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September 20, 2012
Statement for the Commission on Security and Cooperation in Europe
by Mamuka Tsereteli
Georgia is part of Europe, but it lies on Europe's strategic borderland. What affects Georgia will ultimately be reflected in Europe. The Georgian population has expressed multiple times, in referendums and polls, its desire to join Trans-Atlantic and European security and economic institutions. Meanwhile Georgia is one of the largest contributors of troops to coalition forces in Afghanistan, serving in the areas with heavy insurgent activities and facing an increasing number of casualties. One need look only at Georgia's volatile neighborhood to understand its centrality to many of today's most pressing security questions. Europe and the United States should thus have a strong interest in the stability of Georgia, and they should encourage Georgia to build a robust liberal-democratic political system based on free markets within the context of unique and distinctive cultural heritage and traditions.
Georgia made visible progress in creating functioning state entities, reducing regulatory burdens, developing critical infrastructure and eliminating bribery in bureaucracy. These are distinct achievements. The Georgian people and government deserve credit for those achievements.
Russia's occupation of Georgian territories, including areas very close to the capital Tbilisi, creates an oppressive environment, characterized by the constant threat of another military intervention that could undermine the stability of entire region. Georgia's limited defense capabilities are no match for Russia's power in the region, and the EU monitoring mission (EUMM) has very limited capability to ensure the security in the areas adjacent to Russian military units. The Russian invasion of Georgia in August 2008 demonstrated that Russia is willing to use force against its neighbors. At the same time, Russia's military presence in the South Caucasus makes Russia itself less secure
The Russian factor has two important meanings—often in contradiction—for Georgia. First, the Russian threat is real, as this Russian leadership does not wish Georgia well, no matter who leads it. The probability of a future Russian military invasion is something every Georgian understands and has to live with. Second, because this reality is so strong in Georgia's political culture, the threat of Russian intervention has become a powerful political instrument for influencing Georgia's internal politics. Put another way, the Russian threat can be easily and powerfully manipulated for political gain by Georgia's political actors.
Internal stability is essential for Georgia's security. Stability can only be achieved if the political process creates an environment of broader political representation in the government. Leaders all around the world—heads of states, international institutions, US politicians, leadership of NATO, friends of Georgia—see the upcoming election on October 1 as an important milestone in building Georgia's democratic statehood. Many have called on Georgia to make certain that voters have an opportunity to express their free choice, and once that is achieved, to make sure that results of the elections are respected by the participants in the political process.
Domestic Political Context Before 2012
In recent years the Georgian political scene has been completely dominated by the United National Movement of Georgia, or UNM, that is the party of President Mikheil Saakasvili. The UNM has won a constitutional majority in the parliamentary elections of May 2008, which has de-facto created one party rule in Georgia. In fact, Georgia has been ruled by the UNM with no significant opposition since 2004. Moreover developments after 2008 elections effectively eliminated debate and political collaboration from the Georgian scene. This has led to many harmful internal and external decisions by the Georgian leadership, which has responded to criticism by suppressing opposition with increasingly excessive force.
In this context the recent release of shocking videos of torture and abuse of prisoners prove what was said many times by human rights organizations, and partly reflected by the US Department of State annual reports on human rights. Georgia's prison system, as well as its pre-trial detention mechanism, is a potent factor in Georgian social and political life, which impacts the daily lives of thousands of Georgians and their decisions about how they deal with the government, as well as on how they approach elections. There is fear of state in Georgia. Some government officials assessed prison abuse case as "systemic problem". This is a moral failure as well. Georgian society is shocked by the facts of abuse of power, and maybe cover-up that involved high level officials, and demands full scale investigation. These abuses can only happen in an environment of unchecked and unbalanced power, such as what exists in Georgia today. This case increases importance of upcoming elections.
In all previous elections in Georgia, incumbents have enjoyed the advantages of being able to employ the administrative tools of power, as well as greater financial resources. For example, during the 2010 mayoral elections in Capital city Tbilisi, the UNM candidate and incumbent spent 100 times more money (14 million Georgian lari, or about $8 million) then the oppositional candidate, who finished second in the race. After the elections of 2010, the handful of businesses who contributed to the opposition's campaign were hit with large and unfair tax penalties, effectively driving them out of political process.
One positive development during the 2010 election was establishment of the intergovernmental task force prior to the elections. The Task Force was assigned to detect and respond to all violations of electoral law. The work of Task force was praised by opposition as well and the model was reintroduced again for the upcoming elections. The Inter-Agency Commission (IAC) was established on May 18 as a temporary state body to pro-actively address allegations of election law violations.
Current Pre-Election Dynamics
In October of 2011 Mr. Bidzina Ivanishvili, billionaire and philanthropist, who also was major donor for the Georgian government since the 2003 Rose Revolution, decided to enter politics, where he began to consolidate almost the entire Georgian oppositional spectrum into the Georgian Dream political coalition. Georgia is a small country and in normal circumstances the magnitude of Mr. Ivanishvili's wealth could be seen as distorting and damaging to the political process in the country. But in Georgia's reality, it became the only way to recreate the competitive political process.
In his first political statement, Mr. Ivanishvili announced that he was inviting pro-Western political forces of Free Democrats, led by former Georgian Ambassador to the UN Irakli Alasania, and Republican Party, to become the core for his new political force. There is no doubt, that this opened space for many pro-Western politicians to compete in the 2012.
Mr. Ivanishvili and members of his coalition have emphasized repeatedly that their goal is to change the existing government by political means, through parliamentary elections.
Immediately after his decision to enter politics, the UNM-controlled parliament passed a new election finance law. Mr. Ivanishvili became the target of political and financial intimidation. He was fined multiple times by the UNM-dominated courts for alleged violations of election finance law, though little was actually proved. Fines reached such a level and generated such negative publicity that international monitors of the pre-election process issued strong criticisms for the responsible government agency. The Council of Europe (PACE) co-rapporteurs Michael Aastrup Jensen of Denmark and Boriss Cilevi?s of Latvia wrote in a statement on August 21 that the seizure of the Georgian Dream's bank accounts and "the excessive and disproportionate fines levied by the State Audit Service effectively undermine normal political activity by an opposition party." On August 22 OSCE Parliamentary Assembly's pre-election observation mission, made up of OSCE Parliamentary Assembly's leadership, also expressed concerns over "disproportionate" and "harsh" penalties of Georgia's judiciary system. OSCE PA representatives expressed hope that in the final weeks of the campaign ahead of the October 1 parliamentary elections the Georgian authorities would create "a level playing field for all parties".
Following those statements visible changes emerged in the policies of State Audit Agency. Enforcement of the previous decisions were halted following recommendations of the Inter-Agency Commission (IAC). IAC also stepped up its efforts to deal with violations of the campaign law by the supporters of the UNM. While polarization in the society and tensions between two major political groups is growing, the electoral environment from the point of view of fairness is showing some signs of improvement.
Fundamental Problems for Elections:
Use of administrative resources: There is no clear dividing line between the ruling party and the state. Resources of the state, as well as state employees are frequently used to support UNM's pre-election efforts. This issue is mentioned by the OSCE's observer mission's interim report.
Number of voters: There has been no population census in Georgia since 2002. Officially the number of voters stands at 3,621,256 (largest number of voters in Georgia in last twenty years), while the official number of Georgian citizens is about 4.4 million. These numbers are highly questionable. The number of Georgians who emigrate is growing, estimated to be around one million. As of today fewer than 50,000 people are eligible to vote in embassies and consulates of Georgia in different countries, which leaves a large number of eligible voters beyond the electoral process. According to expert assessments, Georgia cannot claim more than 3 million resident voters. The discrepancy between what is claimed and what is the more likely reality offers opportunities to manipulate the electoral process.
Media Freedom: TV is the main source of information for greater majority of Georgians, but TV space is dominated by Government-controlled TV stations. Following recommendations of the international community and after implementation of the principle of Must Carry, 215,000 viewers received an opportunity to have access to alternative sources of information. Even after that, independent, not-government controlled media reaches only a limited (about 20-25%) portion of the electorate. The government is still holding tens of thousands of satellite dishes imported by independent TV station Maestro TV for distribution.
What Shall the US Do?
· - Stay actively engaged in Georgia as an impartial observer and facilitator of the development. Success of Georgia is essential for the US strategic interests in the broader Middle East-Central Asia region.
· - Entertain a frank public discussion about the state of democracy in Georgia. Georgia has made some progress, and the current government has done some good things for the country, but the narrative that stresses Georgia's liberal credentials needs to be recast in light of some significant democratic shortfalls. Monitor closely unfolding details of the current prison system crisis and investigation.
· - Establish strict conditions and benchmarks for the Georgian government to ensure that elections are held in a free environment. Election monitors from the U.S. Government would be useful. The US should communicate to the Georgian leadership that if there are doubts about the legitimacy of the elections the US will not recognize its results. Plan to hold another congressional hearing after the elections to review progress. And announce this in advance of the elections.
· - The US needs to monitor developments after the election as well. The election process may not end by the night of October 1. It is possible that the results of the elections in several districts will be disputed, and recounts may be requested. In order to avoid confrontation it is important that there is a process of mediation through OSCE or other monitoring groups, and the US participation in the process will significantly increase trust and confidence of the parties.
· - Mount a serious effort to review the state of Georgia's media, ensuring access to the alternative sources of information throughout the entire country. Insist on the immediate release of satellite dishes confiscated by the government. Advising adding international representatives to the Georgian National Communication Commission, then closely monitoring its operations would be positive steps.
Georgia has a potential to become democratic state, full-fledged member of the Trans-Atlantic family of nations. That potential needs to be accelerated and deepened. The up-coming elections need to be seen from that perspective. Proper conduct of elections will get Georgia closer to that goal. Mismanagement of the elections may throw Georgia back for years, or maybe even decades.
