text:
City Council watered down Mayor John Cranley's parking plan to
just two proposals: upgrading parking meters and increased enforcement. Council and public opposition ultimately proved too much for increasing neighborhood rates and expanded evening hours at major hubs. The changes
mean less revenue for the city but reduced parking costs for
residents. Still, with the parking plan changing almost daily, it's
unclear whether the current iteration will be the final proposal that
the Neighborhood Committee and City Council ultimately pass.
Compare: Cranley's original parking plan versus the parking privatization plan.Meanwhile, Xerox, the private operator that took over Cincinnati's parking meters in the parking privatization plan, proposed its own version of a parking plan in which the company manages parking meters while City Council retains control over setting hours, rates and enforcement. Xerox says its plan will generate more revenue. But Cranley rejected Xerox's plan weeks ago.
Commentary: "County Should Accept Responsible Bidder Law."
Cranley yesterday announced he's partnering with Dayton Mayor Nan Whaley to get a share of $1.3 billion in federal funds that would help attract manufacturing. The two cities will compete as one community for the federal Investing in Manufacturing Communities Partnership. The competition's 12 winners will each receive part of the $1.3 billion pot. Even if Cincinnati and Dayton don't win, Cranley said the competition will at least get them thinking about working together as a community for manufacturing jobs.
The Republican-controlled Ohio legislature yesterday approved controversial election bills that reduce the state's early voting period by one week and restrict counties' abilities to mail out unsolicited absentee ballot applications. Democrats say the measures are meant to suppress voters, but Republicans argue the changes are supposed to set uniform standards across the state. At least one top Ohio Republican previously admitted the measures were supposed to suppress voters, particularly "the urban — read African-American — voter-turnout machine." Gov. John Kasich is now the only person that stands between the bill becoming law.
The city plans to undertake a pothole-fixing blitz in March.
The Greater Cincinnati Port Authority will begin its 14-neighborhood rehabilitation plan in Evanston, where the agency will target about 100 properties.
With a "virtual online menu" and access to vocational education in the seventh grade, Gov. Kasich says he wants to get Ohio students planning their careers much earlier.
The Ohio House approved a plan that will give schools four more calamity days — more popularly known as "snow days" — for the current school year. The bill now heads to the Ohio Senate and Kasich.
U.S. Sen Sherrod Brown wants to close a loophole in Medicare that costs seniors thousands of dollars in unexpected medical bills.
Quinnipiac University's most recent poll found Ohioans would choose Hillary Clinton over Kasich and other Republicans for president.
Whooping cough appears to be evolving in response to its vaccine.
Follow CityBeat on Twitter:
• Main: @CityBeatCincy
• News: @CityBeat_News
• Music: @CityBeatMusic
• German Lopez: @germanrlopez
The city administration yesterday disputed the findings of a June 20 memo that suggested the city is getting a bad deal from its parking lease agreement with the Greater Cincinnati Port Authority, but controversy remains about why the city administration withheld the memo from City Council and the Port Authority for three-plus weeks. Opponents of the parking plan are now attempting to use the memo to convince the Port Authority to reject the lease with Xerox, but the Port Authority insists that the memo is laced with inaccuracies and technical errors. The city is pursuing the lease to obtain a $92 million lump sum and at least $3 million in annual payments, according to city estimates. The money will be used to pay for future budget gaps and development projects, including the I-71/MLK Interchange.
City Manager Milton Dohoney defended the city administration's decision to withhold the June 20 memo, but several council members are angered by what they call a "lack of transparency." Still, Vice Mayor Roxanne Qualls argued the administration's decision to keep the memo from City Council was understandable because the memo was based on faulty information.The Cincinnati streetcar got an opening date yesterday: Sept. 15, 2016. The grand opening comes after years of political controversy, pulled funding and two referendum efforts nearly killed the project. Ever since it was first proposed, the streetcar project has been engulfed in misrepresentations, which CityBeat covered here.
A federal judge made permanent his earlier decision that Ohio must count provisional ballots if they're submitted in the right polling place but wrong precinct. The ruling is being taken as a victory by voting-rights advocates.
Cincinnati is negotiating to claw back its incentive with Kendle International Inc., which agreed in 2008 to keep its headquarters and create jobs at the city's Carew Tower. The agreement gave Kendle $200,000 over 10 years on the condition it steadily grew jobs. The failure may add further doubt to the value of job deals, which were criticized earlier in the year by a report CityBeat covered here.
Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Christ Hospital and Bethesda North Hospital are among the best hospitals in the nation, according to U.S. News's "Best Hospitals" feature.
Here are some of the odd things that made it into the two-year state budget.
Gov. John Kasich signed a Columbus school plan that will allow levy money to be shared with charter schools that partner with the Columbus school district.
The Senate is the best place in the country to eat hot dogs, according to Food & Wine.
More U.S. hospitals now treat gay parents equally.
Dogs apparently can watch television, which is good news for an Israeli channel explicitly aimed at dogs.
City Manager Milton Dohoney signed an agreement Monday to lease its parking meters, lots and garages to the Greater Cincinnati Port Authority, but the mayor and City Council may still make changes to the controversial parking plan before it's implemented. In the past week, the Hamilton County Court of Appeals reversed a lower court's ruling, made the parking plan insusceptible to a referendum and refused to delay enforcement on the ruling, which allowed the city manager to sign the lease within days. Still, the city won't spend the $92 million lump sum from the lease until there is legal certainty, meaning until appeals from opponents are exhausted. (Correction: The city signed the lease Monday, not Tuesday as originally reported in the story. The city made the announcement Tuesday, which caused confusion and miscommunication.)
City Council is discussing whether it needs to set funds for the I-71/MLK Interchange project. The state is asking the city to contribute $20 million, but some council members are questioning whether the state would pursue the project without city support. The city administration says the state is insisting on the city's participation. City Council originally planned to use funds from the parking lease to pick up the city's share of the tab for the project, which officials estimate will produce thousands of jobs in the region.
After introducing two competing Medicaid bills in the Ohio House, leaders said they're unlikely to vote on the bipartisan measures before the General Assembly's summer recess. One of the bills would create a Medicaid oversight committee and instruct the state Medicaid director to find cost savings without cutting benefits. The other bill would take up the federally funded Medicaid expansion while taking measures to diminish access to narcotics through the health care system and encourage cost sharing and private sector plans among Medicaid recipients. Gov. John Kasich is still pushing the General Assembly to pass the Medicaid expansion, whether it's through the budget, these bills or other means.
Ohio will end the current budget year with an unused surplus of $397 million, according to the state budget director. Kasich says the money should go toward tax cuts. The Ohio House and Senate are currently discussing merging their tax plans in the 2014-2015 budget, which could mean taking up smaller versions of the House's 7-percent across-the-board income tax cut and the Senate's 50-percent income tax reduction for business owners worth up to $375,000 of annual income.
Sequestration, a series of across-the-board federal budget cuts, will cost Ohio $284 million in fiscal year 2013, according to a Policy Matters Ohio report. For the state, that means slower economic growth, furloughed defense workers, cuts to county funds for social services, public health service reductions and further downsizing of the Head Start program, which supports preschool. CityBeat covered the early impact of sequestration in Ohio here.
The American Medical Association will soon decide if obesity is a disease.
The U.S. House passed an anti-abortion bill that would restrict almost all abortions to the first 20 weeks since conception. The bill is unlikely to move past the House.
Landlords are less likely to respond to rental inquiries from gay couples.
The Congressional Budget Office says immigration reform would save money and boost economic growth.
Researchers have apparently mastered the art of the bat and can now "hear" the size of a room.
Got questions for CityBeat about anything related to Cincinnati? Submit your questions here and we'll try to get back to you in our first Answers Issue.
CityBeat is looking to talk to convicted drug offenders from Ohio for an upcoming cover story. If you'd like to participate or know anyone willing to participate, email firstname.lastname@example.com.
Early voting for the 2013 City Council and mayoral elections is now underway. Find your voting location here. Normal voting hours are 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., although some days are extended.
On Oct. 29, local residents will be able to give feedback to Cincinnati officials about the city budget — and also nab some free pizza. The open budgeting event is from 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. on Oct. 29 at 1115 Bates Ave., Cincinnati.
The Greater Cincinnati Port Authority on Saturday approved bond sales and contract agreements for the controversial parking plan. The approval is the final major step necessary for the Port Authority and its private partners to take over Cincinnati's parking meters, lots and garages after the city leased the assets to the nonprofit development agency earlier in the year. The deal is supposed to raise $85 million in upfront funds and at least $3 million in annual payments for the city, which the city administration previously planned to use for development projects and operating budget gaps. But opponents of the deal say the city is giving up far too much control over its parking assets, which they argue could cause parking rates to skyrocket as private operators attempt to maximize profits.
Ohio's Controlling Board, a seven-member legislative panel, is expected to decide today whether it will use federal funds to expand the state's Medicaid program to more low-income Ohioans. Gov. John Kasich opted to bypass the legislature and put the decision to the Controlling Board after months of failing to convince his fellow Republicans in the Ohio House and Senate to take up the expansion. But critics of the expansion have threatened to sue the Kasich administration if it bypasses the legislature. Under Obamacare, the federal government will pay for the full expansion for the two years being considered; if Ohio ends up accepting the expansion beyond that, the federal government will pay for the entire expansion through 2016 then phase down its payments to an indefinite 90 percent of the expansion's cost. The Health Policy Institute of Ohio previously found the expansion would generate $1.8 billion for the state and insure nearly half a million Ohioans over the next decade.
Hamilton County commissioners could consider today whether to use excess tourist tax revenues
on more funding for tourism-related infrastructure projects. The tourist tax was previously
used to help build the Cincinnati and Sharonville convention centers and fund the Convention and Visitors Bureau, but the county administrator intends to lay out more options in his meeting with commissioners.
In the mayoral race between Vice Mayor Roxanne Qualls and ex-Councilman John Cranley, black voters could make the big decision.
