text:
Death and Homosexuality: The Unrecognized Genocides
Tom Henheffer
St. Thomas University
7 April 2009
There have been four distinct periods of crime committed against homosexuals in the past century. Homosexuals were victims of genocide during the holocaust. After this, they became victims of what some may call a "psychological genocide," where the western medical world tried to wipe out their lifestyle. Currently, homosexuals are targeted for death and life imprisonment in over a dozen countries. In the future, some scholars fear that in utero testing, combined with research in the human genome project, and discrimination, will lead to the total destruction of homosexuality in some areas. Genocide has been a near constant for homosexuals in the 20th century, and it shows no signs of ending, but the international community has failed to recognize the plight of gay men and women. Homosexuals have no document in international law protecting them from discrimination, and sexual groups are conspicuously left out of the genocide convention. For justice to be served, the genocide convention must be modified, but it must be done so effectively, without becoming overbroad. The psychological genocide provides a good test for overbroadness.
This modification will be very difficult, it will have to be the end result of a long process of human rights advocacy and new human rights documents; many attitudes will have to be changed in the world before this can happen. But the convention must be modified so the genocide of Nazi Germany can be recognized, the criminality of homosexuality on pain of death or life imprisonment cam be eliminated, and human rights can become prepared to handle the future consequences of genetic research.
Homosexuality has been a part of human society since before recorded history. The first evidence of it in human culture comes from cave paintings and sexual toys from 12,000 BC. In western culture, homosexuality has always been synonymous with Greek culture. In 620 BCE Sappho was born (Stuart 5). This female poet, from the island of Lesbos, is believed to have been the first female writer to express desire for the same sex. The term lesbian also comes from the island on which she lived. Socrates, born in 470 BCE, was one of the world's most influential philosophers, and he was known to be bisexual (5). The warrior Spartan culture also encouraged sexual relationships among men. Even Leonardo da Vinci (6) and Oscar Wilde (Stonewall 1) were both tried and persecuted for homosexuality.
It has only been in more recent times that homosexuals began to undergo systematic and government sanctioned discrimination. As Doris Bergen states in War and Genocide, "in the ancient world certain types of intimacy between people of the same sex did not carry any stigma or preclude sexual relations with members of the opposite sex," (22). 1290 saw the "first mention in English common law of a punishment for homosexuality," (Stonewall 1). Ten years later there was a "treatise in England prescribed that sodomites should be burned alive" (1). However, the term homosexual was not coined until 1869 in Germany (1). This discrimination and punishment came to a head in Nazi Germany.
Germany was not a particularly tolerant place before WWII. Homosexuality was outlawed in 1871, and remained so until 1970 (22). But after WWI Germany developed a vibrant, and some might say outspoken, gay culture (Bergen 23). It had a large homosexual club scene and was host to the Institute for Sexual Research, run by the homosexual gay rights activist Magnus Hirschfeld (23). The publicity and openness surrounding the gay scene in Germany may have been part of its downfall. As Bergen says, "for others it seemed to represent the decadence of a society that had abandoned its traditional values," (23). This meant that homosexuals could be easily victimized, and that they would have no friends when the Nazis came to power.
Hitler himself seemed to have few problems with gay men before the war. His long-time, right-hand man, Ernst Rohm, was openly gay. He was the head of the 2.5 million strong SA (70-71). It was not until the morality of Rohm's sexual preferences could be expediently used against him that Hitler chose to begin a campaign of hatred against homosexuals. It was a familiar pattern Hitler used, building support for his cause by inciting hatred against marginalized groups (23).
The Nazi persecution of homosexuals started suddenly and escalated rapidly. With the overt and vibrant gay scene homosexuals were an easy target. Bergen says, "many Germans regarded homosexuality as deviant and decadent and urged their government to crack down," (57). Thanks to the law of 1871, homosexuals were also criminals, and the Nazi's considered gay public officials to be easily corruptible targets for blackmail (57). Bergen says that Nazis, "struck in dramatic, decisive ways, but they always tested the public response to each move before proceeding further," (57). This was a litmus test for Hitler; he could start his campaign of hate by attacking the most easily marginalized group in Germany. Then it would be easy to escalate and attack other groups, Roma, Jews, etc. In this way, the persecution of homosexuals was instrumental in bringing about the preconditions for the holocaust and World War II.
The raids started in 1933. Nazis closed down gay clubs and arrested those inside, sending them to the concentration camp at Dachau (66). Students then destroyed Magnus Hirschfeld's Institute for Sexual Research. As Bergen puts it, "the German public was indifferent or cheered such offensives," (58). Hitler saw his people did not care, and he could continue with his plan.
The Night of Long Knives came in June of 1934 (70). Hitler used it to remove Rohm, as he was afraid Rohm was gaining too much power. Many high ranking Nazi officials were murdered, anywhere from 150 to thousands. It was called "a cleanup of the movement, a necessary measure against decadence and perversion," (71). Hitler got a telegram from President Hindenburg congratulating him, his military leaders supported the move, the German people did not care and the German government even made the actions retroactively legal (71). Similar tactics were later used to oust Frieherr Von Fritsch, the head of the German army, in 1936 (80). All of this was able to happen because of the culture of discrimination in Germany; the murders were wrapped in the idea of restoring morality, of removing homosexuals, the decadent and deviant. Gays had no place in the Third Reich; they refused to do their duty and reproduce. This is of course extremely ironic. If homosexuals did not reproduce, they could not possibly be a threat to future generations. But that did not matter to the Nazis.
As war continued, more homosexuals were put into concentration camps. Nazis called them antisocial parasites and enemies of the state (US Holocaust Memorial, Denunciations). They relied on denunciations, and then used torture to force victims to denounce others (US Holocaust Memorial, Denunciations). The camps were difficult and often deadly for everyone interred, but they had especially brutal conditions for homosexual men. Marked with pink triangles (Bergen 189), gay men were marginalized even by their fellow inmates. There was a hierarchy in concentration camps; the bottom was reserved for Homosexuals, Jews and Gypsies. Gays were isolated and tormented. They received especially harsh treatment from homophobic prisoners Nazis put in charge of them (189). They "suffered severely from torture, beating, and medical experimentation," (192). And their situation would only get worse. [1]
Before the war, gay men were generally put in prisons under definite sentences. At the wars beginning, their sentences were expanded and they were moved to camps, at first for re-education, and later for labour and death. Unlike most other prisoners, gay men were sometimes able to leave some camps. They had the option of castration and reassignment to heavy labour or front-line duty (192). In one camp they would be released to labour duties if they renounced their sexuality and managed to "perform," with a prostitute (192). But this did not change their status as victims of genocide, this seemingly preferable treatment was a ruse, it only changed the method the Nazis would use to destroy gays.
In 1942, there was a new, specific policy for dealing with homosexuals. It was called, "extermination through work," (US Holocaust Memorial, Persecution and the War) and was directly issued by Heinrich Himmler, head of the Nazi SS. Although not the same method as the gas-chambers, this campaign had the same goal of eradication. It demonstrates a clear intent by the Nazis to wipe out homosexuals in Germany and its occupied territories.
In all 50,000 men were arrested for "charges related to homosexuality" (Bergen 191) during the Nazi regime. During the war approximately 5-15,000 were put in camps (US Holocaust Memorial, Protective Custody). About 5-7000 died during the war, probably half of them in concentration camps (Bergen 192). Although these numbers are low, it represents one of the highest per-capita death rates of prisoners in WWII at an estimated 60 per cent (192). Political prisoners suffered only 41 percent losses, Jehovah's witnesses 35 percent, (192). Overall in Europe, 67 percent of Jews were murdered.
Unfortunately for homosexuals, their situation after the war frequently went unimproved. Prejudices against gays were still rampant in many countries. Homosexuality remained illegal in Germany until the 1960s (193). Bergen says, "illegality and social stigma account for the silence that shrouded the treatment of gay men in Nazi Germany until the 1970s and 1980s," (193). As of 1997, homosexuals had still not received an official apology from the German government (Benetto). It is incredible to think that a country so obsessed with not reliving the mistakes of its past could, for decades, deny the victimization of an entire group of people during WWII. Even worse than this, many gay men were liberated from concentration camps, then tried and sentenced again by occupiers, and thrown into other prison camps.
It is easy to analyze the human rights situation of homosexuals in Nazi prison camps; there were no rights. Basically every tenant of every human rights convention and declaration was violated by the Nazis. The human dignity of those men and woman, dignity being the source of all rights, was as close to being nullified as possible. They had no freedoms or liberties, no freedom of thought, speech or assembly, no security of the person, no freedom of religion; they were as dehumanized as any people have ever been. The only source of dignity these prisoners had was from the fact that they were human beings. Their rights were clearly violated, and a horrible crime was committed against them. But the question remains, did homosexuals undergo genocide during WWII?
The United Nations Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide (herein referred to as the genocide convention) defines genocide as, "any of the following acts committed with intent to destroy, in whole or in part, a national, ethnical, racial or religious group, as such," (Article II). These acts are,
(a) Killing members of the group;
(b) Causing serious bodily or mental harm to members of the group;
(c) Deliberately inflicting on the group conditions of life calculated to bring about its physical destruction in whole or in part;
(d) Imposing measures intended to prevent births within the group;
(e) Forcibly transferring children of the group to another group (Article II)
The order from Heinrich Himmler that homosexuals were to be exterminated through work clearly shows and intent to destroy on behalf of the Nazi government. This meets the first requirement of the genocide convention. Homosexual men were killed, caused serious bodily and mental harm, and they were placed in situation calculated to destroy them, especially when they were sent to labour camps. This easily meets three of the 5 conditions for genocide in article II. So it seems that the case for calling this a genocide is very clear cut. However, in order to be a victim of genocide, the genocide convention says that one must be a member of a targeted "national, ethnical, racial or religious group" (Article II). Sexual groups are not included. This means that the treatment of homosexuals during the holocaust is not recognized as such under international law. But what happened to homosexuals was genocide. The lack of recognition in international law is arbitrary, unjust and most likely a product of the prejudice against gays that still existed when the genocide convention was written (and which still exists in many places of the world today). The genocide convention is lacking and must be reformed so that this genocide is recognized, so that ongoing genocides can be stopped, and so possible future genocides can be prevented. However, this change must be done extremely carefully. In order for the genocide convention to remain effective, it cannot be overbroad. The aim of this essay is to further outline the position of homosexuals as victims of genocide, and to provide context and recommendations for creating effective human rights protections.
As evidenced above, homosexuality was not considered amoral, criminal or a disease until fairly recently in western culture. Gender identities were not always so rigid, but once they became stringent homosexuals were in for a world of trouble. After the common outlawing of homosexuality in western society, and after the genocide against homosexuals during WWII, came the psychological war on gays. This started when the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM), was published in 1952. Until the DSM was modified in 1973,
homosexuality was a certified psychological disorder by virtue of the fact that it was registered as such in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Psychiatric Disorders (DSM), the primary diagnostic manual for the American Psychological Association and the American Psychiatric
Association. (Rixecker 115)
As a disorder, psychologists treated homosexuality like cancer, something in need of a cure. Non-heterosexual behavior was considered to be an affliction that people could suffer from (Rixecker 114). The disease had to be cured, so people could again "lead a normal, useful life" (Rixecker 115). There was an argument over how to treat homosexuality; Scientists were not sure if homosexuality was due to, "genetic mutation- or poor environmental conditions-e.g. psychological disorders brought on due to a poor childhood" (Rixecker 115). This led to many different forms of treatment under the blanket label of "conversion therapy" (Rixecker 115. Treatment methods included, "masturbatory reconditioning and aversion therapy. … social skills training, cognitive restructuring, hypnosis, (and) abstinence training" (Cramer 95). Some treatments went so far as to use, "electroconvulsive therapy, surgical interventions (e.g., lobotomy, castration, ovary removal), and hormonal therapy (e.g., steroids, androgens…" (Cramer 95). Today, many of the less invasive techniques are still used, and the frequency of religious techniques (like prayer and threats of damnation) has greatly increased (Cramer 95). Unfortunately, there are no clear numbers on the amount of conversion therapies performed at any time in history (Cramer 95).
The most extreme forms of conversion therapy are very obviously harmful, and sometimes in a physical as well as mental way. However, less extreme forms are still known to cause harm. Firstly, they are almost never successful, instead they just "decrease the overall sexual arousal of participants" (Cramer 101). They are also known to increase shame, conflict, fearfulness and vulnerability to conformity. More severe (but still very common) side-effects include, "long-term sexual dysfunction, lowered self-esteem, loss of family and religiosity, and elevated depression and anxiety" (Cramer 101).
As previously mentioned, homosexuality is no longer categorized as a disease in the DSM. The American Psychological Association (APA) and the American Psychiatric Association are generally both opposed to conversion therapy (Cramer 94). However, conversion therapy still continues, and has not been specifically outlawed by the APA, thanks to lobbying from some pro-conversion therapy members (Rixecker 116). Many doctors still believe in conversion therapy and are constantly lobbying the APA to loosen its guidelines toward the practice. The strongest lobbyist for the re-mainstreaming of conversion therapy is the National Association for Research and Therapy of Homosexuality (NARTH). The organization's goals and ideas are not based on fact or justice, but it is still a powerful force. As Rixecker says, "NARTH was instrumental in challenging the American Psychological Association's recent attempts at imposing a professional sanction on those who perform conversion therapies" (116).
The conversion therapy of the 50s through to today is not an isolated incident. It reveals a culture of discrimination against homosexuals that has led to stigma and violence. During that time psychologists attempted to eradicate homosexuality. Like annihilating cancer, homosexuality was a blight that doctors tried to erase. In a culture like this, the rights of gay men and women were often violated. The right to security of the person under article 3 of the UDHR is violated by the harm caused by conversion therapy. Some forms of CT, such as aversion therapy, which often leads to sexual dysfunction, or electroshock, or removal of parts of the body, can be easily labeled as cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment under article 4. The attempt to change sexual orientation is an encroachment on the freedom of thought under article 18. Article 7 is violated by the clear discrimination against homosexuals evident in the DSM's definition of homosexuality as a disease, and article 8 is violated because no effective remedy for these crimes has ever been given to homosexuals. Other rights are also violated under the UDHR and other international human rights treaties, but they will not be discussed for the sake of brevity.
It is clear that CT and the culture around it led to many violations of the rights of homosexuals. But the real question is whether or not this psychological attempt to eradicate homosexuality can be called genocide. The answer is no. As a group, there was no "intent to destroy, in whole or in part" (Genocide Convention Article II) homosexuals. The target was homosexuality itself. During WWII Nazis tried to destroy Jews, not just Judaism, and homosexuals, not just homosexuality. Also, none of the five conditions of the genocide convention were met by the "psychological genocide". The third condition is, "deliberately inflicting on the group conditions of life calculated to bring about its physical destruction in whole or in part" (Article II). The APA did try to bring about the destruction of the condition of homosexuality, but again, not homosexuals themselves. As such, defining this era in western medicine as genocidal goes too far. It is not true to the idea of the genocide convention. Modifying the convention to include this incident would certainly lead to over broadness and a sharp decrease in effectiveness. But research into the psychological non-genocide is still useful, as it can be used as a test to prevent over broadness when modifying the genocide convention. It proves that there is no reason to modify the five acts in article II.
Behind the idea of homosexuality as a disease is the concept that it is somehow immoral, decadent, or abnormal. This concept has led many countries to criminalize sodomy and lock up "practicing" homosexuals. Same sex unions are legal in only five countries in the world, sodomy is illegal in 70 (Amnesty International love, Hate and the Law). This is a problem inherent throughout the world; sodomy was illegal in many US states until the laws were repealed by the Supreme Court in the 2003 case Lawrence vs. Texas (SodomyLaws.org, USA Laws). Sodomy often has a broader definition then sexual acts between same-sex couples, but frequently is only enforced against homosexuals (SodomyLaws.org, USA Laws). These laws reveal a culture of hatred and discrimination, but are not genocide. However, the argument for a genocide against homosexuals can be made in the case of thirteen countries; Afghanistan, Bangladesh, India, Iran, Mauritania, Myanmar, Nigeria, Pakistan, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Somalia, Sierra Leone, Sudan, Uganda, United Arab Emirates, and Yemen. Each of these countries has not only outlawed homosexuality, but has made it punishable by death or life imprisonment (Amnesty International). Also, Islamic Sharia law, which is practiced in parts of many countries, carries a penalty of death by stoning for an act of homosexual sex (Gay Law Net, Nigeria).
