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Pastor Scott L. Harris
Grace Bible Church, NY
May 1, 2016
Expressing Worship: Voice, Hands & Feet
Selected Scriptures
Jesus told the Samaritan woman in John 4 that God is to be worshiped in spirit and in truth. Anything less than that is ignorant worship at best and may well be false worship. The tragedy is that too often our selfishness and pride result in us worshiping God according to our own designs instead of what He wants, and yet we still convince ourselves into thinking we are very spiritual by what we do. As we have seen in our past studies, God is very serious about those who worship Him and the way in which they do it. Through the prophet Isaiah, God rebuked the nation of Judah for their sacrifices which He rejected because their hearts were far away from Him. When King David tried to move the Ark of God to Jerusalem, God struck Uzzah dead for his irreverence in moving the Ark improperly. It is God's patience and longsuffering that has kept Him from striking many more down throughout the centuries and in the present for their irreverence and failure to worship God according to His directions.
This morning we come to several aspects of worship that I will state from the beginning make me somewhat uncomfortable because they are outside the conservative religious traditions in which I grew up. However, traditions may or may not match what the Lord asks of us. Our quest in worshiping the Lord God must always be to discover His will and follow it even if that is not in keeping with the traditions in which we grew up. That is why it is helpful to at times examine the worship of those in other traditions to see if there is a Biblical practice of which you are ignorant or have been neglecting.
It is with that in mind I listened to the tapes and examined the notes for a long series on worship taught some years ago by Jack Hayford of Church on the Way in Van Nuys, Calif. It is a church I am familiar with since I went to High School with his son, and it is a church that has been noted for their worship. It is always encouraging to hear someone else preach the same things you preach, and for the most part that was true as I listened to the tapes. There were a few things in which I found the Biblical foundations for some of their practices weak and therefore not compelling, but there we are also a few that were clearly backed up by Scripture and therefore compelling as proper worship of God. Again I must stress that those who want to truly worship God are on a quest to do it God's way even if it is new to them or strange from their own perspective.
The fundamental church movement, of which we are a part, has been very successful in preserving and proclaiming the foundational doctrines of the Christian faith. We have maintained such beliefs as the Scriptures as the Word of God; the humanity and deity of Jesus; His virgin birth, sinless life and substitutionary atonement, Jesus death, burial, resurrection, ascension and promise of return. We continue to believe and teach salvation from sin by God's grace alone through faith alone in the person and work of Jesus Christ alone, the priesthood of the believer, the promises of an eternal heaven for believers and an eternal hell for unbelievers. All these things are good and positive. However, a weakness that developed in the fundamental church has been the tendency to define itself more by what they are not than what they are. Our question should always be "what does the Bible say about it?" Once that question is answered, what other groups believe and do should really be of minor concern.
This morning we are going to take a look at what the Bible says about the use of our voice, hands and feet in the worship of our God. How does God want us to physically respond to Him? Though before we get to that, I want to first make a brief comment about private vs. congregational worship and the importance of a worship leader.
One of the things I appreciated about Hayford's series on worship was the distinction between public worship and private worship. When you gather with other people there must be a consideration for them which results in you restricting your freedoms as you seek to look out for their interests above your own even as we are commanded in Philippians 2:1-4. In addition, God is not a God of confusion and we know that He wants everything to be done properly and in an orderly manner as stated in 1 Corinthians 14, especially verses 33 & 40. This results in restrictions in corporate worship that do not exist in personal worship. This also means that the worship leader needs to direct the congregation in their response of worship, and the congregation needs to follow the directions of the worship leader instead of doing whatever they feel like doing at the moment.
How does God want us to use our voice in worship of Him? I am not referring here to using our voices to sing and proclaim His glory, for I already talked about that in previous weeks. (See: Music in Worship, Part 2 and Music in Worship, Part 1). We are to sing to the Lord (many Psalms), shout joyfully (Psalm 66:1 etc.) and even make a "loud noise" (Psalm 98:4 KJV). My specific question this morning is what vocal response should we have to the ministry of others? What should we say when God has touched our hearts through someone else or we agree with what they have said?
Having grown up in a Southern Baptist Church in the 1960's, I was used to hearing shouts of "amen" after a song or when the preacher made a good point. Later on I was in a church that was more Presbyterian in style in which the congregation remained silent during the service except for singing. On some missions trips I have been around people that will shout "Hallelujah," "Praise the Lord," or "Glory to God." What does God desire?
Amen. The word "Amen" means the same in Hebrew and Greek. When used at the beginning of a sentence it means "verily," or "truly." When used at the end of a sentence it means "so be it" and expresses agreement and commitment to what had been said. It is a common Biblical word being used 37 times in 23 verses in the Old Testament (NASB) and 129 times in 103 verses in the New Testament (NASB). Twelve of its occurrences in the Old Testament are in Deuteronomy 27 where the people publically pronounced their agreement with the warnings of the curses God would bring upon them if they disobeyed the Lord. It was used as a response of agreement of praise to the Lord in 1 Chronicles 16:36 as well as in Nehemiah 8:6; Psalm 41:13; 72:19; 89:52; and 106:48 in which the people are instructed to say, "Amen. Praise the Lord!"
In the New Testament, "Amen" is used most often in the sense of "verily" or "truly" to introduce a true statement (101 times in the Gospels), but it is also used numerous times as an expression of agreement and praise for a statement made. For example, in Romans 1:25 Paul refers to God as "the Creator, Who is blessed forever" and immediately adds "Amen." He does the same thing in 1 Timothy 1:17 saying, "Now to the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only God, [be] honor and glory forever and ever. Amen." Similar uses of Amen occur in Romans 9:5; 11:36; 16:27; Gal. 1:5; Eph. 3:21; Phil 4:20; 1 Tim. 6:16; 2 Tim. 4:18; Heb. 13:21; 1 Pet. 4:11; 5:11; 2 Pet. 3:18; Jude 25; Rev. 1:6. Amen is also used in the sense "so let it be" when a desire, prayer or a future hope is stated such as in Romans 15:33 in which Paul expresses his prayer "Now the God of peace be with you all. Amen." Amen is also used in this sense in Gal. 6:18; 1 Thess. 3:13; Rev. 1:7; 2:20.
Of more interest to us this morning is its usage in Corinthians, which reveals its usage in worship services, and in Revelation, which reveals its usage in Heaven. In 1 Corinthians 14 Paul is correcting their usage of the gift of tongues by stressing the need for interpretation and showing the superiority of prophecy. Starting in verse 13 "Therefore let one who speaks in a tongue pray that he may interpret. For if I pray in a tongue, my spirit prays, but my mind is unfruitful. What is [the outcome] then? I shall pray with the spirit and I shall pray with the mind also; I shall sing with the spirit and I shall sing with the mind also. Otherwise if you bless in the spirit [only,] how will the one who fills the place of the ungifted say the 'Amen' at your giving of thanks, since he does not know what you are saying."
What I want to stress from this passage this morning is that there was an expectation that the congregation would respond to the prayers of others with an "Amen." Paul is simply saying that if others do not know what you are talking about, they are shut out from being able to join in agreement with you by responding properly. It is proper for us to respond corporately with the "Amen."
In 2 Corinthians 1 Paul is discussing the truthfulness and faithfulness of his declaration of the gospel to them. In verse 20 he says, "For as many as may be the promises of God, in Him they are yes; wherefore also by Him is our Amen to the glory of God through us." They would pronounce an Amen at the declaration of the truth of God and this was done to the glory of God. The book of Revelation gives us examples of this in action. In Revelation 5 we find John still talking about the scene in Heaven and the glory and worship given to the Lamb who was worthy to open the seals. The chapter concludes in verse 14 stating, "And the four living creatures kept saying, "Amen." And the elders fell down and worshiped." The Amens were given in response to great truths spoken about the Lamb.
Revelation 7 describes a multitude in heaven from every nation and tribe standing before the throne and before the Lamb crying out "Salvation to our God who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb" (vs. 9-10), and the response of the angels, the four living creatures and the 24 elders was to fall on their faces before God saying in verse 12, "Amen, blessing and glory and wisdom and thanksgiving and honor and power and might, be to our God forever and ever. Amen" So again we find the Amen given in corporate worship of God at the declaration of truth about God. Revelation 19 describes a great multitude in heaven proclaiming the righteous actions of God in judging those who are in rebellion against Him in preparation for Christ's Second Coming. Here again we find the response of the 24 elders and the four living creatures is to fall down before God and proclaim, "Amen. Hallelujah!" (vs. 4).
