapple.etsy.com)
A Birthday, A Book Review and a GIVEAWAY
Happy Saturday everyone! More importantly -
photo's by Friends in Photography
Happy FIRST Birthday to my beautiful baby, Persimoni Mae (we call her Pip!)
I had to get that in there before I get down to business. Now – I'm happy to be sharing my thoughts on a new book that I read 'Ties That Bind' from Marie Bostwick for the Blog Hop organized through the Quilting Gallery.
I am an avid reader. I love to read books with a great story so I can just escape' into another world. I'll admit – my husband doesn't really like when I get into a book because I'm really good at not hearing everything else going on around me. I've found that this has been a helpful technique when I'm driving somewhere with a carload of screaming children. I was immediately sucked into this book since it was very well written with a great story line.
I identify with Mariposa even though we don't hear from her personally in the story. I've always been a bit of a 'black sheep' being independent and opinionated.
This is the first of Marie's books that I have read but I am about to go on the hunt for the rest of them. I really enjoyed this and I would love to see what happened before this book. Although I did easily follow the story without have read the previous books in the series.
Why would I recommend that you read this novel?
Family, Love, Children, Faith, Quilting
Phillipa, one of the characters, signs up to make a baby quilt as her first quilt. To see and read about one of my favorite baby quilts that I've made be sure to head over to the Quilting Gallery Site. I sort of took a beginner quilting class when I first started. It was at my future mother-in-law's house on Tuesday nights. I would work on my quilt and she cooked us dinner! It was the best of both worlds – especially when you're a college student – hard to beat a good meal. The boys would do the dishes while Diane looked over my work and taught me new steps. It definitely inspired me to continue to quilt and once I got my very first sewing machine – there was no stopping me!
Book Synopsis:
Christmas is fast approaching, and New Bern, Connecticut, is about to receive the gift of a new pastor, hired sight unseen to fill in while Reverend Tucker is on sabbatical. Meanwhile, Margot Matthews' friend, Abigail, is trying to match-make even though Margot has all but given up on romance. She loves her job at the Cobbled Court Quilt Shop and the life and friendships she's made in New Bern; she just never thought she'd still be single on her fortieth birthday.
It's a shock to the entire town when Phillip A. Clarkson turns out to be Philippa. Truth be told, not everyone is happy about having a female pastor. Yet despite a rocky start, Philippa begins to settle in—finding ways to ease the townspeople's burdens, joining the quilting circle, and forging a fast friendship with Margot. When tragedy threatens to tear Margot's family apart, that bond—and the help of her quilting sisterhood—will prove a saving grace. And as she untangles her feelings for another new arrival in town, Margot begins to realize that it is the surprising detours woven into life's fabric that provide its richest hues and deepest meaning…
GIVEAWAYHave you heard enough that you are going to run out and buy your very own copy!? You don't have to YET! Enter to win your very own copy simply by leaving me a comment telling me what your favorite book is. Be sure to leave your email address – if I can't get a hold of you – no prize. I will be drawing the winner on May 2nd, so be sure to get your comment in now!
Did my review make you really excited about this book? Do you want more chances to WIN it? Head over to the other 'Blog Hopper's' and be sure to enter their giveaway too!
Blog Hop Schedule:
Tuesday, April 24
Michele - Quilting Gallery
Jackie - Canton Village Quilt Works
Wendy - Ivory Spring
Wednesday, April 25
Jennifer - SewHooked
Erin - One Piece at a Time
Thursday, April 26
Victoria - Bumble Beans Inc.
Sandi - A Legacy of Stitches
Friday, April 27
Michele - With Heart and Hands
Melissa - Lilac Lane
Saturday, April 28
Melissa - Sew Bitter Sweet Designs
Kim – Kim's Crafty Apple
Hide and Seek Baby Quilt Pattern
Also, a special surprise will be available soon on Marie's site. When you register as a reading friend on Marie's site you will be able to download, for FREE!
Deb Tucker from Studio 180 Designs created this adorable Hide and Seek Baby Quilt to go with the book.
It's a beautiful quilt pattern! But just know that
it is not quite ready yet so stay TUNED!
64 comments:
- Sallie said...
Redeeming Love by Francine Rivers is my favorite book. Thanks for the giveaway! I've read the other books in this series and can't wait to read this one!
- April 28, 2012 at 8:03 AM
- Darlene B said...
I also loved Redeeming Love by Francine Rivers. The Mitford Series by Jan Karon is another great series (similar to Marie's books) where you get to know the characters so well, that you feel you are sitting in the room with them!
Thanks for the opportunity to win!
- April 28, 2012 at 8:07 AM
- Margie said...
It has to be a REALLY good book to keep my attention as I would rather be doing some kind of needlework. Just to prove this I can not even remember the last book I read, so it has been years ago!!
- April 28, 2012 at 8:20 AM
- Paula, the quilter said...
I have read the other books in this series and considered purchasing this one in the Kindle version. I will still do so if I don't win the giveaway. Thanks for hosting it!
- April 28, 2012 at 8:21 AM
- Louise in Iowa said...
I've read a lot of good ones, and it's hard to pick a favorite, but almost anything by Susan Elizabeth Phillips is at the top of the list. She has a great sense of humor, and I hate for her books to end.
- April 28, 2012 at 8:23 AM
- Mary said...
I love to read, but I don't think I could narrow it down to just one favorite book. It's like picking a favorite fabric! I have read one of the earlier books in Marie's Cobblestone Court series and loved it. Thanks for a chance to win this new book.
- April 28, 2012 at 8:31 AM
- EngrSandi said...
I have to pick a favorite? Very hard, but I love Diana Gabaldon's Outlander books. It's a series, but I was hooked from the first book, Outlander.
I have enjoyed all of Marie's Cobbled Creek Quilt series and look forward to reading this next installment in the series!
- April 28, 2012 at 8:54 AM
- Anonymous said...
I love all of Nicholas Sparks' books, I don't know if I could name just one!
Thanks for the giveaway!!
- April 28, 2012 at 8:56 AM
- ThreadCatcher said...
My favorite books are the In Death series by JD Robb.
I've recently found Maries books and have enjoyed reading them. Thanks for the chance to win her latest one.
- April 28, 2012 at 8:58 AM
- Joyce Carter said...
Happy Birthday to your beautiful daughter!
I love to read, and when I read, I escape to another world.I am not aware of anything going on around me. I read just about anything, but I really love books written by James Patterson. I love the ones he writes using the detective he calls Alex Cross.There is so much suspence going on, it is really hard to put down one of these books. Thanks so much for a chance to win this book.
- April 28, 2012 at 8:58 AM
- QuiltinGram said...
Happy Birthday to your daughter..she is gorgeous.
I love to read books. Some of my favorites are by..Emelie Richards and Jennifer Chiaverini because they include my favorite craft..quilting. Therefore, thrilled to find out about Maria's books and will be sourcing them in Canada. Winning this one to get me started would be fantastic.
CathyC in Alberta
- April 28, 2012 at 9:29 AM
- Jill said...
My favorite book is the one I am currently reading. I love each book as I read them. I read all the time.
- April 28, 2012 at 9:42 AM
- tubakk said...
I have a book called "Easy pieces" by Margaret J. Miller. There are plenty of fantastic quilts in it. I love to just sit and regard the beautiful quilts there. Thanks for the giveaway! firstname.lastname@example.com
- April 28, 2012 at 9:42 AM
- Linda at LRDesignsQuilting said...
I don't think I can narrow it down to one book! I read many genres but I have not read any of her books so would love a chance to win one! Thanks! Happy birthday to your little girl, we share the same middle name!
- April 28, 2012 at 10:02 AM
- Sally said...
favorite book of all time, no contest, 'Widard of Oz'
(followed by all the rest of the Oz books and Harry Potter books and the Lord of the Rings books.)
What do I normally read though, is mysteries!
- April 28, 2012 at 10:15 AM
- Lyn said...
I haven't read any books by Bostwick. Would love to. I have enjoyed Debbie macomber books. Thanks,
- April 28, 2012 at 10:37 AM
- Judy1522 said...
I would have a hard time picking just one book as my favorite since I do a lot of reading and sometimes have 2-3 books going at the same time. One that I just finished reading that I really liked is A Passion Most Pure by Julie Lessman it is the first in her Daughters of Boston series. I am definitely planning to read more of this authors books.
- April 28, 2012 at 11:05 AM
- BillieBee (billiemick) said...
I love to read. My memory is getting bad so I probably couldn't tell you what a book is about, but I have fun while I'm in the middle of the story.
- April 28, 2012 at 11:36 AM
- OhioLori said...
First off...Happy Birthday! to your Sweet lil' girl! :)
I've never read any of Marie's books...but would sure love to win one! Sounds wonderful! My Favorite book tho, is "Anne of Green Gables"!
Thanks for the chance to win! :)
- April 28, 2012 at 11:58 AM
- Linda at Roscoe's Ma said...
My favorite book is The Scarlet Letter. Your little girl is a cutie! Thanks for the giveaway!
- April 28, 2012 at 1:17 PM
- Cecilia said...
My favorite book is Pride and Predujice. I have read it more times than I can remember.ni also like the Anne of Green Gables series. I've read Marie's other two books and would love to win a copy of this one. Happy Birthday to your little one. :-)
- April 28, 2012 at 1:42 PM
- Lisa said...
The wheel of Time series of books by Robert Jorden. I would love to read this book because everyone is so excited about it. Thank you for the giveaway! Hope I win a copy!
- April 28, 2012 at 1:47 PM
- JoyceLM said...
Happy birthday Pip!! My favorite book is "The Lord of the Rings". Wore out my paperback copies so I bought hardbacks & the bindings on those have gotten a little loose. Just writing this comment has started me thinking it's time to reread them again. Thanks for the chance to win Marie Bostwick's new book - I love this series.
- April 28, 2012 at 2:42 PM
- Rosa said...
I love reading and belong a reading club.We met every two weeks and speak about a book.It`s fun.
I`ve never read Marie Bostwick books and love the synosis of this.
Thanks for the chance.
- April 28, 2012 at 4:07 PM
- KatieQ said...
My favorite book is "Pride and Prejudice." I first read it in high school and have reread it many times since then. My daughter has reread it so many times that she wore out one copy and is in the process of wearing out a second copy. I have a leather bound volume that no one is allowed to touch but me.
- April 28, 2012 at 4:47 PM
- Faith Hope and Cherrytea said...
thx for the wondrful post & HaPpY B'day to Pip!!
you did a great job getting me into the story & YES! do want my own copy ;) faithhopecherrytea@*gmail.*com
- April 28, 2012 at 5:18 PM
- janie said...
I have not read of Marie's books but would love to. I like you are opininated, independent and a quilter everyday.
Thanks for the giveaway
- April 28, 2012 at 5:23 PM
- janie said...
Oops forgot to tell you my favourite book, The Forgotten Garden by Kate Morton. Sorrrrry.
- April 28, 2012 at 5:25 PM
- Sherri said...
I don't know if I can pick just one favorite book!!! I have such a wide interest in so many topics! And I DO love Marie's books a lot too!
I think I will say Marie's books as they truly have been the most enjoyable read for me. :)
- April 28, 2012 at 6:16 PM
- charlotte said...
I think any of Jennifer Chiviarini's books would be on my favorite's list. I have read them all and I love them.
- April 28, 2012 at 6:23 PM
- Karen said...
I love to read and any book that has something to do with quilts is a winner for me!
- April 28, 2012 at 6:28 PM
- Karen said...
I forgot to mention my favorite book is The Notebook (even though it doesn't mention quilts).
- April 28, 2012 at 6:31 PM
- Bev C said...
Thanks for the review and a Happy Birthday to your daughter. Hope she has a great day.
I read a couple of books each fortnight from the local library so choosing a favourite is way to hard. Love reading all sorts of books.
Happy days.
- April 28, 2012 at 7:08 PM
- BengalPup said...
My favorite book series is Wheel of Time series. Totally sci fi fantasy!
- April 28, 2012 at 7:13 PM
- magicthimblecreations said...
I don't have a favorite book, just like the book I am reading at the time someone asks me. I am not reading a book right now. This book sounds interesting.
- April 28, 2012 at 7:49 PM
- Jodi - usairdoll said...
I'm an avid reader as well and have been since I was young. Two of my favorite books when I was young are "Island of the Blue Dolphin" and "Secret Garden". I read both of these books several times. I have not read any of Marie's books but they are on the list to look for now.
Thank you for a neat giveaway and a chance to win.
- April 28, 2012 at 8:47 PM
- Sharon said...
This soudns GREAT! YES! I DO want to run right over to Amazon :) And sounds like YOUR engagement story and learning to quilt would make a gerat novel too :) On myway over to the Quilt Gallery!
- April 28, 2012 at 8:48 PM
- teachpany said...
Happy Birthday, Pip! Sweet! I love books by Debbie Macomber and Jennifer Chiaverini, among others. I'm looking forward to reading this one, though. Hope I win! Thanks.
- April 28, 2012 at 8:55 PM
- Debbie said...
I don't have a favorite book, but I read all the books by Jennifer Chiaverini. I have one book by Marie, haven't had a chance to read it yet, but am looking to collect all in her "thread" series. Thanks, Kim!
- April 28, 2012 at 9:03 PM
- Sewgirl said...
I would have to say that my favorite book has been "The Secret Garden". I read it many years ago before the movie and plays came out, and reread it time and again. And I have to say that I have been an avid Harry Potter fan as well, love the fantasy world JK Rowling created.
- April 28, 2012 at 9:31 PM
- Patty said...
I like reading the books by Jennifer Chiaverini. I also enjoy any book that isn't too boring. I also "Girl With the Dragon Tatoo" and the following 2 in the series. I enjoyed them, but wish there could have been a 4th book, before the author died.
- April 28, 2012 at 10:14 PM
- Jeanne Gwin said...
I am always behind on the current reading lists but I don't care, I love to read and read lots of books. My favorite book is . I can't pick one, I have never read a book that I could say was better, best, or worst. if read with an open mind and heart, they are all my favorites. I am reading (for the 3rd time) the series Left Behind, amazing the things one misses. I love to re-read my books of course.
- April 28, 2012 at 10:20 PM
- Vesuviusmama said...
My favorite book is probably The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein. My favorite quilting book is Scrap Quilts: The Art of Making Do by Roberta Horton. And I absolutely love Webster's Dictionary!
- April 28, 2012 at 10:51 PM
- stichnRN said...
cute pattern!!!!
- April 28, 2012 at 10:57 PM
- Loris said...
A single book is a tough choice to make. I love reading Jane Austen and Anne Tyler. Upon reading the first pages of Ties That Bind though, I may truly have a favorite in Marie's books. I can't wait to read them.
Thanks for hosting the giveaway and Happy Birthday to Pip!
- April 28, 2012 at 11:32 PM
- Renee G said...
I like A Discovery of Witches by Deborah Harkness.
- April 29, 2012 at 12:56 AM
- Estie said...
One of my favorite books is the Thirteenth Tale...what a mystery! Thanks for participating in the book giveaway.
- April 29, 2012 at 7:04 AM
- Gene Black said...
Picking a favorite book is difficult for someone who reads so much. But, I have to say that one I read over and over is Walking on Water: Reflections on Faith and Art by Madeleine L'Engle. I find a connection in it to my need to create.
I would love to win Marie's book. Thanks for hosting a stop on the blog hop.
- April 29, 2012 at 7:06 AM
- pinsandneedles said...
I love to read and have read all of Marie Bostwick's stories and loved them. I would have to say that if I needed to pick my all time favorite book it would have to be Redeeming Love by Francine Rivers! Thanks
- April 29, 2012 at 9:45 AM
- The Thimblemouse of Country Crossroads said...
There's been so many books - I read all the time - can't pick just one title. But I do know, my favorite books will move me - they'll make me laugh, shed some tears - and make me sad when the last word is read.
- April 29, 2012 at 10:38 AM
- stephkc said...
My favorite is Pride & Prejudice.
- April 29, 2012 at 7:11 PM
- Dee said...
I love a good mystery and love Kay Howard's books. Would love to give this book a go.
- April 29, 2012 at 10:33 PM
- Sandra said...
My recent most favorit book is "Into the Free" by Julie Cantrell. I also love Marie's book and am looking forward to reading the new one.
- April 30, 2012 at 1:40 AM
- Annmarie said...
Your review was great - thanks! I love Maries's books. I love LOTS of books - so hard to pick a favorite but I'll go with The Host by Stephanie Meyers for now.
- April 30, 2012 at 9:48 AM
- Kd Brown said...
I love Suzanne Woods Fisher's Amish fiction book The Keeper, but I also love all of Marie Bostwick's books. You can contact me at: brown [dot] k [at] centurytel [dot] net . Thanks for a great giveaway. :)
- April 30, 2012 at 11:21 AM
- Sandy said...
Have read the previous books by Marie and recommend them. I am looking forward to this one.
hope to win one.
- April 30, 2012 at 12:49 PM
- Faith Hope and Cherrytea said...
forgot to add my fave book to my comment soooo...
would have to say probably Anne of Green Gables ~ classic good read!
ty for hosting this great new read on the tour !
- April 30, 2012 at 2:12 PM
- Celine said...
I am not sure what my favorite book is. I love the Jennifer Chiaverani novels. I have also recently discovered some crime/quilting novels that I have loved as well. Agatha Christie is/was my favorite author for a long time. Thanks for the chance to win this book. I don't know Marie yet but I have added her books to my amazon wish list since I have read the book synopsis during the blog hop.
Celine_Combet at yahoo.co.uk
- April 30, 2012 at 3:17 PM
- Carol said...
I don't have a favourite book, but Jane Austen's books would be among them. I read a lot of mysteries and have dozens of favourite authors, but I could never pick just one author, let alone one book.
- April 30, 2012 at 4:49 PM
- Karen said...
I haven't read any of Marie's books but would love to win one!
- May 1, 2012 at 8:45 AM
- Anonymous said...
My favorite book is "Redfield Farm" about the Underground Railroad. My first quilt was by Eleanor Burns - Underground Railroad. I would Love a chance to Win your book, Ties That Bind", and will introduce it to my quilting and sewing groups!
- May 1, 2012 at 10:50 AM
- Karrie said...
I seriously don't have a favorite book. It feels like when I choose one, I am cheating on another book. I am reading Dry by Augusten Burroughs right now. I love that man.
THanks for the chance to win. I've read the other Cobbled Quilt books by Marie Bostwick and I love them all.
- May 1, 2012 at 1:01 PM
- Karrie said...
I don't have a favorite book. I have so many favorites, that I feel like I'm cheating on them when I say one is my favorite over another.
- May 1, 2012 at 1:20 PM
- Sher S. said...
I love all books and can't just pick one. I've read the first book by Marie and have the others to continue in the journey. Thanks for offering the new one.
- May 1, 2012 at 1:35 PM
Sign Up for my Newsletter!
Blog Archive
- Home Sweet Home – Truffula Tree Sashing Tutorial
- A Birthday, A Book Review and a GIVEAWAY
- Home Sweet Home – Birds in the Bushes Sashing Tuto...
- Home Sweet Home – Trees in Blossom Bonus Sashing
- BOM & QAL's – Monday Update
- 'ties that bind' by Marie Bostwick – a blog hop bo...
- Home Sweet Home – Hexagon Forest Sashing
- Home Sweet Home – BONUS Block – Acid Cottage from ...
- Home Sweet Home – Shoo Fly Sashing
- RAW Madison Stimulus Video & Guest Blogger
- Home Sweet Home – String a Flower Garden Sashing B...
- Home Sweet Home – BONUS Block – Rippling Pond from...
- I'm 30!!!!
- What's Your Style: Boho
- BOM's & QA's – Monday Update
- BONUS Block – Home Sweet Home Quilt Along: Marcia'...
- Block 16 – Home Sweet Home Quilt Along 'Branch Swe...
- Home Sweet Home Sashing BONUS – 36 patch
- Block 15: Home Sweet Home Quilt Along – Home for H...
- Project QUILTING: Ziggin & A Zaggin - A Closer Loo...
- ▼ April (20)
- ► 2011 (225)
- ► 2010 (276)
- ► 2009 (302)
Popular Posts
WOW! WOW! WOW! I was absolutely blown away by the number of amazing entries that were submitted for the first challenge! You all made a ...
I started this quilt way back in February of 2011 when a friend of mine on etsy sent me the link for Amy Butler's Bloom Pattern . As soon...
Everyone super excited to see what Block 3 for the quilt along is going to be. Before we get there I want to introduce you to today's desig...
I am a HUGE HUGE HUGE fan of Project Runway. I don't have cable so I always wait patiently for each season to come out on Netflix and then ...
Yeah! It's time for the sixth block of the Home Sweet Home Quilt Along . After today's tutorial we should all have at least 6 bloc...


