text:
In part 3, we had a look at several bug fixes that helped us get some interesting Linux applications working. However, we had a few bugs remaining that broke even more interesting binaries such as the Java Development Kit (JDK) or RealPlayer. In this part, we'll focus on the bug fixes that are needed in order to get a working Java Virtual Machine (JVM) for PowerPC-based ports of NetBSD. Surprisingly, most of the bugs we encountered here were located in machine-independent code, and they did not caused any known problem on alpha, i386, and m68k Linux emulations.
At first, the Java Virtual Machine for Linux seemed like a very interesting binary to run on the PowerPC, but the Linux compatibility was not accurate enough to get it working. We tried the Blackdown team's JDK, and when invoking the JVM, it hung. This was caused by the JVM native thread model, which makes use of Linux Real Time signals. We have not had a look at RT signal emulation yet, and there were obviously bugs in it. Fortunately, the JVM provides an alternative threading model, enabled by the
-green flag -- the Green Threads.
Green Threads do not make use of RT signals so they are more likely to run under emulation. But a simple test quickly exhibits a new problem:
$ java -green -version
java: ../../../../../src/solaris/hpi/green_threads/src/dl-malloc.c:1636:
malloc_extend_top: Assertion '((size_t)((char*)(((mbinptr)(&(av_[2 *
(0)])))->fd) + top_size) & (pagesz - 1)) == 0' failed.
Abort (core dumped)
Tracing the process with
ktrace(1), we can see that this error is triggered just after a set of
brk() calls. The
brk() system call is used by Unix processes to increase the size of the heap. Upon a
brk() call, the kernel maps new pages of memory on the top of the processes' heap. Then the kernel returns the new heap top address to the process. This address is called the break value.
brk() syntax is used to set the break value at an absolute address. When called with a null value,
brk() will return the current break value. There is also an
sbrk() library call, which is used to move the break value using a relative offset. The
sbrk() syntax is implemented as two
brk() calls. The first call is made with a null value, to get the current break address, and the second call is made to set the break at the current value augmented by the offset. For more information, please have a look at the
brk(2) man page.
Debugging the
brk() problem in the JVM without a look to the sources could have been tricky, but thanks to Kevin Hendricks from the Blackdown team, it was possible to work on a test program that reproduced the problem.
The failure was caused by alignment issues: The JVM wants the break value to be aligned on a page boundary. It therefore makes two
sbrk calls: one to allocate some space and get the resulting break value, and the second to adjust the break value so that it ends up on a page boundary. The final value is then tested for page alignement, and a non-alignment triggers the assertion we saw. When tracing the JVM calls to
brk() while running natively on a Linux system, we get this:
brk(0) = 0x100109d8
brk(0x100109f9) = 0x100109f9
brk(0) = 0x100109f9
brk(0x20021000) = 0x20021000
Each couple of
brk() is the result of a
sbrk() library call. And here is the result when running the JVM in emulation on NetBSD:
brk(0) = 0x10011000
brk(0x10011021) = 0x10011021
brk(0) = 0x10012000
brk(0x12012fdf) = 0x12012fdf
The difference is obvious: NetBSD ended up with a non-aligned break value, and this is what led us to the assertion failure. The question is why did NetBSD get a non-aligned break value, and the answer is that NetBSD just returned the value requested by the calling process, here
Previously in this series
Linux Compatibility on BSD for the PPC Platform -- The Linux compatibility layer allows BSD to run Linux binary applications. Emmanuel Dreyfus explains how he implemented this on NetBSD for the PowerPC.
Linux Compatibility on BSD for the PPC Platform: Part 2 -- Emmanuel Dreyfus takes a look at how to prevent dynamic Linux binary compatibility problems on the NetBSD/PowerPC platform.
Linux Compatibility on BSD for the PPC Platform: Part 3 -- Signals are the interactions between the kernel and the user program -- a program can't run without them. Emmanuel Dreyfus explains how to make your signals Linux-compatible.
In fact, the problem is that between the second
brk() call and the third
brk() call, the break value presented by the NetBSD kernel to the user process has changed. And the JVM uses the return value of the second
brk() call to compute the offset needed to page align the break value. Here, with a return value of
0x10011021, the JVM knows that a
0xfdf adjustment is needed in order to reach a page-aligned address. The JVM then calls
sbrk() with a
0xfdf offset. Unfortunately, the actual break value is now
0x12012000. Adding
0xfdf to it leads us to
0x12012fdf, and this address is not page aligned.
The explanation of this break value inconsistency is that NetBSD always sets the break value to a page-aligned address. On a
brk() system call with a non-aligned address, it returns the requested value to the user process while the real break value is set to a page-aligned adress. This is why on the next
brk() call, the break value read is not at the same address. The idea behind this behavior is that you only have to call
brk() once to get a page-aligned break value. Linux, on the other hand, can set the break value to a non-page-aligned address, and you need to call
brk() at least two times to get a page-aligned break.
Brk() emulation can be fixed by just keeping track of Linux processes' idea of break values. The kernel keeps setting the break values on page-aligned addresses while returning the requested address to the user process. This address may not be page aligned. The fix is to keep track of this returned value, and return it as the break address on the next
brk() call.
We just have to find a place where to store the process idea of the break value. It fits nicely in the
struct linux_emuldata (defined in
sys/compat/linux/common/linux_emuldata.h), which is referenced by the
*p_emuldata member of Linux processes'
struct process (defined in
sys/sys/proc.h). The new field of
struct linux_emuldata we introduce to keep track of the process idea of the break value is called
With this fix to the way Linux
brk() is emulated, we are able to get minimal support for the Java Virtual Machine. A simple program such as a "Hello world" was working:
/* Hello.java -- A simple test for the JVM */
public class Hello {
static public void main (String[] args) {
Working on Java tests, new problems apeared. The most obvious was that it was impossible to pass any test featuring a native program launch from a Java program. In fact, the native program was launched, but the Java program was not notified of its child's death. This problem was not Java specific, but it has only been possible to reproduce it with a Java program.
// exec_test.java -- run a native program
import java.lang.*;
import java.io.*;
class exec_test
static Process pid;
static String cmdstring = "/bin/ps";
public static boolean execIt(String argv, String pname)
try {
System.out.println(" Will call "+pname);
pid = Runtime.getRuntime().exec(argv);
} catch (IOException e) {
System.out.println("Failed to execute "+pname);
return false;
System.out.println("Waiting for "+pname+" to die");
catch(InterruptedException e){return false;}
System.out.println("end of "+pname);
return true;
public static void main(String args[])
System.out.println("In exec_test");
execIt(cmdstring,"Testing /bin/ps");
The program basically launches
/bin/ps and waits for its death. Sometimes it works; sometimes it fails. Success is somewhat related to the load average, but it is not completely related. It was only possible to see the bug effect on a particular race condition between different signals. This made the bug extremely difficult to spot.
Hendricks was finally able to find what was wrong by using the logging feature of the JDK. This is done by executing the Java program with the
java_g syntax. Note that this feature has been disabled in JDK-1.3.0. We used JDK-1.1.8 for the tests.
java_g -green -l6 exec_test, we got a lot of output, including a line complaining about an unexpected signal 20, where we expected a
SIGCHLD. Having a quick look to NetBSD's
sys/sys/signal.h shows that signal 20 is NetBSD's
SIGCHLD. In Linux,
SIGCHLD is signal 17. The trace also complained about a bad signal 23 instead of a
SIGIO. For NetBSD, signal 23 is
SIGIO, and for Linux, it's signal 29.
Obviously, the signal numbers are not being correctly translated between NetBSD and Linux. The first idea I tried was to check carefully the
native_to_linux_sig[] array in
sys/compat/linux/common/linux_signal.c in case signal numbers were mixed. This was not the case.
The next step is to check the
linux_sendsig() function in
sys/compat/linux/arch/powerpc/linux_machdep.c, which is responsible for sending signals to Linux processes. This function takes a
sig parameter, which is the signal number. This
sig parameter is used twice in the
linux_sendsig() function.
First, when building the Linux
struct sigcontext on the processes' stack, this structure has a field to hold the signal number. The signal number is copied here with the appropriate translation:
* Prepare a sigcontext for later.
sc.lsignal = (int)native_to_linux_sig[sig];
sc.lhandler = (unsigned long)catcher;
native_to_linux_old_sigset(mask, &sc.lmask);
sc.lregs = (struct linux_pt_regs*)fp;
Second, when setting up the trap frame prior transfering control to the signal trampoline, the appropriate translation was missing :
* Set the registers according to how the Linux
* process expects them
tf->fixreg[1] = (int)fp;
tf->lr = (int)catcher;
tf->fixreg[3] = (int)sig;
tf->fixreg[4] = (int)&fp->lgp_regs;
tf->srr0 = (int)p->p_sigctx.ps_sigcode;
Once the problem was found, it was quite easy to fix by changing the third line in the above code fragment:
tf->fixreg[3] = (int)native_to_linux_sig[sig];
With this fix, Java programs forking native programs are able to work without suffering random failures. It also has the side effect of fixing the mail and news part of Netscape Communicator that was previously broken.
The previous fix helps the JDK a lot, but there are still some rare hangs. One can be observed when building Apache foundation's Jakarta-Ant, the
make(1)-like build utility for Java. Another hang occurred when attempting to run Jakarta-Tomcat, the Apache foundation's JSP server. In this section, we will focus on the problem with Jakarta-Ant.
The offending program here was
javac, the Java compiler. The problem was obviously emulation related because it was possible to successfully build Jakarta-Ant using a native build of Jikes, the Java compiler written in C.
The JDK-1.2.2 logging feature was again very useful. For the Java compiler, this can be enabled by invoking
javac_g -J-Xl6 (no space after the J) instead of just
javac. This is worth the comment because the
-J flag is not documented except in the JDK sources.
Note that anyone can get the JDK sources, the only requirement is to make an agreement with Sun. But be aware that reading the JDK sources will make you unable to contribute to any open-source Java implementation such as Kaffe.
ktrace(1) against
javac_g with full logging enabled, Hendricks was able to discover that the hang was caused by a spurious
SIGIO. We then tried a few C programs that reproduced what the JDK was doing, and we ended with this test program:
