text:
The scandal at Veterans Administration hospitals and the indifferent response it has generated from the Obama administration has outraged the public. More than Benghazi, illegal discrimination at the IRS, and spying on the press never did, the mess at the VA is raising questions about President Obama's detached management style as well as giving the public the impression that his second term is sinking slowly into a morass of lame duck incompetence. But while we hope that once the president and VA Secretary Eric Shinseki manage to muster some genuine anger about the situation and begin the process of unraveling the corruption and mistreatment of veterans, there's a broader lesson to be learned here.
We are told that despite the problems that have undermined confidence in them, many veterans get good treatment at VA hospitals. Let's hope that's true, though the notion that the problems were isolated to one institution in Phoenix were quickly dispelled and it's apparent that efforts by corrupt and/or incompetent administrators to game the system at the expense of patients were far more widespread than initially thought. But while no one is proposing to scrap the current system, coming as it does just as ObamaCare began to be rolled out by the federal government, the VA scandal is a reminder that long waits—which in this case led to the deaths of at least 40 veterans—are the hallmark of any inefficient federal bureaucracy. If, as liberals hope, the misnamed Affordable Care Act is the thin edge of the coming wedge of government health care, then what we are seeing now is merely a taste of what is to come as a new era of liberalism begins to flower.
As Rich Lowry wrote earlier this week in Politico Magazine, "the VA is an island of socialism in American health care." It is exactly what many liberals want for everyone else in that it is a single-payer system that purports to provide free care for those in need but, as Lowry notes, they pay for it with long waits that often endanger the lives of the very ill. Nor is it a coincidence that the only avowed socialist in the Senate, Bernie Sanders of Vermont, who chairs the committee overseeing the VA, seems to be the least outraged member of Congress about this disaster.
Though it has been plagued by scandal for many years—a point that presidential candidate Barack Obama seized upon but then promptly forgot about for the first five and a half years of his presidency—the VA system is a political sacred cow which both parties have sought half-heartedly to reform but none have dared question the wisdom of creating a parallel health-care system for veterans.
Even if a growing number of Americans are beginning to wonder about how smart the decision to create an empire of government-run hospitals is, the VA system is a classic example of something that is too big to fail. Too many people are already dependent on it and divesting the government of this problem waiting to happen simply isn't on the table for the foreseeable future.
But if the public doesn't like what it sees in the VA hospitals, it should think long and hard about what this portends for the future of American health care. Liberals confidently predict that we are heading inevitably toward more government involvement in this sector of the economy. Waving the flag of fairness and the need to ensure that all are covered by health insurance and can count on getting the care they require, there is little doubt that ObamaCare is merely one chapter in a long march toward government health care that could, if Obama's Democratic successors are able to get their way, lead to the sort of single-payer system that exists in other democracies such as Britain and Canada. Those systems have their virtues but they also have their problems. And the chief of them is a scheme that basically rations care and requires those with serious problems to endure long waits for operations or special procedures.
That's something that the left says it can live with, but if Americans are angry about 40 veterans being left to die because of an inefficient and corrupt socialist health-care plan created just for them, what does the public think will happen if we move from an already disastrous ObamaCare rollout to something far more ambitious?
The VA isn't going anywhere, but a scandal that may do more damage to the Obama presidency than he could have imagined is more than just an example of the incompetence of his appointees and his inability to manage them. It is a prequel of the future of American health care if resurgent liberalism gets its way.


text:
School Bus Safety
The safe and proper transportation of students on school busses is of significant importance to all parties concerned. The conduct of students whether waiting for transportation, or while being transported, should be the same conduct as expected of students while in class. We will not tolerate any behavior that prevents our drivers from carrying out their responsibilities; or that intimidates others; or that prevents fellow passengers from having a safe ride to and from school.
Rules of Conduct
The driver is in full charge of the bus and pupils. Pupils must obey requests of the driver promptly and willingly. Such requests may include, but are not limited to:
A. Specific seat assignments
B. Students assistance in keeping the bus clean
C. Requiring students to maintain unobstructed aisles
D. Maintaining proper conduct of students
Students Loading and Unloading:
A. Enter bus with least possible confusion.
B. If necessary to cross the road:
1. Cross 10 feet in front of bus.
2. Wait at the front of bus for driver's signal before crossing traffic lane.
C. Remain on the sidewalk (back from curb) until bus comes to a complete stop.
D. No fighting, harassment, pushing, shoving, cutting in line.
E. Do not hitch rides on rear bumper.
F. Student must be on time and should load and unload the bus only at assigned school and home bus stops.
G. Students will identify themselves (name and address) if asked to do so by bus driver or any district employee.
H. Students will ride their assigned bus route.
Riding the Bus:
A. Follow driver's requests promptly.
B. Go directly to an available seat and remain seated; facing forward.
C. Keep your hands, feet, and all other objects to yourself.
D. No profane or inappropriate language or gestures. No harassment of any kind.
E. No destruction of any property. Restitution must be paid and charges may be filed.
F. No weapons of any kind will be allowed on a bus.
G. Carry-on items will be limited to those items that can be held on rider's lap.
H. Food or drink will be allowed only with permission from the driver.
I. No yelling, screaming, or loud talking on the bus.
J. Any other misbehavior or disruption will not be tolerated.
Bus Zones
There are eight bus zones in the Idaho Falls School. Please become familiar with your zone so you'll know whether you're affected by road closures, late buses or other problems during bad weather.
View all bus zones.
ZONE ONE – "The Far West"
This zone is everything west of N 65th W and S 65th W (aka Cinder Butte Rd.) in our district. 65th W is usually the point along the Arco Hwy that the road is closed in bad weather.
- Students that live on 65th W are in this zone.
- Schools affected: Westside, ERJH, & SHS and a small part of Fox Hollow.
ZONE TWO – "Osgood Area"
Starting at W 17th N & N 26th W, this zone goes west along W 17th N (Airway Rd.) to N 65th W and then north to the Jefferson County Line and then east in Interstate 15 and south to W 33rd N and then along the airport back to the starting point.
- Students that live on W 17th N and in the Rosewood area are included in this zone.
- Schools affected: Westside, ERJH, & SHS
ZONE THREE - "Rural Fox Hollow area"
This zone covers most of the rural Fox Hollow boundary. Starting on W 17th S (Mill Rd.) and Newman Dr. this zone goes west to S 65th W and then south to W 49th S (Peterson Rd.) and then west to the river and north to the starting point.
- Students that live on W 17th S are in this zone.
- Schools affected: Fox Hollow, ERJH & SHS and a small part of Westside.
ZONE FOUR – W. Broadway, Sunset Trl. Ct.
Starting at W 17th S and S 35th W then west to 65th W then north to W 17th N then east to N 35th W (Osgood Rd.) then south along 35th W to the starting point.
- This zone would include Romantica Dr. & Francisca Ln.
- This does NOT include the Village
- Schools affected: Westside, ERJH & SHS.
ZONE FIVE – "The Deep South"
This zone is everything in our district west of the river and south of W 65th S (York Rd.).
- Students that live on York Rd. are in this zone.
- Schools affected: Longfellow, Sunnyside, TVJH, SHS, & IFHS
ZONE SIX – "The Mid-South"
This zone is everything west of the river in between W 49th S (Township) and W 65th S all the way to the east boundary.
- Students that live on W 49th S are in this zone. Also includes Gem Lake.
- Schools affected: Longfellow, Sunnyside, TVJH, SHS, & IFHS
ZONE SEVEN – Sage Lakes Area
This zone is everything in our district east of the river and north of 33rd N.
- Schools affected: Temple View, ERJH, & SHS
ZONE EIGHT – Urban I.F.
This zone is the rest of the district, mostly the in-town area.

subset: commoncrawl


text:
Heritage Sites
Many of the world's most ancient wonders can be found in Indonesia. From sacred temples to palace ruins, from prehistoric remains to living traditions, visitors from around the world come to Indonesia, attracted by its unique and diverse cultures and vibrant heritage.
Whether you take the opportunity to see traditional batik cloths being made, experience centuries old customs and festivities with a visit to a traditional village, or soak up some history in one of Indonesia's many museums – the list of heritage attractions appears endless.
Batu Basurek
Batu Basurek is a stone with inscriptions in the old Palava script of India, bearing the legend of Adityawarman in the year 1347. Literally, "Batu Basurek" itself means "The Written Stone". The stone's 25 cm wide, 80 cm high, and 10 cm thick. Erected above King Adityawarman's resting place centuries ago, this stone was rediscovered in December 16th, 1880. The inscription told about Adityawarman's heritages. Due to his services to...
Location: Sumatra » West Sumatra » Kab. Tanah Datar
Galang Island
"Good bye…, Galang Camp" This is the caption written on one of the pictures found at the Museum of Humanity on Galang Island,located south of Batam, in the Riau Islands province. The sentence is very succinct, embedding the desperate struggle for human survival. On the picture one can see people smiling, waving goodbye to the island where...
Location: Sumatra » Riau Archipelago » Kota Batam
Japanese Bunker
The Japanese bunker in the town of Bukittinggi was built by Indonesians under forced labor for the Japanese soldiers who occupied Indonesia from 1942 to 1945. This 1,470 meter long underground bunker is 40 meters below Ngarai Sianok (Sianok canyon). There are 21 tunnels in the bunker which were used to store ammunition, as residences, meeting rooms, the Romusha (forced labourer) dining room, kitchen, prison, hearing room, torture room, espionage...
Location: Sumatra » West Sumatra
The Tomb of Raja Ali Haji
The tomb of Raja Ali Haji is situated on Penyengat Indera Sakti Island, Kepulauan Riau province. It is the tomb of a famous leader not only in this province, but also in other parts of Indonesia. This island is synonymous with the great poet. For the local Malay, particularly those living on Malacca peninsula, he is a great hero who is respected and honored. His full name is Raja Ali al-Hajj ibni Raja Ahmad al-Hajj ibni Raja Haji...
Location: Sumatra » Riau Archipelago » Kota Batam, Kab. Bintan
Museum Sultan Mahmud Badaruddin II
Take a trip back in time and explore the history of Palembang by stepping into the Sultan Mahmud Badaruddin II Museum (SMB II). Not only is the museum rich in its collections, but the building itself is a historical legacy, as it is a monument of the golden age of the Palembang Sultanate.Located on the riverbank of the Musi, the museum exhibits various collections ranging from archeology, ethnography, biology, arts and especially numismatics, the...
Location: Sumatra » South Sumatra » Kota Palembang
Sultan Riau Mosque
Sultan Riau Grand Mosque is a famous historical tourist site on Penyengat Island, Tanjung Pinang, Kepulauan Riau province. This mosque was built when the island was the residence of Engku Puteri Raja Hamidah, wife of the Riau ruler, Sultan Mahmudsyah (1761—1812). Initially, this mosque was a simple wooden building with brick floors and about 6 meter tall towers.Sultan Abdurrahman then invited participation from his people to...
Location: Sumatra » Riau Archipelago » Kota Tanjung Pinang
South Sumatra Museum
The South Sumatra Museum consists of two smaller museums, Balaputera Dewa and Sriwijaya. This museum is more popularly known as Balaputera Dewa Museum. Balaputera Dewa Museum is a public museum which stores and maintains historical and cultural objects. Balaputra Dewa is the name of a Sriwijaya king. This 23,565 square meter (5.8 acres) museum has 3,715 collections consisting 16 geological, 26 biological, 2,073 ethnographical, 87 archaeological,...
Location: Sumatra » South Sumatra » Kota Palembang
Kamaro Island:Festive Cap Go Meh Celebrations
Ever since the 9th century when the ancient kingdom of Srivijaya became a thriving trading power and an epicenter for Buddhist learnings, Chinese merchants came to trade in Palembang and monks stayed here to study Sanskrit before proceeding to India, or on their journey home from India. Many settled in the city so that through the centuries the growing Chinese population, its culture and history became an inseparable part of the city of...
Location: Sumatra » South Sumatra » Kota Palembang