text:
For cave exploring in Ontario this one is possibly one of the more exciting possibilities. This past weekend Jeff and I explored the tunnels for some short distance, but we were turned back by the conditions which were less than favourable – namely the cold, the prospect of a storm on the surface and my knee pads which kept sagging down and so my knees were torn to shreds.
nevertheless, for Adventure in Ontario I am still optimistic of eventually reaching the end. Thus far several pushes have not revealed the sump-point. On one trip we reached a spot called the aero-foil and past that a squeeze then bigger tunnels beyond.
I am thinking that the cave goes deep and the many sinkholes in the area must meet up with these tunnels somewhere beyond where we have crawled.
see the video here for Adventure in Ontario, Exploring the Wasteland Waterway Cave, Caving in Ontario, Canada

subset: commoncrawl


text:
Reba McEntire gets inducted into the Hollywood Bowl Hall of Fame.
Kenny Chesney connects with online fans in special concert.
Billy Ray Cyrus takes on Broadway as a slick lawyer in Chicago.
Sugarland "hand" delivers a magical night in Chicago.
The Lumineers are still trying to get used to having fans.


text:
PhoneDog's innovative comparison tool can help you save on cell phones and plans. Find the best phone and plan for you today with PhoneDog!
The Kyocera Coast flip phone offers a 480 MHz Qualcomm processor, 256 MB internal storage, A-GPS, T9 predictive text,...
Beau Hamilton
19 hours 18 min ago
Alex Wagner
3 days 2 hours ago
Evan Selleck
3 days 3 hours ago
6 days 17 hours ago
More Featured Articles
Apple iPhone XR
Amazing Phone
reviewed by woodbash
Samsung Galaxy J3 Orbit
J3 orbit
reviewed by Blastroid
LG Phoenix 4
reviewed by Hollygoodz
More Reviews
More Videos


text:
Beating the Odds
College of Education students, staff, and alumni work closely with Philadelphia's Isaac A. Sheppard Elementary School, which is paying big dividends for both schools.
Ten years ago, James Otto was assigned to Isaac A. Sheppard Elementary School to close it down. But during his second year as principal of this small elementary school in a challenged urban neighborhood, Penn State's College of Education found Sheppard.
From there, the institutions established a partnership, which Otto credits for helping Sheppard rise above people's expectations for the school.
"Penn State is part of the lifeblood of Sheppard," said Otto, who retired as principal of Sheppard in June 2013 and whose respect for the University is evident when speaking with him. "Our school probably would have closed if it had not been for Penn State."
"Penn State is part of the lifeblood of Sheppard. Our school probably would have closed if it had not been for Penn State."—James Otto
A Pipeline of Talent
"A lot of my staff graduated from Penn State. Three of my current teachers were student teachers from Penn State," said Otto, again citing the quality of students coming from the College of Education as the reason for hiring. "The College of Education does a fantastic job preparing (students). Every semester we get a new batch of student teachers who, year after year, make us better."
Keeley Gray, 2008 College of Education alumna, is a third-grade teacher at Sheppard who fell in love with the school when she completed her student teaching there. She sees her students growing with weekly online tutoring sessions via iChat between students at Sheppard and volunteer students from the College of Education.
"I am involved in iChat for third and fourth grade," said Gray. "(My students) get homework help and extra help they need academically. It is also so great to see them have someone else to talk to and form relationships with."
Stephanie Ironside, a secondary education major and online tutor, said she thought becoming a tutor was a great opportunity."Having this experience with the younger kids is benefiting me in educational psychology and adolescent development. It is making me more well-rounded as a student," Ironside said. "I think it is a great experience. I recommend it."
"Every semester we get a new batch of Penn State student teachers who, year after year, make us better."
—James Otto
As part of the special relationship between the two institutions, elementary students, their families, and staff from Sheppard visit Penn State's University Park campus.
They get to spend time with their iChat tutors in person as they tour the campus, which this year included stops at the Berkey Creamery, the All-Sports Museum and Beaver Stadium, and the Nittany Lion Shrine, as well as exposure to college residence halls and classrooms.
"For a population for whom the terms 'college' or 'university' are not part of their lexicon, this is just a remarkable experience," said Otto. "We have brought anywhere from 50 to 60 children here over the course of the last several years with their parents, many of whom have never been to college or seen colleges."
According to Otto, Sheppard is regularly under the threat of closure. Last year, the school was once again on a list of schools to be closed. However, that did not happen. Otto said that rising test scores and other data indicated to the School District of Philadelphia that the students at Sheppard were thriving.
"We are in a community that has lots of challenges: poverty, unemployment, drug traffic," said Otto. "Our kids live in challenging circumstances. Penn State raised the school to the point where the school district realized that they could not afford to close Sheppard."
For now, Sheppard is beating the odds, and Otto said were it not for Penn State, there would be no Sheppard.
"It is Penn State that has given us the strength and courage to push on when every one else is saying to close the little, old schools because they are no longer relevant," said Otto. "My staff last year proved to the school district that we were relevant, and a large part of that relevance comes from Penn State."


text:
MAGNETOM Verio Upgrade
Upgrade your MAGNETOM Verio to MAGNETOM Skyrafit
Upgrade your MAGNETOM Verio to the new MAGNETOM Skyrafit. With MAGNETOM Skyrafit, the full applications coverage is standard and advanced new applications are available. The accuracy of Tim 4G is integrated with the intuitive protocol configuration and management by DotGO1. Accommodate a wide variety of patients, benefit from a higher SNR for clinical and research imaging, and expand your MRI services.
Benefit from fast protocols and quieter exams for uncooperative patients and higher patient satisfaction. With the MAGNETOM Skyrafit Upgrade advanced protocols for cerebro-spinal fluid are ready for use, such as: flow compensated Spin-Echo sequence and SPACE DIR. High-resolution diffusion imaging e.g. RESOLVE, perfusion imaging, and multi-contrast fMRI are available. The Brain Dot Engine, included in the fit Upgrade, helps increase consistency, even during the examination.
With the new Ortho Suite protocols joint imaging improves for C-spine imaging, and foot-ankle area. And Tim 4G's new ultra high-density coils for muskuloskeletal imaging, e.g. Shoulder 16 and Foot/Ankle 16, improve SNR and anatomic coverage. Dot features AutoAlign and AutoCoverage for knee, hip, and shoulder and MPR planning for fast 3D measurements. And they even include Advanced WARP1,2, e.g. Large Joint Dot Engine to reduce metal implant induced artifacts.
The Cardiac Suite has improvements in T2 cardiac imaging and improvements for applications, ranging from morphology and ventricular function to tissue characterization. And the new MyoMaps1 provides valuable diagnostic information about subtle changes in tissue composition - on the fly. With the Cardiac Dot Engine, simplify cardiac localization with AutoAlign Heart and integrate Cardiac MR into your clinical routine.
Body MRI
Ultra-fast, high-resolution, 2D and 3D protocols (e.g. CAIPIRINHA) are provided for abdomen, pelvis, MR Colonography, MRCP, dynamic kidney, and MR Urography applications. With our brand-new FREEZEit1 you embrace motion in body MRI, instead of succumbing to it. With the Abdomen Dot Engine, standard and efficient image of the upper abdomen is possible. Non-invasive liver imaging with tissue characterization is now possible with LiverLab1.
CAIPIRINHA is a unique new iPAT 2 sequence technique which can be applied to volumetric 3D imaging e.g. in the abdominal region or in angiographic examinations. CAIPIRINHA patterns distribute k-space points more uniformly, enabling significant acceleration at comparable image quality.
Specific protocols can be adapted for imaging infants3 and with high-density coils in Tim 4G a fast and high-resolution image is possible. E.g. Pediatric 16 coil.
With MAGNETOM Skyrafit Upgrade a higher SNR is feasible and with Angio Suite excellent MR Angiography can be performed to visualize arteries and veins with or without contrast agent. The Angio Dot Engine optimizes bolus timing in contrast studies, while real-time graphics and AutoVoice Commands assist in the timing of breathing, scanning, and contrast media.
With MAGNETOM Skyrafit Upgrade it is possible to acquire whole-body coverage for metastasis staging in a single, continuous move with the TimCT Onco Dot Engine. With Tim 4G a faster and higher resolution image benefiting oncologic imaging is possible.
Breast MRI
From clinical imaging to biopsy guidance, you can count on a wide selection of breast coils and outstanding image quality. The Breast Dot Engine offers different workflows e.g. for implants, easing the distinction between fat and water peaks consistently.
Prostate MRI
With the high-density spine and body coils alone or in combination with an endorectal coil, the MAGNETOM Skyrafit Upgrade enables excellent multi-parametric imaging of the prostate in terms of morphology, physiology, and function.
syngo.via is a comprehensive imaging IT solution, helping you to process read and share images faster and easier. For both routine and advanced MR interpretation.
It can be seamlessly integrated with MAGNETOM Skyrafit, improving workflow not only at the scanner, but throughout the organization.
Start your engines for routine, oncology, neurology, and cardiovascular cases:
- syngo.MR General Engine
- syngo.MR Onco Engine
- syngo.MR Spectro Engine
- syngo.MR Cardio Engine
- syngo.MR Neuro Perfusion Engine
- syngo.MR Tissue4D
- syngo.MR Tractography
- syngo.MR Vascular Analysis
and benefit from numerous applications transforming the way you view, read, and evaluate with your MR images.
General Requirements
Related Products, Services & Resources
1The product is currently under development; is not for sale in the U.S. and other countries. Its future availability cannot be guaranteed.
2The MRI restrictions (if any) of the metal implant must be considered prior to patient undergoing MRI exam. MR imaging of patients with metallic implants brings specific risks. However, certain implants are approved by the governing regulatory bodies to be MR conditionally safe. For such implants, the previously mentioned warning may not be applicable. Please contact the implant manufacturer for the specific conditional information. The conditions for MR safety are the responsibility of the implant manufacturer, not of Siemens.
3MR scanning has not been established as safe for imaging fetuses and infants under two years of age. The responsible physician has to decide about the benefit of the MRI examination in comparison to other imaging procedures.


