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Chinese Economy Deals with Major Challenges
China is the second largest economy in the world in terms of nominal GDP and the largest economy in the world in terms of purchasing power parity. China has been the growth story of the last few decades with the GDP growth averaging at 10% since 1980s to 2010. But over the last few years China has been experiencing a slowdown in growth due to many internal and external factors. What happens in China is very important for the global economy as it is one of the biggest manufacturing hubs of the world and a major trading partner for countries all over the world. The following are some of the challenges the Chinese economy is currently dealing with in 2014:
Challenges for the Chinese Economy
• There has been a slowdown in the Chinese economy over the last few years and certainly so over the last few months. This makes the Chinese economy less attractive to the global economy and importantly to investors.
• Inwards FDI investment has dropped in China in 2014 and another important aspect of the Chinese economy is that outbound investment has picked up. This means that Chinese companies are looking to invest all over the world now rather than just in the Chinese domestic economy. While it is good for the overall image of the Chinese economic story, investment is leaving the domestic economy.
• There has been a prolonged correction in the property market in China. The property boom has played a major role in the Chinese economy.
• China is looking to become a more consumption based economy rather than an investment driven one over the next few years. Also a general slowdown in growth is expected in China over the short term future at the least.
• The wage rate increase in China also means companies may be looking at other destinations to where labor costs and then in turn the manufacturing costs are lesser and more competitive than China.
• China has cracked down on corruption and also introduced stronger environmental laws. Though these are positive steps in the long run for China, its immediate negative economic impact is visible in China.
Even the most conservative estimates suggest that the Chinese growth is expected to slowdown in the next few years. Impact of this slowdown will be felt in the global economy. Countries that have major trade relations with China and are dependent on China for their exports and imports will definitely feel the effects of the slowdown in the near future.


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Next Thursday, 14 September, is the Australian Reading Hour. What is it, you ask? Well, you choose one hour of your day to snuggle up on the couch or run a deep bath or jump on the treadmill or sit under a tree, and read a book!
You can read it to yourself. You can read it to a child. The child could read it to you. Or someone could read a book to a teddy bear. The choices are endless!
To celebrate The Reading Hour, seven authorly friends and I--all SCBWI members--got together at Woden Library in Canberra (thanks, Pam and Sam!) for a wonderful event--two hours of stories with a bunch of fabulously engaged kids.
Things kicked off with Kerry Malone, reading two books, including her gorgeous You Can Do It, Joey!
Then it was me, asking everyone to raise a limb for how much they love books (thank you, Nicole!).
There also may or may not have been a rendition of We All Know Frogs Go La-de-da-de-dah...
Next up was Genevieve Hopkins who read her gorgeous book--The Adventures of William Brambleberry: Aviator Mouse.
Next was Amazing Grace Bryant with the funniest book, Tyrannosaurus Wrecks by Sudipta Bardhan-Quallen and Zachariah Qhora. It was hilarious!
You've just got to see how she says 'WRECKS!' I honestly wet myself during this reading. Wetting oneself is both good AND bad.
Next up was Stephanie Owen Reeder (and author of Amazing Grace! but not 'Bryant'), who brought along her gorgeous grandsons. She read from her brilliant books, Dance Like a Pirate and Feeling Fine. These got the kids moving!
A great video of Stephanie reading--how engaged were these kids??
Next was Cate Whittle with a totally clever and age-appropriate presi starring her irrepressible dragon, Trouble, from Trouble and the New Kid (a fantastic chapter book series for adventurous kids, ie: all kids).
The kids then went on a true adventure with a reading by Devon Sillett--The Leaky Story--awash with pirates and high seas!
To finish off two solid hours of story, Nicole Godwin handed out heart balloons and the kids played along, raising or lowering their balloons as Ella the elephant went through her heart-wrenching journey to find her mum. She also took us on a journey to Thailand, sharing slides of elephant sanctuaries. We learned a lot, including the fact that you can throw an entire pumpkin into an elephant's mouth and he will chomp it up like an apple, and he'll even gobble an entire banana tree!
Here is a shot of Nicole, SCBWI ACT Coordinator, and all round fab gal, Nicole Godwin, who organised this event and even put our book pages onscreen (thank you, Nicole!).
What an amazing event in celebration of The Reading Hour. Two hours zipped by in a flash, then we signed books and the kids snaffled some treats, from bookmarks to colouring pages and balloons and badges. It never fails to astound me how long kids--even very little kids--can sit and enjoy reading after reading.
Thank you to everyone who came along and making this event so special! I hope you'll join us on Thursday 14 September by reading for one hour.
Happy reading!
|Devon and son, Cate, Kerry, Grace, Nicole, me, Genevieve and son

subset: commoncrawl


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Mohs surgery and skin cancer
Q. I just went to see my dermatologist and he told me I might have a basal cell on my face. The dermatologist said that I would need to have Mohs surgery after he biopsied the lesion if it was a cancer. Can you tell me what Mohs surgery is and what I need to know to have it done?
Mohs surgery is a technique that was invented by Dr. Mohs. It is a technique that allows for the precise removal of cancer. The skin cancer is removed and examined under the microscope immediately so that all margins (areas between cancer and noncancer can be determined). This technique is done to maximize tissue conservation.
Once a patient is known to have skin cancer a patient is sent to a physician who is certified in Mohs surgery. The patient can usually undergo repair of the surgical defect with local anesthesia . By removing all the cancer the patient can then undergo a primary closure in order to have an optimal cosmetic result. Frequently a dermatologic surgeon who is a Mohs certified surgeon works with a facial plastic surgeon or plastic surgeon to complete the wound closure on the same day. Some Mohs surgeon also do the closure.
While you may have heard that Mohs surgery creates large defects, it's really the removal of the cancer that dictates the size of the defect. I believe that your doctor has given you good advice and that Mohs surgery seems to be the best treatment for you.
Dr. Carlos Wolf is a partner at MiamiPlasticSurgery.com. Email your questions to: firstname.lastname@example.com


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How to Build a Better College Website [Webinar Replay]
Let's be honest. A lot of college and university websites could use some improvement. Visitors get lost, offerings are unclear and the content and design don't represent all the amazing things you do.
This Must-Read Monday falls on President's Day, so we thought you could use a break from reading, and could enjoy a replay of our very popular webinar: How to Build a Better College Website.
Our good friends at Vision Point Marketing–who are experts in higher education web design–put together a great presentation on everything you need to do to build a great college website. From architecture and goal setting to design and governance, to choosing a content management system, they've covered all the bases.
Enjoy the video, or if you don't have time to watch, you can download the slides.
Karo was born in Poland, and learned to speak English by watching "Saved by the Bell" reruns during her first summer in the U.S., which has left her unable to go through life without occasionally breaking the fourth wall. As Percussion's content marketing manager, she oversees and creates content that drives website traffic, engages followers, and helps fill the marketing and sales funnel. She writes about content management, content marketing, SEO, social media and web design, and how to make it all less complicated.


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Judith Kinghorn
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Biographical Information for Judith Kinghorn:
Judith Kinghorn is a Minneapolis jewelry designer who works primarily in high karat gold, sterling silver and precious stones. Multi-layered and intricately textured, Judith's pieces are comprised of heavy layers of sterling silver and 24 karat gold fused together and embossed with hand etched plates. Her designs are typically die formed, fused and granulated in 22 karat gold and are frequently accented with gemstones.
"I am drawn to forms and shapes arising from both the natural and man-made worlds and I seem to store them as an internal inventory," explains the artist. "My work is about transforming these visual impressions into objects of beauty in gold, silver and precious gemstones.
My process is essentially intuitive and I fabricate directly in the metals without sketches. Then I work responsively to form pieces from an array of the metals and stones. Much like ancient jewelry artists, many of my pieces are made by using a mouth torch to fuse heavy layers of gold and sterling silver. One piece informs the next. Invariably, the pieces evolve into greater complexity from the original idea.
My artistic satisfaction lies in the capture of often-contradictory relationships combined with my love of hand-making and the manipulation of materials. The pieces, in turn, take on lives of their own as I name them and speak about them to my clients and those who inquire about my work. Of great significance is the collaboration between maker and wearer; I don't consider my work finished until it finds its home with the wearer."
Judith is the recipient of many honors, including juried 'Excellence in Jewelry' awards at the Philadelphia Museum of Art Craft Show, the Smithsonian Craft Show and the American Craft Council show. Most recently, she won best of show at the Smithsonian Craft2Wear Show. She has been awarded commissions for commemorative pieces to mark the opening of the Frank Gehry designed Weisman Art Museum in Minneapolis and recognition pieces for the National Association of Women Judges.