* sigio2.c -- Test asynchronous I/O for pipes
#include <stdio.h>
#include <stdlib.h>
#include <unistd.h>
#include <signal.h>
#include <fcntl.h>
void io_sighandler (int sig) {
printf ("pid=%d got sigio\n", getpid ());
printf ("I GOT SIGIO\n");
exit (-1);
int main (int argc, char** argv) {
struct sigaction aio;
int fdsync[2];
int err;
char c;
sigset_t set;
aio.sa_flags = SA_RESTART;
aio.sa_handler = io_sighandler;
if (sigaction(SIGIO, &aio, 0) == -1) {
printf("Error: Bad return value from sigaction call\n");
if (pipe(fdsync) < 0) {
printf("Error: bad pipe call\n");
/* now set the pipe write end to be non-blocking async */
fcntl(fdsync[1],F_SETFL, O_NONBLOCK | FASYNC);
fcntl(fdsync[1],F_SETOWN, getpid());
err = write(fdsync[1], "AAAA", 4);
if (err < 0) {
printf("write() got err=%d\n", err);
printf ("written %d bytes\n", err);
sleep (1);
err = read(fdsync[0], &c, 1);
while (!err);
printf ("readen %d bytes\n", err);
printf("NO SIGIO\n");
This test program reproduces in one process what it takes the JVM two processes to synchronize: It makes use of asynchronous I/O through a pipe. Running this program natively on Linux and NetBSD gives different results. When we ran the program as a Linux binary on NetBSD, we got the NetBSD behavior and not the Linux behavior. This is where was the problem: NetBSD delivers a
SIGIO on the
read() call, whereas Linux does not. That is how the JVM got confused by the unexpected
At a glance, this may appear to be a bug in the way NetBSD handles asynchronous I/O. The writer has written 4 bytes to the pipe, and it is not blocked on the write operation. Thus, there is no reason why it needs to know that the reader has read one byte. Linux seems to implement a better behavior here.
In fact, this is not a real bug because it seems that there is no standard standard such as POSIX available that explains how asynchronous I/O is supposed to work. And with no such standard available, there can't be a "standard" behavior, and thus, this isn't considered a bug in the way NetBSD handles asynchronous I/O for native programs. Of course, there is still a bug in the way NetBSD was emulating asynchronous I/O for Linux binaries.
The lack of a standard is reflected by the diversity of the behaviors implemented by the different Unix systems. Running the test program on eight different operating systems gives the following results:
The systems triggering
SIGIO on
read() for pipes are in fact the Unix systems that still use the original pipe implementation from Berkley's BSD Unix, which is based on a pair of Unix domain sockets. Solaris uses an AT&T's Unix System V implementation that does not implement asynchronous I/O on pipes, and Linux has an implementation written from scratch that also ignores asynchronous I/O requests on pipes.
Digital Unix and MacOS X both have strong BSD roots, and it is not surprising that they behave in the same way that NetBSD does. What is surprising is that the two operating systems that are the closest to NetBSD, that is, FreeBSD and OpenBSD, implement a different behavior. This is just because they both use a new optimized pipe implementation, written by John Dyson for the FreeBSD project. This new implementation does not implement asynchronous I/O on
read() operations for pipes. FreeBSD pipes are currently being integrated in NetBSD, and using the new pipe implementation leads to the same behavior that Linux and other OSes have.
Once the problem has been identified, it is time to propose a fix. Let's have a look to the way the
SIGIO is issued.
When a process makes a
read() system call, the kernel runs the
sys_read() function, which is located in
sys_read() in turn calls
dofileread() from the same file.
dofileread() invokes the function pointed at by the
fo_read field of the file operation structure. This file operation structure,
struct fileops, is defined in
struct file, in
sys/sys/file.h. For pipes, it is initialized when the
pipe() system call is called.
pipe() is implemented in the kernel as
sys_pipe(), which is located in the
sys/kern/uipc_syscalls.c file.
sys_pipe() sets the file operation structure for pipes to a static fileops structure called "socketops."
The underlying idea of the fileops structure is to use an object-oriented scheme for file handling. All files are handled the same way by the kernel, through the standard methods available in the
struct fileops:
ioctl, etc. The
struct fileops is initialized when the file object (that is, the
struct file) is created, and the methods in it depend on the file type. A read operation on a pipe, a plain file, or a block device are hence requested the same way, but implemented by different functions.
Although this is not really related to the compatibility subsystem, it is probably worth mentioning that this scheme is widely used in the Unix kernel. The most popular application is probably the Virtual File System (VFS) interface. The VFS uses pointers to functions to provide the same programming interface to access regular files and directories stored on various filesystem types. The operations are pointed by the
v_op field of the
struct vnode (defined in
sys/sys/vnode.h). Depending if the regular file is on an FFS, NFS, or NTFS filesystem, file operations are requested the same way through pointers to filesystem-specific methods, and the operations are implemented by different functions depending on the filesystem.
But let's come back to pipe file operations.
socketops contains the file operations functions for all sockets. It is defined in
sys/kern/sys_socket.c, and its
fo_read field is a pointer to the
soo_read() function, located in
soo_read invokes a function pointed to by the
so_receive field of the
struct socket (defined in
sys/sys/socket.h) defining the receive method for the socket on which we want to read (remember pipes are implemented as Unix domain sockets in NetBSD).
We need to make one more long journey into the kernel sources to find out where
so_receive is pointing. In
sys_pipe(), we can see that the kernel is creating two Unix sockets to build the pipe. It does this by invoking
socreate(), which is located in
sys/kern/uipc_socket.c. In this function, there is some black magic to set the
so_receive field. Its value is copied from the
pr_usrreq field of a
struct protosw variable.
struct protosw is defined in
sys/sys/protosw.h. It defines per protocol properties for sockets. The
struct protosw variable used by
socreate() is obtained by a call to
pffindproto() can be found in
sys/kern/uipc_domain.c and its job is to return the
struct protosw for a given protocol.
protosw structures are statically initialized in
sys/kern/uipc.c. For a Unix socket, the
pr_usrreq field is pointing to
[XXX] sys/kern/uipc_usrreq.c:uipc_usrreq(). Now we finally know that
so_receive is pointing to
uipc_usrreq() is responsible for dispatching various sockets operations: receiving, sending, connecting, and so on. On receive operation (case
PRU_RCVD in the function), it ends by calling
sowwakeup(), which is a macro defined in
sys/sys/socketvar.h, and which calls
sowakeup() in
sowakeup()'s job is to wake up the peer process, issue a
SIGIO and make any appropriate upcall.
Modifying something in
uipc_usrreq() is not a good idea, it is complex enough. Care should be taken to fold in our fix somewhere else. In fact, the easiest way of fixing the problem would just be to ignore asynchronous I/O requests for binaries of operating systems that do not implement it for pipes. This fix would take place in the
fcntl() implementation. Let's have a look at the kernel sources.
sys_fcntl() is implemented in
sys/kern/kern_descrip.c. It basically calls the function pointed by the
fo_ioctl of the
struct fileops of the underlying object. Here, it is a Unix socket, and we saw the
struct fileops was implemented as the socketops static variable defined in
sys/kern/sys_socket.c. Thus,
fo_ioctl points to
soo_ioctl(), which is also defined in
sys/kern/sys_socket.c. To request asynchronous I/O, the calling process calls
fnctl() with the
FIOASYNC command. In
soo_ioctl(), the
FIOASYNC command was implemented like this:
case FIOASYNC:
if (*(int *)data)) {
so->so_state |= SS_ASYNC;
so->so_rcv.sb_flags |= SB_ASYNC;
so->so_snd.sb_flags |= SB_ASYNC;
} else {
so->so_state &= ~SS_ASYNC;
so->so_rcv.sb_flags &= ~SB_ASYNC;
so->so_snd.sb_flags &= ~SB_ASYNC;
return (0);
We wanted to prevent
soo_ioctl() from setting asynchronous flags when the socket was in fact a pipe and when the emulation was not NetBSD or Digital Unix. (There is no MacOS X emulation yet.) To achieve this, we needed to recognize sockets implementing a pipe. This was done by adding a
SS_ISAPIPE flag to the
so_flags field of
struct socket.
SS_ISAPIPE is defined in
#define SS_ISAPIPE 0x800 /* socket is implementing a pipe */
This flag is set in
sys_pipe(), in
sys/kern/uipc_syscalls.c so that we will be able to tell that this socket is a pipe:
if ((error = socreate(AF_LOCAL, &rso, SOCK_STREAM, 0)) != 0)
return (error);
if ((error = socreate(AF_LOCAL, &wso, SOCK_STREAM, 0)) != 0)
goto free1;
/* remember this socket pair implements a pipe */
wso->so_state |= SS_ISAPIPE;
rso->so_state |= SS_ISAPIPE;
Then we needed to know if a given emulation required the original BSD behavior for pipes or not. This was done by introducing another new flag, this time in the
e_flags field of
struct emul, which is defined in
* No BSD style async I/O pipes. Aync I/O request through
* fcntl() for pipes will be ignored.
#define EMUL_NO_BSD_ASYNCIO_PIPE 0x002
This flag is enabled or not in the
struct emul definition for each OS. For NetBSD native, the
struct emulsw is called
emul_netbsd, and it is initialized in in
sys/kern/kern_exec.c. For Linux, it is
emul_linux, initialized in
sys/compat/linux/common/linux_exec.c, and so on, the scheme is similar for other emulations.
With theses two additional flags, we can now do the job, and we end up with this implementation of
FIOASYNC in
case FIOASYNC:
if (
#ifndef __HAVE_MINIMAL_EMUL
(!(so->so_state & SS_ISAPIPE) ||
(!(p->p_emul->e_flags & EMUL_NO_BSD_ASYNCIO_PIPE))) &&
*(int *)data) {
so->so_state |= SS_ASYNC;
so->so_rcv.sb_flags |= SB_ASYNC;
so->so_snd.sb_flags |= SB_ASYNC;
} else {
so->so_state &= ~SS_ASYNC;
so->so_rcv.sb_flags &= ~SB_ASYNC;
so->so_snd.sb_flags &= ~SB_ASYNC;
return (0);
__HAVE_MINIMAL_EMUL ifdef is here because the
e_flags field in
struct emul is also in a
__HAVE_MINIMAL_EMUL ifdef.
With this implementation, the pipe behavior was fixed for Linux and Solaris binaries, and probably other emulations as well. This fixed our problem with Jakarta-Ant build, and it greatly improved the usability of Jakarta-Tomcat, because it was then able to work with JDK-1.3.0 and Green Threads. Thanks to Linux emulation, it is now possible to play with servlets and JSP on NetBSD/PowerPC.
Emmanuel Dreyfus is a system and network administrator in Paris, France, and is currently a developer for NetBSD.
Previously in this series
Linux Compatibility on BSD for the PPC Platform -- The Linux compatibility layer allows BSD to run Linux binary applications. Emmanuel Dreyfus explains how he implemented this on NetBSD for the PowerPC.
Linux Compatibility on BSD for the PPC Platform: Part 2 -- Emmanuel Dreyfus takes a look at how to prevent dynamic Linux binary compatibility problems on the NetBSD/PowerPC platform.
Linux Compatibility on BSD for the PPC Platform: Part 3 -- Signals are the interactions between the kernel and the user program -- a program can't run without them. Emmanuel Dreyfus explains how to make your signals Linux-compatible.
Return to ONLamp.com.
Copyright © 2009 O'Reilly Media, Inc.


