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Issue #79 (September 1, 1999) Links from this column are "jump links" and will open up new windows in your browser.
Issue #79 (September 1, 1999) Links from this column are "jump links" and will open up new windows in your browser.
Links from this column are "jump links" and will open up new windows in your browser.
Feel the Heat:
I'm sure we've all heard the statistics that violent crime flares as temperature rises. Heat and anger apparently go hand in hand, and a look at two of our message boards this summer certainly shows that.
In the last issue of this column, I shared Anne's post to our Reviews Message Board, entitled Fuming Mad. She wrote:
"I'm extremely disappointed and disgusted with some of the portrayal of women in novels. It's about time we stop whimpering and 'blushing' behind our fans or whatever we are hiding from and take a stand!! And what is it with women who can't say 'no'. I dislike novels that depict women going 'goo-ga-ga' over the hero, and just simply going weak at their knees. Whatever happened to a good smart remark if the hero happens to be rude and obnoxious. Sure it's no way to win them over, but sometimes men can a little bit thick, a good kick in the teeth should bring them around. And what is it with women, who try their hardest to win back their unfaithful husband/hero who claims that they are in love with the heroine but sleeping with their ex-mistress. Whatever happened to important things such as self-respect, sensibility and a little practically in these romance novels. Ok, so it doesn't sound too exciting, but at least they don't faint at the sight of a shirtless male. Heaven forbids!!! I mean after reading Michelle Martin's The Mad Miss Mathley, I can't help but compare the heroine to some of the simpering females I've read and I just cringe, and cringe."
Hmmm. It's hard to know where to start after a rant like that, but I'll give it a shot. Adultery in romance is a topic we've discussed before, and it isn't a theme that generally works for me. I've occasionally read a book where the hero tries to continue being the Duke of Slut after he meets the heroine. These books generally fall into one of two categories - either he's fighting his attraction and ends up unable or unwilling to perform with his mistress or a prostitute, or he's been forced into marriage and sees no reason why he shouldn't continue his lascivious ways.
There is, however, a variation on heroines without self-respect that has nothing to do with mistresses or prostitutes, and that is heroines who allow themselves to be verbally abused by their "heroes." An occasionally effective premise is the heroine who is beloved by everyone with the exception of the hero, who sees her as duplicitous, as undeserving of his trust, and/or as the root of all his problems. He refuses to see the good in her and treats her accordingly. Two books immediately come to mind - Catherine Archer's Velvet Bond, and Elizabeth Elliott's The Warlord. I love both of these books, possibly because the heroes realize the error of their ways before the last page, although in the Archer book, it's a close call. It's also possible that I loved those books because of the quiet dignity of their heroines.
Most readers who can put up with heroes like this appreciate that the heroines are often on the receiving end of a major groveling scene at the end of the book. A good grovel can go a long way in mitigating bad behavior. Judith McNaught is a master at "giving good grovel;" she even turned the tables in A Kingdom of Dreams and has the heroine grovel.
I'm far more inclined to enjoy a heroine who is capable of giving as good as she gets. Not always, though - there are times when I enjoy reading about The Waif (see Tami Cowden's female archetypes) who puts up with more abuse than seems imaginable.
Ronda Thompson, author of Desert Isle Keeper Isn't it Romantic?, agrees with Anne - she doesn't care for wimpy heroines. Neither does Anna, who can understand chemistry between men and women up to a point, but fails to see how a kiss can cause a seeming lack of memory. You know, the hero and heroine who are fighting, then seized by passion, embrace one another for a torrid kiss, and then the heroine can't remember she was mad. . . ?
This is an area of great consternation for Lynn, who writes, "You've hit upon one of my biggest pet peeves in romance novels. The fact that really angry people grab each other and dissolve into kisses. I'll tell you one thing, if a really angry man grabbed me I'd be petrified, and if he kissed me I'm sure I'd be freaking out too much to melt into his arms. Has anyone ever dissolved into sex in the middle of a fight? I know romances are fantasy, but I expect at least the sex to be based somewhat in the realm of reality."
Of course, the anger/sex scenario is a classic - I can remember practically salivating for the episode of Moonlighting when David Addison and Maddie Hayes finally consummated their angry passion in the midst of a fight where her slapping him led to the best "I hate you. . . let's go to bed" scene in recent memory. Of course, the show fizzled shortly thereafter, but there is a legitimate place for anger and passion in romance novels. It isn't called "make-up sex" for nothing. Unfortunately, it has been overdone to the nth degree.
Catherine writes, "Wimpy romance heroines not only ruin books, they make the whole genre look bad. One of my pet peeves is heroine who repeatedly say they don't want to sleep with the hero, while they are kissing him, and then, they are so overwhelmed by his manliness, or whatever, that they do. Hmph. Talk about sending out the wrong message. I lose a lot of respect for a heroine when she does that."
AAR Reviewer Robin Uncapher recommends Robber Bride by Deborah Simmons for those looking for a different type of heroine. She writes that author Simmons heroines are very well rounded; "they are intelligent and never act like wimps." Must be why two of Simmons' books are on my Desert Isle Keeper list! Even when she writes a wounded heroine such as Marion the Wren in Taming the Wolf, there is such a strong sense of an underlying strength of character that the book succeeds.
Christine recommends Loretta Chase's classic Lord of Scoundrels for a look at another strong heroine. Jessica Trent, she writes, "is a very strong woman. The chemistry between her and the hero is sensational. The hero is definitely alpha, but the heroine gives him a run for his money. Yes, she is 'weak at the knees', but never inferior to him. On the contrary, I thought that the poor guy never recovered from the first encounter he had with her! She does not whimper or submit to him. Whatever he dishes out, she comes back with a vengeance."
Because I've always enjoyed strong heroines, I've done my best to share information about this type of heroine with readers. Feel free to check out Elizabeth Grayson's Write Byte on Strong Heroines and to see the books on our Special Heroines list. Later you can post your favorites to the LN&V Message Board and when it's time to update that list, they may be added.
You Want to. . . Boycott?
Anne's not the only one who's fuming mad these days. Sandy seems even more upset, and those of you who have visited two of our three message boards in the past week or so may know why. It has to do not with hardcovers or reissues, both of which are of concern for some, but with re-writes that are published - often in hardcover.
Let's break this down into segments. Romance novels, like other genre fiction, are released mainly in paperback form. Mainstream fiction, on the other hand, is originally released in hardcover, and then, six months to a year later, is re-released in paperback form. With the exception of Publisher's Weekly, most mainstream publications don't review paperbacks at all. Even though sales of romance novels account for half of the dollars spent on paperbacks, if you pick up a magazine or your local newspaper, you most often will not be reading romance reviews. That is changing slowly - The Dallas Morning News now runs short reviews of romances, for instance - but, for the most part, only hardcover books are reviewed in print publications.