In the 1940s, after travelling to Georgia John Steinbeck wrote: "It is a magical place, Georgia, and it becomes dream-like the moment you have left it. And the people are magic people. It is true that they have one of the richest and most beautiful countries in the world, and they live up to it". The Georgian people are capable of deciding the right path for their future. Free and fair elections will give them that opportunity.


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Kidnapped and Converted
Protecting the Rights Coptic Women and Girls in the New Egypt
Hearing at the Helsinki Commission
United States Congress
"The Strategy of subduing a community by terrorizing its women"
Dr Walid Phares
Mr. Chairman and distinguished members of the Helsinki Commission of the United States Congress,
Thank you for inviting me to testify today before this august body on the highly provocative and compelling issue of ongoing violence against Coptic women in Egypt, in the form of kidnappings, rape and forced religious conversions.
1. Violence Against Coptic Women in Egypt
As many experts have already testified before this prestigious forum over the past few years, and last year in particular, individual acts of violence against Egyptian Coptic women, both individually and collectively, have been unrelenting, repetitive, and directed almost exclusively at young single women at of marriage age or under.
This violence, which is described in several reports already submitted to your commission, committees in the House and Senate, as well as to international legislatures that include the European Parliament, House of Lords, and French National Assembly, reveal some disturbing trends:
a. The attacks have been ongoing for more than three decades, with peaks in some years.
b. The victims are primarily young Christian women.
c. Egyptian security and judicial authorities have not helped the families of these girls by trying to rescue or recover them.
d. An overwhelming majority of the kidnappings and violence have been carried out by individuals and groups who claim to be acting on their belief in an ideology, a doctrine, a set of fundamental beliefs known as Salafism or Jihadism which they claim is the strict implementation of shariah laws.
e. An overwhelming majority of these crimes have been dismissed by government security and justice institutions, and the radical factions have been protecting the perpetrators, assigning blame to the female victims and their families.
f. Violence against young Christian women in Egypt has continued after the downfall of the previous regime, and formation of the current alternative Government and its institutions.
These findings prompt the following questions:
a. Have the attacks been widespread and consistently over time? Is the history of these attacks reflective of the legal and security status of the Coptic Christian community?
b. Is the violence committed by an organized movement or by individuals who claim to be acting on behalf of an ideological movement?
c. Does the attitude of government security, judicial, and political institutions reflect cooperation with the attackers, or at least neglect of a segment of Egyptian society?
d. What are the consequences of the continuous attacks against Coptic females, and thus the Coptic community, despite the regime change and rise of new institutions in Egypt?
e. What can and should the United States Government, particularly the Administration, to put an end to these violent practices against the women of the Christian Coptic community?
Answering these questions will equip members of the Commission and thus of Congress with the perspective needed to understand the exact nature of the crisis and make informed recommendations regarding possible new legislation and alternative policies for adoption by the Executive Branch.
2. The nature of the attacks
According to prior research submitted to your commission and other Congressional committees and legislatures around the world, targeted attacks against Coptic Christian women are not unrelated and isolated acts of violence. On the contrary, kidnapping and forcing captive women to convert to Islam has been documented for decades, revealing hundreds of victims each year. Research and Coptic sources claim that violence against Coptic women has been practiced since before the rise of modern Egypt. Research also confirms at that this abuse was documented for at least the last decade, especially in the past five years. Therefore, the first characteristic of the crisis is its longstanding history. This means that any solution to the problem must address its historical roots and scope of the violence. Christian Coptic women and girls have been forced from their homes, streets, and neighborhoods prior to and after the Arab Spring, before and after 9/11, and before and after the Cold War ended. Accordingly, this phenomenon is part a larger global crisis that has stricken the Coptic community under varying governments and regimes. This community, as research and previous hearings have demonstrated, is facing global pressure from extremist elements in the Jihadist and Islamist movements, particularly the Salafists, for years, if not for decades. The attacks against Christian Coptic women and the Christian Coptic community coincide in time line and are consistent with the motives with the acts of violence perpetrated against Coptic targets across Egypt at the hands of extremist elements from Al-Gama'a al-Islamiyya and the Salafists.
As stated earlier, the attacks have targeted the female Coptic community, particularly younger women who are of the age to marry (and in some instances just about) which begs the question about the long range motive and the political identity of the network of perpetrators. The juxtaposition of well-documented attacks against the Coptic community generally, and young women in particular, reveal an historical pattern of violence against several segments of the Coptic community, including women, youth people, churches and public figures. These actions—also per research, archives and reports—are perpetrated by the same network of militants, from the Jihadi, Salafist and Islamist movements in Egypt.
3. The perpetrators
While research over the past five years has not revealed a well-designed structure that officially takes responsibility for the attacks against Coptic Christian women, it has shown patterns and statements that indicate the existence of a movement that hails from a well-publicized ideology, namely, Salafist or Islamist fundamentalism, or Jihadism. A thorough review of public records in Egypt, online resources, and past reports submitted to Congress and other legislative bodies around the world, and interviews with the families of the kidnapped victims, reveals a clear picture of the group behind the acts of violence. In almost all cases, the kidnappers argued that their actions were legitimized and inspired by Salafist and jihadist principles. One central tenet of those principles is that individuals -in this case, females- who convert from Christianity to Islam cannot revert back to their original religion, must accept their (forced marriage). In some cases, families of the victims were asked to pay a tribute to recover their daughters.
The reference to Islamist or jihadist views, applicable to Christian Copts in general and women and girls in particular, shows that the acts perpetrated against them and their communities are ideologically and politically motivated, and carried out by men—in some cases with the help of females— are not necessarily formally linked to one central organization. But the hundreds of acts of violence have one pattern in common: a reference to the legitimacy of the violent action. While forbidden by Egyptian law, kidnapping and converting Coptic females was defended by the Salafists as an acceptable behavior. The supporters of such violence often indicate that the girls or women have been open to such conversion or have since accepted it, thus legitimizing the original illegal act of kidnapping. The repetition of the same arguments and scenarios indicates that the movement behind these practices, Salafists, Islamist Fundamentalists, and Jihadists, perceives their actions to be acceptable as a matter of policy and doctrine, thus inspiring more perpetrators to engage in the practice.
4. Government failure and Collaboration
In parallel, reports by human rights groups as well as Coptic community and liberal Egyptian NGOs, have openly accused local Egyptian police and security forces, national security agencies, including the defunct state security agency "amn al dawla," of either covering up the attacks, or protecting the perpetrators. Human rights and Coptic Christian reports and media describe the assistance provided to kidnappers by security police is exhibited in the rough and negative attitude displayed toward the families of the victims.
The historical timeline of security collaboration with the perpetrators or at a minimum, non-support to the victims and their families, also coincides with the timeline of similar aggressive behavior against the community as a whole. The behavior of state agencies towards the issue of Coptic women and rape, kidnapping and forced conversion has been an element of a wider violence committed against churches, schools or other actors in the Coptic community.
Coptic activists and NGOs –including the Washington DC based Coptic Solidarity International- have accused Egyptian security services under the Mubarak regime, of using Salafists to conduct attacks against Coptic targets to maintain the community under the protection of the government. Coptic and liberal Egyptian NGOs have argued that the new security agencies formed after the collapse of the Mubarak regime continue to allow these practices or help the perpetrators.
5. Consequences of attacks against Coptic women
If the aggression targeting Christian Coptic women continues and widens, without a determined and massive intervention by the Egyptian Government to put an end to this practice, there will be serious consequences on Egyptian Christian women, their communities, and Egyptian women in general, leading to a weakening of civil society and a dramatic setback to freedom, human rights and democracy in Egypt. The chief consequence of unchecked aggressions against Coptic women the terror it has instilled in the hearts of Christian women who count for at least half of the fifteen or so million Christian Copts of Egypt. The hundreds of repetitive attacks against Coptic women send a clear signal to millions of young women in Egypt who feel targeted by the jihadists and Salafists, compelling them to limit their movement, narrow their social circles, and separate them from Muslim communities. Violence against Coptic women leads to a de-facto gender apartheid in Egypt, where Christian women will be increasingly deterred from finding jobs, expressing their opinion, wearing their own preferred outfits and circulating in public spaces.
The effects on Coptic women will also extend to the entire Christian community as half of its members are increasingly intimidated by acts of violence committed on hundreds of young women. When one segment of community is terrorized, it reverberates throughout their families and communities, forcing the collective into mental ghettos or incentivizing emigration. Rape, abduction and forced conversion are among the root causes of a general sentiment among Copts that pushes thousands of them to flee the country of their ancestors. The ultimate goal of the extremist Salafists of establishment of an Islamist state in Egypt is served by the shrinking Coptic community through emigration. Coptic NGOS, including Coptic Solidarity International claims that Gulf funds and local financial circles sympathetic to Salafism and Wahabism in Egypt have been
Outside the community, the attacks against Coptic Christian women and their results will bring other consequence to bear on secular Egyptian women in general, both liberal and conservative. By failing to protect its Coptic citizens, the Egyptian Government will be perceived as incapable of protecting other segments of the population also targeted by the Salafists and the jihadists. Muslim liberal and secular women, who already fear the strict implementation and enforcement of sharia law, will be under increasing pressures by the most extreme elements of the Islamist movement to wear the Hijab and later, the full Niqab. The attacks on defenseless Coptic women are a mere prelude to a wider campaign to impose its ideological agenda, clearly seen in the Salafist movement as early as 2011.
6. The role of the US Government
The United States Government must use every tool at its disposal to stop the persecution of Coptic Christian women and the marginalization of the Coptic community, and on a larger scale, the danger of apartheid against mainstream women in Egypt, regardless of their religions.
