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Yet, with the truth of Einstein's quote widely acknowledged and taken for granted, how is it that entire societies keep doing the same thing over and over again but expect different results?
On issue after issue – economy, foreign policy, defense, environment, education, etc, – the manner in which governments address them continues to provide proof for Einstein's Theory of Relative Insanity.
Another proof is to be found in the US presidential election.
The electorate will vote for a representative of one of the two political parties. An analysis of what these parties have accomplished during their
respective reigns reveals an unbroken track record of failure … failure ranging from the catastrophic to the abject. Thus, to vote for either presidential candidate and to expect something other than failure is, by definition, insanity.
Why will so many people vote on Election Day when they know they will not get what they really want?
Not only will they settle for less, many openly acknowledge that they will be voting for the "lesser of two evils." How can people justify voting for an evil and actually believe that any good can come of it? Lesser or greater, evil is evil. Yet, not only do they justify it, they will argue that their evil candidate is better than your evil candidate and become furious when you don't see it their way.
In America, it is an article of faith (drummed into our heads since childhood) that voting is a privilege and a duty and if you don't vote you get what you deserve. Personally, I deserve better than a lesser of two evils and will not demean myself by voting for one.
Nor do I consider it a dereliction of duty. Just the opposite. It is by not voting that I register my vote of "No Confidence."
Not voting is not necessarily a sign of apathy, it's a positive statement in repudiation of a failed and corrupt system. Only when enough people vote "No
Confidence" can the system change. To perpetuate the same system and expect different results is insanity.
A Plague on Both Your Parties Whenever I recommend not voting as anact of protest, I receive a spate of emails attacking me for my unwillingness to
participate in the insanity. I do not regard the choice between the "lesser of two evils" as democracy in any sense of the word.
Thus my 2012 Presidential Campaign slogan: "Stay Home. Don't Vote." If less than 40 percent of the electorate turns out, the numbers will prove how
disgusted the citizenry is with both parties and demands for substantive change and true democracy will become impossible to ignore.
SOURCE: http://www.trendsresearch.com/reports/Autumn12TrendsJournalPreview.pdf
Gerald Celente, Publisher "The Trends Journal"
This interview was conducted in September and October 2012, via email, by Joe Ramsey. The responses below were co-authored by Terri Lee and Mark E. Smith.
Joe Ramsey: Do you think that it's correct to describe the U.S. as a "democracy" in 2012? How so or how not?
The definition of a democracy is a form of government where supreme power is vested in the hands of the people. In such a government, the final say on everything, including fiscal and foreign policy issues would be up to the people to decide by a direct vote.
Obviously we don't have that kind of government, in fact both the Bush and Obama administrations were explicitly clear that they would not allow public opinion to influence policy decisions, so rather than having the final say, as we would if we the people had supreme power over government, we have no say at all. A republic is also a democratic form of government, but in a republic the people exercise their supreme power over government through their elected representatives rather than directly. But in order to exercise power over our elected representatives, we'd have to be able to hold them accountable and we can't.
The best we can do is ask them to hold themselves accountable, and they don't seem to want to do that–in fact they tend to grant themselves immunity and/or pardon themselves even for flagrant Constitutional violations and war crimes.
JR: What exactly are you calling for? And what's your motive for doing so?
We're calling for a boycott of the 2012 election. The reason for this is that only a major party candidate has any chance of winning, and both major parties are dependent upon big corporations to fund their election campaigns, so both would represent Wall Street rather than Main Street. We already know that however people vote, the election will result in more trillions spent on foreign wars while domestic needs go unmet, and more bailouts for banks that deserved to fail due to their irresponsible investment schemes. When you know the results of an election beforehand, it isn't really an election and doesn't deserve the consent of the governed.
JR: Why do you believe that people should boycott the Presidential election?
There are many reasons. Back in Bush v. Gore 2000, the Supreme Court said that there is no Constitutional requirement that the popular vote be counted. If they don't have to count the votes, we don't have to cast them. Most voters don't think that our government has been doing a good job. Retaining or even promoting employees who don't do their job is a sure way to lose your business, unless, of course, you have a corrupt government to bail you out. Our government only bails out the rich, so only the 1% should vote for it.
JR: What has been the response to this boycott call so far?
The response has been mixed! Some naturally gravitated to the Election boycott as they had already been quietly boycotting presidential elections for years. Others are attached to elections and hold on to the illusion that it has something to offer. For others still, there was lack of clarity about the Election Boycott.
Our first task was to clear up some misunderstanding about the 2012 Election Boycott.
Some think that the Call to Boycott 2012 is a 'call for apathy' and ask "How can you make a difference by not participating?" They view the boycott as lazy and irresponsible 'inaction' and view voting as 'participatory'. In fact, nothing could be further from the truth. Those ideas are completely reversed: The Election Boycott is a call for Direct Action and requires much more effort, coordination and effort than the simple "two minutes it takes to pull the lever" (Howard Zinn) required to vote.
Some say: "Boycott the Two Parties!" or "Boycott the Corporate Candidates!". This, of course, is code for 'vote third party' which is what the left has been accustomed to doing year after year with no results to show for it. The alternative party presidential candidates and the voter both know — in advance and with absolute certainty — that third party candidates have absolutely no chance whatsoever of sitting in the Oval Office. Ever. And yet the left circles around them agonizing as to which non-viable third party candidate to choose from.
JR: Who else is involved in the campaign?
Mark and I are working closely with Boycott author and speaker, Linh Dinh as well as the blog owner of Proletarian Center for Research, Education and Culture
The Proletarian Center has officially endorsed the Boycott 2012 campaign.
Author, syndicated columnist, cartoonist and Election Boycotter Ted Rall has provided several 'boycott cartoons' for the Election Boycott campaign.
Mark and I have been the radio guests of Bob Carson of Carson's Corner, Cindy Sheehan's Soapbox Radio, and Dave Fletcher's Public Reality Radio Show.
A great audio for Election Boycott Skeptics can be found here: The Election Boycott show on Bob Carson's radio program, "Carson's Corner".
JR: What would it mean to succeed in a campaign like this? What do you think that this campaign can accomplish? What has it accomplished so far?
Success would be a clear demonstration by means of a historically low turnout, indicating that most people do not feel this government represents them.
JR: Is the goal to delegitimize the existing so-called "democratic" system? What kind of change would you like to see in our current political situation?
People often say that others fought and died for our right to vote.
That's not exactly correct. What people fought and died for was a voice in government. What we'd like to see is a democratic form of government where power was vested in the hands of the people.
Uncounted, mostly unverifiable votes, for candidates who don't let public opinion influence their policy decisions and who can't be held accountable while in office (which is the only time they're supposed to represent their constituents), are not a voice in government.
JR: Do you conceive of your efforts as an attempt at pressuring for reform, or more as laying the basis for a more revolutionary movement? Do you think that the US political system can be reformed, or will it have to be overthrown? How can a boycott of elections contribute to a more radical political shift?
The boycott is a revolutionary rather than a reformist movement. We don't want government to grant a few privileges here and there–a more benign tyranny so to speak–we want government of the people, by the people, and for the people.
JR: Is it simply the limited offerings or bad policies of the two major parties that you object to, or is it something deeper that is at issue here? What do you see as the fundamental nature of the problem we face?
The problem we face is that no matter who is in power, the US is only has two major growth industries, the military-industrial complex and the prison industrial complex–killing people and caging people.
Derivatives and other fraudulent fiscal schemes always crash, so we need a sustainable economy that isn't based on killing people or caging people but on making the world a better place for people to live in. If we can get to the moon and send a surveyor to Mars, I think we could manage something that easy. Other countries have and we're not really less intelligent or less competent.
JR: According to recent polls, very significant numbers of Americans are not planning to vote in the upcoming election. This includes an even greater percentage of young voters. Why is that?
When you have lackluster candidates and nothing to gain from voting, it makes sense not to vote. Even without the election boycott movement
2012 is likely be a historically low turnout for a presidential election. We certainly don't need more parties–I think that what young people are saying is that the party's over and that they'd like to go to work so that they can have a decent life.
JR: Do you see the Democrats as "the lesser evil"? How so or how not?
Let's say you have the Devil himself, Satan, running for President on the Republican ticket. The Democrats nominate a little demon from Hell, who is obviously a much lesser evil than Satan. Unless you look a little closer and understand that the demon takes his orders from his boss, who happens to be Satan. So there is no lesser evil. When corporations spend billions of dollars funding the election campaigns of both major parties, they consider it an investment and they know they'll get trillions back in government contracts and bailouts no matter who wins. Corporations aren't exactly known for their philanthropy, they have a bottom line to consider and a fiduciary duty to their shareholders.
Why would they spend billions of dollars funding the campaigns of candidates who will only have about a $400k salary once in office?
With Citizens United, they can spend as much as they want. But supposing they spent billions of dollars getting out the vote for the major parties and nobody voted–do you think their boards of directors would let them do it again?
The Official Website of the Call to Boycott the 2012 Election: www.electionboycott2012.org
Mark E. Smith's blog, Fubar and Grill
Mark's blog post "You've Got to Stop Voting!" has escalated from 1,000 views to over 15,000+ hits over the past month! and his most recent blog, "Jill Stein: Lesser Evil" is quite provocative!
]]>DIRECTIONS: LOG ON TO SKYPE AT www.skype.com Then search for "Terri Lee" to participate in the ELECTION BOYCOTT SKYPE CHAT!
