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TCT: Browse Programs Filter by: Speakers
Julie and Friends
Julie and friends discuss challenging women's issues in depth, share crafts, cooking segments, and interview guests in this inspiring and fun-filled variety program. Available On Demand+ More
Len & Cathy
In this half-hour program, Len and Cathy Mink focus on faith, success, prosperity, family and the power of the Word to transform any circumstance to victory. Available On Demand+ More
Joseph Prince
With more than two decades of full-time ministry behind him, Joseph Prince is today a leading voice in proclaiming the gospel of grace around the world through his books, teaching resources, and television ministry. The best-selling author of...+ More
Ask the Pastor
Ask the Pastor is one of our most popular programs where viewers can phone, write, or email in questions about the bible or the christian way. These questions get answered live on air by a panel of pastors from local churches. Available On...+ More
Getting to Know Your Bible
Reach as many as possible with the Gospel+ More
Through the Bible with Les Feldick
A step by step dispensational Bible study.+ More
Ancient Jewish Wisdom
Rabbi Daniel Lapin and wife Susan delve into the mysteries of the Bible to discover Ancient Jewish Wisdom. Available On Demand+ More
Faith In History
William J. Federer is a nationally known speaker, best selling author, and president of a publishing company dedicated to researching America's Christian heritage. During this half-hour program learn answers to various questions about Faith...+ More
John Hagee
"The mission of John Hagee Ministries is to aggressively fulfill the commission that Jesus Christ gave to His followers to go into the world and make disciples of all people." Pastor John C. Hagee is the founder and Senior Pastor of...+ More
Joyce Meyer Ministries: Enjoying Everyday Life
Author and Bible teacher Joyce Meyer will deliver a series of inspirational and powerful messages of faith, love and grace taken from the Word of God, as she relays her own personal experiences in order to encourage others to enjoy daily...+ More
International Fellowship
Coalition of Christians and Jews that promotes understanding, respect and cooperation between the two religions in order to support Israel.+ More
Benny Hinn
"This is Your Day" with Pastor Benny Hinn features anointed worship and powerful miracles from crusade services across America and around the world that will build your faith, along with teaching from the Word of God and selected interviews....+ More
Believer's Voice of Victory with Kenneth and Gloria Copeland
Kenneth & Gloria Copeland teach about faith, love, healing, prosperity and redemption.+ More
RHEMA Praise
Originating from RHEMA Bible Church in Broken Arrow, OK,RHEMA Praise features the all-encompassing ministry of God's Word through the preaching and teaching of Kenneth W. Hagin.Rhema's impact is multifaceted and global. Continual...+ More
Life Today with James Robison
James and Betty Robison host guests who speak on a variety of topics, offering hope and help.+ More
Gospel Truth
Over forty years ago, an encounter with God changed our lives forever, and we believe He'll do the same for you. We consider it privilege to have the opportunity to share the truth of His life-changing power and grace with you.+ More
I'm Just Sayin'
Featuring some of Gospel music's best, this exciting music program will uplift, encourage, and inspire the soul! Available On Demand+ More
Eagles' Wings: Watchmen On The Wall
Reaching out with the Love of Christ To God's Chosen People and His Promised Land.+ More
Nashville Country Revival
Nashville County Revival, hosted by Bill Traylor and featuring many of Christian Country Music's brightest and best artists. Shot on location in and around Nashville, Tennessee, NCR is centered on the Gospel and born in America's Heartland.+ More
End of the Age
Irvin Baxter Prophecy Program: Preaching the Gospel of the Kingdom to every person on earth...Because the Endtime is Now!+ More
CBN News Watch
Newswatch is a half-hour daily news program reporting the latest in national and international news from a Judeo-Christian perspective.+ More
'Tween You and Me
Kids learn about God's plan for their lives through this exciting variety show complete with games, music, videos, and comedy sketches.+ More
Capt'n Chuckleberry
Capt'n Chuckleberry along with his sidekick, First Mate Kate, and their feathery friend Roscoe the Bird, have a great time aboard Tugboat Bob. Children will be engaged and explore their imagination while learning life lessons through sing-a-longs, cartoons, dancing, and great stories with Dolly the Dolphin and Benny the Bottlenose.+ More
Super Simple Science Stuff
A scientist and his assistant teach kids about science and how God is the ultimate scientist, balancing sciences and the word of God.+ More
Dr. Wonder's Workshop
Designed with children in mind, Dr. Wonder's all Deaf cast delivers in ASL ( American Sign Language) and voiced-over English, this entertaining program that teaches Bible principles through the love of Christ.+ More
Another Sommertime Adventure
Carl Sommer, a former teacher, is the author and narrator of this DVD series that impart values and principles of success to children.+ More
Gospel Bill Show
Return to Dry Gulch and join the adventures of Deputy Nicodemus, Miss Lana, Elmer Barnes, T.U. Tutwater, Cornpone, Farnsworth, Luther Bedlow, and of course Willie George as the Sheriff Gospel Bill.+ More
Sarah's Stories
As Sara tells captivating and suspenseful stories to children, which feature Biblical principles to apply to life, she is accompanied by the comedic and animated "Hermie and Friends" to illustrate the messages being delivered.+ More
The Jim Bakker Show
To present the gospel, encourage the saints and train up youth in media outreach.+ More
Come On In
Melanie Walker is a multi-award winning Christian recording artist, author and speaker. Tune in to "Come On In", to hear Melanie's music and listen to her message about overcoming obstacles and experiencing all that God's has for...+ More
Victim to Victory
Brian Arnold is known as "America's Favorite One-Handed Pianist". His musical talents and testimony of how Christ has worked in his life and the lives of his guests, will help you move from victim to victory. Available On Demand+ More
Hannah Help Me!
Life-style expert Hannah Keeley spends two days with overwhelmed moms and helps each makeover her life in this inspiring reality show.+ More
Donkey Ollie
Follow along with a donkey named Ollie through Jesus' time as he meets new characters & learns many valuable lessons along the way. Like Veggie Tales, Donkey Ollie is animated with incredible graphics, songs, and morals lessons for children.+ More
Wize Films
Wrapped in a kid-friendly format, Dr. Wize and his quirky new friends teach the deep truths of God's Word.+ More
Youth Bytes
YouthBytes with Chad Daniel! A completely relevant, fresh, and dynamic Youth Video Curriculum designed to develop the Spirit and firmly ground it in God.+ More
Health and Nutrition
Mother and daughter hosts Dee and D'Andra welcome a variety of guests from different professions as they discuss different ways to promote healthy living, covering a wealth of topics ranging from medical care to fashion and beauty.+ More
Time For Hope
A weekly Faith-Based Mental Health Talk and Interview show devoted to helping people find hope and meaning in their lives.+ More
Facing the Giants
A losing coach with an underdog football team faces their giants of fear and failure on and off the field to surprising results.+ More
Day of Discovery
Day of Discovery offers viewers a look at current and historical events, social issues, prophecy, and issues of the Christian faith.+ More
In Touch with Dr. Charles Stanley
The In Touch program, Dr. Charles Stanley's teaching ministry, is broadcast in over thirty languages to help share the Gospel to the population of the world.+ More
Down By The River
Skylar Ford is a young man who aspires to be a writer, but must balance following his dreams with helping his mother, Tammy, take care of his little sister, Hannah (Adriana Ford), who suffers from sickle cell anemia. Based on a true story....+ More
Agent Abbey
Abbey, a typical American teenager, comes face to face with persecution.+ More
This Is My Son
This is the parable of the Prodigal Son (Luke 15) set in 1950's rural America. A young man sells his interest in the family ranch only to become seduced by big-city life.+ More
Love Worth Finding
Dr. Roger's teaching seeks to bring people to Christ and mature them in their faith.+ More
Walking by Faith
Walking by Faith's weekly TV broadcast is filled with practical, Biblical teaching that wins souls and transforms lives. Our programs are here to encourage you to connect with God and apply faith in Him to your everyday life.+ More
Manna-Fest with Perry Stone
Manna-Fest is the weekly Television Program of Perry Stone that deals with in-depth prophetic and practical studies of the Word of God. As Biblical Prophecy continues to unfold, you will find Manna-Fest with Perry Stone to be a resource to...+ More
Hope For Your Health
Join Dr. Don and Susan Verhulst for their informative and uplifting program. Available On Demand+ More
Jentezen Franklin
Pastor Jentezen Franklin is known for his unique style of preaching, often utilizing powerful illustrations to tackle difficult topics with boldness to reach the people with the pure message of the gospel of Jesus Christ. Kingdom connections...+ More
Building A Difference
Building a Difference is a new documentary TV series featuring people, organizations, and charities that are truly building a difference in the lives of those in desperate need.+ More
People Who Met Jesus - Series I
A series of eight short video stories about people who met Jesus.+ More
Fruit of the Spirit
Sponsored television programming.+ More
Jack Van Impe Presents
Doctor Jack and Rexella Van Impe will combine the information from today's top stories from all around the world with their insight and understanding of biblical prophecies in an attempt to determine the timeline for God's work.+ More
Praise Today
Bishop Henry Phillips presents inspirational music at its very best in this Gospel music video program. Available On Demand+ More
Tommy Bates
Gospel music and preaching with Pastor Tommy Bates+ More
One Hit From Home
One Hit from Home is a unique sports drama that explores the unpredictability of life and reminds us that we can find hope in the midst of broken dreams.+ More
Restoration Road with Mitch Kruse
Mitch Kruse is best known for his contribution to the auction arena, especially in the areas of collector cars and real estate. In Restoration Road, the program where culture connects with Christ, Mitch hosts a variety of guests and...+ More
Celebrate Live
Join nationally known, anointed hosts and guests for an exciting hour of music and ministry in this "live" inspirational program. Available On Demand+ More
John Hagee
John Hagee presents teachings and interviews that address the core doctrines of the faith, stressing the significance of Israel for Christians today. Pastor John C. Hagee is the founder and Senior Pastor of Cornerstone Church in San Antonio,...+ More
Ever Increasing Faith with Apostle Frederick K.C. Price
Apostle Frederick K.C. Prices' primary vision is to teach the uncompromised Word of God and to proclaim the "Good News" of Jesus Christ. Through his television program Apostle Price aims to minister by precept and example, teaching the body of Christ to walk in victory and to adopt a lifestyle that is beyond reproach.+ More
Thy Kingdom Come
Host Dr. Lonnie Brown explores God's purpose of "Time" in our lives. Available On Demand Available On Demand+ More
Camp Harlow
Alex, a teenage bully, lashes out at classmates and makes their lives miserable. Can a chance encounter at a local Christian summer camp turn her life around and give her the wakeup call she so desperately needs?+ More
Gaither Gospel Hour
Bill and Gloria Gaither Gospel music fun with the hottest gospel music stars of yesterday and today. Former high school English teacher Bill Gaither and his wife Gloria preside over a gospel music empire. In the early 1990s, he began...+ More
Christ in Prophecy
To proclaim the soon return of Jesus and to relate Bible prophecy to current events.+ More
Jonathan Bernis: Jewish Voice
Explore the Jewish Roots of your Christian Faith, and learn how bible prophecy and today's world events surrounding Israel are connected to your life. Jonathan Bernis is a Jewish believer in Jesus who has been active in Messianic Jewish...+ More
The War Within
Michael Sinclair is a syndicated cartoonist whose dream of a perfect life is upended when tragic events transform his dream into a nightmare. The result is a war that wages within his soul which is personified by six members; Mind, Memory,...+ More
No Greater Love
Best friends from childhood, Jeff and Heather are married by age 22. After the birth of their only child, however, Heather falls into an uncontrollable depression and abandons husband and infant son. Now, ten years later, Jeff's world is...+ More
The Hiding Place
Corrie and Betsie ten Boom are middle-aged sisters working in their father's watchmaker shop in pre-WWII Holland. Their uneventful lives are disrupted with the coming of the Nazis. Suspected of hiding Jews & caught breaking rationing rules,...+ More
Gary Hoffman
To bring Jesus to a hurting and dying world. To educate and equip the saints on how to grow in their walk with God.+ More
Worship For Shut-Ins
Worship for Shut-Ins is produced by Lutheran Ministries Media. It is a service that includes choirs singing well known hymns, Scripture readings, and Pastor Messages that speak to the needs of the homebound and those searching for answers to life.+ More
Total Man Ministry
Bishop Nathaniel Wells brings his ministry of restoration, renewal and completeness into your homes each week.+ More
Smuggler's Ransom
Dedicated to her faith, Carmen is captured by communist forces while trying to smuggle Bibles into Romania in 1985. Carmen's father, a Soviet Nuclear Physicist, disillusioned with the system, has defected to the West. The Soviets are...+ More
The Appointment
Under the threat of interrogation, a frightened woman is forced to make a decision, with a young man's life hanging in the balance.+ More
The Invisible One
At age 24 Ian McCormack decided to travel the world. He was devoted to drink and women. He was also a convinced atheist who didn't need anyone. Or so he thought.+ More
No Lost Cause
Beth Ann Collins, a young agnostic woman, is bound to a wheelchair after a car crash leaves her paralyzed. Forced to live with her estranged Christian father, Billy, she is irate and confused. Will Beth allow her father and new acquaintance...+ More
Stand Strong
Stand Strong follows The Websters, a family that measures success by their possessions. After nearly losing a loved one in an accident, they are stripped of all they own and forced to move in with relatives. In their new positive, Christian...+ More
Navigate Your Destiny
How often does one lose sight of what is most important in life? Gaining recognition and status from friends, superiors and professional peers may become obstacles to recognizing what brings lasting happiness in our lives. A mother's...+ More
Soaring To New Heights
Magnificent photography highlights an insightful story about overcoming perceived limitations. An eagle, raised as a chicken for years, is taught to spread its wings and soar in the heavens its Creator meant for it to enjoy.+ More
Home Beyond the Sun
"Home Beyond the Sun" is the story of despair and hope, deceit and compassion, depression and renewal. It follows the adventures of a young Christian woman seeking to repay her mentor for his affection and his guidance.+ More
Missionary to Walker's Garage
Young Mark wants to be an automotive engineer, but his parents want him to join the clergy. This film illustrates the point of Romans 8:28 that "all things work together for good."+ More
A Greater Yes
The story of Amy Newhouse, who after climbing to Pampa High School's popularity chain by taking her volleyball team to the State championship and founding the school's first drugs, alcohol, and violence-free club, find herself now...+ More
Amy Carmichael: Mother to the Motherless
The true story of a brave missionary woman and her battle to rescue young girls from unspeakable evil.+ More
The Living Word
Tommy Combs teaches the Word of God using Hebrew Word Studios.+ More
Praise Band the Movie
A joyous celebration of life, community, and music, Praise Band is filled with stirring songs that glorify God. This film proves that perseverance pays off and that shaking up the status quo can be a blessing in disguise.+ More
Sue Thomas: Nothing But the Truth
Diagnosed as totally deaf at the age of 18 months, Sue Thomas nevertheless went on to a successful career in the FBI. Her exploits were dramatized in the popular TV series, "Sue Thomas F.B. Eye." As an international speaker, Sue has shared...+ More
In His Steps
When a homeless man interrupts the comfortable routine of First Church of Raymond, life will never be the same for the apathetic congregation. Convicted by the vagrant's words, Pastor Henry Maxwell, Rachel Winslow, Virginia Page, Alex Powers,...+ More