Over the past five years, and particularly since the downfall of President Mubarak, there have been calls for the Administration and Congress to use foreign aid to convince the Egyptian government to intervene against these violent practices. So far, conditioning foreign aid on the respect of human rights in Egypt hasn't been successful in changing policies or realities in Egypt. Also, Congressional readiness to condition foreign aid to Egypt on respect for women and minorities rights hasn't convinced the Administration to adopt this strategy for diplomatic reasons.
We recommend for the Helsinki Commission to adopt the following steps as a way to help protect Coptic women and girls in Egypt from abuse, and defend their universal rights.
a. Reaffirm the conditions on global US Foreign Aid to Egypt of a constitutional provision announced by the drafters of the new Egyptian constitution, that the practices of abducting, torturing and forcing conversions on Coptic women or any element of society is a terrorist act unequivocally punishable by law.
b. Make a Congressional declaration that crimes against Coptic women inspired by extremist ideologies targeting communities will be considered crimes against humanity punishable under international law
c. Partner with Coptic and civil society NGOs, extending financial support directly to these entities as part of the global US Aid to Egypt.
d. Ensure that the educational and informational system in Egypt, particularly state supported institutions, isn't used to propagate the ideology or precepts used by the perpetrators of the attacks as a way to legitimize violence and discrimination against Coptic women or encourage acts of violence against them .
7. Current political situation
The current political situation in Egypt provides context that should encourage the US Congress to become proactive in helping the US Administration redefine its policy toward Egypt, particularly as minorities and women rights are under attack. For with the arrival of Muslim Brotherhood presidency in M. Mohammed Morsi at helm of the Egyptian republic and with a possible ruling coalition inside the disbanded parliament or the next elected assembly, the ideological agendas of the Islamist movement at large would constitute a greater menace to the liberal segments of civil society and particularly against the Coptic community and its women. Kidnappings and forced conversions have already occurred under the authoritarian but pro-American Government of Mr Mubarak. Under an Islamist authoritarian Government, these practices are highly likely to continue and increase, endangering not only Coptic women but also the rights of Egyptian secular women at large.
It is critical during the transitional period between the Mubarak regime and the future political era, that the United States play a constructive role that ensures balance between all players in Egypt, and particularly in support of the weakest elements of society, namely from the bottom up, Christian women, the Coptic community, Egyptian secular women, youth and the rest of civil society that is committed to pluralist and liberal democracy.

subset: commoncrawl


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- Sold for: Start Free Trial or Sign In to see what it's worth.
- Item Category: Toys, Dolls, Games & Puzzles
- Source: eBay
- Sold Date: Apr 17, 2011
- Channel: Auction House
Item(s) is in very good condition with flaws as seen in the picture. I do not list every minor scratch, minor paint chip, minor box tears, minor worn spots, and other things that are typical of an item in very good condition for the age of that item. Look at the picture and email me if unsure of something you see. Major Flaws that cannot be seen are listed in the below description.MODEL RR STUFF AMERICAN FLYER S STATION SET FIGURE I do not consider unhinged flaps on boxes that can be glued back together a flaw. I do not consider store stickers or prices a flaw. Subsequent markings are flaws. I do try to mention tears and torn corners which are flaws. I combine shipping and keep costs to the post office plus $1 handling. Wait for my bill on combined shipments – the calculation program is not accurate. Shipping, Tracking and Handling is included in the postage. APO and Overseas shipping is more and needs to be quoted. I do not offer insurance for items under $50 in the shipping and handling. If you desire insurance, then email me and I can tell you the options. I If I ship outside the USA , then the post office receipt that I get from the post office is " undamaged delivery into your hands." Overseas priority mail and large packages are costly. If you don't understand Plasticville scale O/S which was sold for O or S scale, then do not bid. I have 3 negatives from people who do not understand the difference between HO and O/S scales and that Plasticville is a toy made to an approximate scale.
I normally list my auctions on Sunday night and have started re-listings on Sunday afternoon.Any marks seen that are not noted above as flaws are layout dirt which will come off easily unless. I don't clean the pieces - You get old dirt with the old pieces. Sometimes white glued is not removed – this is easily flicked off or soaked off. Think of it as an artifact. Don't get spastic when you see the dirt like one guy did. I will not end an auction early for ANYBODY unless I mess up the listing myself which I do on occasion. Shipping: I normally ship 1-2 days after payment receipt – My normal post offices trips are on Monday, Tuesday and sometimes Wednesday. This covers the majority of the Sunday wins. I then put the remaining shipments in my work place mail. Overseas shipments go out on Monday or the weekend. I use your Paypal address for Paypal payments or what ever is listed on the bill for other payments. If you have another address then that is listed on either of the 2 bills, then you need to mail your payment with a note stating the mailing address. I am not responsible for USPS lost mail or other mailing problems. I have delivery confirmation in my mailing costs which I consider proof of "undamaged delivery into your hands." I will pack to protect the insides will give you the USPS TRACKING number if a delivery is not received or a PO receipt with the zip code if you decline tracking. I will correct any errors that I make in shipping or in listing errors. For shipments to Canada , the post officer receipt which I consider proof of "undamaged delivery into your hands."


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Due to the hotel's excellent local transport links, guests can easily take advantage of the diverse program of events occurring around the city.


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Products >
Viral_Transduction >
Retroviral_Packaging >
The Retro-X Universal Packaging System is our premium retroviral packaging system featuring the GP2-293 packaging cell line. All four commonly used envelopes are supplied on separate vectors including VSV-G, eco, ampho and 10A1 to allow you to choose the tropism that is most appropriate for your target cells. The envelope vector is cotransfected with your retroviral expression vector, and high titers of amphotropic, ecotropic, dualtropic or pantropic virions can be obtained in less than 48 hours.
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RetroPack PT67 is the recommended packaging cell line for creating a stable producer cell line for continuous production of retrovirus. If you wish to make retrovirus via transient transfection we recommend the Retro-X Universal Packaging System. This retroviral packaging system includes an NIH/3T3-based packaging cell line that expresses the 10A1 viral envelope. Virus packaged from PT67 cells can be used to infect a broad range of mammalian cells including human mouse and rat cell types. The virus is able to enter cells via two different surface molecules, the amphotropic retrovirus receptor (Ram-1) and the GALV receptor.
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The first step in diagnosis is admitting that you have symptoms of an eating disorder. You may need support and encouragement from others before seeking help.
- Initial evaluation—During the initial evaluation, your doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history, the amount of food you eat, and how you try to control your weight.
- Physical exam and tests—Your doctor will give you a physical exam and check your height and weight. If you have symptoms of bulimia , your teeth may be checked for erosion, which is a sign of frequent vomiting. You will also have routine blood, urine, and other tests to check your overall health status.
- Psychiatric evaluation—A mental health professional may perform a series of tests and evaluate you for other psychiatric conditions, such as depression and anxiety disorders , which are common in people with eating disorders. Diagnosis of a particular type of eating disorder is based on an evaluation of your symptoms using the criteria of the American Psychiatric Association's Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-IV). Screening tests such as the Eating Attitudes Test (EAT-26) can be used to screen for symptoms of eating disorders.
Diagnosis of Anorexia Nervosa
Anorexia nervosa is characterized by:
- An intense fear of gaining weight
- A refusal to maintain adequate nutrition, often associated with an erroneous image of the self as fat
- Loss of original body weight to 85% or less of what is expected for normal height and weight
- Disturbance of body image and negative self-evaluation
- Absence of at least three consecutive menstrual periods in females who have started menstruating
Diagnosis of Bulimia Nervosa
Bulimia nervosa is characterized by:
- Frequent occurrence of binge eating episodes accompanied by a sense of loss of control
- Recurrent inappropriate behavior such as vomiting, use of laxatives, fasting, or excessive exercise, intended to prevent weight gain
- Both of the above behaviors occur at least twice a week, on average, for three months
- Negative self-evaluation influenced by body shape and weight
Diagnosis of Binge Eating Disorder
Binge eating disorder is characterized by:
- Binge eating episodes accompanied by a sense of loss of control
- No inappropriate behavior to prevent weight gain
- The behavior occurs at least twice a week, on average, for three months
Revision Information
- Reviewer: Michael Woods, MD
- Review Date: 05/2015 -
- Update Date: 05/20/2015 -


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Another highlight of the California trip was catching up with Marcel and Anne. Funny enough, Bill and Marcel just happened to be wearing the exact same thing - right down to the blue Keen's on their feet.
We will start to post with more frequency as we are headed north bright and early tomorrow. We are headed to Annapolis for a few months - so we look forward to catching up with all our DC-VA-MD friends and family.
We have been remiss in posting lately - that silly work nonsense has been to blame.
In June we traveled to California for older brother Donald's wedding. The highlight of the trip was getting to visit with niece Tara.
Well after a very fun winter with Harold and Val, La Buena Vita left last week.
Val's brother Cliff, having grown accustomed to sun, fun and leisure days reading in the cockpit, has gone to Texas and back to work.
We're not sure when exactly we will see Harold and Val again as they intend to do the Caribbean next year.
Before they left we spent a day dining around Marathon. This pic is taken at Porky's, one of our favorite places.
The tree growing up through the restaurant should give you some idea of the ambiance of the place.
With the winter season ending here in Marathon, things at work are slowing down until Memorial Day. As a result, Bessie was able to swing a few days off.
So today we got to act like cruisers again - sleeping in, exploring in the dinghy, swimming and stopping for lunch at Burdine's. Here we are with Harold and Val from La Buena Vita, Val's brother Cliff visiting from Texas, Dick and Larry from Ula G - and, of course, the hounds.