text:
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subset: commoncrawl


text:
Hamlin apologizes for Logano bump
"At the end of the race I shouldn't have degraded him as a driver,'' he said. "It's not my job to say who's good or bad in our sport. That part probably should have been left out.'' Hamlin and Logano haven't communicated since a battle of words on Twitter Sunday night. Logano indicated the issue that began at the Daytona 500 with Hamlin criticizing his driving wasn't over. "I feel like I've told him everything I can tell him,'' Logano told ESPN.com earlier in the week. "I've got nothing to say.'' Hamlin considers the issue over because they haven't talked.(ESPN)(3-22-2013)


text:
My little guy has his first bout with vomitting and diarrea and I would love some ideas on how to keep him hydrated.
He has projectile vomited three times, the last two times waking himself up after nursing to sleep, the first in the car on the way home from Walmart. He also had diarrea (not sorry that I don't know how to spell that word) and I am getting concerned about keeping him hydrated.
My pedi's nurse recommended 7up, and clear juices and nursing, along with salty crackers/pretzels to keep his tummy full. He loves the crackers, but isn't a fan of the juices or 7up. He has had minimal water, and threw up all my milk he ate.
Apart from the violent heaves and crying after he throws up, he seems to feel better and is in good spirits, no lethargy or anything.
What are signs of dehydration I need to look for? Any tips on how to get liquids down him? Could this be something serious, and what should I keep an eye out for?


text:
The Knitting Universe
Knitter's Magazine
XRX Books
STITCHES Events
How to Register
Camp San Antonio 2017 Getaway Finsihed
STITCHES West 2017
Camp STITCHES San Antonio 2017
STITCHES United 2017
Become a Vendor
Become a STITCHES Instructor
the key:
Classes with a picture icon have images on the class detail page
Crochet-friendly class
No skill required
Know basic stitches (knit, purl or single crochet, double crochet).
You should know the basics, how to increase and decrease, and have made at least one project.
You should have worked with a few stitch patterns and should be familiar with basic garment shaping.
You should have made several garments in various stitch patterns and should be comfortable making minor changes to patterns. Advanced is fun and challenging for thinking knitters.
After many years of teaching knitting and crochet, Deborah discovered weaving in 1996, and her love of fiber, texture, and color came together. Since then she has worked full time as a weaver and artist, including teaching fiber arts, creating and selling wearable art, giving lectures, and showing in local, regional, and national exhibits. Deborah's work has been exhibited at galleries and museums across the country, and she has won numerous awards and written articles for national publications. Her work has been commissioned by churches and is in many private collections. Since 2004 she has been an artist in residence, teacher, and weaver at Studio Channel Islands Art Center in Camarillo, CA.┬Ā
Deborah loves helping knitters discover the joy of weaving.
For more about Deborah, go to
STITCHES Midwest 2013 Classes
Back To STITCHES Midwest 2013 Class List
Friday 2:00 pm - 5:00 pm
No skills required
Introduction to Rigid Heddle Looms
Have you wondered which rigid heddle loom might be best for you? In class, you will be able to try out various brands of looms to see how they work. Take turns weaving on pre-warped looms and complete two or more mug rugs while experimenting with the looms. If you are thinking about learning rigid heddle weaving, this class is the perfect opportunity to see what it is all about. If you have already tried rigid heddle weaving, do not miss this chance to see how the different looms work.
Note: Schacht, Glimakra, and Ashford looms provided for class use.
Materials Fee: $5
Saturday 8:30 am - 11:30 am Saturday 2:00 pm - 5:00 pm
No skills required
Log Cabin Pattern Scarf on the Rigid Heddle Loom
Learn to make a stunning scarf in the beautiful log cabin pattern using the rigid heddle loom. You can learn to create a wonderful woven piece that looks complicated but is really very easy. If you've taken beginning rigid heddle weaving, enhance your skills. If you still haven't tried this exciting fiber technique, now is the time to begin. This type of weaving is portable, easy, and fun!
Note: Looms provided for class use.
STITCHES Midwest 2013 ETC Classes
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Sunday 8:30 am - 4:30 pm Monday 9:00 am - 4:00 pm
No skills required
Playing with Pick Up!
Go beyond the basics and weave more than plain weave on your rigid heddle loom. Let Deborah show you how to create decorative designs and textures in the structure of your woven fabric. Spend two days immersed in the joy of weaving with pick up sticks, learning to make additional sheds and manipulate your warp threads. Discover the difference between warp and weft floats and how to use them to create your desired patterns in a sampler. Try out lace patterns, honeycomb, waffle weave, and more. After learning a variety of patterns, see how the right finishing techniques really make your patterns pop! This sampler will be your basis for planning many beautiful future textiles. While weaving the sampler, students will learn various methods for finishing the ends, how to wet finish the woven pieces, and many tips for easier weaving. After you finish your sampler Deborah will walk you through planning future projects based on the patterns you like best.
Note: Students must be familiar with the rigid heddle loom and have taken a beginning rigid heddle weaving class or equivalent.
This event is also available as part of a combo package which includes this class, 15 hours of classes, Opening Day and Luncheon, Fashion Show and Dinner, and the Student Banquet.
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Cranberry Snowball Cake
- Prep Time: 25 min
- Cook Time: 50 min
- Ready Time: 300 min
- Yield: 16 to 24 servings
- 1 package Pillsbury™ Moist Supreme® Sugar Free Classic Yellow Premium Cake Mix
- 3 cups water, divided
- 1/3 cup Crisco® Pure Vegetable Oil
- 3 large eggs
- 2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries, plus additional for garnish, if desired
- 2 cups frozen sliced strawberries
- 2 (4 serving size) packages sugar free cranberry flavor gelatin
- No calorie sweetener, to taste*
- 1 (15 oz.) can Pillsbury™ Creamy Supreme® Sugar Free Vanilla Flavored Frosting
- 1 (8 oz.) container frozen sugar free whipped topping, thawed
- Coarse decorator sugar (optional)
- Fresh mint leaves (optional)
Preparation Directions
- HEAT oven to 325°F. Prepare cake mix according to package directions using 1 cup water, oil and eggs. Spread batter into a 13x9-inch baking pan. Bake 34 to 38 minutes or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool completely on wire rack.
- COMBINE remaining 2 cups water and cranberries in medium saucepan. Bring to a boil over high heat. Reduce heat and simmer 10 minutes or until cranberries are tender. Add gelatin, stirring 2 minutes or until dissolved. Stir in frozen strawberries and sweetener. Mash with potato masher to break up fruit. Chill until very thick and almost set, about 1 hour.
- LINE a 4-quart bowl with plastic wrap. Cut cake into 48 equal-sized pieces. Stir gelatin mixture; spread 1/4 cup to coat plastic wrap in lower third of lined bowl. Randomly place 12 cake pieces in bowl, leaving a small space between cake pieces. Evenly spoon about 1 cup gelatin mixture over cake in bowl, allowing gelatin to seep between cake pieces. Repeat cake and gelatin layers three times, using remaining cake and gelatin mixture. Gently press down on surface to compact cake pieces and create a flat surface on top. Cover and chill at least 2 hours to set gelatin.
- INVERT cake onto serving platter; remove plastic wrap. Place 1/4 cup frosting in a small resealable plastic bag. Combine remaining frosting and whipped topping in medium bowl. Beat with electric mixer until well blended. Frost cake. Microwave remaining frosting in plastic bag on HIGH 5 seconds to warm slightly. Knead. Cut a very small hole in bottom corner of plastic bag. Drizzle over cake. Sprinkle cake with coarse sugar, if desired. Garnish with cranberries and mint leaves to resemble holly, if desired.
- TIP * There are a variety of no-calorie sweeteners available. Each measures differently and provides a different level of sweetness. For this recipe we suggest using the sweetness equivalent to 1/4 cup sugar.
Nutritional Information Per Serving
Serving Size (1/16), Calories 270 (Calories from Fat 110), Total Fat 15g (Saturated Fat 4g, Trans Fat 2g), Cholesterol 40mg, Sodium 300mg, Total Carbohydrate 43g (Dietary Fiber 4g, Sugars 2g), Protein 3g; Percent Daily Value*: Vitamin A 2%, Vitamin C 8%, Calcium 0%, Iron 2%.
*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
* Ensure all recipe ingredients are gluten free by referencing the ingredient labels, as products may vary. If uncertain, contact the ingredient manufacturer.