text:
This story has been reproduced from today's media. It does not necessarily represent the position of Liverpool Football Club.
Negotiations over Karim Benzema's proposed contract extension with Real Madrid have hit a stumbling block, giving Liverpool; Arsenal and Manchester United new hope of signing the striker.
Spanish sources claim that Benzema has rebuffed a £5.5million per-year offer, and will instead hold-out for a colossal£7m deal.
It is thought the Frenchman is exploiting his highly coveted status to negotiate an improved contract with the reigning Champions League holders.
Benzema clearly has no problems with displaying his ability on the world stage - three goals in as many games for Didier Deschamps's France has added to his already considerable £40m price-tag.
Madrid chiefs failure to tie Benzema to a contract extension has left them vulnerable to his ultimatum.
And with the financial might of PSG, Manchester United and Arsenal monitoring the situation, Real may have no choice but to submit to the 26-year-old's demands.The forward has enjoyed a productive season with the Madrid club, helping them to claim a first Champions League trophy since the triumph of 2002.
But despite netting 17 league goals, with a further nine assists to boot, manager Carlo Ancelotti may decide that cashing in on the French international would constitute better business.
Source: Daily Express
This story has been reproduced from today's media. It does not necessarily represent the position of Liverpool Football Club.
Tagged: benzema , karim benzema
Submit your views in the box below. Alternatively, you can debate these issues with fellow fans on our Message Boards or blog about them on The Kop
The views expressed here are not those of Liverpool Football Club (read more)


text:
Lewis Labs International, Brewer's Yeast, 32 oz (908 g) (Discontinued Item)
brewers yeast
Posted by Reviewer2589983 on Feb 19, 2011
this was advertised to be the only good tasting Brewers Yeast. Personally I think it tastes horrible. Too horrible to consume.
Was this review helpful to you?
Report Abuse
Note: iHerb does not imply any medical claims from this review. Disclaimer.


text:
ELCA Bishop Asked to Speak Out on Church Burnings
CHICAGO (ELCA) -- The Rev. H. George Anderson, presiding bishop of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, should write a pastoral letter to all congregations of the church on the subject of the African American churches that burned this year, according to an action taken by the steering committee of the ELCA's Commission for Multicultural Ministries.
The committee, meeting here Oct. 11-12, also urged the bishop to be alert to an opportunity to hold a press conference "denouncing these despicable acts of vandalism and burnings." The action specified that "a visible presence of people of color and language other than English" take part in the event.
Background information prepared by staff informed the committee that the ELCA has been active through the National Council of Churches of Christ in a nationwide campaign "to end racially motivated burnings of churches and to restore those churches that have been destroyed."
In June the ELCA sent a "Disaster-gram" fund-raiser to all ELCA congregations. In that form Anderson called the church "to action concerning the continued fire-bombing of African American churches" and asked them to respond with financial assistance for the NCCC's effort.
Anderson asked members of the ELCA "to share his outrage at the situation and support the importance of an ecumenical coordinated response." He asked for prayer "that the people of our nation will reject such hatred and injustice, and respond with strong moral and legal support."
The background paper said the "vicious attacks' present the ELCA with "an excellent opportunity to speak out in solidarity with all God's people." It said the Lutheran church historically has not been "outspoken on issues affecting, particularly, people of color."
Erik Phelps, a committee member from Eau Claire, Wis., cited instances of desecration of American Indian worship sites and said, "This is happening in the context of freedom of religion for people of color."
The Rev. Frederick E.N. Rajan, director of the commission, said, "The ELCA responded immediately, programmatically and ecumenically. I am proud of that leadership. What is missing is passion from on high. The focus on what has happened should remind leaders to stand up and speak forcefully."
In a separate action the committee voted to call upon the ELCA to make public its disapproval of the desecration of American Indian/Alaska Native sacred sites and instructed the commission to develop a position statement "decrying this practice" for consideration at its next meeting.
For information contact: Ann Hafften, Dir., ELCA News Service,
(312) 380-2958 or email@example.com; Frank Imhoff, Assoc. Dir.,
(312) 380-2955 or email@example.com


text:
Stock Number: ES478542
Manufactured by AEG
In Stock Available for immediate despatch
Rated 5 out of
This part is compatible with AEG FAV60870M Dishwashers
Not what you're looking for? See all parts for your appliance.
You can also check compatiblity with other AEG Dishwashers
Dishwasher Soap Dispenser Assembly
If the soap dispenser in your dishwasher isn't functioning properly don't ditch the appliance; just replace the soap assembly. This replacement part could save you loads over buying a new appliance.
It's a genuine spare part and made to fit select AEG, Arthur Martin, Electrolux, Faure, Firenzi, Husqvarna, John Lewis, Juno, Matura, Privileg, Rosenlew, Seppelfricke, Tricity Bendix and Zanussi dishwashers.
Please check that this is the right part for your model by checking the list of appliances before purchase.
This video should help with fitting this part. However, the exact layout and fitting technique may differ for your make and model.
Be safe - always unplug any appliance from the electricity supply before carrying out any work on it.
If you are in any doubt contact a qualified repairer.
works as it says 17 April 2015
By - essex
Dishwasher fixed! 19 January 2015
By - West Sussex
Usual good service 13 January 2015
By - Tyneside
Q My AEG favorit dishwasher needs a new detergent dispenser.It is a semi integrated model so it has a wooden decor panel. How do I remove,if necessary, withot damaging the washer 1 Answer
By - Yorkshire - 04 December 2014
By 05 December 2014-
Q how do you fit D/washer dispenser for tricity bendix dh103 1 Answer
By - Suttoncolfield - 04 January 2014
By 06 January 2014-
Q Is there a video to assist in changing a Zanussi Soap Dispenser 1 Answer
By - Peterborough - 04 January 2014
By 06 January 2014-
Q How do I replace the detergent dispenser on an AEG 50750 VI diswasher 1 Answer
By - East Grinstead, West Suss - 14 November 2010
By 16 November 2010-
Q How do I change the detergent dispenser in an AEG FAV50860 dishwasher? 1 Answer
By - Winchester - 29 September 2010
By 30 September 2010-


text:
Arts & Crafts Toy Reviews
Browse our reviews of Arts & Crafts Toys for your artistic child, these toys will help them express their artistic talents. TTPM is the source for toy reviews.
- Trending
- New Review
- Special Needs
- Video Review
Paisleys Coloring For Everyone
from Skyhorse Publishing
Paisleys: Coloring for Everyone from Skyhorse Publishing features 46 intricate paisley designs for adults to color.
Mandalas Coloring For Artists
from Skyhorse Publishing
Mandalas: Coloring for Artists from Skyhorse Publishing features 46 intricate mandala designs for adults to color.
Gone Fishing Make Your Own Fishing Game
from Seedling
Seedling's Gone Fishing Make Your Own Fishing Game lets kids paint and create their own wooden fish and fishing pole, then play a game.
The Great Adventure Kit
from Seedling
The Great Adventure Kit is a crafty kit that includes a canvas satchel, compass, whistle, colored pencils, journal, and much more for outdoor exploring fun.
Invent Your Own Insects
from Seedling
The Invent Your Own Insects Set is a DIY kit that enables kids to create one-of-a-kind original insects with the materials provided.
Take 'N' Play Magnetic Mix & Match Little Cuties
from Patch Products
Dress up adorable pets at the playground with cute accessories in the Little Cuties Magnetic Playset from Patch Products. This set comes with a magnetic tin case which, when opened, houses its own…
Pom-Pom Pals Pets
from Silver Dolphin Books
Use the yarn and included supplies to make Pom-Pom Pals Pets with this kit from Silver Dolphin Books.
Make Your Own Puzzles
from MindWare
Make Your Own Puzzles includes everything needed to make 10 mini personalized keepsake puzzles.
Classic Disney Crochet
from Thunder Bay Press
Classic Disney Crochet includes a book with 12 patterns to crochet Classic Disney characters and materials to complete two projects--Mickey and Donald--from the book. The materials included are:…
Shrink & Link Jewelry
from Klutz
Shrink & Link Jewelry provides kids with materials, traceable designs, and step-by-step instructions for over 50 different shrink art jewelry projects.


text:
News, trends and ideas we're tracking today.
Posts filtered on Tag
Lawyer urges embattled Galveston County District Clerk to resign
Pressure is mounting on Galveston County District Clerk Jason Murray to resign, according to the Galveston County Daily News. Greg Enos, a Webster lawyer who practices in Harris and Galveston Counties, called for Murray's resignation Friday in the newsletter his firm sends to about 800 lawyers, The Daily News said. He said he sent out […] [Read More]


text:
It was a tough winter across the state, and for many rural Minnesota school districts that resulted in lots of weather cancellations.
The words "snow day" may be one of the sweetest combinations any student can hear, but they cause major headaches for school administrators. During this year's tough winter, many rural Minnesota school districts repeatedly cancelled school.
Now some school officials worry that all those closures could hurt student scores on the Minnesota Comprehensive Assessment tests in April and May. That's particularly the case for school administrators in rural western Minnesota, whose districts -- like many in Minnesota -- cover hundreds of square miles.


text:
|Photo by Joseph Marzullo/WENN
7. "Who Can I Turn To (When Nobody Needs Me)"
Leslie Bricusse and Anthony Newley had a hit with (several singers' recordings of) their song "What Kind Of Fool Am I?" from their hit show Stop The World – I Want To Get Off. Although their subsequent musical, The Roar of the Greasepaint – The Smell of the Crowd, was less well received, the success of Tony Bennett's recording of that show's big ballad, "Who Can I Turn To (When Nobody Needs Me)," contributed to the piece eking out a decent run on Broadway.
|Previous 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 Next


text:
This major is a good fit if you can see yourself:
Your first year, you will learn communication skills with course work in writing and public speaking. You will also take principles of chemistry, science of plants and geology. More advanced major courses include biology, physics of soil fertility, soil ecosystem, soil biology and environmental soil chemistry. See the four-year plan.


text:
Timberland Kids Earthkeepers® Spruce Meadow Girl's Tall Boot Waterproof (Infant/Toddler)SKU: #8321633
Product Information
- Spruce up your little one's winter collection with these comfy, yet stylish boots!
- Waterproof leather and suede upper and waterproof seam-sealed construction delivers effective weather protection.
- Full side zipper closure for easy on and off.
- Toggle accents at outside.
- 100% recycled PET lining for climate control and breathability.
- "Does it fit?" sockliner allows for a sure fit.
- OrthoLite® footbed for added comfort.
- Flexible, lightweight non-marking rubber outsole provides traction and is made of 15% recycled rubber.
- Imported.
- Measurements:
- Weight: 7 oz
- Circumference: 9 1⁄2 in
- Shaft: 7 in
- Product measurements were taken using size 9 Toddler, width M. Please note that measurements may vary by size.