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This time last year, it was as if [artist id="501686″]Britney Spears[/artist] was walking around with a target on her back.
The embattled pop star was the subject of media ridicule following her performance at the 2007 Video Music Awards, and her personal travails were splashed across the pages of the nation's tabloids on an almost weekly basis. She'd just released an album that some had prematurely hailed as her comeback, Blackout, and while the LP was largely considered a commercial hit, to this day, it's yet to eclipse the 1 million-sold mark.
Fast-forward 10 months, and it's a whole new ball game. Spears is still in the spotlight, but rather than attack her, the media has been more sympathetic. Instead of delivering a shaky performance, Brit walked away a winner at the 2008 VMAs , taking home the Moonmen for Best Female Video, Best Pop Video and Video of the Year. She's the most searched topic on Yahoo , and on Sunday, more than 3.7 million viewers tuned in to catch her MTV documentary, "Britney: For the Record." On Tuesday (December 2), she appeared on ABC's "Good Morning America," the same day she released what they're calling her "true comeback" album, Circus.
These days, it seems like everything's coming up Britney. And if early sales estimates are to be believed, Circus will likely outsell Blackout, which opened at #2 with 289,700 sold, behind the Eagles' Long Road Out of Eden.
Roy Trakin, senior editor of Hits magazine, said that his sources inside the industry are predicting Circus will sell more than 300,000 units — and could even reach 400,000 — during its first week in stores, but admitted it could do even more.
"It looks like, at the very minimum, it will hit 300,000, but some people are saying it could do better than that," he said. "But this market, it's not a good market, obviously, and there have already been a couple of real disappointments coming out of the chute, with [artist id="1230523″]Kanye West[/artist] and [artist id="846″]Guns N' Roses[/artist] not performing to what they were supposed to perform even three weeks ago. I still think that's pretty good for her."
While 300,000 records might not sound like a lot for an artist as well-known as Spears, in this economic climate, it's tremendous. People are being more frugal with their cash, which could ultimately hurt sales. Then again, when Spears released Blackout, it dropped in early November — not early December, when people spend more time in stores.
Billboard senior correspondent Ed Christman said Spears' recent television appearances, the MTV special and several favorable reviews will likely help sales of the new album, even though sales are down 15 percent from last year. And while 300,000 sold is a modest number, he predicts Circus will sell more over time than Blackout has.
"The industry is telling me she'll do 300,000," he said. "That's from label sales guys, whose job it is to project sales. It's a big album, and there's a lot of goodwill toward her now. In the history of SoundScan, pop artists generally don't have big first weeks. The pop fan is more casual. They go out and get the album when they get the album. It's fans of either metal bands or rap acts who are frantic for the record — salivating — that run out the first day to get the record. So, there are plenty of big albums that have gone on to sell 6 million records that didn't sell 1 million the first week, and Britney falls into that pop category."
According to Trakin, this year's comeback feels more authentic than last year's supposed return.
"Certainly, it seems she's more prepared to come back," he said. "Given what went down on the documentary, I think there are still questions about her stability, her stamina and her desire, as well. Those are certainly issues that need to be dealt with. But there's still tremendous public interest in her. The media is pulling for her, and the critical reviews and word of mouth are certainly a lot better than last time. That will all help her sell records."
If Circus performs well, so will her upcoming tour , which kicks off in March with the [artist id="1841713″]Pussycat Dolls[/artist] as direct support. According to Gary Bongiovanni, editor in chief of Pollstar, the fact that Spears didn't tour in support of Breakdown also bodes well for ticket sales.
"My initial reaction [to Spears' tour announcement] was probably negative, but the more I've thought about it and watched things go on around here, I think this one might be a risk that ends up paying off," he said. "The initial buzz around the record seems to be pretty good, so this one might actually be a winner. It's going to be one of the first tours that goes out in the early part of the year, so it will be interesting to see how well it does."
While album sales aren't currently a strong indicator of how well a tour will do, he said that in Britney's case, A could lead to B.
"There used to be a much more direct correlation between album sales and ticket sales, but it can still be a very good indicator," he said. "If the record falls flat, that would be an indication that whatever audience you thought was there is not. If the record does well, the tour will do well."
Still, Bongiovanni continued, America is experiencing one of the most uncertain economic times in decades, "and how that's going to impact any given tour is always an open question. The thing Britney has going for her is that she's been off the scene for a while. No one has seen her recently, and that could help sell tickets."
Tell us what you thought of Britney's documentary over on the Newsroom blog, or upload a video to YouRHere.MTV.com. "Britney: For the Record" will be re-airing throughout the week and will be available in its entirety on demand on MTV.com beginning Wednesday at 8 p.m. ET.