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Your complete guide toHMSA's new Patient-CenteredMedical Home initiative.
Your complete guide toHMSA's new qualityinvestment program.
A new tool to help doctors maximize efficiency and improve quality. Learn More
Your comprehensive, up-to-date online reference for important news, policies, and documents. Learn More
Access data to verify member eligibility and benefits and claims status. Login
The Commercial, QUEST Integration, and HMSA Akamai Advantage primary care pay-for-quality program.
On behalf of HMSA, Applied Research Works provides Cozeva, an online tool for HMSA providers to engage members. Applied Research Works is an independent company.
An Independent Licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association
© 2016 Hawaii Medical Service Association All rights reserved
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Motion graphics and VFX artist Ran Ben Avraham shows how to use the 3D and compositing features in After Effects to create a volcanic landscape and 3D type.
All Courses
- 3D + Animation
- Video (16)
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- Compositing (7)
- Character Animation (6)
- Projects (6)
- Visual Effects (4)
- Animation (3)
- Rendering (3)
- Rigging (3)
- Materials (2)
- video2brain (2)
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- Appropriate for all (993)
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Build a complete 3D motion graphics sequence in CINEMA 4D Lite, the introductory version of CINEMA 4D included with After Effects CC.
Bring your logos to life with this quick start guide for animating and compositing a logo design in CINEMA 4D and After Effects.
Learn how to use the extensive range of tools in 3ds Max to render out elements for compositing in After Effects.
Use CINEMA 4D's Dynamic module to animate falling coins that bounce and collide realistically, in this project-based course.
Create 3D objects in CINEMA 4D and seamlessly composite them inside a 2D project in After Effects, using the CINEWARE plugin.
Learn how to animate and render a professional-looking 3D space scene with Maya.
Learn to rig and animate a 3D robotic arm in CINEMA 4D.
Model and animate a stylized 3D flower that grows and blooms over time, using the combined power of CINEMA 4D and Adobe After Effects.
Learn to create rope, cable, hair, and string-like effects that lead to realistic motion and elasticity with C4D's Dynamics module.
Learn how to create 3D models in the CINEMA 4D Lite plugin offered with After Effects CC, in the first installment of After Effects Guru.
Discover how to create render passes in Maya, recombine the passes in After Effects, and motion track the passes to live-action video footage that contains a moving camera or a moving character.
Shows how to turn a daytime summer scene into a nighttime winter scene using Photoshop and After Effects, with illustrator David Mattingly's production-proven matte painting techniques.
Breaks down the process of creating, rigging, and animating the arm of a character in an opening title sequence in After Effects—a task traditionally performed using rigging or skeleton tools available in 3D programs.
Create and animate highly controllable characters using After Effects.
Demonstrates how to render an animation in CINEMA 4D and apply two different visual styles in After Effects.
Discover how to import layered files and paths from Illustrator into After Effects, animate flat vector artwork in both 2D and 3D space, and output your animations.
Follows the creation of a short animated film, from storyboard through final output, using After Effects CS3.
Learn methods and best practices for creating fantastic animation.
"IThis is a wonderful resource for me which I use almost daily in my personal education." —Virginia M.
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Silvertone Filigree Drop Earring
Style: 570073998
Out of Stock
Polished openwork bead is placed in between sparkling faceted crystals in soft neutrals. Matches the Silvertone Filigree Hi-Lo Necklace and Charm Bracelet.
- French wire. 2" drop.
- Faceted glass rondelles in pavé crystal and neutral. Rhodium-finish nickel-free metal.
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The focus of the program will be weed and brush control and understanding water law. The program will feature "Laws and Regulations" by Jon Schmidt, Texas Department of Agriculture; "Pesticide Contamination into Coastal Waterways" by Michael Donalson, Refugio CEA; "Chemical Control Update for Weed and Brush" by Dr. Megan Clayton, Extension Range Specialist; "Water Law" by Tiffany Dowell, Texas A&M AgriLife Specialist and a demonstration on sprayer calibration.
Five CEUs will be provided at a cost of $50 for all five hours or $10 per hour.
For information, contact the extension offices in, Bee (362-3280), Goliad (645-8204) or Refugio (526-2825).


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Allan Mitchell
elastIO focusses on search and data integration. Text data is increasing at an incredible rate. Being able to derive meaning and intelligence from free text is hard but necessary if businesses are to get any ROI from things such as weblogs. Search can offer your users a much better experience over your websites enabling them to find the things they need quicker. We have extensive experience in elasticSearch, SolR and Azure Search. Data will always need to flow from one place to another. This could be the overnight batch job which takes data from an OLTP system and puts it into a Data Warehouse having first done some cleansing and conforming or it could be the sensors on your machinery in the warehouse which are constantly emitting data and you need to reason over those events and perhaps take action. We are experts in SSIS, Azure Streaming Analytics, Storm, Azure Machine Learning and Azure Data Factory
Advanced SSIS
Loading Partitions directly Consuming a package in SSRS Using a DM algorithm in the pipeline to see if the new customer meets criteria Fuzzy Grouping for deduplicating
Katmai v SQL 2005
What has changed for the better and worse.
Making more of SSIS in 2008
Getting more value from your data through data mining
Data Mining and SSIS - makes sense
Using a predictive technology inside something that moves your data around really makes sense sometimes although not a lot of people are taking advantage of it. Let me show you how to use the two together
Excel - An Excellent Data Mining Tool
Using Excel as a Data Mining client is a very good move. Very visual and very easy to use.
SSIS in SQL Server 2008
A look at some of the things that make using SSIS in SQL Server 2008 a very good choice for your ETL requirements
Common Integration Services Problems
Common Integration Services Problems and Solutions
StreamInsight Deep Dive
Look deep under the covers at what is involved when building a StreamInsight application.
StreamInsight-Solving Business problems (Deep Dive)
Event Stream Processing opens up a mass of opportunities for reacting to patterns in your data in realtime. This session shows you how.
Data Quality Services-Making Data Suitable for Business
Data Quality Services is a new product coming in the SQL Server Denali release of Microsoft SQL Server. Come to this session to understand how it can take your data cleansing to the next level.
Incremental Loading of Data using CDC in SQL Server 2012
More data, less time, storing everything. These ingredients mean it is becoming imperative we do not move the kitchen sink everytime we do our ETL Come to this session to find out how.
A Look at 3 Big Data Tools
This session will look at SQOOP, PIG and HIVE. Three tools which are essential in your Big Data Toolbox. We'll look at what they do, how they do it and why you would want to use them
Getting Started with Azure DocumentDB
Come to this session if you want to find out about Microsoft's Document storage option in the cloud. You will leave understanding what it is, why it exists and how to get started.
Getting Started with Azure Search
Need to search your data efficiently whilst in the cloud? This session introduces you to MSFT's highly scalable search solution in Azure
Building scalable analytical solutions on Azure
Come to this session to see how to build a scalable analytical solution on Microsoft Azure with Elastic Search and Kibana.
Dumping data into Azure Data Lake with Data Factory
An introduction with worked examples of the new Data Lake storage platform in Azure.
The Modern Intelligent Application
This session will examine how to successfully design a modern data architecture on the Microsoft Azure cloud platform. Focusing on design tenants for efficient, scalable and resilient data processing


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Via Christi Hospital
https://www.viachristi.org/location/via-christi-hospital-manhattan
Via Christi Hospital Manhattan offers quality healthcare services including cancer care, trauma, heart catherization and pediatric care.
Hospital

Via Christi Hospital

Via Christi Health

1823 College Ave.
Manhattan
KS
66502
(785) 776-3322
Via Christi Hospital in Manhattan, previously Mercy Regional Health Center, is a healthcare leader in northeastern Kansas, with 150 physicians, 800 employees and 350 volunteers serving the people of Manhattan and the surrounding areas with a wide range of quality health and wellness services.
Mercy announced in February 2014 that it would fully join Via Christi Health, the largest nonprofit healthcare provider in Kansas. Previously, Via Christi and the Memorial Hospital Association (MHA) had a joint 50-50 ownership of Mercy, with Via Christi providing management services.
A $15.5 million facility expansion will include completion of space in the north tower for outpatient services; expansion and renovation of the Emergency Department and Birth and Women's department; and construction of a new chapel.
The transition to Via Christi solidifies the Manhattan hospital as a healthcare leader in northcentral Kansas, and enhances care for the poor and vulnerable in the region. The transition of Mercy's Sunset campus to Kansas State University will create a foundation to help improve healthcare services in the area.
Via Christi is a member of Ascension, the largest Catholic and nonprofit healthcare system in the country. As a Catholic healthcare system, Via Christi operates in alignment with the Ethical and Religious Directives for Catholic Health Care Services.
Other changes
Naming changes also are coming to other healthcare entities in Manhattan. Those include:
- Women's Imaging Center and Mercy Imaging Center, 1133 College Ave., Bldg. G, is now Via Christi Imaging
- Sunset Campus, 1105 Sunset Ave., is now Via Christi Clinic
- Mercy East, 451 Poyntz Ave., is now Via Christi Therapy Center
- Mercy West, 315 S. Seth Child Road, is now Via Christi Clinic and Via Christi Therapy Center
- Mercy Regional Home Medical Services, 2439 Claflin Road, is now Via Christi Home Medical
- Physician Specialists, 3901 Vanesta Drive, Suite E, is now Via Christi Clinic
The transition of all signs and printed materials is expected to take one to two years.
Via Christi Hospital in Manhattan is an acute care facility licensed to operate 150 beds in two facilities, this private, not-for-profit organization was created in 1996 by combining The Saint Mary Hospital and Memorial Hospital. The primary mission of Mercy Regional is to promote community health by providing quality, compassionate healthcare services that embrace our values of quality, human dignity and community. In other words, our purpose is caring for, and about, our patients.
Mercy Regional officially became Via Christi Hospital in April 2015.


text:
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Click here to get the current version.
Sport-Tek® Ladies Full-Zip Hooded Fleece Jacket. L265
A three-panel hood and updated fit make this your go-to favorite.
Ladies Sizes: XS-4XL
Price starts at: $42.47
For detailed PRICING, please select "Add to
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Striped Bateau Pullover
Style: 570082117
Out of Stock
WHBM logo buttons shine on the shoulders of a lightweight, fluid knit in graphic bar stripes. From a bateau neckline, it follows curves to stretchy ribbing around the hips. 100% Rayon. Machine wash. Imported.
- Stretch fit.
- Extended shoulder with three silvertone logo buttons.
- Bra strap guides.
- Hits at mid hip (25" from shoulder).
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Re: A joke, sore loser.. and nothing
palino_s wrote:michaeljohn wrote:just cuz she was Tony K's teammate doesnt mean she has dibs on his championship, unless i am totally reading it wrong, still early for me.
wtf? You are still sleeping. (sarcasm)
TK's championship was in 2004 while Danica was in Europe racing in the Formula series
and yeah MJ, she is originally from northern Illinois, and I agree about teammates not being able to claim dibs on another teammates' championship (that should be a no-brainer )


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INGREDIENTS:8 oz. dry white beans 1 dried chipotle pepper 1 Tbsp. olive oil 2 Tbsp. minced shallots 1 Tbsp. minced garlic 8 oz. multi-colored chard, washed and sliced cross-wise, ¼ inch thick 1 lb. green beans, bias-cut in 1 inch pieces 3 medium tomatoes, seeded and diced 4 oz. baby greens, chopped 4 oz. goat cheeseBalsamic Walnut Vinaigrette: 3 Tbsp. balsamic vinegar 3/4 tsp. salt 1 Tbsp. minced garlic 1/3 cup walnut oil DIRECTIONS:Rinse white beans. Place in a pot with enough water to ...
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text: Before I stopped breast feeding I had a really strong let down reflex. I could always feel it coming and we had to learn to deal with milk coming too fast for my babe. It's been about 2 months with only comfort nursing and around a week of relactating and I'm not letting down. I never do with the pump and I'm starting to get DD to suck a bit harder but she never gets the faster flow of milk so she gets frustrated. Is it possible that my body forgot how to let down? Is there anything I can do to encourage it? I think if I could get that going for me I may have a fighting chance to get DD back on the breast.


