text:
Security documents which has multiple fields or areas each of which contains information that is perceptible in more than one way: One field can contain a visually perceptible image and a digital watermark that can be detected when the image is scanned and processed, and another field can contain watermark data which can be correlated to the output of a fingerprint reader or of apparatus which scans a user's iris. The watermarks in the different graphic elements of the document are correlated to each other and correlated to the visual material on the document. Thus, the document can not be forged by replacing one element (such as a picture) with a similar element from another document. An automatic validation system of the present invention reads multiple fields on the document, and it also automatically detects information about the user. The various information is correlated to validate the document.
1. A self validating security document that has multiple fields of indicia including a field with a hidden digital watermark carrying hidden data, such that comparison of the hidden data with automatically read physical characteristics of the user can validate the document.
2. A system for producing a security document which contain both images, line art and text including a watermarking device for digitally watermarking at least on of said images with hidden digital data and for reproducing said image including said digital watermark on a carrier, and a printing device for reproducing human readable indicia on said carrier, said human readable indicia being related to said hidden digital data.
3. A security document comprising an image which contains digital watermark data data, said data including machine readable characteristics of the owner of the document, and human readable indicia which is related to said digital watermark data.
4. A security system that includes a first reading device for automatically reading a physical characteristic of a person presenting the document and a second reading device for reading hidden watermark data from said document, and a comparison device for comparing the output of the first reading device with the oput of said second reading device.
5. A security document for a user, said security document having multiple fields, a plurality of said fields containing hidden watermark data, the data in at least one of said fields identifying a physical characteristic of said user, the hidden data in at least two of said fields being coordinated such that if the data in one of said fields is changed without changing the other of said fields it will indicate that said security document has been altered.
6. An object comprising a substrate having thereon at least two regions, a first of said regions comprising a human-perceptible image with first plural-bit data steganographically encoded therein, a second of said regions comprising a background having unobtrusive markings arrayed there-across and also comprising text amidst said background, the markings in the second region encoding second plural-bit data, said first and second plural-bit data being coordinated.
7. The object of
8. The object of
9. An object comprising a substrate having thereon a photographic image and a graphic that is not a photographic image, characterized in that both the photographic image and the graphic are encoded to steganographically convey plural-bit data.
10. The document of
11. The object of
12. A method of printing a security document characterized by printing on a substrate (a) a photographic image, (b) a graphic distinct from the photographic image, and (c) a bar code or OCR text, all in a single printing operation, said photographic image and said graphic both having plural-bit data encoded therein that is related to said bar code or OCR text.
13. A system for validating a security document comprising: a scanner for producing digital scan data corresponding to said security document, a watermark decoder for reading watermark data from said digital scan data, a physical characteristic reader for reading a physical characteristic of a user, and a comparison device for comparing the out put of said physical characteristic reader and said digital scan data.
14. The system of
15. The system of
16. The system of
17. The system of
The present application is a continuation of application Ser. No. 09/442,780 filed Nov. 18, 1999 which is now pending. Application Ser. No. 09/442,780 is a non-provisional application of provisional application 60/109,259 filed Nov. 19, 1998. The present application is also a continuation in part of application Ser. No. 09/074,034 filed May 6, 1998 and a continuation in part of application Ser. No. 09/763,847 filed Dec. 4, 1996 (now U.S. Pat. No. 5,841,886 which issued Nov. 24, 1998) which is a continuation of application Ser. No. 512,993 filed Aug. 9, 1995. Priority of the above applications is claimed.
The present invention relates to the security documents such as passports, driver's licenses, credit cards, etc. and to systems for producing and validating such documents.
Many security documents contain a picture of the owner of the document. For example, a driver's license generally includes a picture of the driver and a passport generally includes a picture of the owner of the passport. Validation of such documents is performed by comparing the actual physical appearance of the person possessing the document to the picture on the document. A common counterfeiting techniques involves replacing the picture on a security document with a picture of someone who is not the owner of the document.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,841,886 which will issue Nov. 24, 1998 describes a technique whereby a digital watermark is included in the picture on a security document.
The security document contains human readable text that is related to the data contained in the watermark. The document can be inserted into a scanner which will read the watermark and the operator can compare the output of watermark reader to the text to insure that the person possessing the document is the legitimate owner.
Custom printing systems are available which accept data from multiple sources and which produce documents which are tailored to individual customer characteristics or to information concerning an individual customer. Such systems can for example produce personalized documents that include both fixed information that is on each document that is printed and variable information such as personal information about an individual's account at an institution such as a bank. One such system is commercially marketed under the trademark "PageFlex" by Bitstream Inc. or Cambridge Mass.
Likewise the technology for producing images which contain steganographic information in the form of digital watermarks is well developed. For example see U.S. Pat. No. 5,636,292, U.S. Pat. No. 5,748,783 or the "Communications of the ACM" published July 1998 Vol. 41. No. 7 pages 31 to 77. Commercial products which can store and read digital watermarks are also widely available. Examples of such products include "Adobe PhotoShop" Versions 4.0 and 5.0 and "Adobe ImageReady" Version 1.0 which are marketed by Adobe Corporation, "CorelDRAW" Versions 7 and 8, and "Corel PHOTO-PAINT" Versions 7 and 8 which are marketed by Corel Corporation, and Micrografx Webtricity" Versions 1 and 2, "Micrografx Graphics Suite 2", and "Micrografx Picture Publisher" Versions 7 and 8 which are marketed by Micrografx Corporation.
Security documents such as passports and drivers licenses have traditionally contained both images and printed text. However, the images and the text in such documents are generally prepared in separate processes and merely merged at a final step in the overall production.
The present invention is directed to an improved security document which has several correlated multi-level self validating features. The present invention is also directed to an improved overall method and system for producing security documents and to automatic authentication systems for such documents. With the present invention the document contains a number of different kinds of information that is hidden from normal view and which can be correlated to validate the document. The validation can be done entirely automatically decreasing the need for human intervention.
With the prior art systems, a human being such as an immigration officer must examine a passport to determine if the person presenting the document is the rightful owner of the document. With the present invention, the authentication can be done entirely automatically, leaving the human operator free to handle non-routine situations.
The present invention provides security documents which has multiple fields or areas each of which contains information that is perceptible in more than one way. For example, one field can contain a visually perceptible image and a digital watermark that can be detected when the image is scanned and processed, another field can contain machine readable OCR text that can be read by both a human and by a programmed computer, and still another field can contain watermark data which can be correlated to the output of a fingerprint reader or apparatus which scans a user's iris.
Documents in accordance with the present invention are produced by a system and method which begins with a template which defines the placements of elements on the document and the interrelationships between hidden and visual information on the document. That is, the template specifies the placement of elements such as images, photographs, and text and it also specifies the interrelationship between information that is visually perceptible to a user of the document and information that is hidden (not perceptible to a user) by means of digital watermarks. Different hidden digital watermark data is included in multiple elements of the document. The watermarks in the different graphic elements of the document are correlated to each other and correlated to the visual material on the document. In this way the document can not be forged by replacing one element (such as a picture) with a similar element from another document. In order to produce a document defined by a particular template, appropriate pictures, graphics and digital data are extracted from a data bank, and watermark data is embedded in the pictures and graphics as appropriate. The merged digital data is then sent to a printing engine and the final document is produced.
An automatic validation system of the present invention reads multiple fields on the document, and it also automatically detects information about the user. The various information is correlated to validate the document.
A diagram of a security document in accordance with the present invention is shown in
The document also contains a photograph 12 which shows the owner of the document. This photograph 12 contains a watermark such as that described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,841,886 which will issue Nov. 24, 1998. The personalized background 14 can for example be a background image which corresponds to the image 12. While the personalized image 14 corresponds to the photograph 12, in area 14 the image is printed as a background image. Background images of various types are conventional, for example personal checks frequently have background images of animals, mountains, etc.. The background text makes it hard to change the human readable text 15 which is printed over the background text. The bottom of the document has machine readable OCR-B text 16 and a Bar code 17.
It should be clearly understood that the document shown in
Document shown in
Document 10 can be a passport. In a passport, the hidden digital watermark data in picture 12 and in the other fields could be coordinated as follows:
An important point is that the various elements of hidden and visual information are coordinated in such a manner that the document is self authenticating. The hidden data in one field can be correlated with the hidden data in another field to insure that the document has not been altered.
If for example one tried to alter a document by replacing picture 12 with a different picture, the new picture would either contain no hidden data, or if it were a picture taken from a different document, the numbers stored in the picture would not match the printed information in text field 15.
If the picture from one document were substituted for the picture in a second document, the cryptographically encoded serial numbers could be used to determine the origin of the picture. It is noted that while in the example shown above, both the Batch number and passport number are cryptographically encoded, other numbers such as a serial number or an ID number could also be encoded in a special manner.
A template 21 is used to define the overall characteristics of a document. The characteristics specified by template 21, including the fields on the document, the data printed in any text fields and the watermarks included in each image included on the document.
The template 21 is used by document layout device 26 to layout a particular document for production. Data which is to be included in the watermarks in any image field are stored in Watermark data store 22. Any pictures, text data, and Graphics are stored in units 23, 24 and 25 respectively.
The document layout from unit 26, the digital watermark data from unit 22 and the pictures, text data and graphics from units 23, 24, and 25 are sent to Merging and watermarking unit 27. Unit 27 applies watermarks to pictures and graphics as specified by the layout information from unit 11. Application of the watermarks to the pictures and graphics can be done in a conventional manner; however, prior to sending the watermark payload (i.e. the data stored in the watermark) to the watermarking engine, the data can be passed through a conventional encryption program. Encrypting the payload data provides an added assurance that a counterfeiter could not make a counterfeit document. The level of encryption could be any level appropriate tot he value of the document.
The output from the Merging and watermarking unit 27 is then sent to a conventional printing engine 28 which produces a final document 10.
Watermark Data storage 22, picture storage 23, digital data storage 24 and graphics storage 25 can be conventional data storage servers. Physically they could all be provided by one physical storage unit. Template input unit 21 is a conventional interactive terminal or personal computer with a graphic design program. Merging and watermarking unit 27 can be a conventional watermarking engine.
The system shown in
The output from scanner 305 goes to three units (that is, to three computer programs) 305, 307 and 311. Alternatively, the bar code reader 305 could be a separate unit which directly reads the bar code and provides information to comparison and authentication unit 312.
If the bar code reader 305 is a computer program which receives information from the output of scanner 302, The program 305 will read the bar code 17. OCR program 307 reads the text 15 and the text 16 and watermark detector 311 reads the watermarks in images 11, 12 and 14.
An authentication and comparison unit 312 which compares the data from units 305, 307 311 and 303 to determine if the data matches. If the data in some of the watermarks is encrypted, the comparison and authentication unit 312 would include an appropriate decryption program. The decryption program in unit 312 could obtain the decryption key from remote data base 314 in response to the number read by one of the devices. Alternatively, the encrypted data could be automatically sent to a central facility for decryption. The unit 312 can also access a remote data base 314 to determine if there is any special handling that is required for the document that has been presented. For example data base 314 could contain information about passports that have been cancelled for various reasons. The resulting information is displayed on a display unit 320.
Patent Citations
Referenced by
Legal Events
Original Image