A US think tank said that Americans should boycott the upcoming US elections rather than choosing between bad and worse, because the policies of the US presidential rivals, (US President) Barack Obama and Mitt Romney pursue the interests of the one percent rich instead of the ordinary people. http://english.farsnews.com/newstext.php?nn=9107113266
]]>The Green Party is anti-war. A Green Commander-in-Chief would have to make at least a pretense of attempting to stop some of the wars. But that would incur the wrath of every member of Congress, as they all have military bases and defense contractors that provide jobs in their districts, and most are also heavily invested in defense stocks. It would incur the wrath of the Pentagon, the CIA, and every defense contractor in the country. It would incur the wrath of our foreign allies who count on the US to support their dictatorships (Bahrain, Saudi Arabia) or help keep their people suppressed by constantly training terrorists, sending death squads all over the world, and staging false flag operations to keep everyone in a state of fear. Hundreds of countries rely on the US for military aid and derive income for their oligarchies by allowing US military bases on their soil. Stein could posture and gesture about peace, but any effective action would result in her assassination and she knows it. Of course she could compromise her principles and that of her party in order to stay alive and pretend to stay in power, but she couldn't end the wars. Not that she cares about Green Party principles. One of the Ten Key Values of the Green Party is decentralized government, so it is hypocritical for Greens to run candidates for election in a centralized government.
But in seeking to get on the ballot and get enough votes to qualify for federal matching funds, Stein is helping the big corporations, banks, and defense contractors in their multi-billion dollar campaign to get out the vote for continued corporate rule. The turnout in 2012 will be extremely important. Many people have predicted that it will be a historically low turnout for a US presidential race, due to the fact that the major party candidates are widely disliked, even within their own parties, and there is no possibility of hope or change. Still, whoever is alleged to have been elected will claim their mandate, the consent of the governed, from the entire turnout, not just from their own voters. Every vote for a third party candidate like Stein is the consent of the voter to be governed by the system in power right now, under whoever is alleged to have won the election.
I say alleged because we know for a fact that millions of votes go uncounted in every US presidential election, and that there is no way to verify the results, even if the Supreme Court allows the popular vote to be counted by easily hacked and totally unverifiable central tabulators, most of which this year will be owned by a private corporation in Spain. But people who believe in the system are willing to take the announced results on faith. It doesn't really matter to them who wins, as long as the capitalist imperialist system continues in power.
So this year it isn't Democrats or Republicans who are most viciously attacking the Election Boycott Movement, it is Green Party supporters of Jill Stein. If people don't vote, how will they get their corporate federal matching funds? That's a lot of money–about forty times what they spend getting out the vote. So what if the drone bombing continues? Greens want that money and they're not going to let a little genocide stand in their way.
This year, say the Greens, you don't have to vote for one of the two major evil Party candidates, you can vote for a true lesser evil, somebody who doesn't intend to win and is in it only for the money–a reluctant imperialist, but a true capitalist.
And those of us in the Election Boycott Movement who don't intend to vote, who will not grant our consent to the capitalist imperialist system, are now the enemy of the Green Party Get Out The Vote campaign. Sure, they know they're getting out the vote for capitalist imperialism, for corporate rule, and to show public support for and consent to the system and the corporate party winner, but they have a goal and they're single-mindedly pursuing it. They want to seek power within the system, by growing their party, and they want to qualify for corporate federal matching funds. They don't care that the system is a bureaucracy that cannot be changed from within–they seek power and they want to be part of the system anyway. They don't care that in countries with proportional representation where Greens have gained political power, it has invariably corrupted them. They don't care about anything except the money.
Capitalism's lesser evil is still nothing more than a lover of the root of all evil.
Boycott 2012!
ORIGINAL: http://fubarandgrill.org/node/1456
"Voter boycotts have a long and honorable tradition in other countries. Don't believe the hype—they really care if we don't vote. Why do you think tyrants like Saddam held regular elections? They were the only candidate on the ballot, but th ey craved electoral legitimacy. Same thing here. Imagine if only 5% of Americans voted. It would send the message that we disapprove of our government. If only 5% voted, 9/11 might never have happened because Al Qaeda could never have argued that we agreed with US foreign policy. The UN would view us for what we are, the oppressed citizens of an authoritarian police state. Most importantly, it would create the space for a new political movement—space currently being taken up by the duopoly.
Let them bomb innocent Pakistanis without my endorsement."
"Palestinians should refuse to participate in elections while public freedoms are suppressed, former minister and detainee Wasfi Qabha said Tuesday." http://www.maannews.net/eng/ViewDetails.aspx?ID=513626
"Some activists boycotted the election, calling it illegitimate or claiming that the ruling Supreme Council of Armed Forces (Scaf) would rig it in favour of Mr Shafiq." http://www.thenational.ae/thenationalconversation/comment/low-voter-turnout-showed-egyptians-mixed-emotions
"One off-limit subject is the call for an election boycott. RWB says: "Those who mention the boycott, such as opposition groups on social networks, are immediately sanctioned." http://www.guardian.co.uk/media/greenslade/2012/sep/04/journalist-safety-belarus
"The Democratic United Party pushed ahead with its second primary vote in the southeastern city of Ulsan on Sunday despite the boycott of the election by three of the four contenders."
"The Islamic Action Front political party in Jordan has denied that it has pledged to review its position on an election boycott."
"Namibia: NDP Threatens to Boycott Sibbinda Election"
"Libyan Tabu tribe threatens election boycott."
"Morocco: Stop Harassing Election Boycott Advocates"
And now in the US, too!
The Call to Boycott the 2012 Presidential Election is experiencing a spike in interest, enthusiasm, activity and actions. In this post I will provide for you some of the updates currently taking place with regard to the 2012 Presidential Election Boycott!
The site is very comprehensive and expands daily as the movement grows with new actions. To learn more about the Boycott and to comment visit www.electionboycott2012.org
LINH DINH author of the COUNTERPUNCH ARTICLE, "Time to Boycott the Election" http://www.counterpunch.org/2012/08/14/time-to-boycott-the-election/ presented the case to Boycott the Presiential Election on PRESS-TV, here : http://wwwwsonneteighteencom.blogspot.com/2012/08/americans-should-boycott-election.html
3. THE PROLETARIAN CENTER FOR RESEARCH, EDUCATION, AND CULTURE HAS OFFICIALLY ENDORSED THE PREZ BOYCOTT! The blog post regarding the Boycott endorsement can be found here: http://prolecenter.wordpress.com/2012/09/17/boycott-the-2012-election/
4. CINDY SHEEHAN HOSTED A PRESIDENTIAL ELECTION BOYCOTT NATIONAL CONFERENCE CALL ON HER SOAPBOX : "Thinking Outside the Ballot Box!" The audio to the program is here: https://prolecenter.wordpress.com/2012/09/17/cindy-sheehans-soapbox-thinking-outside-the-ballot-box/
And A-Infos Radio Project and others posted the audio, too: http://www.radio4all.net/index.php/program/62932
Have a listen:
(The Boycott interview begins after the intro at about 5:00)
We here at Carson's Corner in conjunction with Underground Progressive, 530 AM, have waited a long time to have online activist Terri Lee on the program. Followed and admired by thousands, Terri Lee has come to the forefront of progressives who are fed up with Obama and the Democrats. We see the two political parties as essentially indistinguishable; and we are not afraid to go against the establishment to ensure a better America.
*NOTE: Proletarian Center for Research, Education and Culture has officially endorsed the call to Boycott the 2012 Presidential Election
Just in: OUR IDEA IS HOT HOT HOT AND CATCHING ON!
"Workers and progressives may finally realize that change happens through collective action, not electoral politics…" – Truthout
]]>Whereas both major political parties have sold out to the Wall Street banks and multinational corporations with no allegiance to the Nation or the people, Whereas third parties have no possibility of winning the Presidential election due to corporate control over the media and the electoral process, Whereas three decades of solid efforts to reform the electoral process have been subverted by the corporate state, Whereas participation in this process lends legitimacy to a system that has lost its legitimacy, We hereby refuse to vote in the 2012 Presidential elections.
So it seems that the substance of the anti-electoral position is limited to (1) bourgeois, major-party candidates, in (2) the Presidential (as opposed to more local) elections. The question is whether boycotting the elections is a viable alternative political strategy. In order to explore this question, I talked to Terri Lee, a veteran activist for economic justice and co-administrator of the group "Declare Your Independence from the Democrats!" Terri is also a member of the Boycott Elections Facebook group mentioned above.
POLITICALCONTEXT.ORG: Why should American citizens boycott the 2012 Presidential elections?
Terri Lee: Boycotting the presidential elections would be a notable act of rebellion and defiance. The Establishment effectively draws in the public and engages them in the 'horse show' and political theater of elections. Voting serves them, not us. They work and invest millions to keep us attached to an immoral, rigged, corrupt, electoral process which is both a scam and a sham. I support Wally Conger's Anti-Electorate Manifesto: "We, the Anti-Electorate, do not believe there is a need for "strong leadership" in government. We are not drawn to 'intellectual' authorities and political 'heroes.' We are not impressed with titles, ranks, and pecking orders – politicians, celebrities, and gurus. We do not struggle for control of organizations, social circles, and government. We do not lobby the State for favors or permission to control those with whom we disagree. Rather, we advocate freedom. By its very nature, the State does not. Exercise your right to say 'No' to the warfare-welfare system. Refuse to vote. Then tell your friends why."