text:
H is for ... HEROES!
My family tree is chock full of men who served in the military or law enforcement (or both). Here are the ones I have confirmed, in reverse chronological order.
First, is my dad, Jon Lanctot. He served in the U.S. Army during Vietnam. My grandmother told me a story about when I was just a couple of months old. I was very sick with something called pyloric stenosis and needed surgery immediately. My doctor was Dr. Todd, who had been the family's doctor for a very long time. My dad had orders to be deployed overseas a few days later. He called my dad's commanding officer and asked him to delay the orders. The CO refused. Dr. Todd mentioned that he thought my dad was looking like he might be getting pretty sick too, and might need to be hospitalized for several weeks, possibly even months. The orders were delayed.
|John J. Gallagher
Next is my maternal grandfather, John Gallagher. He served in the U.S. Army Air Corps, I think in the mid- to late 1940s. I'm not exactly sure what he did, but I'm positive that he did it very well.
He was also a police officer in Ridgefield, New Jersey for many years, and then worked as a food stamp fraud investigator for the Adjutant General's office at the Department of Agriculture.
|Ed Lanctot
Next is my paternal grandfather, Ed Lanctot. He served in the 147th Field Artillery Battalion of the South Dakota Army National Guard during WWII. I posted about him previously here.
|James Lanctot & Co.
My paternal granduncle, Vernon G. "Bud" Slowey served with James and Ed Lanctot in the 147th of the South Dakota National Guard.
My maternal granduncle, Harold Crowe Jr., was a Sergeant in the U.S. Army Air Corps during World War II. He enlisted at Ft. Benjamin Harrison in Indiana on October 31, 1942.
|Charles W. Crowe
Another maternal granduncle, Charles William Crowe, joined the U.S. Navy in 1944 at the age of 17. He retired in 1971 as a Commander. He was an aircraft carrier pilot on the USS Midway.
In 1917, my maternal great grandfather, Harold John Crowe, enlisted in the Indiana Army National Guard and served during WWI.
My maternal great granduncle, Eugene L. "Tex" Stiker, enlisted in the Indiana Army National Guard in 1922.
To all of these men ... and all the ones for whom I haven't confirmed military or law enforcement service ... Hats off to you! Heroes all!
Do we share any ancestors?
Please email me at lostancestors [at] gmail [dot] com


