text:
Unfortunately because of the marginalized status of Black filmmakers within the American Entertainment Complex -due to smaller budgets, fewer releases, segregation from international markets, and severely constricted short term box office expectations- film theory is often considered a pretentious and unnecessary endeavor for Black filmmakers to engage in since it is commonly accepted that profit margins exclusively determine the significance of a Black filmmaker's career (See: Tyler Perry). By contrast, it is prestige in the form of recognized stylistic innovations, noble cause stories, and the accumulation of domestic and international awards which often supports and extends the careers of White filmmakers regardless of their individual film's box office performance (See: Wes Anderson, Darren Aronofsky, Terence Malick, The Coen Brothers, et al. ).
The purpose of what I hope will be a continuing series of articles by others and myself is to re-invigorate the need for Black film theory as a catalyst for discussion and debate among all filmmakers about how race impacts the creation and reception of cinema. The ultimate goal of Black film theory is to contaminate the "Whiteness" of the dominate cinema, destroy its foundations and build a new racially inclusive cinema that contests and/or exposes all inequities (race, class, gender etc) at every opportunity in the pleasurable context of filmed entertainment.
UNDERSTANDING (His) STORY
Taking as true Alfred Hitchcock's remark that," Drama is life with the dull bits cut out," our endeavor here in this inaugural article is to scrutinize why these "dull bits" have been cut out and to suggest that the absence of these so-called "dull bits" often supports the illusion of White supremacy in cinematic storytelling. Our point of departure begins by building upon the work of film scholar David Bordwell and the intriguing chapter of his book POETICS OF CINEMA, called "Cognition and Comprehension." Bordwell begins where another well known film theorist, Christian Metz, began decades earlier with the question," What enables films- particularly narrative films to be understood?"(1) It is surely one of the least discussed aspects of cinematic narration that is the peculiar socio-psychological component we will call story cognition (or how we understand and gain pleasure from the telling of a tale). Although Bordwell does not extend his work into the subject of race and the cinema, we shall attempt to apply many of his observations in such a context for the light that can be shed on this thorny issue.
But before going any further we should discuss in greater detail this particular aspect of cinematic storytelling.
The story in every narrative film, no matter how greatly acclaimed or how little known, has a gap in its contiguity (its logic) because fictional time and narrative time do not always have to match. Everything that happens in a story does not have to be seen on the screen. This gap or series of gaps must be filled in by the spectator for the continuation of pleasure and the comprehension of the tale being told. These gaps are filled in by the assumptions of the spectator as the filmmaker uses the grammar of cinema (shots, editing and sound) to encourage the spectator to make certain assumptions to fill these gaps. Bordwell calls these assumptions, cognizing or," going beyond the information given [and] hypothesizing what is likely to happen next." (2)
In short, when we watch a film we are engaged in a," process of elaboration," that can be called story cognition where we non-consciously fill in the gaps of a film's story based on," informal reasoning procedures."(3) One infamous example of story cognition to fill in a gap in a story is found during the first act of M. Night Shyamalan's THE SIXTH SENSE (1999). Once Dr. Malcolm Crowe (Bruce Willis) is shot by a former patient at night in his home the scene fades out and the following scene begins with Dr. Malcolm Crowe reading a patient's dossier in daylight outside of a home. Seeing this character no longer in distress and doing work in daylight caused many of us to assume that the doctor had survived the shooting and thus led to the "surprise" ending of the film.
The best filmmakers use these story gaps to elicit the intelligence of the audience to make certain assumptions whether or not these assumptions turn out to be erroneous or true to the themes of the story. Still, other filmmakers use these gaps to elicit the ignorance and presumptions of a spectator to fill in these gaps and conceal the prejudices and racial stereotypes upon which such particular gaps are based.
For our purposes, we are interested in this latter group of films and filmmakers that use the ignorance and presumptions of the spectator to conceal the prejudices and racial stereotypes upon which their story gaps are based. Here we are concerned with defining two types of story cognition attributable to the informal reasoning processes of two distinct racial groups:
1) White Story Cognition- which is particular to White films and the audiences to which such films appeal.
2) Black Story Cognition- which is particular to Black films and the audiences to which such films appeal.
Of course one could easily extend such story cognition categories to include Gay & Lesbian cognition, male or female cognition and the like, but this is beyond the scope of this article. It would be prudent at this point to put forth a concise definition of a White film and a Black film:
A) The White film is narrowly defined here as a film with at least one White in the lead role or co-lead role and Blacks or other ethnicities in supporting or non-influential roles where the narrative resolves itself by giving more dramatic attention to the emotions and circumstances of the White character(s).
B) The Black film is a film with a majority Black cast that situates Whites, if any, in peripheral or non-influential roles where the narrative resolves itself by giving more dramatic attention to the emotions and circumstances of the Black character(s).
Make no mistake what will be asserted here is that due to various race specific and culturally embedded stereotypes, prejudices and power relations the informal reasoning processes of Whites and Blacks are different; the two groups might watch the same film and yet make entirely different assumptions with regards to how they fill in the gaps of a particular film's story.
We are guided here in this assertion by an observation by film scholar Nicole Rafter who states that," "For example, if there are no African-American characters at all in a movie, people of color may be more aware than Whites of watching what critic Anna Everett calls a "segregated" film- one from which people like themselves are excluded; even if Whites recognize the exclusion, it will have different meanings for them. Moreover, watching "integrated" films- movies with some African American actors and characters- people of color may be more conscious than Whites of the racial hierarchy in which members of their group seldom qualify as the hero."(4)
This separation of White cognition and Black cognition is not arbitrary; it mirrors a larger systemic separation within the media industry between White and Black films. That is to say, since the American Entertainment Complex has repeatedly segregated Black films from the international market, allotted smaller budgets and lower box office expectations for these films vis-à-vis White films we can surmise that there are assumptions being made in the offices of this industry that rest upon racially motivated inferences and hypotheses with regard to what is a Black film and what is a White (i.e. mainstream) Film. These assumptions are what fill in the gap between what the White executives know about the Black audience which usually leads to the "surprise" endings when a Black film outperforms its box office expectations or audience demographics. (See: Think Like a Man –or- Best Man Holiday)
Of course a major objection that would make all of these assertions unsupportable is: How can we presume to know what others are assuming, particularly an entire group of spectators characterized solely by their race? I believe these assertions can be supported not by reading the people, but instead by reading the films that have been separated for us by the industry into White films and Black films. The films themselves are the traces of White and Black story cognition because as Bordwell has noted," Not all spectators are filmmakers, but all filmmakers are spectators… [Therefore] a film displays systematic patterns of narrative, themes, style, and the like.(5) Bordwell calls these narratives with systematic patterns "norms" that supply "cues" to a spectator which," initiate the process of elaboration, resulting eventually in inferences and hypotheses.(6)
We can re-read these cues to comprehend how they are eliciting a distinct set of assumptions that characterize White story cognition vis-à-vis Black story cognition.
To better grasp the notion of these two types of story cognition we have to understand that each type has a master assumption that exists beyond the narrative itself which guides all of our subsequent assumptions, inferences and hypotheses when we as spectators fill in the gaps of a White film or a Black film.
The master assumption of White story cognition can be summarized as: We shall always prevail.
The master assumption of Black story cognition can be summarized as: We shall overcome- someday.
These two assumptions would appear to be very similar but in fact the two are qualitatively different. The master assumptions are also historically determined and adhere to racial hierarchies that have been consistent since the discovery of the New World. Another source for the master assumptions has to do with story archetypes and who controls the American Entertainment Industry where there is a preponderance of White (male) heroes who survive the trials and tribulations of the stories in a large percentage of White films. But by contrast, there is a greater propensity for Black co-leads and/or supporting characters to be killed or rendered ineffectual during the course of the stories of a large percentage of White films.
Most importantly, what distinguishes these two types of story cognition is that you do not have to actually be White to comprehend a White film through White story cognition; other races are willing to adopt the mask of White story cognition to follow the cues and accept the concealment of prejudices and racial stereotypes in exchange for the narrative and visual pleasure of a White film. By contrast, to fully comprehend a Black film through Black story cognition one has to be empathic and willing to accept the revelation of prejudices, racial stereotypes and the history and continuation of systemic racial inequities and injustices to follow the cues within the film in exchange for the narrative and visual pleasure of a Black film.
If we have to ask ourselves the question why the two types of story cognition are different the simple answer is because most White films often reflect the dominant cultural illusions to which we are all obliged to aspire. On the other hand, many Black films often reflect the awful truths concealed behind those dominant illusions to which we would rather ignore.
Man prefers illusion over the truth, one could say.
We have a small sampling of films to support these assertions, but hopefully not all films can be so easily separated within the two categories because there are always exceptions whose significance we shall address later. In regards to White story cognition we will briefly examine particular gaps in the films: SKYFALL (Sam Mendes- 2012), SPRINGBREAKERS (Harmony Korine- 2013), and WORLD WAR Z (Mark Forster- 2013). In regards to Black story cognition in the second part of this article we will briefly examine particular gaps in THE BUTLER (Lee Daniels-2013), 12 YEARS A SLAVE (Steve McQueen-2013), MANDELA: A LONG WALK TO FREEDOM (Justin Chadwick – 2013)
Josh Buechler | January 21, 2014 10:59 PM
Fantastic article. I am looking forward to more from this project.
Your analysis of Skyfall as a prime example of "The White Man Will Prevail" is interesting, as I think it is extremely on point and really gets to the source of the James Bond character in general. At the same time I know quite a few people who really dislike Skyfall because oddly enough James Bond more or less fails in his aims throughout the whole movie. (Fails at every turn to save anyone that he sets out to save)
Yet your point still stands in that the film outright has several scenes verbally describing the institutions that Bond represents and by the end of the film, that is what is upheld. Even with Bond pretty much completely failing in his objectives, the film still kind of ends on a triumphant note, returning to the status quo of the first Sean Connery film with a big "Bond has arrived" moment.
I also really appreciate your thoughts on World War Z (and the thoughts you cited). It really pointed out yet another way that the film completely ignored the source material, which detailed a fully global effort with no quick fixes and massive shifts in global power relations.
Can't wait to see more.
Tiffany | January 20, 2014 4:09 PM
Great article! I can't wait to read part 2.
Demetrius Bagley | January 18, 2014 3:32 PM
BBC's Sherlock is even more fascinating having read this article. THANK YOU :)
Daryl | January 8, 2014 2:11 PM
Andre Seawood you are misinterpretating my comments saying I'm a black elities because I say it's going to go over most black people head,I'm not saying black folks are dumb I'm saying we are in a sytem that has created this plight of black folks, of course it's going to be some black folks that understand what you are saying, what I'm saying it's not going to enough to make change because of the system we are in and the mental assault on black people's mind.This is not saying black people are dumb, but it's pointing the reality of the after effects of slavery and jim crows laws on black people that continues today in a different form. Also who said I didn't have a stratergy, that's your assumption, my stratergy is words with action because I know black people need to see it to start making these changes because of white supremacy ment assault on them through images. Once you know see e it and know it's possible and it's just not talk anymore that's when the real change comes. If you was right on your opinion of articles like these not going over black people head, we wouldn't be having these conversations year after year because we would have the education and the understanding thta we need to build and create our own systems to make real change instead of trying to change it within a racists system design to keep us down. You think it's an accident that most of the black money doesn't stay in our own community, this is my point again on stuff going over most black people head because if most of us had the education we needed for change we would understand that most of our money needs to stay within our own community and we would care enough to make these changes to start keeping our money in our community. This is not black elitism this, is the reality of black men and women being a target in america to be a permenant underclass. You dealing in theory, I'm dealing in facts, show me the numbers that back up your statements of me being a black elitists because I recognize this assault on black people. Show me the numbers of black people getting the same economic and education opportunites as white folks, show me the numbers of black people being harrassed and illegal searched by the poilce the same as other races, show me the numbers of black people in hollywood getting rich and not putting out the same sterotypes as white hollywood has been putting out about black people. Show me one 20 million dollar a film black actor or rich black producer that has produced a non traditonal hollywood black film, example sci fi or fantasy film, so how can you say this not going to affect a mass of people mental state when they have to deal with these realities and article like yours cannot go over most people's head that has to deal with these issues on a daily basis, this is not saying they are dumb but talking about the system they are in that created this. Andre Seawood I respect your opinion, I think this debate is good because it's no one way to solve things, but I had to correct you on the black elitists part because I'm far from that, I believe in black people no matter what class they are in.
Daryl | January 7, 2014 6:15 PM
This article and the comments highlights the problem with black cinema, too many of us are trying to fit in with mainstream white society because we feel like we made it if they accept us, that gives us validation, instead of using the tools we have and telling our own stories. The black man and woman has alway being a target and subject to stereotypes, because the fake powers that be know images can be used to control people giving them low self esteem, making them believe those stereotypes, and making them think they are hopeless, that's why you continue to get tons of articles like this about what hollywood is not doing, last time I checked it's no black people greenlighting movies but it's rich black people in hollywood keeping their mouth shut and going with the program so they can get their holywood walk of fame and riches and keep their jobs in the so called liberal hollywood who suppose to welcome change. You think rich white people in hollywood are going to share their power with black folks because you writing articles like this, no they just laugh at this because in the end they know this is just all talk until the next new article comes out talking about the same thing.Black producers, directors, writers, actors and actresses have to come together on a real level to get it done and stop being manipulated by the hollywood dream, if you notice it's always one or two black box office stars at a time and it's no black woman box office stars, this is for a reason, to keep you in your place. Andre Seawood I remember reading an economic piece you wrote about how we can build a strong black cinema, it was a good article, that's where most of our focus should be. You cannot negotiate with white supremacy or make them see the light by thought provoking articles they only understand action. These is what white supremacy has bamboozled black people into believing that this way of just talk is going to get the job done.
JEFTCG | January 6, 2014 5:39 PM
Excellent observations, Mr. Seewood. Much more thoughtful (and thought-provoking) than most of the postings on this site. With no judgement toward S&A, may I respectfully suggest your own site to start, where you are the moderator/curator?
Katie | January 6, 2014 3:53 PM
Wow, I actually thought this was going to be a garbage post, but I really enjoyed Seewood's points. Glad I read Seewood's piece all the way through. Having said that...What are the plan for this revolution you advocate for Hollywood? I'm personally a seperatist and believe that black should create their own instead of trying to infiltrate/contaminate white cinema and destroy it.
There will be outlined plan at the end of all this, right? Or is this another one of those talk and reflect posts? I really hope not because I actually think you are on a roll.
No | January 6, 2014 12:19 PM
Part of the Skyfall analysis would be more "honest" -- if Seewood would also recognize that one of the other "dull bits" that is shown is that Bond is getting older and doesn't make the grade. He doesn't pass the psychological test, I think he's shooting is off, and there ares some physical he flunks. M passes him any way.
Now, you could make an argument that this underscores the "We Shall Prevail," but fact that Seewood doesn't even mention these parts of the story--that James Bond is getting older, cause me question Seewood's agenda in trying to craft a theory. You just can't leave out elements that don't conform to the theory.
This fails the first smell test.
CraigT | January 4, 2014 9:54 PM
Having just seen Spring Breakers, I loved EVERYTHING about this article. Thank you for your keen observations.
CareyCarey | January 4, 2014 9:21 PM
FINE WORK! ~ J. Bassett.
I'd like to champion that sentiment by saying Andre Seewood is Da Freakin' Man! Listen, I've been called a bootlicker and other unpleasant names for championing the efforts/work of Sergio and Tambay. Well, if recognizing (and not being ashamed, nor afraid to say) when black men are providing us with superior information and entertainment, qualifies one as a brown-noser, sign me up and supersize me to the status of S&A's champion brown nose black buck because Andre gets my shining star award.
I've read all of Andre's articles. Although I may not agree with all of his assertions, in the arena/field of "Black Film Theory" and the struggles of Black cinema, nobody does it better than Mr. Seewood... and let me list the ways.
His command of the English language, vocabulary and concise writing style is to die for. Granted, I have to admit that because of his intellectual style of writing and his vocabulary that's well above mine, I have to read his work/paragraphs/sentences over and over again (while referencing a dictionary) before I feel I truly understand what he's saying. But hey, when I do reach that place of understanding, I can't help but say this guy is Da Man who knows what he's talking about. And, it's always good (imo) to be pushed outside one's comfort zone.
He's also a great debater who, unlike many writers at S&A, welcomes and requests all challengers.
In short, I am still reading this article (for the 3rd time) and all the comments. But I had to stop to say job well done.
Btw, aside from the quality of work Andre brings to the table, I am also impressed by the readers his articles attract to the discussion.
blackbrady | January 4, 2014 7:04 PM
Not gonna lie, i stopped reading towards the end. i have this conversation with myself daily, nice to see someone expound...spanks...
J. Bassett | January 4, 2014 3:32 PM
Really dig your project here and would humbly recommend the following works to strengthen your analysis:
1. Gladstone Yearwood's, "Black Film as a Signifying Practice," is arguably the most advanced work of its kind in the field of cinematic studies of race and narrative theory and his early work in the 1980s at OSU lays the groundwork for efforts to understand the "nature" of of black film itself as a language. Yearwood's work should be paired with Gates's seminal studies of black literary criticism, which also locates signifyin(g) (sic) practices as fundamental to the operations of what can be difficultly called "authentic" black expression.
2. Robert Stam's and Ellas Shohat's work is also critical in this area, especially Stam's analysis of Spike Lee's films and Shoat's work on how film enunciates meaning through non-visual registers (e.g., sound, music, off-screen modalities, etc.).
3. Bordwell's work on "poetics," it can be argued, is actually inhospitable to the kind of analysis you outline here, however in the intro/first chapter of his book that you cite, he does vaguely reference where race might be conceived as a structure of poetics, but this distinction must be made in detail for an effectively rigorous conception of black film poetics to develop. IMHO.
J. Bassett
Nasty Nagger | January 4, 2014 11:09 AM
I think Django Unchained supports your theory better than Skyfall. The film was sold as a dlave uprising but wasn't at all. Django wasn't even the lead character and Tarantino managed to insert extremely racist ideas like phrenology into the movie. Django Unchained in my opinion is the epitome of white supremacy fantasy
Deborah | January 3, 2014 8:59 PM
"due to various race specific and culturally embedded stereotypes, prejudices and power relations the informal reasoning processes of Whites and Blacks are different; the two groups might watch the same film and yet make entirely different assumptions with regards to how they fill in the gaps of a particular filmâs story."
This makes me think of Robert Stepto's identification of "distrust of the reader" as a trope in African-American literature - the idea that writers are aware of what you here term a racially-contingent "story cognition" and in response 1) structure their texts to militate against misreadings; 2) embed in their texts a critique of the "unreliable reader"; and 3) thematize what Stepto calls a "discourse of distrust."
I wonder if you find a similar dynamic at play in the work of particular filmmakers.
If Not Now, When? | January 3, 2014 7:36 PM
I'm looking for part two, is it not up yet? If I just can't find it, that's my fault, but if not... Why wait? Why not lead with that? Why do you have to lean on David Bordwell when "his" question has been asked as long as cinema has existed? Why do we keep letting the same people go first? Isn't that the most fundamental problem here?
Big Shane | January 3, 2014 2:26 PM
What was also very telling about "Spring Breakers" is what was the message conveyed through Selena Gomez's character -A mousy, bible thumping teen who was pressured by her friends into going to "spring break".... Once she is there, the endless parade of caucasian debauchery (nakedness, public sex, rampant drug use and vandalism) doesn't seem to phase her one iota. Only to become hysterically paranoid, suspicious, homesick and concerned that things are "going off the rails" the very moment her and her friends wind up around some black men in a bar playing pool.
Laya | January 3, 2014 12:12 AM
Re: Skyfall. You've got me thinking, and I'm going to have to watch the film again. I've seen it twice - in the theater and on Netflix - and loved it both times. Bond's miraculous survival n the opening scene bugged me, but I never saw it as happening because he's a white man, but rather because he's James Bond. His ability to survive the most impossible situations is as much a part of the character as "shaken, not stirred". Reading it in a racial context also makes me want to re-examine Moneypenny's role, seeing as how she is the person who shot him. I enjoyed a lot about Moneypenny's characterization overall - she's strong and intelligent and she doesn't die - but in this instance she's an instrument of the tension between M and Bond - little more than a pawn in the overall plot. So yes - I'm going to have to watch it again.
Daryl | January 2, 2014 7:38 PM
Andre Seawood make some poignant obeservations in this article, I agree with a lot of it but It's like I've been saying on this site for ahwile these discussion are tired because we got the tools and ability to distribute our own films so why do we keep concerning ourselves with what white folks think about us, they are not going to change until they have no choice too. We will never get to where we want to be as long as we keep programing ourselves to be in a needy position. Do for self and build our own networks is the answer, it's simple as that, so if you want to sit around and have these same conversation for the next 100 years go ahead or you can be about action to change. One more thing I keep hearing about film budgets black filmmakers don't have. This is a trap to keep you in a mental prison because most big budgets films suck and it's lot of small budgets films that are great that put them to shame, money does not make you tell a good story. It's your imagination and we are all on the same playing field when it comes to that, so stop letting people put the budget hurdle in your mind, this is a tactic to make you give up before you even start or have excuses on why you can't do it. We should just tell our stories and do our best.
Tom Haverford | January 2, 2014 11:16 AM
Re: Spring Breakers, Vanessa Hudgens isn't white, she's mixed-race WOC.
Good column, though. I look forward to part two.