Genocides may also be ongoing in other places. Although homosexuality is not punishable by death or life imprisonment in the country, there have been claims made that the government of Columbia has specifically targeted homosexual men for destruction. The murders are carried out by the Columbian police force, who either kill or disappear men known to be gay (Rixecker 122). In the late 80s, 328 gay men were killed in the city of Medellin alone (Rixecker 122). A male prostitute is quoted as saying, "the only program the government has for (gay men) is a program to kill us" (122). There is also an unlabeled genocide ongoing in Iraq. Shia death squads are rampantly murdering men suspected of being gay and children forced into same-sex prostitution (Copestake). The murders are considered honor killings, and as such are not punishable by Iraqi law (Copestake). The killings began when a fatwa against homosexuals was issued by Grand Ayatollah Ali al-Sistani (Ireland).
This is an example of a law enacted against homosexuals from Uganda. Section 145 of the penal code says that anyone who:
(a) has carnal knowledge of any person against the order of nature;
(b) has carnal knowledge of an animal; or
(c) permits a male person to have carnal knowledge of him or her against the order of nature, commits an offence and is liable to imprisonment for life.
It is interesting to note that under this law, two consenting adult men engaging in sexual relations are committing a crime equal to bestiality. That dehumanizing comparison is a common feature of the laws in many of these countries. Laws like this help to foster discrimination, and create an environment where dehumanization makes genocide possible.
A government legislating death or life imprisonment onto a distinct social group clearly reveals "intent to destroy, in whole or in part" (Genocide Convention Article II). The same intent is revealed in the gay fatwa in Iraq, and possibly the first-person accounts of police murders in Columbia. The death penalty meets the Genocide convention's first condition, "killing members of the group" (Article II A), as do the killings in Iraq and possibly those in Columbia. Life imprisonment meets the second condition, "deliberately inflicting on the group conditions of life calculated to bring about its physical destruction in whole or in part" (Article II B), as the ultimate end of life imprisonment is death.
Unfortunately for the victims of these crimes, their deaths and sentences do not meet the standards of international law. Again, this is because homosexuals are not, as a group, members of "a national, ethnical, racial or religious group" (Article II), as required by the genocide convention. Once again, homosexuals are left in the dark without any defense in the international community. This is not justice; it is an arbitrary and prejudicial exclusion. These genocides are a severe threat to human dignity, and are crimes against humanity that, at least indirectly, affect every person on the planet. The government legislation itself is a violation of that right from which all others flow, the right to human dignity. When governments specifically targeted Jews in Germany or Tutsis in Rwanda for death, the actions were labeled genocide. But when a government targets homosexuals, who have no choice in deciding their sexuality, just as a person cannot choose race, they are not protected by the genocide convention. This makes no sense. Like political groups, homosexuals are left out. But unlike political groups, homosexuals are much more vulnerable. They are too small a minority to band together and fight and they cannot choose to stop being gay.
There are some possible justifications for not including sexual groups in the genocide convention, but none hold any water. The first justification is that, unlike Jews or Tutsis, the child of a homosexual will not necessarily be a homosexual. This is irrelevant to the genocide convention, as the effectiveness of genocide does not matter, only the "intent to destroy, in whole or in part" (Article II). The second justification is that, unlike destroying all Jews or Tutsis, homosexuality would still exist even if all homosexuals were killed in a certain area. In the next generation, 6-10 percent of people would still be gay, as the causes of homosexuality are probably not entirely hereditary, and even if they are, straight people can still have gay children. But contrary to this justification is that same fact, the effectiveness of genocide does not matter, only intent is important in regard to international law. A possible third justification is that there simply aren't enough homosexuals being killed to justify international intervention. This may be true; homosexuals are generally a small minority. But the size of targeted group makes no difference if the intent to destroy them is there. Also, including sexual groups in the genocide convention would create pressure for change outside of interventionist methods. Aside from a lack of international consensus, there is no reason to exclude homosexuals as victims. Their exclusion only allows genocides to continue, while making human rights impotent to prevent possible future genocides. And the future holds some very disturbing possibilities.
There is one final genocide left to discuss, the possible in utero genocide against homosexuals. This could be born out of increasing genetic and in utero research. It is thanks in large part to the Human Genome Project (HGP), which is an attempt to map the entire human genome (Rixecker 109). Rixecker says the project itself will ultimately "impact upon the scientific, medical, economic, political and cultural futures of all living and future human beings" (109). Of that fact there is no doubt. However, the way the HGP will impact humanity is debatable. The HGP has potential to lead to cures for certain types of cancer, cystic fibrosis, Parkinson's, Alzheimer's and many other diseases. However, genetic research has already been controversial; its identification of down syndrome being linked to a chromosome 21 trisomy, combined with prenatal genetic screening, has led to women being able to abort children with the genetic disorder (National Institute of Child Health and Human Development). There is a large ethical debate to be had around this type of research, a debate which could have serious consequences for sexual minorities.
Stephanie Rixecker, a human rights scholar and professor at Lincoln University, is very critical of the ethics surrounding genetic research and the HGP. She says there are not enough safeguards for the ethics of researchers. She says the laws and societal norms governing research are, "insufficient for protecting people who cannot defend themselves" (110). She also feels that, "ethics, law, policy, justice and human rights … are not sufficiently mature to handle and address the immediate (and long-term) consequences of the HGP" (109). Rixecker feels that in the end, economic interest may win out against moral and ethical interest (109). As the abortions resulting out of the test for Down syndrome demonstrate, the limits of morality are already being tested.
This ethical situation becomes even more interesting when it is turned toward sexuality. There is a division between scientists who feel sexuality stems from nature and those who feel it is biologically determined. However the standard today is generally that which is described in the DSM, that "human beings cannot choose to be either gay or straight" (115). This suggests that there is at least some genetic element to homosexuality, most likely combined with other factors such as in utero chemical balances, and influences a child receives as he or she grows up (118). Many genetic researches are attempting to prove that homosexuality is mostly biological, or at least that it is the result of a biological precondition. Often this is done with the reason of ending discrimination against gays and lesbians by proving their sexuality is "natural" (110). The problem is that proving homosexuality is biological will not necessarily end any discrimination, and finding the genetic markers that indicate a precondition for homosexuality may have serious ethical consequences.
Research into the Xq28 gene has shown a strong link to homosexuality in some men (Rixecker 110, footnote 3), which provides some strong evidence that homosexuality is indeed at least partially genetic.[2] Despite the many factors that may contribute to the development of sexuality, the genetic evidence is particularly striking. When this genetic knowledge is combined with reproductive biology and in utero screening, it is possible to detect and abort fetuses that have the Xq28 gene (or possibly other genes that have yet to be discovered). In the future "genetic alteration and 'enhancement'" (110) may also be possible. This means that mothers, who can already conceivably abort fetuses with a genetic predisposition to homosexuality, may actually be able to modify fetuses to erase that predisposition. Additionally they could possibly, "through the use of preimplantation genetic diagnosis … embryo selection and cloning … and in vitro fertilization, pre-select for certain traits, including the lack of homosexuality" (110). This obviously raises incredible ethical questions and could have serious consequences for the gay community. This is what Rixecker fears is the opposite side of the discovery of the so-called "gay gene" and one of the worst possible outcomes of the HGP. The techniques that could facilitate this situation are already in existence, and as the Down syndrome case demonstrates, have already been used to select fetuses for abortion. Rixecker says this means "the eradication of homosexuality in small cultural groups or on a global scale is theoretically feasible" (111).
So what does this mean in the real world, and with the current definition of genocide? In her essay Rixecker outlines a clear climate of hatred toward homosexuals in many countries. She notes that despite pressure from organizations like Amnesty International, the UN has not adopted any documents that provide significant protection for sexual minorities (120). The crux of the question is really this, will there ever be a broad campaign aimed at wiping out homosexuals, through the use of in vitro genetic manipulation or testing, in any specific country or area? The answer is a complex one.
If genetic testing and abortions/manipulation with the aim of removing homosexuality and homosexual children were made legal, the removal/modification of children with homosexual preconditions would probably not become required by law in any developed country. Some women who have had genetic testing done on their babies may choose abortion or modification, but many others would most likely make no change or not have testing done at all. The Down syndrome test has shown that governments and individuals are willing to let fetuses be aborted if they have a genetic disorder. Homosexuality is not a disorder, which greatly undercuts the chances of abortion or modification based on sexuality, but does not totally eliminate the possibility. This does not mean a campaign to eradicate homosexuality could not exist in a developed country. Germany was one of the world's highest educated and most cultured countries when Hitler came to power; with the discrimination that still exists today, one should never say never.
Genocide is probably unlikely in highly developed countries, but there is a stronger possibility that Rixecker's genocide could happen elsewhere. This would most likely be in a country where homosexuality is crime punishable by death or life imprisonment. Most of those 13 countries are not yet developed enough to have the genetic testing and screening technology and use it on a broad scale. But India (where homosexuality is punishable by life imprisonment) and Pakistan (where it is punishable by death), might. It is not a long jump between murdering people for being gay and preventing gay people from being born. In light of this, Rixecker's genocide certainly is, at least, theoretically possible.
When these four "genocides," are placed in context the picture that forms is one of horrible abuse to a vulnerable group across borders and throughout modern history. During WWII the Nazis set out to remove homosexuals, and other groups, from German society. The conditions that gay men were subjected to were as bad or worse as any other group. They were targeted for destruction, and underwent genocide. Homosexuals are still undergoing genocide in more than 13 countries, where they are either murdered or put in prison for life because of their sexuality. And it is conceivable that in the future, in certain countries or areas, generations of homosexuals could be wiped out through genetic screening, genetic modification, and abortions. Homosexuals are vulnerable and are currently not protected by international law, and this needs to change.
An effective international instrument is needed to protect homosexuals from genocide and other crimes. Gays and lesbians have undergone and still undergo treatment that would be considered genocide if they were one of the groups outlined in the genocide convention. There is intent to destroy, there is killing and there are conditions intended to bring about destruction. The most effective way to recognize past, stop current, and prevent future genocides, is to add sexual groups to the genocide convention alongside "national, ethnical, racial (and) religious group(s)" (Genocide Convention Article II). This can be done without making the convention overbroad. Hopefully, if this can be accomplished, it will serve to create international pressure and eventually result in the repealing of anti-gay laws and genocidal practices. Because gays are such a minority and targeted in so many countries, using force to end genocide is not really an option. But simply by recognizing the plight of homosexuals in international law will create some form of protection and justice, and raise massive amounts of awareness that can hopefully bring about change. But changing international law is a complex process, and the genocide convention must not be made overbroad.
The question of over broadness is where the "psychological genocide" must be applied. As mentioned above, it was not genocide and does not meet the requirements of the genocide convention. It would not meet those requirements even if sexual groups were included in the definition. This must remain so. The 5 criteria in article II of the genocide convention should not be removed, added to or changed. Changing them to recognize things like the psychological war against homosexuality would over broaden the convention and make it much less effective. This is where the line must be drawn. To reiterate, simply adding sexual groups to the first part of article II does not remove any power from the convention through over broadness and it stays true to the convention's original purpose. It is adding to the 5 criteria of article II that would make it overbroad.
But there still remains one large problem. Many countries in the UN will never agree to adding sexual groups to the genocide convention, especially when 70 outlaw sodomy. Some Islamic countries, like Iran, refuse to even admit that homosexuality exists within their borders (Daily Mail). This essay attempts to establish what justice dictates should be done in the case of the genocide convention. Adding sexual groups to the convention is just, but it is not practical in today's world. But sexual groups still remain in limbo in terms of international law; there is no effective treaty which protects their rights As such, for practical purposes, a declaration, and eventually a convention, or possibly an optional protocol to the ICCPR, must be drawn up to protect the rights of sexual groups and sexual minorities. This should take a similar form to the CEDAW and CERD. It must specifically outlaw discrimination based on sexual preference, declare that homosexuality is not a disease, and require governments to repeal sodomy/homosexuality laws and begin education campaigns to reduce stigma. This will help increase international pressure to end the stigmatization, stereotyping and hatred toward gays and lesbians. It will also help to gradually work toward a modification of the genocide convention that recognizes past, helps to end current, and helps to prevent future genocides.
Unfortunately, even something as simple as a declaration has little chance of entering into force in the UN. There are simply too many countries opposed to homosexuality. Change is possible, but it must be brought about gradually, through education and pressure from governments, NGOs, IGOs and individuals. Groups like Amnesty International and the International Gay and Lesbian Human Rights Commission are already fighting to create pressure for an international document protecting the rights of sexual minorities. Unfortunately, so far they have been unsuccessful. But, to borrow a term from Rixecker, a new "social map" (123) must be created in the world. It is certainly an uphill battle, but it is one that is being and certainly needs to be fought.
In conclusion, it is evident that homosexuals have undergone and still undergo massive discrimination, hatred and even genocide. Their treatment in WWII was genocidal, their treatment in countries where their sexuality is outlawed on pain of death or life imprisonment is genocide, and it is possible that a genetic genocide could be visited upon them in the future. To serve justice and provide protection, sexual groups must be included alongside the other groups in article II of the genocide convention. This will help to recognize past, end current, and prevent future genocides against gay men and women. This change can be done without making the convention over broad or ineffective, and the psychological non-genocide can be used a test to draw the line. Changing the genocide convention will be difficult and probably take many years, and other steps will have to come before any modification. But change is possible, and for justice and human dignity to be served, change must come.
Works Cited
Amnesty International USA. "LGBT Status Around the World." 2009. Amnesty International USA. 13
January 2009 <http://www.amnestyusa.org/lgbt-human-rights/country-information/page.do?id=1106576>.
Bennetto, Jason. "Holocaust: Gay Activits Press for German Apology." 1 November 1997.
FindArticles.com. 13 January 2009 <http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_qn4158/is_/ai_n14142669>.
Bergen, Doris L. War and Genocide: A Concise History of the Holocaust. Lanham, Maryland:
Rowman & Littlefield Publishers, Inc., 2003.
Bull, Chris. "Memories of Nazi Persecution." Advocate 879 (2002): 14-14.
Copestake, Jennifer. "Gays flee Iraq as Shia death squads find a new target." The Observer 6 August
2006: http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2006/aug/06/gayrights.iraq.
Dadrian, Vahakn N. "Children as Victims of Genocide; The Armenian Case." Journal of Genocide
Research (2003): 421-438.
Daily Mail. Mail Online. 25 September 2007. 30 March 2009
Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development. Facts About
Down Syndrome. 15 August 2008. 10 March 2009 <http://www.nichd.nih.gov/publications/pubs/downsyndrome.cfm#TheOccurrence>.
GayLawNet. Laws. 2008. 13 January 2009 <http://www.gaylawnet.com/laws/laws.htm>.
Inernational Gay and Lesbian Human Rights Commission. Home. 2009. 13 January 2009
Ireland, Doug. "Youths Slain in Anti-Gay Fatwa." Gay City News 5 September 2006:
Michel Prum, Benedicte Deschamps, Marie-Claude Barbier. Racial, Ethnic and Homophobic Violence:
Killing in the Name of Otherness. Oxon, OX: Routledge-Cavendish, 2007.
Percy, William A. "Humbuldt University of Berlin." 22 June 2006. Homosexuality and the Holocaust.
13 January 2009 <http://www2.hu-berlin.de/sexology/BIB/Homosexuality_and_the_Holocaust.htm>.
Rixecker, Stefanie S. "Genetic Engineering and Queer Biotechnology: The Eugenics of the Twenty-
First Century?" Journal of Genocide Research (2002): 109-126.
Robert J. Cramer, Frank D. Golom, Charles T. LoPresto, Salene M. Kirkley. "Weighing the Evidence:
Empirical Assessment and Ethical Implications of Conversion Therapy." Ethics and Behaviour 18.1 (2008): 93-114.
Romesburg, Don. "The politics of the gay gene." Advocate (2005): 7-7.
SodomyLaws.org. Sodomy Laws in the United States. 24 November 2007. 30 March 2009
Stonewall UK. "Timeline of lesbian and gay history." 2007. Stonewall. 23 January 2009
United Nations. "Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide." United
Nations, 9 December 1948.
United Nations General Assembly. "Universal Declaration of Human Rights." New York: United
Nations, 10 December 1948.
United States Holocaust Memorial Museum. "Lesbians and the Third Reich." 7 October 2008. United
States Holocaust Memorial Museum. 13 January 2009 <http://www.ushmm.org/wlc/article.php?lang=en&ModuleId=10005478>.
United States Holocaust Memorial. "Nazi Persecution of Homosexuals 1933-1945." 2009. United
States Holocaust Memorial. 13 January 2009 <http://www.ushmm.org/museum/exhibit/online/hsx/>.
Vilanch, Bruce. "Tolerance and Tennessee." Advocate 939 (2005): 72-72.
[1] Lesbian women received different treatment. They were often ignored because they could be forced to reproduce and were not usually considered a threat. However, some were put in camps and others were forced to work in brothels (Bergen 187).
[2] This study, performed by Dean Hamer, has been disputed by a later study. However, this second study used a smaller test group made up of a different field of subjects. Hamer has stood by his research, and has conducted a second study which further confirmed the link between Xq28 and homosexuality, but only in men.