subset: commoncrawl


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Michelle Kaufmann Launches New Zero Series Prefab Homes!
BY: Yuka Yoneda
Start Slideshow
- Michelle Kaufmann Zero SeriesIt's no secret that we're big fans of modular dwelling designer extraordinaire Michelle Kaufmann here at Inhabitat, so we're absolutely stoked to see that she's launched a brand new series of prefabricated homes! Called the Zero Series, the elegant line is made to be zero energy (hence the name) and is all about "designing big rather than building big." In addition to being able to generate as much energy as they consume, the bright, airy spaces filled with ample windows bring the outdoors in and squeeze out every last drop of potential that a build site itself has to offer.1
- Michelle Kaufmann Zero SeriesThe line consists of three new models, the Ridge0™, the Vista0™ and the Contours0™, which range in size between 422sf and 2643sf.2
- Michelle Kaufmann Zero SeriesThe Contours0™ and the Vista0™ have interior and exterior rooms designed to maximize natural ventilation and daylight through large windows, glass doors and skylights.3
- Michelle Kaufmann Zero SeriesThe Ridge0™ uses the Passivhaus principles of good insulation, southern orientation with shading, efficient windows and frames, an air-tight building envelope, energy star appliances and lighting, and passive preheating of fresh air to minimize demand for heating and cooling.4
- Michelle Kaufmann Zero SeriesAn interior shot of the homes showing how much light the large windows let inside.5
- Michelle Kaufmann Zero SeriesThe homes also incorporate solar power systems, rain catchment systems and gray water systems.6
- Michelle Kaufmann Zero SeriesThe Zero Series also incorporates 5 eco principles and green materials and systems and are designed to be LEED certified.7
- Michelle Kaufmann Zero SeriesAnd if you prefer, they can even be customized to obtain other green home certifications like Build it Green, NAHB Green Building Standard, or your local green rating program.8
- Michelle Kaufmann Zero SeriesThe new prefab homes are available exclusively through Studio 101 Designs and built by Blazer Industries.9
- Michelle Kaufmann Zero SeriesPrices for the homes begin at $66,500.10
- Michelle Kaufmann Zero SeriesThe Ridge0 makes good use of skylights to minimize artificial lighting during the day.11
- Michelle Kaufmann Zero SeriesThe houses maximize the potential of the sites they are built on and outdoor space.12


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Cabrini offers more than 35 undergraduate majors with focused tracks and concentrations, plus graduate programs in education, accounting, religion, science, and leadership.
Students also can design their own majors, add a minor or concentration, or double major. An ambitious few even complete triple majors at Cabrini.
In all areas, students learn in small classes taught by skilled faculty dedicated to helping them achieve their academic and career goals.
Students apply what they learn hands-on in the real world with internships, fieldwork, research, and other opportunities. Learning by doing is a hallmark of a Cabrini education.
Not sure what to major in? Don't worry. Many undergraduates come to Cabrini unsure of their major, or "undeclared."
The curriculum is designed to give new students time to explore courses that interest them and discuss options with their advisor. Students don't have to decide on a major until the end of their first year.
First-year students who are undeclared have the chance to live and study with a group of peers in the Academic and Career Exploration Living & Learning Community.
© 2012