There is a sort of status conferred on a book that is issued in hardcover. It will likely be reviewed in some mainstream publication, and an expanded audience will likely buy it. It will also be on sale twice - first as a hardcover, and then as a paperback. Most romance authors who now sell in hardcover have written and sold many, many books before they achieve hardcover status. Whether or not they have written too many books to be fresh by the time they reach hardcover status is not something I'm going to get into now, but feel free to do so when it's time to post to the message board.
There's no doubt that publishers are in business to make money - some of the methods they devise astound me. I can recall seeing a hardcover book by Nora Roberts on sale earlier this year. It was a hardcover reissue of a paperback book written several years before. It was not a re-write; it was simply a book once sold for $5.00 now on sale for closer to $20.00. As all romance readers need to know, checking the copyright page of any book is crucial before buying it.
Sometimes this can be difficult because of cover and name differences. Kat Martin recently did a mass email enticing readers to read her latest book, which, unfortunately, was a reissue of a book written under her pseudonym Kasey Mars. While information at her web site indicated it was a reissue, many readers, regardless of whether or not they received Kat's email, bought the book, only to discover they already owned it.
For those who think they can judge a book by its cover - think again. When I got heavily into romance, I learned that older books were more likely to have clinch covers, that newer books featured either the hero alone, a step-back cover, or a jeweled or flowered cover. What I didn't know is that older books often had their covers re-done for subsequent printings. After buying a book that I assumed was a new release, I checked the copyright page to discover it was, in fact, quite an old release.
I've shared my worst fears about the state of romance publishing before - that I foresee the day when all we'll see at a bookstore are shelves containing backlists for lead authors on one side while on the other all that exists are series romances. Doesn't it seem as though every month, there are more and more reissues available, and fewer good mid-list titles out there? Some publishers are delving into niche markets - Jove has many "mini" lines revolving around friends, quilting, ghosts, time travel, etc., while Kensington, after selling it's AA line, is now publishing a line marketed at Hispanic women.
As a reader, I welcome any new idea that brings us good new authors and new good books. However, as the publisher of this site, and the one who posts reviews, it seems as though many of the books in these smaller lines aren't very good. I know the print runs are small - since they aren't targeted at the entire romance market, that makes sense. Unfortunately, the quality of these books has been iffy.
Most new authors signed by publishers are often put in a sink or swim situation - their publishers expect the books to sell well even though they aren't willing to spend the money growing the author. Most mid-list authors have to promote themselves to an extent that boggles the mind. Publisher's money seems to be lavished on already-established authors, or on "stunt" publishing. From what I hear, most of these stunts do not pay off, and so there is less money to buy books from new authors, less money to spend doing decent editing on books, and little money spent on helping to sell these books.
Romance readers buy in bulk - we don't simply buy one or two hardcover books in a month and let it go at that. Many of us buy ten or more books in a month, and if one is a hardcover, we have a hard decision to make because one hardcover equals three or four paperbacks. Some readers opt to wait for that hardcover to come out in paperback, or to check it out at the library. Others can't wait and buy it regardless of the price - they've got to have it!
Most readers "collect" certain authors - they buy every Nora Roberts, Julie Garwood, or Mary Jo Putney title that's released. If they're not careful, they might buy two paperbacks of the same book. While I can understand MIRA reissuing older series romances that are next to impossible to find, it seems so greedy of Bantam to to reissue Carnal Innocence in hardcover form.
My last trip to Target included, as usual, a stop in the book department, where I mostly saw reprints of Jude Deveraux, Judith McNaught, Catherine Coulter, Nora Roberts, and Danielle Steel, along with all the series lines. I'm sure they had some other authors mixed in, but my overall impression was that most of the books were reissues. When I visited a full bookstore recently, I saw a larger variety, but more reissues than when I last reported on this. For those like me looking for Jayne Ann Krentz, Elizabeth Lowell, Linda Howard, and Nora Roberts titles being reissued by MIRA of their older series romances, this is a good thing. But it's a double-edged sword, because space is limited. Once the initial order for, say, an Adele Ashworth, is gone, will it be re-ordered, or will that shelf space be filled by another JAK reissue?
Then there is the re-write. Catherine Coulter has been re-writing her Regency Romances as full-length historicals for years now, and I've yet to come across anyone who has found this to be a worthwhile reading experience. Mary Jo Putney has begun doing the same - she re-wrote her classic Regency Romance, The Rake & the Reformer, as The Rake last year - both received Desert Isle Keeper Status from us. Later this year, The Bargain will be released - it is a re-write of The Would-Be Widow. In each of these instances, the re-write was in paperback form.
There is some sense in re-writing Regency Romances as full-length historicals, because the forms are different, for one. Also, Regency Romances receive small print runs and it's very difficult to find copies of some of the older classics, which include Putney's. But what about re-writing a classic that continues to be in print and is not at all difficult to find? Which brings us to Judith McNaught's Whitney, My Love, which the author has re-written and is now on sale.
Judith McNaught popped up on our Reviews Message Board a few weeks ago, and addressed both the hardcover issue and the re-write issue herself. She wrote, in part, that authors are not involved in the hardcover decision at all, and that publishers lose money or barely break even on many novels, especially those as written by new authors. She added:
"The extra income from successful hardcover novels helps enable publishers to offset the expense of continuing to develop new authors.
"Until a few decades ago, good novels were never available as original paperbacks. They were published first in hardcover, then in paperback. Prior to that, good novels were all released in hardcover, period. At that time, 'the paperback novel' was synonymous with 'inferior junk.' And if you bought one, it almost always was. It's a fairly recent development in publishing to release good, solid novels as original paperbacks.
"Women account for the vast majority of the American reading public, so as soon as we start buying novels by any author (from Sidney Sheldon to Arthur Haley to Stephen King to Jude Deveraux and Johanna Lindsey) it's a foregone conclusion that author will hit the New York Times paperback best seller lists. And when that happens, you can almost bet your IRA that the author's next book will be released first as a more profitable hardcover, then a paperback.
"Given all that, it's amazing (and perhaps a little insulting to romance readers) that publishers continued to believe until ten years ago that romance novels weren't deserving of hardcover publishing, even thought they were consistently making the New York Times bestseller list as original paperbacks.