Tomorrow's agenda includes snorkeling, swimming and 25 cent wing night at the Hurricane.
Bessie with Harold and Val after a delicious curry dinner - thanks Val!
Upon our arrival in Marathon, we were delighted to find that our friends Harold and Val from La Buena Vita were here for the season. They are leaving us in a few weeks, but we have been delighted to be able to spend time with them this year. And they often entertain poor Bill when he is abandoned while Bessie is at work.
Today we took advantage of a day off to go to the beach with Harold and Val - and to scrape the growth off of the the bottom of the dinghy.
Looking pretty good with their new haircuts - they went to the beauty parlor for the first time in two years.
On a rare night off, we went to Frank's Grill for dinner. It is the best Italian food we've had outside of the North End of Boston.
Mark Rey did you note the chianti in a basket?
Totally unrelated to boats or sailing or island life - proud Aunt Bessie was delighted to get this picture from sister Martha along with an update on her niece Tara and her worldwide travels as makeup artist for Lady Gaga.
This is a picture of Tara with Bruce Springsteen. She had dinner with him and his 3 sons and, of course, her boss, Lady Gaga. Tara is now in Australia, next Japan then to Sweden, France, Germany, Belgium and then back to the UK.
Isn't she gorgeous!?! We love that girl to pieces.
During Gail and Steve's 1 1/2 day visit, we ate our way through about a 40 mile stretch through Marathon and down the lower keys.
This photo is taken outside of Parrotdise in Little Torch Key. Part of the ambiance outside the restaurant includes a dismasted sailboat and this old Range Rover. I don't actually think they intend for people to get in the vehicle, but you go ahead and try to stop Gail from doing something.
In their short time here in Marathon, we took Gail and Steve to Keys Fisheries twice.
As you might be able to guess, it is one of our favorite places. The seafood is fabulous and it's a great place to catch the sunset over the Bay.
Plus, there is this great photo dealie.
The previous post with Gail and Steve makes reference to Sunset's weekly pool party/cookout called Sunday Funday.
Here, John and Vern take a break from grilling lobster, chicken and burgers to pose for a pic.
John is the big boss, owner of Sunset. Vern, who helps us out on Sundays, actually made the grill in the lower right hand corner. It's a pretty impressive grill, of welded diamond plate.
In the background you can see the cornhole games going on. Sundays have a particularly festive atmosphere with live music on the deck and a colorful cast of characters in the pool.
The past two years, our first guest upon our return to Annapolis/Washington has been Gail. Since we are not headed north this year, she was forced to make her annual first visit down here.
In this pic, Gail and Steve join us at Sunset for Sunday Funday.
Here we are in Bessie's dream car, a 1985 VW Cabriolet convertible, crossing the big bridge.
We acquired this new vehicle a couple weeks back and have named her Julia - pronounced Hulia. You can see a little bit of the Hula girl on the dash board, her name is Julietta - pronounced, of course, Hulietta.
If you come visit us, you'll get to ride in this dream car too.
Yesterday was the last day at Sunset South for some of the North Carolina gang. In this pic, Courtney and Meredith ham it up in front of the Sunset Grille sign.
Yet another picture from Sunset Grille with the 7 Mile bridge in the background.
Bessie blowing the conch horn at sunset.
Bill volunteered for the Marathon Seafood Festival this past weekend. Here he is working in the the lobster and crab tent.
We have made some great new friends among the contingent of North Carolina Sunset Grille folks who came down to open the Marathon restaurant.
Sadly, many of them are abandoning us soon - so we were delighted to have an evening out at Castaways with Meredith and Penny before they head north on Monday.
. . .is this place where Bess is working??
Here is the view from the table in the previous post, looking out at the 7 Mile Bridge.
To back up and fill in more info on this whole job/working thing - Bess had been considering, since the earlier ugliness with the mast, seeking gainful employment because being industrious is good for both the soul and the cruising kitty.
After making a few inquiries around town, to no avail, one day we were cruising around on our bikes down toward the 7 Mile Bridge. We were ready to turn around and head back, but on a whim took a little side road that led up past the Pigeon Key visitor center and down to Knight's Key. There at the bend in the road was this great looking thatched roof building with a sign out front saying "Sunset Grille opening February 12."
We wandered inside to find the place bustling with all the activity one would expect in a place only 3 days from opening. Bess asked for an application and a few days later found herself a working stiff - and really, really enjoying it.
Now she comes home every night with cash that is handed over to Bill for safe keeping. He says this makes him feel like a pimp and that maybe he should buy a white velvet hat with a purple feather.
We were delighted, upon arriving in Marathon, to find that Val and Harold from La Buena Vita, who we met last year in G'town, were here.
They, along with Bob and Meagan from Destinations, joined us on the deck to inaugurate the sunset blowing of the conch horn at Sunset Grille.
Yes, we have been remiss in not posting lately.
We are currently on a mooring in Boot Key Harbor in Marathon - in the heart of the keys.
Unfortunately, we do not have gobs of snorkling, beachcombing or other fun-in-the-sun pics to post as we are too cold!! Finally next week we should see some temps in the 70s and 80s.
In the meantime, Bess has taken a job waiting tables at the Sunset Grille and Raw Bar on Knights Key at mile marker 47.
This picture shows an evening view from the back deck of the Sunset Grille - that's the Seven Mile Bridge on the right. Not bad, eh? (as our Canadian friends would say.)
At least the days are getting longer. Sunset is now around 6:30 and we are all just so thankful for the extra hour and a half of sunlight.
So take your sunshine, 70 degree weather and palm trees and stick 'em where the sun doesn't shine -- aka Idaho.
love you both.
On our way to Marathon, we anchored one night at Long Key, on the ocean side of Channel 5. We had the place to ourselves and enjoyed a gorgeous sunset.
Just before we left Dinner Key, Happy Hours - a boat headed to the Virgin Islands with 2 little girls - hosted a gathering on their 45 Antigua. While the rest of the adults were outside enjoying beverages, Bill was playing fun dominoes with Avery.
We spent a day with Bill and Mara from Puddlejumper over at Everglade City. And we have to admit it, Stanforth was right, it is a great place.
While there, we spent a delightful afternoon kayaking on the Barron River.
After our day trip to Elliott, we are back in Coconut Grove for another week. We'll get a few more provisions and then head down to the Keys, taking it slow and trying to find as many quiet, uninhabited places as possible. That will give us other things to focus on in our posts besides the mast.
Another shot from Elliott Key
Doesn't that two masted girl look pretty!! Yeah, it will be a while before we are over the excitement of having two masts again.
The boys finally got their first beach outing of the season when we spent a day at Elliott Key with Rusty and Bob from Summerwind.
Sadly, there are millions of dead fish on the beaches in the keys from the deep freeze. And it's predicted that there will be a second wave of deaths because of the weakened state of the remaining fish population.
For weeks we have been hearing whining from the north about snow and cold, an not one lick of sympathy for our plight in the frosty south. When we finally made it to Ft. Lauderdale and then Miami, it was with temps in the 20s at night and 30s and 40s during the day - without heat or much in the way of winter clothes.
Here is Bill, wearing about every stitch he owns, trying to stay warm. We haven't quite thawed out yet but it's getting better.
Every time we go through Jupiter, Bess has to take a picture of Alan Jackson's boat Neon Rainbow - here is the latest version. Sometimes Hullbilly is docked right next to it, but not this trip.
Bill is clearly happy about leaving our one masted ketch status behind.
Here are the Mack Sails guys restepping the mast
Here is Alibi II's mast arriving at Cracker Boy Boatworks in Ft. Pierce. Isn't that a beautiful sight!!
Okay, this is probably pretty cheesy and I fully expect to get flack from Veranda (Bill more so than Christy) - but I put this pic up because we are still pathetic and mastless and now have a sick puppy (Gus has Lyme disease) and we really, really, really wish we could be there at Pipe Creek.
Yes, we stole this photo from Veranda's blog and no, this is not what Stuart is like. But aren't we allowed to dream a little in honor of the birth of Christ?
Today we are going to a cruiser potluck here are Sunset Bay Marina in Stuart. It's a new marina with plenty of moorings and very nice facilities.
We're keeping our fingers crossed that we may be two masted again sometime next week.
Merry Christmas everyone!
Our best to Gus, Christy & Bill
We miss you, the sun finally came out today and it's going to be 50. So count your blessings - I'm going to put the ice eater in and set up PVC for shrink wrap over our bimini (we need to get another few years out of it. 2 ft. of snow ripped one zipper even though I cleared it hourly. Enjoy Fla... and we'll keep in touch. Morgan says to Gus, "it's no big woof, take your drugs and you'll be fine"
M & L and the pups
So it appears that our mast will be ready sometime next week and we can be on our way again.
Came back to Vero for a few days to pick up mail, do laundry, etc. Today, back to Ft. Pierce.
Once the mast is ready, we will head south. Bess wants to spend the bulk of the season in either Marathon or Key West. Bill wants to consider Stuart.
The good news is that crossing over to the Bahamas is now a maybe. If we did it would be later in the season March or April.
In the meantime, we're not sure we can read Veranda's blog anymore - makes us sad and envious at the same time.
But we're getting by and having a good time, as pictured above - last night we gathered on Duet with Sea Fox X. A delightful time was had by all.
Boat issues or not, you're not dealing with a foot of snow and still coming down hard - wind at 20 - 40 Mph (oh joy!). As you know we are not all that big on the whole "White Christmas" unless it's white sand beaches. Just thought we would drop y'all holiday wishes - hope Santa bring's you a repaired mast and goodwill for Xmas. The kid's did have a good time romping in the snow today.