text:
Currier Inks Five More Student-Athletes to Join Men's Basketball Program
May 25, 2010
MISENHEIMER, N.C. – Five student-athletes of the 2010 recruiting class will join the Pfeiffer University men's basketball program in the fall announced head coach Jeremy Currier. David Batson, Chris Stokes, Brandon Dorsett, Aaron Van Buren, and Mitchell Hargett will all join the Falcons in August.
Batson comes to Pfeiffer after one season at King College as the only freshman on the Tornados roster. Prior to King, Batson starred at Covenant Day School in Charlotte averaging 18 points per game. While at Covenant Day, the 6'3'', 190-pound guard was named to the Wesleyan Academy Invitational all-tournament team, the coaches award, and the prestigious Covenant Day School Male Athlete of the Year Award. Other season accolades for Batson include a personal victory in the Kennedy Charter Tip-Off Tournament three-point contest, being named to the Charlotte Pro Am Classic and the North Carolina State All-Star Game, all while maintaining a 3.8 grade point average. "David is a special young man that has an incredible drive and focus on excellence on and off the court," Currier said. "David has a tremendous skill set that offers our program a level of versatility that we need on both ends of the court."
Rounding out the sophomore class is Stokes, who comes to Misenheimer via Gateway Community College in New Haven, Connecticut. Stokes led Gateway Community College to an 18-6 record and berth in the Region 21 Finals. The 5'11" Stokes anchored a well-balanced team averaging 8.9 points, 4.3 rebounds, 3.3 assists, and 2.4 assists per contest as a freshman. Prior to Gateway C.C., Stokes led Ocean Lakes High School (VA) to a 20-5 record and a Beach District Tournament Championship in both his sophomore and senior seasons. "Chris has been a winner his entire career," commented Currier. "When we were recruiting Chris, the word that everyone used to describe him was 'winner'. Some players have the knack of identifying what a team needs for them to compete at the highest level, and Chris has that ability."
Dorsett joins the Falcons after a tremendous career at Greensboro Day School, where he played under legendary coach Fred Johnson. "He won three games for us at the buzzer this year" Johnson stated. "He has a great instinct of getting to the basket and getting a shot off. He's always had that knack." The 6'1'' point guard averaged 13.4 points, 3.3 assists, 2.6 steals per game while shooting a staggering 53% from the field, 46% from three and 78% from the free throw line. For his efforts, Dorsett was awarded six different post-season awards including being named the Greensboro Day MVP. "Brandon embodies what we are looking for in a student-athlete at Pfeiffer University. Currier commented. "He has excelled for four years both on and off the court at Greensboro Day School where he played under coach Johnson. We could not be more excited about Brandon joining the Falcon Basketball Family."
The 6'4'', 185-pound shooting guard Van Buren comes to Pfeiffer after a standout career at Impact Academy. At Impact, Van Buren averaged 13.8 points, 5.7 rebounds, 4.3 assists, and 1.4 steals per contest. "I think Pfeiffer is a great fit for Aaron, he is a deadly shooter and can finish in the open floor. He will fit nicely with their high-energy style of play. I am looking forward to seeing Aaron develop over the next four years," said former coach Matt Hiller. Van Buren was named to the Impact Invitational all-tournament team in 2009 as he guided Impact into the National Prep School rankings. "Aaron Van Buren is a tall shooting guard with an unbelievably high ceiling," Currier said. "He is extremely athletic, excels in the open floor, and is a natural shooter that has demonstrated tremendous range."
Hargett rounds out the freshman class for 2010, coming to Misenheimer from Charlotte Christian School where he played on one of the most successful high school teams in the country. The 6'4'', 190-pound guard played an intricate role on the nationally ranked Charlotte Christian team that ended the year with a 29-5 record and competed against Findlay Prep on ESPN's Rise National Invitational. Noted by the Bob Gibbons All-Star Report as a player to watch, Hargett was selected to the 19th-annual Charlotte All-Star game and the Pro-Am All-Star Classic. Mitchell was selected as the recipient of the prestigious Jennifer and Kimberly Hendrick Memorial Award. Hargett played AAU ball with the EA Prep Stars program. "Mitchell is a big lefty win that just keeps getting better," said Currier. "He has been playing with two winning organizations in Charlotte Christian and the EA Prep Stars, and is accustomed to winning championships. We are thrilled that Mitchell will be coming to Pfeiffer, where we will count on him to help bring the Falcons back to national prominence."
"Overall, I think it is a diverse group of guys that will ultimately help us continue to compete for Conference Carolinas championships each year," stated Currier. "In this group, we have addressed many of our roster needs, and have added depth to a veteran laden team."
These five student athletes will join a Falcons program anchored by seniors Chris Woods and Jeff Pettiway. Woods was named to the Basketball Times all-American team, NABC all-region team, Daktronics all-region team and Conference Carolinas first-team selections. Pettiway led the NCAA and Southeast Region in three-point shooting much of the season, and finished as an all-Conference Carolinas selection. The Falcons will open the 2010-11 campaign at North Carolina State on November 9, 2010 in Raleigh, NC.