text:
High Winds, Snow Forecast For Thursday
The extreme cold is gone, but Chicago will be trading that for some windy and snowy conditions on Thursday.
Strong Winds Halt Some Metra Trains
Union Pacific North Line trains from Chicago to Kenosha will be stopped in Zion and Highland Park because of "high wind advisories," according to Metra.
Cold Snap Coming This Week After Warm Weekend
The temperature topped out at a balmy 70 degrees on Sunday, but you'll be needing a warm jacket again by the middle of the week.
Cold, Powerful Winds Hit Area Ahead Of Rain, And More Rain
The Chicago area will experience cold and powerful winds tonight, but no severe thunderstorms or tornadoes are expected, according to the National Weather Service.

subset: commoncrawl


text:
A Masters degree program and a Ph.D in engineering are both offered through the Department of Biological Systems Engineering. Applications are accepted year round.
Graduate degrees offered:
-Master of Science in Agricultural and Biological Systems Engineering
- Master of Science in Mechanized Systems Management
- Doctor of Philosophy in Biological Engineering
Interdepartmental degrees offered:
- Master of Science in Environmental Engineering
- Master of Engineering
- Master of Applied Science
- Doctor of Philosophy in the Unified Engineering Program in the
field of Biomedical Engineering
Gradute Assistant Openings:
Additional Resources:
Guidlines for Graduate Students


text:
A 21 year-old Portland nudist girl named Jasha Lottin doesn't see what the big fuss is about. All she did was buy and kill a horse in order to pose nude inside its bloody carcass. I mean, it's not like she didn't eat the horse when she was done – she did. But relax, everyone. It was for an art project.
Read the full article to learn more about the Portland nudist girl's Empire Strikes Back homage.
Consider posting a comment.


