text:
…So by the grace of Lord Caitanya, this movement is already introduced in the Western countries, beginning from New York. Our saṅkīrtana movement was first introduced in New York in 1966. At that time I came and began to chant this Hare Kṛṣṇa mantra in Tompkins Square. I was chanting there for three hours with a small mṛdaṅga (drum), and these American boys assembled and gradually joined, and so it is increasing. First of all it was started in a New York storefront, 26 Second Avenue, then we started our branches in San Francisco, Montreal, Boston, Los Angeles, Buffalo, Columbus. We now [1970] have twenty-four branches, including one in London and one in Hamburg. In London they are all American boys and girls, and they are preaching. (Srila Prabhupada from The Science of Sef Realization)
Kṛṣṇa Consciousness—the Yoga for the Modern Age
08 Jul 2013 Leave a comment
in A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada, Science of Self Realization
The Perfection of Self-realization
16 Feb 2013 Leave a comment
in A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada, Radha Madhava, Science of Self Realization, Spiritual Life, Vrindavan Tags: A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada, cowherd boys, devotees, father, gopis, Kṛṣṇa's associate as a friend, Krsna, Krsnaloks, or mother, reciprocation of love, self realization, servant, summit of self-realization, The Perfection of Self Realization
…Kṛṣṇa's only business is satisfying the devotees, and their only business is satisfying Kṛṣṇa. This is the reciprocation of love… The Supreme Personality of Godhead, wanders on the banks of the Yamunā to please the gopīs, the cowherd boys, the birds, the bees, and the cows and calves. These are not ordinary birds, bees, cows, calves, or men; they have all reached the summit of self-realization and thus, after many, many lives, have attained a position whereby they can play with Kṛṣṇa. This Kṛṣṇa consciousness movement can enable everyone to go to Kṛṣṇaloka and become Kṛṣṇa's associate as a friend, servant, father, or mother. Kṛṣṇa is agreeable to take any of these positions in relation to His devotee.
Striving for Perfection
16 Feb 2013 Leave a comment
in Science of Self Realization, Yoga Tags: diamonds, gold, Gold and Diamonds, perfection, self realization
Gold and Diamonds
(Author Unknown)
Gold must pass through fire to achieve its ultimate beauty.
Diamonds only become brilliant overtime and under great pressure.
It is the times that try us the most, that shape us, define us, that bring us closer to the perfection within.
Changing Bodies
25 Jul 2012 Leave a comment
in Bhagavad-gita, Changing Bodies, Science of Self Realization Tags: A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada, bhagavad-gita, blood corpuscles, changing bodies, changing body, dehino smin yatha dehe, from boyhood to youth to old age, krsna consciousness, self realization, soul, soul is eternal, Srila Prabhupada
We Are Not These Bodies, We Are Soul
…within this body there is soul, and the body is changing every moment, but the soul is there. Just as a soul comes from the womb of his mother with a small body, and that small body changes—it becomes the body of a boy, it becomes the body of a youth, then it becomes the body of an old man, then it vanquishes… That we have to admit. We may say that the body is growing, but actually, the fact is, body is changing. It is medically admitted that we are changing our body every second. We are changing our blood corpuscles, and therefore a change of the body is taking place, and that is being manifested in a different shape only. Actually, we are changing every moment our body. So the ultimate change, when this body cannot be worked any more, just like a dress, when it is torn, when it is too old, you have to change it. Similarly, when this body becomes useless, no more, it cannot be pulled on any more, you take another body. Tathā dehāntara-prāptir. As we are, in our practical life, we are changing our body every moment, similarly, the last stage of changing this body is called death. Just as I give up this body, I have to enter into the womb of some kind of mother. These things are explained in the Vedic literatures. (Srila Prabhupada from lecture; San Francisco, April 2, 1968)
The soul is eternal, it is changing body, different bodies, and there are 8,400,000 different forms of body. According to his desire, he is entering another body.
…in the hundreds and thousands of universities all over the world there is no department of knowledge where the science of the soul is taught. Actually, we are all spirit soul. From Bhagavad-gītā we understand that we are transmigrating from one body to another, even in our present lives. All of us had at one time the body of a small baby. Where is that body? That body is gone. Presently I am an old man, but I remember that I was once a small baby. I still remember when I was about six months old; I was lying down on the lap of my elder sister, who was knitting, and I was playing. I can remember that, so it is possible for everyone to remember that he had a small body. After the baby's body I had a boy's body; then I had a youthful body, and now I am in this body. Where are those bodies? They are gone now. This is a different body. It is explained in Bhagavad-gītā that when I give up this body, I will have to accept another body. It is very simple to understand. I have changed so many bodies, not only from childhood to boyhood to youth, but according to medical science we are changing bodies every second, imperceptibly. This Process indicates that the soul is permanent. Although I have changed many bodies, I remember my baby body and my childhood body—I am the same person, soul. Similarly, when ultimately I change this body, I shall have to accept another. This simple formula is stated in Bhagavad-gītā. Everyone can reflect on it…(Srila Prabhupada from; Krsna Consciousness The Topmost Yoga System)
A person or an animal is not the material body; rather, the material body is the covering of the living being. Bhagavad-gītā compares the body to a dress and elaborately explains how one changes dresses one after another. The same Vedic knowledge is confirmed here. The living being, the soul, is constantly changing bodies one after another. Even in the present life, the body changes from childhood to boyhood, from boyhood to youth, and from youth to old age; similarly, when the body is too old to continue, the living being gives up this body and, by the laws of nature, automatically gets another body according to his fruitive activities, desires and ambitions. The laws of nature control this sequence, and therefore as long as the living entity is under the control of the external, material energy, the process of bodily change takes place automatically, according to one's fruitive activities.
Understanding Krsna and Christ
08 Apr 2012 Leave a comment
in Krishna, Lord Jesus Christ, Science of Self Realization Tags: Easter Sunday, guru, Jesus, Jesus Christ, spiritual master, Srila Prabhupada, The Science of Self Realization
Today here in the West most of the World is celebrating Easter Sunday, therefore we are posting some of Srila Prabhupada's instructions on Jesus Christ
…Jesus Christ was such a great personality—the son of God, the representative of God. He had no fault. Still, he was crucified. He wanted to deliver God consciousness, but in return they crucified him—they were so thankless. They could not appreciate his preaching. But we appreciate him and give him all honor as the representative of God.
Of course, the message that Christ preached was just according to his particular time, place, and country, and just suited for a particular group of people. But certainly he is the representative of God. Therefore we adore Lord Jesus Christ and offer our obeisances to him.
Once, in Melbourne, a group of Christian ministers came to visit me. They asked, "What is your idea of Jesus Christ?" I told them, "He is our guru. He is preaching God consciousness, so he is our spiritual master." The ministers very much appreciated that.
Actually, anyone who is preaching God's glories must be accepted as a guru. Jesus Christ is one such great personality. We should not think of him as an ordinary human being. The scriptures say that anyone who considers the spiritual master to be an ordinary man has a hellish mentality. If Jesus Christ were an ordinary man, then he could not have delivered God consciousness…
The Science of Self Realization
By His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada
Chapter 4,
Understanding Krsna and Christ
The Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam states that any bona fide preacher of God consciousness must have the qualities of titikṣā (tolerance) and karuṇā (compassion). In the character of Lord Jesus Christ we find both these qualities. He was so tolerant that even while he was being crucified, he didn't condemn anyone. And he was so compassionate that he prayed to God to forgive the very persons who were trying to kill him. (Of course, they could not actually kill him. But they were thinking that he could be killed, so they were committing a great offense.) As Christ was being crucified he prayed, "Father, forgive them. They know not what they are doing."
Separating the Saints From the Swindlers
06 Mar 2012 Leave a comment
in Guru & Disciple, Science of Self Realization, Srila Prabhupada Conversations Tags: A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada, Christian, economic development, God, guru, Hindu, Krishna consciousness, London Times, materialistic life, Muhammadan, Prabhupada conversations, Saints and Swindlers, Spiritual Life, spiritual master, Srila Prabhupada Speaks out, The Science of Self Realization
The Science of Self Realization
By His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada
From Chapter II, Choosing a Spiritual Master
Separating the Saints From the Swindlers
Srila Prabhupada speaks out in an interview with the London Times: "If you want to be cheated, you will find many cheating gurus. But if you are sincere, you will find a sincere guru… The genuine guru is God's representative, and he speaks about God and nothing else… A genuine guru is not a businessman. He is a representative of God. What ever God says, the guru repeats. He does not speak otherwise."
Reporter: Your Grace, it seems to me that more people then ever are seeking some kind of spiritual life. I wonder if you could tell me why this is so.
Srila Prabhupada: The desire for spiritual life is an absolutely natural hankering. Because we are spirit souls, we can not be happy in the material atmosphere. If you take a fish out of the water, it cannot be happy on land. Similarly, if we are without spiritual consciousness, we can never be happy. Today, so many people are after scientific advancement and economic development, but they are not happy because these are not the actual goals of life. Many young people are realizing this, and they are rejecting materialistic life and are trying to search for spiritual life. Actually this is the proper search. Krishna consciousness is the proper goal of life. Unless you take to Krishna consciousness you cannot be happy. That is a fact. Therefore, we invite everyone to study and understand this great movement.
What is Krsna Consciousness?
07 Jan 2012 Leave a comment
in Interview with Srila Prabhupada, Krishna Consciousness, Science of Self Realization, Srila Prabhupada Conversations Tags: caste system, Christ consciousness, fake gurus, God consciousness, Hare Krsna mantra, Interviews with Srila Prabhupada, krsna consciousness, Sandy Nixon, spiritual master God, Srila Prabhupada