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Being the parent of a child who is both medically fragile and has special needs, it is sometimes really hard to see the silver lining in life. While some days things are great and you can smile and laugh and almost feel like a normal person, other days you just fall into a well of confused self deprecation where it seems there is no end in sight to the monotony and drudgery that has become your life.
It makes it all the harder when you are constantly seeing reminders of the life that you're missing out on... family and friends with their 'normal' children who are running and babbling and playing... and it really drives into your heart that your child is just not the same as other children.
Last Friday for instance... I found myself babysitting my niece and my two nephews. To put this in perspective, my niece is 8 months older than my oldest child. My oldest nephew is 4 months older than my middle daughter, and my youngest nephew is 4 months older than Nicola.
Given their close proximity in age it's only natural that the children are all friends and play well together... that is, all except Nicola.
Where my nephew is off running and playing with cousins and siblings, babbling away, eating everything in sight and generally just being a totally typical terrorising toddler, Nicola is completely immobile. She doesn't even sit unaided. She doesn't talk, she doesn't walk, she doesn't run... and the limit to her interaction is, or at least it was, crying at anyone that so much as breathes in the same hemisphere as her.
Seeing him, and every other toddler around us, meet their milestones, take their first steps, say their first words etc, while we struggle to achieve even the tiniest of tiptoes forward is, to say the very least, heartbreaking.
Don't get me wrong, I don't begrudge their happiness with their healthy children. Not at all! And while I wouldn't give Nicola up for anything in the world or change anything about her, I wouldn't wish this kind of life on anyone, least of all on the days that the silver lining has gone an ugly shade of black.
But every now and then, through the darkest, cloudiest and most miserable days, children like Nicola have this way of surprising us... just when we need it most.
About a month ago we had a massive breakthrough in her communication... she looked at me and she said "Mum. Mum, Mum, Mum." Of course, to say I was ecstatic was the understatement of the century... until we told her speech therapist who heard a similar sound and told us that it was just a random convergance of sounds made as she chewed on her fingers... and it wasn't really a word at all.
One step forward, two steps back.
But then, last week, something amazing happened. It was clear, it was concise and it was almost precise. She picked up her hand and she waved.
Ok, so she's almost two. I get that... waving for a two year old isn't a big deal...
But for MY two year old, it's a mammoth step! It's phenomenal! It's more of an achievement than man's first steps on the moon or the discovery of the theory of relativity.
MY two year old daughter waved! She picked up her hand and waved! She communicated with me!
Between the tears I waved back, delighting in the furious little movements of her hand pummelling up and down and the gorgeous smile on her face, the pride in her own achievements mirroring the pride I had for her.
Thinking quick I whipped out my phone and started the video recorder, getting a gorgeous clip of her waving and smiling at me. Then, just was I was about to stop, she did something else.
She responded to my waving to her by signing 'good waving' to me in Makaton.
She used her finger instead of her thumb, and it wasn't entirely as precise as it could have been, by the message was so clear even my father knew what she was saying. "Good waving Mum. I'm proud of you!"
Thursday, July 22, 2010
Posted by Crazy Mamma at 2:41 PM
1 comment:
- Jules363 said...
How lovely!! I hear you, my 2yo (Georgia obviously) doesn't sit unaided either, and pretty much doesn't do anything. Certainly nothing that other kids her age do. But she is trying to sign "finished" in Makaton. She can't quite make the right sign out of her fingers, but she does her own version. The first sign that communication with her will be possible! It was the best thing ever. I can only dream about "mum". So happy for you!
- July 22, 2010 at 4:51 PM
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Sunset Gardens is a modest, cozy hotel with stunning views of St. Thomas and Charlotte Amalie bay in particular. The hotel includes a swimming pool and concierge services, and its guestrooms are wll equipped and rang in size from studios to three bedroom suites.
Found at 11-4 Contant Crown Mountain, this apartment building is a little more than a mile (approximately two kilometers) west-northwest of the center of Charlotte Amalie.
More details here.
With only a few rooms available to guests at the family-owned Mafolie Hotel, the feel of highly personalized service and exclusivity is brought to life. Located on St. Thomas in the U.S.
Found at 7091 Estate Mafolie, this hotel is a short distance (about a kilometer) to the north-northwest of the center of Charlotte Amalie.
Additional info available here.
Bellavista Bed and Breakfast is a small, cozy B&B with four bedrooms located on Denmark Hill, a five-minute walk from the red-roofed town of Charlotte Amalie. Bellavista Bed and Breakfast is adamant about making guests truly feel comfortable and at home and provides some extra amenities often not found at a B&B including a swimming pool with sundeck, concierge service, and Wi-Fi.
Head a short distance to the west-northwest from the center of Charlotte Amalie to reach this B & B, which is located at 2713 Murphy Gade.
Read additional details here.
The Crystal Palace stands as a monument to the initial outlandish prosperity of the merchants of the island of St. Thomas island. The scope of this mansion turned bed and breakfast is enough to grab the eye without the glass sash windows that give it the image of being a true crystal palace.
From Bellavista Bed and Breakfast, go within walking distance south-southeast to reach this B & B.
Find additional information here.
Old Dutch-style architectural details create a charming atmosphere at the Bunker Hill Hotel on St. Thomas' historic district of Charlotte Amalie. The friendly staff and casual ambiance of the hotel greets guests with a charming island attitude and strive to make their stay comfortable and relaxing.
Interested visitors will be able to find this B & B at 7A Commandant Gade, less than a mile away from the center of Havensight.
Click for more information.
The Galleon House Bed & Breakfast is a small hotel know for its personalized service and warm hospitality, which ensures every guest enjoys a comfortable stay. Located on the beautiful island of St. Thomas, close to many of the area's top attractions, guests are always close to fine dining, entertainment, and beaches.
Travel a short distance from Bunker Hill Hotel to reach this B & B, which is located at 31 Kongen Gade.
Visit this page for full details.
If it's a pirate's life for you, then a stay at the Inn at Blackbeard's Castle should be on your bucket list. Located in Charlotte Amalie on the United States Virgin Island of St. Thomas, this spot provides an elegant reprieve from daily life that ties in the pirate theme with cannons and pirate statues throughout the property.
Make your way a short distance from Galleon House Bed & Breakfast to get to this hotel, which is situated at 1001 Blackbeard's Hill.
Click for further info.
The Green Iguana Hotel is an value-priced hotel just outside of Charlotte Amalie. The hotel has received lots of positive attention from critics and guests for the beautiful views of the sea and harbor and the attentive, caring staff.
Go a short distance from The Inn at Blackbeard's Castle to reach this hotel.
View here for more details.
Hotel 1829 was, naturally, built back in 1829 as one of the largest home in King's Quarter in Charlotte Amalie and still retains much of its amazing history like original floors in the dining room, an incredible original stained glass window called "In Search of the Promised Land," hand-painted and terra cotta tiles, and massive chess pieces three centuries old.
Situated in downtown Charlotte Amalie, this hotel is located within walking distance from The Green Iguana Hotel.
Additional details available here.
Formerly Holiday In St. Thomas, The Windward Passage Hotel is full of amenities, including a spa, swimming pool, restaurant, bar, and dancing. The hotel offers standard guestrooms as well as larger studio suites that feature extras like free Wi-Fi and movies and video games on-demand, and the entire hotel enjoys lovely views of the harbor of Charlotte Amalie.
Travelers can find this hotel in downtown Charlotte Amalie, within walking distance from Hotel 1829.
Full details available here.
Set in a building built in 1803 as the barracks for the personal guard of the Danish colonial governor, this cozy bed and breakfast is located in the oldest part of town. Surrounded by beautiful historic buildings and featuring a gorgeous view of the St. Thomas Harbor, it features a warm atmosphere that provides guests with a relaxing stay and a sense of home.
This B & B is located at 1680 Dronningens Gade, and is a short distance from Windward Passage Hotel.
Click to read further information.
Placed above Charlotte Amalie, the Miller Manor guest house features amazing views framed by a 150 year old Danish Manor. The architecture takes advantage of island's trade winds and views of the town and harbor.
Found at 2527 Prindsesse Gade, this hotel is located only 0.6 miles (1.0 km) from the center of Charlotte Amalie.
Full details available here.
Bluebeard's Castle has a truly astonishing pedigree- a fortress from the 17th century, an ex-governor's residence, serene hilltop real estate with startlingly gorgeous vistas of the local town and harbor, and proximity to some of the best restaurants and shopping in the Virgin Islands. With all of this and more going for it, combined with a mutil-million dollar renovation underway, Bluebeard's Castle resoundingly sets itself apart from other hotels.
Situated in the city of Charlotte Amalie, this resort is located a quarter mile (a half kilometer) from the center of Charlotte Amalie.
View here for additional info.
This map displays the approximate location of 13 accommodations in Charlotte Amalie.
To zoom into a close-up view of a specific location, or to read more concerning individual places, click on parts of the map that interest you. Another alternative is to interact with the map using the following table. To do so, click on the colored map dot shown in the far left column, or you can click on the location, described in the last column.
|Click to Show
|Name (Click to Read Article)
|Area/Vicinity (Click to Show on Map)
|At Home in the Tropics Bed & Breakfast
|Downtown Charlotte Amalie
|Bellavista Bed and Breakfast
|Downtown Charlotte Amalie
|Bluebeards Castle
|0.5 mi. East of Downtown Charlotte Amalie
|Bunker Hill Hotel
|Downtown Charlotte Amalie
|Galleon House Bed & Breakfast
|Downtown Charlotte Amalie
|Hotel 1829
|Downtown Charlotte Amalie
|Mafolie Hotel
|0.6 mi. North of Downtown Charlotte Amalie
|Miller Manor
|0.4 mi. West of Downtown Charlotte Amalie
|Sunset Gardens
|0.9 mi. West-Northwest of Downtown Charlotte Amalie
|The Crystal Palace
|Downtown Charlotte Amalie
|The Green Iguana Hotel
|0.4 mi. North-Northeast of Downtown Charlotte Amalie
|The Inn at Blackbeard's Castle
|0.3 mi. Northeast of Downtown Charlotte Amalie
|Windward Passage Hotel
|Downtown Charlotte Amalie
Help us improve! We welcome your corrections and suggestions.