The Biblical evidence is that it is appropriate and right to proclaim the Amen in public worship as a response to declarations of truth about God and His actions as well as agreement with the prayers, petitions and thanksgivings given to God. It is not a matter of your culture or traditions. It is simply the pattern set for us in the Scriptures and what occurs in heaven in the worship of our God. Other words are also used as responses of worship.
Hallelujah. As we have just seen in Revelation 19, the word "Hallelujah" is also used as a vocal response of worship (vs. 1,3,4 & 6). "Hallelujah," like "Amen," is another Hebrew word that is transliterated into other languages and so it means the same in Hebrew, Greek and English which is "Praise Yahweh." It is usually translated as "Praise the Lord" since the Jews would not pronounce out loud the covenant name of God, Yahweh, and instead would say, "Adoni," meaning "Lord." It is used 31 times in the Psalms alone. It is most often used as either an introduction in calling people to praise the Lord through the Psalm (Psalm 106, 111-113, 117, 135, 146-150) or as a conclusion to the Psalm in calling for people to respond with praise to the Lord (Psalm 104-106, 113, 115, 116, 135, 146-150).
When we remember that the Psalms were part of congregational worship whether sung by the Levites or by the whole assembly, we must conclude that it is still a proper part of worship in our own time. Whether you say "hallelujah," "alleluia," or "Praise the Lord," it is a fitting way to begin or conclude praise and worship of our God or to declare it in response to truth about God and His actions. Any other derivations of this such as "Praise God," "Glory to God," etc., would also be good. Again, we find it is not a matter of your culture or traditions. It is simply the pattern set for us in the Scriptures and what occurs in heaven in the worship of our God.
Since you now know that it is Biblically proper to verbally respond in these manners during congregational worship, perhaps you will feel a little more freedom to do so, though are some cautions. First, I give you fair warning that verbal responses to the preaching may encourage the preacher to keep preaching. Second, and more seriously, verbal response needs to be appropriate to what is being said, sung or done. It is said as part of your own worship of the Lord, and though it will also encourage others to join in that worship, it should be used with a purpose of calling attention to yourself. Third, it is to be related to something true about God or what He has done, therefore, be careful about using these terms to just vocalize our agreement or enjoyment. These are not proper responses to political, social or personal statements or actions in which it could even be blasphemous such as using the Hallelujah chorus in commercials.
I also do want to mention again as I did when we were examining music in worship that saying "Amen," "Hallelujah," "Praise the Lord," etc. is the proper response to what occurs here on the platform in ministry whether that be music, preaching, drama, etc. There is a place for applause, but all glory belongs to God, and applause places some of that glory on people instead. Please always remember that none of those who do something here on the platform are seeking to entertain you in any way. Our desire is to exalt our God and encourage you to do the same.
With that in mind, what is the proper use of our hands in worship of our God? The most obvious use is in serving God, but what about clapping and lifting them up?
Clapping. The first thing to note about clapping hands is that such action is not always positive. There are several words used to describe clapping in the Old Testament. There is not a reference to clapping in the New Testament. From the negative side there is saphaq which means to clap, smite or strike. It occurs in Job 27:23; 34:37 and Lamentations 2:15 as an action of mockery or derision. Macha means to "strike" or "clap." It is used metaphorically of the noise made by rivers (Psalm 98:8) and trees (Isaiah 55:12) in joy before the Lord. It is also used in Ezekiel 25 to describe the response of the nation of Ammon to bad things that happened to Israel. God declared he would judge them because of that. Taqa means to "thrust, blow, or clap." When used of clapping it is in the sense of joy. In Nahum 3:19 it is joy over the destruction of Nineveh. In Psalm 47:1 it is used more in the sense of the subject we are dealing with this morning in the use of hands in the worship of God. "(For the choir director. A Psalm of the sons of Korah.) O Clap your hands, all peoples; Shout to God with the voice of joy. 2 For the Lord Most High is to be feared, A great King over all the earth." The rest of the Psalm goes on to praise God for subduing His enemies and His reign over the nations. Hayford makes the quite reasonable conclusion that clapping is included as one of the practices involved in making a "joyful noise" to the Lord which would certainly include clapping with the music.
Though our tendency is to think of clapping hands as the applause of approval because of its usage in our society, the Biblical usage is much more of an expression of joy. Think of young children who clap their hands or jump up and down because they are happy or perhaps a sports minded adult whose team just won the championship. There are appropriate times for clapping, however, our society tends to over use applause to the point where it loses a lot of its meaning because it is no longer special, and that practice easily spills over into the church. Any clapping done in joy for what God has done should maintain the element that it is a special response and not common place. That is another reason to not use applause in the church in response to music or other performances. It is also interesting to note from Psalm 47 that all the people were directed to clap instead of it being a spontaneous response. Perhaps it is best to let the worship leader direct when clapping should be included along with our verbal praise.
Lifting Hands. What about lifting our hands? This is a subject that no doubt makes some of us uncomfortable, but again we must seek to understand what God says instead either simply following cultural or traditional practices or seeking to avoid identification of groups that you disagree with that have this practice. The Scriptures reveal several different uses or meanings to lifting up hands to the Lord.
The first usage is found in Genesis 14:22 when Abraham speaks to the king of Sodom about having "lifted up his hands to the Lord God" in the sense that he swore before God. The action of lifting up the hand or hands in taking an oath is used throughout the Old Testament and is translated as "swore," or "sworn" in the NASB. In Nehemiah 8:6 this is done while also saying, "Amen, Amen!" as declaration of commitment. God metaphorically uses the phrase for Himself in Deuteronomy 32:40 in speaking of His oath to the nation of Israel. You can think of this usage as being the same or similar to raising your hand and taking an oath of office or in court. The Angel in Revelation 10:5-6 did this as did the Angel in Daniel 12.
Another reason hands were lifted up was in petition to God. It was a physical act that accompanied prayer. We find this usage in Psalm 28:2, "Hear the voice of my supplications when I cry to Thee for help, When I lift up my hands toward Thy holy sanctuary." It is used the same way in Lamentations 2:19, "Arise, cry aloud in the night At the beginning of the night watches; Pour out your heart like water Before the presence of the Lord; Lift up your hands to Him For the life of your little ones Who are faint because of hunger At the head of every street." This is what Paul speaks of in 1 Timothy 2:8 saying, "Therefore I want the men in every place to pray, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and dissension." Paul writes about praying for people. While our practice of prayer tends to be closing our eyes and bowing our heads, a common practice then was lifting your hands and looking up. This is still a proper practice for prayer.
In conjunction with prayer, hands were also lifted to bestow blessings. In Luke 24:50 Jesus leads His disciples "out as far as Bethany, and He lifted up His hands and blessed them." In Psalm 63:4 we find the statement, "So I will bless Thee as long as I live; I will lift up my hands in Thy name." A similar statement is made in Psalm 134. It is still a proper practice to lift hands as a blessing.
Lifting hands was also done to show agreement and allegiance. This may be its usage in Psalm 119:48 "And I shall lift up my hands to Thy commandments, Which I love; And I will meditate on Thy statutes."
A final reason for lifting hands is in the worship of God as a sacrifice. David expressed it this way in Psalm 141:1-2, "O Lord, I call upon Thee; hasten to me! Give ear to my voice when I call to Thee! May my prayer be counted as incense before Thee; The lifting up of my hands as the evening offering." David was not able to go to the temple to offer a sacrifice, so he petitioned the Lord to accept the lifting up of his hands as a substitute. David did this in conjunction with his prayer. A similar thought may have been in Jeremiah' mind in Lamentations 3:41 as he surveyed the ruins of Jerusalem and the Temple and wrote, "We lift up our heart and hands Toward God in heaven" and then continues on with a prayer of confession and petition.
We must conclude that the lifting of hands for these various reasons is Biblical, but we must also caution that the practice is to be done with these reasons in mind, for the purpose will dictate the practice. In petitioning God or seeking to worship Him the hands are held with palms and eyes up much as a child does in reaching up to a parent with expectation. In swearing allegiance or acknowledging agreement the hand or hands are upright and palm facing out much as when swearing an oath. In bestowing a blessing the arm is outward with palm down symbolizing a covering or shelter for the one being blessed. There are erroneous ideas out there including the raised hands being some sort of antenna to receive God's power. There is also the mimicking of what occurs in secular concerts in which people lift their hands to the singers and sway back and forth to the rhythm of the music. That would not be in keeping with Biblical purposes nor the practices that would rise out of them.