text:
Nov 14 2007
Cold and Cranky
It's getting colder by the day here on the ranch, which normally would be tolerable but for the fact that we had to get out of bed and leave the house at 5:24 this morning. Brrrr. Chatter. Brrrr.
And it never fails: it always—always—winds up being much windier and colder on a horse in the middle of the pasture than it was at our house when we were getting dressed and figuring out how many layers to wear. My girl could have used a coat. Or two. She looks cranky, doesn't she?
Our other girl could use a warm hat. And another coat. Or two.
She looks a little cranky, too.
Here, she's looks a tad forlorn. Troubled, even. And confused.
Here's a cowboy who's helping us this morning. He looks a little cold. And cranky.
Pesky Tim's always cold, even when it's 97 degrees outside. So on mornings like this one, LOOK OUT.
"Anybody got a jacket?" Even the cows are cold today. Cranky, too. This one told me to "Shut up and stick that camera where the sun don't shine, Two Legs!" Can you believe the attitude?
Even the nearby mustangs were cold.
"Anybody got a scarf?"
We have to wean 700 calves by day's end, and there's no gettin' around it. And it's gonna take awhile.
So smile, punk! You might as well settle in and enjoy the day! Oh, and don't worry…Mommy'll be just fine. She's sitting here at home, taking care of some "real important stuff."
And man, does this heater feel gooooooood.
Off to make myself some hot chocolate!
191 Comments
Sandy C. On Wednesday, November 14 at 2:07 pm
yeah, it must be almost as bad as leaving a hotel in New York City, which is 30 minutes by subway from everything you want to do that day so going back for more clothes isn't an option, with just a jacket and finding the longer you walk around the more you understand all those New Yorkers dressed in coats, scarves and gloves when it's "only" 40 degrees. Here at home we call that "a nice day". On second thought, being stuck on a horse on a windy prairie without enough warm clothes might be a little worse. Heh heh.
Sandy On Wednesday, November 14 at 2:15 pm
Pesky Tim looks like a Carrhart ad! and that is one just gorgeous horse he is on.
Donna W On Wednesday, November 14 at 2:17 pm
Pesky Tim is the only one with enough sense to put enough clothes on.
David Mills On Wednesday, November 14 at 2:24 pm
Looks like a norther. But not a blue norther.
Hannah On Wednesday, November 14 at 2:25 pm
Those pathetic expressions remind me of the cold-weather faces around here–especially on my oldest daughter who refuses to wear jackets (or long sleeves for that matter!).
I'm the exact opposite and walk around with a blanket wrapped around myself all the time–my husband says i look like Dracula with the "cape" and shock of dark hair.
mamasgotmoxie On Wednesday, November 14 at 2:26 pm
you are raising some toughies over there!! they are handling the weather like true champs. i, on the other hand, would have been crying…
Chic Girl On Wednesday, November 14 at 2:29 pm
It hit you up north way before it hit here. It was balmy this morning. Now the wind is blowing and it's cold! Oklahoma weather…always a changin'
witchypoo On Wednesday, November 14 at 2:31 pm
Your photographs just get better and better.
I'm thinking that this year, Santa should show up with something for me. Like a camera. The youngun claimed mine and it has disappeared into the black hole he calls a room.
Niobe On Wednesday, November 14 at 2:31 pm
Man look at the lashes on that cow.
David Mills On Wednesday, November 14 at 2:33 pm
Oh, Grandma Lollipop: Did you know that typing in all caps is considered rude shouting? You might want to upgrade from a teletype to an ordinary keyboard.
jettied On Wednesday, November 14 at 2:34 pm
hello!! We have such similair weather!!!!!!! that's the look here!! today windy a cold 38 and oohhh did I mention cold?? and windy!!!!
It's all brown and cold..oohh yea I mention cold.
Love the john Deere well and the horses.Did I mention windy and cold!!
Katydid On Wednesday, November 14 at 2:40 pm
I love reading your website. You are obviously a terrific mama. I homeschooled my 4 kids back when homeschooling was NOT cool. My oldest is now a successful attorney, oldest daughter is a successful wife and mommy, and my youngest son right now is in Recruit Training Command for the USNavy. I am now homeschooling my last one(my baby girl)..she is almost 17 and a JR. Your kids are getting the BEST education ever and having a wonderful life too! God bless you and your family!
I'm loving your recipes, too!
Pam On Wednesday, November 14 at 2:43 pm
Absolutely loved the pics today, would give my right arm to be there. You go girl!
Ymp On Wednesday, November 14 at 2:43 pm
I love the pictures and can I just say the pictures of Carharts, especially girls in Carharts makes me miss home. Enjoy being inside and remember those of us who wish inside was a little less than sweltering (curse ancient heating systems).
Amy in Austin On Wednesday, November 14 at 2:44 pm
not to rub it in at all…but it is 90 degrees today in Austin.
ashpags On Wednesday, November 14 at 2:44 pm
Love the John Deere sweatshirt. It is 10,000 times cooler because she actually has contact with JD products on a regular basis.
Man, I want to knit hats for your girls. Would they wear them? Or are they not "hat people"?
I'm glad you got to stay inside where it's warm! =)
Heidi On Wednesday, November 14 at 2:47 pm
I agree–that blonde cow is beautiful. I don't recall ever seeing a blonde cow before…
Love your daughter's pink cowboy boots, too.
Life On The Planet On Wednesday, November 14 at 2:47 pm
"Reagan says:
Did you mean that Pesky Tim is always CRANKY?"
Well, he might be needin' some sweets. Yep, I bet his blood sugar level's dangerously low.
Ree, please give that man a piece of candy.
Laura S On Wednesday, November 14 at 2:49 pm
More, gorgeous pics, Ree. Love the pic of the 'sassy' cow. How pretty. The horses look cold in the first few pictures.
lisawhip On Wednesday, November 14 at 3:02 pm
"We have to wean 700 calves by day's end, and there's no gettin' around it. And it's gonna take awhile."
Dang, that's a LOT of sippy cups!
Charlottalove On Wednesday, November 14 at 3:07 pm
I normally don't post since you get, oh, a million comments a day but since you brought up cocoa… I've got the perfect cocoa mug for you. :o)
Mama Bear On Wednesday, November 14 at 3:10 pm
I love the grey horse with her eyes closed. She looks like she's smiling, enjoying the moment.
And that beautiful cow isn't cold; she's asking saying "I've got my fur coat on. Where's yours?"
Ree, I'm always amazed at your photographs. Makes me want to save every penny to buy a wonderful digital SLR. (But somehow these darn college kids of mine always need something, like tuition, room and board, books, ….)
meme On Wednesday, November 14 at 3:13 pm
"OKLAHOMA….where the wind comes sweeping down the plain…."
and that's exactly what this morning brought…cold, north wind. But it's November, and about time for some cooler temperatures, so not really unexpected.
Tiger Lamb Girl On Wednesday, November 14 at 3:13 pm
Ah — this is my favourite time of year. I love the crisp cold air. Not too cold yet.
Lovely photos as usual;).
Snowbird On Wednesday, November 14 at 3:17 pm
I love your pics and the story you tell with them is priceless. Good for you. I would stay in the warm house too.
Natalie In TX On Wednesday, November 14 at 3:21 pm
It'a a normal fall day here in South Central Texas. It's 3:15 and 95 degrees in the sun, although with the breeze that's blowing it actually feels like it's only 87 or so. But I feel for you – we've got the AC on right now and in my shorts and tank-top I'm downright chilly and that hot chocolate sounds good.
That sure is a pretty yellow cow. and I love the 'graying' mustang – she needs a touchup on those mane roots.
alison On Wednesday, November 14 at 3:21 pm
how do you wean calves?
Brandi On Wednesday, November 14 at 3:21 pm
Those girls of yours are making what my family refers to as some "good ol days" memories. When they go off to collage and their roommates are complaining about something petty suck as being cold when it's 50 degrees out they can recall their good old day memories. I am sure it will only make them stronger and warmer in the end.
Lisa S. On Wednesday, November 14 at 3:23 pm
For now it's still 80 degrees here in Texas, but by tomorrow we will be getting the cold wind blowing in from your state. Love the pictures and it makes me want some of the hot coco too!
Heidi the Hick On Wednesday, November 14 at 3:42 pm
man, cold or not, your girls have got style! Pink boots and John Deere sweatshirt! Out for my heart!
I taught a lesson last week and the poor kid's teeth were chattering- after only a half hour. I was cold too but I'm a little more experienced at dressing for the weather.
It's true though- it's so much colder in the field than in the barnyard!!!
Heidi the Hick On Wednesday, November 14 at 3:44 pm
Also I love pesky Tim's very alert horse.
And the butterscotch cow!
BOSSY On Wednesday, November 14 at 4:02 pm
Evil wicked mommies Unite!
jan On Wednesday, November 14 at 4:07 pm
LOL – what a cold hearted mommmy – but you know, some day they'll thank you for it, right?
tammy On Wednesday, November 14 at 4:08 pm
Ok…so how does one wean 700 calves in one day? I suppose it is just separating them from their mamas? Poor things. Did you tell them last week to start the weaning process?? ;o)
Joan On Wednesday, November 14 at 4:08 pm
I really like this batch of photos… especially crisp (okay, cold and windy… I hate that combo) and sharp. They great, but the mustangs are my favorite. Oh, and the lucky mares, they have built in scarves!
nancypants On Wednesday, November 14 at 4:12 pm
I don't know… I can't imagine it being too cold in Oklahoma! We had a high of +4 Celsius… yes, this is the time of year where we have to say the + in front of every temperature because the fact is, it's cold all the time! And we are also getting to the time of year when we not only say the + but we tack on "a balmy" in front of the + because it's getting to the time of year when anything with a + in front of it really does feel balmy!
I L-O-V-E the pictures with the cows in the foreground — the one of the older cowboy/gentleman and the similar one with your daughter. Those are my faves today.
Does it really get *that* cold in Oklahoma?! (I'm really just kidding… it does look pretty nippy out there… and especially when you'd much rather be under 17 layers of blankets in your bed!) :^D
Carrie On Wednesday, November 14 at 4:24 pm
Yeah, um, good luck with the weaning. Just thinking of that makes me cold and cranky.
Copenhagen Kisses On Wednesday, November 14 at 4:27 pm
Just for informational purposes. I'm pretty sure the "butterscotch" cow is a Charolais. We have a couple of them but they aren't nearly as pretty as that one. Y'all have great looking stock. Your husband and fam do an amazing job with your animals!
Jennifer On Wednesday, November 14 at 4:36 pm
Everytime I see your pictures with your children on horses, it amazes me! My kids have seen pictures of horses and once got to pet one at a carnival. They were so excited they almost peed on themselves! It's just mindblowing to me that riding horses could be so normal for kids somewhere.
Cate On Wednesday, November 14 at 4:43 pm
It was 22 here this morning when I crawled out of bed and moaned, and I love the cold.
Punk 1 and Punk 2 do look chilly, but it also looks like some loving soul took pity on them and ran back to the house for their jackets.
Though I'd much rather work cattle (and I've never worked cattle in my life) in an OK winter than an OK summer. How do MM, your punks, and the gang stand it in August?! When I was living in hell, I mean north Texas, I couldn't stand to be outside past about 10 AM in August.
Linda On Wednesday, November 14 at 4:55 pm
Hey, at least it's not 40 below.
Jeanette On Wednesday, November 14 at 4:57 pm
That's just cruel!
snakeepoo On Wednesday, November 14 at 5:07 pm
I love all the people in TX like me telling you how warm it was here today. I'll weigh in for Houston. It was 85 degrees today. You can send that cooler weather our way if you like. Although our luck down here, it would mutate into some sort of ice storm! Nevermind!
Evie On Wednesday, November 14 at 5:10 pm
Oh how I wish it were cold here. And I wish I could look out and see horses and other beautiful animals roaming my property.
Your girls are so tough! I want to be just like them when I grow up. LOL
I sit inside when it's cold with a piping hot Chai Latte, thank you very much.
Great photos, as usual!
Suzzi On Wednesday, November 14 at 5:17 pm
I don't care who you are…..Cranky Tim is a babe! Cranky or not still cute! And your girls are darling and fashionable-this is the kind of education I wish I had! Oh and seriously…..how long are we going to have to wait for "Black Heels…"?
Sunshine On Wednesday, November 14 at 5:31 pm
What the heck kind of look is Pesky Tim's horse giving you? Looks kinda wild-eyed!
And I know why everyone looks Grumpy – NO DONUTS!!! I remember you saying your Donut Store had closed out. We can endure anything until first coffee and the donuts. What a sad state of affairs.
I, too, was out working in the cold today.
Kim On Wednesday, November 14 at 5:35 pm
I just love your pictures, and comments. Reminds me of when we made our kids get up to go scalloping in the cold mornings. They hated us for it….but they got over it fast!
OCJEN On Wednesday, November 14 at 5:38 pm
I love how the white mustang looks like she's smiling in her sleep.
But B-R-R-R-R those clouds look chilly!
Carolina Caren On Wednesday, November 14 at 5:38 pm
Brrr… I can feel the cold! And I'm here in balmy NC – T-shirt weather today.
Great photos, very evocative. That butterscotch cow looks like she's saying "WTF?! Did she just take my *picture*?"
Natalie (AZ) On Wednesday, November 14 at 5:48 pm