Ohio Attorney General Mike DeWine on Friday warned about so-called sweetheart scams in which a con artist develops a relationship with a victim, typically through the Internet, before asking for money. The Attorney General's Consumer Protection Section has received about 70 complaints involving the scams since October 2011, resulting in an average loss of more than $14,000 with the highest reported loss coming in at $210,000, according to the attorney general.
Ohio's school chief ordered two Columbus charter schools to shut down for health and safety reasons and inadequate staffing.
Findlay Market is tapping into crowdsourcing to decide three new storefronts.
Ohio gas prices increased for the second week in a row.
A thermal wristband promises to keep the user's body at the perfect temperature.
Follow CityBeat on Twitter:
• Main: @CityBeatCincy
• News: @CityBeat_News
• Music: @CityBeatMusic
• German Lopez: @germanrlopez
Councilman P.G. Sittenfeld is asking Cincinnatians to take part in the Greater Cincinnati Day of Fasting today and put off lunch to help support the Freestore Foodbank. Sittenfeld's office said in a press release that the event will allow participants to "experience a small measure of the hunger that is a part of many people's daily lives." There will be a ceremony for the event at noon in Fountain Square, where participants will be able to donate to the Freestore Foodbank.
March was another decent month for jobs in Cincinnati, with the seasonally unadjusted unemployment rate dropping to 7.5 percent, down from a revised 7.9 percent in February and 8 percent in March 2012. Michael Jones, research director at the University of Cincinnati Economics Center, says most of the job growth is attributable to Cincinnati's growing health care services, but manufacturing has also provided a local boon.
An anonymously posted video questions the legitimacy of some parking plan referendum petitions, but so far no formal challenges have been filed against the referendum effort. Even if somebody were to file a challenge, Hamilton County Board of Elections Chairman Tim Burke says it would required a lot — nearly 4,000 signatures — to halt a referendum: "Because they are so far over, there's going to have to be more evidence by any petitioner that there are problems well beyond those five or six sights shown in the video."
There is now a local effort to embrace the Cincinnati Preschool Promise, a private-public partnership that would get more local children in preschool. The current goal is to get 25 to 50 children in preschool in a pilot program this fall. Studies show preschool is one of the best investments that can be made for the economy in the long term. Local preschool services were recently cut as a consequence of federal sequestration, a series of across-the-board federal spending cuts that began March 1.
UC President Santa Ono is recommending the school freeze in-state tuition for the next school year — a measure the UC Board of Trustees will consider in June. Ono also said he will not take a salary increase or bonus for the next two years, and he is asking the school to sell the presidential condo and use the money to pay for scholarships.
While testifying to legislators reviewing his two-year budget request, State Treasurer Josh Mandel said his office has been targeted by cyberattacks, and the technology currently available to his department is not good enough to hold off the attacks.
Humana will hire 60 people for its customer service center in downtown.
Brain cells will control the power plants of the future.
In a press release, Mayor Mark Mallory proclaimed today Zips' Cafe Day because the restaurant is finally adding bacon to its cheeseburger lineup.
Mayor John Cranley appears to be working on another parking deal to upgrade Cincinnati's parking meters, although the mayor's office says this plan won't give up control of the city's parking meters to a private entity. At the same time, it seems the deal won't produce a large lump-sum like the defunct parking privatization plan did. Cranley and other opponents of the old parking plan have long said that, even without privatization, the city's parking meters need to be upgraded to accept credit card payments, among other modern features.
The warden who oversaw Dennis McGuire's 26-minute, seemingly painful execution says it went "very well." The execution, the longest since Ohio restarted use of the death penalty in 1999, drew international attention, particularly because many blamed the long time to kill on the state's use of a cocktail of drugs never tried before in the United States. The warden's statements essentially reject those concerns. Still, state officials say they're conducting a third review of McGuire's execution in particular, which is apparently uncommon. CityBeat covered the execution in further detail here.
An Ohio House bill could boost funding to local governments affected by the fracking boom by hiking the severance tax on oil and gas companies. Fracking is a drilling technique in which millions of gallons of water, sand and chemicals are pumped underground to unlock oil and gas reserves. Its widespread use has spurred an economic boom across the country, including northeast Ohio. While it's boosted the overall economy, it's also raised environmental and displacement concerns, particularly in areas where the boom is most active. CityBeat covered the fracking boom in further detail here.
In response to complaints about slow snow plowing, the city tweeted, "We've got 2,800+ lane miles to clear. It's going to take some time. Please, go slow & be patient today as our crews work 'round-the-clock."
In light of yesterday's "debate" over evolution and biblical creationism, here are four things the anti-science crowd denies.
An Ohio Senate bill would prohibit sales of e-cigarettes to those younger than 18, but some anti-smoking activists worry the bill's classification of e-cigarettes as an "alternative nicotine product" instead of a tobacco product could loosen regulations on the potentially cancer-causing product.
Meanwhile, CVS plans to stop selling tobacco products as it focuses more on health care.
Ohio's standardized tests for grades 3-8 could be delayed after winter storms forced so many school closings.
The Cincinnati Fire Department is looking into the possibility of using drones — unmanned aerial vehicles — in the future through a partnership with the University of Cincinnati.
A Salvadoran newspaper used a drone to cover a presidential election.
Follow CityBeat on Twitter:
• Main: @CityBeatCincy
• News: @CityBeat_News
• Music: @CityBeatMusic
• German Lopez: @germanrlopez
A federal court in Cincinnati could soon decide whether
married same-sex parents should be recognized by Ohio on their
children's birth certificates. Civil rights attorney Alphonse
Gerhardstein filed the lawsuit on behalf of four same-sex couples who
married outside the state and an adoption agency that helped one of the
couples adopt a child in Ohio. The lawsuit argues leaving one parent
unnamed perpetuates harmful social stigmas and potentially endangers a
child's life by making it more difficult for a parent to get his child
help in case of emergencies. Although opponents of LGBT rights argue allowing gay couples to adopt hurts children, the research suggests widespread discrimination and same-sex parents' limited rights are the real threats to gay couples' sons and daughters.
Mayor John Cranley is crafting a new plan to upgrade Cincinnati's parking system while retaining local control. Under the drafted plan analyzed by The Business Courier, the Greater Cincinnati Port Authority would issue $25 million in bonds backed by parking revenues. To pay for the new costs, parking meter rates in neighborhoods — but not downtown — would increase by 25 cents per hour to 75 cents per hour, and the city would hire more officers to increase enforcement. The new parking meters would take credit card payments, but smartphone payments currently aren't in the plan.
A revised version of the Ohio House's fracking tax bill increases the severance tax on oil and gas companies but cuts the income tax more and directs funding to areas most affected by the state's oil and gas boom. Fracking is a drilling technique in which millions of gallons of water, sand and chemicals are pumped underground to unlock oil and gas reserves. Following its widespread adoption, the United States, including Ohio, began pumping out natural gas at record levels. But critics worry the technique could pollute and contaminate surrounding air and water resources. CityBeat covered fracking in greater detail here.
As a result of the harsh winter, Cincinnati's winter shelter for the homeless has been extra busy this year. Some City Council members appear to be considering a more standardized funding plan for the shelter, which traditionally relies largely on private funding.
The Cincinnati Reds Opening Day Parade will take a slight detour this year to avoid streetcar construction.
No surprise here: Ohio is among the worst states for funding transit projects.
Cincinnati, Columbus and Cleveland want to know what it would take to host the 2016 Republican National Convention, which will name the GOP's presidential candidate.
Fixing food deserts alone won't make people eat healthier, a new study found.
A Los Angeles newscaster mixed up Samuel L. Jackson with Laurence Fishburne.
Astronomers say they found the oldest known star in the universe. At more than 13 billion years old, the star is about three times the age of the Sun.
Follow CityBeat on Twitter:
• Main: @CityBeatCincy
• News: @CityBeat_News
• Music: @CityBeatMusic
• German Lopez: @germanrlopez
Mayor John Cranley says his parking plan intends to alleviate Cincinnati's ongoing budget woes by increasing parking revenue, but the plan will need approval from a majority of City Council to become law. The plan wouldn't increase parking meter rates downtown, but it would increase neighborhood rates by 25 cents to 75 cents an hour. The plan would also increase enforcement at parking meters, which could lead to more tickets, and extend enforcement hours to 9 p.m. around the University of Cincinnati, Short Vine in Corryville, Over-the-Rhine and downtown. But the plan would not give control of the city's parking meter rates and hours to outside entities, like the parking privatization plan did. Cranley plans to send the proposal to the Neighborhood Committee, with a full council vote possible in two weeks.
An Ohio House committee yesterday cleared a pair of controversial election bills that would reduce the state's early voting period by one week — effectively eliminating a "Golden Week" in which voters can register and vote at the same time — and restrict counties' abilities to mail out absentee ballot applications. The bills wouldn't go into effect until after the May 6 primary. Democrats say the bills are blatant attempts at voter suppression, but Republicans, some of whom acknowledge they politically benefit from reduced access to voting, say the reform is necessary to eliminate voting disparities between urban and rural counties. The bills still need approval from the Republican-controlled Ohio House and Republican Gov. John Kasich to become law.
A bill placing age requirements on electronic cigarettes
yesterday passed an Ohio Senate committee. Critics of the bill argue it
doesn't go far enough because it puts e-cigarettes in a different
category than tobacco, which exempts e-cigarettes from higher taxes and
stricter regulations even though they contain addictive substances and
potential health risks. Kasich and the rest of the legislature need to OK the proposal before it becomes law.
Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center reopened three school-based health clinics closed after Neighborhood Health Care's abrupt shutdown.
A poll worker in Avondale allegedly voted twice, according to the Hamilton County Board of Elections.
The Ohio Department of Education plans to increase the number of weeks schools can administer state tests to alleviate time concerns brought on by excessive snow days.
Meanwhile, the Ohio House plans to vote on a bill that would let schools take on more snow days this year.
A Christian university located south of Columbus gets public dollars to teach "biblical truth," an Akron Beacon Journal investigation found. And the school's president and lobbyist just happen to sit on the Ohio Board of Education.
NBC correspondent Tom Brokaw revealed he has cancer.
RoboCop isn't that far off from reality.
Follow CityBeat on Twitter:
• Main: @CityBeatCincy
• News: @CityBeat_News
• Music: @CityBeatMusic
• German Lopez: @germanrlopez