Let me add one other caution to the practice. This goes back to what I said in the beginning about not being selfish in worship. Be courteous of those around you. Keep in mind that if you lift your hands high, you may be blocking the person behind you from being able to see the words on the screen. You may need to either keep your hands lower, or come early so you can sit in the back where you will not block the view of others. At the same time, those of you who might be bothered by having your view blocked need to sit up front.
The final form of expressing worship I want to talk about this morning is the use of your feet. Again, using your feet to go serve the Lord is the best worship you can do with them, particularly if it is in proclaiming the gospel as described in Romans 10:15. However, my particular interest in talking about feet this morning is in their use in dance.
What does the Bible say about dancing as part of the worship of God? First, it must be recognized that dancing is a proper act of worship. Psalm 149:3-4 specifically states, "Let them praise His name with dancing; Let them sing praises to Him with timbrel and lyre. 4 For the Lord takes pleasure in His people; He will beautify the afflicted ones with salvation." Psalm 150:4 adds "Praise Him with timbrel and dancing; Praise Him with stringed instruments and pipe." The question is what kind of dancing fulfills the instruction of these Psalms?
I hope we all recognize that there are many forms of dance that could not be used in the worship of God. Examples include the dancing of false worship around the golden calf in Exodus 32; the dancing of the Amalekites in 1 Samuel 30 which was accompanied by drinking in celebration of the spoils they had taken from David; and the dancing of Herodias' daughter which was to please Herod and his dinner guests (Mark 6:22). Dancing in false worship, in celebration of evil deeds or dance that is hedonistic would all be excluded. We can add to this any dance that is immodest or sensuous since those would be reflective of the flesh and not the Spirit (Galatians 5:19-24). That is the major problem for those that advocate the use of modern dance as part of worship. As a whole, they seem more influenced by Broadway than by a holy God. Praise the Lord for the exceptions.
Godly dancing is in contrast to worldly dancing. Dance that would be part of worship arises out of joy. I am sure most of us have seen little children start dancing when they are very happy. Psalm 30:11 expresses this joy saying of God, "Thou hast turned for me my mourning into dancing; Thou hast loosed my sackcloth and girded me with gladness." That joy may be over God Himself or something that He has done. In Exodus 15 Miriam led all the women with timbrels and dancing after God had destroyed the Egyptian army in the Red Sea. We find the women of Israel doing the same thing when Saul or David returned from battle victorious (1 Samuel 18). David danced before the Lord as the Ark of God was being returned to Jerusalem (2 Samuel 6:14). Dancing will be part of Israel's response of joy when it is restored in the Millennial kingdom (Jeremiah 31:13).
The Scriptures make it clear that dancing is a legitimate expression of worship, but as already pointed out, that does not mean every kind of dance is acceptable to God. In addition, there is also a timing factor. As Ecclesiastes 3:4 states, "there is a time to mourn, and there is a time to dance." There is a propriety in time and place that must be considered. I should also point out that most, but not all, of the dancing mentioned in Scripture is group dancing which is usually men with men and women with women as part of a celebration. If you have ever been to or seen the cultural dancing of middle Eastern groups at their weddings you will know what I am talking about. They are joyous celebrations without any indecency.
There has been a movement in some churches in which people in the congregation dance as they desire to praise music during the worship service. That is not in keeping with what the Scriptures present as praising the Lord with dancing. It is only another example of both the selfishness of people striving to worship the way they desire instead of according to God's directions and of worshiping individually within a congregation instead of corporately.
We are to express worship of God with all that we are and all that we have. Included is the use of our voice in proclaiming Hallelujah, Praise the Lord and pronouncing the Amen. Hands are used appropriately to make a joyful noise to the Lord and are lifted up to Him in prayer, affirmation, commitment, blessing and sacrifice. Feet move with joy in celebrating God and what He has done. We are to worship the Lord both corporately and personally. In a couple of weeks we will conclude this series by looking at how to make the worship of God part of your daily life.
Sermon Notes: Expressing Worship: Voice, Hands & Feet
Selected Scriptures
John 4:25 – God is Spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and ___________
The quest to worship God properly demands we discover __________and follow it regardless of our culture
Our question should always be "what does the Bible say about it?" And then __________what it says.
Private and public worship are distinct because corporate worship demands ____________of others (Phil. 2)
Corporate worship must also be done properly and in an _____________manner – 1 Corinthians 14:33, 40
We are to _______to the Lord, shout joyfully (Psalm 66:1), and even make a "loud noise" (Psalm 98:4 KJV)
Amen = "verily" or "truly" or at the end of a sentence: "so be it" expressing ___________and commitment
OT: Amen used 12 / 36 times in Deuteronomy 27 to express agreement with the Lord's _________of curses
Amen used as a response of agreement of ______to the Lord: 1 Chron. 16:36; Neh. 8:6; Ps. 41, 72, 89 & 106
NT: used 101 times in Gospels in sense of verily / _______. Used in sense of agreement throughout Epistles
Amen used as a response to corporate _______________in 1 Corinthians 14:13-16
Amen used as response to the declaration of _______________- 2 Corinthians 1:20; Revelation 5:14
Amen used as a response in direct ____________of God – Revelation 7: 9-10, 12; Revelation 19:4
It is Biblically proper to proclaim the Amen in _______worship – a response to prayer & declarations of truth
Hallelujah = alleluia = Praise the ___________- used 31 times in the Psalms alone
Hallelujah, alleluia, Praise the Lord, Praise God, Glory to God, etc. – all ___________in the worship of God
Caution: It is part of your worship of God & encouragement to others – not to call attention to ___________
These terms / phrases are to be related to something __________about God or what He had done
These terms / phrases are better than ___________because they focus on giving glory to God instead of men
saphaq = clap, smite or strike. An action of __________or derision (Job 27:23; 34:37 & Lamentations 2:15)
Macha = "strike" or "clap." Used ________________(Psalm 98:8; Isaiah 55:12) & negatively (Ezekiel 25)
Taqa = "thrust, blow, or clap. Used in Psalm 47:1 in sense or expression of ______________
There are ____________________times for clapping – a special response done in joy for what God has done
Lifting Hands – ___________is to control – not experience or avoiding identification with particular groups
Used as indication of _____________/ making an oath – Genesis 14:22; Nehemiah 8:6; Deut. 32:40; Rev. 10
Used in conjunction with ____________- Psalm 28:2; Lamentations 2:19; 1 Timothy 2:8
Used when bestowing a ______________- Psalm 63:4; Luke 24:50; Psalm 134:2
Used to show __________________and allegiance – Psalm 119:48
Used in the __________________of God as a sacrifice – Psalm 141:1-2; Lamentations 3:41
It is Biblically ______________to lift hands in worship, prayer and giving a blessing
Cautions: Don't fall prey to aberrant theologies or secular practices – and be ______________of others
Feet – dancing
Dancing can be a proper ____________of worship – Psalm 149:3-4; 150:4
__________________are: Dancing in false worship, in celebration of evil deeds or dance that is hedonistic
Dances of worship arise out of ____of what God has done: Psalm 30:11; Exodus 15, 1 Sam. 18; 2 Sam. 6:14
Cautions: _______________in time and place (Eccl. 3:4), no immodesty or indecency, considerate of others
It is Biblically proper for physical actions using voice, hands and feet to be used in the ____________________
Parents, you are responsible to apply God's Word to your children's lives. Here is some help. Young Children – draw a picture about something you hear during the sermon. Explain your picture(s) to your parents at lunch. Older Children – Do one or more of the following: 1) Write down all the verses mentioned in the sermon and look them up later. 2) List how many times references are made to "voice," "hands" or "feet." Talk with your parents about how you can express worship to God.
Questions to consider in discussing the sermon with others. How does God respond to those that try to worship Him in some way other than in spirit and in truth? What must control us in our efforts to worship God? Why? What distinctions are there between public and private worship? What must be considered in corporate worship? What does "Amen" mean? How is it used in the Old Testament? New Testament? How and when should it be used in a worship service? What does "Hallelujah" mean? How was it used in the Old Testament? New Testament? How and when should it be used in a worship service? What different ways is clapping used in the Bible? When could it be used in a worship service? Why is applause generally not appropriate in a worship service? What are the different uses / meanings of lifting hands in the Bible? How and when should hands be lifted in a worship service? What considerations should be made? Discuss what the Bible says about dancing. How and when should dancing be included in a worship service. What cautions should be taken to keep inappropriate dance out?
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So: Ebelskiver. Say it with me: "able-skeever" – yes!
These delightful little pastries are actually spherical Danish pancakes that have a filling in the middle. Ebelskiver means "apple slices" in Danish, and you will sometimes see it spelled "aebelskiver." As you might have guessed, apples are one of the traditional fillings that you will find inside an ebelskiver.