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Below you will find summaries of Friday prayer sermons given this month that encourage people to oppose systems of oppression and establish social justice. Why? See my post: Preaching Justice.
Summaries will resume the weekend of September 7, God willing.
"Foil 'Divide & Conquer' By Forging Unity, Ending Fanatacism"
By Imam Muhammad Asi of the Islamic Center of Washington
Friday, August 24, 2012
If humanity wants to prosper, people should celebrate their differences and not allow mischief-makers to turn them into forces of division, bigotry and bloodshed.
A growing number of countries (most recently Syria) are on fire as those seeking to maintain hegemony over the world and its resources aim to do so by exploiting religious divisions (Sunni vs Shia, Muslim vs Christian/Jewish) and inciting hatred and mayhem.
"No one is telling you, me and the public that there are common enemies, intelligence agencies, mercenaries, informers, paramilitaries and even special operations forces in the thick and thin of what they want to become lasting divisions among the Muslims," Imam Muhammad Asi told his congregation.
But God and Prophet Muhammad (S) warned us of these obstacles to progress and instructed us to stay calm, collected and united.
God: "And hold fast, all of you all together, to the rope of God and be not divided amongst yourselves." (Quran 3: 103)
Prophet Muhammad (S): "All people are God's family. The most beloved by God is the one who is of most service to His family."
"If we can't acquire accurate information and immunize ourselves by what God and His Prophet are telling us, then we are going to fall into the abyss they have prepared for us--all of us," Asi warned.
Asi said there have always been fanatics and extremists in every generation of mankind and they cannot be supported and allowed to destroy society through their false interpretations of Divine scripture.
"Differences? We have differences," Asi said. "We are not carbon copies of each others."
"It's part of our creation to acknowledge differences. But these differences should never-ever become a matter of justification for wars and bloodshed and mayhem and divisions in society."
Asi said the scholar most Muslim extremists refer to, Ibn Taymiyyah of the fourteenth century, actually demonstrated love for and unity with others.
For example, he took offense when the Mongol invaders only agreed to free the Muslim prisoners.
"Ibn Taymiyyah said, 'No, if you are going to release the prisoners you are going to release all of them, the Christians and Jews along with the Muslims,'" according to Asi.
God says: "And the servants of The Merciful are the ones who walk with ease on earth and if they are addressed by the ignorant they say, "Peace!" (25:63)
"This is the epitome of confidence that comes from a will power that doesn't negotiate, that doesn't hide, that doesn't apologize for its principles," Asi said.
Asi said Muslims should be building these types of personalities and not just structural buildings. After all, Prophet Muhammad (S) did not build any mosques for the first 13 years of his mission.
"He wasn't concerned with the types of issues today's Muslims are concerned with," Asi said. "Look how many mosques we have in the world. But do we have strong Muslims who can walk into these mosques?"
Meet Imam Asi, author of The Ascendant Quran, the first exegesis (tafsir) of the Holy Book directly into English, at the ISNA Convention in Washington on Labor Day weekend (Aug. 31-Sept. 3). Booth #215
"Uprooting Zionism Will Bring Justice For All"
By Imam Muhammad Asi of the Islamic Center of Washington
Friday, August 17, 2012
After fasting for four weeks to gain proximity to God, Muslims should emerge from the month of Ramadan with the courage to speak the Divinely-ordained truth to power: The Zionist occupation of Palestine must end for social justice to prevail on earth.
"Justice cannot be done in this world as long as the Zionist, racist, expansionist occupation of the Holy Lands persists," Imam Muhammad Asi said in his sermon on Al-Quds Day, commemorated worldwide on the last Friday in Ramadan to express solidarity with all those suffering under oppression, in particular, the Palestinians.
Asi said it is God who exposes the Zionists as the source of world-wide oppression (social injustice, political scheming, military wars, economic plundering).
"And we conveyed to the Children of Israel in the Scripture that, 'You will surely cause corruption on the earth twice, and you will surely reach [a degree of] great haughtiness.'" (Quran 17: 4)
"God speaks about a topic humans don't have the courage to speak about," Asi said. "Our Scripture has not been corrupted. Our problem is God's words are there but our minds are corrupted."
"God revealed His words to be hidden?" Asi asks. "I hide it? I don't say it? I don't explain it? I don't expose the crimes against humanity?"
Asi said Zionism is not confined to the Holy Lands but "has its tentacles stretched throughout the world," thanks to the support of the governments in Washington and Saudi Arabia and the Zionist control of religious institutions, whether Jewish, Christian or Muslim.
To prevent the people of the Middle East from rising up against it, adherents of Zionism (including the regime in Saudi Arabia) are stirring up sectarian strife in country after country, most recently in Syria, according to Asi.
"These Zionists pit Muslim against Muslim and spread this fitna (disunity and infighting) through the Muslim world so Muslims kill Muslims," Asi said. "And they can sit back and watch this scenario and laugh all the way to the military-industrial-banking complex out of which they are making a killing out of our killings."
But Asi says Zionism will eventually face defeat.
"It is going to take the free souls that are liberated from the shackles of their lies and fabrication, souls that can breathe freedom, dignity and justice with every breath that is taken to bring an end to the problem that seems unable to go away."
Meet Imam Asi, author of The Ascendant Quran, the first exegesis (tafsir) of the Holy Book directly into English, at the ISNA Convention in Washington on Labor Day weekend (Aug. 31-Sept. 3). Booth #215
"Freeing Ourselves This Ramadan"
By Imam Muhammad Asi of the Islamic Center of Washington
Friday, August 10, 2012
True freedom can only be achieved by taking control of our carnal desires in conformance with God's rules so we can free our societies from oppression.
By abstaining from food, drink and other pleasures while fasting in Ramadan, Muslims receive annual training on the strengthening of will power over animal instincts, which is needed to establish just societies in accordance with God's dictates.
"Are we ingesting hunger, thirst and deprivation so we can expel them from our societies?" asked Imam Asi during his Friday sermon.
Only by keeping our individual selfish desires in check can we build a society that is prosperous for all.
Prophet Muhammad (S) demonstrated the importance of this by relating a story of the traveler on a boat. This passenger was barred from drilling a hole under his seat to obtain water more efficiently because it would have brought the whole ship down.
"This is not a jungle," Asi said. "If you want to do something that is easy for you but is going to destroy society you don't have the freedom to do that."
While trying to establish justice in society, those seeking it will face resistance.
According to the Quran, it is only those able to overpower their base desires who will overcome the enemy:
On his way to fight the oppressive Goliath, for example, Saul (Talut in Arabic) forbade his soldiers from drinking water from the river. Just a handful who had control over their desires complied, and it was this small cadre who went on to defeat Goliath with God's help.
"When Saul set forth with the enemies, he said: 'God will test you at the stream. If any drinks of its water, he goes not with my army. Only those who taste not of it go with me. A mere sip out of the hand is excused. '
But they all drank of it except a few. When they crossed the river, he and the faithful ones with him, they said, 'This day we cannot cope with Goliath and his forces.' But those who were convinced that they must meet God said, 'How oft by God's will, has a small force vanquished a big one? God is with those who steadfastly persevere." (Quran 2: 249)
"When we deny our lower instincts, we invite the company of God," Asi said. "And if you are out to defeat an enemy, the enemy will be defeated."
Those opposed to the freedom, independence and prosperity of countries in the Muslim world are currently focused on inciting sectarianism and violence in countries like Syria.
"The Imperialist Zionists have bleeding hearts now for Syria?" Asi questioned. "Remember, they are responsible for the carnage in Iraq and Afghanistan and other places. They are on both sides. They want this bloodletting to continue."
Asi said the Saudi government (in cahoots with the American and Israeli governments) is funding the terror in Syria, and Sunnis and Shias must get to know one another, cooperate with one another and through unity defeat their enemies.
"Let's grow out of this individualism and let's take care of our social character," he concluded.
Click here to listen to Imam Asi's complete sermon.
Meet Imam Asi, author of The Ascendant Quran, the first exegesis (tafsir) of the Holy Book directly into English, at the ISNA Convention in Washington on Labor Day weekend (Aug. 31-Sept. 3). Booth #215
"Breaking Our Fast As One"
By Imam Muhammad Asi of the Islamic Center of Washington
Friday, August 3, 2012
Those who observe their fasts correctly this month should develop the affinity, will power and determination to together tackle the worldwide epidemics of hunger and starvation.
"If we are fasting as we should be fasting, we should be concerned with those billions of people with whom we are now sharing their life (of hunger)," Asi said during his sermon.
To challenge the unjust systems that perpetuate widespread deprivation, much resolve is needed and fasting helps us attain it.
During the competition between one's physical prowess and spiritual/motivational powers (morale, will power, determination) in Ramadan, it is the latter that gains strength and ought to become the guiding force.
"Our fasting is supposed to take us into the mess in world affairs so that we can sort it out when we qualify. We don't qualify by virtue of our muscular or military or material strength. We qualify because we have liberated our intentions. We have freed our will power and we can step into these world affairs and straighten them up."
That means we cannot be satisfied with feasting and gorging on fancy meals at the end of the day while others still go hungry.
"You want to fill your stomach and [the stomachs of] all those around you," Asi said. "We live in a human family and a worldwide neighborhood."
"Hunger becomes one. Thirst becomes one. Deprivation becomes one. And the breaking of this fast becomes one."
Unfortunately, too many Muslims fast in a traditional way, concentrating only on the individual benefits of daytime abstinence while neglecting its social aspects, according to Asi.
"It is ironic that some Muslim centers understand that they are required to defeat their desires and lusts and greed in their own selves but when we expand their horizons they can no longer see the lusts of people in power and the machinations of people in finance."
Asi says this is mainly because their mosque leaders hold wealth and power but neither merit nor virtuous characteristics. Too many are funded by the Saudi regime, which benefits from maintaining the status quo and is even planning "wars that will make rivers of blood flow in Muslim countries," says Asi.
Asi has a few parting words for them:
"Our combined will being nurtured in this month of Ramadan shall overcome your swords, your bombs, your militaries and your intelligence agencies."
Click here to listen to Imam Asi's complete sermon.