PC: Should citizens boycott only the Presidential elections? What about candidates down ballot? Senators? Representatives?
TL: Well, the presidential elections garner a lot of attention and so it could be very effective if registered voters resisted going to the polls as a loud, clear form of protest. Voters could publicly burn their voter registration cards and expose the system for the corrupt system that it is. We can deem it unworthy of our participation. We could demonstrate the integrity of the collective by refusing our participation and resist.
PC: Even more to the point: Should I vote for my city council candidates, local judges, public hospital board members, and school board members? Why them and not the President of the United States? What's the bright line?
TL: Here's something to consider. Let's take electing your local mayor. The mayor lives in your community. You may see him or her at your local grocery store, gas station, post office, school or park. You live and work with one another and you share a community. It's easy to have access to your mayor — you can go to his or her office. If residents are upset, the mayor has to face the outraged citizens rather directly and intimately. The farther out you go the more distant, detached, insulated the elected official is. Citizens have to use their own judgment on this, of course, but it seems to me that for where we are now loud public resistance to the presidential elections is a good place to start.
PC: Let me play devil's advocate: The Obama administration will not enforce the Defense of Marriage Act. A Republican administration would. Under Obama's health care reform, a few million people might have a better chance of accessing life-saving medical treatment. Under a Republican administration, that won't happen. Aren't you sacrificing gay rights and sick people on the altar of political purism? Aren't you saying "sure it's okay if a few hundred thousand people die, or there are fewer civil rights for gays, as long as I make my politically purist point?" How would you answer arguments like that?
TL: Well, I don't agree with the premise of your question regarding the Democrats and the Republicans, but I understand your point. It seems to me that you are suggesting that it is slightly more important to vote Democrat than to vote Republican due to that thin bit of difference — so, why not just go to the polls and pull the lever for the Democrats because it could do 'some good' for 'some people'. So if you calculate a 'least harm' and 'most benefit' ratio, hold your nose and just vote Democrat, yes? I turn to journalist Glenn Greenwald who most eloquently expresses my view on this (not about not-voting, but rather about the point that it's 'slightly better to vote Democrat than Republican so be a reluctant voter and vote Democrat'):
GREENWALD: You know there's abeen lots of people who make radical critiques of hte government who — like Noam Chomsky, Howard Zinn and others — who have said 'as horrible as the Democrats are the fact that they are even a little bit better than the Republicans means that it's important that they win and not Republicans because with an entity as powerful as the United States governmetn even small differences can make meaningful differences in the lives of millions of people.'
And so even though there's tiny little differences between Democrats and Republicans — and they're both evil and corrupt in their own ways — that it's important to continue to elect Democrats, they've argued.
That to me was an argument that was somewhat persuasive — for awhile.
And what I've actually decided and concluded instead was that even if there are short-term benefits to electing Democrats — as opposed to Republicans — so you get a Sonya Sotomayor on the Supreme Court instead of an Antonio Scalia, for example — something like that.
That's a benefit that'll sway some case and it's bettr [inaudible]….um, there's also experent costs to pledging your loyalty to a political party and to contine to support it even though it's in this extremely corrupt and destructive expression.
And so it's not just the benefit that needs to be weighed, it's the cost as well, knowing — as party leaders do — that many liberals are convinced (and that many people on the left are convniced) by this reasoning [the Democrats] can continue to ignore people on the left, because they know that at the end of the day they'll scare enough of them to with scary images of Michele Bachman or Newt Gingrich or whomever…they'll continue to support [the Democrats] even though they're ignored adn they get nothing.
And they'll be ignored and get nothing forever.
That's a huge cost.
Another cost is the opportunity cost of doing activism for a political party that doesn't care at all about you.
Instead of using your money and time on more meaningful changes.
So that, I think, is the ultimate formula that needs to be evaluated. The ultimate weighing of costs and benefits that needs to be assessed — not just 'well, there are some beneifts to the Democrats, therefore let's vote for them."
[Ask, too] what are the costs from continuing to support and prop up this party and having them know that they can take the support for granted and putting our time and energy into that rather that something more significant that can achieve something more enduring and more fundamental with longer-lasting benefits.
And so that's the calculation that, to me, has swayed me away from that view [of Zinn and Chomsky].
PC: What about third party candidates (e.g. the various socialists) who admit the Presidential elections are largely meaningless in the substantive sense, but who run candidates for President in order to take advantage of the electoral process in order to get the message out about their party, their beliefs, the crisis of capitalism, etc.? In boycotting Presidential elections, are you also "boycotting" the way in which those third party candidates use the elections as a platform for their message?
TL: The third party candidates can still campaign — in fact, that's their function in this scam of a system: to simply run. In their campaigning they expose the injustices in the system and the seriously flawed positions of the candidates. And, at the end of the day that's about it. Inherent in the system design (including the domination of corporate monies) third parties and third party candidates are unable to establish an alternate party or see a candidate to victory. We know it, the third party candidates know it and The Establishment knows it too. Boycotting presidential elections does no harm to them because there was no chance for victory from the onset.
PC: What reforms of the electoral process, specifically, would have to happen before you'd stop calling for the boycott?
TL: We would need to take out all the elements referenced by Noam Chomsky when he speaks of presidential politics (paraphrased) as: "the big-money big-media candidate-centered narrow-spectrum electoral extravaganza the masters stage for us once every four years". Simply put, we have to get the corporate money out of elections, level the playing field, implement publicly-funded elections, and institute Instant-Runoff (IRV) voting. (And while we're at it and dreaming a bit, a parliamentary government with proportional representation would certainly be a step in the right direction.)
PC: If voting makes no difference, why does refusing to vote make a difference? How is your gesture any less symbolic and meaningless than voting?
TL: Excellent question! Voting is the status quo. It's desirable to The Establishment to have us follow these silly elections, to have us believe in the illusion of choice, and to have the public think "that's politics" and busy ourselves with phone banking, fundraising, canvassing, etc which is all FOR THEM! Intentionally, purposefully, and loudly not-voting is an act of defiance. A refusal to partake in the immoral, illegal, corporate dominated, money-serving system in which voters are pawned.
Refuse to partake. Refuse to vote. Declare abstinence from the corrupt system that they designed and want to draw us into. How liberating! Let there be a ballot-box revolt in which all the polling stations are empty and quiet on Election Day 2012!
LINKS: http://www.zcommunications.org/should-progressives-boycott-the-presidential-elections-by-matt-j-stannard-interviews-terri-lee


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Bioinformatics » bioinf2
Parsing and relating trustworthiness and significance
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Recent Comments:
Microsoft pulled Halo announcement for a stupid reason {Joystiq}
Jul 17th 2008 3:07AM Epic Fail Microsoft.
Listen to the WoW Insider Show, episode 7 {WoW}
Oct 16th 2007 5:52PM Love these podcasts, great discussions. I was especially intrigued by the Paladin vs. Druid discussion. I gotta kinda disagree with you guys on this point.
I think it's Druids that constantly bitch about not being able to do everything like gods. Paladins have been stuck in the healing role for so long that I feel sorry for them more so than anything. I refused to touch a paladin up until this year, and after 40 levels, I gotta say it's a great class, and they really deserve a bit more in the Ret/Prot tree.
I myself have a 70 Warrior and Shaman, and from my perspective, and as a healer/tank/DPSer, I've run into more druids who consider themselves superior to warriors as tanks, superior to rogues/mages as DPS and superior to paladins/priests in healing.
Just my two cents.
Time to play banish that game mechanic {WoW}
Aug 28th 2007 11:30AM I agree, no more raids please. I'd like to enjoy the game and still have a life.
LGC07: Kojima-san introduces Metal Gear Solid 4's boss characters {Joystiq}
Aug 23rd 2007 9:11AM Oh now I see. 90% of Jem Alexander's posts are Sony related. Great....a Sony Fanboy's writing for Joystiq...that's what this place needs.
LGC07: Kojima-san introduces Metal Gear Solid 4's boss characters {Joystiq}
Aug 23rd 2007 8:56AM The constant use of "Kojima-san" REALLY annoys me. You're writing for an american website in english...use Mister/Mr.
Joyswag: BioShock Xbox 360 faceplate & t-shirt {Joystiq}
Aug 21st 2007 4:16PM Joystiq rules. :D
First impressions: Wrath of the Lich King and Utgarde Keep {WoW}
Aug 4th 2007 1:34AM I was expecting a hint at a new expansion at BlizzCon, not full blown news of level cap raises, instances, zones, and most of all not a Hero Class, but I'm still glad that there's more of the Warcraft Universe for us to explore.
I think it is idiotic that a 25 man raid will be able to fight, and maybe even kill Arthas, but that's a different discussion of its own. It sounds like blizzard is learning from both WoW and BC and trying to improve upon something that works, and adding as much polish to it, as well as trying some new things along the way. By the time WotLK is out, Kara and Zul'Aman will be PUGable, and most people who have any urge to raid will have explored them, if not more, so I think it'll be released just as the majority of players begins getting a bit bored with Outland...hell I already am.
Azeroth Interrupted: A plea for tolerance {WoW}
Jul 30th 2007 12:52PM Ok first of all, those children, the music, and the 666 are all part of one giant easter egg related to Friday the 13th. Don't like easter eggs? Get over it. Afraid of a satanic symbol? Get over it. It's a joke in a damned video game, it's not Blizzard trying to convert people to satanism. I hate it when religious zealots get offended at ridiculous things. There are millions of other things wrong with the world that they should be getting offended by and trying to do something about, but no, those people always find that one completely inconsequential thing to bitch about.