The following interview with freelance reporter Sandy Nixon took place in July 1975, in Śrīla Prabhupāda's quarters at the Kṛṣṇa center in Philadelphia. This discussion serves as a superb introduction to Kṛṣṇa consciousness and covers such basic topics as the Hare Kṛṣṇa mantra, the relationship between the spiritual master and God, the difference between genuine and fake gurus, the role of women in Kṛṣṇa consciousness, the Indian caste system, and the relationship between Christ consciousness and Kṛṣṇa consciousness.
What is Krsna Consciousness?
Ms. Nixon: My first question is very basic. What is Kṛṣṇa consciousness?
Śrīla Prabhupāda: Kṛṣṇa means God. We are all intimately connected with Him because He is our original father. But we have forgotten this connection. When we become interested in knowing, "What is my connection with God? What is the aim of life?" then we are called Kṛṣṇa conscious.
Ms. Nixon: How does Kṛṣṇa consciousness develop in the practitioner?
Śrīla Prabhupāda: Kṛṣṇa consciousness is already there in the core of everyone's heart. But because of our materially conditioned life, we have forgotten it. The process of chanting the Hare Kṛṣṇa mahā-mantra—Hare Kṛṣṇa, Hare Kṛṣṇa, Kṛṣṇa Kṛṣṇa, Hare Hare/ Hare Rāma, Hare Rāma, Rāma Rāma, Hare Hare—revives the Kṛṣṇa consciousness we already have. For example, a few months ago these American and European boys andgirls did not know about Kṛṣṇa, but just yesterday we saw how they were chanting Hare Kṛṣṇa and dancing in ecstasy throughout the whole Ratha-yātrā procession [an annual festival sponsored by the Kṛṣṇa consciousness movement in cities around the world]. Do you think that was artificial? No. Artificially, nobody can chant and dance for hours together. They have actually awakened their Kṛṣṇa consciousness by following a bona fide process. This is explained in the Caitanya-caritāmṛta (Madhya 22. 107)
Understanding Krsna and Christ
25 Dec 2011 1 Comment
in Lord Jesus Christ, Science of Self Realization, Srila Prabhupada Conversations, Vegetarianism Tags: Christ, Christos, Emmanuel Jungclaussen, Father Emmanuel, Jesus, Krishna, Krsna, Krsta, Lord Jesus Christ, Srila Prabhupada, the anointed one, The Science of Self Realization, Understanding Krsna and Christ
The Science of Self Realization
By His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada
Chapter 4 "Understanding Krsna and Christ"
Conversation with Father Emmanuel
In 1974, near ISKCON's center in Frankfurt am Main, West Germany, Srila Prabhupada and several of his disciples took a morning walk with father Emmanuel Jungclaussen, a Benedictine monk from Niederalteich Monastery.
Noticing that Srila Prabhupada was carrying meditation beads similar to the rosary, Father Emmanuel explained that he also chanted a constant prayer: "Lord Jesus Christ, be merciful unto us." The following conversation ensued.
Srila Prabhupada: What is the meaning of the word Christ?
Father Emmanuel: Christ comes from the Greek word Christos, meaning "the anointed one."
Srila Prabhupada: Christos is the Greek version of the word Krsna.
Father Emmanuel: This is very interesting.
Srila Prabhupada: When an Indian person calls on Krsna, he often says, "Krsta." Krsta is a Sanskrit word meaning "attraction." So when we address God as "Christ," "Krsta," or "Krsna," we indicate the same all-attractive Supreme Personality of Godhead. When Jesus said, "Our Father, who art in heaven, sanctified be Thy name," that name of God was "Krsta" or "Krsna." Do you agree?
Father Emmanuel: I think Jesus, as the son of God, has revealed to us the actual name of God: Christ. We can call God "Father," but if we want to address Him by His actual name, we have to say "Christ."
Srila Prabhupada: Yes. "Christ" is another way of saying Krsta, and "Krsta" is another way of pronouncing Krsna, the name of God. Jesus said that one should glorify the name of God, but yesterday I heard one theologian say that God has no name-that we can call Him only "Father." A son may call his father "Father," but the father also has a specific name. Similarly, "God" is the general name of the Supreme Personality of Godhead, whose specific name is Krsna. Therefore whether you call God "Christ," "Krsta," or "Krsna," ultimately you are addressing the same Supreme Personality of Godhead.
Devotional Service Attracts KRSNA
04 Sep 2011 Leave a comment
in Devotional Service, Science of Self Realization, Srimati Radharani Tags: Devotees in Vrndavana, His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada, Krishna, Madana-mohana-mohani, Nectar of Devotion, Radharani, Srimati Radharani
From; The Nectar of Devotion – 1970 Edition
By His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada
Attracting Krsna
Śrīla Rūpa Gosvāmī has stated that devotional service attracts even Kṛṣṇa. Kṛṣṇa attracts everyone, but devotional service attracts Kṛṣṇa. The symbol of devotional service in the highest degree is Rādhārāṇī. Kṛṣṇa is called Madana-mohana, which means that He is so attractive that He can defeat the attraction of thousands of Cupids. But Rādhārāṇī is still more attractive, for She can even attract Kṛṣṇa. Therefore devotees call Her Madana-mohana-mohanī-the attractor of the attractor of Cupid.
To perform devotional service means to follow in the footsteps of Rādhārāṇī, and devotees in Vṛndāvana put themselves under the care of Rādhārāṇī in order to achieve perfection in their devotional service. In other words, devotional service is not an activity of the material world; it is directly under the control of Rādhārāṇī. In Bhagavad-gītā it is confirmed that the mahātmās, or great souls, are under the protection of daivī prakṛti, the internal energy-Rādhārāṇī. So, being directly under the control of the internal potency of Kṛṣṇa, devotional service attracts even Kṛṣṇa Himself.
This fact is corroborated by Kṛṣṇa in the Eleventh Canto of Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam, 12th Chapter, 1st verse, where He says, "My dear Uddhava, you may know it from Me that the attraction I feel for devotional service rendered by My devotees is not to be attained even by the performance of mystic yoga, philosophical speculation, ritualistic sacrifices, the study of Vedānta, the practice of severe austerities or the giving of everything in charity. These are, of course, very nice activities, but they are not as attractive to Me as the transcendental loving service rendered by My devotees."(from Nectar of Devotion: Chapter One, Characteristics of Pure Devotional Service, Attracting Krsna)
The Absolute Necessity of a Spiritual Master
22 Aug 2011 Leave a comment
in Gaudiya Math, Lectures, Science of Self Realization, Srila Prabhupada Tags: Gaudiya Matha, Spiritual Life, Srila Prabhupada, The Science of Self Realization, Vyasa Puja
The Absolute Necessity of a Spiritual Master
From; The Science of Self Realization
By His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada
In February 1936, in Bombay, India, the members of a reputed religious society, the Gauḍīya Maṭha, were astonished by the powerful and eloquent words of a young member who spoke in honor of his spiritual master, Śrīla Bhaktisiddhānta Sarasvatī Gosvāmī. Three decades later, the young speaker would become the world-renowned founder and spiritual master of the Kṛṣṇa consciousness movement. Śrīla Prabhupāda's presentation is a memorable statement on the importance of the guru in spiritual life.
sākṣād-dharitvena samasta-śāstrair
uktas tathā bhāvyata eva sadbhiḥ
kintu prabhor yaḥ priya eva tasya
vande guroḥ śrī-caraṇāravindam
"In the revealed scriptures it is declared that the spiritual master should be worshiped like the Supreme Personality of Godhead, and this injunction is obeyed by pure devotees of the Lord. The spiritual master is the most confidential servant of the Lord. Thus let us offer our respectful obeisances unto the lotus feet of our spiritual master."
Gentlemen, on behalf of the members of the Bombay branch of the Gauḍīya Maṭha, let me welcome you all because you have so kindly joined us tonight in our congregational offerings of homage to the lotus feet of the world teacher, Ācāryadeva, who is the founder of this Gauḍīya Mission and is the president-ācārya of Śrī Śrī Viśva-vaiṣṇava Rāja-sabhā—I mean my eternal divine master, Paramahaṁsa Parivrājakācārya Śrī Śrīmad Bhaktisiddhānta Sarasvatī Gosvāmī Mahārāja.
Krishna Consciousness-The Yoga for the Modern Age
03 Mar 2011 Leave a comment
in Science of Self Realization Tags: age of quarrel, chanting Hare Krishna, holy name, Kali-yuga, kirtan, New Vrindavan, Pariksit Maharaja, Science of Self Realization, Srimad Bhagavatam, Sukadeva Gosvami
Krishna Consciousness-The Yoga for the Modern Age
The Science of Self Realization by His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada
from the chapter "Practicing Yoga in the Age of Quarrel"
harer nāma harer nāma
harer nāmaiva kevalam
kalau nāsty eva nāsty eva
nāsty eva gatir anyathā
[Adi 17.21]
"In this age of Kali there is no other religion than glorifying the Lord by utterance of His holy name, and that is the injunction of all the revealed scriptures. There is no other way, there is no other way, there is no other way." This verse appears in the Bṛhan-nāradīya Purāṇa. Harer nāma harer nāma harer nāmaiva kevalam. Simply chant Hare Kṛṣṇa. There is no other alternative. Kalau nāsty eva nāsty eva nāsty eva gatir anyathā. In this age, Kali, there is no other alternative for self-realization. So we have to accept it.
There is another similar verse in the Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam. In the Twelfth Canto, Third Chapter, Parīkṣit Mahārāja was informed by Śukadeva Gosvāmī of the faults of this age, and now all the symptoms of the age of Kali are apparent. In the conclusive portion, however, Śukadeva Gosvāmī said, kaler doṣa-nidhe rājann asti hy eko mahān guṇaḥ: "My dear king, this age, Kali, is full of faulty things, but there is one good opportunity." What is that? Kīrtanād eva kṛṣṇasya mukta-saṅgaḥ paraṁ vrajet: "Simply by chanting this Hare Kṛṣṇa mantra one can become liberated and go back to Godhead."
"By sound vibration one becomes liberated."
28 Feb 2011 Leave a comment
in Letters by Srila Prabhupada, Science of Self Realization Tags: Arjuna, chanting, Hare Hare, Hare Krishna, J.F. Staal, Krishna Krishna, Krsna, liberation devotional service, sound vibration, Supreme Brahman
Excerpt from The Science of Self-Realization
by A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada
Letter to J.F. Staal Professor of Philosophy and of South Asian Languages
January 30, 1970
"By sound vibration one becomes liberated." By devotional service, by understanding well the Supreme Personality of Godhead, one can go to His abode and never come back again to this material condition. How is it possible? The answer is, simply by chanting His name constantly.
This is accepted by the exemplary disciple, Arjuna, who has perfectly learned the conclusion of spiritual science from the yogeśvara, the master of mystic knowledge, Kṛṣṇa. Recognizing Kṛṣṇa to be the Supreme Brahman, Arjuna addresses Him, sthāne hṛṣīkeśa…: "The world becomes joyful hearing Your name, and thus do all become attached to You." (Bg. 11.36) The process of chanting is herein authorized as the direct means of contacting the Supreme Absolute Truth, the Personality of Godhead. Simply by chanting the holy name Kṛṣṇa, the soul is attracted by the Supreme Person, Kṛṣṇa, to go home, back to Godhead.
In the Nārada-pañcarātra it is stated that all the Vedic rituals, mantras, and understanding are compressed into the eight words Hare Kṛṣṇa, Hare Kṛṣṇa, Kṛṣṇa Kṛṣṇa, Hare Hare. Similarly, in the Kali-santaraṇa Upaniṣad it is stated that these sixteen words, Hare Kṛṣṇa, Hare Kṛṣṇa, Kṛṣṇa Kṛṣṇa, Hare Hare/ Hare Rāma, Hare Rāma, Rāma Rāma, Hare Hare, are especially meant for counteracting the degrading and contaminating influence of this materialistic age of Kali.