text:
Wednesday, January 19, 2011
Fear of the Spotlight
Posted by Lydia Kang at 6:30 AM
77 comments:
- Liza said...
It used to be that to some degree authors could hybernate, but now they are forced to market themselves via Facebook, Twitter, Blogs, etc. It's pretty hard to remain mysterious. And yes, it worries me.
- January 19, 2011 at 6:39 AM
- Christine Danek said...
I have thought about this. I'm not sure I will ever get to this point, people knowing who I am or an authentic author, but this thought has crossed my mind. There are many scary folks out there. With technology it's hard not to hide. Yes, scary.
- January 19, 2011 at 6:43 AM
- Jessica Bell said...
Scary emails from a writing fan? Really? Wow. Nope. I've never even thought about stuff like this. guess I'm going to now ...
- January 19, 2011 at 6:44 AM
- Renae said...
It is scary to think about. We're told to become a part of social networks and get our names out there and yes I think that does cause some vulnerability.
- January 19, 2011 at 6:44 AM
- J.B. Chicoine said...
This is a relly interesting topic...While I tend to think the best of people, I have always found felt somewhat uncomfortable with on-line interactions (though not so much as I used to). I am a private person and yet I know that building an online presence is important for getting established as a writer--hopefully a published one. I'm often in a quandry over just how far to put myself out there in this oftentimes creepy world...
- January 19, 2011 at 6:46 AM
- Candyland said...
There are times it freaks me out because even though I spill online, I'm private in life. Ironic, I know.
- January 19, 2011 at 6:48 AM
- S.A. Larsenッ said...
This is a subject that really must be pondered. Yeah, it can be scary for many reasons. My husband and I have actually talked about it. I think being cautious and paying attention is key.
- January 19, 2011 at 6:57 AM
- Magan said...
There is something I like about being an author that Nathan Bransford brought up. You don't instantlly get recognized on the street. I could actually go to a movie and not have to worry about people wanting my photo. But in this day and age you can never be too careful. I may be known as the Fangirl, but I know there are probably other crazier fangirls and fanboys that are probably way scarier than me.
- January 19, 2011 at 7:17 AM
- Angela said...
- This comment has been removed by the author.
- January 19, 2011 at 7:31 AM
- Angela said...
I always say I'm not jealous of fame, just fortune.
It is dangerous to be famous, particularly very famous. I don't think I'd worry about getting a book published unless it went on to be a household read like Twilight. If I were Stephenie Meyer, I would be very afraid.
- January 19, 2011 at 7:32 AM
- Emily Rose said...
I understand where you come from in terms of safety. I myself want to be published, but it is very dangerous to have your name out there. Especially if you write about politics, or or speak out against the norm. A pen name is a good way to cover up your identity, and still write about what you want. JK Rowling did it to help sell her books, because they feared that boys wouldn't buy Harry Potter if they knew she was a woman. Creating an identity might help you feel more secure about having your wonderful writing out there.
- January 19, 2011 at 8:04 AM
- Giles Hash said...
It can be terrifying sometimes when you're out in the open and people notice you. Sometimes it scares me to think that some obsessed fan might try to hurt me or my family, but then I remember, "I'm not famous, so I'm not going to worry about that now."
I don't want crazy fans, but if I get one or two, I'll deal with it. Until then, I'll just enjoy writing and attempting to get published.
- January 19, 2011 at 8:19 AM
- Carol Kilgore said...
Paranoia lives with me. I don't think about it every waking moment, but it lurks in the back of my mind. And since I write mystery/suspense, I can think of a lot of scary scenarios. I don't want to be the protagonist of any of them.
- January 19, 2011 at 8:24 AM
- B.E. Sanderson said...
I've thought about this. I mean, some of the subject matter in a couple of my books is probably going to tick off some nutjob somewhere. Why else do you think I use my initials instead of my name? (Not that some enterprising young psycho couldn't find me anyway, but it gives me the illusion of anonymity.)
- January 19, 2011 at 8:27 AM
- BECKY said...
Hi Lydia....yes, interesting subject. I'm not afraid of fame. I think it's partly because of what I write...personal essays, some humorous, some nostalgic...I'm probably being naive saying that, but I feel it's different than a lot of fiction types...By the way, I still haven't used the marvelous gift certificate I won from you, but I definitely will! It's just a matter of time! Thanks again for that!!
- January 19, 2011 at 8:28 AM
- Alleged Author said...
Hi Sarah!
That is way freaky that an author friend got scary emails. I often wondered what people like Stephanie Meyers and J.K. Rowling do because their books are so famous.
- January 19, 2011 at 8:32 AM
- Laura Pauling said...
I try to think about it. I mean, bad things happen and there are many ways to pick up a stalker. Hopefully that doesn't happen to too many authors!
- January 19, 2011 at 8:34 AM
- Unknown said...
I've always figured that hate mail was a good thing because people are reading what you have to say..and it's making some sort of impression. I think with the right PR you could be in the spotlight and mysterious at the same time. Celebrities do it all the time,
- January 19, 2011 at 8:49 AM
- Linda Kage said...
Actually, I wrote a romantic suspense and read a little to my husband. He arched his brow and said, "You realize every wacko that reads this is going to want to talk to you if you publish it."
Made me pause and say, "hmm, what a scary thought. maybe I don't want to write suspense"
- January 19, 2011 at 8:50 AM
- Jess said...
I can honestly say I've never been worried about safety issues (although I've known about crazed fans ever since I saw the movie MISERY), but the privacy thing definitely has crossed my mind.
- January 19, 2011 at 8:54 AM
- Bossy Betty said...
I don't really think about safety. I try to keep a positive outlook in all things. Sometimes it's hard though, isn't it?
Hope you have a great day!
- January 19, 2011 at 9:08 AM
- Matthew MacNish said...
I'm a big strong man, so I'm not scared of anything or anyone.
Just kidding. You actually never know with people, and some of them are very dangerous. I could not imagine being Stephen King or someone that famous and having to worry about crazed fans and stalkers. Thankfully the likelihood of becoming that famous is slim.
- January 19, 2011 at 9:13 AM
- Erinn said...
I'm always worried that my books don't have a positive message and that people will take it the wrong way. Also I'm worried that my career will interfere with my writing. I'm constantly terrified that an outraged parent will try to get me fired.
- January 19, 2011 at 9:24 AM
- Saumya said...
That is scary! When I heard about the shooting it broke my heart because the people were, at the end of the day, killed for doing their job :(. I can't believe your friend got a scary e-mail from a reader! I guess this is one of the downsides of putting yourself out there.
- January 19, 2011 at 9:37 AM
- Saumya said...
P.S. I'm sure you deal with that in other degrees in medicine as well!
- January 19, 2011 at 9:38 AM
- Connie Keller said...
I do think about it. While I was in college my roommates and I had a stalker (this was before the anti-stalking laws), and we learned that you have to be wise, but you can't live your life in fear.
- January 19, 2011 at 9:39 AM
- Hermana Maw said...
I do worry. It only takes one less than stable person to mess up your life. There has to be a ballance between concern and faith in humanity. Still trying to find it though.
- January 19, 2011 at 9:39 AM
- Melissa said...
Oh great....
I'm paranoid as hell already.... this is so not going to help.
I gues it's a trade off though. I can deal with the crazy fans (if I get any) as long as I have that one or two who makes me feel like it was all worth... and I totally have that already in my mom and best friend.
- January 19, 2011 at 10:09 AM
- Munk said...
I give it no mind share, I also rail against the phrase, "in this day and age" unless I am discussing technology.
In terms of acceptance and social awareness, the world is a better (and safer) place now than it used to be (when counted by centuries or decades, not by years or minutes. And assuming sensitive people like yourself (or Gabby Giffords)continue to speak out, the world will continue its positive trajectory.
- January 19, 2011 at 10:27 AM
- Old Kitty said...
Oh I just hope you fab authors about to be published that I'm getting to know in blogworld will be ok and not garner any stalkers and such nasty people!!! :-(
Take care
- January 19, 2011 at 10:56 AM
- Ghenet Myrthil said...
Yikes! I haven't thought about this too much in terms of being a writer, but it's definitely scary. You have to be cautious! I've been thinking of using a pen name (or a modified version of my name) if I get published, because my name is hard to pronounce. The other benefit of that would be added privacy.
- January 19, 2011 at 11:13 AM
- Krispy said...
I think it's a legitimate concern to have, but I'd like to hope the good outweighs the bad and unless you're J.K. Rowling, at least authorhood in general isn't like instant celebrity.
- January 19, 2011 at 11:35 AM
- Melissa Gill said...
Unfortunately danger lurks everywhere. It could be an obsessed fan, or a random accident. I just have to give those things to God. He has a plan and He expects me to work with him on it, but if it's my time, it's my time.
- January 19, 2011 at 11:36 AM
- Heather said...
In my line of work I'm used to always looking over my shoulder anyway so I'm prepared for this. Still, writing is a pretty solitary thing and stepping into that spotlight is the opposite. It's a bad world out there and we have to be prepared.
- January 19, 2011 at 11:37 AM
- Jacqueline Howett said...
Its a funny world today, and its wise to be a little alert. Take a moment to do 'a little' research, then weigh the odds. And not too fast to race into trouble. But really, the positive side of thinking, please! By the way, is this Blog really you? or is this blog enough proof? Whatever, I like your Blog, thats why I am here.
- January 19, 2011 at 11:38 AM
- Krista said...
Interesting thoughts. I'd never considered this before (thanks for giving me another reason to be awake at night! Jokes...). I guess it doesn't worry me too much because having a book published is so far away. Maybe I'll start waking up in deep sweats if/when it starts becoming more real.
- January 19, 2011 at 11:39 AM
- Sarah said...
I feel like living is an extremely dangerous act. Sure increased notoriety can bring the attention of the crazies, but plenty of non-authors have been stalked, too.
Do what you love and deal with the consequences. :)
- January 19, 2011 at 11:46 AM
- Golden Eagle said...
I've thought about this, but I still think the positives of being a known author would outweigh the negatives.
- January 19, 2011 at 12:46 PM
- Meredith said...
Huh. I never thought about this, but I'm always careful to not reveal too much online. A stalker would be so scary!
- January 19, 2011 at 12:46 PM
- Christopher said...
I'm not nearly interesting enough to stalk. Plus, I generally get along ok with crazy people.
- January 19, 2011 at 12:48 PM
- Nas said...
Great post and timely reminder. Thanks.