I know I'm sounding harsh, but I'm sick of crap like that, and it's my opinion. That topic would've never turned into a flame war if the guy had never complained about something so stupid. There was a topic on my own server about it that had like 500 pages worth of people laughing and getting cheeped out by it together, THAT's what Blizzard intended for people to do with it, not try to exorcise their WoW CDs.
I totally understand that religion is an important part in some people's lives, and that's fine, just as long as their views don't impact my gameplay experience. If you're offended by the kids, or warlocks in the game, or hell I don't know....OUTLAND? Then stay away from it; It's as simple as that.
Sony's Three Speech launches podcast, takes cheap shot at Major Nelson {Joystiq}
Jun 26th 2007 10:26AM Three Speech is crap, and so is Sony. It's part of their troll-esque marketing strategy because they obviously can't win by having the superior content anymore, so they do the same thing any little bully does: Start picking on people.
Sony is synonymous with Pathetic.
Nifty maps of Outland zones {WoW}
Jan 3rd 2007 3:09AM 1. You don't know what a Titan is.
2. You don't know what a Nathrezim is.
3. You don't know a goblin zeppelin when you see one?
4. Six Outland Zones?


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M –22 House Springs, MissouriUnited States
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Excellent video! I know there are a lot of people chompin at the bit to stay at this resort when it opens....including me
DVC Member - My Home Resorts: BLT, BWV, BCV and VGC
Thanks for sharing.Bay Lake Tower has a really ideal location and room looks really stunning. I really love them. In the video view of swimming pool from room really outstanding.
Best Regards,


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We welcomed 3 new rez members this month: Stefan B., Tim B. and Bill Y.! These are the first new rez teammates to join the team since the beginning of May.
On Saturday July 9th, THUMB too part in BoMF Baltimore scavenger hunt. It was a closely contested battle to the end and THUMB took 3rd place! The following day some of our teammates took part in the Sweet Air Trail Race up in Baltimore County. This is a tough 7 – 8 mile trail run that is not for the faint of heart!
Some of our teammates also participated in the Back on My Feet Stroehman 20 in 24 in Philadelphia on July 16th. Mike H. ran two 8.4 mile loops and was really strong out there in the heat. He ran the loops in 1:02:33 and 1:04:01, respectively! Steady as can be!
There were several more great milestones achieved this month. Stefan B. got his 5 mile wristband also hit 10 miles with the team. Tim B. had a big first month receiving his 5 mile wristband, 10 mile hat and medal for running 5 consecutive miles! Bill got his 5 mile wristband with the team. Mike B. hit 250 miles with the team! Eric B. and Dave H. received their 50 mile medals this month!
Training for the Baltimore Running Festival has begun! We have teammates running the various distances. Some will be competing in the first marathon, while others will be running the half marathon. We will also have teammates running the 4 person relay and the 5k. October 15th is sure to be a special day for our team and the next few months will hold the hard work that will get us there!
Shoe size: 12
Member since: May 2011
Miles accumulated: 60.5
Best BOMF moment: Every day running with the team. They make me feel like I am running a marathon each time I am out there!
Biggest challenge with running: My age and the fact that my brain says one thing and my body can only do so much. Pacing myself is a challenge.
Goal in the next three months: I am going to run my first half marathon! I also want to get my license.
What do you think about when you're running?: Music. I have upbeat songs running through my head. I used to run with music, but I don't now with the team.
What's the next race you're doing with the BoMF crew?: Du the 2 Duathlon
"I can see that Dave is working very hard, not only on his running, but on many aspects of his life. He is very happy being a part of the team and I am excited to see how positive the team has been for him. He has his sights set on running his first half marathon and with his hard work and dedication he is sure to do great! I am thrilled Dave is part of our team and always look forward to seeing him at our morning runs." Rob Carfagno, team leader
Shoe size: 13
Member since: March 2011
Best BoMF moment: Looking back one of my most memorable moments was the Baltimore 10 Miler and the Friday pasta party. The Friday pasta party was my first opportunity to see the team dressed up and I enjoyed the chance to sit, talk, and EAT!!! Then on Saturday morning being in the biggest circle ever was so motivating, i was so proud to be part of BoMF.
What do you think about when you're running?: I usually try to focus on my surroundings and chat with the people i'm with. I enjoy running in the city because there is so much to stare at.
What's your next race with the BoMF crew?: My next race with the BoMF crew is the Baltimore Running Festival where I'll be doing the 1/2 marathon. I look forward to training with the team!
"Greg didn't waste any time jumping in to make a difference on our team. In the few months since his first run, he had made a big splash with many of the guys. Greg continually sacrifices his own running to support others on a regular basis and this is the essence of what Back on My Feet is all about. Greg could choose to run fast and far each morning, but he seeks out his teammates and helps them reach towards their goals, whatever the pace or the distance. He makes a big difference to many people on our team and I appreciate all that he does!" Rob Carfagno, team leader


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Determining a way forward for the Wirrabara and Bundaleer forests.
The Mid-North Forests – Future Strategy is exploring the potential economic and management options for the Bundaleer and Wirrabara forests.
The strategy sets out a way forward for the community to consider the future of the Mid North Forests ravaged by bushfires in recent years and is being progressed by the State Government.
Media release
Mid North Forests - Future Strategy
South East Forestry Partnerships Program - Industry forum
Primary Industries and Regions SA (PIRSA) is holding a industry forum on Tuesday 27 January to assist in the preparation of proposals for the recently announced round three $7 million of funds.
Mid North Forest Productivity Maps
Land productivity maps of Bundaleer and Wirrabara forests have been released by to assist local communities in providing feedback on the future use of the forest areas burnt in recent fires.
Media release
Bundaleer forest map ()
Wirrabara forest map ()
After extensive consultation, SAFIAB has released its Blueprint for the Future South Australian Forest and Wood Products Industry (2014 – 2040). The Blueprint offers direction for activities that can achieve significant economic, social and environmental outcomes.
Blueprint delivers opportunities to grow SA's forest industry
(24 Sept 2014)
Forestry is a growing business and South Australia is a leader in the way it establishes and manages its forests. Trees purposely planted for harvesting are known as plantations and can include a wide variety of species.
It takes between 12 and 35 years for trees to grow to be ready for harvesting. Wood harvested from South Australia's plantations is used for many things including house frame construction, infrastructure (bridges and buildings), fencing, furniture, bioenergy (such as wood for heating and power), and fibre for paper-making.
There is no harvesting of native forests in South Australia. All commercial timber production is from plantation forests.
The sector directly and indirectly produces more than $2.8 billion of economic activity for the state annually. In addition, about 200,000 people visit the state's forest reserves for recreation every year which adds to the tourism opportunities in the regions.
More than 13,000 people are directly or indirectly employed in the sector. Forestry employment is quite significant in the South East – making up about 35% of employment where the forestry and forest products sector contributes 28% ($759 million directly and indirectly) to gross regional product.
Forests are an important part of the global carbon cycle. Growing forests absorb more carbon dioxide than they emit and the only primary industry sector where this happens. South Australia is leading the way in its use of renewable energy as a share of electricity by 2020, with the proportion of wood waste currently burnt for fuel being ten times greater than solar energy production.
Farm forestry – the planting and growing of trees to complement agricultural systems.
Forestry research - forestry research projects and trials.
South Australian Forest Industry Advisory Board – an advisory board to provide advice and recommendations about the future strategic needs of the forests and forest products industry to the State Government.
Guidelines for plantation forestryForest health – managing pests and diseases that affect forests.
Forestry in the community – visiting forests and supporting the community for preparedness and rapid response to wildfire.
Forestry biodiversity and conservation – information about native forest reserves and biodiversity corridors (areas of vegetation that allow animals to travel from one native forest to another).
Forestry education programs – including Forestry matters! online education resource for primary and high school students.


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Items: | Total:
Novelties | Silverware | Belly Button Brush
Gentlemans Ball Scratcher
£11.99 [$17.99]
Chocolate And Strawberry Body Pen
£5.99 [$8.99]
For The Man Who Always Wanted a BIG ONE
£4.99 [$7.49]
For trade customers, please click to apply for an account.
Follow us online via our Facebook page for the latest news.
Read our latest articles and reviews on our latest products.
View various videos on our latest products on YouTube.


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Frequently Asked Questions
Why does the UW Alumni Association have a travel program?
Why travel with a group of UW alumni and friends?
I didnt go to UW, can I still sign up for a tour?
Who are the tour operators?
What makes UW Alumni Tours different?
How are flights arranged?
Are the tour prices and itineraries noted on this website final?
Are single rooms available?
What are the cancellation and refund policies?
What are the physical requirements of a tour?
How do I enroll in a UW Alumni Tour?
How do I receive a brochure for a specific tour?
How do I sign up for the travel E-newsletter?
What's the best way to contact UW Alumni Tours?
Why does the UW Alumni Association have a travel program?
Its all about keeping alumni connected to the UW and providing enriching ways to educate alumni about their world. After all, no one stops learning once they leave schoollife is one big classroom and what better way to learn about other parts of the world than traveling there!
Why travel with a group of UW alumni and friends?