In the next few years, I think electronic publishing is going to have a dramatic effect on the way we buy and read novels. I also think the cost of an 'electronic novel' will soon drop to where it is substantially less than today's paperback. I also have a hunch that it will cut deeply into what authors earn for their novels. You may be thinking they already make more than they should, but you would be appalled if you knew the paltry amounts many romance authors receive for a novel that constitutes a year's work, or more. For you, reading is a hobby and a joy. For many authors, writing is a joy that pays like a hobby, and for a few authors, writing is an effortless delight that pays very well. For others, writing is a bewildering, difficult effort that occasionally fills us joy, but more often with anxiety, and which pays very well."
And, about Whitney, My Love, Judith wrote with great enthusiasm that she is "very excited and a little emotional about the new hardcover version myself. I added nearly 40 pages to the end of the book and made some changes to enhance two other pivotal scenes."
Judith was so concerned about every aspect of the endeavor that she ended up personally hiring an architect to do a detailed drawing of the Westmoreland estate. Part of the architect's assignment was to read part of the book so as to bring authenticity to the final work.
She wrote:
"It's hard to describe the attachment I feel for Whitney, My Love. It was my first manuscript, started in 1978 and re-written over and over again during the next four years. All my dreams and hopes went into that novel. And every publisher that read it, rejected it.
"With each new rejection, I lost more faith in my ability, until I finally gave up and tried my hand at writing a contemporary novel (Tender Triumph). Harlequin snatched that one up, which at least made me feel validated, and then they bought Double Standards.
"During all that time, during all those rejections and all the dejection and despair, there was only one person who believed in me unfailingly and who continued to believe that Whitney was a wonderful novel - My husband. Three months before my new agent finally sold Whitney to Pocket, my husband died in an accident. Michael didn't live to see my name on a bookcover, not even on Tender Triumph. He never saw Whitney as a book, and he never got to see the amazing way it leapt onto the best-seller lists as soon as it was released. A year later, he wasn't in the audience when I walked up to a podium and accepted an award for it as the best historical of the year.
"I think he knows about all that, though. In fact, I think he made it all happen for me.
"The new hardcover version has shipped out and some people have already gotten their copies. I don't how many copies will be available or for how long. That doesn't really matter to me. What does matter to me is all explained within the wording of the dedication. It reads exactly as it read in 1983, when I turned the finished manuscript into my editor: 'In memory of Michael - my friend, my husband, my love.'
"And now you will understand why that particular book is so very close to my heart."
So, if Whitney, My Love is a book Judith wanted to re-write, why should that be a problem for readers? Well, for many, it isn't. And, for many who had problems with parts of Whitney, the re-write might, in fact, be a good thing. But, for some, the question is: Why should I pay $20.00 for forty new pages and two re-written scenes when I've already paid my six bucks for nearly the same book?
Taking us down the slippery slope a ways is Sandy, who posted on two of our message boards her plea that we boycott this re-write. She wrote, in part, that she has no problem with authors being published in hardcover and understands what a coup it is for romance authors to achieve this sort of status.
She also wrote that she has no problem with reissuing original works in hardcover because she knows that many readers like to collect favorites in hardcover. As for reissues in general, she believes they are wonderful for books out of print because they give "a new generation of readers a chance to buy these books at reasonable rates" rather than through book auctions.
Sandy added that had Whitney, My Love simply been a reissue in hardcover form, she would not have been upset. She is upset, however - mightily so - and wants to be clear that she has no problems with Judith McNaught personally because her books have given Sandy "many hours of reading enjoyment," but that she's "sick that the publishers have chosen her to perform this little experiment on.
Sandy's problem is that she doesn't like "the idea, the concept, of editing, revamping, revising, or adding to 'original' classics' to promote and grab more sales." She further adds:
"I think this new type of reissue is a dangerous and unethical precedent. This new trend simply scares me. If this works and Whitney goes on the bestseller list, what next? Think of your top ten keepers, books that you cherish and have read over and over again until the characters are like family. Wouldn't you just love it if the writer did a sequel, but instead of giving you a sequel, the writer and publishers say 'Oops, I really wasn't happy with that ending' and the writer adds 40 pages to it, and the publisher tacks it on to the end of the 'original' and then reissues it?
"What's your first reaction? I know what mine is - simply 'Oh, I must have this,' 'these are some of my favorite characters and isn't it wonderful that she's writing some more about them,' or 'this makes it a collectors edition and its okay since she's giving us something more'." Then we all just open our pockets and buy the same book twice, with a little extra added. And the publishers and writers think, 'well heck, why write a 300 page sequel when we can pay for just 40 more pages and just tack it onto the original, and still make the same amount of money?' Now do you see? Think of it, all our keepers, constantly changing, being re-edited, packaged as new and revised."
"Please don't change original work. It's not fair to those of us who supported and helped to recognize this work as a classic. It's not fair to those who have never read it and pick up the old version only to find out that there is another 'extended' version that they should have bought instead.
"Do we want to see this happen to all our classics? Are the author and publisher being fair to us by doing this? Those of us who collect are just about forced to buy this is they want to have a complete set of that writer's work."
As you can imagine, Sandy's message brought forth a great deal of discussion. AAR Managing Editor Blythe Barnhill disagreed, seeing this new book as similar to a "Director's Cut" in the film industry. If the new Whitney is the book Judith McNaught really wanted to write, with its lengthier ending, and if she has the clout to get the re-write published, then what's the problem?
Laura Jane wrote that Stephen King's The Stand was re-written by the author similarly. When the book was originally released, the author wasn't a superstar in the publishing industry. The book was severely edited in such a way that the author wasn't happy with the final version. When he became a best-selling author, he re-wrote the book as he had originally envisioned. Laura Jane preferred the lengthier version.
On the other hand, there's Nancy Beth, who wrote, "Perhaps in the next edition (of Little Women) Beth can live and become a single mother."
That's a Wrap!
As usual, I've run out of room! Next time you'll find some reader-generated segments about "the buddy romance" and "the male brain." Also in the works is an interview segment with Judith McNaught herself.
Time to Post to the Message Board:
Feel the Heat: Are too many heroines written as doormats for your liking? Which heroines gave as good as they got or had a quiet dignity you loved?
Anger & Passion: Does kissing make you senseless? Is make-up sex all it's cracked up to be? Which books have effectively utilized anger and passion in a believable love scene? Which ones strained credulity?
Boycotting & the Re-Write: Let's lay it all out on the table:
What questions would you like me to ask Judith McNaught in our interview?
|Post your comments and/or questions to our Potpourri Message Board