subset: commoncrawl


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Self care~ honoring ourselves, our journeys~sounds so basic and possible. Then we wake up days, weeks, months even years later and realize we never began. I am hoping to break that cycle. Self care is always on my list *Hi, my name is Renee and I am a list maker* and it always seems to find a home on the newest list, is always in my mind and never comes to fruition. I find no time for the long soak in the tub (maybe that will change once the claw foot is installed -who can say 'no' to a claw foot, right?), nor do I frequent salons for hair care or a mani/pedi. Every moment that I am awake is used for the 8:30-5:00, creative research, a project here and there along with a dishwasher empty/load, reading a few random pages of the 6 books I am sure to have around the house in varying stages of completion with a cursory glance to make sure we have socks for the next day arriving at the time of the evening where there can be no more; the end of the day.
I think I will start with slowing down, not just in action but in thought. *Hi, my name is Renee and I am an over-thinker*. I constantly feel like I don't manage my time well and while in contemplation of this, I discover I am about 5 hours in and my evening is behind me. More often than not, I am irritated by this waste of time and lack of production and that the list just seems to multiply. Maybe the key is to schedule in time to think , then make sure to move on, believing it will all get handled and finding a place in the middle of this to breathe. I can't let the chaos I see in my studio take control and detour me from my creative endeavors. I need to perceive my reality in a manner that will be conducive to this calmness I so desperately desire.
So, in the spirit of trying to honor, I am going to allow myself to Just Be. xo


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Syte Shirt has come up with a new Tee which can hold a smartphone either horizontally or vertically. This T-Shirt not only holds a smartphone, but also prevents it from dust and water.
This is the new generation Tee which could go viral. It must already be having a lot of fans and I am the newest fan. I am sure you'll love it too. FYI, this is a hand-made Tee which is developed in San Diego. This Tee can hold an iPhone or any other smartphone you own. The tee has got a zipper to avoid downfalls and theft.
People can still use the phone as it accepts the finger touch. So, you can name it as a tech-tee which can actually hold your smartphone and can protect it from damage.
[via engadget]


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Email: email@example.com
Phone: 866-716-3202
Our Virginia Tech tire cover features the newer Hokies logo and is crafted to fit spare tires up to 37 inches. Your vehicle is an extension of your personality, and nobody has more personality than dedicated Virginia Tech Hokies fans. So if you're ready to show your "Hokies" pride, slap this classy white vinyl Virginia Tech Hokies tire cover on your spare and put your enthusiasm on display.


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My Wife and I started Quartermileparts.com with the goal to provide low prices and great customer service to our fellow racers. We both are 2nd and 3rd generation racers. We have race cars in many different classes and also race on the salt flats. All the parts we sell are parts we use on our own race cars. We build all of our own motors and tune them from TFX Blown Hemi's to SBC and even Blown Fuel Ford Flatheads. We have a large brain trust to go to with hundreds of years of experience. Please don't hesitate to call us to ask any questions or advice if we can't answer your question correctly we can put you in contact with someone that can. We would like to thank all of our customers and be safe. Quarter Mile Parts is your #1 destination for all your quarter mile racing needs.


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Argiolas Costera Cannonau Sardinia Italy 2011 14% ABV 750ml
Product Code: 9870901011
Availability: 12
Cannonau is the Italian spelling of Grenache.
Made from Cannonau, Carignano, and Bovale Sardo grapes grown in the loose, calcareous soils of the Costera vineyard, this wine embodies the true idea of Sardinian terroir. It is effusive yet deep with a long finish and incredible drinkability. Its maturation period is balanced between barriques and cement vats in order to preserve the fresh, fruit-forward aromas while adding subtle complexity. Ruby-red in color, aromas of ripe black cherries and tree fruits complement undertones of pepper and licorice. On the palate, a full body and velvety tannins make for excellent texture and ageworthiness.
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How To Make Hawaiian Bread Pudding [LIVE]
You know what the hardest part of going on live TV is? Figuring out what to wear. When you're on TV, there's a long list of of wardrobe Do's and Don'ts. Like, for starters, no black – which happens to be[…] Continue reading


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Thomas C. Sullivan, Jr. Named Director of Corporate Development
Michelle Proia Named Associate General Counsel
MEDINA, Ohio, Feb. 3 /PRNewswire/ -- RPM International Inc. (NYSE: RPM) announced today the addition of two new members of the corporate office. Effective immediately, Thomas C. Sullivan, Jr. becomes director of corporate development and Michelle Proia joins the company as its associate general counsel.
Sullivan, 39, will assist the company in implementing its acquisition program. He will report to Stephen J. Knoop, vice president of corporate development. He has held positions of increasing responsibility during the 16 years he has been with RPM. Most recently, he oversaw the corporate development activities of the company's Tremco business. Prior to joining Tremco in 1998 as head of its Asia-Pacific activities, Sullivan was based for three years in Singapore, where he directed RPM's emerging Asian efforts through ESPAN and RPM Asia-Pacific. He began his career with the company in 1987 as a regional sales manager for the Republic Powdered Metals business.
Sullivan received a bachelor's degree from Miami University in 1986 and earned his master's degree in business administration from Case Western Reserve Weatherhead School of Management in Cleveland in 1994. He and his wife, Mary, reside in Bay Village with their three daughters. Sullivan is on the board of directors for West Side Catholic Center.
Proia, 32, will assist the company with the management of its legal affairs, as well as with risk management and environmental, health and safety matters. She will report to P. Kelly Tompkins, RPM's senior vice president, general counsel and secretary.
Proia comes to RPM from Wheeling-Pittsburgh Steel Corporation, one of the country's largest integrated steel manufacturers, where she handled a wide range of general corporate, commercial, intellectual property and litigation matters. A native of Rochester, New York, Proia graduated with honors from the University of Pittsburgh School of Law. She is a member of the New Jersey, Pennsylvania and West Virginia bars. Before joining Wheeling-Pittsburgh Steel, Proia was engaged in private practice of law in Pittsburgh.
RPM International Inc., a holding company, owns subsidiaries that are world leaders in specialty coatings serving both industrial and consumer markets. Industrial products include roofing systems, sealants, corrosion control coatings, flooring coatings and specialty chemicals. Consumer products are used by professionals and do-it-yourselfers for home, automotive and boat maintenance and by hobbyists. Industrial brands include Stonhard, Tremco, Carboline, Day-Glo, Euco and Dryvit. Consumer brands include Zinsser, Rust-Oleum, DAP, Varathane, Bondo and Testors.
SOURCE RPM International Inc.
CONTACT: Glenn R. Hasman, Vice President Finance and Communications of RPM, 330-273-8820/


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Michelle Obama To Host 'Women Of Soul' Concert At The White House
First Lady Michelle Obama will gather upcoming and legendary R&B singers to perform at her "Women of Soul: In Performance at the White House" concert on Thursday (Mar. 6), Billboard reports.
Songstresses like Aretha Franklin, Patti LaBelle, Ariana Grande, The Voice winner Tessanne Chin, Janelle Monáe and Melissa Etheridge are set to grace the stage.
The concert will stream live via the White House's website but will also air on PBS April 7. The event is being held to celebrate the great 'foremothers' of American music with songs exploring the struggles and achievements of women.
In association with the concert, the White House will host a workshop for youngsters to educate them about the women of soul.


