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Even the brigade was a better final 3 then these so called "exterminators" Who else do you think was a better final or who do you think could of been a dream final 3 in any season....Post your thoughts below
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Pagenaud wins 2nd race of Houston doubleheader
HOUSTON (AP) Not everything was bigger in Texas on a hot and humid weekend in which a pair of small IndyCar teams claimed the commemorative cowboy boots from the Grand Prix of Houston.
Sam Schmidt's drivers went 1-2 on Sunday for the first time in team history as Simon Pagenaud grabbed the win and led rookie teammate Mikhail Aleshin to the checkered flag. Pagenaud used the win, his second of the season, to climb back into the championship race.
He came to Houston trailing Will Power by 91 points, and cut it to 59 after the two races.
"It's fantastic for the race team and the entire organization," said Pagenaud, who admitted after the race to feeling "a little faint" from temperatures that soared into the 90s. "The whole team has elevated to top team level."
Aleshin, the first Russian to compete in IndyCar, was a career-best second for his first podium and said a tire problem nearly prevented him from making it to the finish.
"It's definitely an amazing day for the team," he said. "We are one of the fastest cars on the track and I think we did an amazing job today. The whole team did an amazing job."
Third went to rookie Jack Hawksworth, his first career podium. It capped a breakthrough weekend for the British driver, who finished a career-best sixth Saturday.
"It's been rough this year, we've been fast sometimes and just not quite made it happen," said Hawksworth. "We've not quite put it together and today we did."
A day earlier, Dale Coyne Racing scored its first win of the year with rookie Carlos Huertas. The rookie led a Colombian sweep of the rain-soaked podium alongside countrymen Juan Pablo Montoya and rookie Carlos Munoz.
It was a race Pagenaud thought he should have won.
He spent the previous week training in California for the heat and humidity, and won the pole for the first race of the doubleheader. His race was ruined, though, first by a spin and then when he was collected in Scott Dixon's crash. He finished 16th in the first race.
"I was so disappointed Saturday because we had such a fast car this weekend," he said.
Power, the points leader, rallied from another poor qualifying effort to put himself in position for a third-place finish. But he failed to make it to the finish line when a part broke on his car two laps from the finish. Pagenaud, Aleshin and Power had peeled away from the pack, leaving Hawksworth behind for a spirited battle to hold on for fourth-place.
Then Power went off course and fell to 11th. Still, he entered the weekend with a 39 point lead in the standings and that was unchanged.
Hoping to close ground on Power this weekend was Team Penske teammate Helio Castroneves, who was ninth Saturday but started from the pole on Sunday looking for a win. Instead, he was chasing Pagenaud from second for the lead early in the race when he drove into Sebastien Bourdais.
Castroneves had been setting up his pass of Pagenaud and apparently didn't see Bourdais when he suddenly tried to cut into the same lane as Bourdais. Castroneves wound up 21st.
"I was attacking and trying to pass Pagenaud, and I had no idea (Bourdais) was there," Castroneves said. "When I am attacking, I can't have my eyes on the back. It's absolutely ridiculous why the guy had to put the car over there. It's the rules of traffic, when a guy hits a guy in the back, it's his fault. I am upset, yes, because we had a great car and it's just a shame to have drivers like that who do not use common sense."
The contact broke Bourdais' front wing while he was running third, caused him to fall through the field, but he rallied to finish fifth, behind Charlie Kimball, despite the damage. It marked consecutive top-five finishes for the first time this season for Bourdais.
"He changed lanes and we made pretty heavy contact," Bourdais said of Castroneves' move. "That busted my front wing pretty good. After that it was a tough fight. I had to be really creative to compensate for the balance of the car."
Huertas, winner Saturday, and Munoz, who finished third on Saturday, both failed to finish on Sunday and were the first two cars out.
It was a topsy-turvy weekend like that in which Munoz was the only driver from the big three teams – Andretti Autosport, Chip Ganassi Racing and Team Penske – to earn a podium.

subset: commoncrawl


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Mr. Speaker, my question will indeed be brief.
The Bloc Québécois would have us believe that this is a transfer of funds directly to Toronto. I would like to know if my hon. colleague believes instead that this would give Quebec businesses access to funds to which they would not have had access before.


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Panasonic's Iris Recognition Reader
Panasonic Security Systems' BM-ET330 Iris Recognition Reader features a double speed processor, and an RS485 interface. Additional language is available on the reader that supports audio prompts and a built-in real-time clock for time and attendance applications.
For more information, call Panasonic at 866-726-2288 or visit www.panasonic.com/cctv.
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Small Group Personal Training
Although the concept of group exercise has been around for many decades, applying this concept to a personal training format is relatively new. One of the key principals that spurred this concept was cross-training. This phenomenon — which uses various modes, frequencies and intensities to develop a more balanced fitness program while avoiding overtraining and stagnation — became a major development to help integrate personal training programs into a group exercise setting.
Recent studies have determined that resistance and other anaerobic training can be more beneficial when combined with aerobic training than solely training with aerobics. This helped lend support to the current personal training and group personal training market.
Introducing small group personal training for optimal function takes some planning. Before starting, you need to develop a consensus with your members to determine a need and demand for such a class. A sign-up sheet is an easy way to do this. In addition, the proper space allocation must be determined, along with the maximum number of participants for optimal safety.
Before you get your class up and running, the management and class instructors should walk through the components of the class to eliminate any flaws or safety concerns. When the equipment is added, make sure that there is enough space surrounding it for exercise safety and transitions.
Individualizing the class for a specific training purpose is also helpful. Some of these classes might include sports-specific training, special populations, weight loss, muscle toning or overall fitness conditioning. This will help target audiences with specific goals similar to the goals of one-on-one training.
Some classes you may want to offer include circuit training with dumbbells and tubing using PHA method; dynamic stability with a Swiss ball for proprioception and posture; plyometrics drills for racquet sports; and martial arts drills utilizing circuit format.
The class may also be tailored to various levels such as beginning, intermediate or advanced, provided there is this type of audience available. No matter what level, however, you should always have participants take a medical/orthopedic screening.
Many of the larger facilities may incorporate combination classes. It's important to remember that there is an inverse relationship between more exercise combinations and less training specificity, which can easily escape the realm of personalized instruction.
Examples of combination group exercise classes include:
Cardio circuit with dumbbells and intervals
Aerobic cross-training with plyos and tubing
Medicine balls with sports drills and intervals
Body Bar training with martial arts and boot camp intervals
One of the keys to successful group personal training is the instructor. You want someone who is outgoing and can interact with each participant for a given time to help establish the personal training concept without making the other participants feel left out. The instructor should also be certified and preferably specialized in the type of instruction specific to the class.
Your facility can have a successful small group personal training program provided it is well planned and promoted by utilizing proper space allocation and equipment application. Most importantly, the program instructors chosen must be knowledgeable, personable and compassionate about enhancing the members' quality of life.
Mark Laponte has been a professional athletic trainer for 17 years and holds seven national certifications. His expertise is developing fitness programs for special populations and post-rehab clients. He is also the educational provider for the Sporting Club at the Aventine in San Diego. He can be contacted at (858) 395-2657.
Resistance Training Benefits
Group Personal Training Benefits
Group personal training provides:


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Students will test various materials to determine if any can shield their "magnetometer" (compass) from an external magnetic field using their own experimental design. If no suitable material is available, they will devise another method to protect... (View More) their instrument. Includes background science for the teacher, worksheets, adaptations and extensions. Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) are also identified. (View Less)
Materials Cost: $10 - $20 per group of students
This afterschool curriculum includes six lessons plus supplementary materials (e.g., videos, PowerPoint presentations, and images) that explore how light from the electromagnetic spectrum is used as a tool for learning about the Sun. The curriculum... (View More) is designed to be flexible to meet the needs of afterschool programs and includes recommendations for partial implementation based on time constraints. It was specifically designed to engage girls in science. (View Less)
This is the first module in the Solar Dynamic Observatory (SDO) Project Suite curriculum. Activities are self-directed by students or student teams using online videos and data from the SDO satellite to explore, research and build knowledge about... (View More) features of the Sun. Students build vocabulary, apply or demonstrate learning through real world connections, and creating resources to use in their investigations. Each activity comes with both a teacher and student guide with sequential instructions and embedded links to the needed videos and internet resources. Activity 1A: Structure of the Earth's Star takes students through the features and function of the Sun's structures using online videos, completing a "Sun Primer" data sheet using information from the videos, and creating a 3D origami model of the Sun. Students use a KWL chart to track what they have learned. Activity 1B: Observing the Sun has students capture real solar images from SDO data to find and record sunspots and track their movement across the surface of the Sun. Activity 1C has students create a pin-hole camera to use in calculating the actual diameter of the Sun, and then calculate scales to create a Earth-Sun scale model. Students reflect on their learning and results at the end of the module. An internet connection and access to computers are needed to complete this module. See related and supplementary resources for link to full curriculum. The appendix includes an alignment to the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS). (View Less)
Materials Cost: $1 - $5
Students use a dipole magnet and compass to model and map Earth's magnetic field. They then induce a magnetic field to represent a Ring Current in order to observe the response to a fluctuating electric current caused by a solar storm. The lesson... (View More) includes background information, procedures, worksheets, answer keys and graphics. Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) are listed. (View Less)
Materials Cost: $10 - $20 per group of students
This is an activity about electromagnetism and the Sun. First, learners will do a KWL activity using six vocabulary words. Next, they will build an electromagnet and investigate how it works. Finally, learners will relate the workings of their... (View More) electromagnet to a Solar Dynamics Observatory magnetogram image of the Sun. Per group of learners, this activity requires materials such as a length of insulated wire, alligator clips, a 2-D-battery holder, two D-batteries, and a nail. (View Less)
In this lesson students investigate the effects of black carbon on arctic warming and are introduced to a mechanism of arctic warming that is not directly dependent on greenhouse gases in the atmosphere: black carbon deposition on Arctic snow and... (View More) ice. It can also be used to introduce the concept of albedo. Prerequisite knowledge: students understand the concepts of absorption and reflection of light energy. This lesson is designed to be used with either an Earth/environmental science or chemistry curriculum. It may also be used as an enrichment activity in physics or physical science during a unit on energy. Includes suggested modifications for students with special needs and low technology option. Requires advance preparation, including freezing ice samples overnight. (View Less)
Materials Cost: $10 - $20 per group of students
This is a lesson about the solar wind, Earth's magnetosphere, and the Moon. Participants will work in groups of two or three to build a model of the Sun-Earth-Moon system. They will use the model to demonstrate that the Earth is protected from... (View More) particles streaming out of the Sun, called the solar wind, by a magnetic shield called the magnetosphere, and that the Moon is periodically protected from these particles as it moves in its orbit around the Earth. Participants will also learn that the NASA ARTEMIS mission is a pair of satellites orbiting the Moon that measure the intensity of solar particles streaming from the Sun. (View Less)
The 9-session NASA Family Science Night program emables middle school children and their families to discover the wide variety of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics being performed at NASA and in everyday life. Family Science Night... (View More) programs explore various themes on the Sun, the Moon, the Stars, and the Universe through fun, hands-on activities, including at-home experiments. Instructions for obtaining the facilitator's guide are available on the Family Science Night site. (View Less)
This is an activity about sunlight as an energy source. Learners will create a plant box and observe that a plant will grow toward the Sun, its primary source of energy. This hands-on activity is an additional lesson as part of the book, The Day... (View More) Joshua Jumped Too Much. (View Less)
Materials Cost: $1 - $5 per group of students
This is an activity about the states of matter. Learners will participate in a demonstration to reintroduce them to three states of matter: solid, liquid, and gas. The demonstration also introduces them to a fourth state of matter, plasma, through... (View More) investigation of the properties of volume and shape as they relate to common solids, liquids, and gases, and to the mystery matter later identified at the end as plasma. The demonstration also covers plasma's connection to the Sun and connections to science related to the Interstellar Boundary Explorer, or IBEX, spacecraft. This activity complements other IBEX informal education materials. The demonstration requires use of a small plasma ball and, ideally, a slightly darkened room so that the plasma ball can be more easily seen. An instructional video explaining how to facilitate this activity is available: http://bit.ly/125ZW5k. (View Less)
Materials Cost: Over $20