subset: commoncrawl


text:
- Human Evolution Research
- Climate and Human Evolution
- Anthropocene: The Age of Humans
- Asian Research Projects
- East African Research Projects
- Human Origins Program Team
- What's Hot In Human Origins?
- Fossil Forensics: Interactive
- E. A. Mammal Dentition Database
- Human Evolution Evidence
- Behavior
- 3D Collection
- Human Fossils
- Human Family Tree
- Genetics
- Dating
- Timeline Interactive
- Human Characteristics
- Education
- Exhibit
- About Us
- Multimedia
HOT (Human Origins Today) Topic: The anatomy of Homo floresiensis
Friday, February 28, 2014 - 12:00 - 13:00
Location:Hall of Human Origins, NMNH, Smithsonian Institution
Come join our discussion about the anatomy of Homo floresiensis, the "hobbits" of human evolution, led by Dr. Matt Tocheri of the Smithsonian's Human Origins Program.
Free; no advance reservation or admission required.
Contact Us for additional information about this event.


text:
By clicking Continue, I agree to the Terms of Service and Privacy Statement
Already have an account?
Sand Castle Winery's vintages are paired with choice of cupcakes
Multiple Locations
$26 $14
Vineyard Tour and Wine Tasting for Two or Four at Auburn Road Vineyard & Winery (47% Off)
Auburn Road Vineyards
Guests tour secluded countryside vineyard before enjoying wine pressed from the vineyard's grapes
View Deal
Wine Tasting for Four or Six at Chaddsford Winery (48% Off)
Chaddsford Winery
See facilities and taste 6-8 wines, including dry whites, dry reds, and sweet wines
Up to 52% Off Winery Concert & Glass of Wine at Dove Valley Wine
Dove Valley Wine
From the merchant: Evening of live music and award winning wine . Food available for purchase .No outside food or beverages allowed
Wine Tasting for Two or Four with Chocolate at Cassinelli Winery & Vineyards (Up to55% Off)
Cassinelli Winery & Vineyards
Cassinelli Winery and Vineyards
Chocolate complements award-winning, premium wine, both of which can be enjoyed amongst 110 wooded & open acres on Marlyand's eastern shore
Wine-Tasting Packages with a Slate Coaster for Two or Four at Wagonhouse Winery (Up to 50% Off)
Wagonhouse Winery
Sip 18 wines during a tasting that includes a slate coaster, souvenir glasses, Cherry Grove Farm cheeses, and Sweet Mary's truffles
Wine and Cheese Tasting with Optional Winery Tour at Blue Mountain Vineyards & Cellars (Up to 54% Off)
Blue Mountain Vineyards & Cellars
Sample five varietals of wines paired with Di Bruno Bros. cheeses and learn about the winemaking process
Wine-Tasting Event for 2 or 4 with Barbecue at Monroeville Vineyard & Winery on Saturday, May 30 (Up to 38% Off)
Monroeville Vineyard & Winery
Sample seven different wines and dig into a lunch of pulled pork or pulled chicken from Hawg's Breath Barbecue as live music plays outside
Philly Wine Tasting and Food Pairing for 2, 4, or 6 at Peddler's Village Tasting Room (Up to 33% Off). 4 Options.
Peddler's Village Tasting Room
Wine and food pairing and tasting with a focus on Philly favorites includes keepsake glasses to take home
Wine Tasting/Paint Party for 4, 6, or 10 In Home, or for 1 or 2 at Local Pub from Sipping Pretty (Up to 60% Off)
Sipping Pretty
During wine tasting/paint parties at a private home or in a local pub, guests sample wines while painting on canvas
Premium Wine Tasting for Two or Four with Cheese and Take-Home Wine Glasses at Basignani Winery (50% Off)
Basignani Winery
Premium tasting introduces palates to eight handcrafted, cellar-aged wines from grapes grown on premises
Wine Tasting for Two or Four with Take-Home Bottles and Wine Glasses at Royal Rabbit Vineyards (Up to 42%Off)
Royal Rabbit Vineyards
Parkton Township
Boutique Winery offers tastings on Saturday and Sunday afternoons; customers receive wine glasses and bottles to take home
Wine Tasting for Two or Four at Plagido's Winery (Up to 52% Off)
Plagido's Winery
Guests sip wine samples made from New Jersey–grown grapes at a scenic, seven-year-old family vineyard and winery
Wine Tasting for Four or Six with Keepsake Wine Glasses at Naylor Wine Cellars (Up to 43% Off)
Naylor Wine Cellars
Sample some of the winery's best creations with a session that includes five samplings and a take-home glass per guest
Loading ...


text:
DEFINITION of 'Unlawful Loan'
A generic term used to describe the act of giving money to another party in exchange for future repayment of the principal amount plus interest in a way that breaks a law. Examples include loans with illegally high interest rates, loans in amounts exceeding legal lending limits and loans that disguise their true cost in violation of the Truth in Lending Act.
INVESTOPEDIA EXPLAINS 'Unlawful Loan'
The Truth in Lending Act applies to most types of credit, whether it be closed-end credit (such as an auto loan or mortgage) or open-ended credit (such as a credit card). The Act regulates what companies can advertise and say about the benefits of their loans or services.
Legal Lending LimitThe aggregate maximum dollar amount that a single bank can lend ...
Moore's LawAn observation made by Intel co-founder Gordon Moore in 1965. ...
Predatory LendingUnscrupulous actions carried out by a lender to entice, induce ...
Subprime LoanA type of loan that is offered at a rate above prime to individuals ...
LoanThe act of giving money, property or other material goods to ...
Interest1. The charge for the privilege of borrowing money, typically ...
Related Articles
Options & Futures
Payday Loans Don't PayHold too tightly to this rescue line and you'll soon be drowning in debt.
Investing Basics
Subprime Lending: Helping Hand Or Underhanded?These loans can spell disaster for borrowers, but that doesn't mean they should be condemned.
Options & Futures
Different Needs, Different LoansFind out what options are available when it comes to borrowing money.
Venezuela Teeters On Edge As Oil Revenues ShrinkLow oil prices have drastically revised the economic status quo -- dealing a destabilizing blow to oil-exporters like Venezuela due to falling oil revenue.
What's an Agency Problem?An agency problem occurs when a conflict of interest arises for an agent -- a person acting on behalf of another person. The conflict of interest arises when the agent's own interests are different ...
Investing Basics
The Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform ActThe Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act, commonly called Dodd-Frank, was passed in 2010. The goal of the act is to prevent another great recession like that of 2008, which ...
Stock Analysis
A New Economic Threat: State-Sponsored HackingState sponsored hacking attempts are becoming a major cause of concern to the US. Here is a list of US sectors most vulnerable to state-sponsored hacking.
Does A Junk Rating Reflect Russia's Fundamentals?Moody's, like other credit rating agencies, has downgraded Russia's sovereign debt rating to non-investment grade, but does this reflect Russia's economy?
Stock Analysis
Find The Right Discount Rate Amid Post-2007 RisksOIS discounting has become part of standard valuation techniques, in a market in which there is more uncertainty and less proxies for the risk-free rate.
Trading Strategies
Eyeing a Loan? Consider Skipping the BanksPeer-to-peer lending platforms, such as Lending Tree, Lending Club and Prosper, offer borrowers newfound leverage. Here's a look.


text:
Export data from SQL to a QuickBooks IIF file
Closed - This job posting has been filled.
Job Description
We are in need of a programmer to develop a script that is run from a PHP web interface that will generate a QuickBooks IIF file for easy import of transactions.
We use a PHP Point of Sale application and will need end of day reports to be downloaded as an IIF. The end user should be able to download an IIF file for any date range.
Here is a link to the IIF documentation by QuickBooks: http://support.quickbooks.intuit.c
The PHP system can be located here: https://demo.phppointofsale.com/in
Feel free to download the database export under settings to get an understanding of how the database is layed out.


text:
Nicki Minaj - Page 2
Listen to a Dramatic Reading of Nicki Minaj's 'Anaconda' [VIDEO]
Beyonce Releases 'Flawless (Remix)' Music Video Feat. Nicki Minaj
Barn? Check. Haybales? Check. Booty? Check. It's the Hoedown Version of 'Anaconda' You've Been Waiting For
Spin your partner round-and-round and twerk it.The folks at Postmodern Jukebox have outdone themselves this time with a bluegrass, hoedown version of Nicki Minaj's Anaconda.
PopCrush Mini-Mix 27: Featuring Taylor Swift, Nicki Minaj + More [LISTEN]
Nicki Minaj Announces New 'Pinkprint' Release Date
Nicki Minaj Teaches NYFW Models the 'Anaconda' Dance [VIDEO]
Kid Shows his Grandmother the Nicki Minaj 'Anaconda' Video
Nicki Minaj's Backup Dancer, Genise Ruidiaz, Opens Up About a Snake Biting Her During Rehearsals
Nicki Minaj's Sexiest, Steamiest Selfies
We're going to to borrow a phrase from Nicki Minaj here and shout: "POUND THE ALARM!"
The 'Anaconda' singer is known for having one of the most daring and sexiest Instagram feeds on the Internet, as she often delights fans with photos off her luscious curves and cleavage-heavy selfies.
We've picked the hottest, sexiest selfies from her Instagram and assembled them here for your enjoyment.