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Competence and Confidence Partners in Policymaking (C2P2)
About C2P2
Modeled after Minnesota's Partners in Policymaking, Competence and Confidence: Partners in Policymaking (C2P2) is a leadership development training program designed for individuals with disabilities, parents of young children with disabilities and university graduate students. C2P2 provides up-to-date information, leadership training and skill building. National and local experts teach participants about the local, state and national issues that affect individuals with disabilities.
C2P2 participants make a commitment to attend multiple two-day training sessions during the course of a year. The program selects highly motivated people who represent different ethnic backgrounds and, who for the most part are not already involved in advocacy organizations.
The Institute on Disabilities currently offers three C2P2 programs, targeting different participant groups:
- C2P2 for Family Leadership for Inclusive Education in Non-Traditional Schools
- C2P2 for Emerging and Established Leaders
- C2P2 for Families of Children in Early Intervention
Funded by: The Pennsylvania Developmental Disabilities Council


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The Kentucky Department of Agriculture cited AT&T for two violations involving Rainbow weed killer after rain washed the herbicide from a substation in New Castle into a woman's garden there.
North Main Street resident Donna Feltner, the complainant, now wonders where residual herbicide from other AT&T substations around Henry County and the state may end up after heavy rains.
Copyright © 2016
The Henry County Local is your source for local news, sports, events, and information in Eminence, KY and the surrounding area.


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153 Turnpike Rd (Route 9)
Westborough, MA 01581
Phone: 508-336-9696
Monday-Friday: 9am-8pm
Saturday: 9am-6pm
Sunday: 10am-5pm
153 Turnpike Rd, Westborough, MA 01581, USA
April is National Adopt-A-Greyhound Month and what better time to welcome a beautiful, graceful, and gentle companion into your home? Meet volunteers and some great dogs from Greyhound Adventures and The Greyhound Project.
A total of ten Greyhound racing tracks have closed across the country since 2008 and 25 have closed since 2000. Two tracks recently closed in Massachusetts alone. An estimated 500 to 1,000 greyhounds have been displaced as a result of each closing.
There are thousands of these vibrant dogs being cared for by adoption groups as they wait to be adopted into permanent homes. The Greyhound Project is spreading their message of greyhound adoption awareness to ensure that 100% of these beautiful creatures will be able to find permanent loving homes. Please visit www.adopt-a-greyhound.org for more information.


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Final Facts From The Field.....
*The victory extended Tech's win streak at Jones Stadium to 11 games, the most consecutive wins at home since 1960. The last time the Raiders lost at home was in 1994 versus eventual-national champion Nebraska. Tech's next home game is scheduled for Oct. 19 against the Cornhuskers.
*Lethridge and Hanspard accounted for 546 of the Raiders' 624 yards of offense.
*Tech fullback Sammy Morris had 98 yards rushing on seven carries, a 14-yard-per-carry average. He also scored two touchdowns.
*Baylor starting quarterback Jeff Watson suffered a back injury early in the first half and left the game. Watson had completed four of nine passes for 37 yards. Backup Jermaine Alfred completed 14 of 27 passes for 249 yards and one touchdown in relief of Watson. Alfred also rushed for a score.
*Tech punter Jeremy Hernandez continued to put up big numbers, punting four times for a 53.3-yard average.
*One area the Raiders did not click in was penalties. Tech players were flagged 17 times for 147 yards and one Tech player was ejected for the game after an unsportsmanlike conduct penalty.
*Baylor's Kalief Muhammad, a multi-purpose player who plays both running back and wide receiver, was mostly held in check by the Raiders after scoring two touchdowns last week against Oregon State, one on a 100-yard kickoff return. He carried two times for 11 yards, had five catches for 37 yards, returned one kick for 11 yards and two punts for 21 yards, a total of 80 all-purpose yards.


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It's easy to let the chill of winter keep you inside.
I know this, because I'm a fan of warm weather, bare arms, shorts, sweet summer breezes against my skin, leaf-filled trees - but I digress, letting my fantasies interfere with my intentions.
Those intentions are to remind you (and me) that the outdoors in the wintertime has its own beauty, worth braving the cold air for. Not only that, getting outside during this chilly season of shorter days helps to fight the wintertime blues, granting the wanderer the healing powers of sunlight and exercise.
Though the obvious winter recreations are those sports that depend upon snow, like skiing and snowshoeing, it isn't necessary to wait for the snow, or drive to a resort, or even spend oodles of money on fancy equipment. Getting out can be as simple as taking a hike at a nearby park.
Before you venture out:
- Be prepared. Have maps and a means of communication should you need it. Carry water and food. Even though you're not sweating like you would be in the summer, your body still needs rehydrating.
- Use a service like Weather.com to know what the temperatures will be when you're out. If you're hiking in the mountains, remember that for every 1,000-foot increase in temperature, the temperature decreases about 3.5 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Since the idea is to improve your health, you'll want to make sure you're dressed for the weather! Dress in layers so you can remove or loosen top layers as you get moving and your body generates its own heat. For more tips on dressing for your outdoor exploration, visit The Active Woman Traveler's 5 Tips for Staying Warm in the Winter and view the attached video.
When you go:
- Look for the wonders that are unique to the wintertime. You know those birds that always hide in the leaves? There are fewer hiding places now! How about that waterfall that you enjoy seeing in the summer? It may be even more beautiful in the winter, with amazing ice crystals, mysterious color tones, and soft gurgling sounds beneath the frozen surface. Or the tree canopy that blocks the summer sky? Instead, you can see the sky, often a deeper blue in the winter, behind the silhouettes of millions of branches and twigs.
- If you've wandered far afield, be sure you're back before the sun goes down.
I'll never be a fan of winter, but when I try to make the best of it, it's not quite so bad. Get out and enjoy!


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The trip east on the Ohio Turnpike for the Cleveland State men's basketball team ended like most every other road trip this season for the Vikings, who fell to 10-12 on the year and 2-6 in Horizon League play after a 73-59 setback to host Youngstown State on Saturday afternoon at the Beeghley Center.
The Vikings, who once again had trouble with their offense, did get team highs with 19 points and nine rebounds from freshman guard Bryn Forbes, but saw an 18-0 run by the Penguins near end of the first half just too much to overcome.
After spending much of the opening half fighting back from an early deficit to take a 25-24 lead on a 3-pointer by Charlie Lee with 6:44 left, it was there that the Penguins ran away with only their third win in the last 12 meetings with Cleveland State.
The Penguin run included a pair of 3-pointers from Kamren Belin, who also had a traditional 3-point play along the way to push YSU out to a 42-25 lead. Belin had 15 of his game-high 24 points before the intermission while Damian Eargle had nine of his 14 points for the Penguins in the opening 20 minutes. Cleveland State stopped the bleeding with a basket by Forbes to leave the floor trailing 42-27.
The teams exchanged runs in the second half as Cleveland State moved from 17 down at 54-37 with a 13-2 run that included 3-pointers from Marlin Mason and Tim Kamczyc before Forbes cut the YSU lead to 56-50 with a 3-point play which were his final points of the afternoon.
The Penguins, 12-8 overall and 4-3 in the league with the win, then countered with their own 16-4 push that saw the Vikings limited to a 3-pointer from Kamczyc and a free throw from Devon Long.
Cleveland State, which failed to score 60 points for the fourth consecutive game and eighth time in the last 12 games, got 12 points from Lee, with 10 before the half and 10 points from Kamczyc, with all 10 in the second half.
Youngstown State had 17 from Kendrick Perry along with nine points and nine rebounds from D.J. Cole on the way to the Penguins' snapping a 3-game losing streak at home to the Vikings.
The Vikings are 10-2 when scoring 60 are more points but are 0-10 when held to less than 60 points. CSU's road record fell to 1-10 with the lone win coming Nov. 28 at Ball State.
Cleveland State has no mid-week game and returns to the road this Saturday, playing at Illinois-Chicago, which lost a 60-50 decision to the Vikings at the Wolstein Center back on Jan. 7.