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1844. In August, Delegates from seven churches met, pursuant to previous arrangement, at New Bethel Church, Leake county, for the purpose of organizing an Association. Eld. E. Wilbanks was called to the chair as Moderator, and J. G. Crecelius to act as Clerk. The letters from the several churches having been read, and the names of the Delegates enrolled, the Convention proceeded to appoint committees, and then adjourned till Monday. The Convention met pursuant to adjournment, and, the Constitution and Articles of Faith having been read and adopted, the Moderator declared the Association duly organized. A hymn of praise was sung, and the right hand of fellowship extended to the Delegates.
The Association then convened and chose the same Moderator and Clerk.
Correspondence arranged with two Associations, viz: the Primitive Baptist and Noxubee.
"Resolved, That our reasons for withdrawing from the Mt. Pisgah Association be read, which was done. And on further motion, the same was adopted."
"When, in view of passing events, conscience points out the necessity of breaking asunder the bonds of union which have hitherto bound together those who profess to be of the same sentiments, and to be governed by the same laws, and rules, it becomes those who dissent or separate themselves from others, to set forth their reasons for such separation.
"Therefore, we, who have hitherto been members of the Mt. Pisgah Baptist Association, hereby make known our reasons for separating ourselves from those brethren who still choose to remain in that body.
"1. Because they hold and publish to the world that there is now more gospel Ministers than there is money to send out. (See Minutes of the Baptist State Convention of May 4, 1838, page 7.)
"2. Because they hold and publish to the world that embarrassments in pecuniary matters have obstructed some of the holiest enterprises for the advancement of Messiah's Kingdom. (See Third Annual Report of American and Foreign Bible Society.)
"3. Because they are in the practice of buying and selling life membership in Societies under the pretension of spreading the Gospel, thereby placing the Gospel side by side with common merchandise, and placing the poor brother on an unequal footing with the rich hypocrite. (See Constitution of the American Baptist Home Mission Society, article 3.)
"4. Because they employ men at high stipulated wages to go out, preach, and act as agents in collecting money and laying the claims of education before the churches. (See minutes of the Baptist State Convention, 1843, appendix A, page 8.)
"5. Because they hold and publish to the world that large sums of money can be spent with prudence, economy and profit, in advancing Christ's Kingdom, if such sums, can be obtained; and if such sums cannot be obtained, such profitable efforts cannot be effected—thereby laying such stress upon money, as to make the advancement of the Redeemer's Kingdom entirely dependent on the amount of money that can be raised, thereby placing the salvation of God's Church on human efforts and contingency, which is in direct violation of God's system of salvation as revealed in his written and infallible word, which he has given for the rule of our faith and practice. (See Tenth Annual Report of the Baptist Home Missionary Society, page 18, April 1842.)
"These are some of the reasons that impel us to the course which we are now pursuing. We do not wish to be understood as saying, that all the brethren, from whom we have separated, are in the direct and immediate practice of all the unscriptural and newly invented schemes against which we here complain, or that all of them directly favor or sustain all the mammon— like schemes of the present day Societies, which were never participated in by the Baptists until within our recollection. But we hold such brethren to be in disorder, for countenancing and continuing in fellowship with those who are practicing and endeavoring to carry out such worldly and unscriptural measures as we have herein set forth. We are unwilling to give up the long cherished doctrine and sentiments upon which the Baptists have relied ever since the Lord Jesus Christ established his church on earth. Finally, brethren, addressing ourselves to you who profess to be particular Baptists of the old school, but, who are suffering such things to be preached and practiced amongst you, as are learned from men, and not from the word of God; it is for you to say—not us —whether we can longer walk in union with you. We regret, and so must you, to see brethren professing the same faith, severing themselves from each other—but, brethren, if you compel us either to sanction the traditions and inventions of men as religious obligations, or to separate ourselves from you, the sin lieth at your own door. Thus, brethren, our appeal is to you—you may treat it with contempt, if you can despise the cause for which we contend in conformity with the word of God."
1845. In October, the Association convened at Antioch Church, Scott county—9 churches represented.
Eld. S. Berry preached the introductory sermon.
Eld. E. Wilbanks chosen Moderator, and J. G. Crecelius, Clerk.
Correspondence received from Zion's Rest and Primitive Baptist Associations.
Correspondence arranged with the same two, and the Noxubee Baptist Association.
Elds. W. H. Crawford, G. W. McDonald, N. Morris, and Eli McDonald, preached on Sunday, in the order of their names.
"A wonderful and horrible thing is committed in the land; the Prophets prophesy falsely, and the Priests bear rule by their means; and my people love to have it so; and what will ye do in the end thereof?—Jer. v: 30, 31. The usual length of a circular forbids our entering largely upon this text. The Prophet, in the preceding part of this chapter, very plainly exhibits the inconsistency of the Jews, and God's anger against them. In the 21st verse of this chapter they are called foolish people, and without understanding; though they are said to have eyes and see not, ears and hear not. A horrible thing, indeed, that professors of Christianity should entertain and exercise towards each other a spirit of hatred, envy and malice; and that men professing to be preachers, instead of being determined to know nothing in their ministerial labors, save Christ and him crucified, have turned aside into vain quarreling, stirring up strife and contention, not unfrequently making their sermons introductory to whatever Society they wish to bring to the notice of their auditory., and in which they themselves feel the most interested. The members yielding their assent to such wonderful and horrible things as are committed in the land, are sometimes led into hateful and envious opposition to each other; and suffer themselves to be ruled and Priest— ridden by those Judaizing teachers—and wonderful indeed that many seem to love to have it so. It is a fact worthy of remark, that the members of many churches generally imbibe the spirit of their pastor or supply, and we are not alone in believing, that if the spirit that dwelt in Christ had also dwelt in them, those works of the flesh would never have been manifested to such a shameful and sinful degree as has been the case amongst the Baptists of this country. If half the zeal and energy which have been exerted in favor of the missionary cause, had been to fulfill the scripture duty in administering to the poor, that 'horrible thing' would not have been committed in the land— the preachers would not have preached falsely, and the deacons would not have ruled by their means, and the people would not have loved to have it so; but 'what will ye do in the end thereof.' Read Mat. xxv: 31— 46."
1846. In October, the Association convened at Primitive Church, Neshoba county—8 churches represented.
Eld. R. R. Fortson preached the introductory sermon.
Elds. W. H. Crawford, R. R. Fortson, G. W. McDonald, and E. Y. Terrell preached on Sunday.
Correspondence arranged with three Associations, viz: The Primitive, Predestinarian and Zion's Rest.
1848. In October, the Association convened at New Chapel Church, Scott county—9 churches represented.
Eld. S. Hansbrough preached the introductory sermon.
Elds. J. A. Scott, M. Hopson and W. Roberts preached on Sunday.
Arranged correspondence with three Associations, viz: The Primitive, Predestinarian and Zion's Rest.
1849.In October, the Association convened at Lebanon Church, Scott county—8 churches represented.
Query from New Chapel Church.— "Is is good order for a church to grant a member a letter of dismission who lives in the immediate settlement of the church, and is not going to move, and no other church of the same faith and order within convenient distance of such applicant?"
Answer.—"We believe it to be good order for a church to grant letters in all cases to members in full fellowship —the church to exercise a sound discretion agreeable to the Gospel."
1850.In October, the Association convened at the Primitive Church, Newton county—10 churches represented.
Eld. W. Roberts preached the introductory sermon.
Query.—"What shall this Association do with a church that permits her members to join and frequent Free Mason Lodges?"
Answer.—"Withdraw from such a church as a disorderly member."
"Whereas, it is represented and established to the satisfaction of this Association, that Edinburgh church is in disorder by retaining in her fellowship a member who has attached himself to the Free Masons. Therefore,
"Resolved, That this Association recommend to four churches of her union, viz: Lebanon, New Bethel. Primitive and Antioch, that they appoint three delegates each, to meet with Edinburgh Church, on Saturday before the fifth Sunday in December next, to labor with said church and effect a reconciliation if possible."
We have now disposed of all the minutes in our possession, except a few scattering minutes of Buttahatchy and Zion's Rest. From a minute of the former in 1846, we learn that five churches of her union were located in Mississippi and the balance in Alabama. And from a minute of Zion's Rest Association in 1847, we learn that eight churches were in the former State and the balance in the latter.
Besides the foregoing there are three other Old School Baptist Associations which are wholly or in part in this State, viz: Pilgrim's Rest, on the eastern border; Predestinarian, in the South— east, and New Hope, in the North— east.
The Zion, Choctaw. Mt. Pisgah, and perhaps some other Associations, were organized on Old School Baptist principles. But as they are now 'joined to their idols' and harmoniously building with the New School Baptists, we shall 'let them alone.' However highly we may esteem some of their members individually, we are constrained to renounce their system of religion as unauthorized by the Scriptures—insiduously tending to evil and not too good. This conclusion may seem like presumption to those whose opinions are formed from specious appearances. But we can only decide by a strict comparison with the divine Rule, aided by our measure of faith and experience. And according to these, we not only reject their effort system, but deplore the course of some in its support, from whom we had good grounds to hope for better things.
The Primitive or Old School Baptists cling to the doctrines and practices held by Baptist Churches throughout America at the close of the Revolutionary War. This site is dedicated to providing access to our rich heritage, with both historic and contemporary writings.