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For Chief Ackley, there's plenty of time
New London - City records indicate Police Chief Margaret Ackley has earned more than $100,000 in paid time off in less than two years, a number that exceeds the salary she was paid during her regular work hours. Documents contained in a Freedom of Information request received by The Day show that between Sept. 2, 2012, and Aug. 31, 2014, Ackley was paid for the equivalent of 1,814.25 hours for a total of $101,605. Those hours came from a mix of compensatory time, sick leave, injury time, vacation and other paid time off. Ackley was paid $36,678 in comp time alone, or the equivalent of 689 hours, records show.
The total number does not include a category marked "w/comp taxes - fire/police" for which she was paid an additional $18,806, records show without explanation.
During the same time period, Ackley's regular paid hours totaled 1,731.75 for a total of $92,187 in payments.
Documents released by the city coincided with the announcement Thursday that Mayor Daryl Justin Finizio had suspended Ackley until an investigation could be completed into a host of allegations that include claims she interfered with union negotiations, misrepresented financial information about the department and targeted union officials for discipline. There were no claims that her time off had anything to do with the decision to suspend her. While she is on paid suspension, Ackley is not using any of her remaining comp or vacation time.
Finizio declined to comment Friday.
Ackley's suspension was announced one day after Ackley, as part of a pending lawsuit against Finizio and the city, filed a request for an injunction against Finizio, claiming the mayor had essentially marginalized her and stripped her of police powers. Her attorney, Leon Rosenblatt, was not immediately available to comment Friday but has said in the past that Ackley had earned all of her time and was using compensatory time rather than losing it.
Controversy surrounding comp time in the city dates back to at least 2011 when Ackley, in her lawsuit, claims she announced her intention to retire but was requested by Finizio to stay on until Dec. 31, 2015. Part of the agreement to stay on, according to Ackley's suit, was a signed contract that would pay her a $110,725 salary with an agreement that she retain 2,000 hours of comp time.
The agreement, later rejected by the City Council, stated she would be paid as wages the financial equivalent of 1,196 of work hours at her regular rate of pay. Ackley claims that in February 2013 the city breached the contract by reneging on the promise to pay the remainder of her 1,196 hours of wages.
Finizio replaced comp time with flex time in August 2012 and ordered that all comp time be used before the end of that fiscal year.
Ackley was issued an extension to use her accumulated comp time by former Chief Administrator Jane Glover. The extension was granted because of the significant amount of time Ackley was out or working light duty after she was injured in an October 2012 incident in which she was hit on the head by a window that blew open during Superstorm Sandy. A memo from Glover indicates Ackley had 1,584.5 hours of comp time to be used before July 1, 2014. Ackley had used more than 300 hours of the time off, sick and comp time in the first three months of this year, records show. At the time she still had more than 1,000 hours of comp time left.
Finizio, in an April 24 memo released Thursday, granted Ackley until the end of the year to take the remainder of her time.
With Ackley now on paid leave, the issue of comp time may be moot, and it is unclear how much time she has left or plans to take off. But an email from Ackley to Finizio dated June 13, 2014, gives some indication. The email shows she planned to take off July 13-31, Aug. 1-15, Sept. 17-30 and Dec. 24-31.
"I will be using my comp time that is above the 1,012 hours that still needs to be paid out to me in my income," according to Ackley's email. "During any of the scheduled time off, I will be available should a situation warrant my being called in."
"Duly noted," Finizio responded.
New London City Council denies Finizio's request for $92,500 for Ackley probe
New London official, not ex-FBI director, will lead probe of Chief Ackley
McConnell courting Pompeo to run for open Senate seat in Kansas
Trump team weighs surprise tariff cut in hopes of securing China trade deal
Local roundup: New London beats Fitch on halfcourt shot at buzzer
T.J. Horner brings toughness from the football field to the basketball court
Samaritan helps police recover purse snatched from Day reporter in New London


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Top 10 Baltimore crab decks
Traditionally, Baltimoreans don't have their first crab feast until Memorial Day, when they can move the meal outside. The days are longer, and the crabs are fatter. Get to know our favorite Baltimore-area crab decks and patios. Because crabs just taste better when you're sitting outside.
Copyright © 2019, The Baltimore Sun, a Baltimore Sun Media Group publication | Place an Ad


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Tell us how StartUp Health got started five years ago.
In June 2011, StartUp Health launched at Health Datapalooza in Washington, D.C., and had the opportunity to meet in the Oval Office with President Obama and Vice President Biden to share the vision of organizing and investing in a global army of thousands of entrepreneurs passionate about reinventing the future of health. StartUp Health is now five years into its 25-year mission to improve the health and wellness of everyone in the world.
What was it like to meet President Obama and Vice President Biden?
In a word, inspiring. It's such an honor to have the opportunity to meet and try to learn from leaders who have dedicated their lives to service. Being in the Oval Office was certainly surreal, and I remember it as a series of hundreds of impactful moments stitched together into one amazing experience.
What are you most proud of in terms of the accomplishments of StartUp Health?
The other day I was talking with the co-founder of a StartUp Health portfolio company, and he shared a story about how their solution had just saved two infant babies lives. Every day I think how grateful I am to have the opportunity to be surrounded by people like this, and to get to spend my time supporting the Health Transformers who are reinventing the future of health.
The most rewarding part of StartUp Health is the tangible impact being made each day and the progress toward our goal of improving the wellbeing of billions of people around the world. I'm most proud that I get to be part of this mission, and to be surrounded by other passionate entrepreneurs and innovators who are spending their lives creating solutions for our future.
Where do you see health innovation in the next five years?
Expect to see 20 years of progress in the next five years as the pace of health innovation accelerates. We're in a unique era of rapid innovation in healthcare, driven by seismic converging conditions causing dramatic shifts within the industry, spurring a wave of technological advancement, changing business models and, ultimately, creating windows of opportunity driving new entrants (including startups and large companies from outside of traditional healthcare) to the market.
Ultimately, we will start to see a new wave of innovation occur over the coming five years that builds off of the infrastructure and advancements of the past 20 years. We will start to see the impact with consumers in the United States and around the world in meaningful ways that ultimately impact people's wellbeing.
What are you most passionate about outside of work?
I don't really create a distinction between work and life in many ways, because so much of what I do every day doesn't seem like work. I'm fortunate to have the opportunity to work with my wife, who is also part of the StartUp Health mission, and I also make it a point to bring my young son on most of my business trips with me. We make it one great journey and adventure together. I would say I'm most passionate about enjoying time with my family, and spending time learning and adventuring with them, and I try to bring that energy back to my work each day.


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WowCity Kota Kinabalu is your complete city guide to shopping, dining, travel, and entertainment in Kota Kinabalu. Read and write business reviews, submit articles, print coupons, and watch videos. There's always something new in Kota Kinabalu. Become a WowBuddy to share local information.
Own a business in Kota Kinabalu?
Whether you have an established business in Kota Kinabalu or just starting, with or without a website, we'll be glad to be part of your business marketing solution. Our unique and proven internet marketing services can help promote your business to your local market and beyond.
Become a Wow Business today!