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The Avenue June Round #1
June round of the Avenue Event is open until the 20th and is filled with great deals.
Petite Mort
Nailed It
Petite Mort- Drkwash Patch Bellbottom Jeans
Petite Mort- Peridot Fringe bikini top
PinkRayne: Sweetpea dress, mint MAIT
Nailed It - Neon Set - Colors
I'm also wearing:
*PC* Cherry Necklace & Earrings for Lost & Found until June 15th.
*PC* The Cherry Hat for The Chapter Four
from June, 4-30th
Your Limo.
Styling Card:
Locations; Baja Shore & Orchard Heights
Poses by Glitter Poses for SWANK June Round, Ava Set
EarthStones Morgan Leather Bracelet - Basics
Eudora 3D Elvira Heels (Slink High) Brown
TRUTH / KareI
Vanity Hair:Same Girl-Greedy for Shiny Shabby
Zibska Ceara Lelutka Applier
Zibska Riva Lelutka Applier


text:
Posted By Seamus Barton
Holiday Mailing Solutions
With Christmas only two weeks away, now is the time to get your holiday mailings into Canada Post.
If you have holiday cards and packages to be delivered before our fast-approaching merriest date, today might be the last day to do so.
This is not to say that all holiday mailing inducted to Canada Post after today will arrive later than Christmas day. A lot of last-minute mailing will indeed beat the clock—as postal services have geared up for our busiest season yet. As a safeguard, however, this is the final day to secure a Canada Post guarantee for pre-December 25th deliveries.
Fortunately for those of us running behind, this deadline mainly refers to direct mail sent as regular mail. For all scrambling well-wishers who need a little more time to add those final festive touches, let us remind you of Canada Post's alternative mailing solutions, available all-year-round:
Expedited Parcel – delivers in 1-7 days / $100 liability coverage / tracking and delivery confirmation
Xpresspost – delivers in 1-2 days / $100 liability coverage / tracking and delivery confirmation
Priority™ – delivers the next day / $100 liability coverage / tracking and delivery confirmation / request signature
Click the link below for a detailed chart of Canada Post's direct mailing and shipping categories:


text:
Verbasef allows you to input (subsections of a) file, print them in verbatim mode, while automatically breaking up the inputted lines into pieces of a given length, which are output as figures. These figures are posted using the [H] specification, which forces LaTeX to place the figure at the spot of invocation, rather than floating the figures to the top of the next page.
The package requires the verbatim, here and vrbexin packages.
The author is Paul Thompson.
License: gpl Version: 1.1 Catalogued: 2008-02-03