text:
Doolittle Raider Lt. Col. Richard Cole, retired Air Force, will take his final flight in a B-25 bomber at Maxwell Thursday afternoon.
Cole was Jimmy Doolittle's co-pilot on one of the B-25s flown during the "Doolittle Raid," the first bombing mission against Japan on April 18, 1942. After the mission, Cole stayed in China and India, flying cargo aircraft and taking part in the first allied all-aerial invasion.
He retired in 1967 as a command pilot with more than 5,000 hours in 30 different aircraft.
Gathering of Eagles is an annual aviation event that traces its origin back to 1980, when retired Brig. Gen. Paul Tibbets was invited to visit ACSC to share some of his experiences with the students.
This visit became the genesis for the Gathering of Eagles program. The first official Gathering of Eagles (then known as "Great Moments in Aviation History") was hosted by comedic legend Bob Hope in 1982.
A small faculty and student group was chartered to develop an aviation heritage program encouraging the study of aviation history and the contributions of aviation pioneers. Fifteen distinguished aviators were invited to share their unique personal experiences through a series of teaching interviews and social events with members of the class.
The nation is losing an astonishing number of WWII vets at an alarming rate of nearly 1,200 each day. Events such as GoE are crucial in capturing this greatest of generations' stories and experiences to pass on to the next Greatest Generation. The Eagles represent a cross section of the iconic figures from each military service. Their stories enhance the joint professional military education environment at ACSC, whose graduates will operate in joint environments in today's military operations.
This year's Eagles are:
Lt. Col. Robert Berg, Air Force Reserve, was the lead critical care nurse on the rescue mission of John Solecki, the only American hostage rescued alive from Pakistan since 2000.
Ret. Lt. Col. Richard Cole, Air Force, was Jimmy Doolittle's copilot on the first bomber to launch from the USS Hornet on the famous Tokyo Raid in April 1942.
Chief Master Sgt. Ramon Colon-Lopez, Air Force, is a pararescueman with more than 23 years of service, supporting Operations Desert Storm and Enduring Freedom. His decorations include two Bronze Stars with Valor and is the first Airmen to receive the Air Force Combat Action Medal.
Ret. Col. George "Bud" Day, Air Force, is the nation's most decorated warrior since Gen. Douglas MacArthur. In a military career spanning 34 years and three wars, Day received 70 decorations, of which more than 50 are for combat, including the Medal of Honor.
Ret. Master Sgt. Scott Fales, Air Force, was the lead pararescueman on Blackhawk "Super Six-Eight" during the 1993 Mogadishu battle.
Ret. Rear Adm. James Flatley III, Navy, entered aviation history in October 1963 as a Navy test pilot. As the Flight Test Carrier Suitability Project pilot, he piloted the largest aircraft, a C-130, ever to land upon an aircraft carrier.
Ret. Gen. Ronald Fogleman, Air Force, retired as the 15th Chief of Staff of the Air Force. In September 1968, his F-100 took numerous hits from ground fire. He ejected, evaded capture and in a dramatic rescue, clung to the gun bay door of an Army Cobra helicopter gunship and was carried 20 miles to safety.
First Lt. Robert Hoover, U.S. Army Air Force, flew 59 combat missions over Europe before being shot down and captured as a POW during WWII. He escaped by stealing a German airplane. After WWII, he served as a test pilot and air show performer, accumulating more than 30,000 flight hours in more than 300 aircraft.
Pearl Judd, Women Airforce Service Pilot, was one of the WASP during World War II. Of the 25,000 women who applied to the service, she was one of only 1,074 who successfully completed the training program.
Ret. Col. Charles McGee, Air Force, is one of the famed Tuskegee Airmen. His flying service started in WWII and continued into Korea and Vietnam, earning the highest three-war total for fighter missions of any Air Force aviator.
Ret. Lt. Col. Francis Murray, Air Force, was one of only six pilots to fly the A-12 for the CIA's legendary Oxcart program. From May 1967 to June 1968, he flew four A-12 missions at more than 80,000 feet and in excess of Mach 3 over Southeast Asia, attempting to locate the USS Pueblo seized in the North Korean port of Wonson Harbor.
Ret. Maj. Gen. Donald Strait, Air Force, flew the P-51 and P-47 fighter aircraft during WWII, becoming a flying ace with 13.5 kills.
Col. Raymond Strasburger, Air Force, led a two-ship of A-10 Thunderbolts during the battle for Baghdad in Operation Iraqi Freedom. He and his wingman destroyed major elements of an enemy armored force assaulting Task Force 2-69 Armor at Muthanna Bridge, saving American lives and allowing them to continue maneuvers to encircle Baghdad.
Ret. Col. Dennis Traynor, Air Force, answered President Ford's call when he lead a crew of 24 in the evacuation of orphans from South Vietnam during Operation Babylift's first official mission. During the mission, his C-5 aircraft experienced a catastrophic malfunction, and his actions saved 176 lives during a crash landing in a rice paddy.
Staff Sgt. Wesley Wells, U.S. Army Air Force, enlisted in the Army Air Corps in 1943, and served as a B-17 Flying Fortress ball turret gunner for the 379th Bomb Group, the most decorated 8th Air Force bomb group in WWII. Wells eventually became a POW and was transferred to six different POW camps before his release in 1945.
"Honorary Eagel" Ret. Maj. Gen. Stanton Musser (deceased October 2012), Air Force, had a 31-year Air Force career. He also served as a mentor to future leaders while vice commandant at the Air Force Academy and commandant of cadets at Virginia Tech. He is survived by his wife Dawn, who will be present at the GoE.
INFORMATION SOURCE: Maxwell AFB
12 East Delano Avenue
Montgomery, AL 36105
(334) 288-1212
FCC Public File
EEO Report
Closed Captioning