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We've all gone on vacation and fallen in love with a place that's hard to leave. You promise yourself you'll come back and visit… But you really wish you never had to go back home.
Well, you don't. You can figure it out. I did….
For me the place was Buenos Aires, Argentina. I love its unique mix of European and Latin American cultures, the cafés in the sun-dappled shadow of French and Spanish colonial architecture. On any given day I can go to a French bakery and a Bolivian market in the same afternoon. In spring and summer I can sit in one of the many parks or botanical gardens, and there's something to do at any hour of the night…live music, theater and tango (I don't dance much, but I love to watch!).
I arrived on vacation and was seduced into staying. You see, I figured out how to hemisphere-hop for free. This way I get two summers a year plus the snowy New England Christmas I couldn't give up. I'm not a true expat. I'm a cheater.
At first I lived off savings, and then pieced together an income from freelance writing and editing. By earning in dollars and living on Argentine pesos my dream of living off writing (and working in my pajamas) started to come true. But writing enough to pay for trips back home wasn't easy.
So I devised a plan. I began to export fair-trade crafts from Argentina to the U.S. Suddenly every journey through the skies became a profit-yielding opportunity. I could support communities in Argentina, see my old friends and family twice a year, and find new friends and new travels.
I source fair trade crafts in three ways: buying from established non-profits, approaching artisans at local street fairs, and heading out to small towns and simply asking around for artisans and cooperatives.
When I want a break from Buenos Aires I book it out to the mountains, hiking to isolated Kolla villages in the northern province of Jujuy. Over a lantern-lit meal of hearty vegetable stew, spicy empanadas, freshly baked bread and goat's cheese, I arrange an order with an elderly couple for llama wool hats, scarves and shawls to be shipped by burro and bus to Buenos Aires.
Venturing out to find artisans in rural communities is fun, and I'm bringing the market to people who have less access to it. I try to choose unique crafts and carve out my own non-competitive niche. The most popular products are quirky hand-painted wooden animal masks made by the Chané tribe in northern Argentina—each jaguar, marmot, and parrot face has an original character and style.
I assess what's practical to carry in my luggage. Jewelry and textiles are the easiest to transport, while beautiful palo verde wood platters are heavier and occupy more space, but are still worth it.
It's all trial and error—you have to work out the kinks and make the best of things. I fell in love with a style of rustic black pottery from the Diaguita tribe in Tucumán. But not only was I charged an overweight fee for my bag, there were also heavy casualties. Making the most of it, I used the pottery shards and some sand for a creative display around my wares and shoppers flocked to my table.
I have to consider if I can sell for a fair price. I do a quick calculation in my head: one third—fair price for the artisan; one third—pays for my plane ticket; and one third—proceeds to Cultural Survival, the non-profit that organizes the bazaars where I sell my wares.
At customs, U.S. citizens are allowed to bring in up to $800 of merchandise without paying a duty. After that, it's 3% import duty. Whenever I source a new craft, I buy a small amount to take back with me and see how well it sells before committing to bulk orders. I also vary my inventory to cater to both budget-conscious shoppers and high spenders.
I market the crafts in three ways: directly to friends and at parties, at a shop by consignment, and at crafts bazaars. The holiday bazaars are cozy and festive, while the summer bazaars are held outdoors in destinations around New England, often near beautiful beaches.


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We're Hiring Interns and Volunteers!
Robeson Campus Center, Room 303
Come to an information session any day this week at 1:30, 3:00 or 5:30 to learn more and interview for an internship!
Rutgers University - Newark
Energy Service Corps meets every Monday, 5:20-6:20, in the 3rd Floor Student Lounge in the Robeson Campus Center.
Here in Newark we have a lot of old, urban buildings that are drafty and cost way too much to heat and cool. Families are already having to make tough choices about where to spend their money, and having to pay high energy bills just adds to this stress. There's also a huge gap between what's available and what people know is available. Out of all households qualified for state and federal assistance in upgrading their homes to be more energy efficient, less than 1% have even applied!
So that's where we come in - we'll connect people to the information and resources, and even provide some immediate relief through basic weatherization projects.
NJPIRG's Energy Service Corps was honored by Mayor Booker for their work in organizing "25 Days of Service." Read about it here!


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Day 6: Journey to Cuba's underwater Eden
Knee-deep in the seaMangroves provide protection for a variety of wildlife and are vital nurseries for juvenile fish.Photo by: Ian Shive, courtesy of The Nature Conservancy
JutiasMangrove islands in the Gardens are inhabited by jutias, a tree-living rodent endemic to Cuba.Photo by: Ken Marks
American crocodileThe American crocodile is slightly larger – and less fierce – than the rare Cuban crocodile found only in the Zapata Swamp and Isle of Youth.Photo by: Fausto De Nevi Herrera
IguanaIt's not uncommon to encounter native iguanas on island beaches, which are made of coral rubble rather than sand.Photo by: Ken Marks
By Rod Griffin
Exploring mangroves
Today, Phil Kramer, the director of The Nature Conservancy's Caribbean program, and I paddle a kayak to a small mangrove-fringed island in the Golfo de Ana Maria. Phil is the perfect guide; he knows the area and also happens to be a marine geologist and coral expert.
Straddling land and sea, mangroves occupy a zone of stifling heat, choking mud, and salt levels that would kill an ordinary plant. Yet mangroves swamps are among the most productive and complex ecosystems on Earth. They are the biological engines of the reef – and are important nurseries for a range of species, including grouper, sharks, snapper and lobster.
Photo by: Ian Shive, courtesy of The Nature Conservancy
They are also disappearing. The world has lost about one-fifth of its mangraove forests since 1980. They are sacrificed for salt pans, aquaculture ponds, roads, port facilities and farms.
"These mangroves are extremely healthy," Kramer notes we approach the island. "You can see that the black mangroves have stabilized the shoreline — and are building outward."
I've read that the world record for traveling 100 meters through a mangrove forest is 22 minutes. I can see why. It's incredibly arduous to make your way among the tangled prop roots.
As we move inland, we find gumbo limbo trees with 3-foot termite mounds alongside, poisonwood and cactuses. It's inhospitable terrain for humans — silted ponds comprise roughly a third of the real estate – but ideal habitat for crocodiles.
And that's not all. Our arrival causes a night heron, one of the island's myriad inhabitants, to take flight. On one stretch of beach, we see iguanas and "jutias" (endemic tree-living rodents) that have no fear of humans. (Elsewhere in Cuba, they'd likely end up in a stew.) We also watch as a Wilson's plover feigns injury, fluttering its wings, to distract an interested iguana from its eggs.
Living on the edge
Cuba has the most extensive mangroves in the Caribbean, covering half of its southern coast. They act as carbon sinks and buffers against coastal pollution. It's no wonder reefs off Cuba's south coast are so pristine.
But even here the mangroves are under threat. According to one of our guides, the Soviets planned to build a golf course on an island in the Gardens back in the 1970s. The project was never completed, but a cracked, overgrown airstrip remains, a monument to the failed dream of some nameless Russian golf lover.
Photo by: Rod Griffin
To help avoid that sort of debacle, EDF worked with Cuban experts to write a Spanish-language coastal policy handbook. As the economy opens up and tourism grows, the handbook is being used to guide Cuban planners and policymakers on how to avoid damaging mangroves, wetlands and other sensitive environments.
By the time we return to the boat, it's 6:30 pm. While we were off exploring, the vessel's crew ventured to Jucaro, a tiny fishing village on Cuba's south coast. They returned with our supper – mutton snapper procured from a local fisherman in exchange for three Dr. Peppers and a T-shirt. In case you are wondering, Cubans are an enterprising lot.
As evening falls, we marvel at the lack of debris — the stray fishing nets and plastic trash that invariably wash up on even the most remote shorelines. "It's just remarkable," Kramer says. "That's Cuba for you."
Tomorrow we'll head back underwater.
Continue the journeyDay 7: Invasion of the lionfish
The beautiful but deadly lionfish – a non-native species – could disrupt the delicate balance of Cuba's reefs »
This 10-day expedition was made possible by the generosity of the Waitt Foundation.