Well I'm cranky because the temperature resides on the other end of the thermometer. I think the high today was supposed to be around 90. I'm tired of this heat and I was jealous of the cute cow, the horses, pesky Tim, and your daughter for getting to experience the cold!
For what it's worth, I've lived in Montana, so yes, I know what cold is.
lifelearningmom On Wednesday, November 14 at 6:31 pm
These pictures of your horses moved me so much I made my 9yr. punk look at them with me to tell me how they made him feel. "Ah, mom yeh there nice" he already knows how to pacify his mom.
Valarie in AL On Wednesday, November 14 at 6:58 pm
We just got your cold front a little while ago, they are tracking the storms as we speak here in North AL. I think I just heard them say something about a tornado. Our high today was around 78, and the high tomorrow will be around 55.
MamaGeph On Wednesday, November 14 at 7:02 pm
alison says:
"how do you wean calves?"
Don't you know? You just let them suck their thumbs…
canoelady3 On Wednesday, November 14 at 7:17 pm
Well, it is getting cold in northern Wisconsin too. Out here, the deer are running and getting ready for firearms hunting which starts this weekend. As you are wearing ranch wear..we see allot of camo.
I just want to say what a wonderful thing you are sharing with your children. Ethics and hard work. thank you for the wonderful comments with the photography.
TTFN, get some long underwear out!
Robin in Michigan On Wednesday, November 14 at 7:19 pm
Were you taking those pictures from your front porch with your Super-Duper-Zoom Lens?
You bad girl…
Bonnie On Wednesday, November 14 at 7:24 pm
It was over 70 degrees here today but the weather is suppose to change & turn cold overnight. Hope the hot chocolate did the trick! I also wondered "how you wean calves?" I am not from the country so am lost….Bonnie
ClaudiaW On Wednesday, November 14 at 7:30 pm
I am so absolutely sure that my 20 y/o daughter would gladly move out there and let your little ones come stay at my WARM house in California in exchange. She would relish being out there with ya'all gathering calves to wean. She would even help out training the horses you need to train, (cause that's what she does) The only request is that she brings her mom who would rather be on your ranch away from even Starbucks than to be here in the middle of thousands of human beings. While I am there, I would gladly wash dishes, floors and even WINDOWS. I sew, therefore I could make you all quilts to keep you warm on those cold cold cold winter nights! of course that would mean that your little ones would be here with my 26 y/o who surfs, they'd have to learn new stuff like that.
Tanya T On Wednesday, November 14 at 7:50 pm
You want to experience the COLD,,,,come visit Wisconsin in mid January! BRRRRRR, and i have to drive around with my window down delivering mail in that kind of weather.
momto3cubs On Wednesday, November 14 at 7:52 pm
Your photos amaze me every day. Such fine detail. Everything looks even sharper than it would in real life, LOL.
In Wisconsin it's been in the 50's during the day, and in the 20's at night. I had a hard time getting my kids to wear even one light fall jacket this morning. Yours kids look dressed pretty warm.
Haley On Wednesday, November 14 at 7:53 pm
I'm so disappointed that I'll never be first anymore…unless you actually post at 5:24 am. It used to be my morning ritual to teach a class, send the kids off to their related arts classes, and then sit down to some pioneer woman. But now, websense has decided that your website is social material, and I have to wait until the end of the day! Boo hoo hoo. I'm going to go cry me a river. Or better yet, prepare for parent/teacher conferences. The river thing sounds so much better.
Amber C On Wednesday, November 14 at 8:13 pm
Such gorgeous photos Ree. I love your eye for photography and I am totally jealous, just so you know. I honestly would love some cold weather. It was 86 here today and frankly I'm sick of it. Bring on the cold! I so totally need to just move. So if I moved to a remote corner of your property would you notice? Because I'm totally thinking I need to just start coming over and pretending I belong to the ranch. Not that I know where you live really. But a gal can dream can't she?
Artsy On Wednesday, November 14 at 8:21 pm
Great photos. I like your DOF.
Trixie On Wednesday, November 14 at 8:30 pm
Ree, I think we must be neighbors, in the broad sense, what with all the geographic hints you seem to drop — Pioneer Woman, 101 Ranch… I'm just around the corner from the BIG Pioneer Woman, not too far from a new Starbuck's. And that long shot of the ranch sure looks like familiar territory in my part of our grand state. It's so nice to see your photos — it's a true living history for a state turning 100 on Friday!!
Patsy M. On Wednesday, November 14 at 8:44 pm
Loved your pics today and everyday!
I know how cold it is on a horse in the middle of a pasture, and I would trade in a heartbeat to be there again.TIP: sock, bread wraper,sock then boot(keep your feet warm and dry)scarf over head and ears then the hat.Anyway as I was told get out there and move them calves you'll warm up.
Pesky Tim's horse looks like mine on sharp brisk mornings,really wanting to do some ballet moves, or at least a tango or two. Thanks for letting me share your ranch and family.
Suzanne On Wednesday, November 14 at 8:57 pm
Hey Ma,
After you finish your blog and knock back that hot chocolate, how about sending a couple of scarves, hats, jackets, and a thermos of hot chocolate out to us punks!!!!!
MrsA On Wednesday, November 14 at 9:07 pm
Trixie–yes you are! November 16, 1907 marked the entry of the 46th state to the Union. From Boise City in the west to Miami and Idabel in the east–from Ponca City down to Ardmore–YOU'RE LOOKIN' FINE. Petroleum, aviation, a leader in several ag industries, some of the best schools in the nation, fine folks, fertile land, the very soul and backbone of this GREAT NATION we all call home.
I may live in Texas now, but I will always be very, very proud of the state that issued my birth certificate.
OK, Trixie, Ree, et al?
Trixie On Wednesday, November 14 at 9:19 pm
MrsA, I've been anticipating this great centennial event for years now! It's the same sort of crazed anticipation I got from waiting for Christmas as a little punk. And here's Ree and her punks living it out in the nitty-gritty every day.
I've been going around to the local schools shooting photos of the kids with their centennial assemblies, but man, it would be cool to get the kind of photos Ree is shooting!
Have an extra hot chocolate with the whole family Friday, Ree, to celebrate! Yeeee-HAW! You're doin' fine, Oklahoma! OK!
Angi On Wednesday, November 14 at 9:25 pm
Thanks for bringing me back to the days of lambing with my aunt and uncle on their farm in Lehi Utah back in the day when they were the only house for miles and miles.
Getting up at 12, 2 and 4 to check for lambs was NOT my idea of fun, but being with my Aunt was the best thing ever. She taught me a lot.
Your awesome girls are going to be even more awesome Young Ladies. I am sure you consider them real blessings.
Shawna On Wednesday, November 14 at 9:40 pm
I'm with you ladies, Happy Birthday to Oklahoma. Without question the most beautiful and wonderful state in the nation and the people are "outta sight"! I'm in Arkansas at this moment in my life so I'm thrilled to know there are others that are excited about our Centennial Celebration!
amy On Wednesday, November 14 at 9:42 pm
Gorgeous photos. And horses.
tracie On Wednesday, November 14 at 9:56 pm
You captured the cold in your pics very well.
I feel bad for saying this since he is married…..but good lord that pesky Tim is a good lookin' cowboy : )
I love that you have mustangs on your ranch….it is just so cool. Probably because it is so different from what I am used to here in Ohio.
Thanks for the pics of your kids…more ammunition to show MY punks why they are so lazy!!!
JAZEVOX On Wednesday, November 14 at 9:56 pm
you have really great talent in photography, such beautiful and stunning photographs
Val Cox On Wednesday, November 14 at 10:07 pm
oh boy, this is a classic, I love it. Thanks for the laugh! Val
Marianne On Wednesday, November 14 at 10:33 pm
You're right. It is cold.
How 'bout some cowboy photos to warm us up and improve the mood.
Hmm? Pretty Please???
ME On Wednesday, November 14 at 10:36 pm
You can just tell by the many photos you have taken of your oldest daughter and Pesky BIL Tim how much those two love that ranch, the land, and what they do.
Not that the others don't, but when those two work the land and cattle their love for it just oozes out of their every pore. They are tied to it…it's like they need it like they need air to breath.
Okay sorry I got over worked about it. But they do.
April Dawn On Wednesday, November 14 at 10:50 pm
Sounds like one hellofa day for the punks!
we like to call it torture the babies.
Ang in TX On Wednesday, November 14 at 11:32 pm
I had to come back again…
There is something in today's photographs for me…I've read your blog for over 6 months, played the games, but today the photography grabs my heart… it's real! As a rancher I can relate to the subject more so, than any of your cattle ranching photos. It is just rather bizarre, but I'm telling you something special is there!
I wish I knew what it was… maybe a children's book for children in the city, or how to warm a heart in cold times… but something is there and you are much more creative than I … run chica, run.
Dawn-Enigma Artist On Thursday, November 15 at 12:35 am
So… did Pesky Tim's horse buck him off or try too?
The ranch horses I'm used to are usually extra frisky on a brisk, windy morning.
Love the second gray mustang.
SpokaneMama On Thursday, November 15 at 2:18 am
My 9 year old daughter spotted the John Deere sweatshirt….she is absolutely in LOVE with it. She has a hat, but now that she knows that there is a sweatshirt she wants to add that to her Christmas list.
As a cute aside, we were driving back to Spokane from Pullman and we drove through a lot of rolling farmland. In the middle of nowhere we past a John Deere sign and from the back seat my baby says: "Look Mommy, there's a John Deere store!"
I'm not sure if they really call them "stores" honey.
"Yeah, but you can buy all those green machines there."
lady macleod On Thursday, November 15 at 5:00 am
lovely photographs as usual. you appear to have a real working ranch, brilliant. i am doing research at present on the American West which is where my characters in my novel have taken me – unfortunate as I know NOTHING of the American west and nothing of ranching! I am going to mine your site for insights.
Darlene Martin On Thursday, November 15 at 5:29 am
LOVE! The picture of the three mustangs! And, I have a good friend who would love it as well. I feel a photo purchase request coming on!
Chesapeake Bay Woman On Thursday, November 15 at 5:58 am
SpokaneMama-John Deere even makes women's pocketbooks! It is true. Around my neck of the woods we have John Deere maniacs, it's a real illness. I'm definitely not one, or anything (as my eyes gaze out onto the JD Gator, the JD diesel tractor, the JD lawnmower, my JD caps that I wear for grass cutting, etc.).
connie in nm On Thursday, November 15 at 6:15 am
Love the "blonde" cow. Don't see them much – in this area anyway.
That first picture of the mustangs was great too!
In the ask Ree category: With your agoraphobia and thinking of your recent story of trying to shop for clothes for yourself – how do you manage all the people at ropings or rodeos?
Andrea On Thursday, November 15 at 6:24 am
I ADORE the first mustang pic. Wow!
Isabel On Thursday, November 15 at 7:33 am
Just curious – does "real important stuff" by any chance have to do with another installment of BH2TW or cooking up another recipe for the food blog???
Susan On Thursday, November 15 at 8:22 am
You crack me up with the "we."
Kathy in MN On Thursday, November 15 at 1:27 pm
Just love this stuff. Kind of have me a field day when I forget to check because then I get 2 whole days and I never even knew my something was missing in my life yesterday.
hawkswench On Thursday, November 15 at 2:21 pm
First: I love the pics!!
Second: The girls will learn to "add another layer on just incase". Its easier to remove a layer then freeze.
Third: Is there a "Save Blondie from becoming a cheeseburger" fund?
Fourth: Yes it is considered rude to use all caps when posting on the internet. But everyone needs to remember that some people do have eye problems that typing in caps maybe the only way that they can see what they are writing.
Janilou On Thursday, November 15 at 6:50 pm
Wow. I have to admit – it looks like something my husband would jump at the opportunity to do that in a heart-beat! We raise and train quarter horses, milk 275 dairy goats and go riding whenever we can find the time!
Fabulous photos!
Janilou On Thursday, November 15 at 6:53 pm
I really enjoy reading of your ranching activities. We are in the process of drying off our dairy does. They are seasonal breeders. Our busy time comes in Feb/March when we are expecting over 500 goat kids to be born and we have to feed them all with a bottle! LOL Actually we get them onto six-teat buckets asap.
Great photos! Love this blog!
Kelly On Friday, November 16 at 8:33 am
Ree, I just devoured your Black Heels novella in one fabulous, neglectful of my family, sitting. Woo wee! I am dying for another installment; I hope you can pull yourself away from those sweet potatoes and crank out another chapter. Where was Marlboro Man for those 4 months in between the initial meeting and the first date? Was he trying to let someone down easy like you were? What was the proposal like? What did your parents think when you suddenly fell in love and changed your plans? Thanks so much for sharing all of this deliciousness with us – I was breathless at the end of it last night!