- January 19, 2011 at 12:56 PM
- Unknown said...
privacy is definitely a reason some authors chose alternate names, often their maiden name or such--just to keep their private lives a little more private.
- January 19, 2011 at 1:26 PM
- Roland D. Yeomans said...
If I ever should get published (which I'm becoming increasingly to doubt), I will be just one of many struggling authors on the bottom-rung of the selling list.
Very few of us will ever hit the Stephen King or even the Patricia Briggs level of success. If we do, I think the wise move is just to enjoy the ride.
Tomorrow is promised to no one. Breathe each breath deeply, savoring the beauty each moment brings in some small way.
As always, Lydia, you have written an insightful, thought-provoking post. May your end of week be great.
By the way, any suggestions for surviving a bothersome cold? LOL.
- January 19, 2011 at 2:05 PM
- Plamena Schmidt said...
If I wasn't scared before, I definitely am now : P
Actually, I have thought about this and I'm not really scared. If I was an actress, then I definitely would be really concerned.
- January 19, 2011 at 3:05 PM
- M Pax said...
Yes, it worries me some. I've known authors who have had to deal with stalkers.
A serious reason to perhaps consider a pen name.
- January 19, 2011 at 3:10 PM
- Unknown said...
Interesting thoughts. I've never actually thought about that, I'm still focusing on getting my novel out. But, the one thing I would fear is getting angry letters from readers, or even obsessive readers.
- January 19, 2011 at 3:18 PM
- Carol Riggs said...
Yes...there are definitely some disturbed people out there. It's something all writers should contemplate. Not excessively so, but to have thought about it ahead of time. Especially if you want to take on a pseudonym like M. Pax suggests (good idea).
- January 19, 2011 at 3:27 PM
- BK Mattingly said...
One of the things I'm most worried about is similar to this...it's what do I do when someone who hasn't read my book starts to attack it and takes my words out of context? I still haven't worked that one out yet. I'm trying to just not worry about it until I have to, though, that's not always easy.
- January 19, 2011 at 3:36 PM
- Alex J. Cavanaugh said...
That is why I maintain a level of privacy. And I feel bad, because blogging friends want to know more about me, my family, where I live, what I look like, etc. For my family's safety (and sanity) I need to keep a low profile though.
- January 19, 2011 at 4:03 PM
- Southpaw said...
Yeah. You never know what will set someone off and it can be something really obscure so safety is imperative.
- January 19, 2011 at 4:49 PM
- E. Arroyo said...
Awesome!! Congrats and love the title of this post. LOL.
- January 19, 2011 at 4:50 PM
- E. Arroyo said...
I'm typing to fast. That last comment was for your previous post.
I don't think there's any real privacy anymore. not with everything out in cyberspace. I'm not totally scared. After working with families in their own homes, I already been through scary moments. Scary, stalker dudes or dudettes are not the norm. At least I hope not.
- January 19, 2011 at 4:55 PM
Well, shrinks lead (generally) pretty private lives. The less our patients know about us, the less our lives interfere in therapy. On the other hand, writers have to get the word out.
It's a fine line.
- January 19, 2011 at 5:44 PM
- Raquel Byrnes said...
You know, it never occurred to me that as an author I'd ever have to deal with a reader...I mean...my information is out there so why didn't it cross my mind?
Thought provoking topic...
Edge of Your Seat Romance
- January 19, 2011 at 6:32 PM
- Myne said...
I have not had this experience as an author and I'm grateful. In my online interactions prior on a message board, I did get someone who became fixated but it never went beyond that forum. It's really a risk.
- January 19, 2011 at 7:22 PM
- Chris Phillips said...
I get where you are coming from and I'm sure I will be paranoid as an author, but a large part of me would rather be at risk than afraid.
- January 19, 2011 at 9:28 PM
- Denise Covey said...
The world can be a scary place but we cannot live in fear. A thoughtful post Lydia.
I came over to invite you as an aspiring author to my Publication Party. It's in the second week now and this week's guest author is Clarissa Draper who is telling us her journey to publication. It is amazing. I hope you can find time in your 25-hour day to come over and take a peek!
Denise :)
- January 19, 2011 at 11:00 PM
- Jai Joshi said...
It's always a good thing to be safe as an author. Authors aren't as in the public eye as actors or musicians or politicians but we are in the public eye and we do have people who know us and pay attention to what we're doing.
It's best to keep private things private. To never have information like home address, home phone or information about family members in the public domain. And be safe when we're traveling to market and publicise our work.
Other than that, all we can do is write from the heart, promote our work, and hope for the best.
- January 20, 2011 at 12:56 AM
- Katie Gates said...
A certain amount of fear (that is based on intuition as opposed to paranoia) is well-placed in any venue and with any title or avocation. I once worked with a very creepy man who scares me to this day. He also informed a character in my novel, and so his presence in my life -- however frightening at the moment -- had a place of good use... As for the Arizona tragedy, it clearly revealed that one doesn't have to be in the limelight to be in danger. No place or position is safe, unfortunately.
- January 20, 2011 at 1:49 AM
- The Happy Whisk said...
I don't think about this, no. But I did enjoy your post.
- January 20, 2011 at 3:56 AM
- Samantha Vérant said...
Wait! Where did the herpes go??? Your post title is in my sidebar!
Gimme some sugar, Froggy Baby
- January 20, 2011 at 5:43 AM
- Vicki Rocho said...
I try not to think about this. We do need to be careful, but I don't think we can let it stop us in our tracks.
- January 20, 2011 at 6:50 AM
- Lisa Gail Green said...
There are so many dangers in this world, the likelihood of something like that... well, I don't think it should stop us from pursuing our dreams.
- January 20, 2011 at 9:48 AM
- Olga said...
I don't think any popular person has ever managed to avoid being on the spot. Unfortunately, that's a price one has to pay for one's success.
- January 20, 2011 at 10:31 AM
- Jonene Ficklin said...
Lydia, you always come up with great ideas for posts, and I love all the insightful comments. Yes, I have thought about it, and yes, I have worried. But most people are helpful. The famous authors community is small and tight. They support each other. If (and that's a big IF, but here's to hoping) that ever happens, I know there are great people out there sharing their wisdom. Thanks again!
- January 20, 2011 at 10:46 AM
- Unknown said...
As an introvert who naturally prefers to stay *out* of the spotlight, coming forward to actively promote my writing has been a major point of growth for me. It often makes me uncomfortable, even a little mournful over my lost solitude sometimes, but I've yet to be afraid of the potential dangers of the spotlight. I've definitely run across some kooks, but most of them are easily turned away. And the kooks are far outnumbered by the wonderful writers and readers I've been able to meet.
- January 20, 2011 at 11:16 AM
- Unknown said...
I used to be super paranoid. Now I'm not too worried about it. I do keep my hometown a secret and use 'Code names' in lieu of using my family's real names.
Something to think about though *nods*
- January 20, 2011 at 11:58 AM
- Walt Mussell said...
I have never worried about this as I'm pretty scary on my own. :-) However, my lovely significant other goes back and forth on whether or not I should use a different name.
- January 20, 2011 at 12:48 PM
- Robert Guthrie said...
I'm not a big fan of worry. Life's too short and, ultimately, good.
- January 20, 2011 at 2:26 PM
- Beth said...
I don't think it's paranoid to be cautious. But, having published three books (to very little fanfare), I can promise you that I'm just as anonymous as ever!
- January 20, 2011 at 4:18 PM
- Phoenix said...
Being an actress, I'm also at risk (not just for blogging) but I've tried to side-step it by trying to really humanize myself with my blog. You know, show my good days, show my bad days, show the spinach in my teeth... and hopefully the stalker finds someone else to idolize. If I see stalker-like tendencies in people, I do tend to back away a bit and put up stronger boundaries, and that's worked (so far.) But I do not envy those who have actually been stalked. Ugh.
- January 20, 2011 at 5:31 PM
- Janna Leadbetter said...
It's a good post and a valid point, Lydia! I think we need to be cautious (with personal info and such, for instance), but avoid paranoia. That would be unhealthy.
- January 20, 2011 at 7:39 PM
- Emy Shin said...
I have definitely thought about this a great deal. While I doubt I'll ever be an author popular enough to enter the spotlight, putting so much personal info online can be scary. I'm trying to be more careful about what I put out there, personally.
- January 23, 2011 at 11:37 AM
- Hema Penmetsa said...
A great question, Lydia! And one I have thought about, too. What also has keeps me up at nights occasionally is, how does one deal with the fact that you're only as good as your latest book (even if you have had a dozen hits in your kitty before)? :-)
Thanks for stopping by blog! And 600 followers? I am impressed!! Congratulations!
- January 24, 2011 at 11:31 AM
- Ishta Mercurio said...
Actually, I got followed while I was walking to the grocery store once - not because of my writing, but because of my hair. I never publicize the town I live in now; my pic is online, so my address is not. You have to be careful, in my opinion.
- January 27, 2011 at 10:48 AM
- Unknown said...
This reminds me of that time that I crashed my car and Kathy Bates carried me to her house…
I kid, but I had an old blog a couple years back which had enough clues as to my real name and location that a stalky reader tracked me down at my job – even though I'd made it clear that such behavior would be unwelcome.
The security guard downstairs STILL has a picture of him at the security desk.
I'm not a big people person to begin with, and there are SO many lonesome people out there looking for someone/thing to fill the hole in their lives. How could that NOT be scary for a writer?
- February 3, 2011 at 12:28 PM
- aisyahputrisetiawan said...
I say many thanks to Mr. admin website I read this, because in this website I know a lot of information information that I did not know before his
Konsumsi Teh Hitam Setiap Hari Dan Rasakan Manfaatnya
Makanan Menyehatkan Penurun Kolesterol
Makanan Yang Di Pantang Untuk Beberapa Jenis Penyakit
Jenis Tanaman Yang Mampu Mencegah Penyakit Tumor Dan Kanker
Cara Atasi Insomnia Dengan Tidak Mengkonsumsi Obat
Turunkan Risiko Asma Pada Anak Dengan Pelihara Anjing
Tips Cara Membangkitkan Gairah Pria Untuk Bercinta
Obat Agar Terhindar Dari Bakteri Dan Virus
Tips Memutihkan Kulit Ala Wanita Jepang Secara Alami
Obat Herbal Untuk Menghilangkan Benjolan Di Leher
- March 23, 2016 at 10:49 PM


text:
1. Choose an expert
2. Select a date
3. Receive confirmation
4. Pay for booking
5. Get coaching
Select your preferred dates for coachings with our experts. After you've saved your selection, we will only show you experts that have at least one matching availability. All dates are shown in your timezone (GMT+2).