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Topsy Turvey: Bebop Redux a la Matt Wilson via Lost Jazz Shrines
June 1, 2011. Posted by Becca Pulliam.Add new comment | Filed under: concerts, Jazz Alive, Lost Jazz Shrines, matt wilson
Last Friday night, I attended and loved this concert at the Borough of Manhattan Community College! The music had roots, it left them behind, it was a generous night.
Musical Director Matt Wilson calls the music "pre-bop," small group material from the 1940s by Neal Hefti, John Lewis, John Kirby, Tiny Grimes, Tiny Kahn, NEW arrangements for the occasion by Oded Lev-Ari. Matt assembled an improbable and wonderful band, below. Each player projected, each piece was a gem. Coming out of intermission, Matt gave us a "collision of songs," "a mashup," from an affecting trio arrangement of his "No Outerwear" (a/k/a "Out of Nowhere" and maybe "OON" is written on "Honeysuckle Rose?" .. help me here) to surprise walk on's by the rest of the group, vocalizing; things progressed unpredictably from there. If only I'd taken some legible notes. The smaller theater at BMCC worked beautifully for this; I saw Vijay's hands at work better than ever I've seen them before. Photos of 52nd Street a/k/a Swing Street were the backdrop.
Lost Jazz Shrines is Willard Jenkins' continuing series, and this Spring is the first time Willard has brought in a Musical Director. On Friday, June 3, see conguero Candido -- born in Havana, came to NY in 1946 -- with Matt's quintet Arts & Crafts. I wish we were recording these great nights for JazzSet!
Luckily I was sitting near a good photographer! BTW, Matt Wilson is also the Artist-in-Residence at this summer's Litchfield Jazz Festival in Kent, CT.


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'A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum'
August 30, 2013
August 31, 2013
The Sullivan County Dramatic Workshop presents "A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum" at the Rivoli Theatre, 8pm. Tickets are available at www.scdw.net and cost $22 for adults, $18 for seniors (60+), students (with ID) and veterans.
For More Information:


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Crystal Lake South's Ryan Spiniolas is a leader on the football field, though he never has to dodge incoming defensive linemen.
But his work on Friday nights will take him to New York City in November to participate in the 2013 Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade.
Spiniolas isn't a football player; he's the junior drum major for the CLS Marching Musicians.
He's also the first chair clarinet player in the school's wind ensemble, as well as a saxophone player in the jazz band.
The audition process to be a drum major is an intense one, band director Chris Keyes said, including conducting, mace (baton) work and marching. There's even an essay and an interview.
"They have to show leadership in actions and words," Keyes said.
Each year at South, there are two drum majors: a senior and a junior.
Both are sent to the Smith-Walbridge Drum Major Clinic, a well-known camp held at Eastern Illinois University each summer, to learn "what it takes to be a drum major," Keyes said.
Like a lot of kids, Spiniolas got interested in music in fifth grade, when schools often start to offer instrumental music.
He chose the clarinet. He also tried out percussion but found that he didn't like it.
By high school, he realized he had a talent for music, which in turn led him to practice more. And we all know what they say about practice.
In addition to the high school band, Spiniolas also took part in a mentorship program to help area middle school students continue to play their instruments over the summer. He regularly worked with six young clarinet players.
Spiniolas also has gotten involved with the Crystal Lake City Band, where he gets to perform with musicians who are a lot older.
"It's kind of cool to see how, as far as the age barrier, to see how that doesn't matter in how good you are," Spiniolas said. "It's really cool to see people at all different levels, something you don't see in high school."
But it was because Spiniolas took part in the drum major clinic that he was invited to apply for the Macy's Great American Marching Band.
In New York City, he will be marching and playing his clarinet along with other musicians from around the United States in one of the nation's most prestigious parades.
In addition to performing, Spiniolas also will get a chance to do some sightseeing amid the rehearsals.
Of course, it isn't an inexpensive endeavor, as you might imagine.
"Although I am more than thrilled to receive this honor, the challenge for me is the $2,000 cost of the trip, which includes airfare, hotel and meals," Spiniolas wrote in a letter he sent to our newsroom to ask that we publicize his trip.
So if you'd like to help him get to New York, you can contact him via email at firstname.lastname@example.com.
And when you're watching the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, keep your eye out for the clarinet player from Crystal Lake.
• Joan Oliver is the assistant news editor for the Northwest Herald. She can be reached at 815-526-4552 or by email at firstname.lastname@example.com.


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Thank you for your interest in submitting a sponsorship proposal to Qatar Airways.
Due to the high level of interest in Qatar Airways sponsorships, we can only support a limited number of requests. As a result, we must often turn down applicants even if they fit our sponsorship guidelines.
Please submit your sponsorship proposal at least 12 weeks prior to the proposed event or activity in order to provide us with adequate time to evaluate your proposal, negotiate agreements, and plan our participation.
If your event is selected, you will be contacted within 4-6 weeks of submitting your proposal.


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Dear Mets:
See, I'm all excited. Because a very generous, and slightly crazy, Rob decided he and I had to be there for you at every Shea game of the post-season. Now, whenever I think of sitting in our third-row loge seats, I feel butterflies in my tummy. About a week ago, those butterflies were the kind where you can't believe how lucky you are. The kind where you think you're about to see the most amazing, uplifting event ever. And you'll be sharing it with a stadium of over 50,000 people.
Now, I've still got butterflies. But…they're more like the kind you get when you've just interviewed for your dream job, and you're waiting to hear if you got it.
Boys? I'm nervous. Pedro? You're starting in eight minutes. And I'm hoping I won't have to watch with my hands over my face.
We need this one. Obviously not because it means anything within the division, but because of where your heads need to be come next week. You need the confidence. The swagger. You need Pedro and Jose Reyes goofing around in the dugout. And you need to believe with every play that you can win this thing. If a win with Pedro on the mound is what it takes? Then please, Pedro, turn this month around for us. Okay, amigo?
To come so far. To feel such excitement, such gratitude. To have it all fizzle away would be heartbreaking for all of us. Whatever you need to do, Mets, to get back to where you've been. Please, please get there.
You know, quickly.
Thanks, guys! Love you!
6 Comments
Wow, would have never thought of that! Thanks.
So…pep talk didn't do much good. And neither did Willie's. I hope I can sleep tonight.
This is just making me sad. (But happy for you.)
wow… what a rough night at Turner Field (haven't I said that before in the last 8 years or so? lol)
Not having Pedro is a big blow.. but on the bright side, at least we found out now what he has left, and not in Game One of the NLDS.
If the offensive picks it up, it probably won't matter. Our bullpen is still six men deep. Just hope our rotation can keep us in it for 5 innings or so…
~ Eddie @ Willie Ball


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I think to be perfectly honest the front office did not see us making serious noise this season, hence why we kept Billups player option, so we would have a large expiring which may tempt some teams (especially if the cap is lowered) and also he would potentially feel loyal to us to sign a cheap deal in 2012 to stick around.
The only real possibility to make serious roster improvements is via trades and most teams that have a decent center also have decent guards, it's front office 101 that you need a solid C and a solid backcourt. We are one of the few teams who fails to subscribe to this notion.


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My chickens are a big part of the family, I enjoy watching them and the things they do. During the last snow storm I put one of them on my daughters sled and we towed him up to the front of the house where my kids and the neighbor decided to take him sliding with them. He never tried to jump off and seemed to have as much fun with the kids as they did with him
By: soaper4Subscribe Channel: Pets & Animals Location: Harrisville, NY
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says ... on Monday, Feb 8 at 10:46 PM
Like your pictures they are cute and funny. Arooster of all things. I had to look again, again37256597
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Hiking Boots & Shoes
Hiking Boots & Shoes
Learn More About Hiking Boots & Shoes
Ready for the Trail: Shop Hiking Boots
Take on the trek in the right pair of men's hiking boots.
Backcountry adventurers and off-road runners alike can find the right footwear for the trail at DICK'S Sporting Goods. Discover rugged hiking boots, mid-cut shoes and trail-running footwear-all crafted for traction, stability and comfort.
The right technical features provide performance in the great outdoors. Traction-optimized outsoles grip uneven terrain, while waterproof uppers shield against chill and moisture. Compression-molded insoles improve gait and enhance comfort. Browse the full collection:
Explore trail shoes and hiking boots from popular brands, including Merrell®, KEEN® and Columbia®.
Expert Advice
Think about your outing-where do you plan to hike and what will the conditions be like?
Light hiking boots are geared toward novice and intermediate hikers. Think one to two-day hikes with a simple day pack carrying only essentials. These boots are constructed for a lightweight, flexible fit with minimal support. Uppers consist of both mesh and leather for breathability added comfort. Opt for a low-cut hiking boot or sneaker-inspired design.
Technical hiking boots are built for experienced hikers trekking on a multi-day hike over a variety of terrains. These boots are outfitted with maximum support, full-grain uppers and added cushioning.
Keep in mind the added details you need to make the most of your excursion. Shanks, located in the midsole of your boot, offer added stability and support. A gusseted tongue prevents debris from penetrating your shoe. And you can customize your footwear with removable footbeds or insoles.
Think about your shoe construction when making your selection:
Upper: A full-grain leather upper is supportive, durable and waterproof. Suede uppers offer more flexibility and breathability on the trail, but not as much support and weather protection as a full-grain leather. Suede is not waterproof, but can be treated for water resistance.
Midsole: The midsole of your boot disperses weight to provide stability. The midsole can be composed of a variety of materials. Compression-molded EVA, or Ethyl Vinyl Acetate foam, offer a lightweight fit. Materials including TRP and polyurethane are lightweight, comfortable and deliver adequate shock absorption.
Outsole: Hiking boot outsoles are construction of rubber and offer added traction when hiking over a variety of surfaces. Lugs or treads help increase traction-but remember, the deeper they are, the heavier your boot will feel.
Stock up for your journey: Shop hiking and camping backpacks at DICK'S Sporting Goods.