text:
Pep Fujas and K2 release Remix edit from WE
February 14, 2013
Pep Fujas is no stranger to gnarly lines in AK and BC. Check out Pep's PBP Remix from WE on the K2 Skis Vimeo channel. #WEski
Be sure to check out K2 Skeeze website to see more remix edits from WE!


text:
CUYAHOGA FALLS -- A 59-year-old man is dead after he was hit by a truck in Cuyahoga Falls Friday just before 6 p.m.
According to police, the man was struck in the roadway at Bailey Road and Northmoreland Boulevard by a Ford F-150 pickup truck.
The man was taken to Akron City Hospital by Cuyahoga Falls Fire Department paramedics, but he was pronounced dead at the hospital about 6:30 p.m.
The driver of the pickup truck, a 43-year-old man, was not hurt.
The accident remains under investigation by the Summit County Metro Crash Team and the Summit County medical examiner's office, according to police.


text:
Finally, after six years of marriage the Archduke Franz Karl and his wife, the Archduchess Sophie -neé Princess of Bavaria- got to have a little baby boy named Franz Joseph (1830-1916). Nearly two years after the birth of this baby, the Archduchess Sophie gave birth to another son. The exact day was July 6th, 1832, the boy received the named of Ferdinand Maximilian Joseph -he was named after his paternal uncle, future Ferdinand I, and his second name was in honor of his maternal grandfather, the Bavarian King Maximilian I-. Not much time after, the ill fated Duke of Reichstadt -son of Napoleon I- died of tuberculosis, when the Archduchess knew about his death, she fainted. Her character changed altogether after that day, she became cold, ambitious and quite dominant.
The problem was that people started spreading rumours that the little Archduke Maximilian was actually son of the Duke of Reichstadt, he was very close to the Archduchess Sophie, who was devasted by the death of her lover. But really there are not proofs to prove the claims, in fact, there were also -baseless- rumours about the paternity of the Archduke Franz Joseph, many claimed that his real father was the Prince Gustav Vasa.
The parents of the Archduke:
The alleged father of the Archduke:
Deffinitively, among all the children of the Archduchess Sophie, Maximilian was his favorite. Franz Joseph was intelligent and a disciplined student, but Maximilian wasn't as disciplined as his eldest brother -but was as intelligent as Franz-, the Archduchess loved him so much anyways. Maximilian inherited of his mother the Wittelsbach character that made him a melancholic, idealisitc and dreamy boy, totally different to Franz Joseph who inherited the Habsburg character, he was disciplined, pragmatic and not much imaginative. But not only the proud mother, but also Maximilian's maternal grandmother adored the little boy.
Since an early age the little Archduke had a fragile health that made him to stay a few times with his Bavarian family. The little boy was a great lover of nature and botany, this love remained until the end of Maximilian's life.
Little Maximilian with his brothers, Franz Joseph and Karl Ludwig:
But the Archduchess and Archduke had more children after Maximilian, the new kids were: Archduke Karl Ludwig (1833-1896), Archduchess Maria Anna (1835-1840), stillborn son (October 24th, 1840) and Archduke Ludwig Viktor (1842-1919).
Maximilian was quite close to his brothers Franz Joseph and Karl Ludwig, mainly with the first one.
Maximilian's family suffered a great loss after the death of the only daughter of the family, the little Archduchess Maria Anna who suffered epilepsy. The death of the girl devasted her mother, and her sorrow possibly affected the son that she was expecting, who died just a few hours after his birth. Two years after this tragedy, the Archduchess gave birth to another baby, Ludwig Viktor who conforted the Archduchess of her two losses.
Maximilian and his two closer brothers years after:
Maximilian and his brother Franz Joseph remained close until their youth.
Time after the death of the Emperor Francis I, he was succeeded by his son Ferdinand I, but he had mental problems and didn't have children, so Metternich ordered to educate the Archduke Franz Joseph to take the Austrian throne after the death of his uncle.
The Revolutions of 1848 made the Prince Schwarzenberg to set up the dictatorship and convinced Ferdinand I to abdicate in favor of the Archduke Franz Joseph (December 2nd, 1848) who was 18 years old.
The new Emperor:
Apparently the change of status of the former Archduke Franz Joseph wouldn't make any difference between he and his brothers, but the excellent relationship between he and Maximilian started to getting damaged.
Maximilian was a popular young man, with an attractive personality, now he was the heir of the Austrian Crown -Franz Joseph was still unmarried-, but the Archduke perfectly understood that his possibilities on becoming Emperor were quite limited. Franz Joseph was still young and was totally reasonable to think that he would marry later and new Archdukes would born and they would relegate their uncle Maximilian. And even considering that Franz Joseph would not have a son, Maximilian would have to wait a very long time to have a chance to get the Crown over his head, that was frustrating for him.
But in the other hand, Franz Joseph was aware that his brother Maximilian was a popular man, so he started feeling jealous of him. He feared that his younger brother could betray him to get the Austrian throne for himself. After that, the relationship between both brothers became cold.
That made Maximilian to get closer to his younger brother, Karl Ludwig. Their friendship would remain until the death of Maximilian years after.
The new favorite brother of Maximilian:
But not much time after, at 1851, the 19 year old Maximilian met a lovely young lady, the Countess Paula von Linden. She was daugther of the ambassador of Würtemberg. Young Maximilian used to dance with this woman always at the balls celebrated in the Imperial Court at Vienna, to celebrate the Carnival.
Maximilian as much other Royal Men had several affairs before with actresses, but when he saw Paula at first time, he found her totally different to the other women that he met before, she seemed innocent and pure.
The problem was that von Linden was just a Countess and all the Imperial family of Austria disapproved the relationship between she and the Archduke who was fascinated by the young lady. The Archduchess Sophie wanted a Princess from a Royal House as wife of his adored son not just a Countess.
But Franz Joseph -possibly influenced by his mother, the Archduchess Sophie- sent to the King of Würtemberg a request to remove the ambassador and to send him and his family far from Vienna. At the same time, Maximilian was sent far away in a vessel to the Spanish and Portuguese courts, the Archduchess Sophie expected that his son would find an adequate wife there.
Paula and her family left Vienna and time after, she married the Count Bülow. Maximilian soon met another young woman that made him to forget Paula.
Countess Paula:
Maximilian joined to the Austrian Navy since an early age, the sea became one of the greatest passions of the young Archduke. But during his service at the Navy, the vessel where Maximilian was travelling stopped in Portugal; there he visited a relative, her name was Maria Amalia of Portugal. That visit was in the first days of the year 1852.
This young lady was the only daughter of Pedro I of Brazil and IV of Portugal and his second wife, Amalia of Beauharnais. Since the death of Maria Amalia's father, she lived with her widow mother in Portugal.
Maria Amalia of Braganza was described as a very beautiful and intelligent young lady, she could draw, paint and play the piano very well, she also could spoke several languages.
When Maximilian saw her, he immediately fall in love. Both decided to marry and were engaged. The new of Maximilian's engagement wasn't received with pleasantness by the Austrian Imperial family, except for the Archduchess Sophie. Two reasons surely made her to approve the engagement: 1) Sophie was half sister of Maria Amalia's grandmother, and 2) Maria Amalia, unlike Paula von Linden, was a real Princess that belonged to a Royal Family.
The engagement wasn't made official then, it was only known by Maximilian's family and Maria Amalia's mother, who was pleased by the idea too.
Not much time after, in february, Maria Amalia contracted scarlett fever. The time passed and she didn't recover, instead of this, she developed persistent cough that was a symptom or tuberculosis.
On August, the Princess and her mother decided to move to Madeira, it was known to be an excellent place to recover the health. Unhappily for Maria Amalia, she didn't recover and finally died on February 1853, she was just 21 years old.
Maximilian was very sad for the early death of his fiancée. He would never forget her and kept a ring with some hair of his adored Maria Amalia. She was deffinitively Maximilian's greatest love.
The ill fated young fiancée:
When Maximilian reached the age of 22 years old -1854- and was appointed Commander-in-Chief of the Austrian Navy, in German: "Kaiserliche und Königliche Kriegsmarine". The sea power had a little priority for the Austrian foreign politic, despite this, the young Archduke did a great job trying to improve the organization of the Austrian Navy, among all he did, we find many reforms to modernise the naval forces as well as the creation of the naval ports at Trieste and Pola.
Maximilian as a great lover of science also did many scientific expeditions (years 1857-1859) on his famous frigate SMS Novara, this ship became the first Austrian warship to circumnavigate the globe.
Maximilian the same year he became Comander in Chief of the Austrian Navy:
But Maximilian's activities also included the representation of Austria in other European Courts, taking the responsibility of representing his eldest brother, the Emperor Franz Joseph.
On the year 1856, Maximilian's schedule included a visit to the Emperor Napoleon III at France. Maximilian was a critical and skeptical young Archduke, so the first he did, according to the reports that he sent to his Imperial brother, was to critizice the French Court as well as important people of the French Empire. He compared the French Court to the Austrian one, that was ruled by the Spanish style of court.
He praised the beauty of the French Empress, Eugenie of Montijo. At first he took a reserved attitude towards the French Imperial Couple but at least, they got to have a good realtionship.
The Archduke was quite busy there going to all the events that were made in France in honor of the foreign guest among them, some theatrical representations. He also spent much time with the Imperial French couple knowing their political position at the events of the time. After a time with them, he went to continue his trip, this time to visit the Belgian Court.
The French Imperial Family and their court years later:
Maximilian went to visit the King Leopold of Belgium and his family. He was received there by the Belgian Royal Family, is quite interesing to notice that Maximilian talks about Leopold I, his sons and his daughter in law, Marie Henriette, Duchess of Brabante but doesn't mention one person: the 16 years old Princess Charlotte of Belgium.
Since the early death of Leopold I's second wife, the first Queen of Belgium, Louise Marie of Orleans, the young Princess Charlotte took the place of first lady in the Court. Things didn't change at all when her eldest brother, Leopold, Duke of Brabante married the Austrian Archduchess Marie Henriette. Charlotte did all her best to prepare the Belgian Court for the visit of the foreign Imperial visitor.
Leopold and Marie Henriette:
The young Archduke also attended to several events at Belgium that were prepared by him. He described King Leopold as pretentious, wanting to teach him about politics and he got bored of his talks.
But at the same time, the only daughter of King Leopold I was falling in love with Maximilian. Not much time before the young lady rejected two suitors that asked for her hand, but unexpectedly, she was interested in the handsome and intelligent Archduke.
Maximilian wasn't in love with Charlotte, of course, he was surprised by the intelligence and culture of the young girl, as well as her early maturity, but wasn't in love with her.
At least, Maximilian decided to acept the idea of marrying the young Belgian Princess. He perfectly knew that she was among the richest Princesses of Europe at that time, it was an excellent new for he, he always had debts due his bad financial mismanagement. He loved to spend great amounts of money in books and art, but now he was starting to build a dreamlike Castle at Trieste Gulf named Miramare, the Archduke needed money to pay it, and Charlotte's dowry guaranteed it.
After several bad moments while arranging the exact amount of Charlotte's dowry, they finally got married at July 27th, 1857 in Brussels. Maximilian was 25 years at the day of his wedding and Charlotte was 17.
Charlotte at the same year of her wedding:
But Maximilian's father in law wasn't much pleased with the limited role that his new son in law, and of course, his own daughter were going to play at the Austrian Court. So the old King decided to force Maximilian's brother, the Emperor Franz Joseph to give to Maximilian an important charge. The Austrian Emperor finally accepted to fullfill the request of the Belgian King and appointed his younger brother as Viceroy of Lombardo Veneto. That calmed Leopold I.
The recently married couple:
But the new role wasn't an easy task, the Italians were wanting their Independence of Austria and Franz Joseph knew that.
Maximilian decided to take the risk and he and Charlotte moved to Milan because the Miramare Castle wasn't finished.
But Maximilian was a liberal man and he wanted to govern Lombardo Veneto in a liberal way, he became quite popular among many people but it wasn't enough to make Italians to abandon their ideas of freedom and Independence of Austria.
But Maximilian wasn't totally free to implement the most convenient policies, he was limited by the Austrian government headed by his eldest brother. And after two difficult years as Viceroy (1857-1859), Franz Joseph decided to dismiss Maximilian of his charge, the Emperor was really annoyed by the liberal ideas of his brother, and possibly feared that Maximilian was preparing a coup d'etat against he. The critical political situation made a plan like this possible, but was unlikely that Maximilian was planning to betray his brother. The fear of Maximilian's popularity from Franz Joseph came again one more time.
But the same year of Maximilian's dismission, Austria lost the battle of Solferino and with it, they lost the majority of their Italian provinces, as well as Maximilian lost his opportunity of getting again the charge of Viceroy. That made King Leopold I to get annoyed.
Maximilian and his wife retired from public life and moved to Trieste in a place named il Castelleto, they remained there until the next year, 1860, when Miramare Castle was finished.
Maximilian devoted his time to his passions: poetry, History, literature, art, philosophy and nature. He was really happy living at Miramare, he even got the Lacroma Island -Charlotte payed it for her adored husband with her own money- that was a paradise for the Archduke.
On the same time, Maximilian did a travel to Brazil, it was one of his scientific expeditions; but there are rumours saying that on this trip, the Archduke contracted syphilis with a mistress that he had there. It is quite dubious, there was a similar rumour about Emperor Franz Joseph and Sissi that was also doubtful.
But one thing was sure, the marriage of Maximilian and Charlotte was passing a crisis. We must not forget that Maximilian wasn't in love with his wife, but the lack of children and occupation of this couple caused serious problems to Charlotte, who was the one deeply in love of the couple.
Archduchess Charlotte at that time:
Things seemed not to improve, but a promising opportunity was coming to them...