text:
1 cup Powdered Sugar
2 tsp Milk
2 tsp Corn Syrup
Food Coloring
Stir together sugar and milk until smooth. Beat in corn syrup and almond extract until icing is smooth and glossy. If too thick, add more corn syrup.
23 Wednesday May 2018
1 cup Powdered Sugar
2 tsp Milk
2 tsp Corn Syrup
Food Coloring
Stir together sugar and milk until smooth. Beat in corn syrup and almond extract until icing is smooth and glossy. If too thick, add more corn syrup.
23 Wednesday May 2018
This is my all time favorite dough for cookie cutter cookies. I've removed the baking soda, baking powder and reduced the sugar for a tender yet firm texture that holds its shape in the oven perfectly. Please be aware that this cookie has less sugar assuming that it will be paired with icing or jam. Serves: 36 (2- to 2 1/2-inch) cookies
1 cup (2 sticks) Unsalted Butter, softened
1 cup Granulated Sugar
1 Egg
3 cups AP Flour
½ tsp Salt
1 tsp Vanilla Extract
½ tsp Almond Extract
Preheat oven to 375º F. Line cookie sheets with parchment paper or a nonstick baking mat.
1. Cream together butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes. Add egg and mix until well-combined.
2. Stir in flour, salt, vanilla and almond extract.
3. For Rolled Cookies: Divide dough in half. Roll each half ¼-1/2" thick between two sheets of parchment paper. Put into freezer. Repeat with the other half of dough. Leave in freezer for approximately 10 minutes. Once firm, remove, cut into desired shapes with cookie cutter. Place on cookie sheet.
4. For Drop Cookies: Scoop or create balls between palms. Place on cookie sheet and freeze for 12-15 minutes before baking.
5. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes or until lightly browned at the bottom. The goal is to not let the top or edges brown at all.
For icing, go to Cookie Icing recipe.
24 Friday Nov 2017
Posted Cookies, Uncategorizedin
I love chocolate chip cookies. I cannot say that enough. Here is my favorite version. I pack it with three kinds of chocolate and add a hint of maple which I started using decades ago. It really gives a lovely undertone that only maple can bring.
Preheat oven to 375° before putting cookies in the oven.
2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup oatmeal
1 cup organic vegetable shortening OR (2 sticks) butter, softened*
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup packed brown sugar
2 tsp maple extract or 1 Tbsp maple syrup
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 large eggs
1 1/2 cup white chocolate chips
1 1/2 cup milk chocolate chips
1 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
1 cup chopped nut if desired
Combine flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt and oatmeal in small bowl. On medium-high beat shortening, granulated sugar, brown sugar, maple and vanilla extract in mixer bowl until creamy. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Lower the mixer speed and gradually pour in flour mixture. Now add oatmeal and chips.
Bake the sheet in the middle of the oven for 14 minutes or until tops aren't glistening. (It's best to bake one sheet at a time. Baking times vary from oven to oven.) Cool on baking sheets for 2 minutes; remove to wire racks to cool completely.
*I prefer organic vegetable shortening instead of butter. It's healthy (unlike the old shortenings) and doesn't make the cookies spread out and flatten as much.
Pumpkin Spice Chocolate Chip Cookies: Add 1 1/4 tablespoon pumpkin spice and reduce maple extract to 1 teaspoon (maple syrup to 2 tsp).
by Chef Robert Teddy
24 Friday Nov 2017
I love chocolate chip cookies. I cannot say that enough. Here is my favorite recipe converted to gluten-free. I pack it with three kinds of chocolate and add a hint of maple which I started using decades ago. It really gives a lovely undertone that only maple can bring. People have said that it's even better than the gluten version. Well, OKAY!
Preheat oven to 375° before putting cookies in the oven.
2 1/4 cups Brown Rice Flour Mix (see below)
1 1/4 teaspoon xanthan gum
1 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon baking powder
3/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup oatmeal
1 cup organic vegetable shortening or softened unsalted butter*
1 1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup packed brown sugar
2 teaspoons maple extract or 1 Tbsp maple syrup
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 large eggs
1 1/2 cup white chocolate chips
1 1/2 cup milk chocolate chips
1 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
1 cup chopped nut if desired
Combine flour mix, baking soda, baking powder, xanthan gum and salt in small bowl. On medium-high beat shortening, granulated sugar, brown sugar, maple extract and vanilla extract in mixer bowl until creamy. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Lower the mixer speed and gradually pour in flour mixture. Now add oatmeal and chips.
Bake the sheet in the middle of the oven for 14 minutes or until tops aren't glistening. (It's best to bake one sheet at a time. Baking times vary from oven to oven.) Cool on baking sheets for 2 minutes; remove to wire racks to cool completely.
*I prefer organic vegetable shortening instead of butter. It's healthy (unlike the old shortenings) and doesn't make the cookies spread out and flatten as much.
Pumpkin Spice Chocolate Chip Cookies: Add 1 1/4 tablespoon pumpkin spice and reduce maple extract to 1 teaspoon (maple syrup to 2 tsp).
BROWN RICE FLOUR MIX (Increase amounts proportionally as desired)
Brown Rice flour (extra fine) 2 cups
Potato Starch (not potato flour) 2/3 cup
Tapioca Flour 1/3 cup
by Chef Robert Teddy
28 Monday Dec 2015
Posted Confectionsin
These little jewels are wonderful for festive gifts and parties. Creamy chocolate center highlighted by dark chocolate liqueur, then rolled in cocoa powder. You can definitely be creative with the inside additions (ie nuts, raspberry flavoring, etc.) and also with the outside coating. For instance, consider dusting with edible glitter for a sparkling bling effect from chefrubber.com.
30 Friday Oct 2015
Posted Holidayin
Things you need:
Cooking spray
4 16-to-18-ounce boxes pound cake mix to make two Bundt® cakes
2 3-ounce boxes lime gelatin
3 16 -ounce tubs dark chocolate frosting
1/2 16 -ounce tub white frosting
Black food coloring
20+ pieces each yellow, orange and red gummy fruit slices
10 colorful gummy worms
5-8 white gumball/candy eyeballs
2 chocolate-covered doughnuts
4 bamboo skewers or toothpicks
12+ Cupcakes for around cauldron (optional)
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Coat Bundt® pan with cooking spray. Combine two cake mixes and pour batter into the pan. Bake and cool as directed. Repeat for the second Bundt® cake. Meanwhile, prepare the gelatin as directed.
Level the domed tops of the cakes with a long serrated knife and set aside for later. Now slice each Bundt® cake in half horizontally. Place the bottom of the first Bundt® cake on a flat serving dish or cake cardboard. Spread a thin layer of black frosting between the two sections of the bottom Bundt® cake and join together. Spread a thin layer of frosting on top of the cake and place the second Bundt® cake upside-down on top. Spread frosting between the top two layers of the top Bundt® cake (like the bottom cake). Spread frosting on top of the stacked cakes, take the best looking dome cake top and place on top, upside-down. Remove from refrigerator. Cut and scoop out the center of the top cake layer, about 6 inches wide and 2 inches deep. Cover the inside of the hole with the white frosting. Freeze for about 30 minutes.
Dye the remaining chocolate frosting black. Cover the exposed cake with a thin layer of black frosting; freeze about 20 minutes, then cover with the remaining frosting, filing in any indents to make a smooth surface. Return the cake to the freezer.
Once the gelatin is firm, stir until clumpy. Return to the refrigerator until ready to serve.
Prepare the flames by slicing the gummy fruit in half to resemble flames. Either press the flames around the bottom of the cake or stand them up on a dozen or so red cupcakes and place around the bottom of the cake (as shown). Cut off one-half of each doughnut. Mark where the doughnuts will be placed for handles, then insert a bamboo skewer or toothpick where the doughnut ends touch the cauldron, allowing only an inch to show. Dab the doughnut ends with some of the frosting and slide the doughnuts into place. Add the gelatin, gummy worms and eyeballs just before serving.
Chef Robert Teddy
07 Thursday May 2015
Haunted by the luscious taste of my chef grandmother Viola's dark chocolate cake that only chocoholic dreams are made of, I've spent many years testing chocolate cake recipes with varying results. I've come close but not exact. Then by a streak of fate I found it scribbled faintly on the back of an obscure recipe card…this was the same cake that was a favorite of Governor Warren Green of South Dakota where she presided over the kitchen in the early 1930's. This cake is beautifully dense, moist and bakes more evenly in a slow oven. This recipe has become a standard, go-to for me.
Before you begin, preheat the oven to 300° (275° if using convection). Prepare your pans with butter/cooking spray and line the bottoms with parchment paper.
Makes two 8×3-inch baking pans or one 12×3-inch round or square pan.
2 1/2 cups cake flour
1 tablespoon baking soda
2/3 cup water
3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/4 cup vanilla
2 1/3 cups sugar
1 pound unsalted butter, room temperature
12 eggs
12 ounces dark chocolate* (65% to 85% cocoa), pieces or batons
*The original recipe calls for unsweetened chocolate. I prefer a slightly sweeter taste. Use your discretion.
Sift the flour and baking soda together in a bowl and set aside. Put the chocolate pieces/batons in a microwavable bowl and heat on high for 15 second spurts, stirring briefly between each time until thoroughly melted. Set aside.
In a small saucepan bring the water to a boil and pour into a bowl on the counter. Add the cocoa powder and vanilla, whisking swiftly until it is smooth with no lumps. Set aside to cool.
In the bowl of an electric mixer, add the butter and mix on medium speed for approximately 3 minutes. Add the sugar and mix until the batter is fluffy, about 3 minutes more. Now add the eggs one at a time. Scrape down the sides at least once.
Add the bowl of melted chocolate pieces/batons and continue mixing for 1 minute to incorporate. Reduce the speed to low and alternate adding the flour and cocoa mixtures. When completely combined, pour into the prepared pans.
Bake the 8-inch pans for 60-70 minutes; 12-inch pan up to two hours. To test when ready, the top of the cake will spring back when touched or insert a toothpick which should come out free of batter or crumbs. (FYI, top cracks and pulling away from the side both indicate doneness. Beware of over-baking.)
12 ounces (340 g) heavy cream
1 lb (454 g) semisweet or bittersweet dark pieces/batons
1 tablespoon glucose (or corn syrup)
Pour the chocolate pieces/batons into a metal bowl and set aside. Add the heavy cream to a saucepan and bring to scalding. (You can microwave instead in 15 second spurts, stirring briefly between each time until scalding.) Pour this over the chocolate and let rest for 30 seconds. Now stir thoughtfully until fully blended. (Stirring quickly or whisking will add air, creating an abundance of bubbles which you do not want.) Stir in the glucose (for shine). This is where you can add alcohol-to-taste such as rum, grand marnier, bourbon, Cointreau, kirsch, etc. Keeping stirring the liquid for a few minutes to thicken slightly. You can then pour this over the prepared cake (glacé) or cover with plastic and let rest on the counter until thick enough for spreading (filling and frosting). This will take several hours.
Hack: To speed up the process, place bowl into a larger bowl of ice (an ice bath) and continue stirring. The chocolate ganache will start to solidify much faster. Do this several times until a smooth, spreadable consistency is reached. Note: If it becomes too thick, microwave for 10 second spurts on high until smooth. Be careful not to overmelt. This is where I like to turn my ganache into a whipped ganache by simply whisking vigorously till it turns to a light shade of chocolate and becomes fluffy. Fill the cake. You can then frost the cake with this OR for a chocolate glacé outside, pour a just-blended ganache over the top of a filled cake which is resting on a cookie rack on top of a plastic-lined baking tray.
TIP: No need to refrigerate ganache for several days since the milk has been sterilized.
#chocolatecake #chefrobertteddy #teddybearpastryhack
29 Sunday Jun 2014
Posted Sweet Breads & Bread Cakein
#bananabread #teddybearpastryhack
29 Sunday Jun 2014
Posted Pies & Tartsin
The secret to this perfect dough is vodka which adds moistness without aiding in gluten formation. Because the alcohol vaporizes when baked the result is a more tender and flaky crust. I'll also use cold juice instead of the cold water (a trick used by Chef Viola, my grandmother). Why add water when you have other flavor-adding liquids available! It's always best to keep the butter cold so after mixing it's best to chill for at least an hour before use. When chilled and ready to use, remove the wrapper and knead it a few times to soften slightly before rolling out.
Yield: 2 (10-inch) crusts
4 cups (24 oz) flour, divided
2 tablespoon sugar
1/2 cup (4 oz) ice water or vodka (add up to 1/4 cup more if dough is too dry to come together)
2 teaspoon salt
1 1/2 cups (12 oz) butter, chilled and cut into 1/4-inch pieces (using butter adds flavor)
1/2 cup (4 oz) vegetable shortening (using shortening or lard improves flakiness. Use butter if not available.)
Place 2 cups flour, sugar and salt in food processor. Pulse a few times to incorporate
Add the butter and shortening then pulse to combine.
Add remaining flour. Add the ice water a little at a time, pulsing between additions. Then let the blade run; dough will start to gather together. It should feel smooth, not sticky. If not, add more liquid.
Remove dough and form into a ball. Divide and pat the dough into two discs, wrap in plastic and refrigerate for 1 hour or up to a day. This will help the dough not to shrink during baking. After removing chilled discs, let warm slightly for 15 minutes. Before rolling, bang the disc with the roller a few times to loosen up. (FYI, if you're in a hurry you can skip chilling and just use it immediately.)
Note: If making only single crust, use half the ingredient amounts. Roll and line the pan, poke the bottom and sides with a fork, then put into refrigerator or freezer for 20 minutes. Pre-heat oven to 375 degrees. When ready, line shell with 15-inch parchment paper or foil and fill shell with pie weights or dried beans. Place on a sheet pan and bake for 20-30 minutes, or until very light golden brown.
*Using vodka instead of water increases the flaky texture since the alcohol evaporates.
Tricks to prevent a single crust from puffing during baking:
1. Take two identical metal pie pans. Put your pie shell in one of them, as usual. Put the second pie pan in the pie shell. Flip over and bake on a baking sheet.
2. Freeze it for 15 minutes before baking; it rarely puffs at all.
3. Line pastry with foil (bottom and up sides) and fill 1/3 with dry beans or lentils. Bake for 8 minutes. Remove foil/beans and bake 5 to 6 minutes more or until golden.
#piedough #chefrobertteddy #teddybearpastryhack
29 Sunday Jun 2014
Posted Pies & Tartsin
What is there to regret about pie? Blueberry pie? Well, nothing…except for when it's all gone. And I'll take the last slice, thank you very much! I've been focused on pie lately and my grandmother chef Viola could make them in her sleep; so tasty and out-of-this-world. Some say it's all in the crust…WRONG! To achieve pie orgasm (you heard me) takes a beautiful marriage of crust AND filling. But thankfully it's not rocket science. Only a little guidance is needed for the misguided to receive rave reviews.
The filling here is a combination of cooked and uncooked berries. This creates a lovely "pudding" texture, one which I prefer, that the berries float in. And by cooking out some of the juices the color really punches making it visually delicious. I've included a crumble which can be added to kick this American icon up a notch (see bottom of this page). Then there's the crust…you can refer to my Perfectly Perfect Pie Dough recipe for the secret to crust heaven.
While the pie dough is chilling, set your oven rack to the middle, preheat to 400° and make the filling:
1 cup sugar
3 tablespoons cornstarch
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup cold water
6 cups fresh blueberries, divided
1 tablespoon butter
2 tablespoon lemon juice
In a small bowl blend together sugar, cornstarch, salt and water until smooth. Pour into a saucepan over medium heat and add the remaining 3 cups blueberries. Mash most of them with a potato masher to release the juices. Then while stirring, bring to a boil; cook and stir for 2 minutes or until thickened and bubbly. Remove from the heat. Add butter, lemon juice and remaining berries; stir until butter is melted. Set aside.
Assembly: On a floured surface roll out the dough for the bottom of the pie to about a 12-inch circle. Before lifting, run a flat metal spatula (or counter scraper) under the dough to make sure that no part is sticking to your work surface. Trim off any edges that go beyond the circle, lightly flour the dough and fold over in half. Lift and place the dough in the pie pan, unfold and trim around the outside lip of the pan. Punch a few times around the bottom with a fork and pour in the blueberry filling, spreading it out and creating a mound.
Roll out the dough for the top. Wet the exposed lip of the bottom dough with water all around and, using the same folding technique, place the dough on top and gently press down the outside edge to seal to the lip. Create your edge and make a few slices on top to release the steam. Bake for 45 minutes. Remove and let cool before serving.
Tip: Pie edges tend to burn easily. To avoid, cut three 3-inch strips of aluminum foil, fold and crimp the short ends together and cover the pie's edge all around. Remove after 30 minutes of baking.
8 shortbread cookies, crushed
1/3 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup sugar
1 teaspoon cinnamon
3 tablespoons cold butter, unsalted and softened
Combine flour, sugar, cinnamon and butter and mix together with your fingers so that all the dry ingredients are absorbed by the butter. Stir in the shortbread cookies. Cover the bottom of the pie shell with 1/4 cup of the crumble mix. Pour in the blueberry filling. Sprinkle the remaining crumble over the top, spreading it out evenly. Finish with the top dough and bake.
#blueberrypie #teddybearpastryhack