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Course Section Information
01/23/2013 - 03/05/2013
Price: $295.00
Max. Class Size: 30
Available Seats: 5
Offered by PBS National
- Enrollment is not open.
Building Critical Thinking Skills for Online Research
- Course Section Description:
Put 21st century skills into practice as you help students get the most from their online research by encouraging their critical-thinking and information literacy skills. Explore different information search process models and strengthen your own online research skills. Create an Internet-based model for teaching your students where to find information, how to evaluate it, and how to apply it to their tasks.
Note: This is a facilitated course. Learners submit coursework and participate in asynchronous discussions throughout the course term, and receive graded feedback.
For assignments and evaluation details, see the full Syllabus.
The number of hours identified for each course reflects time spent online, but does not reflect the total time spent completing offline coursework and assignments. All learners are different and you will likely spend double the indicated number of hours completing all coursework depending on your learning style and work habits.
- Graduate Credit Information:
- Graduate credit may be obtained from the provider(s) listed below, for an additional fee after the course begins.
- Adams State University - 2.0 credits - pricing
- Madonna University - 2.0 credits - pricing
- University of Central Missouri - 2.0 credits - pricing
- James Madison University - 2.0 credits - pricing
- Central Michigan University - 2.0 credits - pricing
- Sierra Nevada College - 2.0 credits - pricing
- Morningside College - 2.0 credits - pricing
- Facilitator:
- Becky Maguire
- Subject Area:
- Instructional Technology, Instructional Strategies
- Grade Level:
- Kindergarten-12th
- Hours:
- 30.0


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Artwork drawn by Karl, who draws a lot
Our 3rd Annual Holiday Party is next week at Elliott Bay Bicycles and we hope you can join us. We'll have beer, snacks, Mahan hand-making Suffer Faces shirts like this,
a Biologic Trunk Sale, and deals on our gear.
- 3rd Annual Holiday Party
- Wednesday, December 7 at 6:30pm, until the keg is dry and the food gone.
- Elliott Bay Bicycles
RSVP on Facebook.


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Humane Wildlife Removal Ann Arbor
Welcome to Michigan Wildlife Removal services. A premier animal control and wildlife removal company. Our service areas are Oakland County, Macomb County and Wayne County.
When dealing with wildlife issues it is important to consult with animal control specialists in order to establish the best overall solution to your animal removal conflict. A trained wildlife removal professional can inspect the property and give a solution to the problem.
Our services include:
We do Bat Removal in Detroit, MI.
Bat removal and bat colony exclusion from attic, chimney and eaves. Bats seek safe habitat to establish their colony and an attic space makes a great place to do just that. Bat exclusion by One Way Bat Doors are the only safe and humane way to allow bats to leave the property , but not allow access back in. Often the insulation in the attic will need to be removed due to contamination (Bat guano and Bat Urine). A bat specialist can give all options after initial inspection.
We do Raccoon Removal in Detroit, MI.
Raccoons in the attic removal by trapping experts and attic clean up. A female raccoon have offspring either in the spring or early winter depending on the female raccoon's gestation cycle or sometimes a male raccoon will kill the baby raccoons in order to push the female into a new gestation cycle to mate with her.
When a raccoon decides to take up residence in an attic space it becomes a dangerous situation. A mother raccoon can be extremely aggressive when she has young raccoons. Raccoons in the attic will deficate(poop or pee) in spots in the attic insulation and once the areas is saturated they move to a new area in the attic insulation. once the raccoon is trapped and removed the insulation will need to be removed and the attic disinfected due to dangerous health issues. Always use a wildlife specialist for raccoon removal.
We do Squirrel Removal in Detroit, MI.
Squirrels in the attic cause electrical wiring damage wich can lead to electrical fires in the attic. Squirrels in the attic can make it difficult to sleep due to the noises they make in the attic, crawlspace and walls. Squirrels are rodents and like all rodent are prone to chew on anything they can get their teeth on this includes wiring, drywall, wood soffits and wood fascia.
The only true way to rid your house or office of squirrels is by trapping the squirrel and having a squirrel exclusion done. A trained wildlife expert can handle both the trapping and exclusion of the conflict animals.
Noises in the attic in Detroit, MI.
There are a few animal that tend to make noises at night in your attic and they are bats, racoons, squirrels, opossums, rats, mice and birds. An attic space can make a good place to find shelter and raise families.
Our Service areas include Detroit MI, Dearborn MI, Livonia MI, Westland MI, Wayne MI, Canton Twp MI, Dearborn Heights MI, Taylor MI, Plymouth MI, Redford MI, Northville MI, Romulus MI, Allen Park MI, Southgate MI, Inkster MI, Lincoln MI, Wyandotte MI, Garden City MI, Hamtramck MI, Belleville MI, Gross Pointe Park MI, Trent MI, Melvindale MI, Highland Park MI, Gross IIle Twp MI, Plymouth Twp MI, Harper Woods MI, Brownstown Twp MI, Flat Rock MI, Gross Pointe Park MI, Gross Pointe Woods MI, Ecorse MI, Gross Point Farms MI, Woodhaven MI, Riverview MI, Huron Charter Twp MI, Van Buren Twp MI, Gibraltar MI, New Boston MI, Gross Pointe Shores MI, Rockwood MI, River Rouge MI, Northville Twp MI, Sumner Twp MI and Gross Point Twp MI.


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What does the bible say about internet dating
Should a Christian use a dating service to find a spouse?
Free membership for online dating australian sites Free only interracial dating sites in south africa
Question: "Should a Christian use a Christian dating service to find a spouse?"
Answer: The Bible doesn't talk about Christian dating services. In fact it doesn't even tell us how to "date" or "court," whichever we call the process we use to get to know a potential mate. In the Bible times, these did not exist in the same form that we see them today. Back then, families helped young women and men meet and become engaged and often chose their children's mates for them. Today, singles are more on their own to find a mate. Some singles don't bother to look for a spouse, believing God will bring the person to them, while others are forever on a feverish search for one, fearing they may miss him or her. There should be a balance, as we remember that God is perfectly loving (Ephesians 3:18; 1 John 3:16-18) and perfectly sovereign over every situation, desire and need (Psalm 109:21; Romans 8:38-39). Unless we are rebelling against God, we can be sure that He is not punishing us through our singleness and that He is very likely bringing the right man or woman our way…eventually! God uses our choices, other people, and sometimes even modern technology, to bring about marriages.
Before a Christian single considers any of the "newer" methods of finding a spouse like using a Christian dating service, it's helpful to consider whether we may be engaging in any self-defeating behavior. Is it possible we are being too picky, looking for the fairy-tale prince or princess, and by doing so, limiting the possibilities of what God may know is best for us and which we have not yet considered? Are we not being picky enough, forgetting that God calls all Christians to marry only other Christians (2 Corinthians 6:14), or are we considering someone who is stuck in a serious, life-altering sin that could endanger the marriage? A Christian man should take the lead in relationships and making sure their relationship glorifies Christ in all things. A Christian woman should let the man take the initiative as the leader God made him to be. And, finally, as believers, we should be able to stand on our own two feet, relying on the Lord to fulfill us rather than feeling a need to be married in order to be whole. Once we have these common struggles sorted out, we can begin to pursue a woman, or be pursued by a man, with an eye towards marriage.
As in all decisions, we should ask God to direct us clearly. It can be difficult to meet single Christian men and women, especially if most of our friends have already married. We can put ourselves in a position to meet other Christians by looking for a church singles group. We may want to volunteer for a cause we care about or join other groups, being sure that we are doing it because we enjoy it, not just because we want to meet as many potential mates as possible. Some people prefer to meet their spouse through friends, family, or in a chance meeting out in the world, and many do just that. But others believe they are limited in the people they meet because of their profession, the size of their city, or the nature of their activities. For these people, it may be wise to consider other methods. Some of the modern methods of finding a mate include internet or online dating, professional matchmaking services, and speed dating. Each has its pros and cons, and none is right for everyone. Before beginning any of these methods, we should begin in prayer, asking God whether it is the step He wants us to take.
Internet dating is currently the most popular alternative way to meet singles. There are Christian dating services, including Kyle massey who is he dating. There are secular dating websites that allow you to limit your search to Christians, and they (like the Christian sites) often let you specify the denomination you are looking for as well. Some of the most popular websites are Laws against dating minors in california, Lenders consolidating federal student loans calculator, and Mandating corporate social responsibility emerging trends in nigeria. (Please note that GotQuestions Ministries does not personally endorse any particular secular or Christian dating service or site.) eHarmony is unique in that it uses an extensive personality test to provide customized matches to each person, though each user must only choose from the matches given to him or her—they cannot communicate with anyone they choose. Most of the other sites (Christian and secular) provide various ways that men and women can quickly assess compatibility before beginning any form of communication. Most sites charge a monthly or yearly fee, ranging from a few dollars to twenty or thirty dollars a month. eHarmony requires that members proceed through several "steps" of communication before they are allowed to e-mail and exchange phone numbers. The other sites offer quicker communication. While it is easy to meet new people on all of the websites, anyone trying out internet dating must be very careful.
One major downfall of internet dating is that you can never be sure who is being honest and who is pretending to be someone they're not. The result of a deception can be humorous or even deadly. It's a good idea to never answer any communication from someone from another country, unless you are able to conduct an extensive background check on him or her. Some of these people are trying to con the men and women they meet. Always begin by meeting the person in a public place—never allow them to drive you anywhere or take you somewhere where you will be alone. It is wise to plan a double date, so that a close friend can offer his or her opinion on this (let's face it) complete stranger. Listen to your instincts and get away fast if you ever feel you are in any danger. Warnings aside, though, many happy Christian marriages have come out of internet dating.
Professional matchmaking services are usually safer than internet dating, but are less popular, and don't always have a very large pool of people to choose from. They can also be more expensive, usually involve more extensive applications, and require some type of background check. Speed dating is where singles circulate systematically through a room of tables in order to assess a potential date in only a few minutes per rotation. At the end of the night, they turn in a card that indicates whom they would be willing to be matched up with. The couples who have mutual interest will receive each other's contact information. Professional matchmaking and speed dating can be just as dangerous as internet dating, but, if done safely and wisely, can potentially lead to a successful Christian marriage.
In all of the choices we make, though, it's crucial to remember that it is God—not us—who brings us together with a spouse. As simple as it may sound, we shouldn't have to work to find our spouse; we should be living out our lives with any desires for a spouse on the back burner and our desires for knowing God at the forefront of our hearts. Men do need to take the initiative in a relationship and pursue the woman, but God is still the one who brings the couple together. Seek God and He will fulfill (or change) your desires (Psalm 103:5; Romans 12:2) in His perfect way and His perfect time (Romans 5:6; Romans 8:26-27). Would we want it any other way? Look at the story of Isaac and Rebekah and how God brought them together (Genesis 24). It was sovereignly planned and controlled by God. The marriage of two people is nothing short of a miracle, but, then again, the same could be said of our birth and of even our living to see the next day. God holds our every moment in His hands (Psalm 31:15), and He will not let us slip through the cracks of His gentle fingers. He cradles our lives and our hearts in His hands, and He will not forget His children.
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Katrien Van Hecke
Katrien Van Hecke Women's Chosa Zenzero Silk Dress from SS15 in Red
Size: 38-FR
- 38-FR Notify me
- Cropped sleeved dress
- Crafted from pure silk in a soft and light weave
- Dyed using red Sandalwood, manually dyed to create a warm and vivid red colour
- > Features a speckled dye finish
- Three quarter length sleeves
- Shallow V-neck with oversized neck detail
- Front seam
- Calf length
- Oversized and relaxed fit
- Pull on dress
- Natural and light aesthetic
- Model wears size 40
- Made in Belgium
Katrien Van Hecke is an emerging womenswear designer hailing from Antwerp, Belgium. Launching her brand in 2010 in Paris her brand has gone on to gain significant interest thanks to her use of fabrication and modern silhouettes. With a strong focus on artisanal luxury wear, pieces are crafted from fine silks and wools, hand dyed using sustainable natural resources. Producing her collections in Belgium, Van Hecke only uses high quality materials that prove their sustainability teamed with hand dying processes utilising natural colourants such as henna, sandalwood and eucalyptus. Each garment is produced as an individual object; this results in considered imperfections and aspect variations that become distinct characteristics. Collections are a reinterpretation of age-old techniques that are brought into the 21st century by modern technology and techniques.
In this collection Van Hecke worked with blocks of wood to develop her prints using 'primitive printing', which is a wood stamp process. Using natural dyes in warm colours she created a vibrant collection using nut leaf, buttercup, poppies, henna, sandalwood and beetroot. Silhouettes are modern and light, utilising the pure silk and wool that fabricates her biannual collections. There is a strong Japanese influence to the collection; sleeves are oversized whilst dresses are wide and exaggerated. Working with imperfections the collection offers a new approach to luxury wear of the highest quality and consideration.
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Cecilie Klein-Pollack
Born: April 13, 1925
Yasinya, Czechoslovakia
Cecilie was the youngest of six children born to a religious Jewish family in the Czechoslovakian town of Yasinya. Her father, who was from Poland, taught private lessons in math and German. The family owned a small grocery store, which Cecilie's mother managed.
1933-39: My father died in 1934 when I was 9. In March 1939 Hungary, which was sympathetic to Nazi Germany, annexed the area of Czechoslovakia where we lived. One day, I arrived home to find my mother and sister had been arrested and imprisoned in Budapest. Our Czech citizenship was revoked, we were reclassified as "Polish," and were informed that we were being expelled to Poland. My mother was able to beg successfully for a six-month extension for herself, one of my sisters and me.
1940-44: We remained in Hungary, concealing our identities. In March 1944 the Germans occupied Hungary and we were deported with the Hungarian Jews to Auschwitz. On arriving, my sister and I were ordered to undress and our clothes were taken. We were shaved from head to toe, herded into showers and blasted by scalding and then freezing water. Then we were thrown rags to wear. Outside there was smoke and a vile smell in the air. We were told, "There are your mothers, sisters and fathers. They are burning them."
In the winter of 1944, Cecilie was deported from Auschwitz to the first of several labor camps. She was liberated by the Soviet army in the spring of 1945.