subset: commoncrawl


text:
Image may not necessarily represent the actual item -Please read the title and description before purchasing.
Last Price: $1,208.51
Guns can only be shipped to a location within the USA that holds an FFL (Federal Firearms License) - this can be your local gun shop, pawn shop, sporting goods store, etc. Your local gun dealer will then handle the transfer of the firearm to you.
Please ensure that you have familiarized yourself with the process before placing a firearm order. Please note that you must confirm your acceptance of all of these policies to place a firearm order:
Left hand, polished stainless, gold engraving, gloss walnut & rosewood, Monte Carlo, detachable rotary magazine, short throw bolt, adjustable trigger, bolt-action.
Browning has over 50 years of experience with bolt-action high-powered rifles. Today's X-Bolt rifle inherits the strongest, most note-worthy features of its predecessors. The X-Bolt White Gold model has a Monte Carlo stock. This feature is recognized as the comb steps sharply down toward the heel of the buttstock, allowing more contact between the recoil pad of the stock and the shooter's shoulder. With this design, the recoil of the fired shell comes directly back or in-line with the stronger part of the inner shoulder, making the rifle more pleasant to shoot, especially when a long day at the range is expected.
The X-Bolt White Gold is beautifully adorned with a polished stainless steel receiver that is drilled and tapped for scope mounts with engravings both the front and rear. This rifle also has a polished stainless steel barrel. Its stock is a gloss-finished, finely checkered with a rosewood forend and grip cap.
The White Gold's beauty is really on the inside, in how it shoots and what makes it so accurate. The three-lever Feather Trigger™ system is probably the most comfortable, simple trigger on any bolt-action rifle on the market. There is no take-up or creep and very little over-travel. This is the kind of trigger serious hunters and shooters demand. Next is the superb free-floating barrel with target Crown, then triple-checked for interior finish, straightness and air-guaged for total uniformity. No doubt, this rifle has it all. Looks, handling and most important, dead-on accuracy.
• Left hand design for optimal comfort and familiarity.
• Monte Carlo stock places the recoil pad directly in line with the shoulder, resulting in less perceived recoil for more comfortable shooting.
• The high grade Walnut stock with detailed checkering provides classic good looks.
• A durable gloss finish provides protection and enhances the natural beauty of the hardwood.
• Rosewood caps on the fore-end and grip offer additional elegance.
• Innovative Inflex Technology recoil pad uses directional deflection to pull the stock down and away from the face to reduce perceived recoil.
• Barrel, action, trigger guard and other metal surfaces feature polished stainless steel for a striking appearance.
• Button-rifled barrel is triple checked for quality and individually hand chambered and air gauged to ensure consistency and accuracy.
• The target Crown enables the uniform release of gas as the bullet exits the barrel, preventing a shift in trajectory. The Crown is recessed to protect it from accidental damage that degrades accuracy.
• Free floated barrel eliminates contact interference from the fore-end, enabling the superior barrel craftsmanship to perform consistently and accurately.
• Drilled and tapped for X-Lock scope mounts that use four screws for each base to provide a rock solid optic platform.
• Adjustable Feather Trigger minimizes the "human factor" by eliminating creep and take-up — providing a crisp trigger pull that "breaks like glass."
• Low profile action allows you to mount the scope extremely close to the center of the bore to minimize the offset between point of aim and Point of Impact.
• 60° bolt lift keeps the thumb and fingers clear of the scope when cycling the action and allows the bolt to be operated in a smoother/quicker motion.
• Top-tang safety offers easy accessibility without removing your firing hand from the stock. The shooter can quickly manipulate the safety, or verify the position of the safety, without losing your sight picture or cheek weld.
•Detachable rotary magazine is built from tough polymer and is designed to stop forward movement of the cartridge by contacting the shoulder of the case rather than the tip of the projectile. This prevents bullet tip deformation and recoil induced bullet seating depth change.
•Bolt Unlock Button allows the bolt to be cycled with the safety engaged.
Please Note: This description may represent a general group of products. Please read the item's title and specifications for more specific information about this particular item.
Reviews of Browning X-Bolt White Gold Medallion Left-Hand Rifle 035283246, 300 WSM, 23 in BBL, Bolt-Action, Gloss Walnut Stock, Polished Stainless Finish, 3 Rds, Shot Show
Just click the 'Write Review' button on the product's information page.
Enter your UPS tracking number to track your order
Firearms | Handguns | Rifles | Shotguns | Tactical Rifles | Tactical Shotguns | All Manufacturers