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ATTO Technology – NEW 5 Year Extended Warranty Program for Switch and Storage Controllers
Published on Sep 14, 2015 in ATTO
ATTO have announced a NEW 5 Year Extended Warranty program for the ATTO Fibre Channel Switch and Storage Controller lines.
Some highlights include
- Customers can submit replacement/repair requests through ATTO's Technical Support team
- Approved RMA required prior to shipping defective product back to ATTO
- ATOO will provide confirmation of approval with 1-2 business days from confirmation of receipt of request
- Customer is responsible for return shipping costs as well as items lost or damaged in transit. Customer may be responsible for importation costs, brokerage fees, import duties and taxes
- Every effort will be made to ship replacements within 5-10 business days of confirmation of receipt of physical product with a valid support program
- Replacement condition will be in new or like new condition
- Replacement/repaired product will be shipped standard two day business. Delivery times may vary due to customs and regulations that are outside of ATTO's control
If you have purchased a unit within the year, you can still add on the extended warranty. Please do contact us if you have any questions or concerns, we are happy to help.


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Looking for an RV topic? Search the entire forum HERE
It's certainly sad that the park is so busy but everyone should see if bit they can. I believe there are other hikes away from the busy area, e.g. Wildcat Canyon.
Your video looks fab.
one of the better videos---nice and calm and still---absolutely enjoyed it...
Great video!
We have visited Zion for the last 20 years on a regular basis, and the last time they did not let vehicle traffic into the park. We need to park in a lot outside the gate and take a shuttle into Zion. At first I was a bit apprehensive, but we wanted to do Observation Point before the temperature became to hot. Consequently we entered the park at 6am, hopped on a shuttle to our destination and has the most wonderful experience we've experienced.Observation Point is a hike that is basically uphill 4 miles, then 4 miles back down, so it is a bit of a challenge for us old folks. However, because of the early hour, we were headed down from the Point while most people were coming up - it was already hot. I would definitely recommend the shuttle.
... I was shocked and seriously disappointed by the crowding in the park.
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Basketball Shoe
LeBron 16
Engineered for the strongest player on the court, the LeBron 16 Basketball Shoe delivers a powerful combination of support, impact cushioning and instant responsiveness. The tongue and lacing allow for easy entry and a custom fit, so you can lock in when needed and wear loose when you want.
- Colour Shown: White/Hyper Grape/Volt/Multi-Colour
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Engineered for the strongest player on the court, the LeBron 16 Basketball Shoe delivers a powerful combination of support, impact cushioning and instant responsiveness. The tongue and lacing allow for easy entry and a custom fit, so you can lock in when needed and wear loose when you want.
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A new tongue with built-in gusset widens the entry point for easy on and off, then collapses beneath the laces when you lock in. Pop the tongue and use the extra lace feeds to customise your off-court fit.
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Free standard delivery on orders over R 4,000.
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Some Exclusions Apply. Learn more about Nike.com delivery options and returns policy.
4 Stars
Amazing Basketball shoe
AndrewF577579240 - Apr 22, 2019
Played in them twice so far and I love them. They're an excellent shoe for flat/wide feet. They're durable and a great looking style! I could wear these shoes all day with the great ride it supports for my feet. Optional for a tighter fit with other holes for the laces. Unlike most Nike Basketball shoes, this she isn't narrow at all. My feet feel great after playing.
brett917 - Feb 21, 2019
These are my first Lebron shoe. Went with the "Oreo" colorway. When first trying them on I was pleasantly surprised how comfortable they are. Many basketball shoes are too narrow for me, but these are made for someone with a little wider feet. They also seem durable in the sense they don't get dirty too easily. I live in WI and being in winter there's snow and salt everywhere and I've worn them outside multiple times already and they don't seem to attract dirt and salt too much which is awesome! Please come out with some new colorways soon! Would definitely buy another pair!
Just okay
shutitclown - Jan 26, 2019
I'm comparing them to the 15's which were one of the most comfortable shoes I have ever worn. These are much lower barely a mid, they feel heavier, the toe box seems narrower and you still have dead space at the toe when going true to size. The cushion is not even close to the 15 this shoe is much stiffer so rolling your ankle is less likely. The 15 was a little tippy this one isn't. But to me it feels like a narrow brick.


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This week, each of your True Classics crew members will be sharing her own "movie memories," ranging from the classics to the not-so-much-but-still-wonderful films that we love. We're kicking things off today with Nikki's thoughts!
I don't remember the first film I ever saw in theaters, but knowing my family, I can almost guarantee that it was a Disney movie. I have vaguest recollection of seeing The Fox and the Hound on the big screen when I was very small, probably as part of a children's matinee or a re-release, so that may very well be my first, but I can't remember for sure. I do know that when I saw Aladdin in theaters, it was not the first time I had been to the movies, but it may well have been my sister's first trip. Visiting my dad in the summers growing up, my sister and I knew there would at least two outings: the annual trip to the Henry Doorly Zoo (if you ever happen to be in Omaha, NE with a little time on your hands, you absolutely must go) and at least one trip to the movies usually to see the latest Disney film. The most memorable of these trips would have to be going to see The Lion King about a month after my little brother was born, and him having to be taken out of the theater because it was too loud, but thankfully my sister and I got to stay to finish the movie. Also during those summers sometimes we would go down to the local two-screen movie theater in the small town my dad lived in to see the last runs of that summer's films or fun re-releases.
But above all the movie memories I have while growing up, my absolute favorite would have to be going to see Star Wars Episode II: Attack of the Clones. Let me start by explaining that my mom is the reason why I love the sci-fi genre, in particular Star Wars (I honestly cannot remember a time when I had not seen the original Star Wars movie). Anyway, Attack of the Clones came out at the very end of my junior year in high school, during the two weeks of AP exams. Several of my friends had gone to see it after finishing our AP US History exam the day the film came out, and others went to see it that weekend, but for whatever reason my family did not go that weekend. Instead, the afternoon after my AP Chemistry exam the next week, I was informed that I was being checked out of school early under the guise of going to take my driving test (I was a late driver, suffice it to say). Well, I met my mom in the office and we walked outside to find my mom's Durango–not the car that I was learning to drive in–parked out front. When I asked my mom what was up, she said to keep it quiet, but we were all going to see Star Wars instead. That's right. My mom checked me (and my younger siblings) out of school to go see Star Wars!! Never mind that it was definitely not the best movie of the franchise (though I am still partial to Yoda kicking serious butt). That is completely irrelevant. My mom, who very much believes that if the school doors are open and you do not have the plague you should therefore be at school, checked all three of her school-aged children out to go see Star Wars because it was that important.
That's what makes family films (whether they are by Disney, Pixar, Dreamworks, or whomever) and the summer blockbusters so important. They have a way bringing multiple generations together to just enjoy the company and the magic of the movies.
Nikki G. has been a member of the True Classics crew since 2010. A fourth-generation graduate of Mississippi University for Women, Nikki works as a systems analyst and lives in Alabama. You can learn more about Nikki by checking out her dedicated page on our site!


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About Hand & Foot Care
The skin of certain parts of your body, for example, your bust or your limbs, may need more nourishment compared to the rest. Clarins provides tender care to these specific parts of your body. Complete with natural plant extracts, these Clarins lotions, creams and gel moisturises, strengthens and tightens the skin around these areas, contributing to a more youthful look in overall.