text:
In early 1991, an expert group, with a membership drawn from fourteen countries and four international organisations, was formed to examine the economics of the fuel cycle with particular reference to a power station comprising a pressurised water reactor (PWR) commissioning in the year 2000. The expert group finalised its report at the end of 1993. The task of the expert group was to update the OECD/NEA 1983/84 study which was published in 1985. That study defined the levelised lifetime fuel cycle cost using internationally accepted investment appraisal methodology. Costs were derived for fuel cycles based on reprocessing and on long-term spent fuel storage followed by direct disposal. The current study repeats that approach. Use of a 5 per cent reference case discount rate is still considered appropriate in reflecting the consensus of national practices. It also enables direct comparison to be made with previous results. Variations due to the use of different discount rates are also given.
Executive Summary
1. Introduction
2. Methodology and common assumptions
3. The nuclear fuel cycle
4.The costs of the PWR fuel cycle stages
4.1 The front-end of the fuel cycle
5.The calculation of total fuel costs for PWR
6.Sensitivity analyses for PWR fuel costs
7.Comparison between the results of the present
study and
the 1985 study
9. Conclusions
10. References
Download full publication
in Acrobat PDF (1.7 mb)
This publication is out of print and can only be obtained from this website.


text:
Daniel Carrilo is a present-day photographer using the wet plate collodion method. Carrilo was born in Mexico, raised in California, and currently resides in Seattle. I adore his work and am excited to share our recent interview and some of his images with you...
I understand that you are both a printmaker and a photographer. Do you consider yourself more one than the other?
I have been drawing all of my life and took up printmaking seriously in 1993 as a way to get more serious about creating artwork. Photography was my artistic mistress and I found that I would quit working on a plate for a month or two to spend some time in the darkroom. As of lately, I have all but stopped making intaglio prints and the last time I printed anything was about two years ago. It has been official for about a year now. I am, and always have been more of a photographer than a printmaker.
Can you tell us a little bit about your preferred printmaking technique- Mezzotints.
I looked upon my first mezzotint in 1992 and I was blown away by the subtle tones, rich blacks, and long tonal range obtained by this engraving process. I did some research and found this technique to be the most laborious of all the printmaking processes, as it does not involve any acid and is considered a drypoint technique. Most mezzotints tend to be small because of the amount of plate preparation. Simply put, a mezzotint is a copper plate that has been pitted by way of a chisel like tool, until the surface of the plate will hold enough ink so that if the plate was to be printed in that roughened state, would print solid black. The image worked or engraved, from dark to light. A very sharp scraper is used to smooth out areas so the will hold less ink and therefore print lighter. The smoother the area the lighter it will print. The copper plate is pitted with a curved and serrated chisel-like tool that is rocked over the entire plate in one direction. Then it is turned 30 degrees and then rocked again. The plate is finished when the plate has been rocked in at lease six directions. The pitted surface is called the "ground" and this is what is worked to create an image. All the steps from rocking, engraving and printing are incredibly demanding and time consuming. I was working 9 x 12 sized plates and was getting 3 finished plates a year. I still have plates that have never been printed as an edition.
Do you ever mix your printmaking and photography work?
Yes, I tried using photo-polymer film exposed on copper plate and inked and printed on a press but found the image quality very poor. A half-tone screen is exposed onto the polymer first and then the image to give the polymer the tooth to hold ink. These half-tones look too mechanical and I never really warmed up to it. I have never tried solar plates or photo-gravure though.
How did you get into photography?
My older Brother introduced me to photography at about 11 or 12. He brought home a 35mm SLR and I fell in love with the mechanics and engineering. When I took a class some years later, I bought some darkroom equipment and started developing images in my bedroom as a hobby.
Your wet plate collodion portraits are striking. Please tell us a little bit about the process and how you got into making them.
Thank you very much! The chemicals and process are the exact same from the time wet plate was invented in 1850 by Fredrick Scott Archer. This technique made it possible for photographers to create paper prints from positives. If the negative is underexposed then it will read as a positive when held against a dark background. Tintypes are the same thing only shot onto japanned or blackened metal. Basically, a solution of collodion or nitrocellulose, ether, and grain alcohol is salted with iodides or bromides. This solution is poured over a very clean plate of glass and the excess is flowed off into a bottle. As the solvents evaporate the collodion skins up and forms a film. The plate then goes into a bath of silver nitrate. The silver binds with the cellulose and the halogen salts react with the silver to make it light sensitive. After a few minutes the plate is removed from the silver under safelight conditions and put into a holder while still wet with silver nitrate. It is exposed in camera and then developed all while still wet within a few minutes. Development is stopped by washing off the developer and then the plate is fixed in Potassium Cyanide or Sodium Thiosulphate. The plate is washed and then varnished to protect from tarnishing. It is basically an old-time Polaroid but the speed is very slow! I would estimate that the collodion to have an ASA of 1 or .5. With my lights, I typically get
exposures of about 6-10 seconds at f/4.5 for a tight headshot. A head brace is a must have for these long exposures.
About how long does one wet plate take to make?
Before the subject comes in, glass plates are prepared by cleaning and grounding down the sharp edges. When the subject shows up, I sit them down and start playing with the lights. I take one or two test exposures and the subsequent exposures go much more quickly. I say from start to finish, each shot takes about 10-15 minutes. Time really flies and it is not unusual to have the subject in the studio for 3hrs and get 9-10 exposures. Of those 9 I would say that 4 or 5 are "keepers".
What kind of camera are you using to shoot these?
I mainly shoot in the studio and I like to use my 11 x 14 Deardorff Studio Camera on a Century Studio Master Stand. It is such a pleasure to use and it has tilt and swing in the front and back standards, as well as rise and shift on the front. These movements come in handy for head shots and when there are objects of interest other than your subject. I have and old 16 inch Bausch and Lomb f/4.5 tessar and a beautiful 18 inch f/4.5 Taylor-Hobson Cooke portrait triplet. I also have an 8 x 10 Deardorff field camera and I use the 16 lens on that.
What draws you to the antique processes?
The old process just suits my personality. My background in black and white photography, printmaking, and picture framing all led me down this path. I have made a lot of my equipment and this old process requires a bit of ingenuity and problem solving because you can't run down to the local photography store and buy a silver nitrate tank or a portable darkroom box.
What are the challenges of using an antique process like this?
I would say the biggest drawback is the cumbersome nature of the having to take a portable darkroom with you to shoot outside. Also the speed at which you take a photo and the tremendous amount of light necessary to expose a plate. All of these challenges can be overcome but only for those who don't care to know any different. Back in the good ol' days they just set about doing what they could with what they had and they created some of the most incredible images under the most terrible of conditions.
Do you have a favorite photographer?
This may sound horrible but I don't know if I have a favorite photographer. I have seen some great images but I probably couldn't tell you who produced them. I really like the work of Mary Ellen Mark, Bruce Davidson, Avedon, and Karsh is one of my favorites.
Where do you draw inspiration from?
I have to say my wife. She has always been there for me and has really believed in what I was doing.
Where are you shooting and developing your work?
I shoot and live in Seattle. I am currently in the middle of a 3 month residency. I was awarded an empty storefront by the Seattle Storefront project to use as a studio. I recently landed a studio in the Georgetown district of south Seattle. Right now it is just an empty room. I plan on getting that studio set up for making Daguerreotypes- my next adventure!
Tell me about the workshops you offer.
I offer a full day of hands-on wet plate instruction and support afterwards if the photographer decides to continue on their own. Because it is one day only, I focus more on pouring plates, developing and working with the cameras. This is how I learned and this is how I got hooked. I took a one day workshop from Jenny Sampson and it changed my life.
What's next... you mention a book in your video (below)?
I would love to have a book published about the artists portraits. Right now I am busy concentrating on becoming a better photographer. Photography has just become a serious thing for me and I feel like there is so much to learn and lots to improve on. My new obsession is to start making daguerreotypes so the book seems a bit farther away.
Anything else you would like to share?
The beauty of wet plate is that shots can be instantly inspected for lighting and composition and adjusted accordingly. The only requirement for someone who is interested in wet plate is a good work ethic because the process is demanding. Never settle on an image that simply shows the obvious characteristics of wet plate and try to focus on trying to make images that have a good quality of light and pleasing composition. I have many images that were somehow justified just because they were done in wet plate.
Also check out this video, to see what a clear glass ambrotype really looks like.


text:
I was able to install the lower race without issue, but I cannot seem to get the upper one installed. I am installing a new threaded headset on a newly painted bike. There is no new paint blocking the surface. I do not have any professional tools for this installation, just a hammer and a block of wood.
Is there any trick to getting it in there or do I need to have my LBS ream it out?


text:
Thursday, 3 January 2013
R&B Singer Frank Ocean Cited For Pot Possession.
Grammy-nominated R&B singer Frank Ocean is facing a marijuana possession charge after police say he was pulled over on New Year's Eve in California's Eastern Sierra Nevada for driving more than 90 mph in a 65 mph zone.
The Mono County Sheriff's Department says officers stopped Ocean's black BMW at about 4:30 p.m. Dec. 31 as he was heading southbound on U.S. 395.
Sheriff's spokeswoman Jennifer Hansen says a strong odor of marijuana wafted out as a deputy approached the vehicle.
Hansen says the deputy found a small bag of marijuana on the 25-year-old Ocean, whose legal name is Christopher Breaux (broh).
She says the Beverly Hills resident was cited for marijuana possession and released.
Calls and an email message sent to Ocean's representatives Thursday were not immediately returned.....
Subscribe to: Post Comments (Atom)


text:
I have in the last year gotten quite fond of using SpecFlow (which is a .NET port of Cucumber)
But those tests are slower to execute, and more complex to implement, than those just testing on the controller layer.
My tests are full functional tests, i.e. they exercise all layers of the application, all the way down to the database. So the first thing before any scenario is that the database is cleared of data, allowing the test to assume that only data specified in the "Given" block exists.
Then I see example on how to use it, where they test just exercise the model layer.
So what are your experiences with these tools? Which layer of the application do you test?