text:
Women's Soccer Ranked #4 in Southeast Region; Received Votes for National Poll
September 7, 2010
MISENHEIMER, N.C. After a pair of 2-1 victories in the 2010 Queens Soccer Classic over #5 Carson-Newman and Flagler, the Pfeiffer University womens soccer team comes in at #4 in the NSCAA/Hendrickcars.com Southeast region poll and received votes for the nations top-25.
The Lady Falcons used a double overtime goal by Hanna Holmstrom (Bredaryd, SWEDEN) in Fridays upset of the fifth-ranked Lady Eagles while Lindsey Godwin (Raleigh, NC) deposited the game-winner in the 74th minute against Flagler.
Pfeiffer has two more tough pre-conference tests this week traveling to Hickory, NC for a Wednesday night match up at Lenoir-Rhyne (1-1) before hosting #1 in the region and #8 nationally Columbus State (2-0) at noon on Sunday.
Live stats will be available for both contests through www.gofalconsports.com.


text:
Salma Hayek the resistance fighter
Latino lovely Salma Hayek is set to play a hardened Algerian activist in her upcoming movie about the life of the resistance fighter.
Hayek will be playing Lalla Fadhma, known as the Joan of Arc of Djudura for her part in the Algerian resistance movement.
The Hollywood actress is known for her eclectic choice of roles, having played everything from a bi-sexual modern art legend to the wife of an assassin in Once Upon a Time in Mexico. But Lalla Fadhma is still an unusual choice.
The movie, directed by Algerian Rashid Bin Haj is budgeted at 40 million dollars and will be shot in Algeria, France and Qatar. There are rumors that Omar Sharif and the granddaughters of Fadhma will also be involved.
Fadma was 24 when French troops invaded the country and she took to the mountains to defend her land. In 1857 she was captured and died in prison six years later.
What do you think about Salma's choice of role? Tell us below.
Top Headlines
If Salma Hayek wants people to know about what strong women do in their lives, then she should start being stronger at home. Why doesn't she get a divorce from her disgusting stupid billionaire pig deadbeat dad husband as soon as possible? Her husband Francois-Henri Pinault lacks good morals because he abandoned his son with Linda Evangelista. That would be the best feminist act that Salma Hayek can do right now since Salma Hayek has claimed to be a feminist and she has done lots of charity work for women and children for many years. Please tell me what kind of a feminist gets married to a deadbeat dad when deadbeat dads hurt their own children. Of course, it would have been better if both Salma Hayek and Linda Evangelista had never even met Francois-Henri Pinault.


text:
Fill your bathtub with warm water, drop in the Bath Bomb and lay back to enjoy its lovely color and gorgeous fragrance. Some LUSH Bath Bombs contain flower petals and others have secret surprises (if you prefer not to have these pieces floating in your tub, wrap the Bath Bomb in a recycled nylon before use). To make your experience even more memorable, combine your fragrant Bath Bomb with a Luxury Bath Melt.
Phoenix Rising
Bath Bomb
Product Actions
This product does not contain animal products of any kind.
This product does not contain animal products of any kind.
More from Bath Bombs:
Spicy cinnamon fizzer
If you've ever read the LUSH We Believe statement on our bags or here on our website, you may remember the bit that says, "We believe in the right to make mistakes, lose everything and start again." This Bath Bomb is a tribute to our belief that great things can rise out of the ashes, just like the mythical Phoenix. Royal purple and gold-dusted, with a cinnamon stick in the center, this gorgeous bomb sinks to the bottom of the tub when you toss it in, and slowly rises up, fizzing out a spicy apple and cinnamon scent.
- Spicy and fruity: The Phoenix has a refreshing orangey twist to lift your spirits.
- Baby, it's cold outside:Perfect for warming up in the tub on a crisp autumn or winter night.
- Sparkling cinnamon fizz: The spicy scent of cinnamon is excellent for stimulating tired minds and bodies.
Customer Review
from MB
"I love this product for a late night bath. It creates such a beautiful aroma and bath."
Fresh ingredients
= Natural ingredients = Safe syntheticsSodium Bicarbonate , Citric Acid , Icing Sugar , Fair Trade Organic Cocoa Butter (Theobroma Cacao) , PEG-6 Caprylic / Capric Glycerides & PEG60 Almond Glycerides , Fragrance , Bergamot Oil (Citrus Aurantium bergamia) , Cassia Oil (Cinnnamomum Cassia) , Cold Pressed Organic Jojoba Oil (Simmondsia chinensis) , Shea Butter (Butyrospermum parkii) , *Cinnamal , *Citral , *Limonene , *Linalool , Red 27 , Blue 1 , Mica , Titanium Dioxide , Iron Oxides , Ferric Ferrocyanide , Frosty Holly Lustre (Potassium Silicate, Titanium Dioxide, FD&C Yellow No.5 and FD&C Blue No.1) , Gold Lustre (Potassium Silicate, Titanium Dioxide, Iron Oxides, and Iron Hydroxide) , Cinnamon Sticks (Cinnamomum cassia)
- How to use
- How it's made
Customers who like this item also like:
You Recently Viewed:
- Reviews
- Questions & Answers


text:
All Starbucks City Mugs from «bandung»
Latest Site Comments
Valeriemw I have this mug willing to trade for just about anything I'm a new collector. I have 3 available... May 29, 2015
humbear Is this one still available in stores? May 26, 2015
Jay Jay Hi Elle, Thanks for the reply! That's what I figured... I purposely flew into Alicante just to... May 26, 2015
elle Hi Jay Jay, unfortunatelly the unique store in Alicante is after the security check on the... May 26, 2015
elle That mug is no longer available since Dec.2010 but you may find it in stores as Mini Icon... May 26, 2015
elle I need that mug cause is the only of the Malaysia that I don't have. Some one have that mug, I... May 25, 2015
hcorea65 Hi @ Vossern,are you going to be able to trade for this mug??? Thank you :) May 24, 2015
uk-neil I see there's a couple already on eBay already. May 24, 2015
vossern Starbucks Stavanger opens Wednesday 27.05 12.00 Starbucks Stavanger �pner onsdag 27.05 kl 12 00 May 24, 2015
Jay Jay I will be flying into Alicante next month, is there any way to access the starbucks without... May 23, 2015
Tagged: «bandung» (4 found) (x)
→ add mug to Fred's database →
Bandung Mini Mug #4596
Karma: 0 Added by verity 0 Comments
Bandung Tumbler #3860
Karma: -1 Added by vantau 0 Comments
Jaipongan Dance #1642
Karma: 2 Added by dragon89 0 Comments
Bandung 12 Oz #1533
Karma: 2 Added by tonymara 0 Comments


text:
Prices shown in currencies other than USA Dollars are estimates based on current exchange rates. We will charge your credit card in USA Dollars on the day your order is shipped, and the conversion to your local currency will be done at the prevailing rate by your credit card issuer.
Shipments outside the USA are declared as "bike parts" for customs purposes and will include the actual amount paid for merchandise and shipping. Jenson USA will not mark your parcel as a "gift", declare a value lower than the actual price paid, or otherwise prepare false customs information.
Tell a friend! We'll send your friends the page and your message.
Note: You and your friend's email addresses are only used once as a referral. We will not collect or store the email addresses.
The Kenda Kommando has small, short knobs that is perfect for dry grass or hardpacked dirt courses. The reversible tread direction allows you to slap these on and play in the mud. Kenda's DTC formula provides you with a fast rolling tire, that doesn't lack traction coming into turns. To keep you rollin', Kenda used embedded Iron Cloak protection. Iron Cloak protection is Kenda's most puncture resistant material.
Reviewed by 2 customers
Sort by
Best Uses
Comments about Kenda Kommando Dtc-Sct 700C Tire:
I'm really happy with these tires! Very fast rolling. Using tubeless with Stan's sealant on Shimano Dura-Ace road tubeless wheelset. Aired up easily using compressor, no burps thus far. I've been using about 30 PSI. Very fast rolling tire for hardpack. Not a very wide casing nor much air volume, so a bigger, heavier rider might be better served with something like a Small Block that has a bigger casing (I'm 150 pounds). Raced about 4x thus far without issue.
Best Uses
Comments about Kenda Kommando Dtc-Sct 700C Tire:
Fantastic tyre for running a tubless setup on your cyclocross. Worked perfectly for me and have used =them for several races.
Jenson USA ships worldwide, including APO/FPO addresses. For a quote, simply add the items you are interested in to your shopping cart and look for the "Shipping Options" box. You don't have to login or create an account to see shipping charges.
Some manufacturers restrict where we can ship their products. If this item has shipping restrictions, they are listed below. If you'd like to buy an item that we cannot ship to your preferred address, we can accept your foreign credit card and ship to a USA address for you.
Get free shipping with your $50 purchase today when you choose Standard Shipping at checkout. Please note this offer is only available to physical shipping addresses in the 48 continental United States (no PO Boxes), and oversize charges still apply on some heavy/large items
Get free Standard Shipping with your $50 purchase today! Just choose Standard Shipping during checkout.
Please note this offer is only available to physical shipping addresses in the 48 continental United States (no PO Boxes), and oversize charges still apply on some heavy/large items.