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I considered this week to be my first real week back into my groove post Philadelphia Marathon. I cross trained a couple days last week but nothing spectacular. I did what I felt like and I was perfectly okay with not feeling like doing much.
This week was a whole new ball game. I'm not exactly sure what has gotten into me but I LOVE it and I hope it doesn't go away anytime soon. I think it has a lot to do with having a rough time at the marathon.
I find that while training for a race (a marathon in particular) I fall into the habit of "just running". Part of me is scared of doing too much and having it negatively impact my running but in reality, not doing other things probably does more bad than good. The other part of me is probably just lazy. This is one of the many things that I'm aiming to change about the way I train next year. Starting now. I'm easing myself back into running and mileage and incorporating more cross training. I have even developed (with A LOT of help from the bf) a strength training routine that I love. I can't wait to keep improving and get stronger.
This week I was all about getting outside my comfort zone and doing whatever made me happy. Here's a look at how my week went.
3 miles EZ
Arc Trainer 40:00
Stationary bike 20:00
Strength (Back & Biceps)
seated row 3x8x40
shoulder shrugs (front and side) 3x8x15
bicep curl 3x8x10
bicep curl maching 3x8x20
Run 3.3 miles. Dropped off my car for new tires, ran home. Ran back to pick it up. No watch, just running! I only know the distance because I've done it once before.
Arc Trainer 30:00
Strength (Legs & Shoulders)
adductor machine 3x8x50
abductor machine 3x8x70
hamstring curls
glute extensions 3x8x20
dumbbell shoulder press 3x8x15
machine shoulder press 3x8x25
leg press 3x8x50
squats 3x10
Run 1 mile after all the strength training... because I FELT LIKE IT!!
Run 6 miles - impromptu progressive tempo run. I went out for 3-4 easy miles and changed my mind after the first mile. It felt SO good. I felt like I found my fast again. I think I must have left it in the trails somewhere when I was training for Philly. I'm especially impressed given Thursday's leg work.
For split/mile 5 I alternated 0.10 miles sprinting with running. It was the epitome of having fun while kicking my ass. Love.
Strength (Chest & Triceps)
bench press 1x8x45, 1x8x50, 1x8x55
skull crushers 3x8x15bar
incline dumbbell chest press 3x8x15
chest fly 1x8x40, 1x8x45, 1x8x50
tricep extension machine 1x8x20, 1x8x25, 1x8x30
Run 8 miles - I went out on my usual path with the intention of just running to my heart's content. I didn't have any time, pace, or distance goals. I brought my handheld and just went running. It was beautiful and I could not have asked for a better run.
21 miles
strength training x 3
90 minutes cross training
feeling more motivated than ever. Better. Faster. Stronger.
Goals for next week:
run 4 days 20-25 miles
long run 8-10 miles
spin class x 1... maybe get out on my bike if the weather holds up
strength x 3
back & biceps
chest & triceps
legs & shoulders
attempt a pull-up
start core work
more protein
It feels good to not be training for anything in particular. I'm just out there doing what feels good. I've got my eyes on a late winter 5k and I'm throwing a bunch of big goals around my head for next year so stay tuned. Happy running.


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GMP fined more over Lowell wind equipment transportAP File Photo
A truck hauls part of a wind tower in Lowell in August. Vermont utility regulators have fined Green Mountain Power $30,000 stemming from five violations of its permit to ship turbine parts to an industrial wind-power project last year.
LOWELL Vermonts largest electric utility has been fined $30,000 by state utility regulators for violating the permit that governed the delivery by road of turbine parts used in the construction of the Lowell Mountain wind project.
Green Mountain Power and the Public Service Department, which represents the state in utility issues, had agreed upon a fine of $7,500 for the violations that took place last summer when the turbine parts were delivered without giving proper notice to the communities through which the trucks carrying the parts passed.
But the utility-regulating Public Service Board determined the fine wasnt enough. The board increased the fine to $30,000.
We have determined that a higher penalty is warranted for violating the transportation plan, said the boards order.
GMP spokeswoman Dorothy Schnure said Thursday that no property was harmed during the violations. And a New Hampshire company hauled wind turbine parts along the same route last summer without any requirements to warn Vermont officials.
Were really disappointed that the Public Service Board chose this level of fine for an administrative oversight, Schnure said. We had a permit. We used the route for five days due to an administrative error on our part before we had completed all technical notifications and actions.
Most of the turbine parts used in the Lowell Mountain project were shipped from southern Vermont to Lowell and from Island Ponds rail yards to Lowell, all without violations. But the utility made a handful of shipments from northern New York to Lowell.
GMP asked for and received an expedited permit to use the northern route, but the utility did not get a waiver for a 30- to 60-day warning period for the towns through which the parts would be moved.
The 21-turbine Lowell Mountain project started generating electricity late last year.MORE IN Vermont NewsBARRE Local history met modern art Saturday night during the fifth annual RockFire festival. Full StoryMONTPELIER Thousands of people are continuing to arrive in the Vermont town of Mount Tabor for... Full StoryMONTPELIER Gubernatorial candidate Bruce Lisman is challenging his rival for the Republican... Full Story
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Oh holiday season...
Thursday, December 29, 2011
I thought I'd blog a quick note on what's been going on with me over the last couple of weeks and whatever progress has been made on the end of year goals.
The first couple of weeks after I set my goals, things went very well. I tracked my food every day, and managed to stay within range. I also kept to my exercise goal of 3 hours a week. I really enjoyed the focus on fitness at that time, and I think my body is thanking me for it too! I love the fact that I reversed a common trend - instead of going into an end of the year slump, I became a little more energized. I think that the end of the year goals may end up being a jump start for the next year.
However after the first couple of weeks, I left town...I stopped tracking my food...I stopped weighing in...I stopped going to the gym. Honestly, I think I needed a break from being so rigid about tracking, and I let myself indulge a little bit.
Not to fear, the backslide isn't a total one. Here are the good things I have been doing this break:
1. Going to the grocery store with family and menu planning. I am eating out significantly less this trip.
2. Taking neighborhood walks a couple times a week instead of going to the gym. My sister and I walked circuits in the neighborhood that would last from 45 minutes to an hour. The weather here is perfect, and there is enough sunshine and great scenery here that there is no excuse not to walk! The neighborhood is perfectly walkable, which is something I have been taking advantage of.
3. I have been watching my portions pretty vigilantly when I do eat out.
Using the tracker, and keeping tabs on my exercise minutes does keep me honest, and it is shocking how many calories are in things....tracking calories is definitely a habit I need to consistently follow for now, until I have a better understanding of the nutrition content of foods, and where I need to be. Periodically checking now makes it pretty clear why it is so easy to gain...and so hard to maintain.
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You got me with the last paragraph. I really need to be counting calories too because keeping a mental estimated tally absolutely does not work for me. I'm proud of the progress you've made so far. Keep it up!
1645 days ago
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Chocolate, rose, and champagne treatments are on the spa menu at The Umstead Spa in Cary, N.C. this February.
"Champagne, roses and chocolate have helped many a love affair blossom," remarked Umstead Spa Director Carolyn Doe. "and what better way to celebrate the month of love than with a relaxing spa treatment at The Umstead Spa infused with these "elements of romance?"
Spa-goers can indulge in facials and Swedish massages using champagne and rose treatments rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, which are all excellent healing properties for moisturizing dry winter skin.
Chocolate lovers can enjoy a chocolate Swedish massage and a chocolate luxury pedicure.
"Chocolate has over 300 different ingredients that can enhance overall health and wellness," stated Doe. "The caffeine in chocolate has a slimming effect while its magnesium, potassium and calcium help calm and reduce stress."
February Spa Specials at The Umstead Hotel and Spa
· Champagne and Rose Facial (50 min. / $120)
· Champagne and Rose Swedish Massage (50 min. / $120)
· Chocolate Swedish Massage (50 min. / $120)
· Chocolate Luxury Pedicure (75 min. / $85)
Chocolate, roses, champagne, and spa gift certificates will certainly delight your Valentine. The treatments will be offered through Feb. 28, 2014.
For an inside look at the Umstead Hotel and Spa, visit HinesSightBlog.