text:
• It's a gigantic three-way clusterff&#k! Ticketmaster is reportedly investigating a merger with both Live Nation and AEG. No doubt future event-goers will be paying even more money in "convenience" charges to make up for legal fees. [New York Times]
• Public: Buy American! Um ... or European ... or Canadian. Please. [BBC]
• Swiss Re are to receive $2.6 billion from Warren Buffett's Berkshire Hathaway as "capital infusion." Hopefully this means they can build more food-inspired company buildings. May we suggest a building in Omaha, Nebraska, shaped like a bottle of A1? [New York Times]
• In what might be the strangest attempt yet to avoid restless leg syndrome, Australian customs seized a man alighting a plane from Dubai, with two live pigeons stuffed down his pants. The birds were wrapped in padded envelopes and held to his legs by a pair of tights. But whats worse—smuggling pigeons in your clothes or a man wearing tights? [BBC]
• The L.A. Galaxy might have scored an own-goal in letting David Beckham depart for his short spell in Milan. The Italian club have revealed their in talks to keep Golden Balls permanently. [The Guardian]
•And finally, has Nick Nolte been spending too much time browsing ComputerTan.com? [Perez Hilton]
Follow to get the latest news and analysis about the players in your inbox.See All Players


text:
SECTION 1: The Three Types of Energy
The fundamental basis for Magick (and all life) if a flow of force from
the Cosmos to the being that it is affecting. This concept is recognized
around the world as Mana (to the Huna of Hawaii), Chi/Ki to the Martial
arts masters of the East, Prana to the Sufis of India and so on. Many names
for the same basic force that grants life and changes the universe around
us. These forces are without "morals" as we see them, they are not good
nor are they evil, they simply are. This energy is measurable and perceptible
to the aware and/or trained mind, thus it can be defined and utilized.
There are three types of basic cosmic energy, all of which are a part of
how we interact with the Universe at large. The first I will discuss here
is the most basic of the three, Personal Energy.
The Human body has energy coursing through it from birth until death, when that energy is released and returns to the Source of All things. This energy flows along meridian lines within the body and can be drawn in or sent out, from certain locations along these meridians. These locations are known as the Chakras, as Chi Points, and other names, and regardless of what they are called or how they are viewed they, are the same locations universally. The hands, the feet, the 'third eye', etc., known the world over for their power.
It is this energy that you utilize when working without tools and without invoking Deity. This energy can be cultivated through meditation, exercise of the body and mind, and through healthy living. Examples of its use are best seen in the Martial Arts of the East. The Masters are capable of projecting their own chi into an opponent and into themselves for healing. When you charge an object with your energies you are projecting that same personal energy into that object, just as the Master would.
The second form of energy is environmental. This is the energy that flows from places and from things that are a part of nature. When you eat raw vegetables you ingest the life energy from that plant into yourself, thus amplifying your own. When herbs, crystals, incense or any other natural item are added to a ritual, you combine their intrinsic energy with your own for the purpose of achieving your goal. This energy is also known as Ley energy (ley lines), Dragon Lines (in Feng Shui) or Songline ( to the aborigines of Australia), places that are rich in this energy are empowering and places that are deficient in this type of energy are very bad for the person living there.
When you call upon the spirits of places (such as forests, rivers, etc.) you are calling upon the resident life energy in those areas and adding them to your own. There is ambient energy surrounding you at all times, it is the energy in the Air that we breath in that helps to sustain us.
The third type of energy is universal. This energy is known as Deity (god). When working a ritual and invoking Deity or any other Spiritual energy, you call upon this vast and limitless source of energy to help in your working. This is also the destination of most magical workings. You create the thought form (your purpose and intents) and send it to the universe to be created as They (Deity/Gods) see fit.
Now (with this basic understanding of the three energy types) you can visualize that the magician stand within a field of his own energy which is surrounded by the energy of his environment, and then circles one more time by the Universal energies. These three circles are all used in a proper ritual. To call upon your own energies (by themselves) is unwise, for it may drain you severely even with proper grounding of excess energy. The completion of most pagan/wiccan rites includes a small meal afterward. This is to help ground any excess energy you may have (as this can cause head aches, muscle pains and hyper activity) but it is also to help replenish your personal energy that was you do not become deficient (which is obviously unhealthy).
During Ritual you expend your energy as a part of focusing and directing the ritual energies that you have summoned. Here is where some people have a failing and do not realize it, they use too much of their own energy and not enough of the other two energies available to them. In proper ritual workings your energies are the catalyst, and not the process itself, you set the events in motion and are not consumed in the process. This proper working of magick can be visualized like this (see images at the bottom of the page): You are the match (personal energy) that lights the candle (environmental energy) that is used to light the bonfire (universal energies). Images like the cone of power are designed to focus the desired outcome until it is ready to be sent to the universe to become reality, and this is the extent you should have to expend your energies, summoning and focusing the other two.
SECTION 2: Cultivating and Replenishing Personal Energy
first type of Energy (personal) can be cultivated through the methods stated
above, now I will list a few exercises that , if done regularly, increase
ones personal energy. I will also teach a method of recharging ones personal
energy through tapping into Environmental energies. The first method of
cultivating more personal energies is through controlled Breath.
There is a rhythm to all things, the spinning of the Heavens, the beat of your heart, and to your Breathing. In this exercise breathing is done from the diaphragm and with a slow inflation of the lungs. This exercise is very simple and very relaxing. You start by breathing in for a count of 3 seconds ( no skimping it must be three full seconds), then holding for three seconds, then while controlling the exhale out for three seconds then another hold for three seconds afterwards. This cycle is repeated for however long the person feels needed to relax (5-15 minutes), all the while focusing on controlling the breath as much as possible. The hands may be placed in the lap palms up or lifted (palms up) from the lap on inhale and lowered to the lap (palms down) on exhale. You may visualize vibrant green energy being drawn in on the in breath if you wish. This exercise once done for a period of time ( no less than 2 weeks) can be increased to 4 second intervals, then ultimately up to 5 and even 6 seconds as the student progresses. One of the many benefits of this exercise is deeper relaxation and meditation, as well as stress reduction, all of which are conductive to an increased energy level over all.
Now while it is common to feel tired after a ritual it is not needed. You have done no more work than you would have otherwise, you only feel tired afterwards. Once you cultivate more personal energy and learn to not over exert yourself, you will find yourself less and less tired as time passes. There are , however, times when the work you do may be greater than you had been able to anticipate and you do feel tired afterwards. This next exercise is to help you replenish your energy and to prevent post- magickal malaise.
Sit in a comfortable position with your hand and arms relaxed in your lap. Breathe slowly in a 3-3 rhythm as mentioned before. Only this time visualize yourself sitting in a Sea of silvery, luminous energy that ebbs and flows in sync with your breathing. Visualize your whole area filled completely with this water like energy. On the in breath, see the energy filling your chest area with that silvery light, on the hold concentrate on forming that energy into a ball and on the exhale push the ball into your lower abdomen. On the last hold you visualize the energy being 'digested' by your body and see it coursing through your veins. Repeat this for a few minutes until you feel relaxed but invigorated, not fatigued. This should only take a minute or two to complete after you perform your grounding section of your ritual.
On To the Part Two!