subset: commoncrawl


text:
TC TO JOHN A. CARLYLE ; 6 July 1855; DOI: 10.1215/lt-18550706-TC-JAC-01; CL 30: 4-6
Chelsea 6 july 1855—
Dear Brother,
The inclosed came last night; and is evidently for you, tho' I opened it without dubitations. If you want anything more to be done in reference to that Köhler1 (except perhaps ordering it to be left here till you come) you can let me know.
The weather has grown very hot; but there is generally some breath of air, especially in the night, which makes it tolerable. We are longing for the sea shore; talking about Sandgate2 &c &c. I could carry plenty of work along with me: but the difficulties of quiet are very formidable in the pass I am now at.
The business of the old Johnson God-daughters is at last finished: it was just on the edge of getting into the Times, when the Govt (great in the smallest things) after 4 weeks of obstinate absolute silence, saw good to concede what was wanted (or the better part of it) still in an "infinitely shabby manner," as Forster defines it. I am very thankful to be quit.
Tait had me the other day3 at the "Crystal Palace";—road to it I found to be extremely uninviting; the place itself beautiful and wonderful, beyond all the raree-shews ever offered for 1 / ; what I called the Apotheosis of Cockneyism; and intrinsically not a beauty at all! To "learn," &c &c out of it seemed to me very impossible.4 However I did see certain Stone Portraits (French Maréchals, Fredk Wilhelm even); and was much delighted with the Group of Niobe5 whh I had never seen copied before at all.
Erskine is off; I had a note from him of date Edinr, the other day: he is going home in about a week, he intimates.6 No 1 of the "National Review" (Martineau's Anti-Chapman)7 is come this morning: if it seem worth a groat (whh the Westminster absolutely is not) I will send it perhaps about Tuesday next.— Arbuckle marriage cards8 of a sublime pattern were left here; nothing more as yet.— Kind regards to Jamie & Isabella.
Yours ever /
T. Carlyle


text:
[Reprinted with permission of Department of Defense]
Rent Condominiums for $209/Week
By Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON -- Service members and DoD civilians can sign up to participate in a new vacation club arranged between Army Morale, Welfare and Recreation and Resort Condominiums International.
The deal allows service members and DoD civilians to stay in condominium units for $209 per week at selected resorts. The
normal rates are $600 to $1,500 per week in season, according to John Cully, RCI national vice president.
"I have gotten phones calls from scores of individual MWR offices talking about how great the program is -- gotten e-mails
from places like Roanoke, Va., asking how to sign up," said Dan Yount, chief of Army leisure travel services. "The program seems to have a lot of response from people."
Yount said he thinks the program is a good deal for service members and DoD civilians. "I've stayed in some of these places
at a much higher rate," he said. "It costs me $1,000-plus. So $209 a week for anything from a three-bedroom unit to an
efficiency is a good deal. Also, these units are renovated every three years. These are great places."
Army MWR tested its Armed Forces Vacation Club at 18 military installations in the Washington, D.C., area from November 1998 to February 1999. Officials called the response excellent and expanded the program nationwide Aug. 1. It is not available for service members and civilians overseas, but Army officials say it may expand in the future.
RCI is a managing company affiliated with more than 3,500 time-share resorts worldwide. Because not all resort units are used
by owners or rented all the time, the company must still pay upkeep costs, but receives no revenue while units are vacant.
Sales vice president Mike Overfelt and Culley, both retired Army officers, suggested RCI offer condo rentals at cost to military
members and DoD civilians.
"This way we're able to cover expenses and the service member is getting a fun, cheap vacation," Overfelt said.
In the arrangement between the Army and RCI, service members and DoD civilians can go to any military morale, welfare and
recreation office and pick up an Armed Forces Vacation Club space-available voucher. They then call [800] 724-9988 and speak to an RCI representative, who will describe what's available.
Service members or civilians give the voucher number and reserve a condo using a major credit card. The MWR office receives $20 for every voucher it issues that is used.
Some restrictions apply. Confirmed vacations are not transferable. The customer purchasing the space-available
voucher must check in to the resort and be at least 21 years old. Pets are not allowed at any resort location.
Cully said service members and civilians must be flexible with their requests. "You're not going to get Vail (Colorado) at
Christmas," he said. "Generally what's available is off-season."
Participating resorts have different amenities. Typically, condos feature up to three bedrooms, a living room and fully
equipped full or partial kitchens. Many units have laundry facilities or such amenities as whirlpool tubs or fireplaces.
Guests have access to on-site or nearby facilities, such as beaches, golf courses, tennis courts, spas, ski slopes, fishing
lakes, hiking paths, horseback riding, restaurants and shops. Many resorts also provide planned adult and children's
RCI is a time-share company, but service members and DoD civilians have no obligation to sit through sales pitches or
other presentations, Yount said.
For information on the program or to pick up a voucher, stop by your local MWR office.


text:
Buffalo is famous for its robust, delicious and uniquely western New York foods. Probably most famous of all is its aptly named Buffalo chicken wings, consumed in great quantities at sporting events, friendly get-togethers, and for any reason Buffalonians can think of. Some are served with hot sauce to rival molten lava, while others are served milder.
First created by downtown Buffalo's Anchor Bar in 1964, chicken wings have spread in popularity across the nation and beyond. Today, some 66 percent of casual dining eateries list within their menus Buffalo-style chicken wings. They have reached iconic status in American gastronomic culture.
The general concensus of cigar aficionados is that cigars, like fine wine, should be matched to the food it is to be consumed with or to follow. For instance, as a complex cabernet or claret, both full bodied and complex wines of French origin, compliments a hearty steak, so too should something as spicy and flavorful as Buffalo's famous chicken wings be accompanied or finished with a cigar that will stand up to and provide an excellent partner. A milder cigar might be entirely overshadowed with the intense spices of the Buffalo wings.
A maduro, a cigar with a chocolaty, sometimes oiled leather appearance, is among the more full flavored cigars. Cigar producers ferment the maduro wrappers longer, achieving the earthier flavors coveted by cigar aficionados. Paired with the take-your-breath-away abundance of spices in Buffalo wings, and the maduro will stand up nicely. Add to that a belicoso, or churchill-sized maduro, and the cigar can be enjoyed through the meal and still have enough remaining to provide a relaxing finish.