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7:30 pm
For Your Home "Nathaniel'sworld" Inspired by a funky world map, faux finisher Bob Nulf sets the stage with stripes, clouds and diving bi-planes as Vicki and Sloan turn a little boy's nursery into a big boy's world of discovery. D
8:00 pm
Christina Cooks "Cooking with Children" Many kids crave candy, fast food and soda, and as a result, they sometimes suffer from obesity, adult onset diabetes and premature maturation. Christina offers healthy alternatives to processed snacks and fast foods that many kids love to eat. D
8:30 pm
Travel with Kids "England - The Lake District" After hopping a train to the north, the family finds a world of literature awaiting in the English Lake District, an area so abundant with beauty it inspired celebrated authors like William Wordsworth and Beatrix Potter. Nathan and Seamus get a chance to explore some of the area stories at the World of Beatrix Potter Museum and the natural surrounds as they bump through the countryside in an off-road adventure, steam down the lake and up the mountains and get to know some of the area's woodland and lake creatures. D
9:00 pm
Chefs A' Field: Kids on the Farm "Walnut Shaking: Chef Michael Mina & Sons-Sacramento Valley & San Francisco, CA" Michael Mina Restaurants - San Francisco, CA; Carriere Farms - Sacramento, CA Michael Mina is considered by many to be one of the world's best chefs. In this episode, Chef Mina and his two sons, Sammy, age 8, and Anthony, age 4, head to the Sacramento Valley, where the walnut trees are in season and ready for the picking. But picking isn't exactly how they harvest a tree exploding with nuts. D
9:30 pm
Katie Brown Workshop "Best of Kids" Trying to get children to eat their veggies or lend a helping hand in the kitchen? Then join the Katie Brown Workshop as they dedicate this entire episode to great recipes to prepare with kids. D
10:00 pm
America's Test Kitchen from Cook's Illustrated "Lazy Day Breakfast" First up, equipment expert Adam Ried reviews waffle irons in the Equipment Corner. Then, test cook Yvonne Ruperti uncovers the secrets to extra-crispy Buttermilk Waffles. Then, science expert Guy Crosby reveals the science behind browning. D
10:30 pm
Simply Ming "Mom & Dad Tsai & Pressure Cookers" Ming's on top of the world in Napa Valley, affectionately known as the Spring Mountain District where he's joined by his parents, Steven & Iris Tsai. Together they show us the perfect culinary marriage of chicken, duck and wine when they create Coq au Vin and Red Roast Duck with Scallion Pancakes. D
11:00 pm
Mexico -- One Plate at a Time with Rick Bayless "Sustainable Aquaculture in the Rich Waters of Ensenada" Two of Ensenada's best seafood chefs, Benito Molina and Alain Genchi, join Rick for a lesson in mollusk farming. Juan Carlos Lapuente of Acuacultura Integral de Baja California takes the trio to the rich coastal waters to see oyster and mussel farming. Along the way, we learn that the quality of these waters is what makes the seafood from this area so outstanding. D
11:30 pm
Rick Steves' Europe "Berlin: Resilient, Reunited, and Reborn" Rick climbs the Reichstag's new glass dome, visits a modern-day caberet and tastes chocolate in the eastern sector.G