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As midnight approached on Tuesday Hafez Hamad relaxed on a sofa outside his red-stone house chatting with family, enjoying the warmth of a Gaza summer's evening.
Twelve hours later, his body was brought back to the same spot in Beit Lahoun – wrapped in a shroud and borne on a stretcher – amid scenes of hysterical grieving as relatives and neighbours lamented his death and that of five others in a deadly missile strike.
Hamad, suspected of belonging to the Palestinian militant group Islamic Jihad, was killed instantly on when what is believed to have been an Israeli drone scored a direct hit where he and his family sat, relatives said.
While he had apparently been targeted for his affiliations, the strike also killed his wife, his mother two brothers, Ibrahim and Mahdi, and a 16-year-old niece.
The resulting scenes of devastation were still evident on Wednesday.
Part of the sofa where Mr Hamad sat had been blown away, the remainder matted with blood. A deep hole was left on the earth behind it, while a mosaic of uniformly-shaped circular pockmarks decorated the stonework of the family home.
"I was in the house and ran outside after hearing the explosion and saw his body lying in a pool of blood," said Hamad Hamad, 22, a cousin who added that it was the second attempt on his relative's life. A previous missile strike in the eight-day war with Israel in November 2012 had destroyed the home, which had subsequently been rebuilt.
It was the latest in a series of strikes on homes of known militants in the latest Israeli military offensive aimed at combating rocket fire and code-named Operation Protective Edge that have contributed to a rising toll of casualties.
The funeral of Hafez Hamad and his family (ROBERT TAIT)
Relatives have died or been wounded despite Israel's stated policy of making warning telephone calls or firing cautionary missile shots before hitting the targeted building. Some appear to have died either because they ignored the warnings or failed to heed them quickly enough.
In the case of the Hamad family, there was little sign of adequate notice having been given, according to relatives.
"It has never happened like this. They usually fire a warning rocket to let the people escape," said one female relative who did not give her name. "But this was sudden. This is a crime."
Even worse destruction with similar human consequences could be seen on Wednesday in northern Gaza's Zeitoun area after a missile struck the home of Mostafa Malaka, 28, a police officer in Hamas' security services.
The strike, at around 11am on Wednesday, killed Mr Malaka's wife, Hana, and three-year-old son Mohammed and reduced the family home to a heap of rubble and twisted metal, much of which had fallen into a massive crater caused by the force of the blast.
Clothing, bedding, school books and a water tank could be seen among the wreckage, which also included the remains of an uncle's chicken farm, where many of the birds lay dead or wounded.
Mr Malaka himself and two other children had been injured but survived, according to the uncle Majid Mostafa Malaka, 37.
"There were children around this house. They weren't firing rockets," said Mr Malaka, as three Israeli drones hovered overhead.
As such tales of death and destruction spread across the tiny coastal enclave, the streets of Gaza City and nearby towns were uncharacteristically quiet as many people chose to stay home rather than go out shopping for food to break the Ramadan fast.
The Malaka family home in Zeitoun (ROBERT TAIT)
Occasionally, the telltale smoke signs of rockets being fired towards Israel could be seen. The booming sound of explosions – some of it apparently from naval gunfire – was heard early in the evening.
At Gaza City's Shifa Hospital, there was an atmosphere approaching panic as many acutely ill patients were evacuated to make way for an expected deluge of casualties from the brewing conflict.
One child with severe burns was seen being wheeled through the hospital reception area.
In Metro Market, an upscale supermarket in the middle class Remel neighbourhood, shoppers gave the appearance of normality as they filled their trolleys.
Yet close inspection exposed it as illusory. Nour Abed Salam, 35, a bank employee, said she was using her credit card to stock up on foods in case of a long war.
"I am preparing the family in case things get worse and we have a long war," she said, adding that she had deliberately deceived her three young children about the frequent explosions from air raids and rocket launches. "I've told them that it's thunder and flares being fired but now it's happening so often, it's become hard to convince them."


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The Tea Party tsunami that just rolled through Delaware is reflected in a new CNN-TIME-Opinion Research poll of likely Nevada voters showing Republican and Tea Party favorite Sharon Angle running slightly ahead of Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid.
THE CNN-TIME-ORC survey of likely voters in Ohio reveals much broader advantages for Republicans in both the Senate and governor races, while Democratic Sen. Patty Murray is faring better in Washington, where she has a nine-point edge over Republican Dino Rossi.
Most striking is how closely fought the Nevada Senate race remains. The poll in that race, which pits the most powerful Democrat in the Senate against former state assembly member Angle shows that Angle is capturing 42% of likely voters polled to Reid's 41%, a statistical dead heat. Angle's standing against Reid comes despite the fact that there's an official Tea Party candidate on the ballot who might be expected to siphon away votes from her. But Scott Ashjian is backed by only 5% of those polled.
There is a striking gender difference among those polled in Nevada. Women go for Reid by a 51-33 margin, while men back Angle, 49-32. With both parties' bases mobilized and overwhelmingly backing their nominee, the critical ground will be fought over independent swing voters. Angle wins here, collecting 40% compared to Reid's 33%. Among self-described moderates, Reid holds sway, 57-23, while Angle has a big margin among conservatives, 72-13. Reid wins among those who attended college (44-40) as well as those making less than $50,000 a year (45-31). But Angle prevails among those with no college experience (44-37). They're evenly divided among voters making more than $50,000.
The Democrats face what appears to be deepening trouble on two fronts in Ohio. Republican Rob Portman, a former congressman from Cincinnati and a trade and budget official in George W. Bush's Administration, leads Democratic Lieut. Gov. Lee Fisher 52-41, among likely voters for Republican George Voinovich's Senate seat. There is, as in Nevada, a big gender gap among men polled they favor Portman, 61-35. Women favor Fisher, 47-44. Portman wins among rural, suburban, college-educated, not-college-educated the only educational/income group he loses to Fisher is among those making less than $50,000 a year, 49-46. Portman also does well among independents, who favor him 59-30, and Tea Party supporters, who give him a 91-6 edge.
Incumbent Democratic governor Ted Strickland lags GOP challenger and former congressman John Kasich 51-44. As in the Senate race, men favor the Republican, 57-39, while women tilt Democratic, 49-46.
Murray is the lone bright spot among Democrats in the poll, carrying a 53-44 lead over Republican challenger Rossi among likely voters. Men barely favor the Republican, 50-48, but women overwhelmingly support Murray, 58-37. They split the independent vote, with Murray holding a 47-46 edge over Rossi, a former state senator and twice unsuccessful gubernatorial candidate. Unfortunately for Murray's party, the recent conventional wisdom in political circles doesn't pay attention to her state. Since 2004, the oft-heard refrain is "As goes Ohio, so goes the nation." In the race to become Nevada's next governor, Reid's son, Rory, fares worse than his father: he is 27 points behind Republican Brian Sandoval. The senior Reid wins backing from 8% of self-identified Tea Party supporters; his son gets 9%.
All three polls were conducted via telephone by Opinion Research Corp. Sept. 10-14. In Nevada, 789 likely voters were queried; in Ohio, 820 likely voters; and in Washington, 906 likely voters. They share a margin of error of 3.5%.


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NPE2018 Show Directory
The NPE2018 Show Directory is the comprehensive onsite publication containing general show information, conference education information, and exhibitor listings and descriptions. Get in front of the audience by purchasing advertisements or upgrading your listing in the Show Directory.
To learn more, contact Jackie Dalzell (by email: email@example.com or by phone: +1.513.338.2185).
NPE2018 Show Daily Advertising
The NPE2018 Show Daily is published by the best in the business for the best in the business - you! Gardner Business Media will cover NPE2018 with the largest, most experienced editorial staff serving the plastics industry. With more than two decades of Show Daily production experience, you have a powerhouse publication team creating a Show Daily that caters to the technology information needs of the NPE2018 attendees. Gardner will distribute 5 issues of the NPE2018 Show Daily on-site Monday, May 7 - Friday, May 11, 2018, and will also provide pre- and post-show coverage using print, video and digital media.
To learn more, click here.
Printed Exhibitor Map of the Orange County Convention Center
As a sponsor, your ad will be displayed on maps distributed at various locations on site. Used often, these maps will guide exhibitors around the floor and to your exhibit.
To learn more, contact Jackie Dalzell (by email: firstname.lastname@example.com or by phone: +1.513.338.2185).
NPE Pre-Show Daily Advertising
Keep your exhibit and technolog top-of-mind with attendees by advertising in the NPE2018 Show Daily! Your ad in the NPE2018 Show Daily is the perfect venue for announcing new products and featuring your technology, for special promotions and for inviting attendees to visit your booth.