text:
Thieves stealing mail for identity theft across the United States in July 2014. To prevent mail-identity theft and mailbox vandalism, consider a Mail Boss.
July 1:
- SUFFOLK, Virginia: WAVY.com - Suffolk residents plagued by mailbox vandals
- SUFFOLK, Virginia: Suffolk News-Herald - Mailbox vandals sought
- BERLIN, Pennsylvania: Daily American - Police say Berlin couple stole bras from neighbor's mailbox
- NORTH ANDOVER, Massachusetts: Eagle-Tribune - Mailboxes damaged in North Andover
- WASAU, Wisconsin: WSAW.com - Wausau Woman Pleads Not Guilty in Mail Theft Case
July 2:
- SACRAMENTO, California: Sacramento Bee - Sacramento woman pleads guilty to mail fraud, identity theft
- MERCER ISLAND, Washington: Mercer Island Reporter - Police Blotter | Reported credit card fraud tops $9,000
- COLUMBUS, Ohio: ABC 6 - Update: $1,000 Reward, Teens Damaging Mailboxes on Video
- WEST HOLLYWOOD, California: CBS Los Angeles - Caught On Video: Woman Steals Mail, Packages From WeHo Complex
- WILSONVILLE, Oregon: The Portland Tribune - Police seek clues in apartment mailbox thefts: Wilsonville-area complexes hit by thieves targeting group mail boxes
- MIAMI, FLORIDA: WSVN - Local family beset by mail theft, home invasion in separate incidents
July 3:
- FOND DU LAC, Wisconsin: FDLReporter.com - Mail thefts reported on Fond du Lac's south side
- BUNCOMBE COUNTY, North Carolina: ABC 13 - Stolen School Checks
- YORK COUNTY, South Carolina: WBTV - Vandals destroy more than 50 York Co. mailboxes, street signs
- JACKSONVILLE, Florida: News4Jax.com - Mail theft bust reveals new ID theft devices
July 5:
- HILEAH, Florida: Miami Herald - Hialeah police arrest man accused of stealing mail
July 6:
- LITTLE ROCK, Arkansas: ArkansasMatters.com - Fireworks in Mailbox Shake up Little Rock Neighborhood
July 7:
- PITTSBURGH, Pennsylvania: TribLive - North Braddock woman admits stealing gift cards, cash from mailbox centers
- ALBUQUERQUE, New Mexico: KOB 4 - Culprit in mailbox explosions still on the loose
- MAPLE VALLEY, Washington: Maple Valley Reporter - Multiple thefts reported over Fourth of July weekend | Police Blotter
- FOND DU LAC, Wisconsin: JRN.com - Fond du Lac Mail Thefts Prompt NE Wisconsin Warning
July 9:
- BROWNWOOD, Texas: BigCountryHomepage.com - Brownwood Police Searching for Mailbox Vandals
- BROWNWOOD, Texas: KTSX12 - Authorities investigate mailbox vandalism in Brownwood
- ROSSVILLE, Georgia: NorthwestGeorgiaNews.com - Newspaper vendor arrested for stealing mail at Rossville post office
July 10:
- CHESTERFIELD, Missouri: KMOV.com - Missing mail? You're not alone, Chesterfield Police say
- CHESTERFIELD, Missouri: FOX 2 Now - Is your mailbox a lure for identity theft?
- BELLEVUE, Washington: KIRO 7 – Mickey Mouse among victims of identity thief
July 11:
- SACRAMENTO, California: SFGate.com - Man sentenced to prison for destroying mail boxes
July 13:
- FORESTHILL, California: Auburn Journal - Foresthill man gets prison in mail theft case
July 14:
- SPRINGDALE, Arkansas: NWAHomepage.com - Springdale Police Work with Secret Service to Bust Mail Theft, Check Forgery Ring
- MONTGOMERY COUNTY, Maryland: Gazette.net - Police report exposure case, mail thefts in Olney area: Investigations are continuing
July 15:
- LUFKIN, Texas: KETK - Caught on Cam: Authorities looking for Lufkin mail thief
- DECATUR, Georgia: Decatur Metro - Decatur Police: Mail Theft Suspect Arrested
- DETROIT, Michigan: WFMyNews2.com - Postal Inspectors: Beware Four-Wheeled Felons
- DECATUR, Georgia: Decaturish.com - Decatur Police arrest mail theft suspect
- KINGSTON, Tennessee: KATE - Roane County officials warning residents of multiple occurrences of mail theft
- DECATUR, Georgia: Virginia Highland-Druid Hills Patch - Credit Cards, Driver's License Among Stolen Mail: Police
- KINGSTON, Tennessee: Local8Now.com - Roane County Sheriff's Office warning residents of mail thieves – Roane County Sheriff's Office warning residents of mail thieves
July 16:
- FAYETTEVILLE, Arkansas: NWAOnline.com – Mail Found Dumped Belongs To 16 Fayetteville Addresses
- HUNTLEY, Montana: Billings Gazette – Huntley woman denies possessing stolen mail
- FAYETTEVILLE, Arkansas: 4029TV.com - Police investigate stolen mail in Fayetteville: Mail found in vacant lot
- LANDRUM, South Carolina: FOX Carolina – Mail thefts under investigation in Landrum area
- SEATTLE, Washington: KOMO 4 - North Seattle neighbors fight mail theft with discount deal
- ALPHARETTA, Georgia: WSBTV.com - Police charge two men in mail thefts
July 17:
- BELLEVUE, Washington: Q13 FOX – Police seek man accused of being ringleader of identity theft crew
- SAN ANTONIO, Texas: FOX 29 – Suspect arrested in credit card theft
- WACO, Texas: KXAN - Temple couple plead guilty in widespread mail theft scheme
- SALINAS, California: KCBA 35 - Suspected Mail Thief Arrested in Salinas
- AUSTIN, Texas: The Toronto Sun - Texans plead guilty to stealing more than 50,000 pieces of mail
July 18:
- AUSTIN, Texas: 1560 KHBR – Guilty Pleas In Post Office Burglaries
- AUSTIN, Texas: KSAT 12 - 2 people plead guilty to stealing 50K pieces of mail: Pair stole mail, property from 80 post offices in Texas
July 19:
- SOUTH BAY, California: NBC 4 - Identity Theft Suspects Target Victims Throughout SoCal: The three suspects are due to appear in Torrance Court Monday for their arraignment.
- FORESTHILL, California: Rocklin Today - 57 Year Old Sentenced in Mailbox Destruction Case
July 21:
- AUSTIN, TEXAS: KVUE – Local mailbox thefts under investigation
July 22:
- CLEBURNE, Texas: CBS DFW – Cleburne Police Collect Stolen Mailboxes
July 23:
- FRESNO, California: ABC30.com - Thieves rip open community mailbox in NW Fresno
July 24:
- CAMERON, Texas: The Cameron Herald - Defendants enter guilty pleas in mailbox thefts
- NORTH MIAMI, Florida: WSVN.com - Mail carrier robbed in North Miami by 2 men
- GEORGIA COUNTY, Mississippi: GulfLive.com - Mailbox smashing spree in George County lands 23-year-old Vancleave man in jail
July 25:
- MIAMI, Florida: WBRC 6 - Postal worker robbed by potential identity thieves
- MANCHESTER, Massachusetts: Gloucester Times - Two held in maibox break-ins, mail theft case in Manchester
- YUCAIPA, California: News Mirror - Cory Mount arrested for stolen property and possible mail theft
- BLOOMFIELD, Indiana: Greene County Daily World - Mailbox vandals plague Bloomfield
- AUSTIN, Texas: KEYETV.com – Meth addicts targeting South Austin mailboxes
July 26:
- LIHUE, Hawaii: The Garden Island - Couple reports ballot theft: Kapaa man fears others may have been taken
July 28:
- OMAHA, Nebraska: WOWT 6 - Mailbox Thieves Target Bosnian Family
- BLOOMFIELD, Indiana: WBIW.com - Vandals Targeting Bloomfield Mailboxes
July 30:
- TOPEKA, Kansas: CJOnline.com - Mailboxes vandalized again in county: Vandalism occurred early Wednesday north of Topeka
- CONYERS, Georgia: Rockdale Citizen - Deputy finds stolen checks from Newton County businesses during traffic stop
- DODGE COUNTY, Nebraska: Fremont Tribune - Fuel, mailbox stolen near Hooper
- SAN ANTONIO, Texas: FOX 29 - Thieves steal woman's checks from mailbox
- PENNSAUKEN, New Jersey: NBC Philadelphia - Mailbox Bandit Strikes NJ Apartment Building
July 31:
- MIRAMAR, Florida: WSVN 7 - Postal inspectors offer tips to prevent stolen mail
- TOPEKA, Kansas: KansasFirstNews.com - More mailbox vandalism in Topeka
- GAHANNA, Ohio: This Week Community News - Gahanna: Department fields numerous calls about mailbox vandalism
- CODY, Wyoming: Powell Tribune – A fishy scheme: Woman imprisoned for stealing checks from Postal Service
- ALBUQUERQUE, New Mexico: KOAT 7 - Criminals target cluster mailboxes around Albuquerque: Mail won't come to damaged boxes
- MERCED, California: The Modesto Bee – 1 arrested on suspicion of mail theft