text:
Get credits that enable:
4 Windows or Linux VMs
24 x 7 for a month
And much more...
Learn more
Deploy 20 websites
over 10M mobile API calls
8 standard SQL Databases
Hadoop instance for a week
Sign-up for free and get $200 to spend on all Azure services
Connect Virtual Machines with Virtual Network for free.
Encoding 100GB of media
Transfer up to 1600GB of content
Send 200 million messages
Store 500,000 objects in Active Directory
Multi-factor auth with 100 users
Each free account includes:
Five free Basic licenses
Unlimited private code repos
And more!
This topic explains how to configure a web app using the Azure Portal.
The Application settings blade has settings grouped under several categories.
Framework versions. Set these options if your app uses any these frameworks:
For technical reasons, enabling Java for your app disables the .NET, PHP, and Python options.
Platform. Selects whether your web app runs in a 32-bit or 64-bit environment. The 64-bit environment requires Basic or Standard mode. Free and Shared modes always run in a 32-bit environment.
Web Sockets. Set ON to enable the WebSocket protocol; for example, if your web app uses ASP.NET SignalR or socket.io.
Always On. By default, web apps are unloaded if they are idle for some period of time. This lets the system conserve resources. In Basic or Standard mode, you can enable Always On to keep the app loaded all the time. If your app runs continuous web jobs, you should enable Always On, or the web jobs may not run reliably.
Managed Pipeline Version. Sets the IIS pipeline mode. Leave this set to Integrated (the default) unless you have a legacy app that requires an older version of IIS.
Auto Swap. If you enable Auto Swap for a deployment slot, App Service will automatically swap the web app into production when you push an update to that slot. For more information, see Deploy to staging slots for web apps in Azure App Service.
Remote Debugging. Enables remote debugging. When enabled, you can use the remote debugger in Visual Studio to connect directly to your web app. Remote debugging will remain enabled for 48 hours.
This section contains name/value pairs that you web app will load on start up.
For .NET apps, these settings are injected into your .NET configuration AppSettings at runtime, overriding existing settings.
PHP, Python, Java and Node applications can access these settings as environment variables at runtime. For each app setting, two environment variables are created; one with the name specified by the app setting entry, and another with a prefix of APPSETTING_. Both contain the same value.
Connection strings for linked resources.
For .NET apps, these connection strings are be injected into your .NET configuration connectionStrings settings at runtime, overriding existing entries where the key equals the linked database name.
For PHP, Python, Java and Node applications, these settings will be available as environment variables at runtime, prefixed with the connection type. The environment variable prefixes are as follows:
For example, if a MySql connection string were named connectionstring1, it would be accessed through the environment variable MYSQLCONNSTR_connectionString1.
The default document is the web page that is displayed at the root URL for a website. The first matching file in the list is used.
Web apps might use modules that route based on URL, rather than serving static content, in which case there is no default document as such.
Use this area to add custom script processors to handle requests for specific file extensions.
To configure virtual applications and directories, specify each virtual directory and its corresponding physical path relative to the website root. Optionally, you can select the Application checkbox to mark a virtual directory as an application.
To enable diagnostic logs:
Options for writing diagnostic logs from a web application that supports logging:
Level. When application logging is enabled, this option specifies the amount of information that will be recorded (Error, Warning, Information, or Verbose).
Web server logging. Logs are saved in the W3C extended log file format.
Detailed error messages. Saves detailed error messages .htm files. The files are saved under /LogFiles/DetailedErrors.
Failed request tracing. Logs failed requests to XML files. The files are saved under /LogFiles/W3SVCxxx, where xxx is a unique identifier. This folder contains an XSL file and one or more XML files. Make sure to download the XSL file, because it provides functionality for formatting and filtering the contents of the XML files.
To view the log files, you must create FTP credentials, as follows:
The full FTP user name is "app\username" where app is the name of your web app. The username is listed in the web app blade, under Essentials.
In Basic or Standard mode, you can upload SSL certificates for a custom domain. For more information, see Enable HTTPS for a web app.
To view your uploaded certificates, click All Settings > Custom domains and SSL.
Add custom domain names for your web app. For more information, see Configure a custom domain name for a web app in Azure App Service.
To view your domain names, click All Settings > Custom domains and SSL.
To view your deployment slots, click All Settings > Deployment slots.
In Basic or Standard mode, you can test the availability of HTTP or HTTPS endpoints, from up to three geo-distributed locations. A monitoring test fails if the HTTP response code is an error (4xx or 5xx) or the response takes more than 30 seconds. An endpoint is considered available if the monitoring tests succeed from all the specified locations.
For more information, see How to: Monitor web endpoint status.
If you want to get started with Azure App Service before signing up for an Azure account, go to Try App Service, where you can immediately create a short-lived starter web app in App Service. No credit cards required; no commitments.
Need more help using this Azure service? Go to an MSDN forum or StackOverflow discussion


text:
The car will also be put to the ultimate test at Le Mans in June.
The 2015 Le Mans endurance season will see the introduction of the new category of cars created by the ACO: the LM P3s (Le Mans prototype 3).
The car was testing at COTA and did not escape the camera.
Jean-Eric Vergne is determined to remain one of the world's top racing drivers.
We have our first glimpse of the 2015 Porsche 919 LMP1 hybrid.
Will Stevens has turned his eye to Le Mans in the event his F1 career stumbles at the first hurdle.
We now know the reason why Franck Montagny was unable to compete in the Formula E Putrajaya ePrix.
Scuderia Corsa will have a busy 2015 including TUSC, Le Mans, and PWC.
The FIA Endurance Commission has officially released sporting regulations for the 2015 WEC season.
Autoweek.com reports Ganassi Racing to field Le Mans effort, and two-car TUDOR Championship team.
Audi has announced their official 2015 driver lineup
The 2015 24 Hours of Le Mans will be held on June 13-14.
Wayne Taylor has confirmed to Motorsport.com his team's intention to compete in the iconic event next year.
Ten teams have won entry into the 2015 edition of the world's greatest race.
Korea has become a potential spanner in the works for Nico Hulkenberg.
Three new photos have come out, giving more insight into the now infamous crash.
Awarded for work on Nissan ZEOD powertrain.
Talk about crossover advertising.
There are some contractual complications with McLaren and Honda on Fernando's way to Le Mans.
Huge news as full-time F1 driver Nico Hulkenberg will also contest Le Mans in the same year!
The third entry will also compete at Spa.
Leading Winner in the History of the Le Mans, Sebring Classics
Mr. Le Mans is hanging up the helmet at the conclusion of this year.
Nine-time Le Mans winner Tom Kristensen retires from motor racing after his last race in World Endurance Championship the 30th of November, 2014.


text:
Hello, we are Mirek and Nina. We are both from Czech Republic, but living few years in Valencia already. We know city better than locals, because travel and culture is our hobby. We hope you will choose your stay with us and we will do what we can for you to enjoy it. As you can see from the reviews, we know how to host people and we are looking forward to meeting you.
We've been living on Valencia for quite some time so you can definitely count on some insider tips. We are fluent In Spanish, English, Czech, Slovak, Polish and also speak some German and Russian. Mirek is a Mensa member and the past chairman of Mensa Czech Republic, be sure then that if you feel like it you can talk about lots of topics.
Mirek's hobby is electronic music but he is absolutely crazy about travelling. With more than 40 countries visited so far there are still white places on his travel map. One of his best experiences was travelling for one month around the USA, all with the help of airbnb.
Fell free to ask him for travel tips, experience and stories :)


text:
The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce announced today that Robert F. Durkin will become the organization's President and Chief Executive Officer, effective September 9, 2013.
Last November, Austin J. Burke, announced his decision to step down as president and chief executive officer of The Chamber after serving for more than 31 years. For several months, an executive search committee has worked with Waverly Partners, an executive search firm, as well as The Chamber board to identify the most-qualified candidate.
"The Chamber board and the executive search committee have taken the process of identifying the best possible candidate for this position very seriously," said Chairman of the Board, Dan Santaniello of Fidelity Deposit & Discount Bank. "We are pleased to welcome Mr. Durkin as our new president. We are confident that his expertise coupled with his knowledge of our region illustrate why he is the candidate best-suited for leading The Chamber as it continues to improve the area's economic development and quality of life."
Durkin has more than 30 years of experience as an executive leader spearheading diverse programs in both public and non-profit settings. His background includes community and economic development; strategic and operations planning; creating community and business partnerships; fostering legislative relationships at local, state and national levels; developing organizational marketing and outreach efforts; as well as leading fund and resource development.
"I'm deeply honored to be chosen to serve as the president of this organization that has so successfully promoted the vitality of our economic environment and community," said Durkin. "I enthusiastically look forward to working with our members, a strong Board, outstanding staff and partners and colleagues across the region to build on the rich legacy of The Chamber."
Durkin most recently served as president for the Northeast Regional Cancer Institute. He previously held positions at the Lackawanna Heritage Valley Authority, as well as The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce where he served as vice president from 1988 to 1993.
In his new role, Durkin will be responsible for the overall management of The Chamber and all of its affiliates. As President and Chief Executive Officer, Durkin will lead The Chamber as the organization works to fulfill its mission of stimulating economic growth, promoting business prosperity, and nurturing educational opportunities, while serving the best interests of the people in our community.


text:
Sorry! The position you're looking for is no longer available. Check out other Development internships in Florida below.
Results 1 — 6
Sort By:
Development/Fundraising Intern
Ampersand School — Longwood, FL
Ampersand School We've designed the school we all wish we could have gone to when we were students. A playground for our own children, and yours. Check out (and help build) the school of your dreams. …
Application Deadline: Available Year-round
Web developer / graphic designer
zgf corp — Boca Raton, FL
Ecommerce company is looking for a designer/ developer to help with our current workload. We market natural health related products like natural high blood pressure supplements, children's shampoos, a…
Application Deadline: Available Year-round
Website Optimization Intern (part time)
FormeSante — North Miami Beach, FL
MOM PARTNERS ( BIOSMOSE.com and Formesante.com) is pleased to offer you an internship full or part time. Flexible. The company develops really quickly and now includes multiple Websites all managed by…
Application Deadline: Available Year-round
Office Intern
Mentoring Valuable Proteges — Miami Gardens, FL
Sports continue to be one of the engagement strategies that help separate youth from negative influences and behaviors. At Mentoring Valuable Protégés, participants are able to nurture their desire to…
Application Deadline: Available Year-round
Non-Profit Development Intern
Hands 4 Hope — Saint Petersburg, FL
Hands 4 Hope is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization focused on supplying educational programs and resources to help aid in areas of distress. We supply educational support and assistance to those in nee…
Application Deadline: 4/6/2015
Institute of Contemporary Art — Miami, FL
INSTITUTE OF CONTEMPORARY ART, MIAMI JOB SPECIFICATIONS Nature of Work: To assist in the staff with all museum membership and event duties as needed Direct Supervisors: Development/Membership Manager …
Application Deadline: Available Year-round


text:
Random Hockey Video of the Day, Holiday Edition: All These Teams Want for Christmas Is You
Please come back, hockey.READ MORE »
Please come back, hockey.READ MORE »
When Is a Penis Too Good to Break Up With?
18 Women on What Contractions Really Feel Like
The Best of Haruki Murakami's Advice Column
21 NYC Women Confess the Dumbest Thing They Spend Their Money On
Zayn Malik Gives His First Interview Post–One Direction, Breaks Even More Hearts
Good-bye to Pommes Frites, One of New York's Great Late-Night Institutions
Why Do Severed Goat Heads Keep Turning Up in Brooklyn?
The Walking Dead Spinoff Just Got a Really Stupid Name
The Life and Crimes of Robert Durst: A Timeline
Every Will Ferrell Movie, Ranked From Worst to Best


text:
New Delhi: After Delhi, AAP leader Arvind Kejriwal is eyeing Punjab where he will campaign for the next three days.
The former Delhi chief minister will reach Amritsar tonight and visit the Golden temple tomorrow from where he will undertake roadshows in the city, Taran Taran and Gurudaspur.
He is also expected to visit Khatkar Kalan, village of martyr Bhagat Singh and campaign in Ludhiana for candidate HS Phoolka. He is also expected to be back in Delhi by April 13 evening.
AAP has high hopes in Punjab and Haryana and the party`s decision to form a SIT to probe the 1984 anti-Sikh riots has gone well with the Sikh community.
Kejriwal will also leave for Varanasi on April 14 and will camp in the temple city from where he is taking on Narendra Modi.