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Larry Rayfield Wright
Position: T-TE
Height: 6-6 Weight: 255 lbs.
Born: August 23, 1945 in Griffin, GA
High School: Fairmont
College: Fort Valley St.
Drafted by the Dallas Cowboys in the 7th round (182nd overall) of the 1967 NFL Draft.
Weighted Career AV (100-95-...): 82 (318th overall since 1950)
6-time Pro Bowler & 3-time First-Team All-Pro (fine print)
Inducted into Hall of Fame in 2006, finalist in 2004
Like this page? Sponsor it for $10. Your message will replace this ad.
Output includes all games from 1920 to 2015.


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Summer Classes
Summer classes here at the University of Kansas are a great option for students who wish to ensure their own timely graduation to get those last few required courses out of the way. By taking summer classes, students are able to graduate faster, catch up to speed, or merely get a few of those pesky classes out of the way without taking up valuable time during the normal Fall and Spring semesters.
Enrollment in summer classes begins the first Friday after Spring Break ends for continuing students.College of Liberal Arts and Science students are allowed to take a maximum of 10 credit hours for the summer semester, although it is possible to petition for permission to take 12 credit hours.
Enrollment Guide
The summer enrollment guide is avaliable here.


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A look at the Franciscan hospital Pope Francis will visit during his trip to Rio de Janeiro for World Youth Day.
Filed under: CNS, Latin America, papal trip, WYD | Comments Off on Video: Rio hospital ready for pope
A look at the Franciscan hospital Pope Francis will visit during his trip to Rio de Janeiro for World Youth Day.
Filed under: CNS, Latin America, papal trip, WYD | Comments Off on Video: Rio hospital ready for pope
Catholics in Rio de Janeiro await Pope Francis's visit for World Youth Day this month and examine the legacy of Blessed John Paul II's visit to a slum.
Filed under: CNS, Latin America, papal trip, WYD | Comments Off on Video: Brazilians eager for pope's visit
VATICAN CITY — What a difference a year makes.
When the Vatican sponsored a meeting in April 2012 to review what went right and wrong in Madrid at World Youth Day 2011, the purpose was to ensure a smoother experience for the young people who were to have joined Pope Benedict XVI in Rio de Janeiro.
Rio's gearing up. Young pilgrims from around the world are on the move. But it's Pope Francis who is preparing to fly down to Brazil to join them.
The popes have changed. The Rio site for the vigil and closing Mass are much bigger than the space in Madrid was. (So many unregistered young people were allowed into the area in Madrid, that thousands of those who were registered were shut out.) Some 7,000 young pilgrims from the United States have registered to attend WYD Rio.
Even though we did this video last year, it shows the kind of planning that went into the Rio event. And the reference to encountering the reality of poverty in the developing world is something to keep in mind when Pope Francis arrives next week. He's likely to challenge the young people — and the rest of us — to look at how our lifestyles and political choices impact the poor, but also to look at what we can learn from them.
Filed under: CNS, Vatican, WYD | 1 Comment »
VATICAN CITY — The U.S. Servant Sister who masterminded the defense of the World Youth Day website from a major cyberattack last summer has provided more details.
As noted Tuesday, news reports re-visited the attempt to hack the WYD Madrid site after the computer security company Imperva released a report, "Anatomy of an Anonymous Attack," outlining what the company said it has learned about the hacking activities of the group that calls itself "Anonymous." The report didn't mention World Youth Day or the Vatican, but The New York Times reported that it confirmed "the Vatican" or, more accurately, World Youth Day, was the target.
Now there may be questions about that.
Servant Sister Kristen Gardner, who handled the massive computer operation for last August's celebration of World Youth Day, explained in an email what happened. She said she thinks the news reports have gotten some information confused.
"I highly doubt that the Imperva report is about the WYD website," she wrote.
"Yes, we were aware of the attack. In July we received several threats from Anonymous via YouTube videos. We prepared all the necessary infrastructure to secure the website, removing all possible security holes. During the week of WYD, which is when the DDoS (distributed denial-of-service) attack took place, we were also aware of it, since the website at times was very slow and at other times could not be reached at all. The moments when the site was completely down were usually periods of about 10 minutes maximum."
Sister Kristen said, "We were able to block the IPs (internet protocols) from which the attack was coming. The day with the most attacks was Thursday, August 18th," the day Pope Benedict XVI arrived in Madrid.
"Imperva was not hired by WYD, nor did they do anything for us," she said.
"We were prepared for the attacks," she said, and especially in the last month before WYD kicked off she and her staff "continued to add extra protections. Thanks to that the hackers were only able to use DDoS tactics and not others. It would have been much worse if they had been able to enter the website and put their own content on it."
While the cyberattack was not completely successful or destructive, it did create massive headaches.
"The security in the last week made it much, much more difficult to update the website. This was especially so due to the fact that we had a team of 20 volunteers working on the site and we had to daily inform them of the new security measures and the new processes (which took time to be learned) to be followed to update the website.," she said.
"However, it was worth the work and effort," Sister Kristen said.
Filed under: CNS, WYD | Comments Off on Further details on the cyberdefense of the WYD website
You may have heard that the new World Youth Day logo was released last night in Rio de Janiero, where the next big international youth festival will be held next year. Here's a look at one version of the new logo:
And that prompted the social media desk at the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops to ask via Twitter what people think of it:
Some replies:
@USCCB @CatholicNewsSvc No; also disappointed & frustrated that the greatest historical, institutional art patron ran a crowdsourced contest
— William G Price III (@williamPriceIII) February 8, 2012
YES! RT @USCCB Do you like the new World Youth Day logo? @CatholicNewsSvc WYD officials in Brazil unveil logo for 2013
— Sr. Terry Rickard (@SrTerryRickard) February 8, 2012
YEEESS "@USCCB: Do you like the new World Youth Day logo @CatholicNewsSvc WYD officials in Brazil unveil logo for 2013 bit.ly/AodkPk"
— LisandroAcosta (@LisandroAcostaS) February 8, 2012
@USCCB @catholicnewssvc love it. Archbishop Sheen is smiling!
— Jim Steele (@Macsbampa) February 8, 2012
RT @CatholicNewsSvc: World Youth Day officials in Brazil unveil winning logo for 2013 bit.ly/AodkPk #CNSstory ~ Beauty!
— Mike Roach (@ihackmore) February 8, 2012
@USCCB,@CatholicNewsSvc WYD officials in Brazil unveil logo for 2013 bit.ly/AodkPkLove the colors & the outstretching of His arms!
— Paige Dowler (@PaigeDowler) February 8, 2012
What about you? Add your thoughts in the comments below.
Filed under: CNS, WYD | 3 Comments »
By Sara Angle
One in a series
MADRID — While memories and new friends from across the world will remain as important reminders of pilgrims' experiences in Madrid, tangible souvenirs were also flying off the shelves at the city's retailers.
Official merchandise outposts were constantly crowded with pilgrims picking up things like T-Shirts, key chains, coffee mugs, hats, flags, bracelets, scarves, pins and books. Likewise, the souvenir shops were overflowing as WYD attendees rummaged through postcards, magnets, Spanish fans, Spanish flag paraphernalia, castanets and bullfight paraphernalia.
For myself, I bought an official "JMJ" (WYD) scarf and bracelet to add to my collection of bracelets from places I've travelled to. The scarf also doubled as a blanket on my chilly flight home from Madrid! I couldn't resist getting a WYD coffee mug for my dad, (sorry to ruin the surprise, dad!) I also bought some traditional Spanish candies at the supermarket, to share with friends and family.
The tradition of trading things at WYD continued in Madrid, so many pilgrims are going home with an assortment of pins, bracelets, flags and other small trinkets from the week. The best souvenir, though, is the gift of faith that each pilgrim took home.
Sara Angle, 21, is a senior at Villanova University and has written for CNS from Rome and Washington. She enjoys traveling and soaking up the culture of her surroundings, be it through food, fashion or faith, and looks forward to covering WYD for CNS — from the big events to the off-beat adventures. Sara loves reading and writing (but not arithmetic) and dancing like no one is watching. You can also follow her on Twitter @CatholicNewsSvc. She'll be using the hashtag #SaraInMadrid.
Filed under: CNS, WYD, WYD blog | 1 Comment »
MADRID — Pope Benedict XVI's trip to Spain did focus on young people, including young religious women, but it wasn't an exclusive focus.
Yesterday afternoon Pope Benedict met briefly with Cistercian Sister Teresita, who just turned 104. But what is even more interesting, she entered the Cistercian cloister on the very day Joseph Ratzinger, the pope, was born: April 16, 1927. With the exception of a few hours during Spain's Civil War in the 1930s, Sister Teresita has spent the last 84 years inside the convent at Buenafuente del Sistal.
Jesuit Father Federico Lombardi, Vatican spokesman, told reporters that also present at the meeting was a younger consecrated woman, a sister of the Sacred Heart, who retired back to Spain after working with then-Cardinal Ratzinger at the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith. He did not give her name.
On another note, Father Lombardi also spoke a bit about what happened last night, during the storm that hit Cuatro Vientos airfield just after the pope arrived.
He said the pope "was very decisive" about remaining with the young people and leading them in Eucharistic adoration even when the sound system failed. Father Lombardi said Msgr. Guido Marini, papal master of ceremonies, went to the pope several times and suggested that the evening be cut short. The pope decided not to read the bulk of the speech he prepared, but he said, "No," to the idea of leaving.
While the pope was waiting for the worst of the storm to pass and for the sound system to come back on, firefighters lowered a big screen on the altar platform because it was a danger in the wind, Father Lombardi said. But other than that, he said, the pope was safe the whole time.
Father Lombardi also asked people to read the full text of the speech the pope had prepared and "take it as if it were delivered," especially because the vigil was the World Youth Day appointment where the pope planned to speak about the importance of the vocation of marriage.
Here is the Vatican translation of that section of the prepared text:
During this prayer vigil, I urge you to ask God to help you find your vocation in society and in the Church, and to persevere in that vocation with joy and fidelity. It is a good thing to open our hearts to Christ's call and to follow with courage and generosity the path he maps out for us.
The Lord calls many people to marriage, in which a man and a woman, in becoming one flesh (cf. Gen 2:24), find fulfillment in a profound life of communion. It is a prospect that is both bright and demanding. It is a project for true love which is daily renewed and deepened by sharing joys and sorrows, one marked by complete self-giving. For this reason, to acknowledge the beauty and goodness of marriage is to realize that only a setting of fidelity and indissolubility, along with openness to God's gift of life, is adequate to the grandeur and dignity of marital love.
Christ calls others to follow him more closely in the priesthood or in consecrated life. It is hard to put into words the happiness you feel when you know that Jesus seeks you, trusts in you, and with his unmistakable voice also says to you: "Follow me!" (cf. Mk 2:14).
Dear young people, if you wish to discover and to live faithfully the form of life to which the Lord is calling each of you, you must remain in his love as his friends. And how do we preserve friendship except through frequent contact, conversation, being together in good times and bad? Saint Teresa of Jesus used to say that prayer is just such "friendly contact, often spending time alone with the one who we know loves us" (cf. Autobiography, 8).
Filed under: CNS, papal trip, WYD | 2 Comments »