text:
An interview with the fantastic Tom Bailey of iconic 80s group Thompson Twins that was first published in the Reading Chronicle and Slough Observer on Friday 11th July 2014.
Iain Burnside – counterpoints to Bob Holly's recent commentary
Following the recent interview with Bob Holly on www.rossowenwilliams.com, I've had some great feedback and a lot of thoughtful replies – none more so than the comments by my good buddy and old wrestling writing partner in crime, Mr. Iain Burnside.
In fact, his counterpoints to the piece Bob and I put together are worth sharing for sure – so, in all their glory, here they are:
*****Regarding the suggestion Roman Reigns should have beaten the Streak this year:
First, the timing doesn't work. If Undertaker thought he could still go in a year or two then it might have been possible but I guess he's not confident of that. In early 2014, Reigns is just not ready for such a spot. He's got all the potential in the world but, to date, his singles matches have shown he has a ways to go before being able to pull off a major WrestleMania bout. If people didn't care for Brock/Taker, Reigns/Taker would likely have been even less popular.
Further to that, the timing was all wrong to break up the Shield. Postponing the break-up for a babyface run will only help solidify the long-term potential of ALL three guys. Rushing it ahead of Mania would have exposed Reigns and increased the likelihood of Ambrose and Rollins getting left behind. Running a Reigns/Taker program without breaking up the Shield would have had largely the same effect.
Second, Reigns winning that match would not have helped his cause. The most important thing in making a top guy these days is in making the audience feel that THEY are the ones who have chosen the guy. When they feel that the company is forcing a certain guy on them, they get feisty. The paths of Daniel Bryan and Batista this year make that abundantly clear.
Right now, the crowd is behind Reigns. That support should grow over the coming year but only if they avoid presenting him in the wrong light. Reigns beating up a crippled, beloved veteran and ending a much-loved undefeated streak, before he can even hold his own end of a main event match or promo, would very much be "in the wrong light".
*****Regarding the suggestion a 'Taker/Reigns match should have been a 30 minute epic:
If this was a few years ago when Taker might have been able to go for 30 minutes, maybe. This year it seems that he went less than five before winding up with a concussion.
A couple of years ago they had to throw in Triple H and Shawn Michaels and a giant cage and Metallica and a lot of lying around time and carry him out on a stretcher to work around how hurt he was. Last year they just needed renowned Walking Dead enthusiast CM Punk.
This year the whole thing went 25 minutes, of which 80% or so was Brock just beating on him.
Whether Taker could have done more had he not been concussed we'll never know but I think the days of him having lengthy, competitive matches were already over. And I'm not sure I agree with your point that he could have had five star matches with anybody but the very best on the roster anymore. Certainly he wouldn't have with Roman Reigns. Or Bray Wyatt, come to think of it. Look around the roster and the only top guy who could have helped nudge Taker towards a five star match is Bryan, who was otherwise occupied.
*****On playing the "relation of the Rock" card for Reigns
They don't need to use the cousin-of-Rock card for Reigns at the moment. Break that out later if need be, maybe when he is on the cusp of completing his ascension and they know the crowd is still with him.
For now, he really just needs to be established as his own man. That might sound goofy given his current stable gimmick but all three of their personalities are starting to come through.
*****Why Brock was the right man to end the streak
The main positive in having Brock end the streak (playing Devil's Advocate here) is that he is not around all the time. They don't need to define a permanent, full-time wrestler by that and serve to continually piss off their audience about it.
But when Brock comes back and all that resentment comes flooding back and he's beating on Bryan/Reigns/Cesaro/whoever and now people really want to see him get his comeuppance… well, they may have convinced people to again give a shit about the few Brock Lesnar matches they have.
Of course, in a perfect world, Lesnar would not have lost twice since his return and we would have been spared the dire three-match series with Hunter, which would have made all this streak-ending business way more effective.
You mentioned that it looked like Brock was beating up an old man. That's how it would have come across no matter who faced Undertaker this year. At least it was a big scary bully doing it rather than that handsome citizen Roman Reigns.
Time will tell but I think Brock is still going to get a load of heat when he returns. And if the guy who beats the guy who beat Taker is to be treated as a so-what, then what does it matter who ended the streak?
*****Emma as the modern female Bushwhacker…
To be fair, the Bushwhackers had a pretty decent shelf life. Santino's been around for about 8 years now. Not every male wrestler can be John Cena, not every female one can be Trish Stratus. Comedy characters are fine.
*****On reasons Dolph Ziggler isn't a top guy
Bouncing around all the time, getting concussions, never giving anything time to breathe, not cutting believable promos, having an inane character *and* posting stupid shit on the internet? Wow!
*****Why the Warriors of the world get 10 bell salutes and Viscera gets a graphic and date
Such is life. If the bassist in Nirvana had been the one who died rather than Kurt Cobain, it would have gotten a brief mention in the news and then the world would roll right on. If some back-bench MP died most people wouldn't know or care but if the Prime Minister choked, there would be endless tributes for weeks. The character actor who played the President's aide in Independence Day died and it barely registered in the media, yet when Heath Ledger died he won an Oscar. It's all a work.
Bob and Ross talk wrestling… April 2014
Bob Holly and Ross Williams – who, together, wrote The Hardcore Truth: The Bob Holly Story, runner up for Wrestling Book of the Year in the 2013 Wrestling Observer awards – recently caught up to discuss the current wrestling scene… some very interesting thoughts from the team that brought you Amazon.com's 9th most reviewed wrestling autobiography!
Ross Williams: We've got to start with this – what did you make of the deal with Undertaker and Brock? Was ending the streak the right move?
Bob Holly: I think it was the right move with the wrong guy. Brock is a part time guy who wrestles what? Three times a year? They could have used that slot to make somebody who is full time. I think people would have accepted that more and wouldn't have been in as much shock if it had been somebody else.
Ross Williams: Yeah, my reaction was the same – why the hell would you put Brock over? It makes no sense because he's part time and it's not going to get him more over than he already is, so it's sacrificing something that's been built for so many years for no real gain when you could have an instant win. But the comment one of my friends made, which I thought was quite interesting, was that if you gave the win to a lower level person to try and make him, you run the risk of the audience completely rejecting that guy. If they put over a guy like Roman Reigns to beat the streak, you could have the crowd piss on everything he ever does, you might put a cap on his career.
Bob Holly: I think it would have been good to have Roman Reigns to go over on Taker. I think they're moulding their next big star there and it would have been perfect to have him work with Taker instead of Brock. That would have made Roman Reigns. Right into main event status. That would have made him and once he beat Taker, his next thing should have been Randy Orton, Daniel Bryan or John Cena. Go after one of those three. But I don't really know how good he is on the microphone.
Ross Williams: He's not bad. Maybe not quite ready yet but if he kept Dean Ambrose with him, he'd be fine. Ambrose is awesome.
Bob Holly: Yeah, he is – he's got great facial expressions, everything – he does a great job character-wise because, watching as a fan, he makes me dislike him and wish that he'd get his ass whipped. That said, it's a compliment because he's doing his job properly. I've never met him but I'm sure he's a real nice guy.
Ross Williams: How would you have done the match? Would it have been a long drawn out affair or would you have had Roman dominate Taker?
Bob Holly: No, it needs to be competitive. Long – at least 30 minutes because if Roman Reigns is going to beat Taker, it's not going to be easy. That's the way it should be – he should be fighting for his life and pulls out a win. People would have accepted that. I don't think people are accepting Brock beating Taker because of the part time thing. Hearing reactions and stuff, I don't think it's as big a deal as it could have been. If Reigns would have beat Taker, I think that would have been a bigger deal – I really do.
Ross Williams: They got a fair amount of press out of the result. Do you think that was because it was Brock Lesnar, former UFC Champion, beating the Undertaker or would they have got the press no matter who it was who ended the streak?
Bob Holly: I think they would have got the press no matter what.
Ross Williams: So in that case, they could have got Roman Reigns' name in front of millions of eyes – and he's the nephew of the Rock! People will go "oh, hey, let's check this guy out!"
Bob Holly: And it makes sense. Look at who the Rock is, and Reigns is following in his footsteps. It's a good story. The thing to do now would be to put Roman Reigns against Brock and have Roman go over on him. Hopefully he'll get a rub off that.
Ross Williams: What about if Taker had lost the streak to someone else? How about Bray Wyatt?
Bob Holly: Oh yeah – if that would have been the direction, if they really wanted to get him over more. Obviously Cena beat Wyatt at Mania but if they're going to elevate him, Bray's going to have to beat Cena. He's going to have to beat Undertaker. Bray Wyatt gets up there to main event status with John Cena and loses, where does that put Wyatt? He goes right back down.
Ross Williams: Agreed – there's only so much you can get over by nearly beating the guy. If I recall, you were "nearly WWE champion", weren't you?! You had Brock in the full nelson… hey, let's just give you the belt, close enough right?!
Bob Holly: Ha! Yeah.
Ross Williams: So, is there anybody else you think would have been worth considering beating the streak?
Bob Holly: You know, I really believe in Dolph Ziggler. I really think he could be World Champion. He's got the charisma, he can talk on the microphone, he knows how to captivate an audience, and he can work! He's one of the best workers in WWE right now in my opinion.
Ross Williams: He's probably been buried too much that nobody would have bought him beating Taker at Mania.
Bob Holly: Yeah, you're probably right. It's all political. That's the whole thing. We could sit here and say this would have been good for this guy and this for that guy and whatever but it all boils down to what's good for business according to Vince and Hunter.
Ross Williams: Would you have finished the streak last year? We heard a lot about how Taker was starting to suffer a great deal, so would you have put Punk over him last year?
Bob Holly: Absolutely.
Ross Williams: If they'd have done that, do you still think Punk would have wandered off like he's done?
Bob Holly: Probably not. My guess is Punk wasn't happy with the direction they were going with him but nobody knows why he left. Everybody says he was unhappy, this and that – nobody knows except Punk so I can't comment on why he left.
Ross Williams: He had been very directionless since losing the title…
Bob Holly: I can't comment on that whole thing. Everybody thinks they know, everybody speculates, but nobody knows. The only three people who know are Punk, Hunter and Vince.
Ross Williams: Going back to the Brock/Undertaker thing, only one person can ever say "I was the one to break the streak" and Brock can already say "I'm the only wrestler to win the UFC title". He doesn't need another bragging right!
Bob Holly: Who wants to brag about beating Taker anyway when you've been the UFC champion? Doing that is real, true bragging rights because that's real fighting. I'd be more proud of that than anything I did in professional wrestling.
Ross Williams: It didn't help that they gave Brock the big win over Taker but a year before, didn't Brock lose to Hunter clean in the middle? So how can Brock lose to Hunter and then come back a year later and break the streak that Hunter failed to break three times?!
Bob Holly: They just don't think back like that. To me, Taker didn't look as if he was in to the match. It was like he was going through the motions.
Ross Williams: I didn't feel like it was Brock Lesnar vs The Undertaker, it was Brock Lesnar vs a tired version of the Undertaker. So I don't know if it felt like Brock "conquered" the streak, more like he happened to be in the ring when 'Taker just couldn't go any more.
Bob Holly: You know, just because he lost at Wrestlemania, everyone is speculating that it was his last match. Nowhere does it say that it was his last match. He never came out and said "this is it". That said, I don't think a match with the part-timer was the way to go. If Taker had been in the ring with someone else, a guy who knows how to lead a match and tell a good story, I think that would have been a better fit for Taker, whether it was his last match or not.
Ross Williams: They had that the last few years with Shawn, Hunter and Punk.
Bob Holly: Exactly. That's why the match wasn't as good because Brock is ok but he's not like Shawn, not like Hunter… he can't lead a match. Bottom line, they should have used a full-time worker because then they would have made a new star that night at WrestleMania.
Ross Williams: Taker apparently got a concussion early in the match so Brock had to lead it.
Bob Holly: If you had somebody like Hunter in there, who can take control of the ship, I think it would have been good.
Ross Williams: Couldn't Heyman have called it from the floor?
Bob Holly: No. Hell no – that just wouldn't work.
Ross Williams: If Taker hadn't got the concussion, presumably the match would have been better because he would have called it?
Bob Holly: Yeah, Taker was going to be the captain of that ship. That's the thing – if you've got two guys in there who know how to be captain, you're probably going to have a good fucking match. But if you've got one guy who is the captain and he gets hurt to where he can't think, the match is doomed. A match that carries that much credibility needs to have people in there who can lead. I think Roman Reigns would be able to lead a match, I really do. Or they could have brought Punk back and had him beat the streak. Anybody but Brock. There's no story line carrying on to Monday night Raw every week about Taker losing the streak. You can't have Brock coming out every week, bragging about beating Taker, because that would be big heat. Roman Reigns – I think he would have come out to the cheer of the crowd if he'd beat Taker. Even if he didn't and got heat, that's no bad thing if you want to get him over as a heel.
Ross Williams: What would you have done? My call would have been, if they'd have Roman beat him, to have Taker come out and shake his hand and walk off.