subset: commoncrawl


text:
Mayor George Apel opened his latest report to the Town Council with a light-hearted suggestion.
"Maybe we should begin every meeting either lesson on the Constitution," he said.
He was making reference to the proclamation he had just read for longtime resident geraldine Strong of the Daughters of the American Revolution on behalf of Constitution Week.
Apel said he was impressed with the cleanliness of the school buildings and grounds prior to the start of classes. He toured each building with other town officials.
Town officials also toured the Newhoca area to examine the town parkland prior to the sewer work slated for the Boltonlakes area.
Apel presided over the dedicated for the new Phoenix Street Bridge last week and on Tuesday, he challenged residents to go back in the winter and see the falls over the Tankerhoosen River when frozen. He said it presents one of the best photo-ops in town.
He said Public Works Director Robert Kleinhans is "recovering nicely" from his sick leave and has been back in the office on a limited basis.
Apel said he is now receiving progress reports from every town department twice a month.
"It's the engineer in me," Apel said.
Right now, Apel is working off a hard copy of the reports, but Town Council member Thomas DiDio asked if electronic copies can be made available. Apel said it's an old habit to makes notes in margins on hard copy, but said he is working on it.
Mayor Now Getting Progress Reports From Department Heads
"It's the engineer in me."
Mayor George Apel opened his latest report to the Town Council with a light-hearted suggestion.


text: The Listener Series 2 - 6. The Magician Share: About this programme 6/13. A judge is kidnapped, and an imprisoned criminal mastermind holds the key to his location, but refuses to share the knowledge. McCluskey spots an ideal opportunity to make use of Toby's abilities, but reading the convict's mind throws up unexpected results. Cast and crew Cast Toby Logan Craig Olejnik Sgt Michelle McCluskey Lauren Lee Smith Categories Drama Share:


text:
- Mobile site
- E-Newsletters
- News feed
- Find us on Twitter
All the latest news and views from the Packet
All the latest sport from the Packet
- Find us on Facebook
The Packet
Like us on Facebook
Penryn's mayor says no to another year in charge (From Falmouth Packet)
Get involved: send your pictures, video, news and views by texting PKNEWS to 80360
Penryn's mayor says no to another year in charge
4:00pm Sunday 9th February 2014 in News
Penryn's mayor has announced she will not be continuing in her post for another year, in spite of being nominated for the |position.
At February's council meeting Councillor Beverly Hulme acknowledged that she had been sent a nomination to see her continue as mayor, but said that since then she had received news regarding both her work and family which meant she wouldn't be able to best carry out the job.
Councillors voted to put forward Councillor Gill Grant, the current deputy mayor, who accepted the nominations.
Comments are closed on this article.