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A federal government website managed by the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services
200 Independence Avenue, S.W. - Washington, D.C. 20201
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All Resources
|Cyberbullying: Intervention and Prevention Strategies
|Tips & Facts
|Ted Feinberg, EdD; National Association of School Psychologists
Describes the characteristics of cyberbullying, the impact of cyberbullying, the changing environment with digital media, and relevant strategies for prevention and intervention in schools.
Topics: Prevention, Respond to Bullying, Cyberbullying
For more info please visit http://www.nasponline.org/resources/bullying/Cyberbullying.pdf
|Sexual Harrassment: A Guide for School Personnel
|Tips & Facts
|Ellie Young, PhD, Betty Ashbaker, PhD, & Bryan Young; National Association of School Psychologists
Offers and overview of sexual harrassment, prevalence, impact, and recommended intervention and prevention strategies.
Topics: LGBT, Schools, Gender
For more info please visit http://www.nasponline.org/resources/bullying/Sexual_Harassment.pdf
|School Psychology Review; Special Series: Interventions for Relational Aggression: Innovative Programming and Next Steps
A special volume of SPR, an academic journal, with all articles focusing on interventions for relational aggression.
Topics: Prevention, Respond to Bullying, Schools
For more info please visit http://www.nasponline.org/publications/spr/index.aspx?vol=39&issue=4
|Bullies and Victims: A Primer for Parents
|Tips & Facts
|Kathy Robison, EdS; National Association of School Psychologists
Offers a broad summary of bullying for parents, including an overview of bullying, characteristics of students that may pose as risk factors, and strategies for parents with children involved in bullying.
Topics: None
For more info please visit http://www.nasponline.org/resources/bullying/Bullying_Primer.pdf
|Electronic Aggression: Technology and Youth Voice
|Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
This page from CDC's Injury Prevention Center offers a range of resources, grounded in consultations with experts and the latest research, related to cyberbullying and electronic aggression.
Topics: Cyberbullying
For more info please visit http://www.cdc.gov/ViolencePrevention/youthviolence/electronicaggression/index.html
|Confronting Bullying: Overview, Response, and Partnerships
|Conference Materials
|Federal Partners in Bullying Prevention
This PowerPoint presentation offers information on how to control bullying online through Facebook, including an overview of the privacy settings and other Facebook safety features
Topics: Cyberbullying
For more info please visit http://www.findyouthinfo.gov/docs/bullyingSummit/facebook-confronting_bullying_overview_response_and_partnerships.pptx
|Cyberbullying: What we know, what we can do
|Conference Materials
|Federal Partners in Bullying Prevention
This PowerPoint presentation offers facts and research about cyberbullying, including what work needs to be done for future progress.
Topics: Cyberbullying
For more info please visit http://www.findyouthinfo.gov/docs/bullyingSummit/cyberbullying_what_we_know_what_we_can_do.ppt
|Help Your Intellectually Disabled Child Handle Bullying
|Tips & Facts
|Hartwell-Walker, M
Children with intellectual disabilities are particularly prone to bullying. This article addresses how parents can help their children with intellectual disabilities handle bullying and bullies.
Topics: Disabilities & Special Needs
For more info please visit http://psychcentral.com/lib/2011/help-your-intellectually-disabled-child-handle-bullying/
|Bullying in Schools: An Overview
|U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ)
This bulletin examines the connection between different types and frequencies of bullying, truancy, and student achievement, and whether students' engagement in school mediates these factors. The authors conclude that victimization in the form of bullying can distance students from learning. Schools can overcome this negative effect if they adopt strategies that engage students in their work, creating positive learning environments that produce academic achievement.
Topics: Schools, Prevention
For more info please visit http://www.ojjdp.gov/pubs/234205.pdf
|Understanding Bullying Within the Camp Setting: Tips for Parents Tip Sheet
|Tips & Facts
|Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA)
Camp is similar to school and other settings in which children and youth gather—in that bullying does occur. Children engaging in new activities, meeting new friends, establishing varying social groups at camp, and sharing living quarters with other campers present challenges to even the most well-adjusted child.
Topics: Youth Development, Prevention, Respond to Bullying
For more info please visit http://www.stopbullying.gov/resources-files/bullying-at-camp-tipsheet.pdf


text:
According to reports, Tyesha Hamilton plunged her 2 year old daughter Alexandria into scalding water (Suchetka, Plain Dealer). Accurately stated, this was a form of punishment. The incident may be one of the cruelest examples of such. Yet, the question remains - what are the boundaries, what are the rules when it comes to the discipline of a child?
For some, the rules are simple. Mimic or modify learned disciplinary actions and boundaries. Through 2007, stats suggest that all too often these boundaries are crossed leading to almost five child fatalities daily.
There is no disputing the fact that children need discipline. How that discipline is administered however, is a point of debate. Two schools of thought exist. One doesn't understand how love is shown, when a parent strikes a child. While another feeling is how the lack of such discipline reflects a lack of love for the child. The latter belief most closely resembles the biblical view.
The bible says that the Lord chastens those He loves (Heb 12:6). Job states that a man whom God corrects is happy, therefore he should not despise the Lord's chastisement (Job 5:17). Chastisement is encouraged in scripture. According to Proverbs, one who spares the rod (the rod of correction) hates his son (Prov 13:24).
If scripture encourages this type of chastisement, doesn't that open the door for a parent to go too far?
The scriptures depict God as a loving Father. In context with His character and nature, His actions are synchronized with his attitude. That is the attitude of love. God's sole intent for discipline and chastisement is training and correction. There is no intent to harm. The discomfort of the chastisement is simply to discourage a specific behavior. To slap a child on their hand is not to break that hand; it is to discourage the action of the hand. In order to avoid a tragedy like Alexandria's, both action and attitude must be considered in the practice of scripture.
Scripture cannot be brought into question because of a mother who has no harness for her emotions. The bible gives no license to abuse children as means of correction or punishment. But rather, it equips parent to instill the fear of God in their children, through Godly discipline.
For more information on Child Abuse:
1. Child Help
2. Children and Family Services


text:
Hotel Melon
Cordele, GA 31015
Hotel Melon is designed with you in mind. We've tailored each room, our hospitality and amenities to make your stay is as enjoyable and relaxing as possible. We hope that our attention to detail shines through each and every moment of your stay.
Our rooms offer the elegance, class and comfort you have been looking for your whole life. With our modern and fun motif, you're sure to enjoy any stay with us, whether you're here on business or for some fun. And all of our beds offer you the luxurious comfort of pillowtop mattresses, so you can ensure that you'll sleep soundly.
Info & Amenities
Hours of Operation
Sunday: All Day
Monday: All Day
Tuesday: All Day
Wednesday: All Day
Thursday: All Day
Friday: All Day
Saturday: All Day
Facility Amenities
Bus / Motorcoach Parking on Site, Complimentary Newspaper, Continental Breakfast Served, Free Local Calls, Free Parking, Full-Service Business Center, Outdoor Pool, Restaurant Nearby
General Information
ADA-compliant, Pets Accepted
Internet Connectivity
High-Speed In Public Space, Wi-Fi in Public Space