Bob Holly: Hell yeah, absolutely. Yet the part time guy wins and then boom, he's off TV. There's no storyline to carry over. The only thing they can do is have Paul Heyman come out and talk about how it happened and that doesn't benefit anybody. If Cesaro had beat Taker, at least he's on TV every week so he can carry on that heat. It's a moot point now, Taker's streak is over, let's forget it and move on. It's a waste.
Ross Williams: You look back and see the Iron Sheik beat Bob Backlund after years and years with the belt but they had Hulk Hogan waiting in the wings. They had a plan. They didn't do it to beat Bob Backlund, they did it to get the belt onto Hogan. What's their endgame with Lesnar? Could it not be they're going to build to SummerSlam and have Daniel Bryan make Brock Lesnar tap out?
Bob Holly: That would be good. That would help Daniel Bryan for sure.
Ross Williams: Do you think the heat is transferable? To me, it seems like the law of diminishing returns… you have a guy beat the guy who beat Taker and it's like so what? Brock got beat by Hunter, he got beat by Cena…
Bob Holly: The heat's not transferrable. They'll never capitalise on that defeat. When he comes back in a few months, then they're going to bring up the issue. And nobody is going to give a shit.
Ross Williams: When a guy loses after a long title reign, at least the belt moves on. When you beat the streak, you can't move that on. I guess maybe Taker felt – a lot of people have suggested that it was ultimately his decision and if he wanted to lose to Brock, fair enough, who are we to argue?
Bob Holly: Maybe Taker realised that there's no way in another year he could come back and do it. But there was no gain in how they did it. I think it was the timing of it with Taker realising "this is going to have to be it" and the match was already made with Brock. Maybe it was now or never.
Ross Williams: Couldn't they have changed that in the lead up? He must have known two or three weeks out at least, they could have had the Shield take out Brock Lesnar and have Roman Reigns take the spot at Wrestlemania.
Bob Holly: They could have done that, or they could have had Reigns come out on TV and say I want to put my career on the line right now for the shot at the Taker at Wrestlemania – I want to be the one to beat him. Then he could beat Brock and go on to Mania – that would have been better. There are so many ways and we could talk about it all day long but they're going to do what they do. They had another first in wrestling history this week – Daniel Bryan got married, ok? He became world champion at Wrestlemania, he gets married after that. He's on his honeymoon. He wasn't on Raw last night, nor is he going to be on Smackdown and the guy is the world champion? This is the first time ever in the history of the wrestling business that a guy became world champion and got to go off on a honeymoon and miss TV. How does that fuckin' happen?! You're carrying the company but you get to be off because you're on honeymoon? Since when did that change?!
Ross Williams: I'll tell you why – because of Total Divas. Because it's part of the show on Total Divas so even though it's a honeymoon, it's still work.
Bob Holly: But still! Do Raw and Smackdown and then take a private jet and fly on your honeymoon until next Monday! If you're carrying the company, you're the main draw on that show. I was just shocked when I read that he wasn't on there. This guy's the fucking world champion and he gets to take off? I'm sure they're filming it for the show but he still could have done Raw and Smackdown, then fly out and come back for next week's Raw. Six days is plenty of time to have a honeymoon! Plenty of time to film Total Divas and all that.
Ross Williams: We'll see the next time someone gets married, I guess. I think when Cody got married, they didn't make a fuss about him going on honeymoon, so they seem to be softer on these things these days. There's none of this punishing Ricky Steamboat because he wants to be there for the birth of his son sort of thing anymore.
Bob Holly: You miss the birth of your child, you miss your kids graduation, if you're carrying the company, you have to be at TV. That's the way it was but I don't know what the deal is now. Maybe they've softened up.
Ross Williams: Maybe they just think as long as they've got Cena, Daniel Bryan is optional?
Bob Holly: Yeah, they might think that but then, if they did, why did they give Bryan the belt?
Ross Williams: They couldn't not give him the belt.
Bob Holly: Oh, I know that – they had to. Well, it's not that they had to…
Ross Williams: Yeah – they had to!
Bob Holly: Yeah, ok – they had to. I think it was probably killing Hunter to have to do that though! I knew they'd have a good match because Hunter's really good and I stand by that. Just because I don't care for Hunter and his vindictive ways, it doesn't mean I'm going to say he's a horrible wrestler or entertainer because he is really good – despite what Bret Hart says about his skills.
Ross Williams: What do you think about Eric Young winning the TNA Title?
Bob Holly: That's about like me getting the World title! You know what, it's like ok, WWE spent almost a full year building Daniel Bryan with this storyline. TNA is like hey, I've got this great idea, Daniel Bryan just won the world belt at Wrestlemania, how about we spend 2 hours and put the title on fucking whatshisname. That's why TNA is in the situation they're in. They watched WWE and think that because WWE got Daniel Bryan over like they did, hell, Eric Young's going to get over that quick if we put the title on him. Eric Young is a comedy guy. And that's all he is. He's never been serious and that drives me nuts because comedy stuff gets old just like Santino Marella and that girl Emma who comes out with him and does that stupid stuff with her hands. Does she not realise that she is killing her career? Who told her to do that? Did she come up with that?
Ross Williams: It worked in NXT… they don't seem to have figured out that things that work in NXT might not work in front of 17,000 people…
Bob Holly: When I saw her do that the other night, I was like number one, Santino's going to kill her career by them putting her out there with him because he's a comedy act, and number two, her doing that fucking stupid bullshit with her arms is going to put her career six feet under. She won't have a career in WWE if she keeps doing that. It's like when I had the Sparky Plugg gimmick, that wasn't much better but I realized real quick that character wasn't going to get me anywhere fast. No pun intended!
Ross Williams: You know who Emma reminds me of?
Bob Holly: Who?
Ross Williams: The Bushwhackers.
Bob Holly: Yes! Yes! But the Bushwhackers were back in the 80's and that's when the comedy gimmicks worked! Comedy gimmicks don't work as well as they used to… my opinion. I just… when I see her I just want to tell her STOP… stop doing that! I can't watch it, I have to look away, I get embarrassed watching her. Can somebody send her a message, like, maybe I should send her a message on twitter – stop doing that!
Ross Williams: Well, they're bringing up a bunch of other people right now like Rusev, Bo Dallas, Adam Rose and putting the spotlight on them, so where does that leave them with guys like Dolph and Kofi Kingston, guys who are excellent wrestlers but never really got used to their full capacity?
Bob Holly: Kind of like they did with me? They're in the same boat as I was.
Ross Williams: I get angry for Kofi the same way I got angry for you!
Bob Holly: Kofi is always going to be doing what he's doing now. That's never going to change now. He's too far gone in terms of that role that it'll never change. Dolph – he's borderline. He's teetering on that – he's started getting wins again here and there but he's teetering on that fine line of that role that I was in and that Kofi's in. That's the nature of the business though – they bring people in and I can't blame them for doing it, they need to know if people are going to be star material or not. They constantly have to make new stars, so I don't blame them for doing it but on the other hand, you have to sacrifice talent that has been there for a while. It's a double edged sword.
Ross Williams: You're talking about top stars – their top stars now… much like 2004, ten years ago, Randy Orton, John Cena, Dave Batista, Rey Mysterio, the Big Show, Mark Henry, Kane… all of these guys are still there and Cena's not going away any time soon, Randy Orton's not going away any time soon – how are they going to get anybody over to that top level? Punk came in, got to the top and then decided he couldn't be bothered and left and part of it could well have been that he looked around and thought "is this still 2005?"
Bob Holly: It's just always been like that though!
Ross Williams: Go back and look at the 80s. Hogan left! Savage left! Warrior left! They weren't around for 10 years – with WCW, you could switch it up and move people in and out.
Bob Holly: The thing is the reason those guys, Cena, Orton, Batista are still there is because they haven't found anybody else to replace them. Punk could have but they're looking for something specific. It all comes down to politics. Look at Dolph. There's no reason this guy should be losing like he loses.
Ross Williams: I don't get it either, Dolph is everything they could want in a top guy.
Bob Holly: Exactly, Dolph has the same amount of charisma as Shawn Michaels. Look at when Dolph comes out – as soon as he comes out, instant energy! He grabs everybody, right out of the gate. He grabs your attention. Nobody will ever get it – the only people who will get it are Vince and Hunter but nobody will ever know why you have a guy who looks good and is a great worker but not up there and you've got a subpar worker up there on top. I'll never understand it.
Ross Williams: What did you make of the Warrior tribute?
Bob Holly: It's great to see WWE do a tribute to Warrior but I question why they only do that for certain people? Only people who've made that company tons of money. It's like, in other words, his life is more valuable than a mid carder's life.
Ross Williams: There was a good example of this recently; Warrior worked for them for what? 5 years total?
Bob Holly: Yeah, not long.
Ross Williams: How long did Viscera work there?
Bob Holly: Quite a while.
Ross Williams: He got there in '93, he worked there on and off until about 2008?
Bob Holly: Yeah, he was there off and on when I was there.
Ross Williams: Maybe 10 years?
Bob Holly: Probably, not quite ten but more than Warrior, I know that.
Ross Williams: What did they do for Viscera when he died?
Bob Holly: They didn't do anything for him! I was looking that morning after to see what they did for him and nothing on Raw. They acknowledged it on Smackdown with a picture of him and the date he was born and the date he died and I think that was it. They didn't do the everybody on stage, the ten bell thing – they didn't do any of that.
Ross Williams: Many of those people on stage this Monday for Warrior – many of them probably worked with Viscera or at least met him whereas maybe what? 10% of those people on that stage ever knew Warrior?
Bob Holly: Yeah, if that. What pisses me off is that these guys that don't get acknowledged when they pass, they sacrifice for that company, they sacrifice their body, they sacrifice their family, they sacrifice so much to work with WWE and for WWE to not acknowledge people but acknowledge Warrior, that's a travesty to me. It's wrong. They're saying Warrior is more important than Viscera. Every human life is just as important as the other. What makes Warrior's life more valuable than Viscera?
Ross Williams: You feel it should be a rule for everybody?
Bob Holly: Yes, for whoever worked for WWE because you do make a huge sacrifice. It should be acknowledged.
Ross Williams: You don't have a problem with what they did for Warrior, they should just do it for everybody the same?
Bob Holly: Exactly. And they should do that. What they did for Warrior, they should do that for everybody that worked for the company and made sacrifices.
Ross Williams: Did you ever meet Warrior?
Bob Holly: Yeah, I did. He was a very pleasant man – VERY charismatic and intense! That man could sell out an arena! I feel real bad for his family, his wife and children – it's a great shame he died so young.
Ross as… JESUS!
Originally shot in mid 2012, this little gem has finally been released online, advertising the rather excellent fishing app, MyCatch. Check it out…
Award season
Well, 2013 was quite the year – the release of my first book, my first feature film role and my first 'proper' acting award. No, no, don't get too excited, I've not obtained an Oscar or bagged a BAFTA, or even grabbed a Golden Globe (that sounds dodgy) – but at this early stage in my acting journey, a positive recognition from anywhere for anything is most gratefully received. So THANK YOU to the fine folks at Zed Fest over in the States who gave me "Outstanding Performance" for my turn in Jon Cunningham's "BLT" as a rather defeated Scottish tramp. I was especially pleased to also see my co-star, the fabulous Stephen Molloy, also get a nod for his less obviously defeated businessman. Overall, a great short film that Jon worked hard to put together and has done a great job with. If you haven't watched it, check it out…
Meanwhile, on the literary front, I was similarly thrilled to hear that The Hardcore Truth, the autobiography of Bob Holly for which I was the writer, was runner up in the Best Wrestling Book category in the 2013 Wrestling Observer Awards. Given that the people who vote in these awards are – shall we say – the more intense, committed collective of wrestling fans, I was delighted to see that Bob's book had done so well. The winning book, a look at the history of the Montreal wrestling territory, was the sort of book that would appeal hugely to the voting demographic of the Observer so I wasn't shocked to see that particular book win – I've heard good things about it although not read it. I'm sure it was a very worthy winner… hell, it had better be if it beat Bob and my book
In all seriousness, I'm very flattered that 203 people went out of their way – with no nominations or guidelines – to say that the book that Bob and I put together was the best wrestling book of the year. When you consider that's about 25% of the votes overall, it's a humbling stat. I think I speak for Bob on this one in that we're both very grateful to anybody who took the time to buy and read the book, give us feedback on Amazon (where we're now the 9th most reviewed wrestling autobiog on the whole site, AND with a 4.7 star average review – bloody marvellous!) and we're thrilled that so many people enjoyed the book. Seeing so many people do a complete 180 turn on how they feel about Bob is hugely gratifying. Here is a man who was cast in a role for over a decade as, basically, a prick – and he was so good at his job that people believed that was the real man. But the real man is nothing like that character and now the world has a chance to get to know him. If you've not read the book yet, I'd encourage you to pick up a copy. Not because I get royalties (although I like that part) and not because it appeases my ego (I like that part too) but because it's a bloody good book, a quick, easy read, a real page turner I've been told, and I've even had non-wrestling fans (most notably my missus Vicky and the bassist in my band D-State, a fine fella called Jumper) read it and marvel at it's awesome goodnessocity. That's a word, I swear.
If that's sold you, here's where you can buy it – http://www.amazon.com/The-Hardcore-Truth-Holly-Story/dp/1770411097 in America and http://www.amazon.co.uk/Hardcore-Truth-The-Bob-Holly/dp/1770411097 in the UK. Buy it, read it, enjoy it, bring it with you when you see me and I'll write you a dirty limerick in the acknowledgements section….