text:
Styles P Has A Marijuana Problem & Wants To Quit Smoking! "I Really Want To Quit. I Spent Far Too Much F*cking Cash"
Off the "How To Be An MC" Dvd
Please click the "Report" button below if the video on this page is not working properly.
Comments will only be displayed by verified emails. No Spamming or Racism.


text:
Native meat ants to diminish cane toad population
18 February 2010
With cat food as bait, scientists from The University of Sydney's School of Biological Sciences have succeeded in showing that native meat ants can assist in controlling the spread of cane toads.
In March last year Professor Rick Shine and colleagues Georgia Ward-Fear and Greg Brown found encouraging evidence of the deadly effect of native meat ants on young cane toads.
Now they have further proven their thesis by luring ants to cane toads with cat food.
Professor Shine and his colleagues observed ant-toad interactions on the Adelaide River floodplain 60km east of Darwin, Northern Territory, in the Australian wet-dry tropics during last year's dry season.
Ant densities and toad mortalities increased "more than fourfold" with the addition of cat food baits.
"We can look at an interaction that's already happening, meat ants are already killing millions of cane toads," Professor Shine explains. "We're just looking to make it a bit easier for them."
The research, funded by the Australian Research Council and published in the February edition of the Journal of Applied Ecology, reveals that meat ants can be used with low risk of collateral damage to native wildlife. The approach is also logistically feasible, low technology and inexpensive.
Unlike many previous efforts at pest control in Australia, like the cane toad itself, the use of meat ants promises to be "a useful component of a broadly-based ecological approach," says Professor Shine.
"If we understand the vulnerability of the cane toad we can develop a number of combined tactics to combat this deadly invader," he says.
The team observed the effect of native meat ants on cane toad metamorphs (the first stage of the toad's terrestrial development) near bodies of water, and explored the cane toad's vulnerability to the native predator as a potential means of controlling cane toad numbers.
When cat food was introduced as bait, ant numbers grew and cane toad numbers declined more quickly.
"The end result," the study explains, "is that higher ant densities kill more toads, and kill toads of a wider range of body sizes."
The research continues from a study published by the team last year, which revealed an ecological and behavioural 'mismatch' between cane toads and meat ants. While meat ants posed little enduring threat to native frog and toad species, cane toads were found to be poorly-equipped to escape them.
Cane toads are easy targets for meat ants because unlike their native counterparts they do not try to avoid them at great speed. In addition, cane toads are likely to use the ineffective tactic of crypsis, or immobility, instead of more active escape tactics.
The study found 98 per cent of metamorph toads were encountered by meat ants and 84 per cent were attacked within a very brief (two minute) period. Over 50 per cent of attacks were immediately fatal, while 88 per cent of 'escapee' toads died within 24 hours.
It is hoped the technology will form part of a multi-pronged attack on cane toads.
"No single control will be a silver bullet to eradicate the cane toad from the Australian landscape," says Professor Shine.
However, "if we understand the biology of cane toads and their interactions with Australian fauna we'll be in a much better position to control them."
Contact: Media contact: Sarah Stock
Phone: 0419 278 715


text:
Return to India
Recruitment Director, Ian Birbeck is spending 2 months working in the India office this summer. Here's his report:
'I have just spent my first week back in India working with Projects Abroad. It is always a culture shock.
I first visited India in 1988 for three weeks on my gap year. I returned to India to work for Projects Abroad for four months in 1999 in Sivakasi. I returned for a brief trip in 2005. Every time the experience is a shock and surprise. You expect to be more prepared but you forget the way this amazing country works.
The country hits you as you leave the plane with the heat, dust and smells. You then get in a car or a rickshaw and are hit by the crazy driving but without any of the road rage you encounter in the west. The noise of 100 rickshaw driver's horns. The people are so welcoming. The colorful saris, the cheerful greetings from strangers asking "Where are you coming from?" The incomprehensible shakes of the head. The heat of the ground as you take off your shoes to enter the temples.
You enter the restaurant and encounter a vast number of smells and sights. A shrine in the corner, a group of men in earnest discussion, a smiling waiter. What should you order? Eating with the right hand remains a challenge. Idly or dosai, parotha or nan. Too many choices.
The advertising experts have used the phrase "Incredible India!" I think they are right. Come and visit. Nothing will prepare you for it.'


text:
Previous Chapter | Table of Contents | Next Chapter
His Highness Prince Lian
Prince Lian.
Feng Yu Heng looked at Ban Zou, a questioning look appearing in her eyes.
Ban Zou shook his head, expressing that he did not know, but after some more thought, he told her: "Presently, the ruler of Qian Zhou has many enemies seeking to take his position. He only has one sister in eldest princess Kang Yi. The other siblings were born from the same father but different mothers. Put plainly, they were formerly enemies. Every country and every dynasty, the competition between siblings is unavoidable. The situation in Qian Zhou continued for many years and had many fierce battles. The previous Emperor saw over ten sons and grandchildren die during these battles. Including the current emperor, there are no more than five of his sons remaining, and all of them have been conferred titles of lord.
Feng Yu Heng nodded, "If you say it like that, this Prince Lian is a member of Qian Zhou's imperial family and one of the emperor's brothers."
"Should be."
While the two spoke, the girl standing on the carriage spoke once more, asking the bearded man: "You are executing people here and blocking the road rather than celebrating lord Duan Mu's birthday. For what purpose?" Her words were very uncourteous, but the bearded man did not mind in the slightest.
He replied very respectfully: "These are all officials from Da Shun that tried to escape. Lord Duan Mu gave the order to have them all beheaded."
"Beheaded?" The girl frowned, "You plan on beheading this many people?"
The bearded man nodded, saying: "That's right. Lord Duan Mu said that people lacking in resolution would be better off killed than convinced." While saying this, he looked at the surrounding officials and civilians, adding: "These people are the same. If they are of use, they will be kept alive. If not, they will be killed."
The girl shook her head upon hearing this but could not say anything more. She frankly turned and returned inside the carriage. Not long later, she came back out but said to the bearded man: "His Highness Prince Lian said that tomorrow is new year's eve, and the day after that will be new year's day. Today is near the end of the year, and the time is not suited for killing. Moreover, his Highness does not like the sight of blood. That's why you should disperse. Just find a place and lock these people up. When the new year has arrived and his Highness has returned to Qian Zhou, you can do whatever you want to do."
The bearded man was a little hesitant upon hearing then immediately nodded. Even if he had said earlier that lord Duan Mu had ordered it, now that a prince of Qian Zhou had spoken, he did not even think before tossing lord Duan Mu's orders to the back of his mind. If someone was less informed, they might think that he was a general from Qian Zhou.
But this was also good. At the very least, it would mean that there would not be anything too bloody happening. Everyone felt extremely fortunate. The people that had escaped death watched the executioner put aside the blade. Their nerves that had been stretched tight were immediately relaxed, and a majority of them fainted.
The bearded man ordered for them to be taken away. When the plaza was cleared out, he finally asked the servant: "I wonder if his Highness is satisfied?"
The servant nodded, "Just do as you wish. After all, this is a matter for you people in Da Shun. Qian Zhou will not care for it."
The bearded man immediately said: "At this moment, the North has already devoted itself to Qian Zhou. We are now family. Da Shun would be the ones considered outsiders."
The servant giggled, nodding and saying: "That's right, these three northern provinces were originally part of our Qian Zhou's territory before it was stolen away by Da Shun. But do not rush. It will belong to whoever it should belong to. Sooner or later, Qian Zhou will steal this piece of land back."
Just as she said this, a slightly soft voice came from inside the carriage. It was neither masculine nor feminine, but it sounded very pleasant. That voice said: "Zi'er, do not speak nonsense. Since when have you had the right to make decisions in regards to Qian Zhou's matters."
The girl that had been acting arrogantly immediately turned to face the carriage then kneeled, saying: "Your Highness, please pardon this crime. It was this servant that misspoke."
"Un." The voice faintly said: "When we return to Qian Zhou, you will kneel on ice for three days."
"Understood." The servant accepted her punishment without the slightest complaint. After getting up, she said to the bearded man: "We are headed toward lord Duan Mu's Winter Palace. Have them all get out of the way."
The bearded man heard this and quickly arranged for a path to allow the carriage to pass through. The wolf horses slowly began to move once more, passing through the crowd of people.
Feng Yu Heng happened to have been arranged to be in the front row, and the carriage passed directly by her. She could immediately feel the ice-cold air that came from the carriage.
Who knew if it was some psychological effect, but she felt that when the carriage passed by her, it seemed to pause for a moment. It lasted for only a moment before returning to normal. She then heard a gentle voice faintly say: "The northern provinces are too hot. This sort of place being given to Da Shun is also fine. Why bother with taking it back?" A nearly unnoticeable sigh could then be heard.
It was just that there were no emotions in that sigh. Instead, it seemed to carry of a bit of a bantering tone. For him, the northern provinces were nothing more than toys that he did not need, and he did not care about them."
The gong sounded once more, the sound moving the clouds. The feeling of shocking people's hearts came once more, and everyone was frozen once again. It was as though they had become stone puppets.
This time, Feng Yu Heng and Ban Zou were prepared beforehand and were not confused by the sound of the gong, but the sound of the gong was still rather agitating.
She thought to herself that if just one gong could produce this sort of sound when struck, what sort of sound would occur when numerous gongs were struck? If this sort of sound appeared on the battlefield, would Da Shun's soldiers be able to endure it?
While she was thinking, a few moments passed, and everyone was able to recover, a cold sweat appearing on their bodies. Some people began to discuss what sort of person Prince Lian was. There were other people that began to worry for the officials that had been taken away. They did not know when the next execution would be. Of course, what these people were more worried about was themselves. In a place like the northern provinces, life and death were nothing more than just a few thoughts to Duan Mu An Guo. This was too frightening.
The bearded man shouted with a delighted expression: "Did you see that. That is his Highness Prince Lian from Qian Zhou. Aside from the current emperor, his Highness Prince Lian is the most powerful prince. He does not just have command of an army, he also has control of six of Qian Zhou's provinces. For his Highness Prince Lian to have come to the northern provinces this year, it truly is our good fortune!"
Everyone was shocked. These words had made it clear that he already viewed himself as someone from Qian Zhou, and the northern provinces already belonged to Qian Zhou. There was no longer any relation with Da Shun.
"Alright, you can all go back! His Highness Prince Lian is right. The end of the year is indeed not suitable for spilling blood. This general will report to lord Duan Mu. Thinking about it, my lord should also believe this. Disperse, disperse!"
After saying this, he waved his hand then chased after Prince Lian's carriage with his subordinates. Feng Yu Heng followed the crowd and asked Ban Zou: "I know that the three northern provinces has plenty of people with roots in Qian Zhou, but what is the ratio? Are there any people that only have Da Shun's blood flowing through their veins?"
Ban Zou furrowed his brow and thought for a while then shook his head, "It's hard to say. It's most likely that there are none. Of course, that is aside from the Duan Mu family. Apparently, when the ancestral emperor conquered the three provinces, he stationed a group of soldiers up here for long periods of time. Those soldiers also brought their families up and settled them in here. But the number of civilians outnumbered the number of soldiers. One or two generations might be fine, but by the third generation, they began to mingle with the people of Qian Zhou. Like this, even if the later generations had half of their roots in Da Shun, they began to become assimilated. The Duan Mu family is also the same. The third prince's birth mother had half her roots from Qian Zhou and half from Da Shun, and she was a wife that Duan Mu An Guo brought in from Qian Zhou."
Feng Yu Heng revealed a slightly helpless expression. In truth, if she truly investigated this matter to the root, it was Da Shun that had aggressed on the three provinces, which caused the people of Qian Zhou to be divided in two. Qian Zhou wanted to regain the hearts of the North. It was the same reasoning as wanting to recover lost territories in the modern world. Who was right and who was wrong, how could such a thing be easily commented on?
But Da Shun was not in the modern world. In the era when the world had not settled on its borders, society would be balanced between stability and aggression. This was a society that looked up to heroes. Peace was nothing more than an illusion. Conflict was the foundation on which peace was built.
Countless people walked along in the snow, struggling to return. A madam from Da Shun complained: "They actually built a Winter Palace. Are they afraid that people will not know of his ambitions?"
A man to her side covered her mouth and forcefully shouted: "If you don't want to die, shut your mouth!"
That madam's temper flared and immediately pushed the hand away, raising her voice a bit: "What are you afraid of? Didn't that bearded guy already leave? Are you just not letting people speak? Given the current situation, who knows when the executioner's blade will be resting on our necks. I said long ago for you to not come, but you didn't listen. Now, things have gone well. With this having happened, you want to drag me and our daughter to accompany in your grave."
The man could not refute anything, letting out a long sigh. Another official heard what they said and could not help but interject: "Fortunately, you brought along your daughter. If you brought along your son, wouldn't your family line have been broken?"
Another person said: "So what if they were not brought along? With them being kept in Da Shun, they would also die sooner or later. Although we have been forced to stay here, we did come here of our own volition. Moreover, do you know what Duan Mu An Guo will announce? What he will say of us?"
In just a few words, everyone's hearts were chilled.
Feng Yu Heng wanted to ask everyone what this so-called "Winter Palace" place was. At this time, they saw two citizens of Song Zhou standing in front of a steamed bun shop. One of them held a large box of pastries and handed it to the other person, saying: "Once the new year arrives, your family will be sending one into the palace. In the future, if they become favored, your family will also enjoy the benefits. Old friend Wang, when that time comes, don't forget about us."
"Hah! Well said!" The face of the person that received the gift was glowing red, as he replied: "Your family's daughter will also reach that age in a few more years. When that time comes, we will both be blessed!"
Feng Yu Heng was puzzled, "Sent into the palace? Was the emperor still taking in concubines?"
Ban Zou snorted coldly, "Our emperor isn't taking them in. It's the one on this side."
"This side?" She was puzzled, "Qian Zhou's ruler? Why is he coming to Song Zhou to find concubines?"
Ban Zou shook his head, "What ruler of Qian Zhou. It's that Duan Mu An Guo. The so-called Winter Palace is an imperial palace that he had built in Song Zhou. Apparently, he has become known as a king in that Winter Palace. All of the young girls that have reached 13 years of age will be sent into the Winter Palace for him to choose. Those that are not chosen will be let out to marry as they please."
"What?" Feng Yu Heng was extremely shocked, "This is completely different from an emperor selecting an imperial concubine!" Duan Mu An Guo was actually arrogant to this degree?
Just as she was feeling shocked, a girl suddenly rushed out of a shop at the side of the road. While running, she loudly said: "I don't want to enter the palace! Even if you beat me to death, I don't want to go! I don't know anything that you just said. Don't look for me!"