Take care, think about the 12 -26" of snow you are not enjoying.
Mike & Linda
But with good reason.
A couple weeks back, on the way to Vero Beach for Thanksgiving, we had an unfortunate incident that resulted in a busted shroud and a dented mast.
Poor little Alibi II now has one mast as we sit in Fort Pierce trying to decide on our options.
On top of that, we are now seeing droves of friends on their way south. We can only wave wistfully.
It appears that we may be spending a winter in Florida, and Bessie may get a job. We just have to figure out exactly where.
The upside (there always is one) is that it appears there are a good number of abandoned boats sitting in yards in Florida, so we might just spend the season going from yard to yard in search of the perfect project.
After a day or so at Cumberland Island, we did a short hop up the St. Mary's River to explore the town of St. Mary's.
While there we found ourselves in Seagle's Saloon, where Miss Cindy Deen the Porno Queen tends bar.
We did not have the camera, so the best we could do is capture the image above from one of Miss Cindy's business cards.
The other side of her card says "Come on into Seagle's Saloon for great cocktails, some tender lovin' trash talk, and good southern sassin' from bartender Cindy Deen."
It is worth mentioning that Lee wandered in before we got there. He asked Miss Cindy first about the price of a burger and then about the famous cruisers' Thanksgiving. She let him know that the Thanksgiving event is not for the homeless. Now he's REALLY considering a haircut.
This photo shows some of the amazing plant life on the island.
This week found us in the southernmost part of Georgia.
We explored Cumberland Island with Lee from Krasna - as you can see from this picture, he is working on improving his photo face.
We just got this pic from a race in Georgetown in February.
Last night Krasna arrived in Factory Creek (Beaufort, SC) where we are currently holed up with Veranda waiting out this weather.
Since the gang has not been together since we left our Annapolis summer anchorage, Christy and Bill hosted a celebration.
Kudos to Bill from Veranda for figuring out the camera timer - now if we could just figure out something appropriately humorous to write about Lee's expression.
Good to hear from you!
Somebody sure looks glad to see the sun come up. And we were able to get into Charleston before the weather got too bad.
We ran all night Sunday from Cape Fear to Charleston. Had nice weather and a fairly calm ride.
Here is Uncle Billy goofing around with nephew Ryan in Wrightsville Beach. We had to post a pic this so his mother could see that he is doing well. See you again in a few months Ryan. XOXO
Yup, the pup pix return. Here are two happy hounds traversing the Dismal Swamp.
Jake is getting some much needed rest for once we get out of the swamp the demon dolphins show up. He now spends the bulk of his time on high alert, looking for the creatures from the sea that torment him.
As you can see, it wasn't the warmest of days. We have at least a week before we get warm.
We were disappointed that the usual lock tender, Robert, was not there when we passed through. He is a delightful, happy guy who practices playing the conch horn during the boring winter months and actually won a contest in Key West.
Here is a shot that shows his palm trees and collection of conch shells given to him by cruisers. This shot does accurately capture the number of shells he has.
Once again here we are at the beginning of the Dismal Swamp. We love the Swamp!!
Who wouldn't need a nap??
We pulled the anchor around 9:30 on Thursday morning and arrived in Norfolk about 2:30 or so on Friday.
Bill, just barely out of a sick bed, got some much needed shut-eye somewhere around 4:00 this morning. Poor Lee, on Krasna, was by himself a few miles behind us the whole trip with no crew to allow for a nap - so we probably won't see him again this evening.
We'll start down the Great Dismal Swamp sometime tomorrow and hit Elizabeth City, NC by Sunday. A few days later, Oriental and then (Ryan watch out!) we're headed to Wilmington - probably be there sometime late next week.
We appreciate all you do for us!
You, Anne, Marcel, Deeanna, Mark, the Bouchards and the rest of our 'land support' network.
Thank you, thank you, thank you!!!
We had quite the Annapolis gathering on Saturday - first lunch at McGarvey's, which bled over into an evening at Acme Bar and Grill.
Here is a picture early in the farewell marathon - George, on the far left, was wise enough to leave while it was still light out.
Thanks gang for making the big trek up to 'Naptown.
We start to leave . . . . . and then change our plan.
Our Sunday departure was delayed by a cranky GPS, which was replaced by Monday, just in time for us both to get hit with the flu.
So after two and a half days of moving only to grab the Nyquil bottle for another slug, we finally pulled to anchor on Thursday morning.
Fortunately, our sick days were miserable and rainy - but by departure day we had nice clear skies and balmy weather for a 30 hour run to Norfolk.
Thanks to all for the series of send offs, we need the winter just to recover from departure parties!
Since we now have less then 48 hours until we pull the hook and head south, Bill is busy with a few last minute projects.
Here he is pictured putting new insulation in the fridge. Not a terribly exciting project, but a funny picture that highlights the thrill and glamour of the cruising life.
Sue got stuck outside holding the coats, but we three had fun!
With Laura, Sue and Robin
We are leaving Mary Morgan in the capable hands of Deeanna and Mark this winter. Of course the turning over had to be marked with festivities of some sort.
In this picture are, from the left, Marcy, Larry (Suzanne is on the phone), Steve S., Bill, Deeanna, Mark and the back of Puddlejumper Bill's head. There was a lot of wine and a lot of laughing.
See you guys again in the Spring!
Michel avec Marcel à la chez Bouchard.
A few weeks back we spent a delightful evening at the Bouchard's. As pictured above, the full membership Greater Annapolis French Canadian Brotherhood showed up.
It's been a while since we updated, because it was a very busy month or so. Visits from siblings, road trips across the country and up and down the east coast, plus two boat shows.
Here are Bessie and her sister Martha down in DC a few weeks back.
Yet another pic in another restaurant. This one in Colrain, Massachusetts with Dennis, Stephanie and the critter, nephew Oliver. Hey kid, how can you eat pizza with no teeth??
Here we are with Uncle Cousin Marty at Fiorella's in Newton. This is one of several stops on our whirlwind Massachusetts tour with brother Dennis and his wife Stephanie.
We're not sure how many years since we have spent time with Marty, but had a great time catching up and promise not to let so many years pass before the next visit.
How in the world did we get this far along with the blog without posting a photo that included Mrs. Bouchard? (pictured here in black, with cleavage)
Also in this shot from Bill's b'day bash are Christy from Veranda and Steve S.
We had a fabulous birthday party for Bill at Marcel and Anne's last night.
Great food, lots of laughs and great friends.
Here are Christy, Bill and Anne. Look at that smilin' guy, 62 sure looks good on him!!
thank you so much & I hope we see you again!
This week Bill is being a dutiful son and brother. He flew out to Oregon on Wednesday with brother-in-law Charlie to move his mother back to Maryland.
So Tuesday night we had an inpromptu gathering of cruisers at McGarvey's in Annapolis. Pictured here are the folks from Mandalay, Krasna and Duet. A fun time was had by all.
Thanks to Gail for the photo.
Bess is not thrilled by Bill's absence but getting by. No sobs have been heard coming from the top of the creek - especially since she was told by co-worker and boat neighbor Lenny "There will be no whining in Spa Creek."
Travel safely Bill and Charlie.
Went down to DC to meet up with the girls and go see Edwin at the 9:30 Club. The show was fabulous - but then again, Edwin is always great.
Thanks to Laura for the picture. Yes, Robin and Bess both look silly, not surprisingly, it's Bess' fault for making a goofy comment. But Larry, Edwin and Bill look great.
It's bad enough that Bess has to have her pic taken with the ever-photogenic Bill on a regular basis, but then to have to stand between him and Edwin looking all buff . . . . not good, not good at all.
For more on Edwin or to see if he's playing near you check out http://www.edwin.com/
Bill and Bess plan to see him next in November in Wilmington, NC. when we stop in Wrightsville Beach during the trek south. The girls are opting to do a silly-ass Broadway weekend or some such nonsense, so I guess we'll have to round up some cruisers and nephew Ryan for that show.
But we failed to charge the camera, so we don't have any pictures of the big event.
While we were in Hagerstown, the hounds went to stay on Veranda with their friends Molly and Tucker. We stole this photo from Veranda's site - you can find a link to it in our favorites.
Apparently at some point during the weekend the clippers came out so that Molly and Tucker could get groomed. At the very sight of clippers, Gus and Jake hightailed it to the bow for safety.
Molly has written a definitive and highly entertaining guide for dogs making the transition from land to sea. Her book is available from Amazon.com and can be found here:
After several weeks tied to a dock over on the South River, we threw the lines and headed over to Spa Creek.
Here is Alibi II in her summer home. In addition to a gorgeous anchorage we have a very convenient dingy dock and easy street parking.
We also have a wonderful little neighborhood with Veranda and Krasna anchored nearby.
Even though Bess gets hives at even the thought of venturing into DC, we made the trip down this week since Larry and Suzanne were in town from Idaho.
Had a wonderful visit and got to see Suzanne for the first time since before we left in the fall. We hope we don't have to wait so long to get together again.
Here we are in front of Dinosaur Land in Stephen's City, Virginia.
We went out that way to pick up a new (for us) car - just a beater, a get-around-town car for the summers.
Yes, that sweet ride we are leaning against is a 1981 VW Rabbit Diesel. She sure is a beaut and no we will not sell it to you even if you beg.
Unfortunately, the guy who was supposed to buy the Mazda flaked on us, so we are temporarily with two cars. Flippin' people from New Jersey!!
okay, okay - we WILL stop the Hounds in Cars series after this one
We put up this pic of the hounds in the back of our friend Anne's car. We don't think this is what she had in mind when she loaned it to us.
Here we are at Jenny's, the restuarant above the Capital Yacht Club -- Jen, Linda, Sue, Robin, Bess and Laura had a blast and laughed a lot.