subset: commoncrawl


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Incredibulls Auditions
- Must be at least 18 years of age (as of audition date, no exceptions). Please bring ID.
- Must be a resident of the Chicagoland area with a reliable means of transportation.
- Must be extremely energetic, athletic, in excellent physical shape and outgoing.
- All candidates will be asked to demonstrate athletic skills (i.e. tumbling, stunting, break dancing, pop locking, etc.)
- Candidates must be willing to devote a large percentage of time including attendance at practices, all home games, community events and appearances
- Must attend training camp on Sunday, September 14 (9am – 2pm)
- Must attend Bulls home games all season (call time is 3 hours prior to start of each game) and evening rehearsals during the work week
Things to know:
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- The IncrediBulls do cheer and stunt routines/features — they are not the same as the Chicago Luvabulls.
- LOOK GAME READY! You are being chosen to represent the Chicago Bulls.
- (Ladies) Fitted shorts, sports bra/fitted top, cheer shoes, hair off your face, natural makeup
- (Gentlemen) Shorts, t-shirt (tucked in), athletic shoes, neat appearance
- Bring kneepads, water, and snacks for the day.
- Expect auditions to go from 9am – 5pm
- Auditions are closed to the public.
- In addition to Bulls games, the IncrediBulls appear at corporate and charity events around Chicagoland, and at select functions in support of McDonald's, official sponsor of the IncrediBulls.