text:
Creative ways to wear black blazer
I recently bought a deeply discounted wool gabardine black blazer that is beautiful and fits wonderfully. Unfortunately, the sale rack didn't hold any matching pieces so I have to get creative. I've found that not all blacks are alike so the prospects of putting together a suit is rather slim. Actually, I'm more of a creative, casual person so I need some alternatives. How would you put together an outfit using a very traditional looking black blazer? Thanks for your input!
Black goes with just about anything. Your blazer would be smashing with denim jeans  especially medium wash to dark wash jeans. I like black and royal blue. If you want to look sophisticated, pair your black blazer with other neutrals  camel , brown(examples: black blazer, black shirt, brown pants; black blazer, animal print shirt, brown pants ), navy, grey. I can feel people cringe with Navy, but navy and black looks good, particularly if it is a bold dark navy print with splashes of white. Then there are the timeless pairings  red/white/black; yellow/white/black. Bold colors with black (such as red, fuschia, yellow) need a third foil, like white or cream  IMHO. DonÂt wear orange and black. DonÂt try to match blacks  instead get some black/white(example: houndstooth) or grey/black (example: tweed, glen plaid) pants to make a suited looked.


text:
Due to bad weather, the Touch of Touch has been postponed. Please contact our Volunteer Coordinator, Leah McKean, for rescheduling, refunds, or general inquiries.
Touch of Chico postponed
11:00am, 9-29-2013
You must be signed in to post comments.
11:00am, 4-4-2015
5:30pm, 3-27-2015
Bahapki, Gravy Brain & Dog Named Blue!
4:00pm, 3-8-2015
11:00am, 3-6-2015


text:
Man arrested after motorcycle crash near Murphys
A 51-year-old Arnold man faces charges of driving under the influence after a motorcycle accident near Murphys.
According to the California Highway Patrol, Tyrus Kasravi was riding a 1999 Buell east on Highway 4 near Utica Powerhouse Road at 8:50 p.m. Saturday.
Because Kasravi was speeding, he missed a turn and the motorcycle went into the westbound lane and off the road, the CHP said.
The bike hit a rock embankment, throwing Kasravi.
He was wearing a motorcycle helmet and suffered moderate injuries. He was taken to Doctors Medical Center in Modesto, where he was arrested on DUI charges.
Editor's Choice Videos
Join the Discussion
The Modesto Bee is pleased to provide this opportunity to share information, experiences and observations about what's in the news. Some of the comments may be reprinted elsewhere on the site or in the newspaper. We encourage lively, open debate on the issues of the day, and ask that you refrain from profanity, hate speech, personal comments and remarks that are off point. Thank you for taking the time to offer your thoughts.


text:
Adjusting Ph organically - the DIY way
Obviously you can buy things to do this, but I just wanted to see what you guys use that might be a bit more organic in nature.
I personally use white vinegar and baking soda. My setup is usually slightly alkaline and I usually don't need to add very much vinegar.
Some will ask if it alters the taste, but since I mainly grow peppers and tomatoes, I cant detect and flavor changes. Also no taste changes in the basil or mustard
I'm using GH Flora Nova series usually, but more and more custom mixed stuff. Haven't had any issues with changes from anything other than nutrient absorption - that changes my pH and my ec rather rapidly. I have a bad setup for the size of plants I have so I have fresh nutrients on my tomatoes and peppers in the ebb/flow daily.. the dwc systems stay pretty stable with the pH and ec levels
I've found if you didn't have a problem it stays pretty stable. But if your trying to correct a problem there are lots of residual nutrients in the roots that change the pH again pretty fast. A couple points is nothing - I had a neglected pot I finally checked today that was sitting at 9.2. I fixed it and checked it a few hrs ago and its still right where I had it. I'll check in the morn. Dunno why but I thought I had it in water, flushing the system for a few days.. but oops... that wasn't water! Probably 2 week old nutrient solution!
I've tried vinegar before, and I have found it tends to break down quickly in a recirculating system, causing the ph to go right back up. I have used citric acid before with slightly better success.
What I don't understand is why you would need a ph up and ph down? My tap water is usually the best ph up. I've also heard it is bad to mix the two.
For one, the pH of anyone's water supply can/will fluctuate. Two, what would you do if you accidentally over adjusted?
Sure once you know your water supply, and the normal pH levels once you mix your nutrients in it, as well as how the adjusters you use affect it, you will be real good at guessing the exact amounts needed to adjust it. But you wont be perfect every time. Then what do you do? Wait a week or so to have it delivered because you didn't have any on hand?
When I said "once you mix your nutrients in it, as well as how the adjusters you use affect it, you will be real good at guessing the exact amounts needed to adjust it". I was referring to the amount of ph adjusters you'll need to bring the volume of nutrient solution to the desired level in the first try, and without adjusting it to far in either direction (and needing to re-correct it after retesting it). Thus the point of needing to have both pH up and pH down on hand, rather than just only getting one because you didn't feel you will ever need the other.
I used to test pH both before and after mixing the nutrients, but after doing that for a while I found that testing before wasn't really necessary for me. Even though the pH of the water supply does fluctuate. Once I add the nutrients to it, I barley need to adjust it. Then once I do, it remains stable for at least a week or two unless I need to add much water to replace the water the plants drink. If I need to add 25% or more water to replace it, I'll generally re-check the pH then. But after checking the pH every day, I got almost perfect at guessing if the pH was in range before I even tested it. So now I really only test it for the first couple of days (fresh nuts). Then only if I suspect a problem after that (and/or if the nutrient solution is about 2 weeks old).
The problem is the vinger and soda creates co2 in the root zone which stifles the roots. And please their nothing wrong with using urine as a fertilizer. Just take vitianims, wait a week and start using. If you look at the back of a box of MG you'll find the same things listed
I'm not sure if vinger and soda creates co2, but when mixed together they do create a gas. But again the key is when mixed together, not separately over days. The issue is their not stable pH adjusters.
And please their nothing wrong with using urine as a fertilizer.
Ya, all you need to do is pee in a bottle, then save it for your nutrients. Mix it 50-50 with plain water for your nutrient solution, and you'll have the best plants on earth. Nothing else needed. Just wiz on your plants.... It's a conspiracy, the nutrient manufactures are just re-selling pee to you at very inflated prices. I should know I sell pee to the nutrient manufactures, but I spend all my money in beer so I can pee enough to make enough money (they don't pay much). Don't buy nutrients, just buy beer, and pee on your own plants.
I can see your point homehydro. Untill one actually has true experience in hydroponics and can see the production, following practices that would not be excepted in the commerical hydroponic industry as a "good idea" so to speak might seem ok to them.
To keep it simple using a basic 3-part hydroponic fertilizer and a ph up and down, and a good cleaner. No need to add any strange things.
On the ph thing.
Well, like homehydro stated "The issue is their not stable pH adjusters."
I am sure there are many organic ph up/downs that you can get either at a hydro store or online.
For the record I use a hydro organic fertilizer called Botanicare pure blend pro grow for my soilless container garden so I am for organic.
Ya, I would always suggest for any new hydroponic grower to start using what is tested tried and true to work first. But beyond that I have herd the same type of "using urine as a fertilizer' claims from a lot of people (not just georgeiii). But I was also trying to make the point that without being given context, the statement's are vague. Thus leading to your observation of using a tried and true nutrient solution first, until you've got a feel for what your doing.
Theirs a lot more going on for the root systems (chemically) in hydroponic systems (organic or not), than just adding anything that seems to work in soil. Without context it means nothing. I was just trying to get people to think about the context part of the statement. That's why I went to the extreme with my statement. It's also why I clarified later. so anyone not knowing/seeing my point wont think I was serious and hopefully wonder why/what I really meant.
Also Ya, there are many organic pH adjusters sold by many hydro manufactures. For pH down using citrus acid works. In fact that's the stuff I use. I'm not sure what is in the pH up, but both are organic, and are made by Earth Juice (who makes lots of trusted organic products for hydroponics). Now with that said I don't know if there's a difference in pH product from what you put in the hydroponic systems, and what you put in your food. But I see so many times people try and use under the counter products for adjusting pH for various reasons (cheaper/ just in a bind etc.). They just never save a penny in the long run. And I am all about building your own systems, etc. but ph adjusters just aren't something to try and save a few cents on to me.