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|Member Benefits
Since 1926, the Walnut Creek Chamber of Commerce has worked to create a strong local economy by actively promoting the community, providing extensive networking opportunities, serving as the voice of business, and spearheading aggressive political action. Nowhere can you find a better return on your investment than the Walnut Creek Chamber of Commerce. As a Chamber member, you have access to a wealth of valuable benefits and services.
Among the many benefits are:
|Business Directory
|Event Registration
|Places To Eat
|Member Login
|Join Our Community
|Chamber Social Network
|Special Offers
Click here to view a project walk through of The Orchards
"As ambassadors, we have the best job at the chamber. We get to personally welcome new members, go to all the ribbon cuttings and BASHs, and basically be the party people of the chamber! Who wouldn't have a good time doing that?"- Katherine Scott, Private Dining Administrator, Ruth's Chris Steak House


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Video:How to Make Whipped Creamwith Gretchen Siegchrist
Step up your favorite dessert by topping it with the freshest whipped cream around. Watch how to make whipped cream from scratch, and learn a bonus low-fat version.See Transcript
Transcript:How to Make Whipped CreamHi, I'm Gretchen Siegchrist for About.com Food, and I am going to show you how to make whipped cream. We will make the regular version and a fat-free kind.
Whipped Cream and Cold UtensilsFor both kinds of whipped cream, you want your ingredients, as well as the bowl and the mixers, to be very cold. This will make whipping easier.
Regular Whipped Cream IngredientsFor regular whipped cream , add one cup of heavy or whipping cream to a chilled bowl.
Make the Whipped CreamMix it until it thickens and starts to form peaks. Then add some sweetener. Generally three to four teaspoons of sugar will do. It is best to use whipped cream right away, but if you need to store it, put it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for a day or two. It is also possible to freeze whipped cream if you need to store it for longer. Begin by putting a sheet of waxed paper on a cookie sheet. Now, drop individual dollops of whipped cream onto the waxed paper. Place the cookie sheet, uncovered, in the freezer. When the dollops of whipped cream are firm, you can remove them from the waxed paper and store them together in a freezer bag. When you are ready to use them, you can take these individual dollops and defrost them in the refrigerator for five to ten minutes before using.
Fat Free Whipped Cream IngredientsFor fat-free whipped cream, we are using evaporated milk, vanilla, and honey.
Make the Fat Free Whipped CreamEmpty the can of evaporated milk into a bowl and place it in the freezer until it begins to form ice crystals. This will make it easier to whip. Whip the evaporated milk until it begins to form peaks. When it is thickened, add one teaspoon vanilla and two teaspoons honey. You can adjust these measurements according to your taste. This fat-free whipped cream will not store well, so you should use it right away.
Thanks for watching. To learn more, visit us on the Web at food.about.com.
About videos are made available on an "as is" basis, subject to the User Agreement.


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|« Back to Article
Joe Souza funeral arrangements
: November 19, 2011 : Updated: November 19, 2011 11:45pm
The viewing for Joe Souza is from 4-9 p.m. Monday at Castle Ridge Mortuary, 8008 W. Military Drive. Rosary is at 7 p.m., also at the mortuary.
Funeral Mass is scheduled for 9 a.m. Tuesday at the Resurrection of the Lord Catholic Church, 7990 W. Military, with burial at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery at 10:45.
A reception back at the church is set for noon.
- John Whisler


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Ben Gracewood
Ben has been around the block as a developer, team leader, and manager with companies including Datacom, Orion Health and Intergen. He is now hiding among a team of superstars at Marker Metro. The odd man out, Ben pretends that his coding mistakes are intentional, so as to look more intelligent than he in fact is.


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On August 20, Covered
California (the state's health insurance marketplace) announced that it is offering new family dental plans to consumers
who enroll in health insurance coverage in 2015. Additionally, all individual
health insurance plans sold through the Covered California... Click Here To Read More
As you may recall, on May 26, 2011, Gov. Peter Shumlin (D-VT) signed into law H. 202 (now called
Act 48). Act 48 created the Green Mountain Care Board... Click Here To Read More
The Central New Mexico (CNM) Community College in Albuquerque
is offering a new certificate program—the Community Dental
Health Coordinator (CDHC)
program. The first entering class will accept only registered dental... Click Here To Read More
The state Department
for Public Health has given five local health departments grants to operate
portable dental units. The concept to create these grants for portable dental
units was born out of the governor's budget. The
one-year awards of $160,000 will pay for a full-time dental... Click Here To Read More
On August 26, U.S. Department of Health
and Human Services Secretary Sylvia M. Burwell announced $35.7
million in Affordable Care Act funding to 147 health centers in 44 states, the
District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico to support patient-centered medical... Click Here To Read More
San Francisco
On July 22, the City and County of San Francisco
Board of Supervisors voted
(see pdf page 12) to advance a proposal to tax sugary beverages. On November 4,
San Francisco residents will vote on an ... Click Here To Read More
Virginia General Assembly will return on September
18, to begin considering and debating legislation regarding Medicaid expansion.
Although Gov. Terry McAuliffe (D-VA) has repeatedly expressed his support for
Medicaid expansion in the state, the majority of the House of Delegates appears
to oppose... Click Here To Read More
The National Network for Oral Health Access (NNOHA) issued
a paper
presenting the results of a national survey of health centers that NNOHA
conducted in June 2013 to obtain information about school-based oral... Click Here To Read More
Advocacy and Governmental Relations portfolio (AGR) is offering its ADEA
Advocacy Workshop series to ADEA members. AGR's staff of advocacy professionals
(who have worked in state legislatures and the U.S. Congress) will travel to
your institution to present information on how to become an effective advocate
for academic dentistry... Click Here To Read More
has developed a State
Advocacy Toolkit, enabling ADEA members to more effectively advocate for
dental education and dental and craniofacial research.
importance of being an advocate for academic dentistry and dental and
craniofacial... Click Here To Read More


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3 Tips to Leveraging News to Create Newsworthy Content
Wanting to incorporate content marketing and tools like news release distribution into your online marketing mix is a great first step to maximizing your reach and driving visitors to your website.
But one of the most common questions remains: "what do we write about?"
Companies may have an idea for the first release or two, but what about news release #15, 32 or 46?
Perhaps you've gone through the traditional sources of product announcements, new hires, special events and grand openings. What can you do to provide content that viewers will look for eagerly?
Follow these 3 suggestions on how to leverage news to create newsworthy content:
1. Be Aware of Industry & World Headlines
Keeping up-to-date on what's happening is a great way to inspire new ideas and/or find connections between top stories and your company's offerings.
Perhaps a trend piece relevant to your industry is published and receiving a lot of online play. Extract one or two of the statistics (and cite it of course) and build off of the data as it relates to your offering.
To help you keep up-to-date on the amount of content created by news outlets, leverage a tool like Google Alerts to notify you as things happen or once a day.
Dependent on upon your settings, you can get various types of content delivered right to your inbox. You can choose to receive:
2. Research
Perhaps it goes without saying but we're saying it anyway. If you haven't done exhaustive research of your industry, trends, analyst insights and/or the competitors, you are selling yourself short in regards to having a holistic and well thought out content plan.
Subscribe to industry and competitor blogs to stay current with the types of content being created. Check out for example, this list of Top 12 Small Business Marketing Blogs.
Next is following "thought leaders". These folks specialize in reporting on your industry. They spend the hours each day you can't afford to researching, discussing and sharing the latest developments related to your industry.
Follow those who know your industry best on Twitter. Not only will you know what the influencers in your space are saying and therefore what your target audience is listening to, but you can also keep up-to-date with what they see as important by following their links.
3. Comment Marketing
Today's news stories don't end where the journalist stopped writing. Rather, the story continues in the comment section and/or on the publisher's Facebook page.
It's within the comments that you can see how people are responding, what questions they have and/or what types of insight they are adding to the topic.
Not only is this a great place to do some commenting of your own and get on the radar of the journalist, but very often you can find new content ideas. One way to do this is by compiling the questions posed (and citing who posed them) and writing a blog post to help provide additional insight. Once you get into the habit of paying attention to the news and finding ways to extract ideas for your own content, you will be well on your way to a holistic and strategic content plan.
Check out other PRWeb articles for additional ways to generate press release ideas.
Want to read even more on creating news releases? Download this free whitepaper, "Your Expert Guide to Writing Great Online News Releases".
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COLUMBIA,- The Senate passed a bill Wednesday aimed at boosting students' chances of success through an expansion of 4-year-old kindergarten and early intervention in reading.
Senators voted 36-6 on a compromise of the "Read to Succeed" bill, which united the agendas of the chambers' Republican and Democratic caucuses. After its passage, Senate Majority Leader Harvey Peeler gave a tearful speech at the podium.
"We're not doing it for us. We're doing it for the children in this state," said Peeler, R-Gaffney. "To the thousands of people in South Carolina who don't read too good, this is for you!"
The effort was personal, he said, though he declined to be specific.
The compromise combined Democrats' push to make 4-year-old kindergarten available to all at-risk students and Peeler's bill aimed at ensuring students can read by fourth grade. His called for a coordinated focus that includes reading coaches, summer reading camps and teacher training.
Beginning with the 2017-18 school year, students still struggling to read by the end of third grade would be held back for intensive help.
Democrats had refused to let the retention bill advance without the expansion of 4-year-old kindergarten, which they deemed essential to putting children on a path to success.
"This is a very, very proud day in this Senate," said Senate Minority Leader Nikki Setzler, D-West Columbia. "We're doing something right for future generations in South Carolina."
The bill would not immediately expand full-day 4-year-old kindergarten statewide.
All of the bill's provisions would be subject to funding by the Legislature. Last year, the Legislature put $26 million toward extending state-paid, full-day 4-year-old kindergarten to 17 additional school districts, increasing access to needy children in 53 districts statewide. Democrats have pushed for an expansion ever since legislators created a limited pilot in 2006 in response to a court order over education funding.
Setzler said the bill means the state will eventually further expand the program to cover the remaining 24,000 at-risk 4-year-olds.
"The earlier you invest in a child's education, the better equipped that child is for success and the more bang for the buck the taxpayers get," said state Sen. Vincent Sheheen, D-Camden.
How much the Legislature may spend to further expand access next school year is unclear. The Senate Finance Committee began its 2014-15 budget debate Tuesday.
As for the reading piece, the bulk of that funding is already in the House's budget plan, which adopted Gov. Nikki Haley's education recommendations. That includes $29 million for reading coaches in elementary schools, $6 million for summer reading camps and $2.5 million for testing the language skills of 4- and 5-year-olds to identify problems as they enter school.
The bill also requires public colleges to add courses in literacy instruction and require them for education majors. All current elementary school teachers would have to take graduate courses to earn a literacy credential. The courses could fulfill continuing-education requirements for recertification, so they wouldn't add to teachers' workload.
Notice about comments:
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Chicago Pol Apologizes After Video Surfaces Showing Strippers At His Bachelor Party — Which He Held In Same Building As His Office
Source: Philip Caufield / New York Daily News
A Chicago city councilman has apologized after a video surfaced showing strippers gyrating at a bachelor party held in the same building as his office.
Near the end of the 2:23 clip, Alderman Jason Ervin relaxes in a chair on a stage with his hands behind his head as rap music blares and strippers, seen only in silhouette, grind and writhe for several seated men.
Ervin, who represents the 28th Ward, admitted the video was taken at his bachelor party in 2012.
"Let me be clear, I never used City or campaign funds for this event. This event was not held in my Aldermanic or political office, but on another floor of the building, where neither City nor political funds are spent," Ervin said in the statement.
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Sunday's episode of I'm Married To A… introduced us to Dana, a television news producer who'll do almost anything for her husband–including literally carry him on her back. Married to Michael, a quadriplegic who is paralyzed from the chest down, the two may require a little more time to get ready in the morning, but remain committed to each other and the child they hope to have one day.
Through their extreme candor, we learned about the struggles quadriplegic's can face when it comes to conceiving, and watched as sat in doctor's offices, tossing around more than a few words that would make your mom blush. "I definitely never thought I'd say the words 'ejaculate' and 'vibrator' on national television," Dana says. With the episode's happy ending and positive test results–they can get pregnant!–what's next for the couple? VH1 spoke to Dana and Michael following Sunday's episode to find out how their lives have changed, and how soon we should start shopping for baby clothes.
What has the response been like since the episode aired?
Dana: Oh my goodness, I can't even keep up with all of the comments we have received on social media, on our blog, and all of the text messages I've received in the last week. I've heard from so many former co-workers, people I went to college and school with, even childhood friends. We have so many people supporting us and praying for us, it's amazing!
How did your family react when you told them you were going to be on TV?
D: They were all excited. Since I'm a TV news producer, I think everyone in my family has actually been on TV at one point or another, so they were all very excited for us, and did everything they could to be a part of it.
Did you have any reservations about putting your life on television?
D: The only reservation I had was worrying about how fat I would look on TV! Otherwise, no. We share our story openly on our blog on a regular basis, so putting ourselves out there is nothing new to us. In fact, I view being open as "free therapy," because it's through that that I've been able to make contact with so many other wives and girlfriends in my position, and I'm so glad. I used to feel so alone. Now I'm never alone!
How have things in your life changed since the episode aired?
D: When the episode was taped, we had only been in Virginia Beach for about two weeks, and I was just days into starting a new job. Now, we are settling in, and getting used to the demands of my new job, which comes with an overnight schedule. We are enjoying getting out and enjoying life with our dog, Brokaw, many friends who live in this area, and of course spending time with my family. Our life is full of joy. We are so happy here.