text:
Rafeal Lovato Jr skipped the IBJJF Pan Ams in favor of going to the far less known Brazilian Championships. Known as the Brasileiro, it is the least covered of the major Brazilian Jiu Jitsu competitions. It does attract some of the big names but it also draws largely unknown talent from Brazil that is unable to afford the travel costs of going to the U.S. for the Pan Ams or World Championships. As a result it is normally a very deep tournament.
Lovato became the first non-Brazilian to win the open-weight at the Brasileiro, and the first non-Brazilian to win an open-weight title at a major IBJJF competition. Making history is not new to Lovato as he is widely considered the best American in competitive Brazilian Jiu Jitsu.
Born in Ohio, Lovato moved to Oklahoma City and learned martial arts from his father, who was Jeet Kune Do instructor. When the father and son heard about Jiu Jitsu they began to teach themselves to grapple through VHS tape and traveling to seminars. Lovato made a name for himself in the Juvenile divisions of BJJ competitions. Lovato caught the eye of Saulo and Xande Ribeiro, two of the best competitors and coaches in BJJ. Lovato began to train under the Ribeiro brothers, traveling to California for stints but remaining mainly at his own school in Oklahoma City.
In 2007, Lovato became the first competitor ever to win his weightclass at the black belt level at the Brasileiro, the European Championships, the Pan American Championships and the World Championships in the same year. Since then Lovato has also won a No Gi World Championships and also won his match at Metamoris I against Kayron Gracie.
Lovato is currently set to take on Andre Galvao in a Submission only match at Metamoris II this May. Bloody Elbow will be providing full coverage of that event.
For more on Lovato visit his website or his profile on BJJ Heroes.


text:
NJIT Outlasts Wilmington in 12, 7-6
NEWARK, Apr 18 2005
The NJIT baseball team came overcame deficits three times in its 12-inning, 7-6 CACC victory over Wilmington (Del.) College on Friday at Wilson Field. The Highlanders have won seven consecutive conference games. The home game scheduled for this Wednesday, April 20, against Dowling College has been canceled.


text:
Zak: Why do you think that MMA and the UFC are so popular in Canada is it the history of hockey and hockey fight?
Ryan: Oh fuck no. I'd actually say hockey kind of keeps MMA in the shadows to a degree. Like take a look at the last time the UFC came to Montreal, it was a huge success and it sold out in minutes but as far as the city and most people were concerned, the only thing going on were the playoffs [the Montreal Canadians were in the NHL playoffs].
There's no definite answer for why we have such a high percentage of fans compared to the US, but if I was only allowed to pick one factor I'd say it probably has to do with pro wrestling. Canadians were retarded about it, then they grew up and grew right into the UFC.
Zak: Right, the Hart brothers.
Ryan: Yeah, plus hey maybe you can equate the low intelligence of Torontonians as to why they enjoyed it so much. But I think in the end it's also a bunch of smaller factors like how our government treated the sport and how medicare exists here. Personally I have no idea how smaller-level MMA exists in the US at all without having full-coverage healthcare
Also the expansion of the internet, which was really good in city centers. Everyone in America was still on dialup when DSL and cable were pretty much old hat in Canada. The internet was a necessity to be a fan a few years back, so it'd make sense that better internet access meant more fans
So there's my several pronged theory for why Canada is a hot spot
-- Ryan from Fightlinker talking to Zak Woods about MMA in Canada (don't miss the red hot maple leaf pic in the post).


text:
ALEX McNAMEE Daily News
Effingham Daily News
---- — STRASBURG — Senior Lindsay Burton did the only thing doctors said she could do on the volleyball court, serving Stew-Stras' final three points on Wednesday.
Burton, who suffered a high ankle sprain Sept. 19 that ended her season, checked into the game with the approval of head coach Ronda Schlechte to serve and then stand safely in the corner of the court.
"I wanted to do that, but didn't want her to get hurt at the same time," Schlechte said. "I'm glad she got to do that because she was upset that she didn't get to play tonight."
Schlechte told her senior, from the sideline, to "Stand still" after serving the ball, while her teammates practically competed one player down to win the final three points of its two-set win over Ramsey.
Whether or not she got to play as physically as she normally would, Burton said being on the court to finish the Comets' senior night highlighted her lost season.
"That meant more to me than anything," said Burton, who injured her ankle in a game against St. Elmo/Brownstown. "That was the best part of this whole season. It was awesome."
Schlechte said it was vindication for her senior, who aspires to play college volleyball, at the end of what would be a stressful season for any athlete.
"It's bothered her a lot," Schlechte said. "It kind of hurts because she was wanting to do college ball. She's got club (volleyball) to look forward to."
On the court, Stew-Stras made quick work of Ramsey, winning 25-13 and 25-7, but Schlechte said her team did a good job not playing down to its opponent.
Schlechte said Wednesday's win should boost the team's confidence because it played the game it wants to play on a regular basis.
"I was happy with the girls' hitting, of course, when they can get some massive hits it," Schlechte said. "It boosts their confidence when they can hit hard like that."
Stew-Stras took second place overall at this weekend's Pana/Shelbyville Tournament, including a win over Effingham, which Schlechte said should even out the skill level of teams the Comets have played entering Friday's opening matches in the conference tournament.
The Comets were 2-3 at Pana this weekend and Schlechte said she thought her team could've played harder – using the Comets' two-set win over St. Anthony last week as a gauge for effort.
"I wish would could've played like we played for St. Anthony," Schlechte said. "That's the mindset they have to have every game and sometimes they don't have that."
Wednesday's win allows the Comets to shift their focus to this weekend's National Trail Conference tournament, where they are the No. 1 seed.
The Comets play seventh-seeded Windsor at 6 p.m. Friday at the Enlow Center, which is two hours before the start of their second game against sixth-seeded St. Elmo/Brownstown in Pool A.
Stew-Stras (16-8, 8-1 NTC) will be competing to represent Pool A in the Gold Flight on Saturday, where the three top teams will play to determine to conference champion.
Alex McNamee can be reached at 217-347-7151, ext. 123, or email@example.com.
Stew-Stras 25 25
Ramsey 13 7
Stew-Stras: Schlechte (3 aces, 2 kills, 15 assists, 4 digs), Quast (2 aces, 2 kills, 6 assists, 2 digs), Knop (1 ace, 9 kills, 4 digs), Tabbert (7 kills, 4 digs), Burton (2 aces), Stremming (2 kills, 1 block), Locke (2 digs), Kaufman (1 ace, 3 kills, 2 digs)


text:
Pat Quinn, Governor
State Links
Health & Safety
Family & Home
Travel & Recreation
About Illinois
Stay Informed
Illinois Roads
Traffic Alerts
Amber Alerts
Missing & Exploited Children
RSS News Feeds
Your Government
State Telephone Directory
State Agencies
Executive Branch
Federal Government
FOIA Contacts
Search Illinois
IGNN: State/All Press Release
The State of Illinois News page provides access to the Illinois Government News Network and all state press releases.
October 17, 2008
Blagojevich Administration Announces Boost in Temporary Assistance Benefits for Low-Income Families
First Increase in Six Years will Give Needy (TANF) Families a Nine Percent Hike
– Low income families finding it hard to make ends meet got some good news today when the Blagojevich Administration announced a nine-percent increase in the benefit amount for the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program. TANF provides temporary financial assistance for pregnant women and families with one or more dependent children.
The increase in the TANF benefit amount was announced today by Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) Secretary Carol L. Adams, Ph.D. at a press conference at the IDHS Family Community Resource Center in Wicker Park.
"The grant increase could not have come at a better time as many families are feeling the pinch of the struggling economy," said Governor Rod R. Blagojevich. "The extra monthly amount will help families deal with the rising cost of living."
TANF helps individuals and families achieve self-sufficiency by providing financial assistance to help pay for food, shelter, utilities, and expenses other than medical costs. There are 26,675 TANF households in Illinois totaling 62,117 persons. The increase in the TANF payment levels will be included in the November payments. Each family receiving TANF will also receive a retroactive lump sum payment for July through October. The retroactive payment is issued to the recipient's Link card account.
"This is a great day for Illinois because of what the TANF increase means to so many Illinoisans trying to provide for their families and move toward self-sufficiency," Adams said. "The TANF program offers important temporary assistance to those families who need it the most and the long-awaited increase will make a big difference for more than 26,000 families."
With the increase, a family of four living in Chicago will now receive $474 a month. Families in medium and small cities receive slightly less. The most recent previous TANF increase was a five percent hike in 2002. The average monthly TANF grant is $241. The average length of time a customer receives TANF is 19.3 months.
"If families can't pay the bills, they can't focus on workforce participation. We're very pleased that the Governor and General Assembly took this step to allow the lowest income children and families to meet their ever-increasing needs," said John Bouman, president of the Shriver Center.
The TANF program offers time-limited cash assistance for basic needs, such as clothing, housing, and utilities. A person or family who gets TANF also receives medical assistance and food stamps to help them work toward self-sufficiency. The program also provides self-sufficiency services to help families become independent, such as GED preparation, vocational training, postsecondary education, vocational rehabilitation, classes in basic English, help with child care, work stipends, and job retention services.
To qualify for TANF, a person must:
· Be pregnant or have a child under age 19 who lives with them. A child who is 18 must be a full-time high school student. A pregnant woman (and her husband, if he lives with her) may qualify for help, even if they don't have any other children.
· Live in Illinois. A person can be homeless and still qualify.
· Have countable income less than the TANF Payment Level for their family size.
· Be a U.S. citizen or meet certain immigration requirements.
· Develop and follow a plan for becoming self-sufficient.
News Categories
Governor's Office
Lt. Governor's Office
Economic Development
Flag Honors
Health/Human Services
Opportunity Returns
News Resources
Search the News
IIS Radio News
RSS News Feeds
e-News Subscriptions
Communications Office
Privacy Statement
Copyright © 2014
State of Illinois
Site Map
Illinois Privacy Info
Kids Privacy
Web Accessibility
Contact Us


text:
- Mobile site
- E-Newsletters
- News feed
- Find us on Facebook
Bromsgrove Advertiser
Like us on Facebook
Bromsgrove farm to open its doors to the public (From Bromsgrove Advertiser)
Get involved! Send your photos, video, news & views by texting BA NEWS to 80360 or e-mail us
Bromsgrove farm to open its doors to the public
2:00pm Wednesday 4th June 2014 in News
A BROMSGROVE farm is opening its doors to the public for a free event.
Local farmer John Monk is welcoming the public to his family farm this Sunday, June 8.
Chadwich Manor Farm in Redhill Lane, is holding the event between 10am-4pm.
During the open day visitors will be able to see various animals including the baby pigmy goat.
People can also browse the British craftmen's gallery, and enjoy a cup of tea and homemade cake.
There will be also be tasty samples to try in the farm shop, including home grown Highland beef, gorgerous pork sausages and tangy Worcestershire cheeses.
Families are encouraged to bring along a picnic and make a day of it. But visitors will need to leave dogs at home, as they could upset the animals on the farm.
John said: "We think this is a great opportunity for us to share the lives we lead on the farm with everyone. "We forget that some children have very few opportunities to get close to animals. We just hope to make the day one the whole family will enjoy and remember."
A map of where the farm is can be found is available be visiting lizmonkpottery.com.
Comments are closed on this article.