text:
The Rolling Stones 50 and Counting Tour has placed in the top 5 of Pollstar's Top 200 North American Tours of 2013.
According to Pollstar's newly released statistics posted Jan. 10 at Pollstar.com, the legendary British rockers were the fourth biggest touring act in North America during 2013 with gross earnings of $87.7 million dollars, despite playing only 18 shows in 11 cities - a fraction of the shows performed by all other top touring artists.
Boasting an average ticket price of $228.71, the "Satisfaction" hitmakers AEG Live produced 50 and Counting Tour grossed a whopping per show average of $7,969,275 per show - both stats by far the highest of any other act on the list.
The World's Greatest Rock n' Roll Band's average ticket price was nearly three times that of first place artist Taylor Swift ($84.40), who averaged a mere $2,397,872 per show, but performed 66 shows (nearly four times as many as The Stones) to earn top spot with a total gross of $112.7 million, followed by Bon Jovi ($107.3) and Kenny Chesney ($90.9).
The Stones earned three nominations at the 56th annual Grammy Awards, which will be held Jan. 26 at the Staples Center in Los Angeles and will kick off their 14 on Fire Tour on Feb. 21 in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates at du Arena.
Did you know? The Rolling Stones 50 and Counting Tour recently topped Forbes magazine's "2013's Top Ten Most Expensive Concert Tours," by commanding a mind-boggling average ticket price of $624.00 on the secondary market.


text:
LOS ANGELES (LALATE EXCLUSIVE) – Lil Snupe is dead. Lil Snupe has died, his death confirmed by the rapper's manager moments ago, LALATE can report. Lil Snupe, a Meek Mill signed rapper, died in a shooting attack overnight.
Lil Snupe is dead following an apparent shooting that erupted last night June 19, 2013 sometime after dusk. Details concerning Lil Snupe's death were not confirmed by representatives. But moments ago, the rapper's rep confirm news of the tragic death.
Leem7st on his Twitter account @leem7st lists himself as one of the Lil Snupe's mangers. He tweeted just after 7 am PST today "The call I got this morning is un real RIP 2 my Lil n– lilsnupe." He then tweeted the above Instagram image showing Lil Snupe in the foreground.
Fans were left in disbelief. "Dats crazy..rest in paradise", wrote one fan. As reported earlier today, initial rumor of the death prompted doubt among followers. With the Leem7st confirmation, fans expressed their horror and sadness. "I didn't believe it this his manger said it." Another sad simply "so sad, RIP". Lil Snupe's listed manger on his Twitter account D.Bradford has yet to comment about the news.
Lil Snupe Pictures
Lil Snupe Photo 1
Lil Snupe Photo 2
Lil Snupe Photo 3
Lil Snupe Photo 4
The rapper's final tweets were just after dinner last night. "I Hold it Down 4 Louisiana", he proclaimed. He told fans where to catch him for upcoming dates. "Meet Me At Club Diamonds This Friday N Farmerville". Earlier he added "Harrisburg July 6Th", "New Castle July 6th".
Fans became concerned overnight when Meek Mill delivered a fateful tweet. "'tell lil snupe hit me up right now!!!" It is believed that the shooting death occurred around the time of Meek Mill's tweet. No details about the death has yet to be indicated by the rapper's reps. Funeral arrangements have not been announced to news. Send your love.


text: I've just bought the game today and not too impressed that I have to install this steam thing too. I also noticed that my game is added to the steam folder and there was no data folder or fm.exe file until I installed the patch. What's the point of this steam anyway and does this automatically install patches for you? I remember there was another option instead of steam when installing. What's the difference?


text:
Fire Safety is something most of us do not think enough about
Every year fire departments across the nation respond to thousands of nuisance alarms on college campuses. The primary cause of nuisance alarms is unattended cooking. Everyone leads a very busy lifestyle and with advances in technology we sometimes forget we need to stay aware of our cooking habits. When cooking on the stove or in the microwave never leave the area. If a fire does start on the stove place a lid over the pot, and turn off the burner. If in the microwave turn off the power and leave the door closed. These simple tips will insure your safety and help reduce the number of nuisance alarms.
Below is a short video that addresses the issue of off campus fires. Since 2000, 73% of all fires related to college campuses happen in off campus housing.
Upcoming Events/Activities
RA Fair
19th of August
We will be offering extinguisher demos.


text:
In the last 18 months, non-spec—or counterfeit—parts have again emerged, and fasteners are no exception.
Their offshore manufacturers cut corners or don't adhere to proper specifications. Often made from mild steel, with coatings that fail to protect from corrosion, these substandard parts typically have short life spans.
In the United States, fasteners are made to standards established by the Society of Automotive Engineers, the American Society of Mechanical Engineers, and American Society for Testing and Materials. Lines on the bolt or nut head pointing to the corners of the hex-head identify grades. Three radiating lines point to every other corner for Grade 5, and six point to each corner for Grade 8. Both are tough and able to resist strong lateral forces. A letter or symbol identifies the manufacturer.
Counterfeit bolts are made to lesser standards. Known counterfeits identified by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration include those marked FM, H, KS, M, MS, NF, RT, or by the lack of a manufacturer's symbol.
The best way to avoid buying counterfeits is to know your source. Beyond that, examine parts against those being replaced.
For instance, substandard parts may weigh less due to weaker materials or thin construction. Often all counterfeit parts in a lot will have the same serial number stamped on them.
But basically, if a deal seems too good to be true, there's a great chance it's counterfeit.
Best Practices
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2016 Hanley Wood Media, Inc. All rights reserved.