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Greetings pedal-happy tonemongers! To clean dirty pots, you will need a sprayWelcome back to Stomp School. This month, cleaner with lubricant in it. Do not usewe'll continue our discussion of basic trouble- WD- 40 or other types of household (or per-shooting and maintenance tips to help keep sonal) lubricants. You need to get a sprayyour pedal rig running smoothly. cleaner specifically formulated for cleaningpotentiometers and switches in electronicequipment. Radio Shack is the easiest placeto find it—they have a product with the
Most of us learn what's required to operate
our gear, but when something goes wrong,
we seem to be divided—some players have
a natural technical inclination, some learn
through trial and error or get tips from more
knowledgeable players, and then there are
the rest of us. I say "us" because I didn't
begin my playing career being a pedal guru.
Before working with Analog Mike, I spent
many years struggling in ignorance with my
gear, often discarding perfectly good pedals that only needed minor repair to work
properly. It pains me to recount this but when
I was 14 years old, I threw away my very first
stompbox—an original Ampeg Scrambler—
because I thought it was broken. I didn't know
it needed a battery to operate! I have plenty
more stories, but I think you get the idea.
Assuming that you've already checked your
cables and they're okay, the next thing to
check for is a loose connection at the power
jack. Make sure you're using the proper
power supply and that the tip fits snuggly into
the jack. Check the power jack itself as well,
to make sure it's not loose. Try wiggling the
power cable end while it's plugged into the
pedal to be sure the connection is solid.
So Analog Mike and I have come up with list
of survival tips for pedal-happy players everywhere. Before we get started, here are a few
simple tools and products you should probably keep handy:
• Contact cleaner
• Small Philips-head screwdriver
• Small flathead screwdriver
• Q-tips
• Chopstick or other non-conductive probe
• Soldering iron and solder
This is one of the most common problems
players have with pedals, and is usually
caused by dust and dirt inside the pot. Pedal
pots are way more susceptible than those
in guitars and amps, as pedals by their very
nature are subject to a certain amount of
abuse. If a pot gets really bad, it can even
make noise in certain stationary positions, as
well as when being turned. You can often get
a noisy pot working well enough by just turning it back and forth several times as fast as
possible over the entire range of the pot. This
will do in a pinch as a temporary quick fix. If
the noise continues to persist, the pot needs
to be cleaned.
If the power connection checks out okay,
the source of this problem is most likely with
the input or output jack. The jacks need to
be clean and have proper tension to work
properly. To clean dirty jacks, use a bit of the
contact cleaner referenced above on a Q-tip
to clean the internal jack connections, especially the rim of the jack, which makes the
ground contact. You can re-tension most jacks
by bending the tip contact inwards to apply
more pressure on the jack. The tip pressure is
important, as it also determines the pressure
of the rim for the ground connection. A bad
switch can also cause an intermittent signal
problem (except for those that use a momentary switch, such as a Boss or Ibanez type
pedal). If pressing the stomp switch several
times seems to cause or aggravate the problem, the switch should be replaced.
What we've discussed so far are some simple
basic procedures that any guitarist can easily
get the hang of. Next month, we'll get into
some more advanced maintenance and repair
tips, including how to troubleshoot a noisy
pedal, fixing loose or cold solder joints, and
more. So make sure you check back with us
next time. Until then, keep on stompin'!
unwieldy name of TV Tuner/Control Cleaner
& Lubricant. But our own personal preference
is Caig DeoxIT. A short, quick shot of cleaner
into the side of the pot is all that is needed,
then rotate the pot back and forth to work
the cleaner throughout the entire travel of the
pot. Remove any excess cleaner from the case
and solder lugs with a Q-tip. This routine will
solve the problem in most cases. If the pot is
still noisy, it should probably be replaced.
(a.k.a. Analog Tom) is the owner and proprietor of For
Musicians Only ( formusiciansonly.com) and author of
Analog Man's Guide To Vintage Effects. For Musicians
Only is also the home of the FMO Gear Shop.
Questions or comments about this article can be sent
to: email@example.com.
( analogman.com) is one of the largest boutique effects
manufacturers and retailers in the business, established by "Analog" Mike Piera in 1993. Mike can be
reached at email@example.com.


text:
First Day of Free Agency 7/1
Plenty of topics to discuss in the comments. Go ahead. I'll get started.
– Jaromir Jagr spurns Penguins, signs with Flyers.
If it hadn't been for all the histrionics (created by Jagr's people, the media and fans on the Internet), this wouldn't be that weird a story. Pittsburgh was looking for a veteran scorer on the cheap and tried to bring back one of its former stars but got outbid by about $1.3 million. That's just business. All the rest is just for show.
– Pittsburgh signs Steve Sullivan instead.
Veteran scorer on the cheap. If he stays healthy, he's a top-six winger and a good power play guy.
– Pittsburgh re-signs Tyler Kennedy.
Looks like he slots in as the second-line right wing. Is he ready for that role?
– Max Talbot signs with Philadelphia.
Players sign with rivals all the time, but you gotta admit seeing him in black and orange is going to look weird. The Flyers have been adding and subtracting pieces like crazy for a couple of weeks now. They've brought in some good players, but it's hard to get a feel for the overall vision they have in building a roster.
– Hershey fires the first shot in the AHL free agency race, signing Ryan Potulny and Matt Ford.
Potulny was awesome in the playoffs for Binghamton. He'll make the Bears more dangerous, for sure. The rest of the division will have to answer. Incidentally, Potulny got one of those two-way the first year, one-way the second year contracts.
– Columbus signed two of the top three AHL free agent goalies on my list (Curtis Sanford and Mark Dekanich).
Bye for now,