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It's been more than four years since we reported to you on the construction of a small hydroelectric plant at Eco-Village. In the meantime, we've been working steadily on refining the design to improve its performance and make it more practical. And, as our system has matured, we've learned some lessons — ones you can "go to school on" to make your own system work (and cost) right the first time.
The Crossflow Turbine
You may remember that the heart of our small hydroelectric plant is a homemade crossflow turbine that's 12 inches in diameter and 18 inches long. The device was made by slicing 72-degree sections from 4-inch Schedule 40 steel pipe and welding 20 of the arcs into end plates made of ¼ -inch mild steel. It still runs essentially unchanged: We removed it at one point and trued its circumference on a lathe, in hopes of gaining power from the tighter fit between turbine and nozzle. Unfortunately, reducing the clearance to 1/32 inch produced no detectable effect on the runner's output.
In its nearly five years of operation, our crossflow has spun away without a hitch. Even though debris from the lake has slightly bent one of the blades, the tweak hasn't noticeably affected the turbine's performance.
Maintenance has consisted solely of an annual greasing of the SCB pillow-block bearings that the 1 7/16-inch shaft rides on.
Reliable as it's been, however, we have wished that the turbine had been designed differently in the first place. Our crossflow's nozzle was sized to deliver 3.5 cubic feet per second (cfs, or about 1,500 gallons per minute) of water, and we've confirmed that discharge rate with a weir, a flow-measuring device. The problem is that we don't have a dependable 3.5-cfs supply from the 11-acre (54-acre-foot) Eco-Village lake. The system design was based on an Army Corps of Engineers estimated flow rate for Transylvania County, N.C., of 3.8 cfs per square mile. That was a mistake.
Since the Eco-Village plant went on-line, a detailed assessment of microhydropower potential in western North Carolina (sponsored by the North Carolina Alternative Energy Corporation, or NCAEC) has produced much more specific — and therefore accurate — flow figures for the region. As it happens, the Eco-Village's elevation is somewhat lower than the average for Transylvania County. And in the Southern Appalachian region, flow per square mile increases with altitude. The NCAEC report suggests that the mean flow at Eco-Village should be about 2.6 cfs per square mile, a number that jibes well with our experience.
What does all this mean? Well, during much of the year we simply can't run our turbine full-time without draining the lake. And, because we're adamant about maintaining stable ecological conditions in the lake and downstream, we have to keep a close eye on the lake level while the plant is operating.
Changing the turbine discharge will be a difficult undertaking, because the assembly is cast into reinforced concrete. Nonetheless, we plan to install an adjustable nozzle. To date, all the homebuilt crossflow turbines that we know of have been able to release only a fixed amount of water. Now, however, there are three different variable-flow nozzle designs in development by members of the Appalachian Micro-Hydro Association, all three of which are within the construction capabilities of an individual with a well-equipped home shop. Two of these turbines have already been built, and one is installed and undergoing testing (in nearby Murphy) as this is written.
A nozzle capable of varying water discharge could increase the annual output of our hydroplant considerably. If, for example, the nozzle were designed for flows of between 1.5 and 4.5 cfs, the system could take full advantage of periods of heavy rainfall and then operate at lower output during dry spells (instead of shutting down). You can be sure that we'll report on at least one of the variable designs if and when it's proved successful.
Generating Power
The 10-kilowatt Kato alternator that we initially installed was far too large for the actual output of the system. Most alternators achieve their best efficiency at 80 to 90 percent of their rated capacity, and we were a far cry from that. Besides that, the $3,000 unit was far more expensive than necessary.
In the spring of 1981, we replaced the Kato with a Winpower 2.5-kilowatt, 120-volt AC unit, which we bought for $750 off the shelf from a local electrical supplier. Our prior efforts to scrounge a replacement unit had been unsuccessful: We found that used and rebuilt alternators were available in larger sizes, but that a secondhand 1,800-RPM alternator smaller than 5 kw was a rare bird indeed. Consequently, we decided to buy a new unit. In four years the Winpower has failed only once — when a mouse nibbled through a rectifier wire. The repair cost less than $50.
The turbine and generator are linked by a pair of three-groove pulleys with two B-width belts. The lower one (on the turbine) is 20.5 inches in diameter, and the upper sheave is adjustable to fine-tune speed. We've found that, with our 12.5 feet of net head, the turbine runs most efficiently at 275 to 300 RPM, which corresponds to an upper diameter of about 3 1/3 inches. According to standard engineering texts, a single-step speed increase of this ratio is too high for optimum efficiency. However, when we tried installing a jack shaft to make the speed increase in two stages, the system's output declined.
With an independent, alternating-current (standard-household-power) system such as ours, it's important that generator speed remain constant to maintain steady voltage and cycles. Our last report described a mechanical speed control that sensed generator speed and adjusted two variable pulleys to keep RPM constant. For several reasons, we've discarded that system in favor of another.
The variable-pulley arrangement used a drive belt roughly 4 inches wide, and an impressive amount of heat was released by the hardware during operation. Heat means friction, and it was obvious that our watts were being used to warm the generator shack (as it turned out, about 300 watts were going to friction). On top of the inefficiency of the mechanical control, its response lagged behind drastic changes in load, allowing transient changes of cycling to as low as 52 and as high as 68 hertz. The final blow, though, was the cost of the system: roughly $3,000, custom-made.
When we substituted the Winpower alternator for the Kato, we changed the speed control to an electronic load diverter, which we bought for $575 from Hydro-Watt, Inc. This device maintains a constant output from the generator by switching the load between the demand circuit and a water heater (or other resistive load). Now, when we call for lights in the log cabin woodworking shop, the electronic panel automatically diverts power from the water heater and delivers it to the shop.
At the time, the electronic diverter solved all of our control problems for what seemed a reasonable amount of money, so we have no quibble with the price. But there was the nagging knowledge that whatever it was that made the control work certainly didn't cost more than $100 in parts. Frankly, though, we just didn't have the electronic expertise to design one of these theoretically complicated gadgets. Then in June of 1984 a person with that know-how happened to visit Eco-Village and attend the hydropower workshop. Before heading home, George Ruppert offered to take a stab at designing a control.
Three months later, a package arrived in the mail. A week after that, George drove in to help install and debug the control. Basically his control consists of about $35 worth of electronics and a circuit simple enough for a hobbyist to understand. The thing works, and very well! We're now maintaining constant output within 3 volts, equal to a change in cycling of about one, from no- to full-demand load.
Other Changes
In January of 1982 a staff member demonstrated the plant to visitors and then shut the gate valve that controls water flow completely when he went home. That night, the temperature dropped below zero, and the $900 valve split wide open. The cast iron was too far gone to be welded up, so we were in the market for a new valve. Rather than purchase another high-priced gate valve, we decided to try a butterfly valve. The butterfly is simply a disk that can be turned parallel or perpendicular to the flow, while the gate drops down across the flow by way of a threaded rod.
Because the butterfly can be closed much more quickly than the gate, it increases the possibility of pipe hammer, and its design is inherently weaker than its slower-closing cousin. Still, for $275 (a $625 saving), we figured it was worth a try, and in the three years since it was installed, the butterfly has given us no trouble at all. For our low-head (and therefore low-pressure) installation, the butterfly valve seems to be adequate.
We've also changed our intake screen to a 3-foot-square frame covered with ½ -inch galvanized hardware cloth. The trash rack's large surface area keeps water moving through slowly enough to prevent debris from plugging the screen. A cleaning after the leaves fall each year is all that's necessary. We did encounter one problem at the intake end: Because our intake opening is simply the end of our 10-inch pipe, without any funnel, we sometimes draw a vortex of air all the way down to the pipe, which is 24 inches underwater. The air that's drawn in seriously hampers performance, but we learned to break up the vortex by floating a piece of ¼ -inch marine plywood on the surface within the intake screen. The plywood needs to be replaced annually, before it rots, sinks and is sucked into the pipe.
The Bottom Line
We've been able to boost the output of our small hydroelectric plant from 1,800 watts to 2,100 watts, largely because of the much more efficient control system. The net efficiency of the system is now between 55 and 60 percent, a typical range for well-executed microhydroelectric plants. By using a Prony brake (a sort of makeshift dynamometer), we've been able to determine that the turbine is operating at roughly 70 percent efficiency. That's less than many commercial turbines achieve that operate at higher heads. For a homemade device running with only 12.5 feet of head, however, it's a pretty respectable figure.
Though we've spent quite a bit of money refining our system over the last five years, the plant could be duplicated (with the benefit of 20/20 hindsight) roughly using the chart in the image gallery.
Hired labor would obviously boost this total considerably, but even if the price doubled, the plant would only cost about $2.75 per watt of installed capacity. And in a year's time, it could conceivably produce almost 18,000 kwh, or about $1,250 worth of power at our prevailing retail rates. (Selling to the utility, which we have opted not to do, would bring only about one-third of the retail rate.)
After five years of polishing, our little hydroplant is undoubtedly one of the most refined pieces of alternative energy hardware at Eco-Village. Now we're just waiting for the first successful variable-flow turbine to be demonstrated.
Building an Electronic Speed Control
George Ruppert's electronic speed control can be built almost entirely from parts available at a local Radio Shack. The triac and its heat sink, however, will have to be obtained through an electronics supply house. Bear in mind that these components will have to be sized according to your system's output. Because the maximum current our generator can produce is a little less than 20 amps, and the peak voltage could be about 230 in a severe overspeed condition, George picked a 40-amp, 400-volt triac to allow a generous margin of safety. (Also, the model George used doesn't require insulated mounting screws, which reduces the chance of failure and shock.) The triac you choose should have a control current of 50 milliamps or less.
Very briefly, the device is a voltage sensor that controls the portion of each cycle in which power is delivered to a resistive load (a water heater). The power supply transforms 120 VAC to 12 VAC, and a bridge rectifier dips the alternating current pulses. The power supply has three outputs: a line pulse to control the two-part timer, an 18-volt output that varies with generator voltage and regulated 5 VDC. A comparator circuit supplies a variable current, the level of which depends on the deviation from 18 volts, to the front half of the LM 556 timer. A potentiometer on one side of the comparator allows the voltage to be adjusted. The length of time that the first timer stays on determines when the second timer sends a signal (of about 85 milliamps) to the triac. Only when activated by the second timer does the triac send power to the water heater. And, because the triac resets each time voltage crosses zero, the amount of current delivered to the water heater is in proportion to the point in the sine wave where the second timer tells it to kick on.
A few precautions about the device: The 120-VAC neutral ties from the transformer across to the triac, so the circuit board of the controller could deliver a dangerous shock. Bear this in mind when you're fiddling with the board or adjusting the voltage. A protective cover, with an access hole for the voltage-adjustment potentiometer, would offer worthwhile protection. Also, the heat sink for the triac must be large enough to dissipate heat adequately, or the triac will fail to switch. Be sure to use a large heat sink, and apply the triac to it with heat-sink compound. Finally, the load that the triac supplies should be resistive (as is our water heater), because a reactive load may require phase correction.


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Strecker earns consecutive All-Atlantic Sun honors
MACON, Ga. – Lipscomb men's tennis senior Oliver Strecker has been named to the 2012 Atlantic Sun Conference Second Team as announced by the league.
"Oliver has really had to work hard both mentally and physically this year," said Lipscomb head coach Andrew Harris. "He continues to show improvement and this is really a testimony to the work he has done mentally."
A 2011 First-Team A-Sun selection, Strecker joins only Harris and current assistant coach Mike Sherman as multi-year all-conference selections for the Bisons.


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Rumer Willis: Super Bowl Birthday Celebration with Tallulah!
Rumer Willis takes her sister Tallulah for some shopping on her 19th birthday on Super Bowl Sunday (February 3) in Los Angeles.
The day after, Tallulah was seen running across the street to get in the 24-year-old actress' car outside of her father Bruce Willis' house in Beverly Hills.
PHOTOS: Check out the latest pics of Rumer Willis
In case you missed it, Rumer's recent film Diary of Preston Plummer has been released on DVD.
25+ pictures inside of Rumer Willis celebrating Tallulah's birthday by shopping…


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These Detroit Speed control arms feature tubing and ends that have been laser-cut and precisely TIG welded in fixtures to guarantee geometric accuracy and an exact fit. Delrin bushings eliminate binding and all arms include new ball joints as well as a high-gloss black powder coated finish. Sold per pair; for upper or lower.