text:
The Kindle Fire is going to be released next week. Hundreds of thousands of pre-orders will be shipped with accounts already pre-registered on the device. You may have your Fire next week or you might have to wait to get it on Christmas. Here are a few things you can do in the meantime to make your Kindle Fire a powerful tablet once you have one in your possession.
If you currently don't have a Amazon account you should go and set one up. This will allow you to get content on your account so you will be able to use the content on your Fire. When you add your debit card, credit card, or bank account to Amazon, this makes it really easy to rent movies, buy songs, games, and books right on your device.
The next thing that I would encourage you to do is check out the app of the day. Right now Amazon's App Store has a free app of the day. If you find an app that you like you can purchase it now and it will be on your account so that when you get your Fire you can download all the apps you have previously purchased. If you currently have an Android phone you can download that App Store or visit the site on the web to start building a collection of apps you would like to.
The Fire is going to be a great tablet for media consumption. When you buy a song on Amazon it will automatically put it in your Amazon Cloud Drive. You will then be able to listen to on your Fire or on the web. Right now you can take your current music and upload it to Amazon Cloud Player so that you will be able to stream all of your own music to your new tablet. New users can store up to 5GB of data in the cloud and you can buy more through Amazon. On Amazon's Kindle Fire page is said that you will have free storage for all your Amazon content. I am not sure if this will increase your storage or will just be for content that your purchase from Amazon.
The last thing you need to do is make sure that you have an internet connection and a wireless router so that you will be able to connect to the internet once you have your tablet. Oh, don't forget to purchase your Fire and get a couple for the rest of the family while you are at it.


text:
Don't Have an Account? Join the IHG® Rewards Club
Redeem when you want, for what you want.
Reward Nights
When redeeming points for a Reward
Night, you may only book one room at a time.
Once you complete your Reward Night
reservation you will be given the option
to duplicate this reservation
* Requires affiliation in the respective organization.
** Best Available Rate Search does not include affiliation rates.
To book more than 9 rooms for one stay or request a quote, please use our Easy Meetings tool, call 1-800-MEETING (in United States, Mexico and Canada) or contact a Global Sales Office.
Welcome to the Holiday Inn Express® Hotel & Suites Hearne. Our hotel's location in central Texas is perfect for both business and leisure travelers. Besides an ideal location, our hotel offers guests professional service and top-notch amenities.
This Hearne hotel's location is perfect for business travelers. We are near many local companies, including Halliburton, Schlumberger, Rowan, Conoco Phillips,Trinidad Drilling and Fluor. This
View More
This Hearne hotel's location is perfect for business travelers. We are near many local companies, including Halliburton, Schlumberger, Rowan, Conoco Phillips,Trinidad Drilling and Fluor. This home away from home provides guests with the best in business services. Guests staying here enjoy free high-speed Internet access and a 24-hour Business Center.
Hearne sits at the crossroads of three major highways: TX-6, US-79 and US-190. This is a major benefit for travelers who are headed to Texas A&M and Blinn College in Bryan - College Station or heading east to Austin. During your trip, be sure to visit the many local historical sites like the Hearne Railroad Depot and the World War II prisoner of war camp, Camp Hearne.
Lodging at our hotel ensures that you can have a carefree trip to Texas. We offer great hotel amenities like an outdoor pool and whirlpool, an on-site laundry facility and a convenience store and gift shop. Every morning we invite you to join us for a free, hot breakfast bar, featuring our signature cinnamon rolls. Whatever your reason for visiting Hearne, our hotel's amenities and services are sure to be exactly what you need.
Best Price Guarantee
We promise you access to the guaranteed best available prices, or your first night is free.
Online Reservation Guarantee
Your room is guaranteed.
No Booking Fees!
We do not charge any booking fees for making reservations directly with us.
Data Privacy and Site Security
IHG takes your privacy seriously and works to protect you. All personal information you provide is encrypted and secure.
About IHG
IHG Careers
IHG Global Brands
Explore Hotels
Email Management
Terms of Use
Privacy Statement
Site Map
Cookie Usage
Learn more about our free apps.
Top Destinations
Atlanta Hotels | Chicago Hotels | Dallas Hotels | Honolulu Hotels | Houston Hotels | Los Angeles Hotels | New York Hotels | Orlando Hotels | San Francisco Hotels | Washington DC Hotels | Las Vegas Hotels | New Orleans Hotels | London Hotels | Paris Hotels | Dubai Hotels | Sydney Hotels | Hong Kong Hotels | Amsterdam Hotels | Toronto Hotels | Shanghai Hotels | IHG Travel Blog
© 2015 IHG. All rights reserved. Most hotels are independently owned and operated.
The standard cookie policy for this website is to allow all cookies. This helps to ensure you have the optimal experience. If you would like to continue with our optimal website experience, you don't need to make any changes. If you would like to learn more about how we use cookies or change your settings, you can use the link at the bottom of any page at any time.


text:
Telephone Amplifier
Never strain to hear a phone conversation again! Powerful amplifier simply plugs in between handset and phone base, boosting volume up to 3X with crystal-clear clarity. On/off switch and volume control. Works with standard, single- and multi-line corded phones. Uses 2 AAA batteries (not included). 3 1/2"H x 2 1/8"W x 1"D.
|May We Suggest
|**In order to join, you need to have at least
1 item in your shopping cart.


text:
Image may not necessarily represent the actual item -Please read the title and description before purchasing.
Our Price: $30.99
Lee's limited production pacesetter dies carry the same features and quality of standard dies, but do not include a Lee factory crimp die. You'll find no better die at any other price. Half the price of competitive dies and theirs doesn't include load data which is priceless on odd or absolete calibers.
Please Note: This description may represent a general group of products. Please read the item's title and specifications for more specific information about this particular item.
Type : Pacesetter LP Rifle Dies W/ShellholderCaliber : 270 Winchester Short Magnum
Reviews of Lee 90572 Limited Production 270 Winchester Short Mag Dies w/Shellholder
As thanks for your feedback, we will send you a $5 coupon code for writing a product review!
Just click the 'Write Review' button on the product's information page.
Enter your UPS tracking number to track your order
Firearms | Handguns | Rifles | Shotguns | Tactical Rifles | Tactical Shotguns | All Manufacturers


text:
|6.3 lbs.
|Arbor Size:
|5/8 in.
|Batteries Included:
|Bare Tool
|Battery Type:
|Bevel Capacity:
|0 - 50 Degrees
|Blade Diameter:
|6-1/2 in.
|Blade Position:
|Depth of Cut at 90 Degrees:
|2-1/4 in.
|Dewalt 18V XRP Cordless 6-1/2 in. Circular Saw Kit
|View »
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®by PowerReviews
Best Uses
Reviewed by 9 customers
Sort by
Displaying reviews 1-5
Previous | Next »
Best Uses
Comments about 18V Cordless XRP 6-1/2 in. Circular Saw (Bare Tool):
home use
Best Uses
Comments about 18V Cordless XRP 6-1/2 in. Circular Saw (Bare Tool):
great tool easy to use
Best Uses
Comments about 18V Cordless XRP 6-1/2 in. Circular Saw (Bare Tool):
work great
Best Uses
Comments about 18V Cordless XRP 6-1/2 in. Circular Saw (Bare Tool):
Got the job done installing siding when electric was not available.
Best Uses
Comments about 18V Cordless XRP 6-1/2 in. Circular Saw (Bare Tool):
This is a pretty well balanced, good looking saw. I like the left hand mounted blade. You can see the cutting line. I use it to cut just about anything from 3/4 plywood to 2x4's. It's got decent power and gets the job done. I bought this to complement my DeWalt cordless jigsaw, drill and impact driver. The only thing I would change on it is the plastic retracting blade guard. I would make it out of aluminum like Millwalkee does.
Displaying reviews 1-5
Previous | Next »
Do you have questions about this product?
Get answers from real customers and in-house experts with AnswerBox.
Q:will the batteries for the XRP 6 1/2 inch saw charge in a dw9118 dewalt charger
1 answer
A:No, it will not. That charger maxes out at 14.4 v.
Q:I have gotten 2 different answers on this question - so here goes: Does this bare tool come with a blade. I also have another question: Does this come in a Dewalt case (all other searches of this bare tool do come with cases)? Thanks.
1 answer
A:The tool will include a blade but no case. Please reference Dewalt's online listing below
Q:Do the "Bare Tool" saws come with the blade as pictured? There's no mention of it being included or not included.
1 answer
A:Yes,it comes with a blade.
Q:Does the bare tool come with a saw blade?
1 answer
A:The bare tool does not come with a blade.
Q:Is the DC9098 battery compatible with the DEWALT Bare-Tool DC390B 6-1/2-Inch 18-Volt Cordless Circular Saw?
2 answers
A:DC9098 is compatible with any non univolt 18V tool
A:This saw uses the DX909618v XRP Battery.
Three-Year Limited Warranty. DEWALT will repair, without charge, any defects due to faulty materials or workmanship for three years from the date of purchase. This warranty does not cover part failure due to normal wear or tool abuse. For further detail of warranty coverage and warranty repair information, visit www.dewalt.com or call 1-800-4-DEWALT (1-800-433-9258). This warranty does not apply to accessories or damage caused where repairs have been made or attempted by others. This warranty gives you specific legal rights and you may have other rights which vary in certain states or provinces.
One-Year Free Service Contract. DEWALT will maintain the tool and replace worn parts caused by normal use, for free, any time during the first year after purchase.
90-Day Money Back Guarantee. If you are not completely satisfied with the performance of your DEWALT Power Tool, Laser, or Nailer for any reason, you can return it within 90 days from the date of purchase with a receipt for a full refund - no questions asked.