text:
- Europe »
- Czech Republic »
- Prague »
- Fajn radio
Oops… no streams currently available for Fajn radio.
Click here to visit the Station's website:
Fajn radio is a broadcast radio station from Prague, Czech Republic providing rock, pop and adult contemporary.
Prague - Czech Republic - Czech
Songs playing in Fajn radio
In other languages
See this page in French: Ecouter Fajn radio en ligne
See this page in German: Hören Fajn radio online
See this page in Portuguese: Reproduzir Fajn radio ao vivo
See this page in Spanish: Escuchar Fajn radio en vivo


text:
Money blog + Voluntary sector
The Salvation Army, Royal British Legion and Barnardo's say money received justifies it – but many are annoyed by the tactic
I'm clearing out my mother's house and would like to give her belongings to someone who needs them. But where to begin?
What to do about the constant, jaunty JustGiving emails? It's a modern minefield
Celebrities back clothing retailer and charity's bid to raise cash for a good cause
Protest highlights serious concern - and helps prompt over-60s who don't need that £200 to give it to those who do


text:
USS Yorktown South Pier Oyster Roast
Saturday, March 28 from 6:30-10PM
The Latest
New! Silver Sneakers Program for Senior Citizens
New Silver Sneakers Program at the Cannon Street YMCA Program starts May 1st…
Berkeley County
Come one, come all to our fundraiser Oyster Roast 3/28/15. Call (843) 761-9622...
The YMCA is not just a swim and gym
The YMCA is a community working together to ensure the development of our youth, the maintenance of our health and providing opportunities to strengthen and enrich the world around us. More about us »
Become a part of the community.
Your gift to the YMCA supports programs that enrich the local community.
Give back by volunteering your time.


text:
A little description about you host or guest. I love to experience new things and learn about other habits and cultures. This is the mail reason to subscribe for AirBNB, to travel more and to meet different people, opinions and experiences.
Would love to learn more about Latin America (and Spanish) , Asia and a whole bunch of other parts of our beautiful world. I am new at this platform, but I as a guest I will give you the apartment with a brief description about the area around here, good restaurants, cinema etc. If possible I would like to spend a cup of coffee afterwards to know your experiences.


text:
Is Attorney General Holder and the Justice Department ready to make a deal in providing Congress with documents concerning the botched gun-running operation that resulted in the murder of U.S. Border Patrol Agent Brian Terry?
There are reports that a meeting will take place soon to see if an agreement can be reached.
As you recall, members of Congress filed suit against Holder and the DOJ over Operation Fast & Furious, which put guns into the hands of Mexican drug cartels. We filed an amicus brief just last week in this case backing the lawsuit in an effort for Congress to get key documents that would get to the bottom of what happened.
On FOX News today, I told Bill Hemmer that it would be in the best interest of the Justice Department to settle this case - produce the documents to members of Congress - and get the truth out.
The fact is Brian Terry's family deserves answers. The American people deserve answers. And, Congress deserves the truth about what happened with Operation Fast & Furious. I don't have a crystal ball. But if I was representing the DOJ, I would try to cut a deal.
It's time to come clean. Produce the documents.
We've seen this movie before. With the Obama administration, a familiar pattern is emerging. Trusting his own wisdom, President Obama resists oversight, goes to legal war against leakers and whistleblowers (at least those who make it look bad), and launches or proposes military offensives against...
Like so many others , I find it impossible to believe Brian Williams simply "made a mistake." At the risk of indulging in armchair pop psychology, I'd say it's far more likely that a titanic ego collided with reality, and reality lost. In my own experience, there are few things more humbling than...
You know its bad for President Obama when the late night comedy shows start cutting through his Administration's mainstream media-memorizing spin and exposing his lawlessness. Conservatives aren't the only ones shouting from the rooftops about President Obama's reckless disregard for the...
I would say that I pity Chuck Hagel. After all, here was his mandate: Maintain America's strategic position while shrinking American military power and amplifying the Obama administration's desires for global disengagement. It turns out that the SECDEF could accomplish only two of those missions.


text:
OSI-Approved Open Source (15)
- GNU General Public License version 2.0 (8)
- BSD License (3)
- GNU Library or Lesser General Public License version 2.0 (2)
- Mozilla Public License 1.1 (2)
- Adaptive Public License (1)
- Apache License V2.0 (1)
- Apache Software License (1)
- Common Public License 1.0 (1)
- GNU General Public License version 3.0 (1)
- MIT License (1)
- NASA Open Source Agreement (1)
- W3C License (1)
- Other License (1)
- Public Domain (1)
- Linux (15)
- Windows (15)
- Grouping and Descriptive Categories (12)
- Modern (9)
- Mac (8)
Top Apps
- Audio & Video
- Business & Enterprise
- Communications
- Development
- Home & Education
- Games
- Graphics
- Science & Engineering
- Security & Utilities
- System Administration
A powerful, cross platform, SQL database system26,862 weekly downloads
X Local File Search
This intended to be a fast local network(ftp/smb) file indexer and searcher. It's daemon is written in C#, it will have a GUI client, WEB interface for integration into networks' sites and using PgSQL as backend2 weekly downloads
Network CallerID
This project intends to build a complete CallerID-function for home- or small buisniess environments. It depends on simple hardware which everyone can build. It will present the incomming call's number on every workstation on the network.1 weekly downloads
SAFMQ: Store and Forward Message Queue
SAFMQ: Store and Forward Message Queue, message oriented middleware. Uses include Assured Async Messaging, SOA, Delayed/Batch, and Cluster/Grid Computing. The SAFMQ server provides cross platform communication among C++, PHP, Java, and .NET clients.1 weekly downloads
Suroden MUD
Suroden is like a MUD, but more like interactive fiction which will suck you into our world. We are using an Object Oriented approach using C# to code it. A PHP web front end will be used for creating the world.1 weekly downloads
Biocentrica Voyager Antivirus
It moves by itself inside networks like virus infection & plagues, it is being written to solve computer virus problem drastically and responsibly. It is legal, free and open for public domain to improve W3 ICT Security.0 weekly downloads
Hero's Union: Basic ILS (Hubils)
Hero's Union: Basic Information Library System is a project that is in the early stages of development. This system will implement some of best features available through other ILS software as well as many new features. Team Members Wanted!0 weekly downloads
LInux REmote Printing Server. Whether for your Linux Home Server or a proffessional business, this is the perfect solution. With plugins for Windows and Linux, a Linux Server and a Web Interface, this is the solution to all of your network printing needs0 weekly downloads
Live monitor
Si vuole creare una piattaforma con la quale monitorare server sparsi sulla rete attraverso la rete, usando un sw daemon e vari tool con frontend web e un client gtk/win32.0 weekly downloads
A Medical Information System (MIS) Application Server based on Web Services and J2EE and administrative tools (Plugins for Eclipse,...)0 weekly downloads
Securty search engine
korea security project0 weekly downloads
Single Login project
The Single Login project is aimed at providing a easy to use single login solution for portal owners and others with a need for easy access to multi site logins. It will be aimed at being independant of OS or script language used on the site.0 weekly downloads
Tools for Liberty (LPTools)
This project contains myriad tools for running successful political campaigns. While designed in the US, it should be easily portable to other nations as well, assuming a basic knowledge of the target locale's regulations and infrastructure.0 weekly downloads
Unisono is a back-end to automate Virtual Hosting management tasks (http, ftp, dns, xen vm, uml, db) based on a LDAP representation of the infrastructure.0 weekly downloads
PHP5-based platform. Additional support for Java/C# is to be expected later on.0 weekly downloads


text:
It's a story of opposites: West and east, dark and light, soulless and full of love and life
A hidden home, and a pair of swingers in a secluded park
For about a decade now, Leslieville has been welcoming artsier, more interesting places to eat and shop
"People love the idea of living in a heritage building and being in a growing neighbourhood"
Outraged Torontonians banded together to descend on a cowboys and Indians party complete with war paint and faux headdresses
Click on the image to embiggen!
Coffee shops, community hangouts and condos — new living spaces coming to Queen East
Toronto Police Constable Tony Vella said there were three separate incidents, all between Feb. 11 and 14, in which dog owners took their dogs for walks in alleyways in the area. When the dogs returned home they went into seizures and eventually died
By Alex Newman There's lots of land in Toronto's downtown East waterfront, and it's got developers drooling. Three large parcels, in particular, are the focus of attention: the 62 acre East Bayfront, the 80-acre West Donlands and the sprawling 1,000-acre Port Lands. The terrain is unique, largely created by filling in Lake Ontario in the […]
A legal battle working its way through the Toronto courts may not have enough car-chase scenes to catch the attention of Hollywood. But the struggle pitting the city's largest film studios against one another could have dire consequences for the health of Toronto's film industry. Cinespace Studios, founded by Nick, Larry and Steve Mirkopoulos a […]


text:
Just wanted to say thank you. I was told by a friend (schoolteacher) how much they used your site and perhaps you would have the supplies we needed. You had everything necessary. Thanks again from a happy shopper and over 100 children what will be looking at their creation for time to come.
More Testimonials »
Clip Frame
Up to 28% Off
East Village Frames
From $9.97
Lifestyle Collage Frame
From $10.42
Original Float Frame
Solid Wood Float Frame
Up to 27% Off


text:
See our store section for gifts by different stores
See our top gift ideas section for most popular items.
Create your own personal gift registry. Register for any item, from any store, for any occasion. Find the gift registries of your family and friends.
Ever find the perfect gift idea for someone, but their birthday was months away? We make it easy to remember your gift ideas.
Provides timely email reminders for a birthday, anniversary, and other special occasions.
Get advice from friends and family on which gifts to buy.
Sterling Silver
Sterling Silver Guardian Angel Medal
Sterling Silver Praying Child Medal
Personalized Icon Gold-Plated Bar Necklace
Platinum Plated Girl's Crystal Birthstone Heart Necklace
Small Kitty Face Crystal Pendant with Pink Bow
Personalized Icon Sterling Silver Bar Necklace
Hot Dog Necklace
Multicolor Crystal Heart Necklace
Girl's Cute Kitten Personalized Name Necklace
Personalized Stamped Name Bar Pendant
Sterling Silver Name Circle Pendant with Swarovski Birthstones
Softball MVP Sterling Silver Charm Necklace
Sterling Silver Dove Necklace
Sterling Silver Medical Alert Children's Oval Engraved Necklace
Daughter's Heart Personalized Hand Stamped Necklace
Girl's Kitty Beaded Jewelry and Hair Accessories Set
Kitty Crystal Necklace and Earrings with Gold Bow Set
Kitty Crystal Necklace and Earrings Set
Kitty Crystal Pendant Necklace
Princess Pendant in Pink Crown Box
Flower Girl Purple Pearls Necklace Earrings & Bracelet Set
Bell of Christ Charm
Vintage Monogram Necklace
Colorful Couble Name Necklace