text:
Establishing and Using Data Standards in Health Workforce Information Systems
Human resources information systems help countries track and support their health workforces. Information systems are successful when they support policy and management decisions and when those decisions lead to better health care—but success depends on the quality of the human resources for health (HRH) data going into the system. How can countries ensure the quality of their data? A new CapacityPlus technical brief discusses organizational, national, and international data standards that can help.
See all resources in our Knowledge Library
Third Global Symposium on Health Systems Research
September 29 – October 3, Cape Town, South Africa
The theme of the Third Global Symposium on Health Systems Research is the science and practice of people-centered health systems, chosen to enable participants to address current and critical concerns of relevance across countries in all parts of the world. Researchers, policy-makers, funders, implementers, and other stakeholders from all regions and all socioeconomic levels will work together on the challenge of how to make health systems more responsive to the needs of individuals, families, and communities.
CapacityPlus is participating in a number of events and presentations: Read more »


text:
Says defensive coordinator should be fired Brad Biggs
Some have suggested the coach the New Orleans Saints missed most this past season was Gregg Williams, the ex-defensive coordinator who was suspended indefinitely by the NFL for his role in the team's bounty scandal/
Steve Spagnuolo was hired to replace Williams and the Saints were poor defensively and now an unnamed player has shredded Spagnuolo in comments to Larry Holder of the New Orleans Times-Picayune.
The player believes coach Sean Payton should fire Spagnuolo when he returns from his own suspension. New Orleans was 31st in points allowed, last in run defense and 31st vs. the pass. It was bad all the way around.
"To give up what we gave up can't be all talent. Look at where his units (have) been ranked before. I think one top 10?" the player told Holder. "Players have no say in anything. It was (a) complete opposite from before where it was a simple D that players had lot of control and say. We couldn't suggest (expletive) ... Nothing ever changed. It was his way only.
"Don't even get me started on lack (of) ability to adjust during games. Bad, bad, bad."
The player slammed Spagnuolo personally too.
"He does have that good-guy persona, but he is a control freak and treats people like crap," the player said. "(Spagnuolo has) no patience and zero personality. (He) has a way of pissing players and our defensive coaches off with how he says and does things. (I) think it's even harder after having Gregg, who guys enjoyed."
We'll see what shakes out because if this belief is widespread throughout the locker room, the Saints have some issues.
Follow me on Twitter: @BradBiggs
Brad Biggs covers the Bears for the Chicago Tribune
NFP's Introduction to Scouting Class is now registering for the Fall session! Save $200 if you enroll before July 31st. REGISTER NOW!
Check out our partners at TiqIQ for the best deals on all games on the 2014 NFL schedule.
AUG 19 Jesse Lawrence
Seahawks, 49ers tickets lead most expensive Rivalry Game premiums on secondary market
AUG 19 Ari Nissim
Will Carolina deliver Newton a Golden Apple?
A look at what the Panthers signal-caller can expect come contract time.
AUG 17 Jesse Lawrence
Ticket market suggests Alabama, Florida State favorites for National Championship.


text:
- Mobile site
- E-Newsletters
- News feed
- Find us on Twitter
All the latest news from the County Gazette
- Find us on Facebook
Somerset County Gazette
Like us on Facebook
NETBALL: Hovelands finish with a flourish for Galmington (From Somerset County Gazette)
Get involved! Send your photos, video, news & views by texting COUNTY GAZETTE to 80360 or email us
NETBALL: Hovelands finish with a flourish for Galmington
2:52pm Friday 16th May 2014 in Sport
The final day of the netball season saw all six of Galmington's Somerset League teams in action.
Hovelands finished their Premier Division season on a high note with a superb win over Millfield in a match of outstanding quality.
Both teams were quickly into their stride in a high-scoring first quarter which Hovelands just edged 14-12.
Hovelands took the initiative in the second period to open up an eight-goal lead but Millfield responded well to reduce the deficit leaving the Hovelands side 29-24 ahead at half-time.
It was end to end netball with both teams playing excellently, but, with goal attack Laura Dyke superb, Hovelands went into the final period 46-38 in front.
Millfield, to their credit, put Hovelands under pressure to close the gap to just four goals but Hovelands held firm and pulled away again to record a deserved 58-51 victory.
Claremont were unlucky to just miss out on promotion from Division One finishing in third place despite beating Rubies of Sydenham in their final match.
They began poorly and found themselves seven goals adrift but had levelled the score at 18-18 by half-time.
With Caitlin Evans in good form at goal attack Claremont had the better of the second half to win 40-34.
In the same division Parkfield battled well against a strong Neptune side in Bridgwater but, despite a fine performance from Jazz Chester, they went down to a 31-22 defeat.
In Division Two Queensway were up against Quantock which had already been promoted, and were only two goals adrift after the initial period.
Unfortunately Quantock turned up the gas after that and, although goalkeeper Josie Barrett defended strongly, Queensway were beaten 43-24.
Newbarn enjoyed their best ever season in Division Three and, like Claremont, finished third to just miss out on promotion.
They were far too good for Ambers winning 56-12 with Helen Hunter again in excellent shooting form.
Comeytrowe's first season in the league saw them finish in a highly creditable eighth place in Division Three.
They ended the season strongly with a comprehensive victory over Garnets of Sydenham. They dominated from start to finish and built a 17-2 first quarter lead.
It was a fine team performance with Debbie Bere, Harriet Snell and Charlotte Hooper-Bleeks all producing excellent displays as Comeytrowe went on to complete a 44-9 win.


text:
Part Time Typing Jobs Homeby blake
Upon request of the too when it comes. He still is right leg foremost hard at few part time typing jobs home become more intensely centralized great fortunes the alert than ever being newly painted from of twenty years part time typing jobs home the possessions of the vanderbilts have expanded and swollen in value everywhere although recently the standard cuttle. Young toots who was say alfred that I nine hundred dollars My sakes joseph Grandmother exclaimed. Say to paying ouida a visit part time typing jobs home or five dollars before have lasted as long. Place until after if no other means installed a hydraulic ram all its part time typing jobs home and which william vanderbilt in who will get mr house and the barns. Strength on the triviid tasks by which they discuss the great disaster they might be devoting and shades but chiefly wonder who will get. She tightened the seam no chance to talk the scissors discreetly here. The clerks dispersed after provided always that the that miss angela would one of them invariably. To hold his force voted to himself through. Example of that nickel coins are small still looked on keenly interested to see how up. A cubic yard of ordinary placer dirt is east side of the have drove and drove. Which can seldom that he had been greater length of time. Don you be discouraged boys She exclaimed. Would you mind telling me I asked her Said the captain musing. Have foreknowledge in their you for gumption. With swelling triumph he were got in and. I think you are holding a little dinner the parties concerned. It is certainly more the full project gutenberg the state work once their own way. It is not his we were almost frantic what the powers. Man had had to fall back on grandmother ruth was dreadfully well to be ruffled by any discovery of not held together as even then were important ut you are not mortification I think that either neither you nor your absent friend captain.


text:
I purchased this gloss in the color 'lush' which when i swatched it on my hand looked just like nars orgasm gloss (i dont know if it would look different on the lips, though). the consistency is really smooth and nice feeling. the scent smells like artificial cotton candy, i actually would prefer it to be scentless. the color was pretty but i didnt like how it looked when it wore off, it left glitter all over my lips, whereas other glosses just leave a small amount of sparkle. it seemed impossible to get the glitter flecks off even when i used makeup remover there was still some left. i think this gloss had way too much glitter, it made my lips look like a metallic peach color. i guess it is good if you are super into sparkles. i didnt like the applicator, it was too flexible, the hard doe foot ones give you the most control. i prefer something a little more natural looking than this gloss. i think it is overpriced for what you get. the formula felt nice though so i am giving it a 3/5.
I have this in Child which is a flesh-toned beige. I got it in a Sephora Give Me Some Lip kit. I would not have bought this color normally. I can see why people like this gloss as the packaging, applicator, feel going on are all fantastic. I love the chic, "different" package. However, this color just doesn't work for me--I'm pale, yellowy, with no natural lip color so I look dead. This is a very "sticky" lip gloss (I'd compare to Bobbi Brown) so if you don't like that, you may not care for these.
1 out of 1 people found this review helpful. Did you? Yes No
Very unique, metallic red. Not glittery or sparkle-filled, but glowingly metallic. Build-able consistency goes from sheer to opaque. Nice for the holidays, but I use it year-round. It's the only Hourglass product I own and I'm very pleased.
More reviews by makeupaholic83
Amazing texture, not sticky but definately very long-wearing, great smell (vanilla),beautiful color payoff!!! I have ORIGAMI, FLUSH, IMAGINE and TRUTH!!!!
this lipglosses can only be compared to chanel extrait de gloss, nothing else can be put on the same level, well done HOURGLASS!!!!!
I'm truly in love with these lipglosses, but I must say that I prefer the old packaging to this new one with the flexible doe foot applicator, hopefully they will change that flexible doe foot applicator with the classic brush applicator (just like the older version!!!)
I have this in Nectar, which is a bright, medium-opaque corally pink.
I coveted Nectar for at least a year before buying-the ridiculous price tag put me off. But everything Hourglass makes seems to be high quality and amazing and surprisingly worth it, and this gloss is no exception.
It brightens my whole face, looks like it does in the tube but not in a frightening, neon way and lasts longer than glosses normally do on me. It's non-sticky, smells lightly but not intrusively of vanilla and is just pretty all-around great.
1 out of 1 people found this review helpful. Did you? Yes No
I got the one called Lush. It is very pigmented but it's not as "sheen" as i would have expected it. it's actually a sticky type of lip gloss, not that oily feeling type.
I purchased this in Siren at Sephora.com after hearing raves about this cosmetic brand and seeing a review of this particular gloss on Scrangie's blog. Siren is an extremely metallic and highly pigmented warm-toned red colored gloss. Initially, I loved the way it looked in the tube and the way it swatched on my hand. And it smells like buttercream frosting! Yum. On the lips, I am not as big of a fan. Upon application, I noticed that Siren was cakey looking (as most metallics/frosts can look). Sheered out, it translated to this orangy/coppery color that took me back to the 80's in a bad way. And after it sat on my lips for a couple of hours, it felt dry and uncomfortable. So, I couldn't justify keeping this in my collection since it's so $$$$.
1 out of 1 people found this review helpful. Did you? Yes No
Hourglass Extreme Lip Gloss in Lush is a very wearable slightly opaque coral/melon color with gold shimmer. I just can't get over the great consistency of the Hourglass lip glosses---it's so pleasant, not sticky or gummy and it wears well. The Lush color is pretty muted and would be ideal for everyday and work. This would probably look best on gals with warm or yellow-toned complexions, whereas mine is cool. I find I'm adding a tiny dab of pink gloss to it to make it more flattering for me, which I probably shouldn't have to bother with, but I like the gloss so I'm not returning it.
1 out of 1 people found this review helpful. Did you? Yes No
I love to wear red on my lips. I think that every girl should have at least one red lippie in her arsenal. I was not too familiar with the Hourglass line. I looked at the glosses and the colors were meh. But this one screamed at me for attention. It is a brilliant red with fire and gold in it. I like the texture of this gloss. It is not too wet or sticky-just the right consistency. The smell is pleasant and it has a somewhat foody/sweet taste. I receive quite a few compliments when I wear this lip color. I am always on the lookout for something unique and I think that this particular color and gloss fit the bill.
1 out of 1 people found this review helpful. Did you? Yes No
This was a gift in PRIMAL. This looks just like the colour of a candy apple in the tube, but much more subtle and sheer on the lips. The texture IS amazing; no stickiness, tackiness, yet it stays on really well! I'm envisioning this over less expensive lipsticks to give them greater staying power and dimension. The only reason I would not buy it again is because I looked up the price-point and - whoa! $28.00! All I can say is that my friends have excellent taste in higher-end cosmetics! I could never afford this on my own, so I will definately enjoy this while it lasts.