text:
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So, the breaking news is that I have put a longtime dream into action and have had stamps manufactured! It's been a few weeks in the making, and I have many details to sort out, but I can now say for certain these will be available in the Etsy shop on September 15th.
So far there are two Christmas-themed designs, but I have so many more waiting in the wings, ready to be made, and so many ideas swirling around in my brain that I want to put into action.
If you know me at all, you know it is a bit odd for me to be thinking about Christmas in September, when there is Halloween around the corner. Despite my best intentions, I am
It feels a bit surreal sending these ladies out into the world, and I also find it more than a little unnerving putting my drawings out there and open to criticism. But I am looking forward to seeing what becomes of them, and happy to be able to share them with others.
Oh, and I also did not blog about another cardmaking video I posted on my YouTube channel, using the Tim Holtz Crazy Birds stamp set and Distress Inks.


text:
Careers at Affiliated Insurance Agencies
Thank you for your interest in exploring employment. We are a growing, full service Independent Insurance agency and a Acrisure Partner that always has interest in hiring people that have the knowledge and experience to help us continue our success.
To be considered for an interview you must have at least 5 years within an Independent agency system, licensed and in good standing with the Dept. of Insurance, reliable transportation and efficient in Word, Excel, Outlook and either AMS 360 or Applied.
We offer a full benefit package, competitive salaries and a clean, friendly and safe workplace.
For consideration, please submit..
1) a cover letter, 2) Employment Application (Fillable PDF format) and 3) resume including salary history.
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You will need ADOBE READER to fill out the PDF format Employment Application. ADOBE READER is a FREE and SAFE install.(Please be sure to UNCHECK the optional offer for McAfee Security Scan Plus located in the center of the web page on the first page)


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A Whitemarsh Township police officer who helped run the Plymouth Ambulance company, was arrested Wednesday and accused of stealing morphine.
Investigators used a hidden camera to catch Dominic Venezia, the Assistant Chief, in the act, according to a press release by the District Attorney's office.
The ambulance company's Chief of Operations noticed in early May that morphine was missing from the medical supply cabinet, which is inside a locked office.
When investigators looked at the handful of people who have card key access to the office, they noticed that Venezia had gone to the office and supply cabinet on multiple occasions, according to the District Attorney.
Investigators set up a hidden camera in the office and when more morphine disappeared, the video and the card key records pointed to Venezia, according to the D.A.
Venezia was confronted while on duty at the Whitemarsh police station and admitted he had a drug problem, investigators said. He was immediately removed from duty and placed on leave.
Venezia was arraigned on drug and theft charges.
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Obituary: The late Anton Ban Sweeney, Crickamore, Dungloe
Burtonport Parish lost one of its most popular and best known characters with the recent death of Anton Ban Sweeney, Crickamore, Dungloe, which took place in Letterkenny hospital.
Anton, who celebrated his 80th birthday on August 19th, had only been admitted to hospital before his sudden passing. A native of Crickamore, he was from a well known local family.
Like a lot more at the time, he emigrated to Scotland in his youth, before returning home with his wife Annie and family to reside permanently at Crickamore. A most industrious and hard working person, he worked in Boyle's laundry Dungloe for a period, he spent some years driving for Doherty Coaches, Dungloe.
He joined the staff of Arran Mara sea weed factory in1978 and gave great loyal service until he retired in 1998. Anton enjoyed farming and was always very proud of his crop of potatoes and vegetables. Anton could be described as a real community activist. He led the Crickamore band for a long number of years, and was one of best known leaders in the county.
In his teens he also played in the Dore band, he was one of the founder members of the Burtonport Bowling Club and was also a very accomplished card and dart player As a neighbour Anton had few equals, and often organised turf cutting and saving turf , for people who needed help at particular times. Anton would be called on to cut hair for people in the locality, and one of them was his close friend and neighbour Hughie Sweeney, Sheskinarone who is now 102 years.
Anton enjoyed sport, and always supported Glasgow Celtic F.C. and the G.A.A. county team. Crickamore and the surrounding area will be much the poorer by his passing, and his name will always be fondly remembered in the years to come.
His removal, wake and funeral was one of the largest seen in the area and bore testimony of the high esteem that Anton and his family are held. His funeral took place to Belcruit Cemetery, following mass in St Columba's church, Acres celebrated by Rev Fr Pat Ward P.P., Rev Fr Padraig O Baoil P.P, Gweedore and Rev Fr John J. Duffy C.C.
Readers at the mass were his son Pauric and his brother- in-law Pat The Cope Gallagher. Prayers of the faithful were read by Nancy and Christopher Walsh, Maeve Logue, Kevina McKelvey and Declan McGarvey. Relevant items were brought up to the altar, as a reflection of his life. Music was provided by St Columba's choir led by Joe Rodgers on guitar and a few numbers on the fife were rendered by Denis Edward Boner, Peter McGee, Brian Quinn ànd Michael McGonagle of the Crickamore band. There was also guards of honour by past and present members of the Crickamore band, the Burtonport Bowling Club and members of other Bowling Clubs.
He is survived by his wife Annie, sons Pauric and Kevin daughter Sinead, in-laws and a large circle of relatives and friends to whom deepest sympathy is extended. Months mind mass takes place in Acres church on Saturday 28th September at 6.30pm. "Slan leat a Anton, ar gCara dhilis. Is cinnte nach mbeidh do leitheid ann arais".


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GTHL Announces Rule Change for Body Checking at the "A" Level - March 2015
Click here to read announcement
OHF Removes Body Checking from Recreational Hockey
The Ontario Hockey Federation's (OHF) Minor Council met on Friday April 29th to discuss the minor programs and among the topics was body checking in recreational hockey.
The OHF Minor Council unanimously endorsed the following motion:
Effective the 2011 - 2012 season body checking will be removed from all age divisions of House League and House League Select hockey.
House League and House League Select make up the majority of the OHF playing membership. The majority of House League hockey was already non body checking, which made it practical to standardize the rule across the entire membership. The extension of this decision to House League Select was similarly practical since Select teams are formed out of House League registered hockey players.
The OHF continues to review the delivery of all levels of hockey in order to create a safe and fun environment for all of its participants. Removing body checking at House League and House League Select is a positive decision for player recruitment and safety.
The removal creates a safer environment for new players that join the game at any age to develop the fundamental skills of skating and puck handling without the concern of being intentionally hit by another player.
At the end of the day hockey is a sport intended to give health benefits and life lessons to participants, and the OHF wants to highlight these core attributes of the game. With this new rule change, more players and parents will feel safer in these leagues and bring the focus back to the basics of the 'good old hockey game'.
The OHF is one of three Hockey Canada Branches operating in the Province of Ontario and is the largest of all thirteen across Canada. The OHF is comprised of seven Member Partners and has a membership base that represents over forty percent of Hockey Canada.
Equipment and Clothing
Hockey Equipment List for new Players
Hockey Skates
CSA Approved Hockey Helmet with full Face Mask/Cage - must have sticker with current expiry date. No bicycle helmets permitted.
Neck Guard
Shoulder Pads
Elbow Pads
Hockey Gloves
Jock or Jill
Hockey Pants
Shin Pads
Hockey Socks (Practice)
Jersey (Practice)
Hockey Stick
Mouth Guard (The use of mouth guards is optional at the IP Level)
Goalie Equipment Loaning
Winter Season : 2015-2016
The Erindale Hockey Association has goalie equipment can be loaned to eligible players/teams for the entire hockey season. This is offered at no cost to the player or team.
If you have any questions about Erindale's goalie equipment or to make arrangements to borrow equipment please contact:
John Farace


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When lately refurbishing the house and choosing our choices for the brand new kitchen, we'd not given much considered to the kind of kitchen lights that needs to be installed. Initially, we centered on appliances and cabinet layouts. After talking to having a couple of kitchen design experts we learned it had become just like vital that you spend some time thinking about what kitchen lights to set up. I recognize now precisely how important they are and just what a positive change they've designed to the whole kitchen! I was so very happy to happen to be offered such excellent the aid of our professional kitchen planning expert, who not just helped us design the most wonderful kitchen around our space, additionally they gave excellent suggestions about probably the most superb kitchen lights which were eventually added. We are certain that they helped us to save cash developing a space within our home that's both helpful and delightful.
The Way I produced extra space with kitchen lights
Making certain the lighting fixtures are directing light towards the spots, which illuminates individuals subtle corners that otherwise could have been so dark and dismal, makes this type of impact on the quantity of use we've observed in the entire space.
Kitchen lights nowadays frequently include spectacular above cupboard lighting with a few great options to select from. For the kitchen, lengthy arm halogen lights spaced at regular times, were perfect, and also have demonstrated to become an important addition, specially when removing products towards the rear of the cabinets! Underneath the cupboards, above each one of the work spaces, we chose numerous evenly spaced halogen lights with triangular-formed glass covers that completely fan the light over the counter area.
Combine both of the aforementioned with perfectly positioned halogen ceiling lights, forwarded to probably the most generally used areas. This provided us a secure and well-lit atmosphere round the stove and over the sink and serving areas. Your kitchen lights used have grown to be an important accessory for the kitchen at home that people hope will give you satisfaction to the family for years to come.
The kitchen at home planner also requested us to think about a range of helpful options of sunshine boxes. These genuinely have been a great decorative accessory for your kitchen. The sunshine boxes are the same shape as deep shelving, emitting light through the entire shelf both above and below each box. With the addition of a couple of these, one over the other, not just were we in a position to illuminate formerly dark, wasted corners, we produced a helpful display areas for individuals carefully selected kitchen display products that people have a tendency to buy, but frequently finish up being put away within the cupboard.