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Paperwork Requirements
As a cooperating teacher, you will be asked to sign a form allowing a student teacher to be placed in your classroom.
As a cooperating teacher you will be asked to complete a USAO evaluation form of your student teacher's performance in your classroom
Your student teacher may request that you complete an evaluation or recommendation form for their placement folder. Your student teacher may also request that you sign or initial lesson plans or specific assignments for either or both of the classes they are taking.
Your student teacher will be visited at least twice during their stay at your school. Student teachers are usually informed as to the time of the visit but may be visited randomly without notice. You, as well as the school principal, may be contacted during the visit. You are not being evaluated by the university supervisor. The university supervisor acts as a link between the public school and the university. The university supervisor is placed with the student teacher to provide support, guidance, and direction. The university supervisor can be the first person a cooperating teacher contacts if a problem arises.
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- Destinations:
- Argentina,
- Buenos Aires,
- Buenos Aires Province,
- Central + South America
Fishing Day from 6 Am till 6 pm. The Package includes: Fishing equipment and tackle Land Transportation with Bilingual Guide Boat and gasoline with local and bilingual fishing guide Lunch (sandwiches) with non alcoholic beverages and snacks Live Bait and Lures Argentinas Anglers (AA) is a full service fishing travel company devoted to arrange quality outdoor experiences for individuals, groups and corporate teams. Contact Us: email@example.com
See + Do
Given the Río de la Plata's importance to Argentina's maritime trade, it's odd that Buenos Aires turns its back on the widest estuary in the world. (True, the Plata's shallow waters are chocolate brown, thanks to sediment scoured by its tributaries, and tricky tides add to the challenge of navigating its waters.) Aquatic activities concentrated in the Zona Norte are nonetheless increasingly popular, where enthusiasts strike out on sailboards, wakeboards, and surf skis. Motorboats and yachts can also be rented in the nearby town of Tigre for a cruise in the Paraná Delta, where 4,000 square miles of tiny bamboo-strewn islands are divided by hundreds of channels, canals, and tributaries. A handful of sailboat operators also rent fully crewed yachts from Puerto Madero in the city center.
Moored in Puerto Madero, Smile on Sea's 32-foot yachts are manned by experienced skippers and can be chartered for half-day sails on the Río de la Plata, providing a waterborne vista of the Buenos Aires skyline. On balmy days, consider leaving at dusk for an on-deck sundowner and night-time return to harbor. Longer outings include a full-day cruise to the Paraná Delta or an overnight crossing to Colonia del Sacramento, a former Portuguese colonial settlement on Uruguay's shoreline.


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Literature Annotations
Hall, Donald |
On-Line Audio | |
Genre | Essay (4 pp.) |
Keywords | Aging, Human Worth, Individuality, Loneliness, Mother-Son Relationship |
Summary | The writer Donald Hall gives us a lyrical armchair view through the windows of his house not only of the New Hampshire landscape, but also of his and his anscestors lives lived in that landscape. His honest and moving account from his 83rd year is captured in the following: "I feel the circles grow smaller, and old age is a ceremony of losses, which is on the whole preferable to dying at forty-seven or fifty-two [the ages his wife Jane Kenyon died and his father died]. When I lament and darken over my diminishments, I accomplish nothing. It's better to sit at the window all day, pleased to watch the birds, barns, and flowers. It is a pleasure to write about what I do" (p.41). |
Commentary | Without is Hall's collection of poems that chronicles and poetically renders Hall's living with the loss of his wife Jane Kenyon. |
Source | The New Yorker |
Alternate Edition | January 23, 2012 |
Annotated by | Kohn, Martin |
Date of Entry | 02/27/12 |
Last Revised | 03/02/12 |


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High school come and see weekend The Sisters of St. Benedict in Ferdinand, Ind. are holding a come and see event for high school girls, freshmen to seniors Feb. 15-17. This is a chance to learn what it is like to be a nun in today's world. Pray, eat and recreate with the sisters. For more information, call Sister Michelle Sinkhorn at 1 (800) 738-9999, or visit our web page www.thedome.org, where you can also register online, or email firstname.lastname@example.com. Parent permission is required.
Come & See Weekend Sisters of St. Benedict, Ferdinand, Ind. will host a Come & See Weekend Jan. 4-6, 2013. For single, Catholic women between the ages of 18 to 40. Get to know our Benedictine sisters, share in our community life and prayer, and meet other women who are considering religious life - no pressure, no commitment. For more information or to register online, visit www.thedome.org, or call Sister Michelle Sinkhorn at 1 (800) 734-9999, or email firstname.lastname@example.com.


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With the start of cooler, fall weather, local drivers are spotting more deer in and near roadways.
Sergeant Garic Warner, with the Marietta Post of Ohio State Highway Patrol, said speed is a key factor in avoiding a deer. The faster youre going, the longer its going to take you to get stopped. So anytime youre driving you want to observe posted speed limits and drive for the conditions the speed limit may be 55 miles per hour but there may be fog, its nighttime, or its raining and 55 may not be safe.
Warner recommends drivers to use their brights to more easily spot deer at night. Anytime you increase your visibility, your chances of avoiding something on the roadway also increases, says Warner.
Though he warns that brights can work against you in foggy conditions and limit your visibility. In those conditions, either use fog lights if your car is equipped with them, or just use your regular headlights.
If you do see a deer in the road and dont have enough time to stop, Warner advises against swerving.
You never want to leave your lane when you dont know its safe to do say, explains Warner. Because then you run the risk of driving off the roadway or driving into another vehicle. Weve had several crashes over the years, where people swerve to miss a dear, and end up in worse shape because they went off the road, or overturned, or hit an oncoming car.
Warner recognizes that nobody wants to hit a deer, but in his experience, very few deer collisions result in serious damage or injury.
The deer are relatively low to the ground and rarely come up into the windshield, as long as youre not speeding, notes Warner, I couldnt even tell you the last time somebody was injured in a deer crash, its so rare.
If you do hit a deer on the road, only call 911 if injury occurs. Otherwise, call city police at 373.4141 or the Highway Patrol at 374.6616. If you cant remember that number, Warner says drivers may also call the tip line for help, which is #677.
Its also a good idea to program non-urgent numbers for police, sheriff, and patrol into your cell phone to help keep the 911 lines open for emergencies.


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Home › Keyword/Tag › Participation
Wednesday, October 28, 2009 - 10:30Facilitator's impressions and major learnings emerging through the discussions Overview We started the session by hearing some of the ideas, insights, revelations and contentions aired at the initial OA dialogue on Working with Men, in July. I had lifted about 20 direct quotes from that...
Tuesday, October 27, 2009 - 13:30The Draft Community Health Worker Policy is now a public document open for comment by civil society. Very little, if any, civil society led work is being done to make meaningful input into this policy development process. Where is the policy now? How can we engage with it? What are the issues and...
Monday, October 26, 2009 - 10:30Organising at a community level is often diffi cult without collaborative relationships with major social actors in that particular community. Community service forums provide a useful way of building collaboration and ensuring broad representation but they are diffi cult to set up and manage. How...
Blog posts
The Day that Was – Day 1 Wow, what a day! Monday was about so much… incredible conversations, packed meetings, lots of smiles, a few frowns and even maybe a few tears. The opening was great – we are reminded to think, to question, to know that what happens at...Tuesday, October 27, 2009 - 09:43
What brings a whole bunch of people, from civil society, to join together on a wet Sunday afternoon, for four days in Pietermaritzburg? Intersections 09. Intersect what? So what do I expect on this the Oxfam Australia Learning Event for 2009. I am looking forward to discussions on subjects in the...Sunday, October 25, 2009 - 16:15
Denis Hunt of the AIDS Consortium facilited a session on networking: The session was for shairing best practices and to brainstorm deas for improving networking. The session was also to maximize and strengthen links as civil society for maximum impact as well to sustain the work of civil...Tuesday, October 27, 2009 - 10:31
Community service forums: a voice for the community? This session was chaired by Nkwame Cedile from Khayelitsha in Cape Town. This session was very interactive and he opened the floor to participants to share their experiences around community development forum. We had a fruitful discussion...Monday, October 26, 2009 - 17:15
An interesting discussion we had around participation as a key ingriedient for good development, was that while we all see the significance of it to ensure sustainability of the intervention, we all find it difficult. It is time and resource intensive and to add to the load, we are often bound by...Monday, October 26, 2009 - 16:53
I attended a community service forum session at the Intersections Partner Conference on Monday. Nkwame Cedile facilitated the session. The main question was whether the community service forums are truly reflecting and representing what they were initially supposed to be. Nkwame...Tuesday, October 27, 2009 - 11:31
Rapparteur: Dumisani Malwane Organisation: Maputaland Development and Information Centre (MDIC) First time rapparteuring for a conference of this magnitude whereby one interacts with people from different disciplines, backgrounds, organisations and countries is always scarring, intimidative...Tuesday, October 27, 2009 - 17:46


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Product Description
Available while supplies last.
Daddy's Love Picture Frame
This beautiful, sentiment frame speaks volumes. An 8" x 10" contemporary black frame with black mat and art overlay holds a 4" x 6" horizontal photo of baby and daddy. A perfect accent for Daddy's desk or office
- For wall or tabletop display
- Reads:
"My Daddy's Hands...the power of the love, held in my Daddy's Hands..."
Materials: | MDF | |
Weight: | 1 Pound | |
Listing: | Made in USA | |
Picture Frame Shape | Rectangle | |
Personalization Allows you to find products where you can personalize a name, birthday, or message on it. | Personalization | Non-Customizable |
Picture Frame Feature | Hanging Frame, Table Top Frame | |
Picture Frame Type | Single Photo Frame |
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Heart disease, postmenopause, and hormone replacement therapy (HRT)
Heart disease is the number one killer of women.1 Postmenopausal women have a higher risk of developing heart disease than younger women. The use of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) does not prevent heart disease. In fact, HRT increases heart-related risks.
- HRT slightly increases stroke risk in all healthy postmenopausal women, regardless of risk factors.2, 3 The increase in strokes first becomes apparent during the second year of HRT use.4
- In women who are 10 or more years past menopause, using HRT slightly raises the risk of heart disease. This means that for a small number of these women, taking HRT causes heart disease. Early signs of heart disease can first become apparent during the first year of hormone use.5, 6, 7
- The Heart and Estrogen/Progestin Replacement Study (HERS) has shown an increased number of heart attacks in women with preexisting heart disease who were started on HRT.8
If you are considering taking HRT, determine whether HRT heart risks outweigh the possible benefits for you. Review your personal and family history of high blood pressure, heart attack, stroke, smoking, diabetes, and atherosclerosis with your health professional.
If you have risk factors for heart disease, you already have heart disease, or you have had a stroke, take steps to reduce your risk factors by quitting smoking if you're a smoker, exercising regularly, controlling your blood pressure, and keeping your cholesterol low with a healthy diet and a cholesterol-lowering (statin) medication, if needed.
Talk to your doctor to find out whether a daily low-dose aspirin is right for you.
For more information about heart disease, risk factors, prevention, and treatment, see the topic Coronary Artery Disease.
- American Heart Association (2007). Women, Heart Disease, and Stroke Survey Highlights. Available online: http://www.americanheart.org/presenter.jhtml?identifier=10382.
- Rossouw JE, et al. (2002). Risks and benefits of estrogen plus progestin in healthy postmenopausal women. Principal results from the Women's Health Initiative randomized controlled trial. JAMA, 288(3): 321–333.
- Manson JE, et al. (2003). Estrogen plus progestin and the risk of coronary heart disease. New England Journal of Medicine, 349(6): 523–534.
- Wassertheir-Smoller S (2003). Effect of estrogen plus progestin on stroke in postmenopausal women. The Women's Health Initiative: A randomized trial. JAMA, 289(20): 2673–2684.
- Grodstein F, et al. (2006). Hormone therapy and coronary heart disease: The role of time since menopause and age at hormone initiation. Journal of Women's Health, 15(1): 35–44.
- Prentice RL, et al. (2006). Combined analysis of Women's Health Initiative observational and clinical trial data on postmenopausal hormone treatment and cardiovascular disease. American Journal of Epidemiology, 163(7): 589–599.
- Rossouw JE, et al. (2007). Postmenopausal hormone therapy and risk of cardiovascular disease by age and years since menopause. JAMA, 297(13): 1465–1477.
- Hulley S, et al. (1998). Randomized trial of estrogen plus progestin for secondary prevention of coronary heart disease in postmenopausal women. Heart and Estrogen/progestin Replacement Study (HERS) Research Group. JAMA, 280(7): 605–613.
Last Updated: May 16, 2008
Author: Robin Parks, MS
Medical Review: Anne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine & Kirtly Jones, MD - Obstetrics and Gynecology