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US Peace Corps
|?staging date=
|?staging city=
|sort=Staging date
American Overseas Staff (FY2010): {{#ask:2010_pcstaff_salary::+country name is::Turkmenistan
Latest Early Termination Rates (FOIA 11-058): {{#ask:Country_early_termination_rate::+country name is::Turkmenistan
|Peace Corps Welcome Book
|Country Director:
|Program Dates:
|Current Volunteers:
|Total Volunteers:
|Languages Spoken:
Turkmenistan is a land of deserts, mountains, camels, yurts, melons, shashlik stands, and ruins of ancient cities. Volunteers living in this breathtaking country experience the richness of Turkmenistan's culture and the warmth of its people.
A former republic of the Soviet Union, Turkmenistan declared independence in October 1991. The first Volunteers arrived in 1993. Peace Corps Volunteers work in two program areas in Turkmenistan: English education and health education and extension.
Turkmenistan has had little contact with the outside world, even before being absorbed by the Soviet Union more than 70 years ago. The first American a Turkmen will meet is often a Peace Corps Volunteer.
At the same time, working in a part of the world few people have even heard of is one of the unique aspects of Peace Corps/Turkmenistan.
Peace Corps History
Main article: History of the Peace Corps in Turkmenistan
The Peace Corps first entered Turkmenistan in 1993 with an education project. In this project, Volunteers taught English in secondary schools, institutes of higher learning, and the Institute of Curriculum Development. Volunteers are catalysts in addressing Turkmenistan's desire to expand English education programs in primary and secondary schools nationwide, to increase English teachers' ability to communicate in the language, and to introduce contemporary teaching methodologies.
To support Turkmenistan in its efforts to improve English education, the education project emphasizes the teacher-training component. Local teachers are already well qualified to teach grammar, but Volunteers can contribute significantly to their communication skills and are placed more in regions where teachers' needs are the greatest.
In 1995, the Peace Corps began working in the health sector, offering training to maternal and child health providers. Responding to the needs of Turkmenistan's healthcare system, the Peace Corps later shifted the project to community health, placing more emphasis on community health education, extension, and prevention.
Living Conditions and Volunteer Lifestyle
Main article: Living conditions and volunteer lifestyles in Turkmenistan
Peace Corps/Turkmenistan requires that Volunteers live with host families for the first three months of service to better understand the cultural context within which they are living and working. Host families receive training in safety and security support for Volunteers and in issues of American diversity and values. Any change in host family or move to an apartment or home after the required host family stay must meet Peace Corps safety and security standards and be approved by your program manager in advance. In some communities, it may not be culturally appropriate to live alone, particularly for women (of any age).
The Peace Corps' approach to safety is based on the premise that Volunteers are safest and most effective when they are fully integrated into their communities and have gained the trust and respect of the local people. Before making site assignments, the Peace Corps considers site-specific information, input from host country sponsors (i.e., local schools, hospitals, or health facility directors), and trainees' skills, abilities, and special concerns (e.g., medical, health, and safety). This careful matching process aims to place Volunteers at the sites most in need of their type of assistance in the hope that this will result in a positive, rewarding experience for both Volunteers and the people of Turkmenistan. The program manager and program assistant are responsible for finding initial housing for Volunteers in coordination with host country site supervisors.
Main article: Training in Turkmenistan
The primary goal of pre-service training is to prepare you for the first three to six months of Volunteer service. By the end of training, you will not be fluent in Turkmen, or understand everything you want to know about your primary assignment, but you will have enough knowledge and skills to get started. Pre-service training is designed to help you meet challenges as they arise and adapt to unanticipated occurrences. During training, you will also receive important information regarding administrative aspects of Volunteer service such as financial matters and Peace Corps policies.
Community-based training facilitates your integration into your community and work by helping you learn cultural adaptation skills, begin to develop good working relationships with host country colleagues, and gain the skills needed to carry out your projects and activities independently. You will be given many opportunities to demonstrate your skills during training so that you can see and evaluate your progress. As a trainee, you are required to attend all training sessions; optional events, such as certain outings, parties, and specially called meetings, will be clearly stated as such.
Health Care and Safety
Main article: Health care and safety in Turkmenistan
The Peace Corps' highest priority is maintaining the health and safety of every Volunteer. Peace Corps medical programs emphasize the preventive, rather than the curative, approach to disease. The Peace Corps in Turkmenistan maintains a joint medical unit with a full-time medical officer, who takes care of Volunteers' primary healthcare needs as well as those of the U.S. embassy staff. Additional medical services, such as testing and basic treatment, are also available in Turkmenistan at local, American-standard hospitals. If you become seriously ill, you will be transported either to a medical facility in the region or to the United States.
Diversity and Cross-Cultural Issues
Main article: Diversity and cross-cultural issues in Turkmenistan
In Turkmenistan, as in other Peace Corps host countries, Volunteers' behavior, lifestyle, background, and beliefs are judged in a cultural context very different from their own. Certain personal perspectives or characteristics commonly accepted in the United States may be quite uncommon, unacceptable, or even repressed in Turkmenistan.
Outside of Turkmenistan's capital, residents of rural communities have had relatively little direct exposure to other cultures, races, religions, and lifestyles. What people view as typical American behavior or norms may be a misconception, such as the belief that all Americans are rich and have blond hair and blue eyes. The people of Turkmenistan are justly known for their generous hospitality to foreigners; however, members of the community in which you will live may display a range of reactions to cultural differences that you present.
To ease the transition and adapt to life in Turkmenistan, you may need to make some compromises in how you present yourself as an American and as an individual. For example, female trainees and Volunteers may not be able to exercise the independence available to them in the United States; political discussions need to be handled with great care; and some of your personal beliefs may best remain undisclosed. You will need to develop techniques and personal strategies for coping with these and other limitations. The Peace Corps staff will lead diversity and sensitivity discussions during your pre-service training and will be on call to provide support, but the challenge ultimately will be your own.
- Possible Issues for Female Volunteers
- Possible Issues for Volunteers of Color
- Possible Issues for Senior Volunteers
- Possible Issues for Gay, Lesbian, or Bisexual Volunteers
- Possible Religious Issues for Volunteers
- Possible Issues for Volunteers with Disabilities
Frequently Asked Questions
Main article: FAQs about Peace Corps in Turkmenistan
- How much luggage am I allowed to bring to Turkmenistan?
- What is the electric current in Turkmenistan?
- How much money should I bring?
- When can I take vacation and have people visit me?
- Will my belongings be covered by insurance?
- Do I need an international driver's license?
- What should I bring as gifts for Turkmen friends and my host family?
- Where will my site assignment be when I finish training and how isolated will I be?
- How can my family contact me in an emergency?
- Can I call home from Turkmenistan?
- Should I bring a cellular phone with me?
- Will there be e-mail and Internet access? Should I bring my computer?
Packing List
Main article: Packing list for Turkmenistan
This list has been compiled by Volunteers serving in Turkmenistan and is based on their experience. Use it as an informal guide in making your own list, bearing in mind that experience is individual. There is no perfect list! You obviously cannot bring everything we mention, so consider those items that make the most sense to you personally and professionally. You can always have things sent to you at the Peace Corps office (and unlike Volunteers in many Peace Corps countries, you will not be charged customs taxes). As you decide what to bring, keep in mind that you have a 100-pound weight limit on baggage. And remember, you can get almost everything you need in Turkmenistan.
- General Clothing
- For Men
- For Women
- Shoes
- Personal Hygiene and Toiletry Items
- Kitchen
- Miscellaneous
Peace Corps News
Current events relating to Peace Corps are also available by country of service or your home state
The following is automatic RSS feed of Peace Corps news for this country.
<rss title=on desc=off>http://news.google.com/news?hl=en&ned=us&scoring=n&q=%22peace+corps%22+%22turkmenistan%22&output=rss%7Ccharset=UTF-8%7Cshort%7Cdate=M d</rss>
( As of Friday December 9, 2016 )<rss title=off desc=off>http://peacecorpsjournals.com/rss/tx/blog/50.xml%7Ccharset=UTF-8%7Cshort%7Cmax=10</rss>
Country Fund
Contributions to the Turkmenistan Country Fund will support Volunteer and community projects that will take place in Cameroon. These projects include water and sanitation, agricultural development, and youth programs.
See also
- Volunteers who served in Turkmenistan
- Friends of Turkmenistan
- List of resources for Turkmenistan
- Pre-Departure Checklist
- Inspector General Reports
External links
- Peace Corps Journals - Turkmenistan
- Camel Spit Blog Online Newsletter by Friends of Turkmenistan, the Turkmenistan RPCV group