text:
Jonathan Edwards: A Guided Tour of His Life and Thought
Book by Stephen Nichols
Jonathan Edwards, a leader in the Great Awakening during the eighteenth century, still has much to teach the church. Evangelicals are rediscovering him through the efforts of several authors (John Gerstner, Iain Murray, Harry Stout, and others) and publishers (Banner … Learn MorePaperback $15.00 $12.00 Add to Cart
How to Enjoy Your Bible
Book by John Blanchard
This book is written out of two firmly held convictions. The first is that the Bible is the Word of God. There was a time when the meaning of that statement would have been absolutely clear and incapable of being … Learn MorePaperback $12.00 $9.60 Add to Cart
John Calvin: A Heart for Devotion, Doctrine, and Doxology
Book by Burk Parsons
In celebration of the five hundredth anniversary of John Calvin's birth (2009), Burk Parsons, editor of Tabletalk magazine and associate minister at St. Andrew's in Sanford, Fla., has brought together an impressive group of pastors and scholars to reconsider Calvin's life and … Learn MoreHardcover $19.00 $15.09 Add to Cart
Also available in two other formats
The Lightlings
Book by R.C. Sproul
In The Lightlings, Dr. R.C. Sproul weaves an allegorical tale that captures the essence of the biblical story of redemption in a manner that will fascinate and delight children. A race of tiny beings known as lightlings are a picture … Learn MoreHardcover $18.00 $14.40 Add to Cart
Also available in three other formats
Can I Know God's Will?
Book by R.C. Sproul
As human beings, we long to know that our lives will unfold in ways that we will find pleasant and rewarding. As Christians, we have a different focus—we want our lives to be pleasing to God. Thus, we ponder His … Learn MorePaperback $4.00 $3.20 Add to Cart
Also available in one other format
God's Undertaker: Has Science Buried God?
Book by John Lennox
Some commentators claim that science has finally killed the concept of God by virtue of its own all-encompassing explanations of reality. Atheism, they say, is the only intellectually tenable position, and any attempt to reintroduce God is likely to impede … Learn MorePaperback $15.00 $12.00 Add to Cart
The Sermon on the Mount
Book by Sinclair Ferguson
The Sermon on the Mount is probably the best known section of the entire Bible. Yet it is also one of the least understood parts of the teaching of Jesus Christ. 'It is not a sermon about an ideal life … Learn MorePaperback - out of stock $8.00 $6.40 Backorder
Reformation Sketches
Book by W. Robert Godfrey
The sketches in this book strive to show that the Reformation remains vitally important for Christians today. Reformers and preachers of the sixteenth century were the best educated, most godly, and most faithful group of leaders the church has ever … Learn MorePaperback $13.00 $10.40 Add to Cart
When You Rise Up
Book by R.C. Sproul Jr.
When it comes to education, R.C. Sproul Jr. doesn't hesitate in dealing with the real issues. Who should teach our children? What should they be taught? What teaching methods should be employed? In this powerful primer on child training, R.C. cuts … Learn MorePaperback $10.00 $8.00 Add to Cart
Reformation Heroes
Book by Various Authors
The Reformation did not happen instantaneously; it was something God patiently arranged over a number of years. As you read this book, you will learn how the Lord used some people to plant the seeds of church reform long before … Learn MoreHardcover $25.00 $20.00 Add to Cart
Truths We Confess: A Layman's Guide to the Westminster Confession of Faith (Volume 1)
Book by R.C. Sproul
In his three-volume exposition of the Westminster Confession of Faith, R.C. Sproul writes with both insight into current issues and clarity for lay readers. This first volume (of three), covering chapters 1–8 of the confession, explains what we need to … Learn MoreHardcover $22.00 $17.60 Add to Cart
Atheism Remix: A Christian Confronts the New Atheists
Book by Albert Mohler
A leading Christian intellectual explores the newest strain of atheism, its foremost thinkers, the cultural conditions that have bred it, and how Christians should respond. Something has changed in American culture. What for years was a little-regarded belief system—atheism—has now … Learn MoreHardcover $16.00 $12.80 Add to Cart
Above All Earthly Pow'rs: Christ in a Postmodern World
Book by David Wells
In our postmodern world, every view has a place at the table but none has the final say. How should the church confess Christ in today's cultural context? Above All Earthly Pow'rs, the fourth and final volume of the series … Learn MorePaperback $18.00 $14.40 Add to Cart


text:
Just show up to TC with only this and your credentials like a boss. After every shot, say "bangbang!" Be selective though, only 27 shots available.
I was on a trip at the beach once and had one of these bad boys. I left it in the house while I went out for a little while. Hadn't taken any pictures yet. My friend at the house saw it and used all the pictures on himself naked


text:
I'm excited about the Land's End FeelGood Campaign for several reasons. First, I love the idea of hard-working volunteer knitters turning 5,000 pounds of yarn into blankets for those in need. Second, I'm dying to learn how to crochet and I think a video tutorial might be my golden ticket. And last, I love looking at my computer screen and seeing the friendly face of Brett Bara — our resident sewing queen and author of the D*S column Sewing 101 — smiling back at me.
Brett has made three great videos for the campaign, including a couple tutorials on knitting and crochet. They are filmed at the amazing Purl Soho in NYC. I've included one below to whet your appetite; you can view all of them here. You can also catch Brett on the CBS Early Show today between 7am and 9am. I can't wait to score some crochet hooks and get to it! — Kate
I'm looking forward to the tutorial, but I can't but wonder if feel-good campaigns aren't exactly that — projects that make the contributors feel good. Somehow I think that poor people would be better off with cash contributions to honest charitable and government aid organizations.
i understand your point about feel-good campaigns, to a degree. but i think there's a disconnect between that idea and thinking that something like this would be less helpful. are homeless or in-need people in need of monetary donations? absolutely. but would they also be in need of something like blankets if they're on the street? definitely. i think both are helpful. and by giving someone a blanket you're not automatically NOT giving them money. i find it odd when people look at a charitable act and think it somehow means people aren't also doing other things to help people in need. i've learned first hand through projects at d*s that people are far, far more likely to donate their time or something like this, that lets them feel more involved, than a cash donation. so if they're able to get people to stop and think about doing something for other people, and then actually do it, i think it's definitely good for people in need.
the bottom line is i think people in need are in need of many things: money, support, basic supplies, clothing, blankets, etc. and i don't think giving one over the other is anything less than helpful.
oh YAY!! a couple of days ago I typed "crochet" in the search box and nothing spectacular came up. This definitely makes my day, and the fact that it promotes a good cause makes the post even more wonderful.
My 2 cents on the donation issue… we can all donate our time, talent and/or treasure to others. Doing one most certainly does not negate the other and as Grace said, something like the project described above makes people feel more connected and prompts them to want to help in other ways.
I've found a few good tutorials on YouTube for crocheting but you really have to search for them! This is awesome! Thanks!
Thanks so much for this post. As a crocheter, I love to hear about how fingers and yarn are coming together do good in the world!
I understand Reader's doubts about the impact of a campaign like this, but I am a firm believer that one can use his/her craft to improve the quality of life for others. Whether one donates actual goods (handmade blankets, scarves, etc.) or a portion of proceeds from sales, at least one step (no matter how small) is being made to better the world. A portion of the sales from my own etsy shop is donated to a clinic & community center for toxic waste victims in the Philippines. Whereas the warm accessories I make wouldn't be very useful in their tropical environment, the little money I'm able to donate supports much-needed services for a community I care about.
In short, there are so many ways to make positive change – cash donations are important, but I'm also a fan of more creative contributions. Thanks, again!
I'm also excited about the FeelGood Campaign. I've been crocheting for years and people love to ask what I am making. Working in public (or even just in front of friends) is a great opportunity to spread the word about a cause without being intrusive. Not all of the people who ask about my work are crafters themselves and after talking about the program they may want to help.
I agree with Marien. Donating time and money are not mutually exlusive. Quite the opposite. It takes countless hours to make a blanket, time that I will spend thinking about the recipient. That's a lot of opportunity to be inspired to do more!
I thought this was a great idea. However, when I called one of the organizations about participating, they could not provide any info. Later I received an e-mail that informed me that the guilds have been given first dibs on this project and to contact Lands End. I am not a member of any of the crochet or knitting guilds but I can knit and crochet.
Brett, this sounded like a wonderful opportunity. Sadly, I have decided not to participate. I hope others have better luck.
i'm going to ask brett about this- it doesn't make sense to me that they'd invite people to participate and then limit it to guilt members. i'm going to check and update on this…something sounds off about that.
hi monique!
whew, as i suspected, i think someone gave you the wrong info about this, or perhaps explained it incorrectly. this is from brett:
"The program is open to everyone. They've tried to make it as "local" as possible by working with local guilds, so that when people want to get involved they can physically pick up the free yarn someplace local to them. You can contact one of the three organizations on landsend.com/feelgood, who should be able to help you find the closest free yarn pick up spot. However, you don't have to be a member of a guild to pick it up."
Also, Brett explained that everyone is welcome to use their own yarn to make squares to submit. This guild issue is purely about providing FREE yarn to people who don't have or want to use their own.
Grace :)
Awesome on 3 fronts~
A) I've wanted to learn to crochet for eons, so I think is my Golden Ticket also!
B) Crocheting blankets for needy folks? Wonderful~
C) Brett has really cute hair. Hehe.
Thanks again for a great post!
Grace, thanks so much for the follow up! I really appreciate it.
This video is excellent. I was looking for tutorials and I can understan.. I guess ha ha ha
She goes WAY to fast for trying to teach someone something. Luckily you can pause and rewind the video if needed, but I sure wish someone would make a really great slow paced tutorial.
We are a bunch of volunteers and starting a brand new scheme in
our community. Your website offered us with valuable information to work on.
You've done a formidable activity and our whole group shall be thankful to you.