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Residence Hall or apartment vandalism is an unfortunate reality in community living. Consequently, damages that occur as a result of vandalism cannot be absorbed in the Facilities Management operating budget, which is designed to manage routine wear and tear, repairs and replacement costs in residence halls. As a result of these damages, financial sanctions such as Damage-Billing or Excessive Housekeeping Fines are charged to resident students. Whenever the responsible resident(s) can be identified, disciplinary sanctions are applied to the guilty parties.
The Damage-Billing Program is based on the concept that charges related to vandalism are assessed to residents or resident groups living in close proximity to the location of the actual damages. The purpose of the Damage-Billing Program is to reduce residence hall fees rather than increase room rates by adding built-in charges for room or public area damages. However, residents may challenge through the appeals process to have any Damage Billing Charges or Excessive Housekeeping Fines removed.
Damage-Billing Charges
Maintenance and Custodial Managers usually initiate the individual and public area Damage-Billing Charges and Excessive Housekeeping Fines. These Managers investigate charges to ensure fairness in the billing process. The following are examples of incidents that often result in Damage-Billing:
• Broken exit signs • Broken windows • Inverted or incorrectly assembled beds • Re-assembly of room or lounge furniture • Recharging or replacing fire extinguishers • Removal of any University furniture from its designated location (considered theft) • Replacement of towel rods or brackets • Holes in walls • Graffiti
Individual Damage-Billing Charges
Students are responsible for the cleaning of their individual rooms or apartments. Upon occupying or vacating, students are required to check the condition of the room and furnishings with a Residence Life staff member on Check-in/Check-Out (CICO) forms. The University holds each student accountable for loss or damage to property beyond normal wear and tear. Room property includes dressers, desks, chairs, wall surfaces, interior and exterior door surfaces, windows, and all other items listed on the CICO form.
1. Where damage occurs in a room shared by residents, the occupants of the room are equally responsible for a proportion of the damage charge unless the responsible party voluntarily assumes the total charge. 2. If damages related to vandalism occur to the exterior surface of a room door or window, the residents must contact the Maintenance Manager within 24 hours and provide documentation indicating they should not be held responsible for any damage billing that may result (i.e., Public Safety/Police reports). 3. When students fail to use or appropriately sign the CICO form when arriving or departing from the University residence hall, the result will be forfeiture of the right to appeal a Damage-Billing charge. 4. All individual Damage-Billing charges are applied at a $10.00 minimum.
Public Area Damage-Billing
Public areas are defined as lobbies, hallways, lounges and recreation rooms, bathrooms, kitchens, elevators, etc. Residents may be liable for damages that occur to University property within a specific building. When public areas are vandalized, a group of students, a floor or a building where students live in close proximity to the damage will be billed for the damages.
1. University personnel inspect public areas on a regular basis. Any report of damages is forwarded to the Maintenance or Custodial Manager for review of the charges. Charges to public areas of residential facilities are assessed during and at the close of each semester. 2. When public area damages occur, resident students are encouraged to identify the specific individual or group who caused the damage, in order to avoid damage-billing charges. Those individuals thought to be responsible should be reported immediately to Residence Life and/or Public Safety. Individual residents proven to be responsible for specific incidents should be reported to the Maintenance or Custodial Manager. 3. Similar to individual Damage-Billing, public area Damage-Billing only applies when the standard level of a $10.00 minimum amount is reached.
Excessive Housekeeping Fines
Excessive Housekeeping is defined as any housekeeping situation that is not considered part of the custodial staff's normal daily routine. This includes items such as fire extinguisher powder, clumps of mud, foodstuffs, bodily fluids in public areas, rooms, or apartments, and trash that has not been disposed of in the designated receptacles (i.e., dumpsters, toters or trash chutes). Excessive Housekeeping Fines are imposed in an effort to correct the behavior of a specific room/floor/building. These fines do not always reflect the time and material necessary to complete cleaning tasks, but act as a deterrent against future Excessive Housekeeping problems. Excessive Housekeeping occurrences and fines are determined by Custodial Managers. These fines are imposed on rooms/floors/buildings on an escalating basis. Following are examples of incidents that often result in Excessive Housekeeping Fines:
• Adhesive backed decorations/colored putty • Body fluids: (blood, urine, mucous, feces, vomit) • Broken glass • Carpet and upholstery damage • Cement blocks not removed from building • Cigarettes and debris • Confetti/glitter • Contact paper • Deliberate floods • Fire extinguisher debris • Food/trash left in sinks/water fountains • Graffiti • Liquid spills • Mud • Removal of personal carpet/furniture left in room/building • Room trash in public areas • Sprinkler head discharges due to causes other than fire • Stacking lounge furniture • Tape/tape residue
1. The first occurrence of a specific type of Excessive Housekeeping, per room, floor or building is charged at $25.00; the second occurrence at $50.00; and the third occurrence at $75.00. If the actual cost of the clean up exceeds the published charge, then actual costs will be assessed. 2. University personnel report excessive housekeeping incidents to the Custodial Manager who reviews and reports appropriate Excessive Housekeeping Fines. 3. The Custodial Manager assesses the necessary fines based on number of like occurrences for the specific floor and/or building. The verified data is then entered into the University Facilities Work Order System and given a fine amount based on the documented number of like occurrences for that specific room, floor and/or building. 4. If the responsible person(s) voluntarily comes forth and pays the fine, the floor or building will not be fined. 5. Charges throughout the year are assessed to public areas of residential facilities. In addition, public area furniture is inventoried at the end of each semester and damage billing for missing or damaged public area furniture is billed at the end of each semester. 6. Student accounts are charged at the end of the semester if the total semester minimum fine is $10.00 per resident.
Appeals Process
First Appeal
After students receive assessments, they have the right to appeal the Damage-Billing charges and excessive housekeeping fines. Appeals should be submitted in a written letter or e-mail to the Custodial Manager or Manager Housing Maintenance initiating the charges. If the appeal is granted, the charge will be removed from the student's account. In most cases, the Managers will take into account extenuating circumstances in making their determination. The majority of appeals are resolved at the Custodial and Maintenance Managers' level. Reasons for rescinding charges are varied and may include:
1. Guilty person(s) identified 2. Stolen items returned 3. Damage-Billing or Excessive Housekeeping fine information is incorrect or incomplete 4. Damaged item is due for replacement 5. Billing mistake
Second Appeal
If a student is not satisfied with the outcome of the appeal at the Managers' level, the resident has a right to appeal to the Assistant Director of Operations and Maintenance or Custodial Services. The resident must forward a written letter outlining the basis for the second appeal, while the appropriate Manager will supply supporting documentation. The Assistant Director(s) will answer the appeal within 5 working days.
Third and Final Appeal
If the resident is not satisfied with the Assistant Director's response, the resident has the right to appeal to the Director. The resident must forward a written letter outlining the basis for the third appeal, while the appropriate Assistant Director(s) will supply supporting documentation. The Director will answer the appeal within 5 working days.


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Home > Escalante HS Tierra Amarilla, New Mexico Home |
Escalante High School Tierra Amarilla, NM Alumni
The alumni of Escalante in Tierra Amarilla, New Mexico are encouraged to use this site to relive their time in high school by sharing with former students and teachers of Escalante High School. If you are an alumn of Escalante you should register now in the alumni directory. We also encourage you to interact with the rest of the alumni on this site. You can find old friends, share photos and stay updated on the latest school news. You can share memories of those activities that you were involved with at Escalante HS and you can view other alumni and read what other former students have posted about the time they spent at Escalante.