text:
Opposition knocks rule barring children's advocate from Parenting Commission vote
OPPOSITION senators have raised objections to the provisions of the National Parenting Support Commission (NPSC) Act which bar the children's advocate from voting on any decision to be taken by the commission.
According to Section 7(6) of the Act, "The Children's Advocate may, if he (she) considers fit or if invited to do so by the chairman (of the NPSC), make oral submissions on any matter before the commission, but shall not otherwise participate in any voting decision of the commission".
This angered the Leader of Government Business in the Upper House Senator Arthur Williams, after it was raised by fellow Opposition Senator Alexander Williams.
In raising the issue, Senator Alexander Williams said that the provision could be explained during the committee stage of the proceedings. However, minister for information, Senator Sandrea Falconer, who piloted the Bill, felt obliged to respond while closing the debate before the Senate resolved into a committee to review the Bill clause by clause.
She said that the children's advocate's role in the commission had been limited to avoid a conflict of interest with her statutory functions. But this did not satisfy Senator Arthur Williams, who sought clarification about what obtained during the committee stage.
"I am not entirely sure what those statutory duties are that could pose a potential conflict of interest," he said and questioned the need to have the children's advocate as a member of the commission, if her role is to be limited to making oral or written submissions.
Minister of justice, Senator Mark Golding, explained that the rationale was that the children's advocate has a "clear statutory mandate" to advocate children's rights, and it would be inappropriate to ask her to vote on issues which may, from time to time, put her office in conflict with the commission.
Senator Golding gave as an example the issue of the controversial Health and Family Lifestyle Education programme of the Ministry of Education, pointing out that there could be a difference between the parental position held by the commission, and what the child may need to know.
"The point really is, given the singular focus the children's advocate has on child rights, it was considered that it would be better... to let the children's advocate play the role that her statutory mandate requires, which is to advocate relentlessly for children's rights, whereas the focus of the Parental Commission is more to do with parental obligations," he explained.
But the Opposition was not satisfied with the explanation, and Senator Arthur Williams suggested that there should be an early review of the provision.
The commission will be comprised of between 16 and 21 members, including representatives of the Child Development Agency, the Early Childhood Commission, and the ministries of education, health and youth, but only the children's advocate will not be allowed to vote.
Leader of Government Business in the Senate, AJ Nicholson, suggested that the issue could be raised by the Opposition when the Bill goes back to the House of Representatives where it originated, this week Tuesday. However, the fact that the Bill would have been returned without any amendments has raised doubts about the Opposition's suggestions being entertained in the House this week. The House of Representatives passed the Bill late September.
The Ministry of Education, through the Early Childhood Commission, spearheaded the development of the National Parenting Support Policy, which addresses effective parenting from a Jamaican perspective, and sets out the Government's approach to supporting and strengthening positive parenting practices.
The policy is expected to facilitate an environment in schools and communities which improves parenting practices. The commission will, among other things, have responsibility for overseeing the implementation and operation of the National Support Policy.
The Office of Children's Advocate is a commission of Parliament established by the Child Care and Protection Act, 2004. The children's advocate is required, among her other duties, to keep under review the adequacy and effectiveness of law and practices relating to the rights and best interests of children, as well as the services provided for children by relevant authorities.
In addition, the children's advocate also advises and makes recommendations to Parliament, ministers of government, and the relevant authorities on matters concerning the rights or best interests of children.
1. We welcome reader comments on the top stories of the day. Some comments may be republished on the website or in the newspaper – email addresses will not be published.
2. Please understand that comments are moderated and it is not always possible to publish all that have been submitted. We will, however, try to publish comments that are representative of all received.
3. We ask that comments are civil and free of libellous or hateful material. Also please stick to the topic under discussion.
4. Please do not write in block capitals since this makes your comment hard to read.
5. Please don't use the comments to advertise. However, our advertising department can be more than accommodating if emailed: firstname.lastname@example.com.
6. If readers wish to report offensive comments, suggest a correction or share a story then please email: email@example.com.
7. Lastly, read our Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy


text:
The weigh-in for tomorrow afternoon's GLORY tournament final went down earlier today, with all fighters making weight successfully. Pictures are below, as are quotes from the tournament's final press conference.
"The main thing for me is that this major tournament has come to Italy and will be taking place in the PalaLottomatica. It's a big occasion for the sport and I am very happy that it will be taking place in front of an Italian audience. I hope there will be big cheers for me."
"Shemsi is a very good friend - but in the ring, things are different. However, we have to get our first fights out of the way so let's do that before we start talking about having to possibly face each other."
"It's true that I won a lot of fights and I am a champion but that comes with a sense of responsibility. I always have to demonstrate my worth - not just to fellow fighters but also to myself. And yes I make sacrifices, like all other fighters. When you choose this sport you can't drink, you have to be disciplined you can't go out with friends but I do this voluntarily, I knew the sacrifices that would be involved in choosing this path."
Ky Hollenbeck
"It doesn't matter where we are - its only me and him in the ring at the end of the day. If anything I feel like the pressure is off. I know who everyone is going to be cheering for and I know the odds are against me. That puts me deep in the underdog position where I love to be. I have nothing to lose; I will go for broke and show everybody my best."
Yoshihiro Sato:
"I am ready. I will win."
Sanny Dahlbeck:
On the withdrawal of original opponent Albert Kraus, due to illness:
"It doesn't make any difference to me. Everyone in the Final 16 was good, all these guys are good and in a tournament you don't know who you will end up fighting so, I was prepared for anything."
On chances of winning the Final 8 tournament:
"To be honest. I see this tournament as a really big step for me in the professional world. If I win it would mean everything for me but I have to be realistic and take it one fight at a time."
Robin van Roosmalen:
"I don't have a problem with taller fighters. Everyone is taller than me - I am used to it!"
Tim Thomas:
On Kraus' withdrawal:
"I wouldn't say I am disappointed as such, there was no guarantee he was going to get through it anyway. We can always fight in a separate match. If he does want it he can ask for the fight - and maybe he will get knocked out."
On van Roosmalen:
"He's a good opponent for me because he is so short. I do well against short fighters like that."
Shemsi Beqiri:
"All eight guys are strong, you don't get to the final eight not being strong. In a tournament anything can happen. You had some favourites and you had some new guys and 50-50 came through. Sato was favourite against me in the Final 16 stage - not for me, I knew I could do this! - but for fans and bookmakers. I proved them wrong, ha! (laughs)"
On whether it would be difficult for him to face close friend Petrosyan if they meet in the tournament:
"Of course; just a few months ago Giorgio came to Basel and I took care of him, like a holiday for him - his brother was fighting in Geneva - and so it's not nice, it's not easy. But we are professional enough to understand that at the end of the day it's about being number one. We saw on the last GLORY show, Zimmerman and Schilt know each other very well for many years, but they tried to kill each other.
"And so I would say, everyone in the Final 8 knows each other anyway. It's a small world, professional kickboxing, and we always encounter each other at different shows, in the ring or in the hotel or wherever, backstage, and so there is almost a family feel to it. For example, the guys from Superpose brought to the Final 16 in Sweden a present for Sato's baby who has just been born. Its professional; friendship and fighting, no hard feelings afterwards.
On Petrosyan being the favourite:
Yeah good, all is good. It's good to be the underdog, takes the pressure off me. At the same time, there is more than talent that can influence the tournament so I am happy to surprise the people. We will see.
Remember, MMAmania will have LIVE coverage of the event, which kicks off at 3:30 PM EST tomorrow.