text:
Pearl Cymbal Holders (Boom Arms)
View Single Post
Senior Member
Join Date: Jul 2011
Location: California
Posts: 462
Re: Pearl Cymbal Holders (Boom Arms)
OK, for those who care, I ended up finding what appears to have been the last new Pearl CH-2000 cymbal holder in the US retail channel since the model was discontinued by Pearl. I received it last night, and in a word, "WOW"! As I predicted, I've never seen a better cymbal arm, or stand, for that matter, or anything close to it.. But, it's definitely not for the faint of heart. With counterweight, this bad boy weighs 7.66 lbs. The counterweight itself weighs in at 1.69 lbs. So, with the counterweight removed it is just under 6 lbs. Its versatility is unsurpassed, and I seriously can't find a position that I want that it can NOT achieve. Over other cymbals, around other cymbals, under other cymbals, you name it. Oh wait, it won't go THROUGH other cymbals.... darn!
Here are the details on this boom arm, for those of you in Europe that might still be lucky enough to get their hands on one. Starting from the top of the piece:
1) Gearless Uni-lock tilter with Wing Loc topper, 8mm,. Tillter itself can be removed and replaced in multiple positions to accommodate a plethora of configurations, including standard and inverted mounting of typical cymbals, Chinas and gongs. You can also leave it off and mount percussion items instead. You can also acquire additional tilters if you want to use it for a combo of cymbals and/or effects. Nice touch!
2) Top boom rod is 17" long (not including tilter), and is knurled from end to end, so for once there is no limit to angle positions that are limited on all other hideaway designs. For example, I have several Tama and Gibraltar hideaway designs, and the problem with all of these is that you simply cannot position the boom rod at anything less than about 35 degrees from vertical. Why? Because the hideaway design is such that the rod has to be positioned on-center of the tube (so it can slide into the tube for straight applications). This makes it so that if you try to position the boom rod angle less than 35 degrees the rod hits the outside of the downtube itself. And, if you try to extend the boom rod all the way out to prevent it from contacting the downtube, while you can then indeed then rotate the angle wherever you want, because the knurl on the boom rods stop 2" from the end of the rod, the angle adjuster clamp has no knurl to grip onto, and you end up with slippage. Not so with this Pearl unit. They thought this all the way through, and knurled the rod from end to end, so you CAN extend it all the way and get whatever angle you want. Obviously, real drummers were involved with the design. :-) Two memory locks are included for the top boom; one for removable tilter positioing, the other for the boom rod itself at the angle adjuster.
3) Middle boom is 14" long (not including angle adjuster), has its own memory lock, and a removable counter-weight. This means that, not including tilter length, combined with the top boom rod, you can have 31" of boom arm length!
4) Downtube is 15" long (not including angle adjuster), is 7/8" diameter, and also includes it's own memory lock.
If my math is right, this cymbal boom is capable of more than a whopping 46" overall length, not including angle adjuster and tilter lengths, which is unbelievable, and likely enough to route OVER and around other cymbals if you like. That's more than any other boom I know of, including the Gibraltar Ultra Adjust Double Boom. And, because it includes two joints with memory locks, it is MUCH easier to get perfect positioning without having to re-adjust it every time, gig after gig (like you would with ball joints), even if you configure it to go around other items!
Although Pearl discontinued the CH-2000, it was not because of bad design because they use this same assembly on thier new top of the line BC-2030 full cymbal stand, The only difference is that because the CH-2000 is designed for rack clamps, the post is 7/8", whereas on the BC-2030 I believe it is 5/8" to fit into the full stand middle tube. But, this at least shows that they still strongly believe in the design, and that replacement parts are readily available should someone need to take advantage of their new Lifetime Warranty. But, the way this thing is built I can't see it failing in my lifetime!
I don't know why I didn't stick with Pearl all this time. Probably because of price, but to think of all the time and energy I would have saved trying to make things work that inevitable wouldn'tm work, the higher price would have been worth it.
I had plans for two of these simply awesome cymbal holders, but after using just the one, I was able to remove some of the other Mickey Mousing I was doing with other stuff, and now I really may not need the other one I bought that is due to arrive next week! Oh well, I'll try to come up with a way to make use of it, if only because these arms are so beautiful. Too bad Pearl discontinued them. I feel sorry for all the other drummers who never had the opportunity to try one of these! :-) At the very least I will have an extra unused one and save it as a collector's item! ;-)
2011 Mapex Saturn - 8, 10, 12, 14 fl, 16 fl, 22x18
1974 Tama Royalstar - 8,10,12, 13,16 fl, 22x14
View Public Profile
Send a private message to MrLeadFoot
Find all posts by MrLeadFoot


text:
Highlights of the Georgia softball team's extra-inning loss to LSU Saturday night.
April 12, 2014
BATON ROUGE, La. - The No. 13/17 Georgia softball team dropped a 5-4, eight-inning decision to the LSU Tigers in front of a packed house at Tiger Park in Baton Rouge, La., on Saturday, April 12. With the loss, the Bulldogs drop to 35-7 on the year and 9-5 in Southeastern Conference play. LSU is now 23-18 overall and 5-9 in the SEC.
Chelsea Wilkinson took the loss to fall to 21-5 on the year. She came in as relief with one out in the bottom of the sixth inning and threw the final two innings, allowing three runs, two of which were earned, on four hits and three walks. Geri Ann Glasco got the start and threw the first 5.1 innings for Georgia. She allowed two earned runs on one hit and three walks. Baylee Corbello got the win for the Tigers to improve to 12-6 overall. She allowed four runs, three earned, on seven hits and five walks. She also struck out six batters.
The Bulldogs got home runs by Katie Browne and Tina Iosefa, while Paige Wilson went 2-for-4 on the day. Glasco matched her own program record for walks in a game with four.
It didn't take long for the Bulldogs to take the lead against LSU, as Browne, who grew up just outside of Baton Rouge, delivered a towering shot deep over the berm in left field to give Georgia an early 1-0 lead.
Following the solo home run, Glasco and the Georgia defense retired nine of the next 10 batters they faced, allowing Georgia to maintain its lead.
LSU looked poised to score in the bottom of the fifth inning, loading the bases with just one out on three consecutive walks. With the bases loaded, AJ Andrews hit into an inning-ending double play that saw Wilson snag a liner just inches off the ground at short and flip to Bethany Beggs at third for out number three.
Riding the momentum gained by its defense, Georgia added two runs in the top of the sixth to extend its lead to 3-0. After Glasco led off the inning with a walk, Iosefa belted a home run to dead center that made it a 3-0 game. The homer was the second of the weekend for Iosefa and the fourth of her season.
LSU took a 4-3 lead in the bottom of the sixth inning. After a pair of hit batsmen, Georgia turned to Wilkinson in the circle. With one out and runners at first and second, Constance Quinn hit a home run to left center that tied the game up. An infield single and a walk put runners at first and second for pinch hitter Kailey McCasland. With one away, McCasland put the ball into play and reached on a fielding error that allowed the go-ahead run to score. After a two-out intentional walk, Wilkinson got the next batter to fly out to left to end the inning
Down to Georgia's last three outs, Samantha LaZear led off the top of the seventh with a slap hit to shallow left. The ball was bobbled, allowing LaZear to safely move to second. After two quick outs, Kaylee Puailoa came through with an infield single that allowed LaZear to score the tying run after the throw to first sailed wide. Puailoa was called out after trying to move to second on the play, but not before Georgia tied the game up at 4-4.
LSU got a one out single in the bottom of the eighth inning. The runner came home on a walk-off triple into the right field corner that sealed the 5-4 win for the Tigers.
Georgia and LSU will face off tomorrow, April 13, in the rubber game of the series. First pitch is set for 1 p.m., ET.


text:
Ryan Mercer — medalist
(advanced to Class 3A boys state tournament)
Kinsey Browning — 400-meter relay
Kathleen Campbell — high jump
Kelsi Crosson — 400-meter relay, 1600-meter relay
Kendra Crosson — 1600-meter relay
Alicia Finn — discus
Brittany Lashinski — 400-meter relay
Jayci Shelton — 100-meter hurdles, 300-meter hurdles, 1600-meter relay
Suede Shirley — 400-meter relay, 1600-meter relay
Nick Nemir — 300-meter hurdles
Jacinda Morales — 800-meter run, 1600-meter run
Four entered pleas to Judge Glen Harrison during 32nd Judicial District Court this week.
Most former high school football players think they will never play again. However, Texas Alumni Football is changing that, with not one but two alumni football games on Saturday at Mustang Bowl.
It will be Roby vs. Roscoe in the opener of the doubleheader at 4 p.m. That game is followed by Sweetwater vs. Snyder in the nightcap starting at 7:30 p.m.
Texas Alumni Football is also responsible for two other Abilene-area games on Saturday. Aspermont plays Hermleigh on Aspermont's field at 2 p.m., and Stamford squares off with Haskell at Stamford's Bulldog Stadium at 7:30 p.m.
On Thursday, April 28, 2010, the Sweetwater Fire Department and the Sweetwater Police Department will be "fighting" it out for a good cause. They will be having the third Guns and Hoses Basketball Game, benefiting the West Texas Children's Advocacy Center. The game will be at the Sweetwater High School Gym at 7 p.m. and the teams will compete to see who wins this year's game. Last year's winners were the police officers and the first year's winners were the firemen. According to Sweetwater Police Officer Lance Richburg, they are hoping that many will come out to support the cause once again.
The Sweetwater Police Department (SPD) received 45 calls for service, issued no citations and made two arrests on April 20, 2011.
The SPD received 18, 911 calls.
• 100 block of E Ave. C.
Calls for service:
• Aggravated sexual assault of a child — Sweetwater area.
• Terroristic threats — Sweetwater area.
Arrested by SPD:
• Mandy Brock, 26 — Warrants.
• Pete Esquivel, 33 — Driving while intoxicated/escape from custody.
The Nolan County Sheriff's Office (NCSO) had five calls for service, served five civil papers and made three arrests on April 20, 2011.
Funeral services for Mary Alice Henington, 89, of Plainview, are pending at McCoy Funeral Home.
Henington died Friday, April 22, 2011, in Lubbock
Two teams who haven't had much go right for them since the start of district play — Sweetwater and Big Spring — wrap up their seasons at 7 p.m. today in Big Spring with little more than pride at stake.
Sweetwater brings a 1-6 record into today's finale, but the win came over Big Spring, which has yet to claim a victory in its seven district games.
The Mustangs won, 3-2, in Sweetwater on April 5 as Kris Mayes threw his second career no-hitter.
LUBBOCK — After failing to make it to state in his two previous oppor-tunities, the third time was finally a charm for Sweetwater's Ryan Mercer at the Region I-3A golf tournament.
On Thursday, Mercer claimed a state berth as he shot 75 for a 147 total, finishing second among all medalists — just three behind Hunter Wade of Perryton — but with the best two-day score of any medalist not on one of the top two teams.
This year's Class 3A boys state tournament will be held May 12-13 at Austin's Roy Kizer Golf Course.
Four Nolan County area high school basketball play-ers and one Nolan County coach have been given All-Big Country recognition by the Abilene Reporter-News.
Highland's Ryan Dollar was named the Class 1A, Division II girls coach of the year, and Roscoe's Caden Smith was a second-team pick for the All-Big Country boys Super Team.
Highland's Callie Sand-usky and Sweetwater's Alicia Finn were named to the girls second team in Class 1A, Division II and Class 3A, respectively. Also, Highland's Sierra Allen received girls honorable mention in Class 1A, D-II.
HAMLIN — Roscoe's four regional track qualifiers in early May will include a pair of athletes who will compete in mul-tiple events after earning top-four finishes at the recent area track meet.
Caden Smith will com-pete in the Class 1A boys discus and shot put as well as in the 110 hurdles, while Jacinda Morales is going to regionals in the girls 800 and 1600.