Do you have a sense of adventure, a desire to have fun while you learn and a knack for making new friends? Then youll enjoy traveling with us! Traveling in a group lets you sit back and relax while someone else takes care of finding the best places to stay, dine and visit in a new destination. Weve done all the homework so you wont have to!
Plus, our past travelers have told us that one of the highlights of their trip is the camaraderie with fellow travel companions and how these friendships continue long after theyve returned home.
I didnt go to UW, can I still sign up for a tour?
Certainly! And you may bring your friends and family, too. Every UW tour is open to all UW alumni, their families and friends of the University of Washington. We dont even make you wear purple!
Because the UWAA is partly funded through membership and the travel program is part of our member benefits, we do ask that one traveler per reservation join the UWAA for the year of travel. Find out more about UWAA membership.
Who are the tour operators?
Our tours are run by professional tour operators that have demonstrated expertise in specific destinations. When we agree to work with a tour operator, it has met our criteria for financial responsibility, established reputation, professional staff, quality operations, and all-around dependability Learn more.
What makes UW Alumni Tours different?
Our travel team (Pauline Ranieri and Susan Cathcart) is available to help you decide if a tour is right for you and to assist you in working with the tour operators. Many ours are accompanied by either UW hosts or UW faculty lecturers who are there to help you get the most out of your travel experience. When possible, our hosts or lecturers also bring assisted listening devices for the group to use.
How are flights arranged?
There are a variety of options available for making air arrangements in conjunction with your tour. For most tours, travelers can make their own air arrangements, have a tour operator book an individual air schedule or take advantage of group air arrangements. Because air options vary from trip to trip and tour operator to tour operator, its best to refer to an individual tour for air options available for that specific tour.
Are the tour prices and itineraries noted on this web site final?
Often, we will have tour information on our site up to 18 months before a trip takes place. Because of this, itineraries, program details and costs do change and our website is updated as these details become available. Prices noted on tour pages are based on double occupancy and additional costs for single travelers are noted by the "single supplement."
Are single rooms available?
A limited number of single spaces (at an additional cost) are available on a first-come, first-served basis and vary from one program to another. You are welcome to let us know if you are a single traveler but would be interested in sharing a room. If possible, well put you in touch with other single travelers. Note: Oceania Cruise Line rarely offers special single pricing, so a traveler desiring a single room pays the double occupancy rate.
What are the cancellation and refund policies?
Tour participants are subject to the cancellation policies governing the particular trip in which they are enrolled. Cancellation policies are outlined on a tours brochure. Travel insurance is available through a variety of sources and is highly recommended.
Are we required to sign any forms?
Yes, all travelers are required to sign a UWAA release of liability and waiver form. Signing this form indicates that you've read all of the tour materials and fully understand the physical requirements of the tour.
What are the physical requirements of a tour?
All travelers must be in good mental and physical health, able to get on and off motor coaches on their own, and be able to keep up with the pace of the group. Participants who require special assistance must be accompanied by someone who can and will provide it. To assist you in choosing the tour thats right for you, our tours are rated by the following three categories:
- Mildly active: Easy pace, little walking, and little stair-climbing.
- Moderately active: Faster pace, substantial distances covered, extensive walking, and stair-climbing.
- Active: Involves long distances and/or extensive movement, walking, hiking, and/or stair-climbing.
- Very Active: Strenuous hiking and other physical activities.
How do I enroll in a UW Alumni Tour?
To enroll, you can call our office and provide the necessary information over the phone. Or, you can download our tour reservation form and either mail or fax in the completed form with a deposit.
- Enroll by phone - Call 206-685-9276 or 800-289-2586.
- Enroll by mail/fax - Download a tours reservation form (.pdf file) and mail or fax to UWAA Tours at 206-616-3863.
How do I receive a brochure for a specific tour?
Not all brochures are automatically mailed to everyone. To ensure that you receive a specific brochure, please send us a request by email or through our website. Brochures are generally available seven to nine months in advance of a tours departure.
- E-mail us your request to firstname.lastname@example.com.
- You may also request brochures or download brochure PDFs (not available for all tours) from our website.
How do I sign up for the travel E-Newsletter?
We publish a quarterly travel E-newsletter announcing new tours and special announcements. You may sign up for the E-newsletter by phone, email or by using our "Contact Us" form.
What's the best way to contact UW Alumni Tours?
You can use our "Contact Us" form on this site or reach us by mail, phone, fax or e-mail at:
UW Alumni Tours
University of Washington Alumni Association
Box 359508
Seattle, WA 98195
Phone: 206-685-9276 or 800-289-2586
Fax: 206-616-3863
E-mail address: email@example.com
Website: UWalum.com/tours


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Results 1 to 5 of 19
Thread: Future little niñas
April 27th, 2013 03:13 PM #1
Future little niñas
This is all just thinking for the future but I needed some distraction as my insurance changed the tier my BC was in and it now costs me $40. For 28 pills that turn me into an emotional blubbering idiot or a ranging hormonal lunatic. *breathing in and out slowly*
My names are all over the place style-wise. Popularity of a name doesn't deter me from using it. I had a strict "cannot end in a" rule because of my future last name, but I threw that out the window as I was finding it REALLY hard to find names I liked that didn't end in a. Also, (and this is a deal-breaker) the name HAS to be pronounceable in Spanish. So for example, I adore the name Bryony but in Spanish it's just bad. Very bad. If Spanish isn't your thing, just remember it's pretty phonetic and the vowels go ah, eh, ee, oh, oo (like in food)... every time.
From the list below, which do you like? Are there any you'd eliminate because you don't think they fit with the others? Any that you'd pair together? Any suggestions? Berries are name geniuses!
Cecilia (the meaning of this one kills me, but I can't get rid of it)
Amaia/ Amaya (another one where the meaning kills me, but it's so beautiful)
Kassiani (a bit of GP)
Madeline (not my favorite spelling, but the only one that gets it close for Spanish, and my aunt's name is Mady
Lior/ Eliora/ Liora
Aisha (someone mentioned in another thread not to use this name if you aren't Muslim... I don't want to offend people so if this is true, I can eliminate it... I just love the meaning.)
Sorry for how long this is...Last edited by dindlee; April 27th, 2013 at 03:16 PM. Reason: damn you autocorrect!
Mi corazón
Zoe Milena
April 27th, 2013 06:42 PM #3*Magnolia Alice ( Noli) / Evangeline Violet (Eh-vee)/ Adelaide Clover (Laidy)/ Athena Florence (Attie)/
Genevieve Winola (Vivi)/ Georgiana Marion (Gigi)/ Eugenie Marigold/Ottiline Hattie ( Tillie)*
*Osias Grey (Si)/Augusten Grey (Auggie)/Thatcher Hawthorne/ Ignatius Wesley (Iggy)/Hawthorne Flynn (Hawk)/
Beauregard August (Beau) /Fennec Inigo (Fenn)/Hugo Bosworth *
April 27th, 2013 06:54 PM #5Senior Member
- Join Date
- Jul 2012
- Location
- London, England
- Posts
- 5,339
First of all lots of hugs from one hormonal lunatic to another xox
I love that Vashti's on your list. Such a cool name and namesake! Others I love beyond the moon are Miranda, Lior (yay!), Cassandra, Noemí, Beatriz and Ophelia (Ofelia?). I also really love Cecilia. The meaning isn't off putting for me, what's really wrong with being blind? And the name's got such a long history from the ancient Romans, that adds to it's awesomeness in my opinion. And actually, as a Latinesse, the name means the way of the blind, which makes me think of somewhere safe, guided, soft... Zara is gorgeous and pleated in gold and rubies, Aisha is stunning. I don't know anyone who isn't Muslim who has this name though.
I do like your whole list, Dina, it's wonderful and you will surely have wonderfully named cutie pie babies! My brain's simply not working to well these days.
(When's your wedding, by the way? I have a feeling yours is around the same time as mine... (20th of July!))[FONT=Palatino Linotype][CENTER]My darling Marian Illyria Aphrodite, March 2013 & Little Bunny (a girl!) due 9th of February 2014[/CENTER][/FONT]
April 27th, 2013 06:58 PM #7
April 27th, 2013 07:12 PM #9Senior Member
- Join Date
- Mar 2013
- Posts
- 813
I love the name Amaya, how about Amaya Elinor?
This summer, I met some spanish girls, and thought their names (all of them) were gorgeous!
Alexandra (Ah-lay-han-dra) (I'm not actually sure if this is how she spelt her name) And she went by Ale (ah-lay) which was adorable
Lucilla (went by Lou), gorgoeous
Fernanda (went by Nanda or Fer (pronounced fair) )
Not sure if these are your style, but I thought they were gorgeous, especially Lou. If I ever have an excuse to name a future daughter Lou, I will!


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L. Dwight Baker, MD
Ratings based on 15 reviews
Reviews (15)
5 out of 5 stars Tummy Tuck
Ronda's 2010 Bodywork - Florida
I did quite a bit of research on my own before picking Dr. B and his staff. I had a clear picture of what I wanted and reasonable expectations of the outcome. I made sure I had help at home and someone to take me to follow-up appointments, which by the way were 2 hours away. The entire staff at Dr. B's were just wonderful. The hospital, which was Flowers Hospital, in Dothan, Alabama, were just as wonderful. Dr. B told me my surgery would be 5 hours long..well, in my case, there was a problem when he opened my chest...BOTH implant were ruptured and goo filled my chest. My surgery ended up being 9 hours long..but what a wonderful job he did. I had no idea that had ruptured and the 4 week old mammogram did not reflect a rupture, either. It took us all by surprise.