text:
By Samantha L. QuigleyAmerican Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Dec. 2, 2005 The goal of the National Strategy for Victory in Iraq is to create a secure, democratic country free of terrorists, the Defense Department's top policy official said here Dec. 1.
"I think we need to be very clear: Iraq's future will either embolden terrorists and expand their reach and ability to re-establish a caliphate, or it will deal them a crippling blow. For us, failure in Iraq is just not an option," Eric Edelman, undersecretary of defense for policy, said during a Council on Foreign Relations roundtable.
"The overall objective of our Iraq strategy is to help the Iraqi people build a new Iraq with a constitutional, representative government that respects civil rights and has security forces sufficient to maintain domestic order and to keep Iraq from becoming a safe haven for terrorists," Edelman said.
The eight objectives of the president's National Strategy for Victory in Iraq, released on Nov. 30, are pillars in the strategy guiding efforts to build a new Iraq, Edelman said.
"This is an integrated strategy. It includes efforts to foster political and economic development as well as effective and self-sustaining security forces," he said. "These are interrelated and mutually reinforcing efforts."
Security remains a difficult piece of the puzzle when it comes to rebuilding an Iraq that suffers from what Army Lt. Gen. Raymond Odierno called "societal devastation."
"We had to start from scratch," Odierno, assistant to the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and former commander of the 4th Infantry Division during its deployment to Iraq, said. "You have to rebuild a military and you have to rebuild a police force in order to be capable to both deal with internal and external threats."
The Iraqi forces are not yet at that point, though conditions have been set for a transfer of security to them. And their capabilities are significantly increased over what they were a year ago, Odierno said.
"So part of this victory strategy is to allow the Iraqis to do this on their own," he said. "And it's going to take patience, and it's going to take time."
Military and police transition teams are being employed to speed the development of security forces in Iraq. These teams walk the Iraqis through how the U.S. believes military operations should be conducted along the lines of international law and moral convictions, Odierno said. It also will expose them to the U.S. way of military building.
All of this will take time. "It's not going to happen overnight," Odierno said, explaining that Iraqi security forces were raised under very different conditions from their Western coalition counterparts. "It's education. It's leadership training and we have these programs established and they continue to grow. And I think that the interaction with coalition forces is helping."
Edelman said strides have also been made on Iraq's political and economic fronts.
"The free and democratic elections held this past January and the (Oct. 15) referendum ... were significant steps forward," Edelman said. Whatever flaws the Iraqi constitution might have are overshadowed by "one huge, positive characteristic: It was written by Iraqis, for Iraqis and was voted on by Iraqis," he said.
Isolating rejectionists and getting all Iraqi communities involved in the political process will go even further toward the achieving a victory in Iraq, he noted.
The economic aspect of the National Strategy for Victory in Iraq focuses on helping the country restore its crumbling infrastructure, Edelman said. Economic reform, transparency and accountability also are key to economic success in Iraq Again, progress has already been made in this area, he said.
"According to the (International Monetary Fund), Iraq's (gross domestic product) is expected to grow at a rate of 3.7 percent for 2005 and nearly 17 percent in 2006," he said, adding that inflation is in check and not hampering economic growth.
The Paris Club, which helps nations find sustainable solutions to repaying debt, also has come to an agreement with the country, Edelman said. That could lead to as much as an 80 percent reduction in Iraq's Paris Club debt accrued during the Saddam era.
"There are many challenges as we move forward helping Iraq economically. Much of Iraq's infrastructure requires repair or replacement," he said. "Iraq will need to undertake difficult economic reforms, including reducing subsidies for electricity and petroleum products."
Iraqis and coalition forces alike are optimistic about the future of Iraq, he said.
"I think when one considers the challenges that Iraq faces -- not the least (of which is) overcoming the political and social effects of three-and-a-half decades of monstrous tyranny -- what is most impressive to me is not how much remains for them to do, but rather how far they have come in less than three years," Edelman said.
Related Sites:National Strategy for Victory in Iraq:
Related Articles:Bush: Clear Strategy Will Ensure Victory in Iraq


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2 Cents Worth Down Under.
Explore everything from Porn & People to Faith & Friends with me. Oh.. and some Wonder Woman!
I must be in a slutty mood... this one got my Dick to rise!
one word: WOOF! and ditto to Queer Heaven
YUM! I agree with Queer Heaven...
Post a Comment


text:
Best iPhone and iPad apps to help you learn a new language!
Whether you're learning a language for the very first time or just want to brush up, these are the very best language learning apps for iPhone and iPad!
Looking for the best iPhone apps and Best iPad apps to help you learn a new language? No matter what language you want to learn, there are hundreds of options available in the App Store. Whether you're getting ready to travel the world or just feel it's important to know another language, it's never too late to learn. Luckily, the days of having to pay hundreds and hundreds of dollars for online or tape courses are long gone. However, that doesn't mean all language learning apps are created equal. These are the language learning apps for iPhone and iPad that we think are the absolute best!
Duolingo turns learning a foreign language into a game. The more answers you get correct, the more XP and Lingots, a form of in-game currency, you'll earn. You can also duel against friends if you choose. The main way Duolingo aims to teach you a foreign language is by repetition, conversation, and audibly speaking. If you go several days without completing any lessons, your skill level will fall and you'll have to go back and strengthen those skills again. This method means you stay motivated to practice regularly. Currently Duolingo offers free courses in Spanish, French, German, Portuguese, Italian, and English and can sync your progress between both iPhone and iPad.
For a completely awesome, completely free way to start learning a new language, Duolingo is what you want.
- Free - Download Now
Memrise currently supports Chinese, French, German, Italian, Portuguese, Russian, and Spanish completely for free. For those that are visual learners, Memrise should be right up your alley since it uses visual cues and puns to help you learn phrases and words. Each word or phrase is paired with memorable cartoons, sentences, or phrases that should help you remember what that particular phrase means. Typically each one has multiples so you can choose the one that sticks in your mind the best. Each time you've learned a few new words, Memrise then quizzes you on what you've covered to keep everything fresh in your mind.
Memrise is an excellent option for anyone who learns better through visual cues.
- Free - Download Now
Learn Languages with Babbel
Babbel offers a series of different apps that let you learn many different languages including Spanish, French, German, Italian, Portuguese, Dutch, and more. Much like Duolingo, Babbel uses a combination of repetition, completing phrases, and repeating back phrases. You can set custom learning goals as well so you can stay on track. All your progress will also be synced between iPhone, iPad, and on the web so you can pick up where you left off from anywhere. To use Babbel to its full potential, you'll need a subscription which starts at around $11 a month for each language.
Babbel costs more than other options but offers a great way to learn and lots more advanced content.
- Free w/ subscription - Download Now
Note: Not all languages are included in the Learn Languages app. Many other languages are also available as standalone apps. You can view all languages available by Babbel on their developer page.
Living Language courses
The Living Language series by Random House offers many apps covering many languages spanning from Italian and English to Hindi and Korean. All courses have the same main interface and focus on completing sentences, learning new words, and testing your skills periodically. What I like about the Living Language series is that you can purchase a full course or individual sections. For example, perhaps you know enough of a language to bypass introductory courses. You can just buy the ones you need instead and save yourself a little money. The Living Language series is one of the only ones I could find that supported Arabic as well.
If you're just brushing up on a language or want more control over what you're paying for, the Living Language series of apps is a great choice.
- Free - Download Now
Note: Not all languages are included in the course pack above. You can view all the language apps in the Living Language series via their developer page.
Learn Chinese by Brainscape
Learn Chinese (Mandarin) by Brainscape is not only beautifully designed, the layout makes it a lot easier to write and draw symbols. The hardest part of learning a language that requires you to draw symbols is having enough space on the screen that you don't feel awkward. This is something Brainscape has nailed rather well. There are also immensely helpful stroke order lessons that show you the most efficient and effective ways to draw symbols. There are also basic word and grammar lessons along with 5,500 flashcards. You can try Learn Chinese for 3 days and then you have the option to unlock all content for a $19.99 one-time purchase.
If you are trying to learn Mandarin Chinese, then Learn Chinese by Brainscape is an absolute must-have app.
- Free w/ in-app purchase - Download Now
Your favorite language learning apps for iPhone and iPad?
If you're currently learning a new language or you're brushing up on one you perhaps started to learn in school, what apps have you found helpful? Be sure to let me know in the comments!
Have something to say about this story? Leave a comment! Need help with something else? Ask in our forums!
Reader comments
Best iPhone and iPad apps to help you learn a new language!
A good one for Japanese is Human Japanese. They recently added an intermediary course, many apps only do beginner level. Has apps for iPhone, iPad and Mac (and Windows & Android) http://www.humanjapanese.com/home
Thanks for the suggestion! Japanese and Chinese were hard to find anything "good" on
Great idea. I've been meaning to "re-learn" French after the 5 years I took in middle/high school. All I really remember is "Je m'appelle Guy, ça va?" - even though my name is not Guy (or, as it was pronounced, Gee).
And that was day one of 7th grade...
Plus, thinking globally, won't hurt to learn Spanish and Chinese.
Sent from the iMore App
Yeah I took 6 years of French between HS and college - when we were in France over the holidays it was apparent how much I forgot - so i'm current brushing up and re-learning things too!
I've tried Duolingo quite a bit and wouldn't recommend it. It suffers from a problem many language learning apps do, in that it doesn't teach grammar or explain anything, it's really just for learning vocab. It also relies on crude speech synthesis rather than actual recordings, so if you're basing your pronunciation in how Duolingo says things, well. good luck with that.
A better flashcard type app is Living Language (they have variants for many languages). The Mind Snacks apps are also quite fun for a more game like vocab booster.
If you really want to learn a new language, try podcasts, or podcasts with accompanying apps, such as Innovative Language Learning. (this one of course, is far from free)
I love the Innovative Languages 101 app that goes with their courses. You will need a subscription to the online site, but if you are serious about learning a new language then it's worth it. The app let you download any course materials including the audio for learning on the go. It syncs back with the online site (and other devices including Android). The courses rock and they offer at the moment something like 33 different languages you can choose to learn. Compared to the cost of Rosetta Stone courses the monthly subscription can be a steal and they offer sales all the time (I have yet to pay for premium access at the full price and I'm paid through next year with the deals they have offered lately.
I use ThaiPod 101 to learn Thai and their companion Innovative app is pretty good but you need a subscription. Talking Word Search is helping me to memorise pronunciations and spellings and it's free to use . I'll try a few on this list out too, but finding good apps that support Thai is quite difficult.