We had to run down to Washington for a couple days and had a great time seeing old friends - it was a delight to catch up and drink wine with Mark and Larry.
Mark looks the same, never very trustworthy.
But Larry looks like he's lost weight -- what's his secret? I need to know!
Glad you're home, but I miss the pictures of all the sites in the islands.
And we found this one of Sue, Laura and Bess - it's an oldie but a goodie from last summer's sailing on the Bay.
Today we spent the afternoon over at Gail's house, in the back yard, cutting the tips off 21 conch shells to make horns. She was at work, so we had the run of the place.
Did we remember to take a picture of the conch horn project? Of course not.
Instead, we have this lovely photo of us with Gail and Steve at the Old Stein in Edgewater. One of Gail's, and our, favorite haunts.
In the Exumas this year?
Well, on the right is our 2007-2008 Bahamian courtesy flag. Alibi II entered the Bahamas on New Years Day 2008 and left on April 1. You can see that this flag is nearly intact.
On the left is our most recent flag. We cleared in on December 29 and left in early April. About same amout of time, but because of high, constant winds this year, the flag is only about a third of its original size.
That you would do after six months away?? Well, very first thing was laundry - but a very close second was ribs!!! From Adam's Rib, of course. Oh, and a haircut - as you can see, Bill no longer looks like a hippie.
Here we are at Adam's Rib, with Anne - who was our very generous, yet absent laundry host.
We're delighted she's back to hang out with, but somewhat relieved that she and Marcel were not there to see the seemingly endless amount of laundry that we ran through their machines.
After being back a week or so, we almost have our act together. Laundry is done, boat is kinda organized and Bess is working at Fawcett's.
We haven't decided yet if we will continue posting or discontinue until October when we head south again. Bess suggested that maybe we feature boat projects over the summer. This was met with a loud groan from Bill who said "But then I would have to actually DO projects!"
So, we'll see.
And our very first visitor, second year is a row, was Gail.
Here she is sporting her new hat, woven from Sandollar Beach palm fronds. Hmmm, where'd she get that?
Just one last adventure before the dock. At least there wasn't a tanker involved... right?
We'll see ya's this weekend,
And out of rum - yet Bill was still able to keep a smile on his face through most of our Chesapeake all nighter - well, until the fuel clog - that changed everything.
And freezing. This was taken Monday night as we ran all night from Norfolk to Edgewater - it was miserable.
And since we shipped all our winter clothes back, we had to make do with beach towels as blankets.
This is what our first glimpse of the Chesapeake looked like. Really made us wonder why we left the Bahamas.
Here is a shot taken Sunday as we traversed the Dismal Swamp. The fall ride through was equally as gorgeous, we were not able to capture it then as our camera was broken.
Defaces US government property on a lock wall? Well, his name begins with B.
Here is the mileage sign from the South Mills lock.
At the South Mills lock on the Dismal Swamp route. Ah, the happy boater in the shorts has no idea how miserble and cold he will be in one day's time.
While in Elizabeth City, we had the chance to spend time wth Bill's nephew Dan, who is a Coastie.
Unlike a week earlier when we forgot to take pix of our visit with nephew Ryan in Wrightsville Beach, we did remember to get photos of Dan, his wife Angie and kids Sierra, Buddy and Connor.
After a fun evening Friday with Dan and Angie, they brought the kids over Saturday morning so we could meet them. All three thought the boat and the dogs were great fun. 7 year old Sierra is an avid reader and, as it turns out, a natural conch horn blower. Buddy is a very sweet boy who is bound and determined that he can crack open that coconut. And Connor is a tough little toddler who is just plain funny.
We hope to catch up with them again soon before they move to Alaska this summer.
This is a pic of us with Elizabeth City Mayor Steve Atkinson.
We posted this picture, even though Bess looks like a goober and Bill looks like an hippie, because this guy is so enthusiastic about boaters - as is everyone in Elizabeth City it seems.
They host a wine and cheese party for the boaters weeknights at 4:30 and the Mayor gives them the rundown on everything to do in Elizabeth City. He was helping grab lines when we pulled in yesterday. They call Elizabeth City the Harbor of Hospitality, and yes Christy, we did get a flower this time.
Scottie and Kim, this is where you need to come on your summer cruise - and then do the rest of what they call the Carolina Loop - here is a link to the website http://www.discoverec.org/thingstodo-boating.html
Seriously, we love Elizabeth city as well, great people there.
TTYS, Christy & Bill
You looked all over this boat and the only place you could find to sit is right on top of the chart?
Bill's face shows about how much he appreciates Gus' seat selection.
The aforementioned Springer 35, beating us in the around the harbor race in March.
That's Alibi II in the background.
Just hanging out.
Alibi II stopped for a day at Dophin Cove Marina in Charleston to visit with Revel - more specifically Clay and Dianne from Revel, a 35 foot Spriger that beat us in every race this year.
We met Dianne last year when we stayed at the marina and got to know her husband Clay this year in Georgetown.
We probably should have gotten a picture of Clay and Diane or maybe the Charleston waterfront. But we didn't, instead we got a picture of this pretty blue bench at Dolphin Cove - which, by the way, is a great marina on the Ashley River.
. . . . .this cruising thing.
Here is Bill toiling away, driving up the ICW in north Florida - note the remote control for the autopilot.
Who knew that the natural male tendency to hog the remote could translate into navigation skills??
This morning we left out of Cocoa, Florida and will end our day just north of Daytona Beach. Nothing major going on, just sloggin' up the ICW but didn't want to wait too long to post again.
We loved Cocoa, it was more artsy than we expected and Bill got the senior cit discount on the beach trolley. (Conways will recognize the expression 'senior cit').
Today finds us traversing the Indian River and Mosquito Lagoon, which is the trailer park/fishing camp section of Florida. We prefer it to the mansion/mega yacht section down in Miami.
Today we also encountered our nominee for best bridgetender in all of Florida, and the nominee is . . . . . Mr. Titusville Bridge - friendly, efficient and just plain likeable.
'Bout three more weeks until we get back to the Chesapeake.
You better hope we have more interesting stuff to report down the line or the dreaded puppy pix may return!!
Here comes the moon
'Til next season.
Love ya,
As this pic shows, captain and crew need a big rest after working so hard this winter. Ooops, sorry to those reading this from their desks.
Yup, we turned north a week or so ago. Bopped our way up the Exumas, across to Morgan's Bluff in Andros and then last night ran all night to Florida.
After a brief rest here, we'll begin the schlep north.
Here are pups taking a last look at that pretty water.
Dan, hold on to your hat - Wayne, please be sitting down - yes, Bessie, your little gun-toting right wing friend has now taken up weaving baskets from palm fronds.
Let me explain, it's all Gail's fault. You see, she wanted a hat from the straw market. So last year we bought her one. But it didn't cut it - apparently it was too frou-frou or something.
So this year I sent her pix from the straw market. No go, nothing was good enough. According to Gail, she needed something more quote-unquote rustic.
What the hairy?!?!
So I had to learn to weave.
Here are my first few projects. We hope that Gail finds them rustic enough. Why do we induldge her brattiness? We don't really know - I guess she just scares us a little.
By the way, you look super tan and skinny in the next pic down. Sailing life is agreeing with you.
For the boat parade, which was a fabulous boat tour and snorkling.
Here is a pic of us at Ray's (who owns Exuma water sports and hosted the tour) secret beach.
I know that one of the great disapointments of some of our friends in DC was that we did not stay long enough to do the Parade of Lighted Boats in December.
However, as evidenced by this photo, we did not miss out altogether.
The very first event of the 2009 Georgetown Cruising Regatta was the Sail Pass and Review.
We did not have store bought flags like the other boats, so Bill hung our most colorful clothes on the boat.
Lo and behold, guess which boat won??
Our computer has died . . . . . . . so you might not see any new posts for a while. Keep your fingers crossed that we might find someone who can fix it.
One of our favorite gatherings took place last night - as you can see, Gus took advantage of the opportunity to do some boat hopping.
Here is Bess at conch horn making class. Cruisers like to blow the conch horn at sunset. We are making several so we have some to bring back. We'll bring one for CYC so maybe they will bring back their sunset ritual on the deck with a conch horn instead of a cannon.
We've gone total G'town geriatric camp, here is Bill at conch horn making class.
Saturday night at Chat n Chill, Rockin' Ron's Croc hop.
And here is Bill taking care of the drying.
Ah, it's a glamorous life we lead. Here is Bess, the washing machine, doing the laundry.
Take care - we're living vicariously through the blogs.
Mike & Linda
Yup, we have been keeping tabs on Bill and Pam too.
Yesterday we participated in a fun race around Elizabeth Harbor. We did not win, but we did beat the one boat that beat us in the Long Island race, so Bill is calling it a victory.
As you may recall, we met after last year's Valentine's Day race, which Alibi II won, so it was pretty special for us to be back here for the event.
You can't possibly believe that!!
Here is a picture from a Junkanoo event we attended at Regatta Park in Georgetown. It featured a talk on the history of Junkanoo and a brief performance, which was just fabulous.
We went with Willie and Sara of Daisy, who we first encountered while locking through the Dismal Swamp waaaaay back last year. They are 19 and taking a year off from college to go cruising, which I think is just fabulous. Why didn't I think to do that?
More about Junkanoo, it is a street parade with music, which occurs in many towns across The Bahamas every Boxing Day (December 26) and New Year's Day. The largest Junkanoo parade happens in Nassau, the capital.
Junkanoo was celebrated in various parts of the Americas, and variants of the word's orthography may be found in each place - Jonkonnu or John Canoe in Jamaica; John Kuner in North Carolina; and John Canoe in Belize.