text:
You wonder how White House spokespeople keep a straight face: "A USA TODAY review of Obama hires shows that 21 have registered as federal lobbyists, although most have not done so within the past two years. They include White House aide Cecilia Muñoz, who lobbied last year for the National Council of La Raza, and Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack, who lobbied in 2007 for a national teachers union. White House spokeswoman Jennifer Psaki said Obama is following through on his commitment to operate under strict ethical standards."
Marc Ambinder argued that the Republicans should have supported the stimulus, and ever-so helpfully supplies the Democratic spin: "Obama has done everything reasonable, and more, to move toward non-P-partisanship. The overwhelming impression he's leaving for voters is one of reasonableness and accommodation." Actually, he didn't address any of the Republican concerns, although he was pleasant enough in some meetings. And those comparative popularity numbers (Obama's 70% [actually it is in the mid-60s but Ambinder rounds up generously] vs. Congress' 20%) would mean something — if the Republicans were each running against Barack Obama. But they will be running against Nancy Pelosi and the Democrats whose collective favorability rating is, well, 20% or so. But maybe if the bill hadn't been so dreadful Ambinder's analysis might have been compelling.
On to the Senate now where Mitch McConnell's press office makes the point: for all that bipartisan talk out of the White House, Nancy Pelosi stiffed the Republicans and wound up with zero support.
Sen. Bob Corker isn't buying the stimulus bill. "A total waste of money," he calls it.
George Will argues that although the new President is entitled to a measure of deference, "congressional Democrats have turned the 647-page stimulus legislation into an excuse for something that never needs an excuse — an exercise in wretched excess. They have forfeited some of the president's claim to deference." To be clear, the White House has been content to hide behind Nancy Pelosi's skirts so they have, properly speaking, forfeited their own claim to deference.
Of all the things to take umbrage at, the Washington Post goes after the President on his snow closing criticism: "But something, well, rankled, just a bit when this newcomer thumped his chest about 'flinty Chicago toughness' and proclaimed that 'when it comes to the weather, folks in Washington don't seem to be able to handle things.' In fact, Tuesday's ice produced a particularly slippery day yesterday. Mr. Obama can make pronouncements from inside his well-shoveled bubble, but we can report that it was pretty treacherous out there in the real world. School administrators who opted for closure made the right call — this time. To the Obamas, we say: Welcome to Washington, and, hey, you have it easy. At least one parent has the flexibility to work from home." On this one he's right, although I'm sure the local schools could do without the President micro-managing their cold weather policies.
Why do Democrats insist on dressing down in the White House?
George Mitchell has Jimmy Carter's hearty endorsement. Swell. And you can't miss the icy condescension directed toward Hillary Clinton: "I think she'll comply with the policies established by the president." Hey, if Carter hates her that might be another reason to have faith in Clinton. (But realistically it has more to do with years of grudge-holding by Carter for real and imagined slights by Bill.)
John McCormack observes: "Of 11 Democrats who voted against the stimulus, most are considered vulnerable next cycle." So when the MSM calls this a "party line vote," that's not quite right. It was the "no" vote that attracted the other side of the aisle– and specifically those worried that the bill is a dud and the that President's popularity won't help them in 2010.
Jonathan Martin (the lone Politico reporter who covers Republicans as more than a mere distraction in the Age of Obama) hits the nail on the head: "A day after Barack Obama spent over an hour on House Republican turf, he couldn't pry loose a single vote among the GOP for the centerpiece of his economic recovery plan Wednesday. For all Obama's efforts to wield the personal and political power of the presidency, the vote signaled that despite their weakened political state and the popularity of the new president Republicans won't be won over by charm alone."
Okay, this is amusing. Rush Limbaugh writes: "Fifty-three percent of American voters voted for Barack Obama; 46% voted for John McCain, and 1% voted for wackos. Give that 1% to President Obama. Let's say the vote was 54% to 46%. As a way to bring the country together and at the same time determine the most effective way to deal with recessions, under the Obama-Limbaugh Stimulus Plan of 2009: 54% of the $900 billion — $486 billion — will be spent on infrastructure and pork as defined by Mr. Obama and the Democrats; 46% — $414 billion — will be directed toward tax cuts, as determined by me." Aside from the merits (why not have both tax cuts and pork if Democrats insist on the latter?), it does highlight how unwilling the President has been to reach out to Republicans. Which was Limbaugh's point, of course.
Martin Feldstein who actually favors a stimulus plan thinks the current one isn't the right one: "The problem with the current stimulus plan is not that it is too big but that it delivers too little extra employment and income for such a large fiscal deficit. It is worth taking the time to get it right."
The evidence against Blago doesn't seem all that compelling — or complete. But that doesn't slow down David Broder, who is infuriated by his Washington Post colleagues who question just how guilty Blago is. But Broder doesn't need evidence because someone told him at a dinner two years ago that Blago was "the worst ever." Well that seals it, I guess.


text:
Meet Yellowstone Jack!
Hi there, I'm Yellowstone Jack! The only year-round resident at the new Explorer Cabins at Yellowstone. You can find me in each Explorer Cabin and I'm waiting for you to show me around this amazing place called Yellowstone.
Ahhh, Yellowstone... Wonder of the world. My sense of adventure has led me around this vast region for years, and now it's your turn to show me the sights (and smells!).
Take Me on Your Journey into Yellowstone, then Snap a Clever Picture With Me and Upload Me to that "world wide Internet" thing I've been hearing so much about. I'm all about blogging, photo-bombing, and excursions to your favorite social media sites like Instagram, Facebook and Pinterest.
Let's have a good time, but "be careful now" - your photo might even win a contest if you post it with #YellowstoneJack.
By the way, if you borrow me for the day, my short chubby legs and scruffy beard like a soft pillow to lay my head down on at night, so please bring me back to my room at the end of the day.
I'm also for sale at the Front Desk if you'd like to take me home with you.
*Please follow all local, state and federal laws