text:
By Wayne Allen
The family of 17-year-old Sabrina Myers, of West Portsmouth, said she has been missing since Tuesday, Jan. 14. The family is asking anyone with knowledge of her whereabouts to call the Scioto County Sheriff's Department.
"She got on the school bus at 6:50 a.m on Tuesday morning. She went in the school (Portsmouth West High School) and did not go to class, she went out the back door or a side door," said Michelle Myers, the mother of Sabrina Myers.
Michelle Myers said she has not heard from Sabrina Myers since Tuesday morning, and suspects she is with her boyfriend. She has filed a missing persons report with the Scioto County Sheriff's Office, who also believe Sabrina Myers is with her 18-year-old boyfriend.
"We passed out 300 flyers on Saturday, I've got it all over Facebook and have filed a report with the sheriffs office," Michelle Myers said. "I went to a couple of places last night, she was at one of them earlier in the day, but she was gone when I got there."
She is believed to still in the area. Anyone with information is encouraged to call the Scioto County Sheriff's Department at 740-355-8261.
Wayne Allen can be reached at 740-353-3101, ext. 228 or on Twitter @WayneallenPDT.


text:
The Kinston Marine Corps League members recently held the league's annual Recognition and Awards Ceremony.
Opening activities included prayer by Marine Grant Hayes, welcome and acknowledgement of guests by Marine Herbert Davis, the Pledge of Allegiance led by Commandant Cornelius Tindal, and the National Anthem sung by Patsy Hayes. The Marine Corps Toast and dinner followed. Keynote speaker of the day was Marine Glendon Wiggins of High Point.
The following awards and recognitions were presented by Commandant Tindal:
Mike Tribula
Bobby C. Simmons
Glendon Wiggins
Herbert and Wyonia Davis – Davis Publishing Company
Vivian Hughes – Marine of the Year
William McIver – Lifetime Membership
Vivian Hughes – Lifetime Membership
In addition to the individual awards and recognitions listed above, the detachment acknowledged receipt of an award and ribbon for another successful year of membership building and retention.
The detachment has several plans in the making for 2014 to include membership building events and fundraisers. Additionally, we plan to celebrate the Marine Corps Birthday in November with a Marine Corps Ball at the American Legion in Kinston.
Active duty Marines are welcome to attend meetings at 6:30 p.m. the fourth Thursday of each month at the American Legion Post No. 43 (300 McLewean Street, Kinston, NC). Marine Corps League Detachment No. 257 is looking for a few good Marines.
Fairfield duplicate bridge results
The Fairfield Duplicate Bridge Club played a regular game on April 22. Nancy Barwick and Joe Goldwasser won first place with a 74% game. Dayle Pond and Edith Cahn won second place, Joyce Witherington and Dorothy Taylor were third, and Pinkey Harper and Geneva Hood placed fourth. The club will play a regular game on Tuesday at 9:50 a.m. at Fairfield Center. All duplicate bridge players are encouraged to attend. The club is sanctioned by the American Contract Bridge League, and it is authorized to award ACBL master points. For more information, please call 252-523-6791.
Library to hold book sale
The Kinston-Lenoir County Public Library will hold a book sale from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday, May 3, and from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Sunday, May 4. The sale will be held in the Schechter Auditorium of the library.
The library will be offering a wide variety of used materials, including hardback books, paperback books, children's books, magazines, DVDs, CDs, and video games.
For more information, please call the Kinston-Lenoir County Public Library at 252-527-7066.


text:
Softball Sweeps Queens; Remains Unbeaten at 6-0 in League Play
March 5, 2011
Story Courtesy of Queens Sports Information
CHARLOTTE, N.C.- Queens dropped its first complete Conference Carolinas series to Pfeiffer Saturday afternoon at Park Road Park. The Falcons took game one by a score of 8-0 and snuck by the Royals 2-1 in the second. The losses drop Queens to 11-11 on the year and 4-4 in league play while Pfeiffer improves to 11-9 on the year and remains perfect at 6-0 in conference action.
Game 1 - Pfeiffer 8, Queens 0
Of the eight runs the visiting team posted, two were unearned. The Falcons scored two in the third, one earned and one unearned, to take a 2-0 lead. Melanie Conklin was strong in the circle for Pfeiffer. Goode opened the game with a single and Alisha Waldrop tried to get something going for Queens in the seventh with a double. Conklin gave up two hits and struck out eight.
Pfeiffer strung together three hits, including a triple from Hannah Jackson, in the fifth inning to bring in two more runs. The Falcons added three runs in the next inning and tacked the eighth run on in the seventh inning. Jester drops to 6-7 and Conklin improves to 4-3.
Game 2 - Pfeiffer 2, Queens 1
Pfeiffer pulled ahead early in the first inning after a Sarah Waylock single scored Conklin. Megan Lathbury opened the fourth inning with a two-base knock for Queens. Waldrop moved Stephanie Supcoe who came in to run for Lathbury, to third with a sacrifice hit. Two batters later Emma Schultz collected her first multi-base hit of the year with a double to drive in the game-scoring run. The Royals ended the inning with the go-ahead run on base.
In the fifth inning Pfeiffer took the lead after Celia Dew reached on an error that scored Conklin. Needing to bring one in to tie and a second to take the win, Goode hit a one-out single and Dodge reached on an error. The winning run was on base. Allison Braswell walked Kaitlyn Cheek before being replaced by Conklin. Conklin struck Jester out for the second out of the inning and Lathbury flied out to end the game.


text:
Honesty is the key when preparing this age group for surgery. School-agers are better able to understand what is told to them than younger children. Give them truthful information. This age often has fears about their bodies being hurt. They also may be confused about anesthesia.
Prepare Yourself First:
Remember that your child can sense your anxiety. Be sure to share your fears and concerns with your child's doctor. Have all of your questions answered before the day of surgery.
Preparing Your Child:
You know your child best. Some children like to hear a lot of information while others just want to hear the basic facts. The following are suggestions of things to talk with your child about before coming to the hospital.
Before Surgery:
1. Tell your child why they are having surgery.
2. Talk about the type of surgery your child will have and where on the body it will be performed.
3. Tell your child that they will be asleep and will not feel anything during surgery.
4. Remind your child that they will not be able to eat or drink anything the morning of surgery.
5. Reassure your child that you will be with them while they are at the hospital.
6. Suggest that your child choose one or two items from home for comfort and to keep them busy.
7. Remind your child about how long they will be in the hospital.
Day of Surgery:
1. Your child will meet medical staff (nurses, doctors, anesthesiologists) specifically trained to care for children.
2. Usually there is time to relax and settle in before going to surgery. An activity room is available for your child to use at this time.
3. A short time before your scheduled surgery your child will be taken to the surgical area (the pre-op area on the 2nd floor). Two adults may be with the patient at this time.
4. You and your child will then meet with several members of the operating staff, including the anesthesiologist.
5. Your child will go with this team to the operating room. A staff member will then guide you to the appropriate waiting area. This is a time to remind your child that you will remain in the hospital, waiting for them to wake up after surgery and be reunited with them in the recovery room.
6. The nursing staff will provide you with information about post-operative care of your child.
If you have any questions or would like more information on helping your child adjust to going to the hospital, please contact the Child Life Department at (727) 767-4323. If you have questions regarding surgery time, please call Pre-Admission Testing at (727) 767-8561 or (800) 456-4543 x78561.
|Pocket Doc Mobile App
|Maps and Locations (Mobile)
|Programs & Services
|For Health Professionals
|For Patients & Families
|Contact Us
|Find a Doctor


text:
So, in my attempt with a 20 g high planted low tech, the plants are all doing better than i thought. After the first fert dose the pygmy chain sword seems to have established itself and sending off runners. And I just planted some corkscrew val. I'm going for a rather simple tank. There are some sword runners I took from my LFS that are planted closer to the other aquarium, so they get hit with extra light. Right now I only have 0.75 wpg, but the one side of the tank is getting hit with combined
Read More
I rescued this one eyed Rosy Barb who was living happily in my tank. After contracting costia twice now, and then pop-eye, I decided to euthanize her. I called my boss to ask how they do it at work, not trusting googles baking soda amounts. She advised as little water as possible and lots of baking soda. I had like 3/4 cup of water and 3 or 4 tbsp of baking soda. After a minute, she was still alive. I went to school for biology and having done many dissection labs, I severed her spinal cord. Next
I just planted a 20G high tank and put in a beautiful piece of gnarly looking wood and some rocks. I'm just waiting for it to cycle, but I've already purchased 10 glowlights that are sitting in another relatively empty tank. I've gone through many a stocking plan.
- was gonna do indonesian theme: betta or gourami, glass catfish, rasboras
- ghost theme: glass catfish, ghost shrimp, glow lights, bristle nose
but then... I wanted to go for more of an Americas theme since
So, I started off with a 10 gallon for goldfish from before I knew what I was doing. Got rid of them. I acquired a 3 gallon nano tank that I used for guppy fry and no I'm going to put a shrimp in. Then, a 15 gallon hospital tank with a double stand. And now I'm getting my 20 gallon display tank I want to put glowlight rasboras and a wild betta in and do a planted set up. The ten gallon is going to be guppies and platys. Their fry will most likely become food for the betta. Oh what an addictive hobby


text:
Made without elastic, these non-binding, non-irritating socks are ideal for men with poor circulation, diabetes, sensitive skin or allergies
(based on 28 reviews)
Ratings Distribution
5 Stars
4 Stars
3 Stars
2 Stars
1 Stars
of respondents would recommend this to a friend.
Best Uses
Reviewed by 28 customers
Sort by
Displaying reviews 1-5
Back to top
Previous | Next »
(5 of 5 customers found this review helpful)
Pretty Tablecloth
By CynBur
from Lakeland, Florida
About Me Midrange Shopper
Comments about Holiday Fitted Tablecloths:
Fits well, but tears VERY easily, I will not buy a Christmas one.
Bottom Line No, I would not recommend this to a friend
Was this review helpful? Yes / No
- You may also flag this review
(2 of 2 customers found this review helpful)
Great for special occasions
By Foy retired
from Weaverville, NC
About Me Budget Shopper
We have 4 of these table cloths with different designs for our small oval table. They are not of the best quality but they are great for different occasions or holliday times. They fit great and spills wipe up easily. I would recommend these but if you want real quality and want to spend a lot more money then don't buy these.
Bottom Line Yes, I would recommend this to a friend
(3 of 4 customers found this review helpful)
I like the color & design. Not quality.
By Catherine
from Houston, Texas
I use this product on my breakfast table every day. Yes, things that are great about it. I would buy this product again. TKS. : )
Okay tablecloth
By Donna In San Diego
from San Diego, CA
I should not have expected much for the price. Pattern looks nicer in the picture. Looks too cheap and I will not use on my table. I also do not like the feel of it. I will probably use it to cover something outside on the balcony where no one can see it.
(1 of 2 customers found this review helpful)
great tablecloth
By cece
from Metolius, OR
this was put on patio table for holidays, it looks cheerful, we had high winds-this stayed put, great. easy to wipe. will purchase more.
If for any reason you are not 100% satisfied with a product, you may return it for a prompt refund.
Not a member yet? Join Today to Receive Immediate Savings!
For Only $9.99 a Year Members Enjoy:
Our Risk Free Guarantee - save less than the $9.99 annual fee and receive a credit to your account for the difference at the end of the year!
Join today when you order and receive 5% off all merchandise from both Carol Wright Gifts® and Dr. Leonard's Healthcare®.
If you save less than the $9.99 annual membership fee, we willcredit your account for the difference at the end of the year no questions asked.
As a Shop Smart Club member, your privileges include exclusive member only notices. All for a low annual fee of $9.99.
Questions? Call us at 1-800-267-5750
2000 - 2015 Carol Wright Gifts - All Rights Reserved.
PO Box 7823, Edison, NJ 08818-7821
Visit our other site: DrLeonards.com
We Gladly Accept
is rated 8.4
stars by Bizrate based on 3195 certified reviews.
Product line
Customer Service
Secure Shopping
Security Assurance