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Discover twelve participatory initiatives that have successfully enhanced rural services in the new edition of the EAFRD Projects Brochure on 'Digital and Social Innovation in Rural Services'.
The projects highlight inspiring examples of how rural communities can respond to the challenges they face, using support under the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development (EAFRD) or other, innovative funding solutions.
The brochure has been informed by the broader ENRD thematic work on 'Smart Villages'.
For electronic and paper subscriptions to ENRD publications, please write to email@example.com.


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Genre: Fiction or Novels
Pages: 300
Author: S.M.Siddiqui.
After a grievous incident of 9/11, Nazeer was forced for training in Pakistani terror camps. He promises his mother to make Afghanistan unfettered from prejudice on the basis of religious & sexuality before going to training camps. And with this perception, will he become prime minister of his nation?


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As a world leading provider of speech productivity technology Winscribe supports businesses all over the globe with their requirements for digital dictation, digital transcription, voice recognition, and workflow management.
Winscribe is the largest supplier of digital dictation technology in the world with installations in 25 countries and more than 350,000 users globally. Winscribe provides solutions for a number of industries including Legal, Law Enforcement, Healthcare, Transcription, Surveying, Insurance and Government sectors and has a widespread global reach with strong customer presence in North America, Europe, Australasia, and South Africa.
Offices located in the USA, UK, New Zealand, Australia, and Switzerland and a network of more than 100 sales partners provide a global knowledge base that enables customers to successfully implement and maintain their Winscribe solution.
Winscribe was founded in 1995 by Amtel Communications, a privately held company in New Zealand. Winscribe quickly became recognized as an innovative and fast moving vendor in the dictation, transcription and workflow management market place. Since then, Winscribe has received widespread acknowledgement as an essential part of improved workflow and employee performance for government departments, hospitals, police forces and law firms globally. Winscribe puts a continuous effort on research and development to make sure that its offers not just meet customer requirements but exceed their expectations and therefore provide outstanding solutions.


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I wrote some time ago on my battles with food and how I got started on the road to become a healthier person. When I started this journey, I was completely sedentary, I was binge eating, I weighed 114kg and was a size 20 clothes. I was in the peak of my depression, my bipolar…… Continue reading Achieving Goals
Tag: Binge Eating Disorder
The Other Side of Food Struggles
N.B. This post is in no way belittling, dismissing, or ignoring eating disorders such as anorexia and bulimia. Please do not think I do not have love and sympathy for anybody suffering with these destructive diseases and know that I am very aware there is a severe lack of psychological support for them. This is merely…… Continue reading The Other Side of Food Struggles


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Hoorah for the end of the first semester! A short break from the University life. Ahh. Relaxation. haha. Anyways, these photos were taken by my (paid) 13 year old brother. We were going out and I wanted to wear something super comfy and I didn't really feel girly today, so, voila! this androgynous look. :)
The shirt is my brother's. It used to have…. http://strangerfromtheblock.blogspot.com/


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The Center for Partnership Studies (CPS) through its initiative, the Spiritual Alliance to Stop Intimate Violence (SAIV) offers a platform for strategic collaboration to end intimate violence that will contribute to the necessary cultural shift from the Dominator to Partnership model for family and social orientations.
Intimate Violence is a major global problem that engages faith communities for good or ill. Religious institutions have been both a problem and an important place for leadership toward ending intimate violence in the US and globally.
Expanding leadership capacity in faith communities: During a trauma, victims from rural, immigrant, and communities of color are five times more likely to seek the aid of clergy than any other professional.
Through SAIV, spiritual leaders and faith communities have an enhanced capacity, building on decades of faith-based expertise in training for the prevention and healthy response to violence.
About SAIV.org
This web site lifts up National and International interfaith leaders with decades of effective and powerful experience in providing tools for effective prevention and response to intimate violence within their own communities.


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Conan O'Brien's debut on TBS lacks luster but features facial hair -- and a lot of pent-up anger
A bit weirder and defiantly beardier, Conan O'Brien successfully transplanted his late-night talk show to basic cable network TBS on Monday night -- successfully, that is, if the goal was merely to relocate it brick for brick, format for format, piece by predictable piece. Without a trace of innovation or deviation from the original recipe, "Conan" was mainly guided by the idea that the people want what the people want.
Well, who knows what the people want? A desk, a band, a couple of movie stars? A sweet-looking old lady (who works at a Nutcracker museum) who is co-opted into a "first guest" sketch that ironically mocks her cute squareness? A full moon on the set's backdrop that O'Brien can move by remote control? All that and more.
O'Brien, who has turned 47 in the intervening lull of the so-called late-night wars, seemed confident Monday that his deep-seated, well-tweeted, still peeved-at-NBC niche crowd is a strong enough demographic to sustain his shtick elsewhere on the dial.
"This is an exciting night. I'm glad to be on cable -- truth is, I've dreamed of being a talk-show host on basic cable ever since I was 46," O'Brien joked in his opening monologue, after a sketch that compared his late-night debacles in early 2010 to a mafia hit instead of a walk-away deal in which O'Brien was reportedly paid tens of millions of dollars.
"And things are going well already," he continued. "I'm happy to report that we're already number one in TBS's key demographic: people who can't afford HBO."
Then, right after that, he said: "I'm going to be honest: It's not easy doing a late-night show on a channel without a lot of money and that viewers have trouble finding. So that's why I left NBC."
After all, he is not just Conan O'Brien, he is Coco now -- Coco unhinged, brandishing his usual Ivy-tinged snark and a guitar, jamming with his musical guest Jack White, which makes him just about the coolest cat of . . . 2003. The show's vibe felt just desperate enough (where was the coolness? The nonchalance?) to lead a viewer to wonder how long it will last this time.
There were also a lot of jokes about that. "People ask me why I named the show 'Conan,' " O'Brien said. "I did it so I'd be harder to replace." The first episode -- from opening sketch to monologue to banter with guests -- took every opportunity to make light of O'Brien's unlikely journey from network TV to cable in barely nine months, and the idea that it could all end at any minute.
O'Brien's banter with his loyal sidekick, Andy Richter, was more funny in that regard, as the two tried on rubber "Ex-Talk Show Host" Halloween masks in O'Brien's unlicensed visage. "It's very authentic," Richter said, wearing a Coco mask. "Inside it smells like tears."
Some want O'Brien on whatever channel he lands on -- partly because he's funny, but also for the lingering residue of resentment some have about his short-lived, seven-month misadventure as NBC's "Tonight Show" host, before the network decided to bring Jay Leno back to the 11:30 p.m. time slot. Watching "Conan" now is as much as about not watching something or someone else, on a principle that seems to divide post-ironic viewers, for whom television is just an endless Mobius strip of jokes about being on television, from those who like their late-night comedy slightly more somnolent. (Except of course for everyone already watching Jon Stewart, Stephen Colbert, Jimmy Kimmel, Jimmy Fallon and Craig Ferguson. The fact is, for sharp humor, we've never had it better after the news, so long as we can hold off the snooze.)
It will be many more shows before "Conan" finds a way to distinguish itself -- which leads to the question of whether it's fair to judge "Conan" on one episode.
Sure it is, if only because of the weeks and weeks of "Conan" ads on TV, on billboards, before movie trailers and online. You can't hype your first episode that hard and then expect a pass.
Which is why it's so odd that after all that buildup, Team Coco came forth with so much dull comedy -- even if you factor in the renegade use of a self-pleasuring bear character, about whom much has been written, as O'Brien reportedly tussles with NBC over the rights to character sketches that used to appear on his old show.
Bear or no bear, "Conan's" debut seemed like it had been written hastily on Post-it notes, rather than the showing off the under-appreciated genius that its host has been fostering during his temporary television exile. An early sketch asked us to imagine this gazillionaire living in a tract house with a nagging wife and 14 hungry children, accepting work as a birthday clown and a Burger King wage slave.
It's a fine line with Coco. For every funny line he squeezed from his anger Monday night, he missed the point of pathos.
In the end, it's always difficult to watch America root wildly for a rich guy who had to leave one television gig for a relatively immediate chance at another. By the time O'Brien was rushing through interviews with his supportive guests -- movie actor Seth Rogen, "Glee" star Lea Michele -- it became clear that the expectations for "Conan" were just too darn high. For all his trying to reassert his place on TV, O'Brien forgot to look happy to be there. Up to the point that he began trading guitar riffs with White, he looked worried. The rock loosened him up.
He's not the future of comedy or the savior of all hipsterdom. He's a man at a desk, making jokes about himself while making chitchat with other famous people. Is it possible we have too much collective cultural energy invested in this strange art form?


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Welcome to an online book club created especially for you, a busy real estate professional. Each blog entry is designed to give you a weekly dish on book news in five minutes or less.
Visit often for to-the-point book reviews, lively author chats, excerpts, and (perhaps most importantly) to express your thoughts about a book you've read.
We'd like your ideas on books to include in future blog entries—it doesn't matter if the book is hot off the presses or if it's a classic, as long as it holds the potential to help your fellow real estate practitioners become more successful in their careers or personal lives. Simply contact or send a review copy to:
Meg White
REALTOR® Magazine Online
430 N. Michigan Ave.
Chicago, IL 60611-4087
Phone: 312-329-8378
This blog is provided by the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS® to provide visitors and members with information about books that can foster professional and/or personal development.
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