5 out of 5 stars Breast Implants
BA 2 Weeks Ago - Trying to Be Patient but Breasts Sit High in my Chest
Dr. and his staff have been extremley attentive and patient to all of my many questions and concerns
5 out of 5 stars Breast Augmentation
In the Army; Need Some Guidance :) - Alabama, AL
Dr. Baker was an easy choice for this procedure. On top of being certified by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons and American Board of Plastic Surgery, he also belongs to the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, which is not an easy task to find. He was also selected to participate in the Mentor Core Gel Study which served to gain the FDA's approval of silicone gel in 2006. Dr. Baker was extremely knowledgeable and friendly, and he suggested going over the muscle because I'm still in the military and can't afford to wait around for months to regain chest muscle strength to do push-ups. I'm glad he suggested this and am extremely happy with the results. The ladies at Dothan Plastic Surgery are so nice and always available to answer any question. Lord knows I've called them many times and each time they've treated me with kindness and caring. If you live far away and an make the trip to see this doctor and his staff for your surgery, you will not regret it. He is more than qualified to work on your girls and will give you amazing results.
5 out of 5 stars Breast Implant Revision
Great Surgeon - Dothan, AL
35yr Old Mom of 2 Ready to Inflate the Deflated "B"s (Barely) :) - Dothan, AL
Dr. Baker and his staff are wonderful. From answering tons of questions to squeezing me in whenever is convenient for ME for a consult 3.5 hrs away. I like that Dr. Baker isn't there to "tickle your ears". He's honest, and to the point. He's concerned about health, safety and family support, which I think says alot about his character. His reviews speak for themselves. We feel we've chosen the best place for my procedure!
Dr. is going to deflate the other side first to see if I like - Dothan, AL
Extremely sweet and kind. All the qualifications to make me feel safe.
5 out of 5 stars
Brandi Flores Breast Augmentation - Dothan, AL
After researching and asking his prior patient's I got my nerve up to get a breast augmentation. He never tried to pressure me into doing it and was very direct about what to expect from it. I had my surgery done at Flowers Hospital, and the staff was wonderful! The nurse told me about a procedure he did for a lady from Venezuela two weeks befor mine, and that made me feel more confident in him. I went up two cup sizes beautifully. I hardly have a scar and I have no ripples with my saline implants at all! I highly recommend D. Baker over any other doctor. He and his staff have been so helpful to me. Thanks to him, I now have more confidence in myself.
34A to 32DD/DDD 460 cc HP saline (.)(.) ( ○ )( ○ )
Awesome so far!
Finally Happened!!! - Dothan, AL
Dr. Baker is absolutely wonderful! He is a perfectionist and it shows. He was so patient with me and answered all of my questions.


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How does this all work?
(a.k.a. TRBO) is a Motorola Solutions branded DMR Radio.
MOTOTRBO has a few more
features than a standard DMR radio including IP Site Connect, which we use to network our
repeaters in the USA, Germany, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, Spain, Canada, Switzerland, Austria, Finland, Sweden,
Italy, Mexico, the United Kingdom, Romania, Chile, and The Netherlands, Hong Kong, Brazil, and France. When one person transmits, multiple repeaters
are keyed up on our network (like a reflector) without the user having to fumble through finding node numbers
or access codes. All of our repeaters are networked 24/7. Our network is 100% DMR digital with no analog connections.
Our network has some innovative features such as 2 slot communications, location finding,
and text messaging capabilities. DMR, as you will read more about below, supports 2 time-slotted
channels from one repeater. Many of our repeaters have time slot 1 linked to the national and international networks and
use time slot 2 for local and regional communications. This means each repeater supports 2 unique voice channels at the same time!
Our repeater owners and trustees constantly monitor network and repeater performance using several
diagnostic tools such as RDAC
and GW3-TRBO.
TRBO also has an extensive 3rd party Application Developer Program. These innovators design
many hardware and software accessories for the TRBO platform.
DMR (Digital Mobile Radio)
DMR is an open and published international digital radio standard that specifies the 2-slot (channel) TDMA communications. DMR is amateur radio's newest digital protocol. DMR radios are produced by several manufacturers and they all work on our TRBO system as long as they are Tier II complaint, as most are. DMR is not compatible with Icom's D-Star technology. Competition between manufacturers is a big reason why DMR radio prices are fair. DMR is here to stay since it is not a single manufacturer technology.
DMR also satisifies the FCC's narrowbanding mandate by being 6.25 kHz equivalent. It's actually more spectrum efficient than other 6.25 kHz modes since no guard band is needed for the two channels. Think of DMR as 1/3 the channel bandwidth of a 25 kHz analog signal with TWICE the number of voice channels. It also offers extended battery life, and did we mention it has superior voice quality over other digital voice modes?
Another advantage of most DMR radios is supurb RF performance. Many DMR radios have to satisfy both ETSI and TIA specs to perform in the most challenging RF environments. When you use a commercial radio for amateur radio you'll notice it has better intermod rejection, better selectivity, less spurious emissions, and it is mechanically a very well designed radio. Tired of the "turkey talk" and loss of signal sync from older digital technologies? Well, DMR (and in particular MOTOTRBO) has 2 layers of packet recovery: Forward Error Correction and Cyclic Redundancy Codes. DMR has better RF coverage than older digital technologies.
Could there be more? Of course there is! Motorola DMR radios feature roaming. Roaming works similarly to mobile/cellular phone technology. If you program your radio properly it will find the repeater with the best signal in your local area and without your intervention, it will roam to that repeater. Lately, distracted driving and safety have become very important issues. MOTOTRBO DMR allows you to focus your attention on driving and not on changing repeater channels. Roaming is used extensively in Northern California, New England, and Chicagoland.
How many DMR repeaters and users are there?
- There are many choices. Some radios have less functionality and are less expensive. Do some research on what radio is right for you. Make sure you purchase a 403-470 MHz radio NOT a 450-512 MHz UHF radio! You may use this link as a crib sheet to make sure you get the right radio when ordering.
- Mobiles: Motorola XPR4550 (DM3601), Motorola XPR5550 (DM4601), CM300d, Vertex VXD7200, or Vertex EVX-5400
- Portables: Motorola XPR6550 (DP3601), XPR7550 (DP4601), XPR3500, XPR3500, Vertex VXD720, or Vertex EVX-539
- Slim Portable: Motorola SL7550
- 1. Can I use the MOTOTRBO Anywhere app on DMR-MARC?
No. The app requires a $50,000 hardware gateway which we do not have. - 2. Do I have to buy a DMR radio to use the network.
Yes. - 3. Do I need a C-bridge to join the network?
No. Just apply to join the network and we will find a suitable master repeater for your peer repeater. - 4. Do I need to make a voice ID on the network or is a numeric ID legal?
According to USA FCC rules, one must identify with voice every 10 minutes and at the end of the call. Other countries may have more lenient requirements. The GSM ID on your radio is nonetheless, not a legal ID. - 5. Who is my local Motorola dealer? Do they offer "ham friendly" pricing?
Here are the dealers. These dealers, in particular, are known to offer great pricing for hams. (List courtesy of NO7RF) - 6. Are used radios available?
Yes. Ebay has some. - 7. Will my non-Motorola radio work on the network?
For voice calls, yes, for roaming and texting maybe not. Some alternative brand radios are Vertex Standard, Tait, Kenwood, RCA, Connect Systems, Hytera, Harris, Kirisun, Simoco, Sepura, and BFDX. As long as the radio is DMR Tier II complaint, it'll work on our network. - 8. Should I disable AGC on the network?
The majority of users should. Check the Audio Calibration link to learn more. There have been some criticisms of DMR audio but most of it is due to people who do not disable AGC. - 9. Can I make up my own talkgroups for use just between friends?
No. Only use the lakgroups listed on the Google Map on the Networked Repeater Page. You will end up confusing other users and using an unpublished talkgroup which is against the network rules, and possibly against federal regulations. - 10. Can I use a Hytera or Vertex repeater on the network?
No. Only MOTOTRBO repeaters interface to our network. We wish to use hardware that is compatible with our C-bridge, SmartPTT, RDAC, and other diagnostic tools. Our network is maintained by volunteers who spend countless hours to maintain a high level of reliability and don't wish to deal with more headaches from incompatible hardware manufacturers. You may however use any DMR portable or mobile radio. - 11. Can I connect IRLP, Echolink, Allstar, D-Star, or an analog bridge to the network?
You may not connect these to any DMR-MARC talkgroups including North America, Worldwide, Europe, Latin America, any of the worldwide language talkgroups, or any regional USA talkgroup. - 12. Can I loan one of my radios to a friend with my ID so he/she can try DMR?
Yes. - 13. Why should I invest in DMR over other digital alternatives?
Best RF Performance; Battery life; Number of Different Manufacturers; 2 voice channels from one repeater offer local, regional, national, and international talkgroups; and Great audio quality. - 14. Where is my nearest DMR repeater?