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Saturday, May 31, 2008
The Emphasis On "Team"
Part of the team concept comes from a reaction to a negative, Dion so unpopular, the Liberals need to draw attention to others to look a credible alternative. I prefer to look at in this way, if you have assets you exploit them, leadership questions aside, particularly if it draws attention to your opponent's weakness. With that in mind, a radical idea prior to the next election. Heading into the campaign, what if Dion were to name his potential cabinet?
The Liberals already have the standard critics, but I think it would be a political winner to put together a theoretical cabinet this summer, allow each MP to focus on their theoretical portfolio, then announce the team when an election is called. In that way, the Liberals could present to Canadians what a Liberal government would look like. Campaigns tend to focus on the leader disproportionately, by announcing a future cabinet, it would necessitate a look beyond who is PM. As the campaign proceeds, any issues that arise would put more attention on whomever is responsible for that particular portfolio.
Imagine a scenario where the Liberals release the daily policy announcement, and Dion isn't the only voice, the only salesman. A foreign policy initiative, reporters seek out the Liberals Minister of Foreign Affairs Bob Rae, who would easily outshine Emerson, or whomever the Conservatives choose from their thin ranks. A question about carbon shifting, enter Ignatieff, the Liberal Environment Minister, a question on Justice, enter Ken Dryden or Dominic LeBlanc, Martha Hall Findlay on Immigration... you get the drift. In pre-announcing the potential cabinet, would that not draw attention to talent pool, allow Canadians to see the group the Liberals would offer. Put that, side by side, with the Conservatives, hard to find much in the way of a threat.
Such a plan would demand the media focus on people other than Dion, as events dictate which issues rise to the fore. It would also show Canadians a greater diversity with the Liberal team, as opposed to the white man blandness of the single note Conservatives. It's hard for me to see a downside in any pre-announcement, although unorthodox, it allows people to pass judgement on who is best able to govern as a whole. It says to Canadians, we are ready to go, here are the people, ready to hit the ground running. Harper vs Dion, an uphill battle, Liberals vs Conservatives, a much better presentation. The best way to dictate the message of team, put that team in place and allow them to shine.
40 comments:
- wilson said...
And they are winners because Rae, Iggy, Dryden, Martha were real performers in their federal cabinet posts, right??
When the election finally comes, Cons will have MPs that held cabmin and jr positions for 4 (four) years vs. Liberal talent that held .... what?
Does the LPC have any strong MPs outside of Toronto?
- 11:37 AM, May 31, 2008
- Steve V said...
"When the election finally comes, Cons will have MPs that held cabmin and jr positions for 4 (four) years vs. Liberal talent that held .... what?"
Have you seen your cabinet? That's why I said outside of "rabid partisans", because it's only a team Conservatives would find impressive. THIN.
- 11:43 AM, May 31, 2008
- RuralSandi said...
The Liberals mentioned have had great successes outside of politics - Dryden, hockey, Ignatieff, human rights, foreign afffairs, books, etc., Rae, foreign affairs, negotiations, etc., Martha Hall Findlay, olympic ski winner, lawyer and we could go on an on. This proves that these people are real performers in their own right and have the tenacity, drive and intelligence and goal oriented to get the job done. Each is also able to be good in any position handed them - versatile.
In fact, most of the Liberal caucus is talented.
And the CPC caucus? If they had "real" talent they wouldn't have to resort to extreme partisanship and putdowns - their value would speak on its own.
- 12:04 PM, May 31, 2008
- knb said...
Interesting idea Steve.
Playing devil's advocate, it would open the door for concerted attacks on specific people as spurious as they may be.
wilson, you crack me up.
- 12:18 PM, May 31, 2008
- Anonymous said...
Hey, good idea. Like it a lot! And it would force voters to re-focus how they view the parties - more depth.
- 12:36 PM, May 31, 2008
- burlivespipe said...
Interesting idea. I would consider that if you go that extra step, it would likely give the CONs more targets for their dissinformation/hyperbolic scripts. But i think the contrasting idea, of team and depth of talent on the team, is terrific.
On a similar note, as Don Martin called out on CBC, what I think is more important is to demonstrate the role that women would play in the caucus. Highlight the experience and out-of-parliament experience that our main members have. Harper's cabinet is a shell of wind-up clown musical boxes. He is also frightened of using more than one or two at a time. The only star candidate i've heard of that is very possible for a Con point of view is Hillier, which would put two 'A' type personalities, well, one with a personality the other with a Vista Home version;^) at the top of a real miserable heap.
- 12:55 PM, May 31, 2008
- Anonymous said...
Hm...so the Tories have a strong leader and a team of incompetent yes-men. The Liberals have a very weak, incoherent leader, but some big names in the shadow cabinet.
I'll just take the best of both worlds - the NDP has a very strong, dynamic, popular leader in Jack Layton AND they also have a caucus full of strong performers (ie: Davies, Cullen, Siksay, Martin, Blaikie, Nash, Chow, Angus, Mulcair, MacDonough, Stoffer etc... just to name a few)
- 1:01 PM, May 31, 2008
- Anonymous said...
And, the NDP have - policies and attitudes right out of the 70's. They really do need to move to the 21st century.
- 1:05 PM, May 31, 2008
- Gayle said...
One of the pundits, I think on the At Issue panel, commented that the liberals are finally starting to look like a government in waiting. Your idea would emphasize that point.
I am not sure about Dryden in Justice though... :)
I would comment that in Edmonton Centre the Liberal candidate is a man named Jim Wachowich. His family are well known in Edmonton, particularly in legal circles. He would probably get positive press and has a real chance at winning the seat back from Laurie Hawn. He is also a well-known cosumer advocate. He probably could not jump into a senior cabinet position like Anne McLellan did, but it could not hurt his campaign if voters knew he would be in some cabinet post.
- 1:07 PM, May 31, 2008
- knb said...
gayle, I'd put Dryden in Social Justice or Development.
- 1:28 PM, May 31, 2008
- Steve V said...
I was just throwing out names. One other point to consider, and this goes to the more targets for the Cons to smear comments, it would show that the Liberal MP's are open, while the Cons are muzzled. It could really contrast nicely with the message control, or at the least, force some negativity with the press, as Liberals are available to comment on policy matters, while the Cons rely on directives from the war room. The Liberals present people, the Cons present fancy backgrounds and scripts.
- 2:03 PM, May 31, 2008
- Anonymous said...
Maybe they can propose Bob Rae as Finance Minister and take advantage of his great reputation for sound fiscal management!!
- 2:08 PM, May 31, 2008
- Steve V said...
As compared to Flaherty, the guy who lied about his own fiscal management. Put anyone beside the angry little troll, and they would shine. Anyways.... the boring anon speaks.
One other thought, once we have a full slate of candidates, the party could identify which new one's have a proper background to be considered for certain positions. In this way, you could target a few seats, held by other parties, letting the local voters know, that should they vote for this candidate, he/she would have considerable influence in government. Unseating MP's isn't an easy task, adding clout to potential MP's might sway, or at least draw more attention.
- 2:15 PM, May 31, 2008
- RuralSandi said...
Boy, when you look at it, the Liberals really do have an impressive caucus.
And, the current caucus had absolutely nothing to do with adscam and the CPC can't continually use that ridiculous rant - actually, people I've spoken to are truly bored with that - it's done, over.
- 3:01 PM, May 31, 2008
- The Jurist said...
(T)he party could identify which new one's have a proper background to be considered for certain positions. In this way, you could target a few seats, held by other parties, letting the local voters know, that should they vote for this candidate, he/she would have considerable influence in government. Unseating MP's isn't an easy task, adding clout to potential MP's might sway, or at least draw more attention.
Isn't the converse also true though? If you name a cabinet-in-waiting in advance, then every voters in every riding whose candidate doesn't make the cut will rightly perceive that they're going to have no say.
- 3:03 PM, May 31, 2008
- RuralSandi said...
I meant to add to Anon: NDP's Blaikie and McDonough will not be running in the next election - they are retiring.
Besides, the NDP are more like the neighbourhood snoop - they are always snooping like blue haired gossip ladies.
- 3:05 PM, May 31, 2008
- WesternGrit said...
MPs outside of Ontario? Are you serious? We have Ralph Goodale (MP of the year in 2005/6?). Then their is Ujjal Dosonjh (former BC Premier AND federal cabinet minister). We have a PLETHORA of candidates on the East coast with federal experience (too numerous to name). We also have several stars in the Greater Vancouver area which have been huge talents OUTSIDE of politics (not life-long Conservative back-room hacks like our PM - and that includes the NCC), and have strong provincial and municipal electoral experience.
It's no contest. You lose. Keep talking about Mr. Bungles.
- 3:09 PM, May 31, 2008
- WesternGrit said...
Far and Wide: Nice idea, with one sticky point: Elections often identify your superstars. People very often shine on the pulpit, and as a result probably work into a ministerial role. We have so many people who are talents OUTSIDE of political life, that our "cup literally runeth over".
With so many potential stars, you want to ensure that they all have a fair shot at becoming ministers in government - and not name the few names that you know in advance. How would you attract more stars to the party, if you've already decided on your cabinet? You would hope that they would still run, but seriously, a real heavy-hitter that deserves a cabinet role (let's hypothetically assume a Danny Williams) would definitely want to know there is a shot. Besides, if any of these "stars" lose, it's quite a laughing matter for the opposition... They would probably target all of them HARD to crumble the whole theory...
But... it is a good idea in principle. I think the "critic" route is best. I'm confident these people will step to the forefront on these matters. Besides, the media knows where the stars lie. The Canadian public too...
- 3:15 PM, May 31, 2008
- Anonymous said...
"NDP's Blaikie and McDonough will not be running in the next election - they are retiring."
Blaikie is the only member of the current NDP caucus who is retiring (compare that to the vast number of Liberal MPs who are bailing out). MacDonough has already been renominated to run again and she has stated numerous times that she plans to keep running until the day she dies.
- 3:51 PM, May 31, 2008
- Steve V said...
" How would you attract more stars to the party, if you've already decided on your cabinet?"
That could cut both ways, you could attract star candidates if you told them they would have a portfolio.
"Isn't the converse also true though? If you name a cabinet-in-waiting in advance, then every voters in every riding whose candidate doesn't make the cut will rightly perceive that they're going to have no say."
That's true. But, if you take that to its final conclusion, then you could argue there is no sense voting for anyone who wouldn't be part of the cabinet, like NDP candidates ;)
- 4:22 PM, May 31, 2008
- Anonymous said...
McDonough must have changed her mind because I saw her interviewed by Katherine Clark on CPAC just a couple of months ago and she said she was going to retire and spend more time with her kids/grandkids.
Layton must have talked her into staying.
The so-called vast number of Liberals retiring - just take a look at their ages - late 60's most of them. Doesn't mean a thing. They realize it's time for new blood.
The "only" two NDP's I respect are Blaikie and Comartin - the rest are just activists and/or unionists.
We couldn't afford an NDP government - triple the taxes probably.
- 4:24 PM, May 31, 2008
- janfromthebruce said...
We couldn't afford an NDP GOVT - TOO EXPENSIVE. Well, considering it was two NDP govts - provincially (with the exception of the Bob Rae Ont govt)- that were the first to get out of deficit (even before the fed lib govt) in the mid 90s, one should base their conclusions on FACT, rather than fantasy, and drinking their party's koolade.
Them are the facts, mame!
- 5:34 PM, May 31, 2008
- Calgary Junkie said...
Okay, how is this going to work in practice, over a 36 day campaign ?
The media will be on Dion's campaign plane/bus, following him along from place to place. The media will expect Dion to make policy announcements, hold daily press conferences, hold impromptu scrums (to react to events unfolding elsewhere), give stump speeches, and the like.
Dion will be the go to guy for whatever is happening during the campaign. The media will not try and track down Ignatieff/Rae/whoever for a reaction. It's too much trouble for them.
Unless you guys have Ignatieff and a few others tagging along with Dion ? But the optics of that are questionable.
You guys are just going to irritate the media, if you change the rules they are used to.
- 5:34 PM, May 31, 2008
- Anonymous said...
Gary Doer is okay, but he does cut corporate taxes - not a thing Layton likes.
Didn't the NDP have problems in BC?
- 6:07 PM, May 31, 2008
- Anonymous said...
Maybe the Grits should set these debates rule come election time and put less emphasis on Dion.
Emerson v. Rae on Foreign Affairs.
Martha v. Flaherty on Finance.
Wilfert v. MacKay on Defence.
McGuinty v. Baird on the Environment.
Forget about inviting Layton and Duceppe to the televised debates. They can't form government.
The thing about this concept is will Harper let his ministers go into a CBC Town Hall meeting and embarrass themselves? Or are we changing the debate rules to reflect the leadership polls?
- 6:13 PM, May 31, 2008
- Steve V said...
"You guys are just going to irritate the media, if you change the rules they are used to."
Huh? Surely, you can come up with something better than that. Why wouldn't the media seek out others, they do it EVERYDAY now.
- 6:38 PM, May 31, 2008
- Möbius said...
I love that Volpe/Coderre tag-team!
- 6:45 PM, May 31, 2008
- North of 49 said...
I've got another angle on Jurist's question: "Isn't the converse also true though? If you name a cabinet-in-waiting in advance, then every voters in every riding whose candidate doesn't make the cut will rightly perceive that they're going to have no say."
Good point. But in my riding, the Liberal candidate is one I'd prefer to see out of politics altogether. I'll probably vote strategically, for him, just to make sure the Cons don't get the seat, but it will be a nose-holding exercise.
On the other hand, if I knew that a Liberal win would put certain other better candidates into Cabinet, I could vote for him with less revulsion and more enthusiasm.
So there's another up-side.
- 6:48 PM, May 31, 2008
- Steve V said...
"I love that Volpe/Coderre tag-team!"
- 6:57 PM, May 31, 2008
- knb said...
Steve: Huh? Surely, you can come up with something better than that. Why wouldn't the media seek out others, they do it EVERYDAY now.
Precisely. I'm sure they are chomping at the bit to get something, anything to report on.
So my question to you is this. Can we get this in place for Monday?
I know the answer of course, but there is something in me that would love to take them down then. Harper's off his game and I'm not sure now is not a good time to go.
- 6:59 PM, May 31, 2008
- Steve V said...
You hawk you ;) It is a good time, when you consider the inner circle is in flux, they don't expect an election. Truthfully, I've just resigned myself to the fall, but what you're saying is intriguing.
- 7:02 PM, May 31, 2008
- Anonymous said...
"Can we get this in place for Monday?"
The team is already in place. You can start paralyzing the House on Monday through filibustering. Something the Grits aren't even thinking of starting at this moment :(
- 8:08 PM, May 31, 2008
- knb said...
Doves have claws too...not talons perhaps but the older we grow, the tougher they get.
Seriously, if we could do this on Monday it would be brilliant.
I too doubt it will happen, but I think we might be missing something here.
Harper's in the midst of a cabinet shift and policy paucity.
I think it could work.
- 8:47 PM, May 31, 2008
- knb said...
mushroom, well, maybe we should push that. We still have Sunday.
I'm serious here. I think you're right in terms of a filibuster. I fear Lib's would be loathe to do that, lest they be compared to the Con's, but it would show strength.
All in favour, write your MP tonight and tomorrow.
- 9:33 PM, May 31, 2008
- Anonymous said...
Monday's main agenda in Parliament is movement towards Final Reading of the budget, which includes the contentious immigration reforms. My local MP will support a filibuster, but he is an NDPer anyway. In fact, I expect the NDP to start a filibuster soon.
Also note that I expect Harper to shut down Parliament between now and June 20 to avoid any further confidence motions. He will also not recall Parliament until after the Conservative policy convention, knowing full well the House will fall immediately after the Fall Throne Speech. The Cons expect some damage for doing this, but they have come into the realization that the Government cannot limp until Fall 2009.
- 10:25 PM, May 31, 2008
- Steve V said...
"Harper's in the midst of a cabinet shift and policy paucity."
While the summer might allow Dion and the Liberals time to get their message out, it doesn't happen in isolation, the Conservatives can also retool and come up with some new policy. In some ways, it's hard to imagine the government going through a tougher patch, then they have the last couple of months. I try to think of it from the Con side, when Parliament shuts down for the summer, there will be relief, which actually speaks volumes.
- 11:19 PM, May 31, 2008
- RuralSandi said...
I wouldn't put it past Harper to have some (secret) policies he's saving "just in case". I wouldn't be surprised if he wanted to opposition parties to believe there's nothing there.
The Liberals could stress the amount of talent and would have no problems filling the cabinet positions at all - but not say who in what position.
- 11:31 AM, June 01, 2008
- Gayle said...
I am confident Harper has policies he will hang onto until the election. He needs to run on something, and good government is not it.
- 11:43 AM, June 01, 2008
- Möbius said...
And I thought the left had no sense of humour.
Desperate times.
- 4:15 PM, June 01, 2008
- The Pundits' Guide said...
Looks like ruralsandi scooped the former NDP Leader on a Liblog ...
Alexa to leave federal politics
(link will probably only be good for 7 days)
- 10:23 AM, June 02, 2008