text: The Related Group continues to be active in the Miami real estate market. The Daily Business Review reported last week on Related's recent purchase of the Infinity II property, located at 1300 S. Miami Ave for $18.5 million. The purchase by Related, a company known for developing Brickell's Icon and 500 condo buildings, shows that… Continue Reading


text:
JON CARDINELLI says Schalk Brits should go to the World Cup with the Springboks.
As kick-off approached, Schalk Brits made up his mind. He was going to enjoy the game no matter what. The stakes couldn't have been higher for Saracens in their second consecutive Premiership final, and they would be looking to their South African talisman to provide the necessary spark.
'How could I have been anything but confident in my own ability?' he asks, as if it's the most obvious notion in the world. 'Opportunities to play in a championship game don't come around too often, and you have to enjoy yourself; you have to jol all you can. I never want it to be a case of looking at myself in the mirror afterwards and saying I could have given more. You have to leave it all out on the field. No ifs. No buts.'
By the final whistle, Brits had set Twickenham on fire and Saracens had captured the cup. The praise that followed his Man of the Match performance confirmed his contribution as wholehearted and inspired. Saracens director of rugby Mark McCall described him as 'Superman', but Leicester scrumhalf Ben Youngs was closer to the mark. Youngs said that the Saracens hooker was the difference between the two sides, calling Brits 'phenomenal' and 'a man possessed'.
The word 'possessed' certainly does Brits justice. It's a unique energy that runs through his body; an indomitable attitude and spirit that sets him apart. For the past two seasons, Brits has gone above and beyond the call of front-row duty. He can often be found among the Saracens' backs, that unnatural turn of speed and other-worldly sidestep leaving lesser mortals grasping at a phantom. And as was the case during injury time of that Premiership final, he can be counted on to make tackle after tackle in a pressure situation.
Brits has left his mark on England. Apart from a Premiership winner's medal, he was named one of the tournament's three best players of the 2010-11 season, while his electrifying try against Gloucester in April was voted the finest of the campaign. Writing in his column for The Guardian, Wales defence coach Shaun Edwards included Brits in his Premiership team of the tournament. It was a big compliment and an even bigger statement from somebody involved with a Wales team that will face the Springboks at the World Cup.
It's strange that people are still asking what's next for the versatile player. The answer seems obvious. For Brendan Venter, who remains involved with Saracens even though he quit his director of rugby post last December, Brits deserves a Springbok recall.
'People have called Schalk Brits the best hooker in England. I don't agree with that. He is the best player in England, period. In fact, he is up there with the best in Europe,' Venter says. 'I'd be amazed if you told me you can't find a place for him in a World Cup squad of 30. Few forwards have his skill set and versatility. Besides what he offers you at hooker, he can come on as a blindside flank, or even a centre in emergencies, and break open the game with a moment of magic. Also, people tend to focus on his attacking qualities, but they often forget that he is a defensive giant who can shift the momentum of the match with a big hit. Why would you not want a player with that capacity at your disposal?'
Peter de Villiers has his reasons. Less than a week after Saracens beat Leicester to win the Premiership, De Villiers declared Brits no better than any of the other South African hookers competing in Super Rugby. As usual, the Bok coach struggled in an attempt to qualify what most would recognise as an outrageous statement.
'He is a brilliant player,' offered De Villiers, 'but with the state of the game here, in whose place would you select him when you have John Smit, Bismarck du Plessis, Chiliboy Ralepelle, Adriaan Strauss and Bandise Maku?
'If Schalk had played for us last year, and then played in this country this year, then we would have known. He made the choice of going overseas. He is so unlucky. I believe he can make a difference, but he is playing in a position where we have more than enough depth.'
While De Villiers is right to boast about South Africa's hooking depth, he's wrong about the pecking order. Smit will captain the team at the World Cup, and Du Plessis has made a strong claim for that starting hooker position. The Boks will take a third hooker to New Zealand and if that selection is based on performance rather than political reasons or geographical location, Brits is the obvious choice. As Venter suggests, his versatility can be an asset, and by excelling in the most testing of set-piece conditions he's already shown himself to be a fine scrum and lineout exponent.
'We've been one of the strongest scrums in the Premiership and Schalk fed 11 from 11 lineouts in a major final,' says Venter. 'I think the perception that Schalk is weak at the set piece is flawed. I can't remember him letting the Boks down in this regard. People will always find ways of justifying their perception, even in light of evidence to the contrary.'
Brits admits that many of his technical improvements have been made since he joined Saracens in 2009. Playing alongside Italy prop Carlos Nieto and having a scrum coach like former Bok tighthead Cobus Visagie did wonders for his set-piece game.
'I'm 100kg, so any success I enjoy at scrum time is going to be down to technique rather than brute power,' he says. 'You won't survive in the northern hemisphere if you can't scrum. The referees encourage it, and there are often long, drawn out battles where the dominant team is allowed to push the opposition as much as 20m. It's not like Super Rugby where refs try to speed the game along; there is a real emphasis on the scrum in the northern leagues.'
As his recent performances will show, he's managed to better his scrumming without sacrificing the flair that made him such a standout for the Stormers. Brits argues that up north, you need to employ different styles for different seasons. In the winter months, a slow grinding, territorial game is required because to play expansively would be counter-productive. When the weather is better in the period before and after winter, there are more opportunities to run the ball.
'I think I've developed to the point where I'm comfortable in either style,' he says. 'I'm happy to play it close and pick and drive in winter, but when the weather is favourable, I will have a full go. It also comes down to what the team needs in terms of our game plan and approach.
'What has been great at Saracens is that every player is asked to play to their strengths. There are times when I'm out of position, but in those situations it's for a particular reason. I'm heavily involved in the forward battles at the collisions and set piece, but I also tend to stay deep for the counter-attack, because that's where my other strengths can come into play. Credit must go to Saracens for giving me that kind of freedom. You're encouraged to play within the team structures, but there is still room to express yourself.'
It comes back to Venter's inference that the Springbok selectors are just plain ignorant. Why wouldn't you want this kind of talent at your disposal? Are the Springboks really so well stocked that Brits doesn't deserve a place in the World Cup squad?
How many other players are there in South African, and even world rugby, who are, to requote Youngs, 'possessed'?
'Nobody is ever going to be satisfied with just three Tests,' Brits says, referring to his short stint with the Boks in 2008. 'I've played a lot for the Barbarians; it's the kind of game that's tailor-made for me, but it just can't compare to proper Test rugby. I want to play in the big games where the Boks take on the All Blacks or England. Those are the types of games you live for.
'But I can't tell Peter de Villiers to pick me, that's his decision. All I can do is ensure that I always give of my best. I won't ever stop enjoying myself. I won't ever stop trying.'
– This article first appeared in the July issue of SA Rugby magazine. The August issue will be on sale from Wednesday, 27 July.


text:
Robbie Deans and James Horwill were emphatic in their view that Australia were beaten by a far superior side on the night.
The Blacks progressed to their first World Cup final since 1995 on the back of an inspired performance at Eden Park. They dominated every facet of play, making a prodigiously gifted Wallabies side look decidedly ordinary.
Coach Deans was clear in his assessment of the match, saying: ' In 15 Tests coaching against the All Blacks, that was probably the best I've seen them play. They were brilliant.'
The Wallabies' only points came via two penalties, which spoke volumes about the role the Blacks' defensive effort played in nullifying their opponents' key players, particularly their dangerous outside backs.
This success was built on an immense gainline contest, which Deans pointed to as being the root of their struggles. 'They defended really well. We were never able to get momentum, they were strong in contact and aggressive towards the ball on the ground and that made it really difficult for us.
'We didn't feel the game was out of reach at half-time [New Zealand led 14-6] but we needed more possession to be able to play. Also the All Blacks' work in air was very good and we lacked there.'
Captain James Horwill applauded the effort exerted by his charges in search of the breakthrough that could have given them the lift they needed to chase victory late in the Test. 'We never stopped giving, but they were clinical in what they did and we were beaten fair and square by a better side,' Horwill said.
The Blacks are heavy favourites going into the final against France, whom they beat comprehensively in the pool phase. Talk of France's capacity to defy the odds and produce a magical performance will dominate the media this week, but Deans believes his countrymen will emerge as victors.
'The All Blacks showed tonight that they are hungry and more than capable of winning the final. The core of this side have had three cracks now and that showed in the way they played. Their commitment and intensity was outstanding.'
By Ryan Vrede, at Eden Park.


text:
Call Now! 1-800-498-1750
|FastFloors.com » Vinyl Flooring » Forbo » G3 Marmoleum Prisma (Phased Out) » Spring Dance
|About the Product - Forbo G3 Marmoleum Prisma (Phased Out)
Forbo G3 Marmoleum Prisma (Phased Out) Vinyl Flooring shown in Spring Dance with coverage 9 s/ft, sold by s/yd, width 6.58 inch, thickness 0.1 inch, color yellow, composition vinyl, design sheet, surface smooth, glue down install, 5 year warranty.
An outspoken range of dynamic and soothing designs that transform an ordinary space into an exceptional one, and a unique space into an unforgettable one