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Happy Valentine's Day!
If you follow us on Instagram, then you have seen the Love Letters Quilt I made last week.
At the end of this post you can learn how to make an envelope block of your very own.
so stay tuned......
New in the SHOP this week
Country Girls by Tasha Noel for Riley Blake Designs
We have the precuts for all your quilting needs, and yardage of ALL the prints in this collection.
The pinwheels....the sweet girls....and don't even get me started on how cute those darn ducks are!!!
We also received a fabulous load of Precuts from Moda.
Storybook by Kate & Birdie
Mirabelle by Fig Tree
And April Showers by Bonnie & Camille
Yardage for all three collections will be here in March.
And if you are in the quilting mood, grab one of those precuts, and one of these snazzy new patterns that are in the shop.
Do you feel the LOVE today with all this eye candy?
I know I do!
So, are you ready for a little Love Letter Block Tutorial?
You will Need:
(9) 10" Squares for the main part of the envelopes
(9) 7" Squares for the inside of the envelope
(9) 5.5" White squares for the top sides (or whatever color your sashing will be)
About 1 yard for sashing, depending on how wide you make your strips, and 3/4" for the border strips.
1. First, take your 10" square for the main piece of the envelope and trim 3/4" off the side and bottom of the 10" square. Save those strips you cut off.
2. Now, cut that square in half, diagonally.
3. Grab the 7" square you want to go with it and set it up like below.
4. Now, flip one bottom triangle over like this, leaving a 1/4" hanging over the side. That way when you sew it together, it will lay even along the side. Sew right sides together down that side of the 7" square.
5. Press that seam down, and then fold your other 10" piece onto the side, leaving 1/4" hanging over the top again, and along the bottom this time too.
6. Sew right sides together down that long piece of the triangle. Press the seam and it should look like this.
Your envelope should have an extra triangle flapping along the bottom on the back, and little ones remaining from the strips, just cut them off.
8. Now, take one of your white 5.5" squares and cut it in half diagonally.
9. Lay it along one top side like this, leaving 1/4" hanging off again.
10. Sew it on, right sides together, then press. Repeat for the other side. You will have extra hanging, just trim it off and make it square and a perfect rectangle.
Each block is about 13.5"x9.5"
Then just lay them how you want to. I originally had 4 rows of 3, and then decided to take a row off. I sure hope you agree with my decision :)
Feel free to add as much or as little sashing as you wish. I used 3.5" strips, and sewed them on with a 1/4" seam allowance. I used 4.5" strips for the red border.
And then your done! Your love letters are complete.
I can't wait to get mine back from the quilter. Even though Valentine's Day will be over, I think I will leave it out and enjoy it for a couple of days.
♥ Have a wonderful Valentine's Day! ♥


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Alabama's Eddie Lacy runs for a touchdown in the Crimson Tide's 32-28 victory over Georgia in the SEC championship game Saturday. Lacy rushed for 181 yards and two touchdowns.
(Photo by Jamie Martin / The Associated Press)
Atlanta -- Eddie Lacy has toiled in the shadow of Alabama running backs Mark Ingram and Trent Richardson the past two seasons, but Saturday was his chance to shine. Lacy was front and center with a career-high 181 yards rushing and two touchdowns on 20 carries in the Crimson Tide's 32-28 victory against Georgia in the SEC championship game.
It was the third-highest rushing total in SEC championship game history, surpassed only by LSU's Justin Vincent (201) in 2003 and Tennessee's Gerald Riggs (182) in 2004.
"He was pretty relentless the way he was competing in the game," Alabama Coach Nick Saban said. "Very physical runner and made it difficult for them to tackle him; made it difficult for the defensive backs to tackle them. Our offensive line does a good job of making some of those holes but Eddie did a very good job of finishing those runs and being very physical as a player."
Lacy, who is from the New Orleans area by way of Geismar, La., is only the second running back -- Vincent is the other -- to win the honor. He was recruited by LSU but the Tigers backed off because of concerns about Lacy getting eligible, which he was able to do at Alabama.
He scored Alabama's first touchdown on a 41-yard run and added a 1-yarder later in the game. After playing the early part of the game in a three-wide receiver set, Alabama went to a two-tight end formation and began hammering at the Georgia defense with Lacy and T.J. Yeldon, who had 153 yards on 25 carries.
Lacy sparked a 74-yard, seven-play scoring drive, all on the ground, with consecutive carries of 32, 15 and 14 yards on the first three plays.
"Sitting behind them you have to know to be poised and that things are not always going to go right all the time, but we are in a position to make plays and get the momentum on our side," Lacy said. "Our offensive line opened the holes and me and T.J. were able to get big gains."
FAKE PUNT NIGHT: Fake punts were all the rage as Alabama and Georgia each tried one. Alabama's was nullified by a delay of game penalty. Vinnie Sunseri picked up the first down on fourth-and-1 when he took the punt snap and ran off the left side but the play was wiped out when the play clock ran out and Alabama punted the ball away.
Georgia used its trick play shortly afterward. Tight end Arthur Lynch took the snap and lofted a pass over the Alabama defense to cornerback Sanders Commings to complete a 16-yard play. Two plays later, Georgia scored its first touchdown on a 19-yard pass from Aaron Murray to Jay Rome.
Georgia Coach Mark Richt said the Bulldogs have been working on the play for a month and were waiting to use it against a punt-safe defensive formation, when the opposition leaves its defense on the field.
"Usually that's a deterrent to a fake punt, but sometimes you never expect a fake there," Richt said. "But there was an alignment there where we thought we could hit the seam and we did."
VOTE FOR GEORGIA: Saban spoke up for Georgia, which could slide down the bowl charts despite an 11-2 record and an East Division Championship. In 2005 LSU slid for losing the SEC Championship Game to playing in the Chick Fil A Bowl in the same stadium four weeks later.
"I think it's a crying shame if Georgia doesn't go to a BCS bowl," Saban said. "They played a tremendous game out there. I watch teams that are 7-5 that are talking about they might go to a BCS game because they won their championship? Something's not right here."


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The Murrell family serves in the Philippines and have concentrated their efforts on teaching and training the native Filipino churches to become self-sustaining. Barry and Shari Murrell moved to Cebu City and raised their family there while conducting Bible studies on an ongoing basis at their headquarters in Cebu City, along with other outreaches. While Barry and Shari have retired, their adult children now serve in the church there. Having mostly grown up in the mission field with their parents, all four of their children are dedicated to the Lord. Two are married–Rachel and Clint Robinstein and John and Gina Murrell. Their two unmarried children–Sara and Amy–also devote time to the evangelistic outreach, the Bible Study Center, which has been active since 1985. Our church has provided support for the Murrells for over ten years.
For more information about this work, click here.


text: I am Vikas from Bangalore; I am 20 years old only. My real uncle has done vashikaran on me. I got to sick poorly but my all medical reports were normal that's why my doctor was also in confusion he was unable to take any decision. Then my mother told to my father for getting checked my health by a black magic specialist then his friend tell us about famous Baba Ji. He took my detail and replied to my father that I can die by Black Magic. Then Baba Ji did cure of me from hundred miles distance and now I am alive just because of Baba Ji I don't have words to say Thanks.