text:
DENVER—Farm-fresh eggs are getting a look from Colorado lawmakers, who are considering loosening requirements for selling whole eggs.
A bill under consideration in a House committee Thursday would allow egg producers to sell up to 250 dozen whole eggs per month without a dealer's license.
The egg bill is a revision for a measure approved last year to allow home cooks to sell up to $5,000 a year of certain foods without commercial production requirements.
Currently egg producers have to acquire a Small Egg Producer/Dealer license to sell eggs at farmer's markets. There are no licensing requirements for selling eggs directly from a farm or property.
House Bill 1158: http://bit.ly/YeQ96x


text:
March 31, 2007
Box Score - Game 1
Box Score - Game 2
After starting the month of March by losing eight straight games, the Lady Bisons have been finding ways to win. In some games it was the long ball, in some games is was playing the short game, and in some games is was dominate pitching.
Saturday the Lady Bisons defeated Jacksonville 3-2 in the first game and 5-2 in the second game by components of all three.
Since sweeping Belmont on March 14, Lipscomb finished the month of March by winning 11 of their final 14 games.
In the first game of Saturday's double header, the Lady Bisons needed three extra innings to break a 2-2 tie.
In the bottom of the tenth, under conference tiebreaker rules, Lauren Dortwegt was placed on second start the inning. Leigh Little was then intentionally walked. Heather Collins attempted a sacrifice bunt, but Jacksonville pitcher Katie Buell threw the ball over the first baseman's head allowing Dortwegt to round third and score the winning run for Lipscomb.
Earlier in the game, the Lady Bisons scored a single run in the second inning. Jacksonville was back on top in the top of the third after scoring two runs, only one of which was earned.
Lipscomb fought back and tied the game in the bottom of the sixth inning. Lauren Dortwegt singled to start the inning. Leigh Little moved her to second base with a sacrifice bunt. A batter later, Kellie Sirus double Dortwegt home.
Christen Campbell pitched a 10-inning complete game for the Lady Bisons giving up only one earned run and five hits while not walking a batter. She improved to 12-6 on the season.
The Bisons struck early in game two placing two runs on the board in the first inning. Leigh Little singled and was driven home on a triple by Kellie Sirus. An error by the third baseman on Abby Keese's batted ball allowed Kellie Sirus to score.
Kim Jacobson, who lost Friday night's game to North Florida, dominated Saturday's nightcap for the Lady Bisons. In the 5-2 win, she pitched a six-hit complete game while only walking one batter.
Her only miscue of the night came in the top of the fifth. After a single by Patricia Melo, Jillian Mirante hit an inside-the-park homerun down the leftfield line that bounced around in leftfield corner.
The Lady Bisons, who enlarged their lead to 3-0 in the bottom of the fourth, were not discouraged when their lead was cut to two.
In the bottom of the fifth, Leigh Little led off the inning with a triple to right field. Heather Collins knocked her home with a double to center field.
Lipscomb struck again in the sixth when Kristie Sirus singled Niki Bails home.
Kim Jacobson improved to 6-8 on the year. Shannon Jensen (4-11) was credited with the loss for Jacksonville after giving up four runs in four innings of work.
After the sweep, Lipscomb is 19-16 overall and 6-2 in the A-Sun. Jacksonville is 11-30 overall and 2-4 in the A-Sun.