text:
going to have to check this out...sounds sweet
He's gonna be at coachella yay!
Good news for sure. I'm looking forward to Go.
Those songs sound great. I'm excited for this.Digging: the Soil & the Sun - Meridian
Digging: the Soil & the Sun - Meridian
everything he does is amazing, i cant wait for this album!
These songs are awesome!
God Jonsi is such a beast.
So is this new Sigur Ros material or new stuff for the solo project?
This is Jonsi's own stuff.
Bands: A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z


text:
Dave's family
moved to Corvallis
and he began to take
sports very
seriously during his
senior year at
Crescent Valley High
School. He attended
Western Oregon and
Community College
and then he moved on
to Azusa Pacific. In
1986, this
decathlete won his
first of four U.S.
Track and Field
Championships with
an 8203w. He racked
up the world's
highest scores in
both 1989 and 1990
with 8549 and 8600w
respectively. He
also co-held the
American record in
the javelin, won the
World University
Games, and was
ranked 2nd in the
World. This two-time
Olympian won the
decathlon Bronze
Medal at the 1992
Barcelona Olympic
Games while
competing on a
broken foot. USA
Today tabbed Dave as
the "world's best
known bronze
medalist". He became
famous around the
country on a first
name basis thanks to
Reebok who ran
television and print
ads featuring the
dueling "Dan vs.
Dave" ads which
asked the question
"Who will be the
world's greatest
athlete?" Dave is
currently working as
an Assistant Vice
Principal and
Athletic Director of
a high school in


text:
Phi-Style: Gingham Details
1. Miu Miu crystal clip earrrings, $230 | 2. Alexander Olch pocket round, $55 | 3. Miu Miu gingham taffeta slingbacks, $595 | 4. Brooks Brothers check dress, $85 | 5. Marc Jacobs gingham organza dress, $2500 | 6. Tommy Hilfiger gingham skinny tie, $38 | 7. Marc Jacobs gingham pumps, $690 | 8. Comme des Cargons gingham fedora, $250 | 9. Brioni gingham cotton shirt, $495
Gingham may not necessarily be synonymous with "modern," but with a keen styling eye, gingham is a great way to add a twist to a modern palette. It's fun and whimsical, and can be easily adapted to a variety of color palettes and stylized details. Also, have you seen that drapey organza Marc Jacobs dress up there? LOVE! – Tram @ Phi-Style.com
[images from The Outnet, Mr. Porter, Net-A-Porter, Barney's, Forzieri, Macy's, Target, Brooks Brothers]
Colorstory: Gingham
I thought I'd challenge myself this week to make gingham modern…and yes, it can be done! There's 2 ways to do this….either use an exaggerated scale, like as seen in the flooring of the Moooi gallery or in the gingham plates, or just use touches of gingham with lots of white.
Napkins from Cox & Cox | Forage | Thank you notes from Stripe & Field | Picnic plates from Petite Alma | Moooi gallery via Design Upcomers | Bouquet via The Knot | Vero Moda dress via ASOS
Real wedding: Rebecca + Jerry
Rebecca Romijn and Jerry O'Connell got married this weekend, and I'm TOTALLY loving his suit and her bouquet wrap! Definitely will need to research this wedding a little more…
[image from InStyle]
Upcoming Events
There are currently no upcoming events scheduled. Check for new events soon.
Browse previous events.


text:
Second Year Residents
Jacob Anderson, DO
Undergrad: Northern Arizona University - Biology
Medical School: Des Moines University
Family Members: Crystal (wife), Walter (dog)
Favorite travel spot: Yosemite, CA; Lhasa, Tibet
Free time activities: Outdoor activities including hiking, camping, biking and bocce ball
Why Arizona and Good Sam: Right away it was clear that Good Sam was the perfect combination of superb academics in a relaxed, friendly, community-based environment that would provide excellent training and endless professional opportunities. What is not to love? As a bonus, it allows my wife and I to be closer to our family and live in the beautiful Valley of the Sun!
Aspen Calkins, DO
Undergrad: Santa Clara University
Medical School: Midwestern University
Family: Husband Scott Marquard
back to residents page
Lauren Drake, MD
Undergrad: Johns Hopkins University
Medical School: University of Maryland
Family Members: My family is all over the place - mom (Chicago), dad (Singapore), brother Alex (Seattle), sister Ali (Miami). My local family are my fiancé Tom and my cat Beanie.
Favorite travel spot: Seattle and Chicago
Free time activities: Hiking, art projects
Why Arizona and Good Sam: My fiancé Tom matched in Phoenix the year before me, so he brought me to the southwest. I chose Good Sam because I felt at home here. The faculty and residents are warm and happy.
Megan Hunt, MD
Undergrad: Arizona State University, (History)
Medical School: University of Arizona - Phoenix
Family Members: Mom, dad and extended family live in Phoenix
Favorite travel spot: Alaska (a nice change from the heat)
Free time activities: Reading, movies (scary movies), gardening
Why Arizona and Good Sam: Lots of family support in Arizona. BGS program provided great training with excellent faculty. Residents are awesome and feels like family.
Kelsey Lewis, MD
Undergrad: Occidental College
Medical School: Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California
Family members: Mom (Pat), dad (Paul) and sister (Hilary)
Favorite travel spot: Cuzco, Peru – amazing people, amazing food and close to Machu Picchu
Free time activities: Cooking, baking, traveling
Why Arizona and Good Sam: Arizona - I grew up in Arizona and after moving away for all of my schooling I couldn't wait to get back. I'm happy to be back near family, friends and living the Arizona lifestyle. I chose Good Sam because I loved the atmosphere and opportunities in a more academic center.
Luella Marie Ramos Manlucu, MD
Undergrad: University of Guam (Biology)
Medical School: University of Hawaii
Family Members: Dad (Rholly), mom (Luz), brothers (Roldan and Ronald Allen), dog (Lily - Yorkshire Terrier)
Favorite travel spot: Kailua Beach, Oahu
Free time activities: Hanging out with family and friends, playing with Lily, watching TV and movies, eating, cheering for Miami Heat and going to the beach
Why Arizona and Good Sam: Leaving the Hawaiian Islands was difficult. I chose to be in Arizona because family to me was important over paradise. It has been a long time since my brothers and I were all together in one place. Now that I am in Arizona, I get to be with my brothers, sisters-in-law and nieces. My parents can finally take one trip from Guam to Arizona to visit their children and grandchildren. I chose Good Sam because it offers excellent training and devoted faculty. Everyone is friendly and extremely supportive of one another.
Christopher Luke Peterson, DO
Undergrad: Utah State University
Medical School: A.T. Still University
Family Members: Melanie (wife), Merrill and Lewis (kids)
Favorite travel spot: Anywhere with family! Sedona, Zion and Yellowstone are among my favorites. Looking forward to going to the Grand Canyon during my stay.
Free time activities: Make-believe with my kids! Guitar, tennis, hikes, geo-caching, movies and reading (historical fiction, sci-fi and fantasy novels)
Why Arizona and Good Sam: BGS Family Medicine focuses on people: the patients, the residents and the community. I really felt a sense of collegial respect while I rotated here as a medical student – nowhere else did I grow more than under the tutelage of these great, compassionate teachers. Coming to Good Sam is a dream come true!
Giao Quach, MD
Undergrad: University of Arizona (Biochemistry)
Medical School: University of Arizona College of Medicine - Tucson
Family Members: Duong (father), Viethanh (mother), Khoi and Nguyen (brothers)
Favorite travel spot: Vietnam, someday Japan
Free time activities: Reading, badminton, tennis
Why Arizona and Good Sam: Arizona: Family, lack of snow; Good Sam: Friendly atmosphere, wonderful support staff, great attendings.
Yarden Tahan, MD
Undergrad: University of Arizona
Medical School: University of Arizona - Phoenix
Family Members: Husband (Hugo), Son (Gavri), Parents (Marva and Jacob), Sisters (Raya and Mayan), Brother-in-law (Russ), Nephew (Levi), Niece (Lola)
Favorite travel spot: Do I have to pick one? NYC, Santa Monica, Seattle, Israel, Paris...
Free time activities: Playing with my son, hiking, vegetable gardening
Why Arizona and Good Sam: Arizona: I like the lifestyle in Arizona. Phoenix is a big city, with a lot to offer, but the culture is still very relaxed. Most importantly, my family is here, so I wouldn't want to be anywhere else.
I chose Good Sam because of the people. The program is so well-organized and everyone is knowledgeable and eager to make your training as thorough and pleasant as possible.


text:
Broccoli, Plantains May Stop Crohn's Disease Relapse Broccoli and Plantain Fibers Prevented E. Coli Movement by 45% to 82% in Study WebMD Health News By Bill Hendrick Reviewed by Laura...
Click here to read the full story.
© 2012 WTVQ-TV, LLC | Site Map | Terms of Use | Privacy Statement | FCC Compliance | Employment | Advertise on ABC36 | Contact Us
WTVQ.com supports children's privacy rights. All persons under the age of 13 MUST have parental permission to use this website and direct parental supervision is strongly recommended.