text:
The Springfield Symphony Orchestra
The Springfield Pops
2010 - 2011
Kevin Rhodes, Music Director and Conductor
Ron Bohmer, Tituss Burgess and Bradley Dean, vocalists
Two weeks earlier, on April 2, in the presence of a meticulously performed program of classical music, a reverent audience honored the SSO with respectful decorum, appreciative applause, and a standing ovation.
Fast forward to April 16, a rainy night, when an SSO Pops concert recaptured music of the notorious Sixties that had an engaged audience tapping their feet, clapping their hands, singing along, caught up in the beat and lyrics – some that could wrench a heart -- and ultimately jumping to their feet to cheer and whistle and clap until their hands were burning hot.
The common denominator of the dissimilar concerts? The mighty Springfield Symphony Orchestra which, under the direction of Kevin Rhodes, can perform the classics as skillfully as renowned orchestras and as a bonus can also swing with a beat, a feat not a lot of classically-trained musicians can do. The secret? My guess: Maestro Rhodes loves music, especially music performed well, and because the SSO musicians trust their leader, they strive to give him what he wants. Nothing can be any flatter than a Pops without a beat – rock, ballad, syncopation, schmaltz, Latin, pelvic thrust – whatever the tune calls for.
Three outstanding vocalists – Ron Bohmer, Tituss Burgess and Bradley Dean – blessed with flexible singing styles, natural responses to a beat, and the ability to enmesh themselves with the lyrics, wowed the audience. If a song was strongly identified with a particular singer, the vocalist did not imitate. Instead of impersonating Sammy Davis, Jr.'s distinct style (For Once In My Life), the singer channeled occasional phrasing while singing his heart out. This was also true for Mack The Knife (Bobby Darrin), an arrangement that escalated in intensity, earning a spontaneous, "Wow!"
The choreography was Sixties inspired, complementing the songs without distracting from the lyrics. The costumer deserves a big thank you for not dressing the trio in identical clothes: each singer's wardrobe suited his personality (oh dear, no pun intended).
There was a costume theme for any who wished to become idealistic flower children. Garlands of flowers on their heads made them easy to spot, including in the orchestra. SSO staff dressed up in fringe and beads. One dude with flowers stuck in his huge Afro, wearing jeans, leather vest, dark glasses, slouched onto the stage, stopped dead in his tracks, and challenged a tittering audience, "WHAT!" The Maestro had arrived. He bounded onto the podium, grabbed a baton, and the joint began to jump – La Bamba – a driving beat, sticks on a block, Rhodes' right leg a backup metronome.
La Bamba (SSO)
Jersey Boys Medley
(Sherry / Big Girls Don't Cry / Can't Take My Eyes Off of You / Oh, What A Night!)
Mack The Knife
It's Not Unusual
Hit The Road Jack
Tequila (SSO)
Unchained Melody
Strangers in The Night
For Once In My Life
Beatles Hit Medley (SSO)
(I Want To Hold Your Hand / She Loves You / Yesterday /)
(Eleanor Rigby / Hey, Jude / Get Back / Yellow Submarine)
Let The Sunshine In
I Heard It Through The Grapevine
Cherry, Cherry
Try A Little Tenderness
Smokey Robinson Medley
(Going To A Go-Go / Tears Of A Clown / Shop Around)
What A Wonderful World
Oh What A Night
The Springfield Symphony Orchestra
The Springfield Pops
2010 - 2011
Saturday, February 12, 2011 at 8:00 PM
Music Director and Conductor
If I'm asked, "How was the Pops?" I will say, "Wonderful!" and thereby hangs a happy tale.
The overture to Gone With The Wind, the Oscar winner that blew the other 1939 nominations out of the water, launched the evening's musical nostalgia. The full-bodied sound of the Springfield Symphony Orchestra – as lush as a lazy day can be in the Deep South for folks served by slaves – evoked the full panorama of the script, from misplaced innocence through the scourge of war into the confusing aftermath of Reconstruction. As conducted by Maestro Kevin Rhodes, the sweeping arrangement was a harbinger of the quality program to follow.
Whoever is responsible for finding and signing the two vocalists deserves a thank you from everyone in the audience. The voices of lovely Sarah Pfisterer (soprano) and handsome Nathaniel Stampley (baritone) were outstanding -- true pitch, clear enunciation, transmitting the correct emotional interpretations. Their singles beguiled; their duets were believable; together, their voices complemented one another. Their freshness never waned.
The evening's anchor was the orchestra, not a dead weight anchor but one filled with musical rhythms. The SSO plays popular music fairly well under guest conductors but under the direction of Kevin Rhodes – a man of/for all music – they shed classical restrictions and became a spectacular Big Band. The beat was there, spontaneity, syncopation and loose-as-a-goose swing. The urge to dance was sublimated into discreet toe tapping.
The arrangements injected new life into the Oscar classics. Pfisterer's All That Jazz swung between impish and naughty. Stampley's Gigi caught the bewilderment of a swain shocked at the metamorphosis of a Parisian school girl into a seductive young woman. Together, the singers soared with the genius of Leonard Bernstein's Tonight (West Side Story) and the exaltation of reciprocated love.
The tribute to composer John Williams, an uplifting instrumental collection of his Oscar winners (Star Wars, Jaws, Superman March, Harry Potter, Raiders March, and the Theme from E.T.) opened Act 2 – rousingly.
Sandwiched between a brisk Chariots of Fire and the prayer of all separated lovers, Unchained Melody, ("I need your love/God speed your love to me") were Rocky Highlights, and let me assure you, Rocky rocked! The final tribute was to Dirty Dancing and (I've Had) The Time of My Life, presented center stage -- definitely not in a corner.
The crowd was on its feet. Beautiful flowers were presented to Ms. Pfisterer but nothing, not even a bachelor button for Mr. Stampley which prompted some pantomime between the Maestro and the Baritone complete with shrugs and laughter. The audience continued clapping. And as if unplanned, but every one of us knew better, there was an encore – the theme from Titanic.
Twas a memorable evening that began with sashaying across a very red carpet to flash bulbs, hoots and hollers, to bathe in memories that music – especially good music -- is adept at bringing back to life.
The Springfield Symphony Orchestra
The Springfield Pops
2010 - 2011
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 4, 2010 at 8:00 PM
Kevin Rhodes, Music Director and Conductor
Children's Chorus of Springfield, Wayne Abercrombie, Director
Springfield Symphony Chorus, Nikki Stoia, Director
Opposite the page of the Traditional Holiday Pops program is a full page Hasbro ad that reads: "The secret to life is regularly taking a few moments to step away from the challenges of everyday living, to enjoy what really counts: spending quality time with loved ones, helping others, taking in a show, or listening to good music. These are the things that nourish our soul and let us soar."
Symphony Hall was packed (so was the parking garage under #91). At the back of the stage hung the huge green wreath topped by a red bow with very long streamers. On the face of the balconies were swags of green rope and red bows. The audience included a marvelous mix of people – young families, sweethearts, new friends, old friends, long-time marrieds holding hands, the spry and the challenged, and children dressed up in holiday finery, their eyes absorbing an occasion whose memories many years from now will bring the specialness of the evening back to life.
When Maestro Kevin Rhodes strode onto the stage, radiating his usual energy, the welcoming applause included an appreciative buzz about what he was wearing – a suit of black silk tailored for him during his recent tour with the Dutch National Ballet. The mandarin collar, the long jacket, suited his lithe frame. As an aside, he said, "Yes, I did go to China."
The musical performance began with a loaded stage – 70 full-throttled SSO musicians plus 117 full-throated members of the Springfield Symphony Chorus performing Handel's mighty "Hallelujah Chorus" followed by a Carmen Dragon arrangement of "Joy To The World" which made the well-known hymn seem new.
Maestro Rhodes, doubling as Master of Ceremony, introduced ABC40 TV meteorologist Ed Carroll to read "T'was the Night Before Christmas" while Rhodes conducted the symphony orchestra. But first, some repartee. Carroll said, "I don't read music," and Rhodes shot back, "But I do!" As Rhodes turned toward the orchestra and lifted his baton, Carroll dead panned, "And a one and a two . . . Just kidding!" and picked up his script. Backed by a lively score, the reading was charming.
And then, right on cue, Santa sauntered onto the stage, primed to have fun, to be every inch very jolly. He looked Rhodes up and down, taking in the cut of his silk suit. "Do we still call you Maestro . . . or is it Chairman this year?" The audience howled.
Christmas isn't Christmas without selections from Tchaikovsky's "The Nutcracker" including "Dance of the Reed Flutes" and "Chinese Dance."
I bet it's safe to say that a Christmas Medley of traditional songs resurrected a montage of memories for many of us. Again, the arrangements by Carmen Dragon shone fresh light on timeless favorites, especially a particularly lovely rendition of "O Holy Night." Gathered together – "Ave Maria," "Oh, Little Town of Bethlehem," "It Came Upon A Midnight Clear," and "Deck the Halls" – memories flooded decades of past holidays.
Following intermission, a new group of choristers took their places at the rear of the stage – the 59 members of the Children's Chorus of Springfield (IN Springfield, OF Springfield, and FOR Springfield). They led off with Jeffrey Biegel's arrangement of "Hanukah Fanatsy" followed by Clifton Noble's arrangements of "Ochos Kandelikas," "Wassail Song," and from Humperdinck's opera, "Hansel & Gretel," the gentle "Evening Prayer."
While the Children's Chorus left the stage and the Springfield Symphony Chorus returned, Rhodes filled the time by borrowing a schick from Carol Burnett – opening up to taking questions from the audience which he handled deftly but one question brought down the house, "How much did you pay for that suit?" His answer? He didn't know because he charged it and the credit card statement hasn't arrived yet.
With everyone in place, a novelty song, "Christmas in A Minute" by Jeffrey Biegel set to the tune of Chopin's "Minute Waltz" whirled away, a choice that would have been better received had the rapid-fire words been sung by individuals.
From the ridiculous to the sublime, the phenomenally popular "White Christmas" by the prolific Irving Berlin bestowed authenticity to the time of year. A Christmas Medley followed, again arrangements by Carmen Dragon -- "Hark the Herald Angels Sing," "Oh, Come, All Ye Faithful," (one chorus in Latin) "Carol of the Bells," a beautiful "First Noel," and for the final carol, the audience sang the first stanza of "Silent Night," By then, the aisles were lined with the Children's Chorus, each child holding a battery-charged candle.
The applause from approximately 2500 people was heartfelt. At the second or third curtain call, a seemingly lighthearted Maestro (in spite of how busy he'd been throughout the performance) feigned he wondered if he should treat us to an encore. And, of course, he did, and it was Leroy Anderson's "Sleigh Ride" which the audience rhythm-clapped until the man in the smashing silk suit did his best to get us to sharply clap only when the percussionist cracked the whip. We tried, and by the third or fourth attempt, some of us got it right but some of us didn't. But laughing at ourselves? We nailed.
T'was a grand evening of Christmas cheer.
Reviewed by Donna Bailey-Thompson
The moment the Radiance ladies stepped onto the stage, they owned it. Dressed in identical, form-fitting bright purple mini dresses, the four women high-steppin' like young, spirited horses, sashayed to the center of the stage and opened their pulsating Music of Motown show supported by their own rhythm section and the full, and hot, Springfield Symphony Orchestra, under the direction of Guest Conductor, Bill Grimes.
They opened with Heatwave and never cooled off. Freeway of Love (Aretha Franklin) and Come See About Me (Supremes) followed without a break. The amplification of the music was loud – very loud – and unless one was already familiar with the lyrics, deciphering the words was next to impossible. Oh well – unintelligible or not, the performers' rhythm and pitch were on the money.
With Love Child (Supremes), by then accustomed to their non-stop energy, it was possible to appreciate their choreography. Not only their feet and legs were involved, their arms and hands were in virtually continuous motion. As were their bodies – except when leaning or perched on a stool for a few seconds to a minute or so while providing backup for whoever was singing lead. They switched around often – seamlessly – making wide loops or serpentine moves. And they sang non-stop, with real singing, not screeching, not sliding around hunting for a note, but with pipes borne of canaries.
The first act ended with a Donna Summer medley – that unmistakable disco beat: Last Dance, (She) Works Hard for the Money, Hot Stuff, Bad Girls. At some point, the Radiance four – Wendy Edema, MarQue Monday, Crystal Robinson, Vivian Scott – had completely seduced the audience with their radiant persona.
When they returned for the second act, slinkingly sophisticated in silky black jump suits with bling on their fingers and wrists and at their ears, still prancing as if they'd just enjoyed a shower and a rubdown, they dove into Dancin' In The Street (Martha Reeves) and so did a guy in the balcony, dancing in place, experiencing the music. The great beat led into I'm So Excited (Pointer Sisters), a title that described most of the audience: the music was as intoxicating as an old-fashioned revival meeting. The Balcony Guy was a stand-in for all of us staying put in our seats while our toes tapped and our shoulders moved and our heads bobbed – audience and some SSO musicians.
The Supremes' You Keep Me Hangin' On followed by You Can't Hurry Love were natural stepping stones to two by Aretha: (You make me feel like a) Natural Woman followed by R-E-S-P-E-C-T. Throughout, the singers sold every song, their legs and arms carrying on a la an aerobic workout – for real. Their smiles told us they were enjoying the show with us. Mutual appreciation arced between the stage and audience. The joint was jumpin'.
By then, Radiance had changed into a different costume – pale yellow dresses with a balloon hemline that grazed the knee and showed off their legs and the feet that supported them moving in a blur, the sure-footed fillies not fazed at all by strappy, spike heeled sandals.
The long leggiest of the quartet, Wendy Edema, she of the high cheek bones and (move-over-Michelle) gracefully expressive arms, soloed (with great backup), When Will I See You Again (The Three Degrees). She appeared to have what celebrity watchers call "a bump" of the five-month variety which when born will already know most of the songs his/her momma has been singing.
The quartet left the stage while the soothing melody of Love's Theme (The Love Boat) took charge. Soon the sweet strains of only Concertmaster Masako Yanagita's violin wafted into the farthest reaches of Symphony Hall – honeyed, assertive, commanding, delicate – solace for different taste buds, in sharp contrast to the high-spirited animation of Radiance, and respectfully honored by the audience's applause.
When the quartet returned, their Christmas red gowns garnished with diagonal lines of deeper red sequins, the beat picked up, the choreography jumped into high gear, and the Supreme's big hits got everyone's blood flowing anew – Someday We'll Be Together, and their talk-to-the-hand, Stop In the Name of Love.
And then, inevitably, the evening neared its end with Ain't No Mountain High Enough (Diana Ross). The good nights were expressed, "We had fun, did you?" Like they needed to ask? The audience was on its feet. The four women who radiate their love of music, of singing, of dancing, left the stage. People who wanted to beat the crowds, hustled out, but they missed the return of the performers, still smiling, and the SSO struck up, We Are Family (Sister Sledge).
Wendy, MarQue, Crystal and Vivian worked the edge of the stage, in deep knee bends, extending their hand-held mikes to singing folks in the first row, rhythmic clapping from the audience, and for a magical spell, we were family.
We are family
I got all my sisters with me
We are family
Get up everybody and sing. . .
With the presentation to the women of resplendent multi-colored flowers, the evening's Music of Motown ended, but not the memories.
Contact Us
2009 - 2010
Springfield Symphony Orchestra
SSO Pops Concert
Kevin Rhodes, Music Director
Lonnie Klein, Guest Conductor
Saturday, May 15, 2010
Reviewed by Donna Bailey-Thompson
The evening was not designed to win new accolades for the acclaimed classical excellence of the Springfield Symphony Orchestra but for it to augment the musical support of the headliner, Steve Lippia, a crooner and at times a belter reminiscent of the incomparable Francis Albert Sinatra.
Probably three-quarters of the audience knew the words of the twenty Sinatra hits listed in the program – and the arrangements, too. Under the direction of guest conductor Lonnie Klein, the overture's strong Broadway influence included brief introductions to two of the terrific Big Band musicians in Lippia's own group – howling trumpeter Joe Scaffaldo (sp?) and a timber-rattling drummer who hails from Shrewsbury whose name, alas, I didn't catch.
Steve Lippia, doesn't pretend to be Sinatra. Because he grew up listening to Sinatra's recordings and his mother singing the Big Band standards (she'd been a professional singer) and because he is blessed with being born with Italian pipes, at times his voice has a strong resemblance to Sinatra's. He is not an impersonator. He's a personable guy, a seasoned performer with an easy line of patter, whose pitch is true, who respects Sinatra's legacy by singing the songs ole blue eyes made famous, many of them the same arrangements.
What Lippia does can't be easy. He walks out onto a stage not physically resembling Sinatra to face an audience who admired Sinatra so much that they've shelled out bucks and forgone a laid back evening at home to change their clothes, go through the hassle of parking to check out this guy's singing. Some may have a backup plan: "If we don't like him, we'll leave at intermission."
He opened with the upbeat, I've Got The World On A String followed by The Best Is Yet To Come . His voice was similar to Sinatra's but I was waiting to be won over. Lippia spoke of Sinatra's broad appeal, that he was both a lady's man and a man's man. Further, that he recorded 1500 songs. With the Billy May arrangement of Cheek To Cheek, I exalted because, finally, the Big Band contingent provided a swinging beat ideal for dancing, something I've yet to hear a symphonic orchestras duplicate. However, with the Nelson Riddle arrangement of Witchcraft , its tempo and lilting beauty benefitted from the musicality of the SSO, as did the reflective It Was a Very Good Year, the Riddle arrangements of the musical genius of Cole Porter's I've Got You Under My Skin and the romantic The Way You Look Tonight.
For a total change of pace, Lippia treated us to his effective emotive phrasing of Sondheim's wry Send in the Clowns, accompanied by only his pianist, Jeff Holmes. This symbioses – Lippia's voice in sync with the lyrics and Holmes' appropriate minimalism at the concert grand – won me over; based upon the density of the applause, the audience and I were on the same page.
Following those poetic moments of introspection, the placement of the next song was so appropriate – the ironic That's Life. While two fortyish women in the next row kept time to the beat with their bobbing heads, my feet danced in place. The lady next to me responded to the beat with discreet, energized fingertips. Outwardly, the man to my right was as animated as a statue.
After intermission, Lippia remarked it was a good sign to see most of the audience had returned. Nevertheless, he had to win us all back, and he did with The Lady Is A Tramp and a song that captures Sinatra's joie d'vivre, Come Fly With Me, especially when the arrangement is by Billy May who knew how to jump. In stark contrast was the Rogers and Hammerstein's lyrical I Have Dreamed which Lippia delivered with winsome expectations. Lippea asked us to imagine Las Vegas in 1961, the Sands, Count Basie, and Sinatra singing Riddle's great arrangement of Fly Me to the Moon. That strong beat made the most of being revved up with Saturday Night (is the lonliness night of the week) the World War II hit (early '40s). By now, the nostalgia was deep.
Lippea showcased his romantic side with In The Wee Small Hours of the Morning and followed with an assertive Luck Be A Lady that scolded the dice to behave. More Count Basie and the Big Band verve of You Make Me Feel So Young – and mentally, it did.
Of course the last song on the program was Paul Anka's My Way which Lippea, with the full support of the SSO, delivered with in-your-face Sinatra defiance. The audience was on its feet. They'd just gotten warmed up. The program's designers had sensed this emotional peak and built in an unlisted encore so when the orchestra surprised with New York, New York, and Lippia began singing, cheering erupted for this psychologically correct fillip, a salute to Sinatra's in-your-face rebelliousness, his love of music, his singular contribution to America's songbook -- and memories of his easy baritone, his impeccable phrasing, his ability to sing directly to me and to you. Could anyone get inside a song as well as Sinatra? Nah.
All rights reserved.
© The Arts, etc., Copyright 2010