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Phil Jackson through the years
Los Angeles Lakers head coach Phil Jackson reacts during play against the Dallas Mavericks in Game Four of the Western Conference Semifinals during the 2011 NBA Playoffs at American Airlines Center in Dallas.
Los Angeles Lakers vice president of business operations, Jeannie Buss and coach Phil Jackson pose for a photograph following the ring ceremony commemorating the Lakers' 2009-10 NBA championship before a game against the Houston Rockets at Staples Center in Los Angeles.
Phil Jackson directs his Lakers team before taking on the Boston Celtics in Game 7 of the 2010 NBA Finals at Staples Center in Los Angeles.
Lakers head coach Phil Jackson tries to get the attention of his team during the second half of Game 6 of the NBA Finals against Boston at Staples Center. The Lakers rolled to a 89-67 win over the Celtics to force a Game 7.
As is custom when the NBA Playoffs begin, Lakers head coach Phil Jackson wore one of his championship rings during Game 1 of the NBA Western Conference Playoffs. The Lakers went on to an 87-79 win over the Oklahoma City Thunder.
Lakers coach Phil Jackson flashes 10 fingers referring to his 10 NBA Championships after defeating the Orlando Magic in Game 5 of the 2009 NBA Finals at Amway Arena in Orlando. The Lakers won the clinching game 99-86.
Kobe Bryant and coach Phil Jackson celebrate after the Lakers won the NBA Championship, defeating the Orlando Magic in Game 5 of the 2009 NBA Finals.
Lakers coach Phil Jackson tries to explain to the referee how his players are being held during Game 1 of the 2004 Finals against the Pistons at the Staples Center in Los Angeles.
Lakers head coach Phil Jackson, center, answers questions during training camp in Honolulu.
Coach Phil Jackson, left, Shaquille O'Neal, center, and Kobe Bryant celebrate their championship at the end of Game 4 of the NBA Finals after sweeping the New Jersey Nets at Continental Airlines Arena in East Rutherford, N.J..
Kobe Bryant, left, coach Phil Jackson, center, and Shaquille O'Neal pose for a portrait during the Lakers' 2001-02 season.
Los Angeles Lakers coach Phil Jackson celebrates with the Larry O'Brien NBA Championship trophy at the Staples Center in Los Angeles. About 200,000 fans lined the streets to cheer on the Lakers after they won the 2000 title.
Chicago Bulls coach Phil Jackson celebrates in the locker room after winning the Bulls' sixth championship, and second threepeat, after defeating the Utah Jazz in Game 6 of the 1998 NBA Finals, 87-86.
Phil Jackson confers with Steve Kerr (25), Jud Buechler and Toni Kukoc (7) during a second-quarter timeout during Game 4 of NBA Finals against the Utah Jazz.
Chicago Bulls players, from left to right, Ron Harper, Dennis Rodman, Scottie Pippen, Michael Jordan and coach Phil Jackson hold up the Bulls' five championship trophies at a rally in Chicago's Grant Park. The Bulls defeated the Utah Jazz to win that fifth title.
The Chicago Bulls' Dennis Rodman pleads his case with coach Phil Jackson after he received an early technical foul during the first quarter in Game 2 against the Miami Heat in the Eastern Conference finals in Chicago.
Chicago Bulls head coach Phil Jackson yells instructions to his team from the bench in a game during the 1996-97 season.
Chicago Bulls head coach Phil Jackson holds up the Larry O'Brien NBA championship trophy after defeating the Seattle SuperSonics in the 1996 NBA Finals.
Chicago Bulls head coach Phil Jackson, left, and Michael Jordan talk during a timeout in their Eastern Conference Finals game in Orlando against the Magic.
Bulls coach Phil Jackson holds the 1991 Larry O'Brien NBA Championship trophy at the United Center in Chicago. The Bulls defeated Jackson's future team, the Los Angeles Lakers, in the NBA Finals to win Jackson's first title as a coach.
Phil Jackson of the New York Knicks looks on during a 1974 game against the Boston Celtics at the Boston Garden in Boston.
The Knicks' Phil Jackson (18) makes a move to the basket during a game against the Boston Celtics in 1973 at the Boston Garden in Boston.
Phil Jackson (35) of North Dakota University is shown in action against University of Minnesota furing a 1965 game.
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It is that time of the month again when almost 1000 Daring Bakers reveal their baking creations to the world. This month's challenge was hosted by the founders of this amazing group, Ivonne and my lovely and beautiful friend Lisa and co-hosted by Fran and Shea (did I mention we are almost 1000 members?) There is a lot going on in the Daring Bakers community, a new forum, soon a new website, lots of food talk and, of course, lots of baking. So what challenge did our lovely Daring Baker mothers choose for this month? Another snobish delicious French dessert, Opera Cake.
This challenge was special because it was dedicated to Barbara. She will always be a honorary DB for her bravery and character in the face of a challenge. Barbara is the force behind the food blog event called A Taste of Yellow (you've heard of it) that supports the LiveStrong Foundation started by Lance Armstrong. That's why we were encouraged to make our cakes with a yellow flavor (or at least not dark chocolaty) What did I do for this challenge? An orange-white chocolate Opera Cake.
What is an Opera Cake? Opera Cake is a layer cake made with a sponge cake or joconde, syrup, buttercream (have you noticed that the Daring Bakers like buttercream a lot?), a mousse and a chocolate glaze. Making this cake wasn't really hard (after all, we've made the different components of the cake in past challenges), it was only time consuming. It took me almost a whole day to make it. That's why I didn't really worry about making it look pretty. We had a cook out that day and after making this cake, a mango guacamole, a tropical salad and all the cooking and baking of last week I wasn't really in the mood for decorating (my baking Achilles' heel)
But how did it taste? I only had a little tiny piece (I am still trying to lose those last stubborn extra pounds), but I give it an 8 out of 10. The orange, almond and chocolate flavors blended really nicely, though the cake was a little bit on the too sweet side. This cake was worth making because of the learning process, but if you don't have the time or patience to bake this kind of cake, there are lot of other options out there that require less time and effort with very similar results. But if you want to impress somebody with your snobby French baking skills, this is the cake to bake. (please note that this is my very own and humble opinion)
For the complete recipe, please visit Ivonne's blog. I am so excited because I was invited by my lovely friend Kelly to co-host next month's challenge. Don't miss out, It is going to be a lot of fun!
Buen Provecho!
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(45) Readers Comments
I agree about the sweetness. And yes, I sure have gotten familiar with buttercream since joining the DBs! I'm looking forward to seeing what you and Kelly have in store for us next month.
Looks like a great challenge and I love the flavor combination!
Can't wait to find out about next month's challenge . . . I'm guessing not French or snobbish? Looking forward to it!
Sarah -
It looks gorgeous! This cake was off the hook in terms of difficulty. I bow down to all of you!
If you ask me, it looks so yummy that there is no need to decorate it, I think it is elegant
Beautiful cake, Ben! And how cool that you're hosting next month!
¿cómo que quedó demasiado dulce?? que mala onda, tan rico que se ve con el chocolate blanco! jejeje!
Que padre que te toca el próximo mes!! dime que es!!!!!!
Looks good! I like the sound of the orange and white chocolate flavour combo.
w00t! Ben. Orange in a dessert like this always makes me think of 50-50 bars. YUM. Count me in as a bonafide snob. I love me some French pastry. Uh-huh! And cheers on our upcoming challenge!
Your cake is beautifully executed Ben. I love your chopice of flavours. Well done my friend:D
While your cake may not be the prettiest I've seen (don't worry, mine won't be winning any competitions either) it certainly sounds delish (I love oranges)! Looking forward to what you and Kelly throw at us next month. Can't wait!


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quote:I ended up getting really good seats. The StubHub prices are insane, considering there are still tix on the website.
quote:the $80 tix i bought yesterday are going for $748 a piece on stubhub
quote:Well, STL is closer anyways. England has a friendly the next week so I doubt the English guys will be there
quote:The $135 tix I got are around $800. Insane
quote:If you don't sell them you a dummy.


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Contact Information
Engineering Department
Jose Pastrana, P.E., CFM
Mailing Address:
Engineering Department
P.O. Box 424
Baytown, Texas 77522
Physical Address:
Baytown City Hall
2401 Market Street
Baytown, TX 77522
Call (281) 420-6545
Commercial Water Taps
Dear Contractor/Customer:
- Service must be set up with the City before the meter can be purchased. Either
the contractor or the owner may set up the account. A deposit is required and
a deposit contract will need to be signed. - The City uses Neptune meters.
- Please pay for your meter, specified in City approved plans, at the Utility Billing Office, 2505 Market Street, while setting up your account.
- Please bring your permit specifying meter(s) needed.
- Some larger meters have to be ordered, and delivery time to the City may take up to four weeks .
- The meter should be picked up at the Municipal Service Center located at 2123 Market Street, Baytown, Texas.
- Please have your receipt readily available when you go to pick up your meter.
- After tap is made and meter set, the following information should be faxed
to 281-420-6514, Attention: Customer Service, or sent to the City of Baytown,
Attention: Utility Billing Department, P.O. Box 424, Baytown, TX 77522.- Meter ID Number
- Meter Make: Neptune
- Meter Model (Any meter over 2" should be a compound meter.)
- Meter Size
- Number of digits
- Beginning Reading
- Date Installed
- This information must be provided to the City as soon as possible, preferably
the day the meter is installed or the next day.
Thank you for your cooperation in this matter!
Related Forms and Documents | ||
Water Meter Price List | ||
Application Form for Commercial Service | PDF (50k) | Doc (55k) |
Confidentiality of Personal Information Form | PDF (42k) | Doc (52k) |


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quote:Vick is not even close to elite. I will trade you Donald Brown for him.
quote:Toss in the Bears D and he's yours..
quote: Toss in the Bears D and he's yours..
quote:Hell no. Bears D is a truly elite fantasy player.
quote:Bears D
quote:Best auction dollar eva
quote:so far I like my Texans D for 2 bucks and Alfred Morris for 4
quote:The Chicago D amazes me with how well they are playing. They average age on that defense is close to 30, and they have to have the oldest collection of linebackers in the league with their average NFL experience at nearly 10.
quote:the players dropped on Wed when waivers are processed should have to be purchased again when they finally become FA's again... And i the only one that thinks this?


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Culture Connect Featured Event
Gandhi said, "Almost everything you do may seem insignificant but it is very important that you do it." That is the spirit of this year's Children's Peace Festival. Children 6-12 (and their younger brothers and sisters) accompanied by an adult, are invited to come and enjoy storytelling, dance, face painting, games, music, crafts and more. The Festival is free and open to all on Sunday, June 23, 1-5 p.m. at the Holy Family Retreat Center, 303 Tunxis Rd., West Hartford, CT. Rain or Shine! Some of our featured contributors include: Music by APPLEJOY, stories by Sara DeBeer, dance by Lisa Muscanell, balloon play with Kelly Verret.
This year's Festival will include a poster display and a poetry reading, and we're looking forward to seeing or hearing children's thoughts about peace. If you are a young artist and/or a young poet, you may drop off your poster or poem on the theme of peace in advance (or mail them to): Holy Family Retreat Center c/o Fr John, 303 Tunxis Rd, West Hartford 06107.
Please join us for all or part of the afternoon to celebrate ten years of learning about peacemaking.