text:
12 years jail for drug dealer who shipped large amounts of heroin into Peterborough
PUBLISHED: 16:42 07 February 2014 | UPDATED: 16:48 07 February 2014
A drug dealer who shipped large amounts of heroin into Peterborough has been jailed for 12 years.
Joseph Fox, 31, was the head of a supply chain which saw the class A drugs being moved to Peterborough from Bradford.
He then organised the drugs to be stashed in a flat in Palmerston Road, Woodston, where they would be pushed out to a network of street dealers.
Detectives raided the flat on August 1, last year and discovered a kilo of heroin with a street value of more than £100,000.
Fox's right hand man, Daniel Blades, 26, was also in the flat and was arrested. Officers searched his home in Meadenvale, Parnwell, and seized cannabis, debt sheets, scales and other drug paraphernalia.
Officers also carried out a warrant at Fox's home address in Century Square. Debt sheets and a number of mobile phones were seized.
Fox and Blades both pleaded guilty to conspiracy to supply class A drugs. Fox was jailed for 12 years at Peterborough Crown Court on Tuesday (February 4) while Blades was locked up for nine-and-a-half years.
A third man, Jason Smith, 32, of London Road, Peterborough, was jailed for five years after pleading guilty to the supply of class A drugs. The court heard he was a street dealer for Fox.
Detective Constable Rebecca Goodey said: "Fox was orchestrating the movement of a huge amount of heroin into Peterborough which was then being passed to street dealers.
"The use and supply of drugs such as heroin fuel other crime.
"Both Fox and Blades were set to make a significant amount of money from their dealings which ultimately would bring misery to the city.
"This case should show how seriously the police and courts take such offending."
If you value what this story gives you, please consider supporting the Wisbech Standard. Click the link in the orange box above for details.


text:
Season Passes
Real Estate
Mtn Cam
Trip Planner Mtn Blog
This Week
Music & Events
Book Online
Elevate your Corporate Retreat, Group Meeting or Special Event by holding it on our Mountaintop!
Planning to host a sales meeting for several hundred or an exclusive retreat for your key executives? A lavish affair or an intimate wedding? Whatever the size or season, make it a memorable event at Wintergreen Resort in the Blue Ridge Mountains. As one of the finest Central Virginia conference centers, Wintergreen Resort boasts an experienced staff and impeccable service. Enjoy endless opportunities for recreation and relaxation as well -- from skiing to championship golf and a world-class Spa.
Discover why our Virginia conference facility has been a favorite location for corporate, association, government, and social events for more than 30 years.
At Wintergreen Resort, we have 40,000 spectacular square feet of indoor and outdoor meeting space and can accommodate up to 800 guests. We have 18 meeting rooms and spaces with flexible configurations.


text:
Three Days Grace – Life Starts Now (2009)
With motifs of alienation, anger, animosity, and vengeance, Life Starts Now is a demanding album designed to help unleash the pain within. This is nothing new for Three Days Grace, whose two previous albums (Three Days Grace and One-X) all deliver similar messages of living a hard life and not being happy about it. While not much has changed in the way of songs for album number three, sometimes staying the same is a good thing.
Life Starts Now picks up right where their previous album left off. Heavy, grunge metal guitars dominate the record, setting the tone and pace for what's to come. Bitter Taste kicks off the anger, a song about putting up with too much for too long and not wanting to deal with it anymore. It's a tune of ultimate revenge, erasing the bitter taste from life (presumably a girl and a relationship that really soured). Bitter Taste starts the album and let's everyone know what's to come.
Adam Gontier's vocals are still rough and harsh, providing the dark edge to the emo-induced songs on Life Starts Now. His scratchy throat, reminiscent of Papa Roach's Jacoby Shaddix, bring the power to allow the listener feel the pain. The darkness surrounding his vocal chords is clear on all of the songs and help to reinforce the structures of the tracks. Life isn't all peaches and cream, and we'd all do well to remember that. Three Days Grace is doing their best to remind us.
One song of note is World So Cold which sounds like a Hall & Oates song that was reformed and reshaped into a heavy, dark, rock track. If slowed down and sung in a higher key, Daryl Hall would be able to take this track and make it a monster hit for the power pop duo. It's most noticeable in the chorus and makes me wonder if Three Days Grace listened to Hall & Oates when they were younger.
Songs like Break and The Good Life revisit the subject matter of doing whatever is necessary to overcome the darkness that is locked inside of everyone's individual world. The necessity to break away and rise above from the crap that life throws at us all is well documented and accounted for. If you're not happy with what you have and where you are in life, you need to break away and rise above with the inner strength that each of us possess.
While not breaking any new ground musically or lyrically, Three Days Grace have still delivered a solid rock record in Life Starts Now. If you're a fan of their previous albums, then you're going to love this one. If you're not a fan, then you might want to stay away from Life Starts Now.
Rating: Out of 10
Vodpod videos no longer available.
Track Listing:
- Bitter Taste
- Break
- World So Cold
- Lost In You
- The Good Life
- No More
- Last To Know
- Someone Who Cares
- Bully
- Without You
- Goin' Down
- Life Starts Now
Three Days Grace is:
Adam Gontier – Lead Vocals/Guitar
Neil Sanderson – Drums/Piano/Vocals
Brad Waist – bass
Barry Stock – Guitar


text:
The Society was formed in 1930 and brings together anyone who cares about this historic building. The aim of The Friends is to assist the PCC in caring for and maintaining the fabric of the Minster. Over the past few years The Friends have paid for the new floor in the Song Room, new pew covers in the North and South Aisles, and work on the South Porch doors to replace the door opening mechanism. We have also given a donation towards the work to replace the floor area at the front of the Nave. All this could not have been achieved without donations and legacies from generous benefactors and supplemented by fundraising from social events.
Donations are always welcome.
Should you wish to make a donation, cheques can be made payable to The Friends of Halifax Minster.
News 2017
Friends Visit
Afternoon Tea
The Friends will be having Afternoon Tea in the Minster on Sunday 24th September 2.30pm – 4pm followed by Choral Evensong. This is an opportunity to visit the Minster with friends, raise some money, and hear the Minster choir perform.
The Annual General Meeting of The Friends of Halifax Minster will be held after the morning service on Sunday 1st October. After the Service is a bring and share lunch followed by the meeting. Everything will be concluded well before the annual RSPCA Service which begins at 2.30pm.