Junkanoo groups "rush" from midnight until shortly after dawn, to the music of cowbells, in costumes made from cardboard covered in tiny shreds of colourful crepe paper.
It's been a while since we posted. We left G'town last Thursday. About 40 boats raced to Long Island. We did well and had a great time.
Long Island is a wonderful place. We have gotten around some but there is much more to the island that we need to see.
Here is a shot of some of the other boats in the race - you can see what a gorgeous day it was.
Michelle and Clark from Seabattical I joined us for dinner tonight. We made Bill's Favorite Chili Pie and in return Michelle gave haircuts to Bess and the hounds. She did a pretty good job, huh?
In case you are interested in the chili pie, here is the recipe.
Put some chili in a big iron skillet or other oven safe dish. It can be homemade or store bought - we like to add a little cinnamon like they do in Cincinnati.
Over this, sprinkle chopped onions and shredded cheese.
On top, blob corn bread batter, homemade or mix.
Throw it in the oven at 400 or 450 degrees until the bread is done and you like the looks of it. 20 to 30 minutes usually does it.
Allow to cool for 5 or 10 minutes and serve with sour cream on the side.
It is ridiculously easy yet a real crowd pleaser. If you don't believe us, try it yourself or fly down here and we will make it for you.
I could not help myself. This is a picture of our current neighborhood crank who I call The American Speedo. Not only does he commit the obvious swimwear offense (usually reserved for Europeans), but he has poor flag etiquette, flying the American flag above the Bahamian courtesy flag. Shockingly, this individual in single.
He hollers at anyone who tried to anchor near him. After we dropped the hook not too far away he drove around the boat in his dinghy going full speed with a menacing scowl. Bill and I bravely hid below.
On Saturday night a very pretty sailboat attempted to anchor within his hollering range a while after rum thirty. When the poor beleaugured boater decided to pull the hook and head elsewhere he had to pass through a gauntlet of cockpit cocktail parties. It was very funny to hear the comments aimed at them everything from "Go get back there" to "Hey man, I think your anchor is dragging."
Is clearly much better than that featured in the previous post.
They look pretty good and weigh about 2 pounds less after we washed all the sand off of them.
It is freezing cold in DC.
Miss you!!
We have been trying for months to get a good picture of the hounds doing their launch from the dinghy. At last we got Gus mid-jump. This picture does not accurately capture how flippin' funny it is when they jump, but it is better than a sharp stick in the eye.
It's not all just hanging around, drinking rum and watching sunsets. Today we made pasta from scratch. Inspired by the Naked Chef, we used the recipe and instruction from his book Cook with Jamie ("just brilliant") and employed a pasta maker we acquired from Scott and Freddie back in DC. (Speaking of DC, anyone note the Frager's T-shirt?)
Here Bill is helping by strewing pasta wherever he can to dry. Way at the top of the photo you can barely see where he has run a pvc pipe across to serve as a drying rack. Yep, pvc pipe - proving once again its invaluable versatility.
This is not a great shot, but it shows the crowd and the scene for this evening's festivities - a bonfire beach party on Hamburger Beach.
I brought my potato pizza dealie, which is easy to make but insanely yummy. It was gone in seconds.
Start with the base which I make using our friend Anne L's Ridiculously Easy No Rise Dough Recipe:
1 cup flour
1/3 cup warm water
2 tablespoons olive oil
pinch of salt
Knead for 5 minutes, let rest for 5 minutes.
Roll out, pinch the edges so there is a little lip. Bake for 5 to 8 minutes at 400 degrees.
Fill with some mashed potatoes, enough to just fill the shell, sprinkle first bacon bits and then shredded cheddar over the top. Put back in the oven until the cheese is nice and melty. Serve with sour cream.
The dough recipe can also be used for thin crust pizza or tarts.
We have been remiss in not posting any shots of the wonderful sunsets we enjoy every day.
This shot shows our boat right under the sun from our current favorite beach spot.
Came around a corner in Exuma Market and there, before our very eyes, was the long lost Puddle Jumper, Bill Johnson.
In this picture we are enjoying a stop at La Shante in Little Exuma - yummy cracked conch, great rum punch and delightful company.
Bill says he's secure enough to wear this little number that I sewed. He's a big fan of Fatty Goodlander, whose father liked to wear a pareo, so we're trying variations on that theme.
Keep in mind, there is rum in that glass, which may have something to do with his attitude. And we'll see if this post is allowed to remain up for any length of time.
I can't help it.
Jake and Gus found some new friends at Sand Dollar Beach. Archie and Marie (pronounced the Scottish way - Mah-rie).
Here is Jake (the birthday boy, he is 4 today) leading a good round of Mad Dog.
If only Wags, Tattie, Morgan and Murphy could be here!
Glad you guys made it and the pups have miles and miles of beaches to explore
Big hugs...
Here is Bill with Clark and Michelle from Seabattical 1.
We have confirmed that, despite appearances, Clark is in no way related to Scott Berg.
Forementioned new Canadian friends from s/v Seabattical1, Clark and Michelle, organized a walking tour of Black Point while we were there. Here we are with Geraldine and Wayne from s/v Intuition 1, more Canadians. Marcel you would fit right in down here!
As I mentioned, it got cold last week. How cold? Look at these guys, dressed for snow.
Here we are at Scorpions in Black Point - photo credits go to our new Canadian friends from Seabattical 1.
As you can tell from the layers, it got a little cold last week - it was all the way down into the 60s and pretty darn windy.
Bill loves Black Point because they have the nicest laundromat in all of the Bahamas.
While at Staniel Cay we did have a mission. As part of the Seven Seas Cruising Association's Operation Bahamas Project we brought five boxes of school books from the US to the Staniel Cay All Ages School.
Here are 11 of the 14 children who attend this K-8 school. It is usually 11 boys and 3 girls but today two of the girls and one boy were out with the flu.
They were a delightful and well behaved group of children. The teaching staff is comprised of a couple who emigrated from Guyana two years ago.
We look forward to bringing them more supplies and visiting them again next year.
Love to you both, Deeanna and Mark
After perfecting cracked conch in Allen's Cay, clearly we were done there. Next stop, Staniel Cay.
Staniel holds a special place in my (Bess') heart. As some folks know, about 3 or 4 years ago I jumped ship at Staniel when (long story) cruising with some crazy folks (no, I won't name names) and met those crazy Okies, Linda and Ken VanTreese. The very same Okies I was visiting last year when I found Bill.
You have to do something with it - here is Bess' first attempt to make cracked conch. We were mighty happy with the result - and any visitors will be too - Gail Larcher, have you bought your ticket yet??
Five days of laziness at Morgan's Bluff finally ended and we headed east - two days crossing to the Northern Exumas and at last we were there.
We found a great spot at Allen's Cay, took the obligatory iguana picture and then proceeded to laze around for another 4 days.
Somewhere in there, in a shocking burst of energy, Bill found 5 mature conchs and taught himself how to clean them. Here is a picture of the genius at work.
Due to higher winds and rougher seas than expected, what could have been a 9 or 10 hour crossing ended up about 15 hours. So rather than continuing across the Bahama Bank and going to Morgan's Bluff in a straight shot, we anchored our first night at Gun Cay.
We snuck the pups to the beach for a walk the next morning before heading out - so after just promising not to put up more pictures of them, here is just one more. As you can see, they were so happy to be on the beach they felt like dancing.
Now that we have a good internet connection and plenty of time, we need to recap the last few weeks - the crossing, Andros and the Exumas so far.
As noted earlier, it seemed that Christmas Day would give us a decent weather window - not fabulous, but decent. Turns out the forecast was not exactly accurate. Instead of easterly winds of 10 to 15, we never saw winds of less than 20 right on the nose. And predictions of seas 1 to 2 feet near shore and 2 to 4 offshore, nope, not right about that either. Bill says they were 5 or 6 feet, Bess swears she saw 8.
It doesn't look so rough in this picture, but it was - and the water really is that blue.
We have just arrived at Big Majors, around the corner from Staniel Cay and will have internet for the first time in two weeks, except for brief time last weekend.
So we will do some updating over the next few days - we need to backtrack a little and cover the crossing and activities since - but we will try to cut down on the puppy pix a bit.
In Allen's Cay, we did take the obligatory iganua picture.
More later . . . . . .
This is the sound of jealous hitting the keyboard.
We have just dropped the hook after a day's sail from Morgan's Bluff, where a one day stop to clear in turned into 5 days of laziness, interupted by a few projects..
Clearing in through Morgan's was easy and the people there, delightful. Their major industry is agriculture - grapefruit, tomatoes, cabbage and a host of other produce is grown there.
Here is a picture of our new friend Willie, who owns Willie's Water Lounge.
For most of our five days in Morgan's Bluff we were the only boat in the anchorage. New Year's Eve found us completely alone in the harbor. Willie's was closed and there was not another living soul around for miles.
On our last day there, we ventured over to the next town, Lowe Sound, and enjoyed our first conch salad of the year at Rex and Rosie's, a beach place owned by a delightful couple. Rosie explained that she first fell for Rex when she saw him coming out of the water carrying two big conchs.
Tomorrow we will head to Allen's Cay, at the far north end of the Exumas, known for the rare igaunas that call it home. They scamper out to greet the dingys coming to shore and expect handouts, with a stated preference for grapes. We don't think Gus and Jake will be making that trip to the beach.
Gus and Jake have happily made the transition to Bahamas living. They really enjoy the twice daily trips to the beach and end up running so much they sleep most of their days away.
Wishing everyone a happy holiday season.
From Bess, Bill, Gus and Jake
Tomorrow at dawn we will leave Biscayne Bay and head east into the the Straits of Florida, across the Gulf Stream and through the Great Bahama Bank to Morgan's Bluff, Andros, about 150 miles from here. We expect to arrive sometime Friday afternoon.