text:
Marla Perdue, 2006 accounting alum, was recently named Accounting Manager, Interim Chief Financial Officer at Horne International. Perdue joined Horne International in July 2011 with prior experiences in financial reporting, employee benefit plans, internal control systems, and full scope accounting for small to medium size businesses. In addition, Perdue has a background in commercial, manufacturing, […]
Tag Archives: Marla Perdue
Accounting Graduate on the Move
April 2, 2012
- RCS Optics: The University's Distinguished Speaker Series is a...
- RCS Optics: Congratulations Ms. Perdue on your recent promotio...
- RCS Optics: Kudos to Mr Ring. Sharing his passions with studen...
- Chip Hoagland: Dr Johnston was the leader of a great Finance depa...
- Tell Your Phil Buchanan Story March 12, 2013
- Tell Your Bob Johnston Story October 21, 2013
- Brown & Brown Distinguished Speaker Series presents Teresa Carlson, VP Global Public Sector, Amazon Web Services October 2, 2014
- Accounting Graduate on the Move April 2, 2012
- Jason Howell | An Outstanding Alumnus March 31, 2015
- MBA Alum Honored with Mason Service Award March 30, 2015
- The Second Annual Martin Klaiber Charitable Golf Tournament March 26, 2015
- Brown & Brown Speaker Series ft. Kellie Goldstein March 19, 2015
2013 Accounting alumna Alumni Alumni Association alumnus Beta Alpha Psi Brown & Brown Brown & Brown Distinguished Speaker Series Buchanan Business Alumni Celebration CFO Chief Financial Officer consulting DC Dean's Advisory Council Dean's Council distinguished speaker dr. buchanan Dr. Phil Buchanan Dr. Phillip Buchanan Dr. Phillip G. Buchanan faculty Faculty Fellowship fellowship finance financial services graduates on the move honor Johnson and Strachan legacy loyalty marketing Mason Business Alumni MBA Networking qinetiq Scholarship social media speaker series spotlight Theta Alpha Chapter Virginia washington post Women in Business


text:
HOLIDAYS OR HOLY DAYS? Should Christians keep the holiday? By Pastor Stephen Hower Everything is permissible – but not everything is beneficial. Everything is permissible – but not everything is constructive. 1 Corinthians 10:23 Jay Leno began one October 31st monologue by telling the audience how frustrated he was with the way Americans celebrate Halloween. "It has become so secular," he lamented tongue-in-cheek. "I'll bet none of you even worship Satan today! The religious significance is lost! All Halloween means anymore is candy, costumes, and parties! It just isn't like it used to be." Jay's comments were humorous because they parodied what many Christians say about the celebration of religious holidays. The significance of Christ's birth is lost on Santa Claus, the importance of Jesus' resurrection competes with a bunny who hides painted eggs, and the Reformation has been displaced by a night of trick-or-treat. For Lutheran Christians, the holidays begin early. While the rest of Christendom begins the season at Thanksgiving, we kick things off with the celebration of Reformation Day on October 31. All Hallows' Eve, as it was called in Martin Luther's day, was like Christmas Eve has become for Americans. Everyone went to church. Believing that the saints in heaven could make intercession for the living, they held in high regard a night designated to honor all saints. Those who worshiped on All Hallows' Eve had every reason to believe their prayers would receive special attention. Because the night promised a big crowd, Luther chose October 31st to post on the castle doors at Wittenburg his ninety-five reasons for opposing indulgences and other church abuses. Today, few Lutheran churches celebrate Reformation Day with an October 31 st evening service. Older and wiser pastors still celebrate the occasion but prefer to hold the service the Sunday before the historic date. They reason that the best celebrations are services that actually have participants in the pews. So what's the solution? Has the world taken over? Should we run out into the wilderness and cry like Elijah, "I have had enough, Lord….Take my life; I am no better than my ancestors…I have been very zealous for the Lord God Almighty. The Israelites have rejected Your covenant, broken down Your altars, and put Your prophets to death with the sword. I am the only one left!" (1 Kings 19:4,10) Asking God to put us out of our misery is not the answer. The encroachment of the world is no threat to the faith of the true believer. The world has nothing to offer equivalent to God's gifts at Christmas, Easter, and the Reformation. Faithful Christians shouldn't feel compelled to choose between the two. By definition, they are not the same. One celebration is spiritual, and the other is not. As Christians, we should welcome the world's desire to join in the observance and use it as a teaching opportunity, inviting the unchurched to discover the real meaning of the season. Christians, under certain conditions, can likewise join in celebrating our nation's traditions without guilt or sin. The apostle Paul lived at a time when false gods and false teachers were more plentiful than Christians. You can imagine the questions he had to answer on the subject of compromise. "As a Christian can I participate in anything that might associate me with false gods even though I don't believe in them? How do we handle it when our husbands want to celebrate the local customs but we aren't sure we should? What do we tell our children?" During Paul's day, some Christians were purchasing and eating meat that had been offered to idols. Other Christians objected, arguing that Christians who purchased meat offered to idols were participating in pagan worship and giving a false witness. Those buying the sacrifices thought such a view was ridiculous. They didn't believe in false gods and the other Christians knew it. They were only buying the meat because it was a good deal. To them, meat was meat. Paul was asked to decide who was right and who was wrong. Paul gave three answers to this question. First and foremost he affirmed, Christians are free. "Food is just food," Paul said. "It does not bring us near to God; we are no worse if we do not eat, and no better if we do" (1 Corinthians 8:8, paraphrase). In effect, Paul said, there is only one true God. Since there are no other gods, except those made up by the minds of people, faithful Christians can't be accused of idolatry because they buy meat that pagans believe is sacred. As long as Christians didn't join in idol worship they were free to purchase and cook the meat the pagans offered for sale after their sacrifice. This was not a simple "yes" or "no" situation, however, and Paul had more to say. Although Christians are free, if some of them believed that by buying and eating the meat they would be participating in evil, then it would be wrong and they should refrain. It would not only be a bad idea for them to act against their conscience, it would be a sin. "But the man who has doubts," Paul said, "is condemned if he eats, because his eating is not from faith; and everything that does not come from faith is sin" (Romans 14:23). In this situation two different Christians could participate in the same activity; one would be innocent and the other would be sinning. Paul taught if a Christian believes something is wrong (even if it's not) and he participates against his conscience, he is sinning. Finally, Paul said Christians should be conscious of how the exercise of their Gospel freedom might affect others who would observe their behavior. Nonbelievers who see Christians buying and eating meat offered to idols might conclude that Christians are hypocrites, lacking spiritual integrity. Paul said others who observe Christians buying the meat might consider their behavior an endorsement of idolatry. Through misunderstanding, a nonbeliever who saw a Christian buy and eat the meat might be encouraged to join in false worship. It isn't enough for Christians to be right, they should also be concerned about how others might interpret their behavior. If someone would be led to sin because he misunderstood the behavior of a Christian, Paul said Christians should voluntarily refrain from exercising their freedom. Notice that Paul's concern is about weak and new Christians. This is not a situation where long-time Christians were offended by the exercise of Christian freedom causing Paul to urge restraint. When it came to Christians who should know better, Paul had an entirely different approach, challenging them to grow up and accept the truth. (1 Corinthians 3:1-4 and Hebrews 6:1-3) So should Christians celebrate holidays or only Holy Days? In addition to worship during Advent, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day, can the faithful allow their children to sit on Santa's lap and leave a carrot for Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer? Can Christians celebrate the Reformation on Sunday and take their children out trick-or-treating on October 31? The more things change, the more they remain the same. As in Paul's day, there are at least three answers to these questions. First, Christians live under the freedom of the Gospel. They can participate as long as their actions remain innocent and are done for the pure fun and happiness associated with any secular tradition. To be sure, Christians acknowledge the reality of Satan and should never participate in any pagan rites or activities associated with Halloween. Paul told the Corinthians they could eat the meat but avoid the idolatry. Today he would advise, "Christians can eat the candy if they avoid satanic rituals." Satan is not just a fairy tale made up to scare little children. According to the Bible, he is a fallen angel dedicated to the destruction of Christians (Revelations 12:7-12). He lurks in the shadows, waiting for his chance to entice and then entraps Christians through seemingly innocent occult activities like palm reading, fortune telling, Ouija boards, and seances. There is a big difference between trick-or-treating and dabbling in satanic activity. On the other hand, Christians who believe their participation in these secular activities is a compromise of their Christian faith should avoid them. Paul would state it even more strongly. To violate one's conscience and participate in an activity that a Christian believes to be sinful is sinful for that Christian. If Christian parents believe that the world of trick- or-treat, the Easter bunny, and Santa Claus is a compromise of their Christian faith, they must refrain. Finally, Christians should be concerned about how others might interpret their participation, especially non-Christians and Christians of weak faith. Will others view their participation as hypocritical? Will nonbelievers be drawn into demonic activity because of a Christian's participation in the harmless elements of the holiday? Even though Christians may know certain aspects of these celebrations are innocent, will others who are less knowledgeable be able to make the same distinction and understand a Christian's limit participation? No doubt many Halloween customs have idolatrous origins, but as Jay Leno observed, most people today care only about the costumes, the candy, and the parties. In most American homes Halloween is a fun night for kids to dress up and ask for candy, nothing more. Santa Claus and the eggs of Easter also have historic origins lost and forgotten over time. Christian children who participate in the secular customs associated with Christmas and Easter should be taught the significance of their ancient Christian history. Because these holiday customs have become as much a part of America as eating turkey at Thanksgiving and hanging lights on evergreens at Christmas, Christian participation in most secular traditions has little or no potential to lead others into false worship. But, as Paul taught, it remains an individual decision that may be right for some and wrong for others. This is a case where belief dictates practice – practice that may or may not be contrary to popular belief. Each Christian family will have to decide their own level of participation based on God's Word and their understanding of the event. The Scripture references regarding Paul's advice to the first century Christians are from Romans 14:13-23, 1 Corinthians 8 and 10:23- 33. As Paul said, "Everything is permissible" – but not everything is beneficial. "Everything is permissible" – but not everything is constructive. Nobody should seek his own good, but the good of others. (1 Corinthians 10:23-24) So what are those things that are beneficial, constructive, and permissible? In a different letter Paul offered these suggestions: "Whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable – if anything is excellent or praiseworthy – think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me – put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you" (Philippians 4:8-9).
Pages to are hidden for
"halloween"Please download to view full document