text:
Tuesday, May 21, 2013
So it seems that my kids may not be in enough after school activities
Every new sports season I offer to sign the kids up. More often than not, they respond with a no.
They each have played sports or taken some sort of music lessons, and seemed to enjoy them.
And, I would not be so worried if it was just one kid who seemed uninterested but it's all of them.
Eric played college soccer and set records for track. Isn't there something in their DNA that makes them want to be in every sport every season?
Exactly how am I supposed to achieve the coveted role of soccer mom if no one is playing?
I have actually racked my brain trying to come up with after school activities, but to no avail.
How am I supposed to hold my breath waiting to hear who the coach is and then breathe a sigh of relief or disdain at who it is, if they have no coach? I think the kids may be robbing my of my motherhood dream, but I am not 100 percent sure.
I know lots of Moms are trucking their kids to an after school activity every day, sometimes more than one thing.
And, since I am a mom it's only logical that I worry that my kids are not busy enough.
They clearly will not turn out to be well-rounded kids and maybe won't get into college.
Eric, aka the voice of reason says that we should offer the kids opportunities but not make them do anything. He is probably right ...
I don't really want to spend the majority of my time driving from one kid thing to another every day.
And I certainly don't want to parent our kids in the van.
The pace of our lives is certainly busy enough but what if one of the after school activities is supposed to be their life's calling but they turned it down? Oh, mercy...
So far the kids seem okay, but it might be too early to tell for sure.
South Strand News is pleased to offer readers the enhanced ability to comment on stories. We expect our readers to engage in lively, yet civil discourse. We do not edit user submitted statements and we cannot promise that readers will not occasionally find offensive or inaccurate comments posted in the comments area. Responsibility for the statements posted lies with the person submitting the comment, not South Strand News.
If you find a comment that is objectionable, please click "report abuse" and we will review it for possible removal. Please be reminded, however, that in accordance with our Terms of Use and federal law, we are under no obligation to remove any third party comments posted on our website. Read our full terms and conditions.
© 2015 South Strand News an Evening Post Industries company. All Rights Reserved.
Registration on or use of this site constitutes acceptance of our Terms of Service, Privacy Policy and Parental Consent Form.


text:
The Black Dahlia Murder
The Black Dahlia Murder have partnered with Revolvermag.com to exclusively debut the scathing, new track, 'Receipt,' from the band's new full-length album 'Abysmal', which comes out on September 18th on Metal Blade Records.Read More
Between the Buried and Me
Between the Buried and Me have debuted at #1 on the Hard Music Billboard Chart, as well as the iTunes Metal Chart, Vinyl Chart, Amazon Hard Rock Chart, and Amazon Metal Chart, with their latest release Coma Ecliptic.Read More
Downfall of Gaia
DOWNFALL OF GAIA have just confirmed a short August run, please spread the dates! The gig in Krakow has been added just recently.Read More
Redemption have completed recording a new album and signed with Metal Blade Records! New music and more details surrounding the band's sixth album and follow up to 2011's 'This Mortal Coil' will be released in the coming weeks.Read More
Cattle Decapitation
As the official deployment of 'The Anthropocene Extinction' from Cattle Decapitation draws ever closer, today Vice Magazine's mega music portal, Noisey, premieres the official 'making of' documentary.Read More
Rivers of Nihil
Rivers of Nihil recently band filmed an exclusive play through video for their song 'Perpetual Growth Machine'. The video was shot and directed by Paul Chrismer. Check out the video at GuitarWorld.com.Read More
New Releases
Upcoming Releases
Latest News
BATTLECROSS 'War of Will' debuts on the Billboard Top 200 at #134!
- 24/07/13 – BATTLECROSS' latest album, War of Will, has debuted...Read More
EXUMER announces line-up change!
- 24/07/13 – German thrashers EXUMER have parted ways with guitarist...Read More
TÝR announce new album 'Valkyrja', launch single and pre-orders!
- 24/07/13 – Valkyrja, the 7th full-length album from the Faroe Islands...Read More
ARTILLERY signs to Metal Blade!
- 18/07/13 – Metal Blade is welcoming legendary Danish Thrashers...Read More
Swedish Doom band BELOW signs to Metal Blade Records!
- 18/07/13 – Metal Blade Records is pleased to announce the signing of...Read More
RAM present brand new video clip for 'I Am The End' via Metal Hammer Germany!
- 18/07/13 – Announce line-up change and 10th anniversary show in...Read More
THE BLACK DAHLIA MURDER announces REVOCATION as support for European tour!
- 18/07/13 – ABORTED to complete package! THE BLACK DAHLIA MURDER have...Read More
AMON AMARTH score their strongest chart impacts around the World with their new album Deceiver of the Gods!
- 12/07/13 – The release of Deceiver of the Gods, the latest studio...Read More


text: National and County Elections Our Royal Charter includes governing regulations on the election of National Chairman and National Vice Chairman (rule 8) Board of Trustees (regulations 47 to 49) National Conference Committee (rule 18) and paragraph 5 of Standing Orders for the Conduct of Annual Conference. The Management Handbook covers elections for County/District Chairmen and Vice Chairmen (Part 2) and for the Membership Council (Part 1) and links to the relevant documents are available below (PDF format). Note that these are password restricted. Contact your County Secretary for further details. Election process for County/District Chairmen and County/District Vice Chairmen Conduct for elections of Membership Council Share this page


text:
U.S. auto sales in March are shaping up to be disappointing from the industry's point of view, but for consumers that's good news because incentives are relatively high and likely to stay that way. "We're seeing a rebound but not the rebound I think everyone was hoping for," said Eric Lyman, vice president for partner development and editorial for ALG Inc. The upside for consumers is that incentives for March were the highest they've been since 2010, at an average of $2,773, according to TrueCar, based in Santa Monica, Calif.
U.S. safety regulators said they had closed an investigation into electric sports car maker Tesla Motors Inc's ( TSLA ) popular Model S sedans. The U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration began investigations into the company's Model S luxury electric cars in November after three cars caught fire. "A defect trend has not been identified," the regulator said on its website. "The closing of the investigation does not constitute a finding by NHTSA that a safety-related defect does not exist."
Read More:
March U.S. Auto Sales Were In Like A Lamb, Out Like A Lamb – Forbes
U.S. regulator closes investigation into Tesla Model S sedan fires – Yahoo! Finance