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Terry Crews: 'I Started Acting Because I Was Broke'
The Brooklyn Nine-Nine star and former Western Michigan University football star reveals how the movie White Chicks changed his career.
"Keenen Ivory Wayans created so many stars, from Jennifer Lopez to Jamie Foxx, his whole family. He was telling me, 'Do what you do, just go,' and I had never been in that position." says Crews. "I'm actually getting goose bumps just thinking about it."


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RUMS Executive
The RUMS Executive Committee
Medical, Pharmacy & Health Students' Officer (MPHSO) – Kiran Dhanjal
Dear Freshers,
You are now not only part of a prestigious medical institution with global recognition and commitment to excellence, but also part of a diverse and exciting community of brilliant students. UCL provides you with the best quality of medical education as well as support to make the most of your time here and make lifelong friends and memories.
The RUMS executive is a student elective who represents the students and voices their concerns, ensuring you have a smooth university life.
I look forward to meeting you all and seeing you get involved, maximising your time at UCL.
Interim President – Alex Fleming-Nouri
As I'm sure you're all aware, RUMS is a historic medical school with a great reputation, and it produces great doctors. But equally importantly, it is a fantastic environment to spend six years of your life, and our aim is to ensure that everybody here has a fantastic time. The RUMS team have put together an excellent programme of events for Welcome Fortnight, and we look forward to meeting all of the Freshers!
Vice President Sports & Societies – Alex Maidwell-Smith
RUMS is the medical student body that you will be part of for the next six years. With over 650 active members, the sports clubs and societies are its lifeblood. From a comedy revue to rugby to squash; there is something for everyone – you would be mad to miss out!
RUMS Sport is thriving with teams competing across the South of England at very high levels. Importantly, RUMS teams frequently outperform their UCLU counterparts – much to their embarrassment! But RUMS Sport is about so much more than competing at a high level. We actively encourage new members who want to try out a sport for the first time. Furthermore, the RUMS Sport socials are legendary – sports night will quickly become the highlight of your week!
Those of you performing at high levels in sport, music and drama may be interested in applying for the RUMS Sports and Societies Scholarship, a substantial financial award donated by the consultants' commit- tee at the Royal Free Hospital. Details about how to apply will be released soon!
Keep up to date with all RUMS Sports and Societies news by following @RUMSsport on Twitter or by joining 'RUMS Sport' on Facebook. Alternatively, if you have any questions please email me at firstname.lastname@example.com.
Vice-President Events – Katie Chapple
It is now my job to make sure that you learn not only how to solve the world's problems in a ten-minute GP appointment, but also to have some fun. There are a wide variety of events scheduled throughout the year that everyone can get involved with, no matter what you enjoy. They are the perfect excuse to dress up, let off some steam and get away from the library. But for the moment, get excited for Welcome Fortnight and all the friends and memories you will make (or not…) as we set you up for the best six years of your life.
Vice President Welfare – Becki Clarke
Hi, I'm Rebecca, I'm your welfare representative for this year and will be here to deal with any issues that may arise where students need representing to the university. Along with my welfare team, we will also be putting on events through the year to help make university life as simple as possible.
Vice-President Operations & Finance – Stef Koutsouris
This year I will be working alongside the President and the rest of the team to keep RUMS moving forward. As Vice President of Operations and Finance, I will be collaborating with Katie and Alex to help plan traditional RUMS events that will make Freshers' first year one to remember! Also, I will be monitoring RUMS finances to ensure that any events we run are as affordable as possible. As a team, we are all very keen to increase Freshers' participation within RUMS and we also welcome you all to get in touch with us if you have any issues or concerns. RUMS is your union and we hope that by gauging your opinions we can help further develop RUMS – so feel free to contact us! I am certain that you will have an incredible time at UCL. All of us on the committee hope that every Fresher has a (un)forgettable Welcome Fortnight.