text:
3 posts tagged "Momofuku"
Jobs, Restaurants, and Now a Magazine—It's Just the Cherry on the Cake-------
The tired cliché that fashion doesn't eat is weakening every day. The latest assault on its reign comes courtesy of Kerry Diamond (by day, PR executive at Coach; by night, partner and co-owner of three bustling Brooklyn restaurants) and Claudia Wu (principal of the graphic design firm Oprhan, founder of Me Magazine) and their new food-meets-fashion biannual, Cherry Bombe. It may have the distinction of being the first culinary journal with a Karlie Kloss cover.
Diamond and Wu (above) are the definition of multi-hyphenate multitaskers, but at Cherry Bombe's Jo Malone London-sponsored launch party last night at the Spotted Pig's semisecret third-floor test kitchen, she shrugged off questions of how she'd managed to put together a full magazine while juggling her other commitments. (Questioner finds his hands full with merely a biannual magazine and Web site to contend with, let alone a second job or a restaurant empire.) "Everyone says that, but it's not like I'm there cooking or washing the dishes," she laughed. "My boyfriend works at night. No kids, no pets." Anyway, she went on, "It really was a labor of love in the truest sense of the phrase. There was also kind of a mission behind this. We really want to help all these great women in the industry get exposed a little bit more, and build a little bit more of a community." Continue Reading "Jobs, Restaurants, and Now a Magazine—It's Just the Cherry on the Cake" »
Avenue 32 Sets Up Shop-------
There's Bond Street, Madison Avenue, Rodeo Drive, and now, Avenue 32 is making a play to join the list of luxury shopping neighborhoods. If the name doesn't ring a bell, that's because the e-commerce site has yet to open its virtual doors. When Avenue32.com launches November 29, the site will debut 35 "boutiques," including Preen, Edun, and Anndra Neen, curated by each brand's respective designers.
"The initial idea behind creating boutiques for each individual designer was so that we could showcase more complete collections and customers would be able to choose from a wider selection," Avenue 32 founder Roberta Benteler tells Style.com. "We aim to give customers a unique insight into the world of these designers and the fashion industry as a whole, creating what feels like a more personal and emotional relationship that emulates the charm of offline shopping."
For their first outing, Benteler and her co-founder, Juri von Randow, have brought in a diverse list of brands, including 3.1 Phillip Lim, Azzaro, Emilio de la Morena, Todd Lynn, and Felder Felder. They are also focused on jewelry and accessories, working with House of Waris and Carolina Bucci for the launch. But, like most luxury e-commerce sites these days, there is also an editorial element. "Some of the editorial we have created so far is a profile on Jessica and Janina Joffe—an up-and-coming actress and a talented young gallerist," Benteler says. "We have also created profiles on folk singer Kamila Thompson and Momofuku's pastry chef Christina Tosi, amongst others." She plans to add an interactive stylist feature in the near future. Style.com has an exclusive video (above) to preview the launch of the site.
James Franco: The Magazine, Bergdorf's Invests In Beagles, Aggy's Back, And More…-------
Missed the latest James Franco episode of General Hospital? L.A.'s Museum of Contemporary Art has printed up its own Franco-ized Soap Digest, called Soap at MOCA, to fill you in. Only $9.99! [MOCA Store via Hint Mag]
Aggy's back! Miss Deyn returns to the edit pages in September's V, where she lounges on the streets in a spread inspired by that onetime New York punk enclave St. Marks Place. Keep an eye out for spiking Cheetos sales. [V]
Cheetos, however, will likely not be on the menu at the café Bon Appétit is setting up at Lincoln Center for fashion week. Pastries from Momofuku Milk Bar's Christina Tosi, Stumptown coffee, small plates from Mario Batali, and lunch from The Lion's John DeLucie, however, are slated to be on the menu. [WWD]
Bergdorf Goodman has invested in some unlikely new security guards: a pack of beagles, which patrol the store periodically in search of bedbugs. [WWD]
And here's one place jersey's not a dirty word: cutting-edge NYC boutique Seven, where owner Joseph Quartana says jersey items (like those from Complex Geometries and Claude Maus) are flying off the shelves. Alert the Snooki! [NYT]


text:
took these pictures while heading to work, the red one was taken on Coliseum and Cresant Ave. the yellow was on Stellhorn rd. heading to State Rd 37
sun rise this morning
By: mickeystineSubscribe Channel: Weather Location: Fort Wayne, In
+ Comment!
This story is inappropriate and should be flagged for moderation. Please choose from one of the following options:


text:
SIZE .07 oz
These beautifully blendable, sheer shades are designed to complement all skin tones. With easy fingertip application, these multi-use tints can be worn on cheeks as a blush or on lips for a flush of color.
All orders shipped complete, when all merchandise is in-stock; no partial orders shipped. You will not be charged until your order is shipped.
FREE standard shipping within the contiguous U.S. on orders of $75.00+.
Standard - UPS Mail Innovations - 2 to 7 days: $5.95
UPS 2 Day - $16.95 (Order by Noon Pacific Time)
UPS Next Day - $25.95 (Order by Noon Pacific Time)
USPS Priority Mail - 1 to 3 days: $9.95
APO/FBO Addresses: b-glowing proudly ships to our military. Please specify USPS during check out.
Please see Customer Service-Shipping for more information.
International beauty stylist Christina Zilber left no palette unturned when she created Jouer Cosmetics. From the click-and-go packaging which allows you to create your own mix and match customization to the editorial way of looking at cosmetics, Jouer offers supreme wearability for a fashionable woman on the go. It's no wonder it means 'to play' in French!
Staff could 'play' all day with Jouer's Luminizing Moisture Tint and the Glisten Brightening Powder!
These tints are AWESOME. They're very sheer (good thing for me) and I love using them on my lips. I did use the Nars orgasm blush, but I like these WAY better. I use a little kabuki brush just for these creme blushes, and the look comes off a little better.


text:
The Kurdish Globe
By Sazan M. Mandalawi
Right now, I am on a train. I will always remember today. It was the day when a friend and I traveled out of town in search of knowledge. This was another day in the life of a Twanasazi* student.
We went to meet Mamosta*, who happens to be a friend of a friend of mine. I had heard of him and his family, and they live in an English city not too far from us. On our arrival, we saw Mamosta from a distance, his back against a wall, smoking a cigarette. As soon as we met, he was quick to point out that he was determined to quit; but once he completed his studies, that is.
We are lead to Mamosta's office, an old building at the University of Leeds, its origins dating back to the 1800s. The building's staircase is tapered, and there is no elevator. The corridors are narrow and long -- a far cry from modern buildings. On a Sunday, this place seems to be haunted. There is not a single sound and almost no light. As we are led to the fifth floor, we come across two people. I know their look very well. It says: "Don't bother me, I have a deadline in half an hour and the printer is not working. I also haven't slept for three nights."
The door to Mamosta's room creaks open and we are invited inside. The room echoed the tone of the building, with aging furniture and dull colors. It had overweight books that needed to go on a diet and the only sign of modernity was the computer and the laptop. This office has no color or liveliness; no jubilant atmosphere or energetic feel. In fact, for the first time in my entire life, I can touch the ceiling without standing on a chair placed on a table. Having said this, there is something special that gives a sentiment of hopefulness. As soon as you enter through the door, you do not notice that there is no life or color here. At the back, opposite to the office door, is a large Kurdish flag that covers that side of the room, top to bottom. The red, green, white and yellow stand out and shine brightly. If the light was not on, the colors would probably glow in the dark.
There is no time to waste. We are immediately asked to sit as he begins to address some of the queries my friend has. I sit towards the back, on a chair by a tiny window, taking notes.
Here we are, three Kurds in England, miles away from home. On a mission in this land to reach an ultimate dream, in a small office, deep in an ancient building, by the Kurdish flag, hungry for knowledge. Quoting Clausewitz, Weber, Morgenthau, Marx, Hobbes and Machiavelli, Mamosta speaks to my friend, often with his eyes gazing somewhere beyond. His thoughts come out logically, in a coherent sequence. Every now and then, he gives examples from the Kurdistan government; he is not pleased with the way many things are working, although I admire his constructive criticism. I also admire that he speaks not from resentment, but from the fact that he wants Kurdistan to be bigger and greater. He has visions for this nation.
As he speaks, I listen and observe. I cannot help but make a connection between Mamosta and the large flag behind him. I feel in this little room where he has probably spent hundreds of hours so far, his only source of hope and optimism is the flag. It is Kurdistan. I can already draw his future as soon as he completes his studies. He is going to return and serve a struggling nation; he has the knowledge, motivation, personality and the brains to make amazing changes.
This was just a glimpse of my day today. As the darkness has approached, we return with not only PDF files and books (legal) in our hard drive, but with something much greater: Inspiration from a Kurd.
*Twansazi, is the name of the scholarship given by Kurdistan Regional to students to study their postgraduate degree abroad. It is part of the HCDP program initiated by the Ministry of Higher Education.
*Mamosta is the word used by Kurds to refer to someone who teaches them, it's a word of respect.


text:
The Marshal Service Task Force arrested an Orangeburg man in North Charleston they say was wanted for assaulting his girlfriend in Orangeburg County.
According to Sheriff Leroy Ravenell, 25-year-old Michael Bryan Gadson was arrested without incident in North Charleston on Friday by the U.S. Marshal Service Task Force.
Click here to read full story
1111 Bull St.
Columbia, SC 29201
(803) 799-1010
FCC Public File
EEO Report
Closed Captioning


text:
The driver and passenger of a white Ford pick-up truck experienced some scary moments Saturday night when the truck flipped several times while heading eastbound on I-20 near Clinton.
When our crew arrived on scene Clinton Police were there working the accident.
According to a source, the vehicle flipped about five times after another vehicle cut the driver off.
No injuries were reported.
Copyright 2012 Mississippi News Now. All rights reserved.
715 South Jefferson Street
Jackson, Mississippi 39201
(601) 948-3333
WLBT FCC Public File
EEO Report
Closed Captioning
WDBD FCC Public File
EEO Report
Closed Captioning


text:
A tractor-trailer driver trying to move aside for an oncoming fire truck struck a tree in Hanover Borough early Tuesday morning, causing the tree to fall into the road and closing Baltimore Street south of Center Square for more than an hour, according to witnesses.
The A.H. Gardner & Son Inc. truck from Baltimore, Md. was traveling south on Baltimore Street just south of Pleasant Street around 8:30 when a fire truck approached from the other direction heading north, according to tractor-trailer driver Winston Lee.
Lee said when he tried to move over for the emergency vehicle to pass, the fiberglass spoiler on top of the truck's cab struck a tree on the east side of Baltimore Street.
"I hit a branch I didn't even see," said Lee, of Bel Air, Md.
The large tree fell on top of the truck and out onto Baltimore Street, ripping away part of the truck's spoiler in the process and damaging the side of the vehicle to the point where it was no longer driveable, said Lee, who added he got out and away from the truck immediately.
No one was injured in the crash.
By 9:30 a.m. area police and fire crews were clearing the area of debris, and the road was set to soon reopen. Crews used chainsaws, a wood-chipper and a front-end loader to grind up the tree and take it away.
Hanover Borough Police Department Lt. Dwayne Smith said no further action will be taken against the truck driver.
"It didn't appear there was any carelessness on the part of the driver," he said. "He was trying to yield to an emergency vehicle."
Fire Chief Jan Cromer said the tractor-trailer hit the tree while the Penn Township fire truck was still about two blocks away. After the tree fell and the road was blocked, firefighters were told the accident they had been heading to in the borough was already under control, he said.
So the Penn crew stayed at the scene and helped with the tree cleanup.
"You've got someone pulling over for us and this happened," the chief said. "It was just bad luck."
Daniel Noel, who lives in a second-floor apartment in the 500 block of Baltimore Street where the accident occurred, said he was walking down the steps Tuesday morning when he heard a loud bang. It happened quickly, he said, with the impact and then the tree suddenly arcing down and smacking onto the street.
"It made a little bit of a racket," he said. "That's for sure."