Morgan's Bluff was named after Captain Henry Morgan, the 17th-century Caribbean privateer from Wales. Local lore has it that his treasure, which has ever been found, is hidden there somwhere in the wide system of subterranean limestone caves, which are complete with stalactites and stalagmites.
Captain Morgan, the rum named after him, portrays Morgan as a pirate, however Henry Morgan was offended by that characterization as he considered himself to be a privateer (one whose nation paid and licensed them to attack and plunder an enemy's shipping).
It does not look like the weather will cooperate for us to go anywhere today. National Weather Service forecast is "East winds around 20 knots with frequent higher gusts. Bay waters choppy in exposed areas." Similar forecast for tomorrow.
Thursday however, is looking good for a crossing over to Gun Cay, south of Bimini.
So, given the weather, looks like we will skip the Keys for now and head across the Gulf Stream later this week. Woo hoo, a Bahamas crossing for Christmas!
Congratulations and good luck with your new venture! I am so jealous. The weather here is sooooo cold. I can't wait to meet Bill!
Happy 2009! You are off to a good start.
Ha!, to all those who said Bessie could not live without the Crackberry. Here she is mailing the BB and keys to the office back to DC.
This was one of a few last minute errands before we leave in the morning. We had expected to be on our way by now, but finishing up the transmission install and subsequent alignment, plus restowing everything, has taken longer than expected.
Of course any possiblilty of departing will depend on the weather. We have not yet gotten enough information to decide whether we will move south down to the Keys or, if we have a good weather window, head over to Bimini.
Enjoy the Islands.
Happy New Year!
Take a look at these faces.
Gus, on the right, at least feels something resembling regret for trashcapades while we were gone.
But Jake, who is the brains of the operation and most likely instigated the raid, appears largely unconcerned - almost challenging us to do something about it.
Merry Christmas
Sure Bill, yeah, you are going to give those puppies a sound thrashing after that trash incident. Can you see the terror on their faces??
To my absolute delight, tonight I got a call from the "girls," my gang back in DC (this pic shows some, not all, of the gang - plus two stray guys and handsome Bill in the back right.) They were including me by phone in the annual Christmas gathering at Rosa Mexicana.
Anyone who knows me can tell you that friends are a huge part of my life - leaving DC was easy, leaving my friends in DC was very hard. I'm not sure it has really sunk in yet that calling Robin for a quick bite at Jenny's or schlepping out to the latest, greatest hot spot that Sue has found or going to a concert with Laura - all those things I took for granted over the years - those times are past.
Now, fishing Linda out of the Potomac in December, I think we all agree that once was enough on that.
Anyway, the "girls" are a very special part of my life - an amazing group of individuals, of every political leaning and from every region of the country, who are all smart, funny and incredibly accomplished.
It still amazes me that we were able to regularly get this group together for a such wide array of activities - not just eating and drinking but sailing, skiing, the rodeo, spa outings (not enough), baseball games, Edwin shows (of course), Sue's personal favorite, snowmobiling - and THE event of the year, the Parade of Lighted Boats.
So raise a glass (or three) for me. I really miss you guys. But save us some time on your summer 09 calendars, we'll be back for sailing in the Bay.
As you can see, the girls love Bill too
mmmm...25 more minutes to homemade pizza...Thanks Linda VanT for the recipe!
Here it is
Pizza Dough Recipe - Makes 1 crust
2 c. all purpose flour
2/3 c. lukewarm water
1 pkg. dry instant yeast (2 1/4 tsp.)
1 1/2 tblsp. sugar
1/2 tsp. salt
3 tblsp. olive oil
In large bowl combine water, yeast and sugar. Mix with whisk. Let stand until yeast starts to grow. Add salt, olive oil and 1 c. flour and mix well. Add remaining flour and mix well. Knead dough on lightly floured surface, adding additional flour if needed until dough is no longer sticky. Place dough in large lightly greased bowl and cover with towel. Put in warm place to double in size (about 30 minutes). When doubled, punch down and roll out to fit pizza pan.
Bake 450 - 500 degrees for 20 - 25 minutes
Today we heard from our friend Katie Hammon, who kindly sent along this pic from our trip to Idaho last summer - along with huge news that a baby Hammon is on it's way.
Woo hoo Katie and Wayne!!
Bill finally decided to shave. He's leaving the beard behind with the cold weather.
I just checked on our friends Bill and Christy's blog, and it put us to shame. We are so pathetically boring by comparison. And not funny at all. Do they really have lives that much more interesting than us? Dammit, I hate being a piker.
So I guess I will try to ramp up the text - I just figure no one (except sister Martha) would want to read that much and that they are all really just waiting until we get to the Bahamas to see pix of blue water and huge lobsters that we caught with our bare hands. Aren't they? or am I really that bad at assuming everyone thinks the same as I do.
Okay, well here is (surprise, surprise) another picture of Bill Storm and the boys. Bill is completely absorbed in Nigel Calder's diesel book as he gets ready to do his big transmission install.
Behind him you can see my goal shorts. They are size 8s from about 4 or 5 years ago. They are placed there, right above the lockers where all the food is stored - something of a reminder. As it turns out, the 'it just falls off you when you're cruising' diet really only works if you go offshore a lot without scopolomine patches - thereby spending entire nights face down on the floor clutching a trash bag for when you lose the ginger shaps that were supposed to help settle your stomach. Sure, if I did that every night from Annapolis to Miami my goal shorts would already be too big. But it really is not my idea of a fun time and who knew that Bessie was that much of a weenie??
Anyway, after that exhausting burst of activity, crafting four whole paragraphs, Bill and I will go back to doing what we do every afternoon, sitting around, doing nothing and drinking rum. In the morning, we sit around, do nothing and drink coffee. I'm not sure that schedule will give us much material for future posts, so you might just welcome the blue water and big lobster pictures after all.
For Bill anyway, here he is with his new transmission - is that a happy guy or what?
12/15/2008, Dinner Key - Dinghy shot
I tell ya' - any second now, I'm jumping
12/15/2008, Dinner Key - Island B
And I'm in
Just wish we could get a better pic
We finally got warm a week ago. Pulled into Miami last Thursday and dropped the hook at Baker's Haulover, about 14 miles north of where we are now.
Friday morning we headed out to the the last few miles to Dinner Key (we were headed here to see Ken and Linda VanTreese - the very same Okies who picked up a stray Bessie in Staniel Cay two or so years ago) - anyway as we approached the first bridge, Bill felt some slipping in the transmission and we couldn't seem to get any oomph out of the engine.
He had been thinking that the transmission might be nearing the end of its expected life, so we were glad that it happened here in Miami rather than in the Bahamas. Bill is waaay cool - he figured out how to pull the tranmission by himself - and it was neither easy to access or to figure out.
In the end, it is not nearly as bad as Bill (aka Suzie Sunshine for his ability to expect the worst in every situation) predicted. Turns out it will cost less to put a new one in than to rebuild the old. But the supplier is shut down for inventory this week, so early next week is the soonest we'll be able to get it. Thanks to the folks at Transmission Marine Inc, we should be all set sometime next week.
So for now, we're just hanging out relaxing.
Here is a pic from the boat - that's Biscayne Bay bridge in the background.
Most of the transients either get a slip at one of the marinas or a mooring nearby. We, however, are out with the real people (real what? we're not sure yet) in the anchorage.
Out here you may see a boat that you think is abandoned, but it may well be someone's home. Someone who most likely thinks that 8 o'clock in the morning is a fine time for a Budweiser.
12/12/2008, Dinner Key - Island B
Since we are waiting on a new transmission, everything from the cockpit storage lockers is out - so our Clampett look has been taken to a new level.
However, we think it gives us some status out here in the 'hood.
Greetings from the crew of Alibi II!!!
Pups in the sun
We had the chance to visit with Bill's nephew Ryan, who was nice enough to drive us around so we could get a new camera - here's our first photo with the Canon PowerShot SD1100. We had just dragged poor Ryan out to the boat in terrible chop so everyone except the hounds is pretty much soaking wet.
Gus and Jake huddled below while offshore
Here is a shot, right before the camera died, of all the bow junk - this is before it was all loaded to give the boat that Appalachia-meets-the-cruising-life look. We have yet to see another boat that even comes close to matching our Clampett look.
Updates coming soon!! With lots of pictures and stories - all good, we hope.
We'll leave the Chesapeake Bay later this year hoping to cross over to the Bahamas early in the new year and get to Exuma by February at the latest.
Check back and drop us a line.
Bess and Bill


text:
We found these two precious gnomes marching in the stone pile saying, "Hack, hack! The rocks we crack!" Hard at work caring for the rocks and making new ones. The larger (5" tall) gnome is dressed in wool blend felt with a dark grey cape and cap, the smaller (4" tall) gnome is dressed in a lighter grey cape and cap. They make a wonderful pair for a nature table, child's room, rock collection, story, or window sill. Sturdy enough for every day play. Fits perfectly in the palm of your child's hand. Great for a birthday. Great paired with our Gnome's Crystal Set or the Wood Trees.
Handmade of wool blend felt on a wooden base, exclusively for A Toy Garden. USA.


text:
*Voice Studio Recital
May. 8, 2014,
5:30pm to 6:30pm
Campus Location
Office/Remote Location
Dr. Arturo Rando-Grillot Hall
Admission Information
This event is free and open to the public.
Contact Information
Office: Department of Music
Phone: 702-895-3332
E-mail: firstname.lastname@example.com
More info on this event
Event Sponsor
Department of Music
Ongoing Events
Related Links
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Looking to get involved?
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