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FAQs about Peace Corps in Romania
|FAQs about Peace Corps
For information see Welcomebooks
- 1 How much luggage am I allowed to bring to Romania?
- 2 What is the electric current in Romania?
- 3 How much money should I bring?
- 4 When can I take vacation and have people visit me?
- 5 Will my belongings be covered by insurance?
- 6 Do I need an international driver's license?
- 7 What should I bring as gifts for Romanian friends and my host family?
- 8 Where will my site assignment be when I finish training and how isolated will I be?
- 9 How can my family contact me in an emergency?
- 10 Can I call home from Romania?
- 11 Should I bring a cellular phone with me?
- 12 Will there be e-mail and Internet access? Should I bring my computer?
How much luggage am I allowed to bring to Romania?
Most airlines have baggage size and weight limits and assess charges for transport of baggage that exceeds this allowance. The Peace Corps has its own size and weight limits and will not pay the cost of transport for baggage that exceeds these limits. The authorized baggage allowance is two checked pieces of luggage with combined dimensions of both pieces not to exceed 107 inches (length + width + height) and a carry-on bag with dimensions of no more than 45 inches. Checked baggage should not exceed 100 pounds total with a maximum weight allowance of 50 pounds for any one bag.
Peace Corps Volunteers are not allowed to take pets, weapons, explosives, radio transmitters (shortwave radios are permitted), automobiles, or motorcycles to their overseas assignments. Do not pack flammable materials or liquids such as lighter fluid, cleaning solvents, hair spray, or aerosol containers. This is an important safety precaution.
It is important to note that while volunteers should check with their airline, generally if it is necessary to bring more than allowed luggage, The volunteer can choose to pay for the overage out of their own funds.
What is the electric current in Romania?
The electric current is 220 volts, 50 hertz. The standard electrical outlet accommodates a round, two-prong plug (standard European). It is best to buy electrical current converters and plug adapters for electronics (hair dryers, radios, CD players) before you leave the United States. However, an abundance of European-made electronics that do not require converters and adapters are available for purchase in Romania.
How much money should I bring?
Volunteers are expected to live at the same level as the people in their community. They are given a settling-in allowance and a monthly living allowance, which should cover their expenses. Often Volunteers wish to bring additional money for vacation travel to other countries. Credit cards and traveler's checks are preferable to cash, though travelers checks are often difficult to cash. If you choose to bring extra money, bring the amount that will suit your own travel plans and needs. Bring only new bills in pristine condition if you plan on exchanging them for Romanian lei. Exchange bureaus usually will not change anything smaller than a $10 bill.
Cash machines are very common in even smaller cities, as bank branch offices spread throughout the country, and are the best way to deal with bringing 'money' with you, but only use machines at banks and be very mindful of protecting your PIN number. DO NOT let your credit/cash card out of your sight under any circumstances. Check with your bank to be certain your card will work in Romania and let them know you will be using it out of the country.
When can I take vacation and have people visit me?
Each Volunteer accrues two vacation days per month of service (excluding training). Leave may not be taken during training. International travel may not be undertaken during the first three months of service, or the last three months of service, except in conjunction with authorized emergency travel. Family and friends are welcome to visit you after pre-service training and the first three months of service as long as their stay does not interfere with your work. Extended stays at your site are not encouraged and may require permission from your country director. The Peace Corps is not able to provide your visitors with visa, medical, or travel assistance.
Will my belongings be covered by insurance?
The Peace Corps does not provide insurance coverage for personal effects; Volunteers are ultimately responsible for the safekeeping of their personal belongings. However, you can purchase personal property insurance before you leave. If you wish, you may contact your own insurance company; additionally, insurance application forms will be provided, and we encourage you to consider them carefully. Volunteers should not ship or take valuable items overseas. Jewelry, watches, radios, cameras, and expensive appliances are subject to loss, theft, and breakage, and in many places, satisfactory maintenance and repair services are not available.
Do I need an international driver's license?
Volunteers in Romania do not need to get an international driver's license because they are prohibited from operating privately owned motorized vehicles. Most urban travel is by tram, bus, or taxi. Rural travel ranges from trains, buses, and maxi-taxis to lots of walking.
What should I bring as gifts for Romanian friends and my host family?
This is not a requirement. A token of friendship is sufficient. Some gift suggestions include knickknacks for the house; pictures, books, or calendars of American scenes; souvenirs from your area; hard candies that will not melt or spoil; or photos to give away.
Where will my site assignment be when I finish training and how isolated will I be?
Peace Corps trainees are not assigned to individual sites until well into pre-service training. This gives Peace Corps staff the opportunity to assess each trainee's technical and language skills prior to assigning sites. Keep in mind that many factors influence the site selection process and that the Peace Corps cannot guarantee placement where you would ideally like to be. The most important factor is the match between your skills and knowledge and the needs of the community. Volunteers live in small to medium-size towns scattered all over Romania but usually are within one hour from another Volunteer. Some sites require a 12- to 14-hour train ride from Bucharest.
How can my family contact me in an emergency?
The Peace Corps' Office of Special Services provides assistance in handling emergencies affecting trainees and Volunteers or their families. Before leaving the United States, you should instruct your family to notify the Office of Special Services immediately if an emergency arises, such as a serious illness or death of a family member. During normal business hours, the number for the Office of Special Services is 800.424.8580, extension 1470. After normal business hours and on weekends and holidays, the Special Services duty officer can be reached at 202.638.2574. For nonemergency questions, your family can get information from your country desk staff at the Peace Corps by calling 800.424.8580; select option 2, then extension 2419 or 2420.
Can I call home from Romania?
All Volunteers have access to phones, either in their apartments, in post offices, or in the phone booths that are common throughout the country. The phones in post offices and phone booths accept prepaid phone cards (which are readily available for purchase in Romania). Many Volunteers purchase cellular phones locally and pay for service out of their living allowance. The best way to communicate with family and friends in the United States may be for them to call you. You will not have immediate access to phones upon your arrival in Romania, so do not promise family or friends that you will call as soon as you arrive. It may take several days before you have the time, access, and information necessary to successfully call home.
Should I bring a cellular phone with me?
Not unless it is a multiband GSM phone that accepts a SIM card. The most common U.S. cellular phones will not work in Romania.
However, a GSM tri- or quad-band phone that is 900/1800/1900 MHz compatible - or a quad-band phone that includes at least those ranges - and accepts a SIM card will work. Be certain the phone is "unlocked" by the service provider or that an unlock code is provided.
You may also be able to buy a 100-240V charger in the US that will fit your phone.
Will there be e-mail and Internet access? Should I bring my computer?
Some host organizations have Internet access, but Volunteers in smaller communities may have to travel to a nearby town to find an Internet cafe. Most Volunteers find laptop computers to be very useful for both personal and professional purposes, and a few have Internet access (including cable) at home. If you bring a computer, you will be responsible for insuring and maintaining the equipment. One can generally find what one needs for repairs and maintenance in larger towns with technology centers or universities.


text: Lovebirds are known for being playful, affectionate and inseparable. That's why we've chosen this charming planter—featuring a pair of ceramic lovebirds perched on top—for our enchanting pink rose plant! Whether displayed in the home or garden, it's a sweet gift to remind someone special just how happy you are together.


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CNJ staff
DURANT, Okla. — Lunden Azuara had 16 kills and Southeastern Oklahoma cruised to a 25-14, 25-17, 25-14 Lone Star Conference volleyball victory over Eastern New Mexico University Thursday night.
The Savage Storm (19-11, 5-5 LSC) dominated the first and third games against the Zias, opening a 9-1 lead in both sets.
ENMU (6-25, 0-10) took an 8-5 lead in the second game on kills by sophomore Veronica Valdez and senior Vanessa Wilcox and a Southeastern attack error. The Savage Storm responded with a 9-0 run, capped by a kill from Jordan Parks, to take the lead for good.
Senior Nicole Vanderploeg's ace and a combination block from Valdez and senior Megan Weitz pulled the Zias to 18-16, but the Savage Storm scored seven of the final eight points.
ENMU plays at East Central on Saturday, then closes its season at home next week against Tarleton State and Texas A&M-Kingsville.


text: Web bots jasmi posted:1/14/2011 2:49:50 AM I was watching Brad Metzler's Decoded tonight and they mentioned something called Web bots that supposedly were able to predict future events and stuff like that. I had not heard of this before today. Can anyone fill me in on this, or direct me to a website or sites that have info on this? Thanks in advance.jackstraw posted:1/14/2011 12:21:49 PM Just google web bot. Lots of stuff will come up.jasmi posted:1/15/2011 2:17:51 AM Thanks, will try that. Please log in or become a member to add a post.


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A man who mugged a stranger in New York more than 35 years ago has apologized to his victim -- on Facebook.
Michael Goodman, 53, was commenting on a Facebook post about a closed bagel shop when he recognized the name Claude Soffel, UPI reported.
Goodman said he mugged Soffel for a bus pass as a teenager in the late 1970s.
He was later arrested and served three months of community service, the New York Post reported.
"You may not remember this ... but a long, long time ago I walked up the steps of [the museum] one afternoon, trying to look like a tough guy," Goodman posted.
"I have never forgotten the incident or your name ... then here I am ... reading about my favorite bagel store in the world closing down, and [whose] name do I see but yours," he wrote.
"Finally I can say -- I'M VERY SORRY that you had to go through that crap that day long ago," Goodman wrote.
Soffel promptly responded:
"Clearly you're a 'bigger man' today," Soffel wrote in response to Goodman's comment. "Memory is a funny thing. I recognize your name now as well."
"Any man who draws a line for himself [and says] 'Today I step forward for myself, my family, and humanity' is a hero to me," Soffel wrote. "So let us now, jointly, put this in its proper place, behind us."
Goodman, who now lives in Hawaii with his 13-year-old son, told the Post he committed the crime to impress a classmate. It has haunted him ever since.


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Headlines (Campus Updates)
Communications, Public Affairs & Marketing
Your 'Roll up the Rim' tabs could help someone in need
Mar 7/14
For most people, a winning Roll up the Rim tab is a bonus. A free coffee, muffin or donut adds a small bright spot to the day thats easily forgotten. But to a homeless person, that little piece of cardboard can mean so much more.
With the latest edition of the Tim Horton's Roll up the Rim to Win contest in full swing, Laurier Development Officer Cec Joyal is once again be collecting winning tabs to distribute to homeless people in Kitchener-Waterloo, giving them an opportunity for a meal and a little time away from the harsh bite of winter.
They cant just sit in Tim Hortons and not order, but this way they can get off the street and get out of the cold, said Joyal. It also gives them some dignity. They can get a hot cup of coffee and some food in their bellies and they dont have to beg for money.
Joyal has volunteered with the Out of the Cold program which opens local churches to homeless people and working poor as a place to eat and sleep at St. Louis church since the initiative began in K-W 15 years ago. She says the most difficult part for the guests is having to leave the church in the morning and spend the rest of the day roaming the streets looking for warmth.
One day about seven years ago, Joyal rolled up a rim, won a free coffee and had a simple thought: I could give this to a homeless person. Then she thought, I wonder if I could really do something with this and start collecting them.
Since then, Joyal has received a huge response from Laurier, her friends and even elementary and high schools - including Lumen Christi and St. Peter in Milton, St. Andrews in Scarborough and St. Boniface in Zurich, ON - and helped hundreds of homeless people, collecting almost 600 tabs last year alone.
We may not see as many homeless people on the streets like we do in Toronto, but we certainly have them in K-W, said Joyal. I believe everybody has a good heart and inherently wants to help. This is a very easy way to do it.
Anyone wishing to donate their winning tabs can bring them to the drop box at International News on Lauriers Waterloo campus or Joyals office in Alumni Hall, either in person or through interoffice mail. On the Brantford campus, tabs can be sent to Alumni Relations and Development Officer Beth dela Rosa in the SC Johnson Building, room 102.
For further information, contact Cec Joyal at email@example.com or ext. 3864.About the Out of the Cold program
The K-W Out of the Cold program runs from November to April, rotating nightly between nine local churches, giving the homeless and working poor a meal and a warm place to sleep. The program is run by volunteers, including students from Conestoga Colleges Police Foundations and Community and Justice Services programs. For more information on the K-W Out of the Cold program, click here.
View all Communications, Public Affairs & Marketing news
View all Laurier news