text:
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Sermons (2)
|The Consistent Love of God
|Jonah 4:1-11 (Part of the Guest Speaker series).
|Preached by Peter Kenny on January 31, 2016 (Sunday Morning).
|Has Anything Changed?
|Titus 3:1-8 (Part of the Guest Speaker series).
|Preached by Peter Kenny on May 26, 2013 (Sunday Morning).
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text:
The president of Germany's Bundesbank warned that as central banks lose their independence, there is increasing risk of currency wars.
Jens Weidmann cautioned in a speech in Frankfurt that as central banks move or are moved away from their primary concern of price stability, competitive devaluations to make a country's products more affordable and boost exports could rise. That in turn risks unleashing a global inflationary spiral.
He said Japan and Hungary are already seeing significant political interference with their central banks.
"One consequence, whether intended or not, could also be an increasing politicization of the exchange rate," Weidmann said.
— Tom Bemis
Follow The Tell blog on Twitter @thetellblog


text:
Airman's best friend
In Iraq they were inseparable, a daring duo whose mission was to seek out dangerous explosives hidden in the desert. But as often happens after a combat deployment, the two friends drifted apart. In the years following Iraq, new assignments and advancing age sent them down separate paths.
That's how the story of Rob and Aron might have ended if it hadn't been for a New Mexico retiree's dogged determination to bring the former battle buddies back together one more time.
MSgt. Rob Black has trained and handled Military Working Dogs (MWD) for much of his time in the Air Force. A lifelong animal lover, the Eagle River resident said working with dogs is the best job he can imagine.
"What other job in the military can you play with animals?" Black said. "Plus, where else do you get to do something as good as saving people and finding explosives?"
While stationed at Kirtland Air Force Base in New Mexico, Black was assigned a MWD named "Aron," a young German Shepherd whose bark was worse than his bite. That's not always such a good thing for MWD's, animals often tasked with attacking the bad guys and not letting go.
"We determined he wasn't a street dog," Black said. "He'd bark his head off and come after you, but…"
Black said Aron could look the part, but the dog didn't have much of a killer instinct. But Aron's sense of smell was second to none, and Black soon realized the canine's uncanny nose would make an outstanding bomb detector. Aron found his niche.
"He was an awesome bomb dog," Black said.
Rob and Aron deployed to Iraq in 2005 in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom, where they first got an unwelcome reception from the Army unit they were assigned to. On their first patrol, Aron barked nonstop while confined to the vehicle. After that, not a lot of soldiers wanted to ride with the dog handler and his noisy partner.
"Nobody wanted to hang with Aron," Black said.
That changed in Jan. 2006, when Black and Aron were called into help clear a village of danger. Sniffing into the wind, the German Shepherd followed the ground with his nose before alerting to something buried underground. It turned out to be 17 pounds of powerful C-4 explosives. After that, Black said commanders began asking for Aron by name.
"They said, 'For what we get we'll put up with the barking,'" he said.
The pair developed a strong bond. That doesn't always happen with handlers and dogs, Black said, but there was something special about his partnership with Aron.
"Me and him worked really well together," Black said.
Everywhere Black went in Iraq, Aron was at his side.
"Except to eat or take a shower, we were together 24-7," Black said.
A memorable photo op
Black and Aron continued as a team after their return stateside, working high-profile duty like presidential appearances or major events. During his bomb-sniffing duties, Aron rubbed noses with big-name celebrities like Susan Sarandon and David Bowie.
Aron even met the Dalai Lama.
Black said he and Aron had just finished sweeping the Tibetan Buddhist leader's hotel room during a visit to New York City when Secret Service members told them to make themselves scarce.
"We're supposed to be kinda behind the scenes," Black said.
He and Aron ducked into an adjacent room while the Dalai Lama entered. Black kept still and quiet, but he couldn't keep the dog from introducing himself to the global icon.
"He comes in and Aron goes [Bark! Bark! Bark!]," Black said, doing his best imitatation of a wildly-barking Aron.
Black said the Dalai Lama took things in stride. In fact, the monk walked up and gently offered his hand to the animal — then made a surprising request.
"He wanted to get a picture," Black said.
In the photo, Black stands proudly between his partner and His Holiness. The Dalai Lama wears a wide grin; Aron wears a muzzle.
The duo parted ways in 2008, when Black was transferred to Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson. Unlike civilian police K-9 units — which typically live and retire with their handlers — MWD's are assigned by base and have several handlers. After leaving New Mexico, Black figured he'd seen the last of Aron.
"You never get to see the dogs again," he said. "Most of the time you only hear when they pass."
After a career that included three tours in Iraq and numerous presidential details, a 9-year-old Aron was retired from active duty in 2011.
The Department of Defense operates an adoption program for working dogs that gives priority to civilian law enforcement agencies and former handlers. If they're still available after that, dogs are adopted out to the public — although they're often highly sought after. More than a thousand applications for MWD adoptions are processed each year, according to the DOD. In addition to an application process, potential owners are screened to make sure they're good candidates for adoption. The adoptions are free, but new owners must pay to have the dogs transported to their new home.
Albuquerque's Jo Johnson heard about MWD adoptions online. After doing some research, she realized there was an Air Force kennel just down the road at Kirtland AFB. Having lost her last German Shepherd in 2005, Johnson said she was hoping to find a similar dog to fill the void when she applied for a MWD.
When a representative from Kirtland called and said a dog was available, Johnson's heart jumped. Then she heard the dog's name: Aron.
"I about fell out of my chair because my other two shepherds were Arnie and Augie," she said.
Johnson soon scheduled a meeting with Aron, and the two hit it off immediately.
"I just knew he was for me," she said.
In their two years together, Johnson said Aron has been an ideal canine companion. He's friendly to family members and protective of Johnson around strangers. And unless there's a motorcycle nearby, he doesn't even bark as much as he used to.
"I lucked out," Johnson said.
Road trip
Although she was thrilled to have a new companion, something about Aron's past nagged at Johnson. From the handlers at Kirtland, she knew of Aron's wartime heroics, and she wanted to know more about the dog's former life. So she again went online, and it wasn't long before she heard from Black.
During their first phone conversation, Johnson said she put Black on speakerphone. Sitting nearby, Aron's ears came to attention.
"He recognized him," Johnson said, her voice cracking with emotion. "I knew when he ran to get some toys."
Black and Johnson hit it off right away, sharing stories about Aron's unique personality over the phone.
"We talked for a good long time about the escapades of the dog," Black said.
Johnson said she knew what she had to do.
Earlier this spring, she told her boss she was retiring from her longtime job as a bookkeeper and buying a motor home.
"He thought I was nuts," she said.
In June, Johnson and Aron began the trip from New Mexico to Alaska. On July 2, they arrived in Eagle River, pulling into Black's driveway after a 3,600-mile journey. There, they waited for Black to return home from work.
After five years apart, Black said he wasn't sure what Aron's reaction would be to seeing him. Black needn't have worried.
"I just let Aron go and he ran up to him," Johnson said, recalling the reunion.
Black said it was as if the pair had never been separated.
"I pulled up and he just came right up to me and hung out," he said.
Johnson spent the first part of July camped out in Black's driveway, letting Rob and Aron spend time together rekindling a bond they shared while serving their country. For Black, Johnson's commitment to making the reunion happen was a unique gift.
"You just don't get this kind of opportunity," he said.
Johnson said getting to see dog and handler reunited made the long journey worthwhile.
"This is one of the best adventures I've ever had," she said.


text:
Metasploit Framework
Consider the MSF to be one of the single most useful auditing tools freely available to security professionals today. From a wide array of commercial grade exploits and an extensive exploit development environment, all the way to network information gathering tools and web vulnerability plugins. The Metasploit Framework provides a truly impressive work environment. The MSF is far more than just a collection of exploits, it's an infrastructure that you can build upon and utilize for your custom needs. This allows you to concentrate on your unique environment, and not have to reinvent the wheel. Currently, metasploit requieres you to setup and configure postgresql on your system to work. This wiki will show you how to get metasploit-git working with a postgresql database.
If you choose to install metasploitAUR package, you can update the framework from within the msfconsole with:
msf> svn update
but the updates won't be tracked by pacman.
A better solution is using metasploit-gitAUR.
There are serveral interfaces you can use with MSF although msfconsole is the one that can provide the most features available in MSF. To run it, go to terminal and run:
# /opt/metasploit/msfconsole
or put the following alias into your .bashrc
alias msfconsole='/opt/metasploit/msfconsole'
Note that metasploit is installed in
/opt/metasploit/ and metasploit-git in
/usr/src/metasploit/ so for the git version you do not need the alias.
Other interfaces are msfcli and msfgui.
See also
- Metasploit Unleashed Free information security training.