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The USCG Barque Eagle and still an active commissioned sailing tall ship for the United States Coast Guard for active American military service. The Eagle has quite a colorful history and yet is still in service today. She is a 295 foot cutter used in training for future Coast Guard officers.
The Eagle began as a German ship the SSS Horst Wessel. She served as a the flagship of the Kriegsmarine of the sail training fleet. The fleet was made up of the Gorch Fock, Albert Leo Schlageter and the SSS Horst Wessel. Her captain was August Thiele and preformed a number of training cruises the Caribbean and European waters before World War II. By 1939 she was decommissioned and served as a docked training ship.
Desperate the Germans re-commissioned in 1942 and put her back in service. Armament was added; she received 2 20mm antiaircraft guns mounted on her bridge wings. Two more were mounted on her foredeck plus 2 quad mounts on her waist.
Her combat experience consisted of shooting down three Soviet aircraft and one of their own German fighters in friendly fire. They recognized the the fighter while it was spiraling down into the sea. They claimed the pilot was using the wrong code signal for the battle group.
By Wars end the four ships given to other countries as War Reparations. The United States received the Horst Wessel and was commissioned into the United States Coast Guard as the Cutter Eagle on May 15th 1946.
The Cutter Eagle is the seventh ship the bear the name going back to 1792 for the U.S. Navy or Coast Guard. Still in service today cadets from the United States Coast Guard Academy sail her for a week up to two months at a time as part of their training.
The crew of the Eagle consists of 6 officers and 56 enlisted men and women. Training missions the complement on the average carries 12 officers and up to 68 crew and as many as 150 more cadets.
Over her many years of service the Eagle has made stops in most ports in the United States and overseas. The Eagle joins in the Tall Ship races and events and one of the most notable was the American Bicentennial OpSail of 1976.
A real beauty to behold with fine lines and well cared for a model of the Eagle would make a fine addition to anyone collection. With a colorful history like the eagle and to still be in service is amazing.
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text:
Parallel Verses
New International Version
"But blessed is the one who trusts in the LORD, whose confidence is in him.
New Living Translation
"But blessed are those who trust in the LORD and have made the LORD their hope and confidence.
English Standard Version
"Blessed is the man who trusts in the LORD, whose trust is the LORD.
New American Standard Bible
"Blessed is the man who trusts in the LORD And whose trust is the LORD.
King James Bible
Blessed is the man that trusteth in the LORD, and whose hope the LORD is.
Holman Christian Standard Bible
The man who trusts in the LORD, whose confidence indeed is the LORD, is blessed.
International Standard Version
Blessed is the person who trusts in the LORD, making the LORD his trust.
NET Bible
My blessing is on those people who trust in me, who put their confidence in me.
GOD'S WORD® Translation
Blessed is the person who trusts the LORD. The LORD will be his confidence.
Jubilee Bible 2000
Blessed is the man that is steadfast in the LORD and whose trust is the LORD.
King James 2000 Bible
Blessed is the man that trusts in the LORD, and whose hope the LORD is.
American King James Version
Blessed is the man that trusts in the LORD, and whose hope the LORD is.
American Standard Version
Blessed is the man that trusteth in Jehovah, and whose trust Jehovah is.
Douay-Rheims Bible
Blessed be the man that trusteth in the Lord, and the Lord shall be his confidence.
Darby Bible Translation
Blessed is the man that confideth in Jehovah, and whose confidence Jehovah is.
English Revised Version
Blessed is the man that trusteth in the LORD, and whose hope the LORD is.
Webster's Bible Translation
Blessed is the man that trusteth in the LORD, and whose hope the LORD is.
World English Bible
Blessed is the man who trusts in Yahweh, and whose trust Yahweh is.
Young's Literal Translation
Blessed is the man who trusteth in Jehovah, And whose confidence hath been Jehovah.
Parallel CommentariesMatthew Henry's Concise Commentary
17:5-11 He who puts confidence in man, shall be like the heath in a desert, a naked tree, a sorry shrub, the product of barren ground, useless and worthless. Those who trust to their own righteousness and strength, and think they can do without Christ, make flesh their arm, and their souls cannot prosper in graces or comforts. Those who make God their Hope, shall flourish like a tree always green, whose leaf does not wither. They shall be fixed in peace and satisfaction of mind; they shall not be anxious in a year of drought. Those who make God their Hope, have enough in him to make up the want of all creature-comforts. They shall not cease from yielding fruit in holiness and good works. The heart, the conscience of man, in his corrupt and fallen state, is deceitful above all things. It calls evil good, and good evil; and cries peace to those to whom it does not belong. Herein the heart is desperately wicked; it is deadly, it is desperate. The case is bad indeed, if the conscience, which should set right the errors of other faculties, is a leader in the delusion. We cannot know our own hearts, nor what they will do in an hour of temptation. Who can understand his errors? Much less can we know the hearts of others, or depend upon them. He that believes God's testimony in this matter, and learns to watch his own heart, will find this is a correct, though a sad picture, and learns many lessons to direct his conduct. But much in our own hearts and in the hearts of others, will remain unknown. Yet whatever wickedness there is in the heart, God sees it. Men may be imposed upon, but God cannot be deceived. He that gets riches, and not by right, though he may make them his hope, never shall have joy of them. This shows what vexation it is to a worldly man at death, that he must leave his riches behind; but though the wealth will not follow to another world, guilt will, and everlasting torment. The rich man takes pains to get an estate, and sits brooding upon it, but never has any satisfaction in it; by sinful courses it comes to nothing. Let us be wise in time; what we get, let us get it honestly; and what we have, use it charitably, that we may be wise for eternity.
Gill's Exposition of the Entire Bible
Blessed is the man that trusteth in the Lord,.... In the Word of the Lord, as the Targum, in Christ the essential Word of God; see Psalm 2:12 who have a spiritual knowledge of him, and so trust in him, Psalm 9:10 who have seen the vanity and emptiness of all other objects of trust, there being no salvation in them, only in him; who betake themselves to him as their only refuge; lay hold, rest, and rely upon him, as their Saviour; commit their all unto him; trust him with all their concerns, respecting life and salvation, and with their immortal souls; and expect all from him, grace here, and glory hereafter: who trust in his person for their acceptance with God; in his righteousness for their justification; in his blood for the pardon of their sins; in his fulness for the supply of their wants; in his power for protection and preservation; and in all for eternal life and happiness: and such are blessed persons; for they are in the utmost safety; they are as Mount Zion, which can never be removed; they shall want no good thing, temporal or spiritual, proper for them; they enjoy great peace now, and in the world to come everlasting glory:
and whose hope the Lord is; the Word of the Lord, according to the Targum, as before: Christ, who is the Hope of Israel, our hope, and Christ in us the hope of glory, Jeremiah 14:8, whose hope is from the Lord, of which he is the author and giver; and is a good hope, through his grace; and which has the Lord Jesus Christ for its object; who turn in to him as prisoners of hope; and lay hold on him, the hope set before them; and do hope in him for pardoning mercy, salvation, and eternal life. Blessed men! their hope shall not make them ashamed; they shall not be disappointed, Psalm 146:5.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
7. (Ps 34:8; Pr 16:20; Isa 30:18). Jeremiah first removed the weeds (false trusts), so that there might be room for the good grain [Calvin].
Jeremiah 17:7 Additional Commentaries
The Sin and Punishment of Judah
…6"For he will be like a bush in the desert And will not see when prosperity comes, But will live in stony wastes in the wilderness, A land of salt without inhabitant. 7"Blessed is the man who trusts in the LORD And whose trust is the LORD. 8"For he will be like a tree planted by the water, That extends its roots by a stream And will not fear when the heat comes; But its leaves will be green, And it will not be anxious in a year of drought Nor cease to yield fruit.…
Cross References
Psalm 2:12
Kiss his son, or he will be angry and your way will lead to your destruction, for his wrath can flare up in a moment. Blessed are all who take refuge in him.
Psalm 34:8
Taste and see that the LORD is good; blessed is the one who takes refuge in him.
Psalm 40:4
Blessed is the one who trusts in the LORD, who does not look to the proud, to those who turn aside to false gods.
Psalm 71:5
For you have been my hope, Sovereign LORD, my confidence since my youth.
Psalm 84:12
LORD Almighty, blessed is the one who trusts in you.
Psalm 146:5
Blessed are those whose help is the God of Jacob, whose hope is in the LORD their God.
Proverbs 16:20
Whoever gives heed to instruction prospers, and blessed is the one who trusts in the LORD.
Isaiah 61:3
and provide for those who grieve in Zion-- to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of joy instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair. They will be called oaks of righteousness, a planting of the LORD for the display of his splendor.
Jeremiah 39:18
I will save you; you will not fall by the sword but will escape with your life, because you trust in me, declares the LORD.'"
Daniel 3:28
Then Nebuchadnezzar said, "Praise be to the God of Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego, who has sent his angel and rescued his servants! They trusted in him and defied the king's command and were willing to give up their lives rather than serve or worship any god except their own God.
Treasury of Scripture
Blessed is the man that trusts in the LORD, and whose hope the LORD is.
Psalm 2:12 Kiss the Son, lest he be angry, and you perish from the way, when …
Psalm 34:8 O taste and see that the LORD is good: blessed is the man that trusts in him.
Psalm 84:12 O LORD of hosts, blessed is the man that trusts in you.
Psalm 125:1 They that trust in the LORD shall be as mount Zion, which cannot …
Psalm 146:5 Happy is he that has the God of Jacob for his help, whose hope is …
Proverbs 16:20 He that handles a matter wisely shall find good: and whoever trusts …
Isaiah 26:3,4 You will keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on you: …
Isaiah 30:18 And therefore will the LORD wait, that he may be gracious to you, …
Ephesians 1:12 That we should be to the praise of his glory, who first trusted in Christ.
Jump to PreviousBlessed Blessing Confidence Confideth Faith Hope Puts Trust Trusteth Trusts
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Alphabetical: And blessed But confidence him in is LORD man the trust trusts who whose
OT Prophets: Jeremiah 17:7 Blessed is the man who trusts (Jer.) Christian Bible Study Resources, Dictionary, Concordance and Search Tools
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Star Trek: Typhon Pact: The Struggle Within (ebook) review thread
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October 5 2011, 10:29 PM
Rear Admiral
Location: Washington, DC
Re: Star Trek: Typhon Pact: The Struggle Within (ebook) review thread
I feel like it was a really great Christopher novel sadly compressed down to an outline + moral lectures. A story that could really have demonstrated all the stuff it wanted to, but was prevented from doing so by rushed pacing.
Doesn't help that such a short story was priced at $6. I'd have really enjoyed paying $6 to read this story done well. Paying for this feels like...paying for a work in progress. Bleh.
It did, on the other hand, manage to do what I'd been hoping for from the whole Typhon Pact but got very little of, which was show how involvement in the Pact was changing the members of the Pact. So nice job there. And I liked that it referenced all the earlier Pact books, and I love the Tzenkethi sooooo much (they were the highlight of Rough Beasts for me, and kicked ass here again), and Jasminder's character arc was awesome (though Christopher does rely a bit much on having characters decide that their earlier characterizations by other authors were wrong and they need to get better, but I digress), and it was certainly thematically appropriate to recent events.
But MAN I really wanted a novel. And this should've been one. I felt the same way about Places of Exile, but this was like 12x as bad. It would seem Christopher just thinks too big for this kind of story size.
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