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For the Mets fan oenophile–or dems dat drink wine…
Too late for the holidays, alas, but Pick Me Up Some Mets friend CrazyMetGirl shared with us her son Ryan's awesome X-mas gift: Jose Reyes Wine. It's called Caber Reyes. I'm guessing it's a medium bodied wine with notes of infield dirt and pine tar and a nose of stolen bases.
Further research brought me here, where I learned that these "Longball Cellars" bottles donate partial proceeds to the player's chosen charity.
The actual Caber Reyes reads as such: "Aromas of warm blackberry cobbler with currant, black plum, fresh
earth, herb, cedar and a hint of anise. Flavors of black cherry,
blackberry, plum, mocha, spice and mineral with rips, firm tannin on
the finish." Yup, sounds about right to me. Jose Reyes in a nutshell. A mocha spice firm tannin nutshell.
But perhaps you are more of a "Santana's Select" kind of person. This well-pitched Merlot "is intense–deep ruby purple. Aromas of ripe
plums, smoky berry fruits and spice. Juicy red currant flavors on the
entry, followed with rich, red cherry, black cherry and blackberry
flavors extending to the mid-palate. A long finish with spicy oak and
velvety fruit. Soft, lush and colorful!"
Or–and I do find this hilarious–perhaps you'd like something in a white. Why, then it's "Schneider Schardonnay" of course. A bit fruitier than our catcher, "this wine opens up with strong aromas of freshly cut green apple, melon
and pear. A bowl full of tropical fruit salad (pineapples, bananas,
mangos and papaya) is in there, as well as a hint of floral apple
Collect all three, support the players' charities, turn the empty bottles into vases, and gosh darn it, have a fun and boozy time doing it!
6 Comments
I could've used some of this during the final month of the season. Would've gone well with Keith's "mojitas".
Zoe, I've had all three (Schneider's Chardonnay being the third). The one that I've had the most of (probably five bottles, with another unopened one in the wine rack) is the "Santana's Select Merlot." IMHO, as merlots go, I've had better, but not much better. It's a "solid"-tasting merlot.
Also, as a continuation of my earlier post, Joe Janish (Mets Today) has a wine blog, and he'd have some input on the Longball Cellars wines.
Joe's one of my blog buddies–I didn't know he did a wine blog! I'll have to email him for his thoughts🙂
As you know, Tom Seaver now makes wine for a living. In early January, I was in Calistoga, California where his winery is located and I couldn't find it. His vineyard is only an acre and a half and he lives on it, so he is probably afraid of Mets fans beseiging him. Has anyone had any of Seaver's wine? I have heard that it is available, although not in stores. I have heard that it is a serious wine and that it's fairly expensive.
I've heard that Seaver's wine is under the "GTS" label. I'll go to one of my local "wine merchants" here and see if they've heard of it. When Seaver does something, he does it–there's no fooling around.


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Years ago, I attended a workshop with Ralph Milton, an author. Ralph is a gifted storyteller, in fact Ralph is a teller of warm, and often humorous, but always spiritual, stories. Though his roots are actually Mennonite, southern Manitoba Mennonite, and his original name was Ralph Milton Friesen, Ralph has spent most of his life active in the United Church.
Ralph's new book at the time was "Julian's Cell," a somewhat fictionalized story of a real person, Julian of Norwich, based on extensive research that Ralph had done.
Julian was a Roman Catholic woman who lived in Great Britain in the 14th century. Julian, as presented by Milton, offers powerful lessons on suffering and on hope.
From his research, Milton assumes that Julian began her adulthood, probably in her early teens, as a wife, and then as a mother. But these were very dark times, and plagues came and decimated the English population, taking up to one-third of the people of the village of Norwich, including, Milton suggests, Julian's husband and children. With no place else to go, no strength to look after herself, she was given refuge in an abbey. And over time, as Julian retreated into a life of solitary prayer to help her through her huge despair, she sensed a call to become an "anchorite."
For Julian, that meant being voluntarily locked into a small cell for the rest of her life. In fact, the bishop who presided at the "locking in" ceremony basically preached a funeral service over her. Julian's basic needs were looked after by a maid, but her role, as anchorite, was to pray, a minimum of four hours a day, asking God for visions, and then to use the wisdom gained through those visions to offer spiritual counsel to all who came to knock at her window. History shows that Julian spent the next 40 years doing just that.
How does a person cope with that painful history in a tiny stone cell? You and I might think of someone in our families or community who has had to face a loss of near that magnitude. If that person responded to that grief by permanently isolating themselves in a dark and dismal place, we would be very concerned. How was it possible to move from intense suffering to peace, without support, without community, without the hope of loved ones around her?
Yet, Julian survived. Not only did Julian survive, but the visions of God, and the interpretations of those visions, as recorded by her own hand, are still among the most hopeful, the most positive, the most love filled, the most insightful, and indeed the most radical, of all the people of God ever recorded.
This was in a time in history and the church when it was assumed that the horrendous suffering that was everywhere, the devastation of plagues, the incredible death rate among children, the awful violence, usually in the name of the church, it was assumed that all of this was the plan of God to punish a fallen race. That about the most God inspired act that one could do was to beat themselves into a bloody frenzy. That a faithful life could not be separated from a life of guilt.
Through her experience of suffering, through her isolated experience of God through prayer, Julian offered a totally different picture of God.
Listen to the words of Julian of Norwich.
Because of the endless love that God has for all humanity,
There is no difference between the soul of Christ, and the soul of the lowest person on the social ladder.
So we should rejoice that God lives in our soul,
And even more rejoice that our soul lives in God.
Our soul was created to be God's home.
I see no difference between our essential nature and the nature of God.
We are part of God, and God is part of us.
As Ralph Milton read pieces of Julian's writings to us, I sensed truth. Not because the words came from the mouth of a warm and favourite storyteller, not because the words were originally written by a Roman Catholic mystic, writing in a time when women had no voice, in fact it was questioned frequently whether they even had a soul. No, these words rang truth to me because they fit with truth that God has given me in other ways, through the experiences and stories of others, and through my own.
But equally powerfully came the sense that this gentle and profound wisdom would have been impossible to uncover, had Julian not experienced intense suffering. That her writing would have unfolded very differently if she had gone into her prayer times, confident that she was already well on her way to knowing God, understanding God, owning God. Suffering, a natural part of living, has the potential of wiping away our arrogance about God, and our need to control God. Suffering has a way of bringing us to a place where God is all that is left.
In these present days, the Christian church walks into the dark hours of Good Friday.


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A major benefit of enrolling in the University of Evansville's pre-professional program is students can tailor their education to their career goals. Students work closely with their advisors who are committed to mentorship. Because of this close relationship, advisors are able to write personal references based upon their students' strengths and accomplishments when it comes time for applying to professional schools. In fact, 100 percent of UE preprofessional students over the past nine years have been accepted into medical school.
To better prepare students for their academic and/or career journey after UE, faculty engage them in hands-on and project-based laboratory experiences, which build problem-solving skills. Students also have the opportunity to complete research on campus with a faculty member or as an independent project. These activities provide students with a balance of both personal and professional development to ensure their success.
Benefits for UE Preprofessional Health Students
- Engage in research with faculty who are experienced and passionate about the life sciences.
- Work in state-of-the-art facilities including well-equipped research laboratories.
- Earn money and gain experience by working as a UE lab assistant, supplemental instructor, or tutor.
- Work in close contact with your advisor, forming a meaningful relationship resulting in personalized references.
Baccalaureate to Doctor of Medicine Program
Professional Preparation
Over the past nine years, 100 percent of UE preprofessional students have been accepted into medical school.
Request More


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Fees on the pensions agenda again
The UK's pensions minister, Steve Webb, was quizzed in Parliament over his government's far-reaching reforms of the sector yesterday, with the fees charged by fund managers and advisers, as well as the consolidation of small schemes and savings pots, high on the agenda once more.
Webb gave evidence to the House of Commons' Work and Pensions Select Committee, which is investigating how the workplace pension reforms, which began automatically enrolling workers into the largest company schemes in October, are proceeding.
The minister said that a cap on charges - something threatened in the past - is still a possibility, but one that is probably receding. He explained: "In general, governments don't interfere in markets that are functioning well. Is pensions that sort of market? My sense is that at the top end, it is. There is fierce competition and the providers want large firms' business. I don't think a single auto-enrolment scheme has launched with charges over 1% of assets a year.
"The question is, as we go down the market, are small employers well-informed consumers who will shop around, or are they just going to get pounced on by predatory firms?
"We are absolutely prepared to use the charge-cap powers that we have - in fact we have extended them - but that would have to be based on evidence that people were signing up to schemes that were not good value for money, and we haven't got that yet."
Webb referred to an investigation announced last week by the Office of Fair Trading into the smaller end of the workplace pensions market. This review will report by August, and will form a key part of the government's thinking on the issue, he said.
The minister said current average charges on new-style defined-contribution pension schemes, which are increasingly becoming the standard, were between 0.71% and 0.95% a year all-in, including fund management and adminstration fees. He added that he expected this to fall as auto-enrolment rolls out.
Challenged by Conservative MP Graham Evans to say whether the industry's attitude to fees "shows what type of people we are dealing with here," Webb replied, "It's a cliche, but my sense is that the pensions industry is on a journey."
He continued: "The industry is moving in the right direction - sometimes kicking and screaming. The leadership is good; Otto Thorensen [chief executive of the Association of British Insurers, whose members provide many workplace pension schemes] is a breath of fresh air, and is having to drag the industry sometimes places that it did not want to go."
Webb also said that his plan for a "pot-follows-member" scheme, in which workers' savings follow them around from job to job and pension scheme to pension scheme, had stirred up a "hornet's nest" of industry opposition - as providers feared for the revenues they generate from back-books of business.
The session began with the committee's chair, Dame Anne Begg, asking whether Webb was confident that the new publicly-run pension scheme, the National Employment Savings Trust, will be able to serve the UK's small and medium employers as they are drawn into the reforms from 2015-8.
Nest operates with certain legal restrictions, intended to stop it cannibalising private pension providers' existing business. But the Select Committee has previously recommended removing these.
Webb said: "We are open to lifting the restrictions, but it has to be evidence-based". He referred again to the OFT's investigation, and said the government would probably make a decision later this year.