text:
A secluded and private fishing and hunting camp for sale in Ontario complete with two extraordinary Finn-artisan-built winterized log homes situated on 1,800 feet of pristine lake frontage. Each home has its own wood-fired sauna log cabin near the lake shore. The homes feature verandas with beautiful southern views of Scotch Lake, which is located a few miles south of the Trans-Canadian Highway between Winnipeg and Thunder Bay. The property includes sand beaches, sheltered docks for boats and float planes, a historic lumber camp workshed, and additional building sites. The mature-forested property is a magnificent and unique real estate treasure, completely surrounded by Ontario Crown land, the largest of only a few patents ever granted on this prolific lake, which is blessed with abundant walleye (or "pickerel"), northern pike and bass, great birds of prey, moose and bear.
One thought on "Exclusive Fishing and Hunting Camp for Sale Ontario, Canada"
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text:
> Mortgages
The rise in energy prices isn't news to the majority of Canadians, who heat their homes with natural gas, oil or electricity. For Luke Dobben, a dairy farmer in Moorefield, Ont., it meant a $4,000 annual oil bill. That was until he installed a geothermal system that provides heat, air conditioning and some hot water to his 120-year-old farmhouse, saving him $2,600 the first year alone.
"We didn't know what oil prices were going to do over the next few years and we needed a new furnace, chimney and tank anyway," says Dobben. "It's a little more expensive to put in, but my wife and I thought over the long haul it would still be better."
How it works
The ground absorbs about half of the sun's energy that hits the earth. Year-round, about six feet below the surface, the earth maintains a constant temperature of between 10 and 15 degrees Celsius. Geothermal heat pumps work by capturing this heat and transferring it to your home.
If you could take a look under the cornfield next to Dobben's farmhouse, you'd find a closed loop system made up of hundreds of feet of high-density polyethylene pipes buried below the frost line and filled with diluted antifreeze. His system features pipes laid in a horizontal configuration, though a costlier vertical design can also be used depending on the amount of space available and the surrounding terrain.
The antifreeze mixture travels through the pipes absorbing heat before entering his home through the basement. Here, the pipes connect to a geothermal unit that's about the same size as a traditional furnace. A heat exchanger extracts the heat from the fluid and a compressor upgrades the heat to the desired temperature. This warmed air is then circulated through the home through the same ductwork used for his old forced-air furnace system.
Instead of drawing heat from the ground, an open loop system draws water from the bottom of a deep well, lake or aquifer. An open system is more efficient than a closed system and is cheaper to install but is more susceptible to complications such as minerals in the water, which can degrade the system, or a depletion of the water source.
The beauty of geothermal systems is that in the summer, a flick of a switch reverses the fluid flow and the warm air from the house is discharged back into the ground. Homeowners get the benefit of heating and cooling in one unit, eliminating the need for a separate furnace and air conditioner. There's also no need to turn down the system during peak demand periods.
Good for the homeowner
There's no chimney or venting required and no flame or combustible gases that have to be stored or piped into a home, lessening the risk of environmental spills or damage (some insurance companies even offer discounts for geothermal units.) Geothermal is also a good option for rural homes that are located far from a natural gas pipeline.
With proper maintenance, such as monthly filter changes and annual antifreeze top-ups, a system should last more than 25 years, though the compressor might last only 10 years.
In addition to the heating and cooling functions, there are units that supplement hot water heating. These essentially bring the home's water temperature up to 75 degrees "for free."
The other bonus is the quality of the heat. Geothermal units maintain a very even temperature throughout the house so there isn't the blast of hot air or draughts common to combustion furnaces.
Good for the environment
Unlike fossil fuels, as long as the sun keeps shining, the earth will continue to replenish this energy source. "Energy is all from the ground," says Arnold Bosman of Bostech Mechanical Ltd., a geothermal dealer in Moorefield, Ont. "It's completely renewable and it's free. It just costs to get it out of there."
In fact, according to the David Suzuki Foundation, "geothermal heat pumps are the most energy-efficient, cost-effective and environmentally friendly home heating and cooling systems available."
This is good news for a country that produces about 700 megatonnes of greenhouses gases each year (equal to two percent of total global emissions from a country with half of one percent of the population.) Forty-five megatonnes of emissions come from residential buildings alone.
Geothermal heating systems can help reduce greenhouse gas emissions by more than two-thirds, depending on the alternative source of power available (there's a greater reduction of emissions for homes that rely on coal-fired generators or oil-burning furnaces that those that use electricity.) Homes can even be 100 percent emission-free if the energy used to power the compressor unit is sourced from solar panels or a green power distributor.
Even though the heat exchange and compressor require electricity to run, the costs to extract the heat are still cheaper than with traditional heating systems.
"It's the cheapest operating cost of any heating or cooling system for a residential or commercial application," says Travis Schmidt, business development coordinator for NextEnergy Inc., a distributor of geothermal systems in Elmira, Ont. Compared to oil, propane and electricity, utility bills are almost one-quarter the cost and compared to natural gas, they're one-half the cost.
"Our entire utility bill for our house -- heat, hydro, electricity and hot water -- is equivalent to what we paid for just heat in our old house," says Joanne Fritz, owner of a two-year-old, 2,900-square-foot home in Wellesley, Ont. equipped with a horizontal loop.
The downside
Although this technology has been around for 30 years, there are only an estimated 30,000 installations in use for residential, commercial, institutional and industrial applications in Canada. "There is still some apprehension as to how the system works," says Bosman. "[People are asking,] 'If the ground is cold, how does hot air get in?'"
Still, besides the major excavation that needs to be done to install the loop (though the entire system can usually be installed in three days,) the biggest obstacle to a more widespread adoption of geothermal technology is the large upfront capital cost. A typical 2,000-square-foot home in central Canada might require $20,000 for a horizontal loop and even more for a vertical loop.
"It's definitely more expensive to install," says Bosman. "However, if you're a customer starting from scratch or if you require a furnace that needs replacing, a new chimney liner or a new oil tank, you have a substantial investment that you're looking at already." He says the additional cost is typically a five to six year "payback," which refers to the number of years before the savings in annual operating costs exceed your initial cost to install.
So whether you're looking to reduce your fuel costs or do your part to help the environment, you might want to take a second look at the ground beneath your feet.
"Geothermal can be put in almost every home in Canada," says Schmidt. "There are cost factors that need to be considered and a few limitations as to where loops can be put in, but aside from significant infrastructure beneath a property, there are very few places geothermal can't go."
Fiona Wagner is a freelance writer in Georgetown, Ont.
* Mortgage rate may include points. See rate tables
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text:
Pictures from high above 7: Wind turbines
North is to the right
We flew over this field of wind turbines during my flight to Montreal back in October. There are more of them in the uncropped image. This place was south of the town of Lowville. My picture of Lowville from the airplane is in this post. Otherwise, I can't pinpoint the location; the pictures of this area in Google Earth are of low resolution or they may have been taken before the wind turbines were built. But I suspect this is the Maple Ridge Wind Farm near Lowville.
Here is a detail from the fully blown image.


text:
Given a (real) plane, I know the definition of tangent space for irreducible varieities. (If $P \in V(f_1, \cdots, f_n)$ irreducible, then $T_P V = V(f^{(1)}_{1,P},\cdots, f^{(1)}_{n,P})$.
Suppose $V=V_1\cup V_2$ is an irreducible decomposition. Then by taking the irreducible components, one can define tangent spaces for points not in intersection. But if $P \in V_1 \cap V_2$, what is the definition?
For an easy examples, let $V(xy)=V(x) \cup V(y)$. If we follow the definition in the above paragraph, then tangent spaces for $(0,t) \ (t\neq 0)$ will be $V(x)$, similarly for x-axis gives $V(y)$. What's for origin?
It should be the whole plane as I take a look at some books. But I don't know why. False attempt: $O \in V(x,y)$ so that tangent space is just $V(x,y)=O$, a point. What's the problem?