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My listing realtor has sold two houses in our neighborhood within 4-5 blocks of our house in the last 30-45 days. Both sold for $20-25k below our asking price. He did not show our house to these buyers. Our house is by the same builder and similar in age, sq ft, finish, rooms. We share the same neighborhood amenities/HOA. DOM approaching 100. I understand buyer personal preference, but can anyone think of a reason why he would not try to show our home to these buyers? He assures us we are not overpriced although we initiated a reduction. Great feedback from showings, just no offers - not even one we can work with. I am disappointed that two opportunities were missed, but baffled why our realtor would not show these buyers our house. Thoughts? |
Follow-Up Postings:
He might have tried and they might not have gone for it. Maybe they both had very rigid price points or maybe there was something about the location several blocks way they preferred or maybe they decided to go with the first house they saw that they liked or maybe those houses were empty or maybe one of them had some quirky detail like a purple upstairs bathroom that they loved. No way to know, but let's hope those sales heat things up a bit for your property. |
- Posted by adellabedella (My Page) on Mon, Nov 28, 11 at 15:05
Ask him. We had that happen with our last house so we asked. Turns out, it was a widow with four kids. She had a specific need for number of bedrooms. We had a room that could be used as a bedroom or a family type room. The other house better fit her needs. We had another house down the street that had been on the market for a year under our realtor that just wasn't selling. We asked about it. Realtor said the house had a lot of clutter. The owners wouldn't declutter or follow any of his suggestions so there it sat. Go ahead and ask the realtor why he didn't sell the house. There may or may not be something you can control about the situation. |
How do you know he didn't suggest your house to the buyers? In any event, I would ask the agent. There are certainly a myriad of reasons that a buyer could ask to see certain houses in a neighborhood rather than others. On the pricing if the other houses are similar to yours and sole for $20k to $25k less than your asking price, that raises other questions. What was the asking price of these other houses. If the asking price of those houses were significantly below yours then buyers could easily feel prefer looking at the houses listed for less. In any event, if those houses are so similar then the new sale prices seem to establish much lower comps for your house. Obviously it may depend on how $25k relates to your overall price. That is a difference in sale price to listing price is huge if a house is listed at $150k and is not that significant if a house is listed at $2 million (for example). If you want to sell more quickly you may need to drop your listing price to be closer to the actual selling price of these houses. |
We did ask. In the first case, the buyers were just short of the price point that the realtor thought we would sell at. (these are mid $400k homes) My thought was that with both sides of the transaction, the difference in commission could help close the gap to a point where we could at least negotiate. I was told it would not. Hmmm. For the second, the realtor said the buyer loved the layout and location, although it backs up to a 4 lane busy road and we back up to a park. I do understand personal preference, so that must have just been the house for them---but wish they could have just at least looked at ours for comparison. Realtor has asked us in the past if we would sweeten the pot with a bonus to the selling agent (outside of commission). Said it would increase traffic to our house. We said we would prefer to work directly with an interested buyer instead. So the implication is that the realtor can steer clients where they should look. If true, why wouldnt a realtor steer real buyers to their own listing....or at least guide them for a look. Just askin..... |
- Posted by live_wire_oak (My Page) on Mon, Nov 28, 11 at 18:27
What are you bringing to the table to make your home worth 25K more? Another bathroom and bedroom? A finished basement? A recently refinished expensive kitchen? Nothing? If someone looking for a home in your neighborhood can buy two houses, with one 25K higher, why even look at the higher priced one unless something about the lower priced one doesn't work? The big question is why you are priced 25K above your comps? That is why you aren't selling. When are you going to reduce your price by 30K? |
Most people dont look at homes in $25,000 increments. That is just too big of a gap, it puts them in a different qualifying bracket. If someone tells me they are qualified up to a certain point, I dont show them homes $25,000 out of that range unless I think its possible to get that house for their number. (if its been on the market for a long time, if the owner has moved on and the house is vacant). If your house is similar to the homes that he has shown and sold, then your price is too high. To answer your question, "why wouldnt a realtor steer real buyers to their own listing". There is no reason in the world that a realtor wouldnt want to sell his/her own listing if he had the buyer for it, but if your price is too high and he/she knows it and you expect him/her to reduce his/her commission to bridge your gap, whats in it for the realtor? Just sayin... (here comes the attacks) Everyone thinks commission is doubled when you sell your own listing. In a sense, yes, in another sense, no. Yes, you get it all in one check, but he can sell another house and another agent can sell your house and the amount of money is the same. It seems that people have this idea that if their agent sells their house, there is automatically a reduction in commission. Not true. |
- Posted by LoveInTheHouse (My Page) on Mon, Nov 28, 11 at 23:46
I think in this tough economy, agents are taking buyers to whatever they think the buyer wants so they can make sales. I don't think they're trying to steer buyers anywhere. They just want them to buy. I was thinking it's a price problem if the other ones sold for twenty-five thousand lower. |
- Posted by ncrealestateguy (My Page) on Tue, Nov 29, 11 at 6:46
So, your first response when your agent told you that the price point was too high was to lower his/her commission? Again, we agents can not sell homes... we market them with the greatest amount of exposure to ready, able and willing buyers. We can not force them to view your home. |
- Posted by GreenDesigns (My Page) on Tue, Nov 29, 11 at 12:10
You're looking for a cashmere sweater for your mom for Christmas. So you hike yourself over to the local Galleria where there are a bunch of stores that will sell what you're looking for. You go into TJ Maxx first, because if you can get a good deal on a name brand sweater there, there is no reason to go into Macy's. You find a sweater that's 90% perfect for what you wanted. It doesn't have the pearl buttons, but you're OK with the color matched ones because the sweater is only $75. You know from looking at their website that you can buy the 100% perfect sweater with the pearl buttons at Macy's for $200, but you're satisfied with saving that money to spend on something else. Your home is Macy's. The sold homes are TJ Maxx. You've got to price your house like TJ Maxx if you want to compete, or else throw in a "free" sleeveless sweater to make it a twin set for the higher price. |
The OP did say "He assures us we are not overpriced although we initiated a reduction. " So I'd like to know - who set the original asking price - the seller or the listing agent? And why hasn't it been dropped to reflect what homes are selling for in the area? |
- Posted by LuAnn_in_PA (My Page) on Tue, Nov 29, 11 at 15:29
"The big question is why you are priced 25K above your comps? That is why you aren't selling. When are you going to reduce your price by 30K? " Ditto that! |
If the other homes will be the comps for your house, you need to drop your price now, regardless what anyone says, or the appraiser will do that for you. |
The last house I sold, the realtor wanted to price it almost 40% higher than the point where I was satisfied it would move. I refused to even market it at the suggested price, and allowed it to go on the market at a point mid-way between our two figures. It wasn't until it hit the point where I initially wanted to list, that it sold. That being said..........I'd also like to know who came up with the initial sales price? I'd also like to know if you made any comments about being firm on that price? If I were in the market for half million dollar homes, I don't think I'd let 25K stop me from looking at your home, unless I had the impression the price was not negotiable at all. |
One question I don't think was addressed. What was the asking price of the 2 homes that sold for $20,000 - $25,000 less than your asking price? In my opinion if the asking price of them was the same as yours and they accepted lower offers you have a legitimate complaint about your listing agent. You now have 2 new comps to compare for your listing. |
She did mention that the one house backed up to a busy highway and hers backs to a park. That could make hers more desirable to many buyers. Well, unless the park is very busy and there will always be a lot of people hanging out right behind the backyard. |
- Posted by live_wire_oak (My Page) on Thu, Dec 15, 11 at 4:17
So, have you reduced your price yet? |
- Posted by ncrealestateguy (My Page) on Sat, Dec 17, 11 at 14:34
Again, your listing agent is not selling your neighbors homes. She is marketing it and the buyers are choosing these other homes over yours... for some reason. And that reason is the question that you and your agent need to figure out. |
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It was only a matter of time before Bradley County Schools Superintendent Johnny McDaniel and Cleveland City Schools Director Martin Ringstaff joined the conversation.
"The legislation presented by Gov. Haslam would not affect Bradley County [or Cleveland] at this time because we have no failing schools," McDaniel said. "[Haslam] is proposing the vouchers be used in systems taken over by the state for persistently underperforming schools."
School vouchers are financial certificates a public school student can apply toward tuition at a private school.
The money for the vouchers is taken from the Basic Education Program funding provided for each student in the public school system. Vouchers do not necessarily cover the entire cost of tuition. A student may receive a $5,000 voucher to apply to a $16,000 private school tuition.
Haslam's bill proposes a limited school voucher program in Tennessee. The program focuses on students who attend a public school in the bottom 5 percent of overall achievement in the state.
The bill is only applicable to students who qualify for free and reduced lunches in the bottom 5 percent of schools. The bill initially caps student involvement at 5,000 with room to grow to a cap of 20,000 by the 2016-17 school year.
The legislation comes after a group was formed to study vouchers at the request of Haslam. The legislation is being considered as a way to give students in failing schools educational options.
On a basic level, proponents of school vouchers claim the program allows for further academic freedom and equality while improving the education of students.
The opposition claims vouchers take needed money away from public schools and funnel them into a privatized institution which is not held to the same standards as public schools.
Proponents of public education have begun to speak out against the legislation. On the state level, the Tennessee School Board Association and the Tennessee Education Association have expressed opposition to public funds going to private schools.
Nationally, the American Association of School Administrators has also expressed opposition to voucher programs.
McDaniel said the Tennessee Organization of School Superintendents, of which he is a part, has also expressed opposition to a voucher program being implemented.
Ringstaff said he agrees parents have the right to choose the best educational institution for their children.
"Parents have a right to put their child wherever they deem is the best place for them. I am not against that. I am against the public school funds going to private schools," Ringstaff said. "I have a problem with that part."
McDaniel said some groups are afraid moving funds to private schools will eventually affect state funding available to all school systems.
"Tennessee is already one of the states really underfunded compared to other states across the nation," McDaniel said. "So to lose those dollars from public schools is more significant in Tennessee than it may be in some more highly funded states."
Ringstaff said private schools are not held to the same state standards as public schools.
"I can understand a voucher system in the state of Tennessee if the private school which accepts the voucher also accepts the same accountability system we have," Ringstaff said. "Hold the schools accountable. If the parents choose to put their students in a private school, it is their choice. Private schools should have to prove themselves like we do."
He pointed out public school teachers are certified, whereas some private school teachers are not.
Ringstaff said private institutions do not have the accountability system of Tennessee Comprehensive Assessment Program, Common Core or End of Course exams.
Ringstaff added he is not opposed to assessments and standards. He said he believes they are needed within education.
"Lots of money go into public school systems. We have to be held accountable to the taxpayers, the city and the state to show we are doing everything in our power to make sure our public school system is perfect," Ringstaff said. "I like accountability. I think there has to be accountability. It gives us measuring sticks on where we can get better."
McDaniel said the school system is always looking to be better than before. Recent history of the systems shows a consistency in having well-performing schools.
The director of schools said the school system will continue to look for ways to improve and help students in subgroups reach higher academic success.
"Public schools educate all children," McDaniel said.
Ringstaff shared a similar sentiment.
"In public school we guarantee a seat of education for every child living within [our district], and rightfully so," Ringstaff said. "We will not turn a student away. In fact, we love having them all — all the diversity. We don't care about socioeconomic standing. We feel that is the same great melting pot students will face in reality."
Both McDaniel and Ringstaff said there is no proof a voucher system contributes to academic success.
"Show me one study out there that shows where vouchers have improved education, just one study where they put vouchers in and the education quality of the community jumped," Ringstaff said. "They don't exist. There is no proof, rhyme or reason vouchers are the answer."
McDaniel said he still had questions about some of the aspects of the pending legislation. The director questioned if the vouchers would actually provide enough for an economically disadvantaged student to attend a good private school.
Ringstaff pointed out the BEP funding in one county differs from the amount offered in another county. He said a voucher offered to a Bradley County student may be $5,000 whereas a Williamson County student could receive a voucher for $10,000 due to the higher BEP rate.
Both McDaniel and Ringstaff said there are issues within the voucher system which still need to be resolved. While the vouchers do not currently affect either Cleveland or Bradley County schools, both men believe it is a matter of time.
"Our fear in education would be once vouchers gain any foothold over the next few years it will continue to expand," Ringstaff said. "That is what usually happens in situations like this. They get their foot in the door and then they keep inching and inching and inching."
McDaniel is positive about Bradley County's standing.
"Our parents and our community seem to be satisfied with the job we do," McDaniel said.


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Pixel Nourish is a one-man band, also known as Kate. She is currently located in the Melbourne Area, Victoria, Australia, but can deliver projects anywhere in Australia and overseas.
A few services she can assist you with are website setup and maintenance, agency contracts/projects, photography and logo design. Get in touch using the form below if you have any questions.
If you would like a direct quote for your work, please request a quote here.
I look forward to hearing from you soon!


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While attending the 2013 North American International Auto Show in Detroit MI, We (Detroit Sports 360) had the pleasure of meeting many gorgeous models. Our own 360 Girls (Natalie Light and Chelsea Nevill) interviewed most of them on media day but there was one model in particular that caught our eye more than most. As I was checking out the Ford Escape I couldn't help but notice Michelle Jackson, naturally we approached her to find out more about the Escape, assuming like most of the models working the show we expected her to say it was…"An Escape". Ford Motor Company did a better job then we assumed and we quickly noticed there was more to Michelle then meets the eye!
Michelle informed us on the three engine types, while educating us on what an ecoboost engine is and the benefits of an ecoboost engine but she seemed to know everything else about the escape as well. Seeming shocked I asked her how she knew so much information and she informed us , "well it's my job! I am a certified product specialist, all of us here in the Ford display with these silver name badges are". I was impressed not only by the Ford display but with their talent as well. They are all not only gorgeous, classy, and stylish, but intelligent as well. Great job Ford!
In classic 360 style, we had to invite Michelle in for a photo shoot, with new owner Sam Tang and a 5 question interview with me…
Question #1: How many years have you been a Ford product specialist
I have been a certified product specialist for Ford for 4 years. This is my first year as a social media personality for Ford.
Question #2: What is your best behind the scenes
My best or favorite behind the scenes Detroit auto show moment was attending the Lexus 944 event at the soundboard inside motor city casino last year after charity preview. Everyone usually attends directly after the charity preview in gowns or elegant dresses. It is alway a fabulous event
My best event this season was during the LA auto show. I attended the Babes in Toyland charity event. It was a VIP exclusive invite only event in which guests were asked to bring a toy for tots. My friends and I all brought Barbies. I had the pleasure of meeting Mark Long from the road rules and the gauntlet and other MTV reality shows in person and he even posed for a picture with me and kissed me on the cheek! That was definitely one of my most memorable moments, as I have always had a huge crush on him!
Question #3: What city do you not look forward to going and doing an autoshow in (assuming Detroit is your favorite)
Lucky for me I have not worked a city I didn't end up loving or finding something to like about it! For example the St. Louis auto show is very small but they have the city museum which was a ton of fun and a great experience to crawl through caves or go down a giant slide and learn more about St Louis. Of course I am from Detroit so working this show is always a pleasure. Staying downtown for the show is also a blessing because I don't find myself in the city of Detroit too often. Staying here forces me to experience more of the night life or to go out and ice skate at campus martius which some may not believe I actually had never done! I have lived in Michigan my entire life, so Detroit is #1 but if I had to pick another city, it would definitely be Miami. I feel like I'm on vacation when I'm there working! We stay at the Eden roc renaissance it's close by fountain Bleu and The biggest best night club LIV.
Question #4: Who is the most famous person you have talked to at the Detroit Autoshow this week?
The most famous person that I talked to at the Detroit Auto show this week was Danny Vola he has over one million hits on you tube for his acoustic cover of waka flocka flame 'no hands' He also opened for walka flaka and had an appearance on the movie 'think like a man' I am a huge fan of his! I suggest everyone listen to his music and follow him on twitter– I do !
Question #5: About a year ago, we (staff) had an idea for a shirt, that caught on around Detroit that says "I'm kinda a big deal" on the back of it. If you had to pick someone at the Autoshow this year for us to send that shirt to, who would it be and why?
Alan Roger Mulally. He is an American engineer and business executive who is the President and Chief Executive Officer of Ford Motor Company. I had the pleasure of shaking his hand last year at the Detroit auto show. I have a friend who works for Buick and even he said he was honored and it was a huge deal when he saw Alan Mulally walking through the Buick display.


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As consumers migrate to smartphones, more retailers are rolling out new strategies that leverage customer engagement via mobile devices. One of these is check-in services, where the market opportunity is substantial.
A recent webinar titled, "Changing the Game in the Retail Store Through Your Own Branded Mobile Experience," revealed that more retailers are investing in location-based marketing. The webinar discussed results from a Forrester Research survey which indicate that 114 million U.S. smartphone users employ check-in services. Forrester predicts that number will grow to 159 million by 2015. The webinar was sponsored by Digby, an Austin, Texas-based mobile platform solutions provider.


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In His Light (23x26 Fillet Framed Suede Matted Print)
by Greg Olsen
Not currently available
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Product Description
Little children seem to have an inborn goodness; a simple faith and natural desire to be taught and to walk in His light. The light of Christ is given to each and it shines in their faces. It is a light that warms their hearts and lets them know that they are loved and always in His sight.
About the Author
The art of Greg Olsen illuminates the soul and spirit of its subjects and uplifts the hearts and minds of its viewers. Olsen's diverse interests are deftly demonstrated in oil paintings that range from the realistic and historical to the whimsical. His luminous, delicate portraits capture not only his subject's likeness, but their spirit as well. Landscapes of scenes from America and the world over reflect the perfect beauty of the minds eye.
Born in 1958, Olsen was raised in a farming community in rural Idaho. His parents, artists themselves, recognized and encouraged his early love of drawing. Later, the devoted tutelage of a high school teacher cemented his affinity and enhanced his technical ability. After studying illustration at Utah State University, he was hired as an in-house illustrator in Salt Lake City, working on anything from murals and dioramas to simple paste-up. Two years later, he followed a friend's advice and began painting full-time. Sales from his first show only just covered the cost of refreshments and invitations, but yielded the first of many commissions that were to come.
Greg's philosophy on art is quite simple. "I appreciate the beauty of art and the way it makes me feel," he says. "I believe that art has the potential to heal our souls, inspire our hearts and awaken our minds. I hope these images will bring this experience to all who view them."
A beautiful reminder...
by Customer - reviewed on November 02, 2007
Our youngest son is mentally disabled and a very special soul. He resembles the child in this painting, so the painting is extremely touching to me - a true reminder of my son's worth. The Jesus in this painting looks so tender and kind - the way He truly is.
by Customer - reviewed on September 30, 2008
My daughter loves having this print in her bedroom to look at each night.
by Alyssa - reviewed on September 19, 2008
I love this picture as a mom of 3 boys! My oldest asked for his own copy of it the last time we were in the bookstore and he tells me all the time that that is him and his friend Jesus in the picture.