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It's a testament to how strong Ronaldinho's legacy is that he still finds himself adored by footballing neutrals all over Europe.
The Brazilian maestro's spells at Paris Saint-Germain and AC Milan fell either side of an incredible five-season tenure with Barcelona, in which he enjoyed an era of personal dominance reminiscent of the likes of Pele and Diego Maradona. With a trademark grin on his face Ronaldinho single-handedly conquered Europe with his sparkling influence and unparalleled ability on the ball.
The Ronaldinho effect
Perhaps the most likeable thing about the forward's regular masterclasses though, and what's endeared him to virtually every neutral football fan in the world, is the fact that he oozed pure passion for the game with every kick of the ball.
In many ways Ronaldinho was a throw-back to heroes of decades gone by; one who inspired others with his feats on the pitch and yet retained an aura of normality as he went about his business. He was classy, unbelievably talented and as unconventional as you can be possibly be if you're the best footballer on the planet.
Comparisons to current day
When he's compared to the current pair fighting it out for that crown, there's more than just a hint of difference. Of course I'm referring to Ronaldinho's former protege, and the man who managed the impossible task of replacing him at Barcelona; Lionel Messi, and his eternal rival; Cristiano Ronaldo.
Ronaldinho's move to Milan in 2008 signalled the end of his reign as the undisputed king-pin of world football, and in his place rose Messi and Ronaldo, both vying to pick up the mantle. Yet despite the millions of fans who adore them and fawn over their respective record-breaking feats, neither man will ever be as popular as the Brazilian.
The main problem surrounding the Messi and Ronaldo clash, with regards to their popularity on the world stage, and albeit one that neither can help, is the fact that they split opinion almost down the middle. Half the planet find Ronaldo's arrogance intolerable, whilst half the planet celebrate his awe-inspiring attributes. Much in the same way there's just as many people who play down Messi's claim to being the greatest ever as there are people who endorse it.
Related articles
- Ronaldinho provides amazing assist playing for Queretaro
- Brazil should have taken Ronaldinho to World Cup
- Ronaldinho linked with surprise QPR move
Loveable rogue
Ronaldinho had no such qualms during his time on the throne. The main reason? He played with a carefree attitude that even rival fans found impossible to lambast.
There was a barely a minute on the pitch when the 34-year-old didn't exude confidence and brilliance in equal measures, and he did it all with an effortless mantra that was infectious. He was a far cry from the superstars currently cut from the same cloth.
Ronaldo and Messi maintain their pristine reputations through excellent athleticism, acute professionalism and the myth that whichever one can prove themselves the better of the two, will go down as history's best ever.
In contrast Ronaldinho was famous for his wild nights out, appearances drunk on the Copacabana beach in his native country and appearances in rap videos. He was reprimanded more than once by Barcelona for his behaviour off of the pitch and yet was still able to produce performances that stole the show week in, week out.
Take a look at the recent sporting headlines and you'll find he still makes frequent appearances in the media. Whether it be compilations of his eyebrow-raising contributions to Mexico's elite league, where he is currently playing with Liga MX side Queretaro, or highlights of a very different nature, he always finds someway to get his name back into circulation.
Ronaldinho now
The latest number to be found involves Ronaldinho taking the time to interact with a pitch invader. Rather than take the conventional route of avoiding contact or waiting for the stewards to bundle him off the field of play the veteran forward signed a shirt for said invader.
It's this cheeky approach to virtually everything that allowed rival fans to feel just as affectionate towards him as his own supporters. Take his performance in the El Classico of November 2005, a match in which two goals helped Barca on the way to a 3-0 victory over Madrid on their home turf.
Upon doing so Ronaldinho became just the second Barca star ever to receive a standing ovation at the Santiago Bernabeu. Maradona was the first.
You get the sense that when Ronaldinho played during his peak years he wasn't nearly so carefully managed as the likes of Ronaldo and Messi. His career wasn't nearly as perfectly controlled and as a result fans enjoyed the unpredictable nature.
Missed opportunies
That's why it's a crying shame he never graced the Premier League. Though La Liga was the arena in which he displayed his utmost prowess as a champion, the home of football would have welcomed a player of Ronaldinho's rapport and popularity with open arms.
He may not have been the ideal role model, nor the model professional most top athletes have to be. In being who he was though, and conducting himself in a manner which promised only to suit himself, he cemented a legacy which will ensure he is remembered as one of the best of all time, regardless of who has emerged, who might yet emerge, in his aftermath.


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This card is in being entered in the challenge at Global Design Projest found HERE. The theme is animals/pets.
STAMPS: Lawn Fawn Critters in the Artic, Lawn Fawn Dad and Me, Digital stamp, SU It's Your Birthday
INK: Memento Black, Various Copics markers
PAPER: Yoyo Yellow, Only Orange, Neenah Solar White, Basic Black, lime green cardstock from my "stash", Gabby's favorite wrapping paper


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Some interesting news once again from our friends over at HTC, as has been reported HTC just released the source code for two of their most talked about phones, the HTC desire S and the Sensation XL both international models ofcourse, this is great news for all those "hacker" developers out there looking for new and exiting ways to cook up new code,
By that we mean we should now see an influx of coders cooking up new ROM's and uploading them at XDA developers! Since Ice Cream Sandwich seems to be the popular thing this days when it comes to aftermaket ROMS, it should be exciting to see what will come out at the end. If you are a developer and want to get your hands on the source code we've provide then link to do so below. I hope we see some cool stuff come out
Source: HTC Developer Center Via: Android Central


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Nation & World
Who's fixated on Facebook? Addicted to the smartphone? It's not who you think
Don't blame millennials for the national Facebook fixation. Or society's growing phone addiction.
The generation most obsessed by electronic BFFs are the middle-aged, according to a report by the media-analysis company Nielsen. Generation X members also spend more time on social media pages and consume more media overall.
Gen Xers, those between the age of 35 to 49, spend nearly seven hours a week on social media. Millennials (18 to 34 year olds), who come in second, spend just over six hours a week. In contrast, the older group of people 50 and over, baby boomers and their parents, spend just four hours a week or so e-socializing.
Generation X members also spend almost 32 hours a week toggling between all media, compared to about 27 hours for millennials and about 20 hours for the 50 and older set. And it's mostly women who do this.
"They're female," writes Sean Casey, president of Nielsen Social on the company website, and "25 percent of their time online is spent on social media (vs.19 percent of males), and they reach across cultures."
What's more, they're media multi-taskers. "They're likely to be on Facebook on Sundays via smartphone, while watching prime time," Casey added.
This media consumption is about more than sharing selfies, however. The ubiquity of the smart phone and the accessibility of social media, what Nielsen calls the new megaphone, has revolutionized the way people communicate about a variety of topics.
"It has, literally, given those with just a voice the power to speak to the world and has provided consumers with a platform to break news, start dialogues and share views about content," concludes another Nielsen page.


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From Wikipedia"
The VB became the main production version of the Mark Vs. Along with the new Merlin 45 series the B wing was fitted as standard. As production progressed changes were incorporated, some of which became standard on all later Spitfires. Production started with several Mk IBs which were converted to Mk VBs by Supermarine. Starting in early 1941 the round section exhaust stacks were changed to a "fishtail" type, marginally increasing exhaust thrust. Some late production VBs and VCs were fitted with six shorter exhaust stacks per side, similar to those of Spitfire IXs and Seafire IIIs; this was originally stipulated as applying specifically to VB(trop)s. After some initial problems with the original Mk I size oil coolers, a bigger oil cooler was fitted under the port wing; this could be recognised by a deeper housing with a circular entry. From mid-1941 alloy covered ailerons became a universal fitting.
Different propeller types were fitted, according to where the Spitfire V was built: Supermarine and Westland manufactured VBs and VCs used 10 ft 9 in (3.28 m) diameter, 3 bladed de Havilland constant speed units, with narrow metal blades, while Castle Bromwich manufactured VBs and VCs were fitted with a wide bladed Rotol constant speed propeller of either 10 ft 9 in (3.28 m) diameter, with metal blades, or (on late production Spitfires) 10 ft 3 in (3.12 m) diameter, with broader, "Jablo" (compressed wood) blades. The Rotol spinners were longer and more pointed than the de Havilland leading to a 3.5 in (8.9 cm) increase in overall length. The Rotol propellers allowed a modest speed increase over 20,000 ft (6,100 m) and an increase in the service ceiling. A large number of Spitfire VBs were fitted with "gun heater intensifier" systems on the exhaust stacks. These piped additional heated air into the gun bays. There was a short tubular intake on the front of the first stack and a narrow pipe led into the engine cowling from the rear exhaust.
The VB series were the first Spitfires able to carry a range of specially designed "slipper" drop tanks which were fitted underneath the wing centre-section. Small hooks were fitted, just forward of the inboard flaps: when the tank was released these hooks caught the trailing edge of the tank, swinging it clear of the fuselage.
With the advent of the superb Focke Wulf Fw 190 in August 1941 the Spitfire was for the first time truly outclassed, hastening the development of the "interim" Mk IX. In an effort to counter this threat, especially at lower altitudes, the VB was the first production version of the Spitfire to use "clipped" wingtips as an option, reducing the wingspan to 32 ft 2 in (9.8 m).The clipped wings increased the roll rate and airspeed at lower altitudes. Several different versions of the Merlin 45/50 family were used, including the Merlin 45M which had a smaller "cropped" supercharger impeller and boost increased to +18 lb. This engine produced 1,585 hp (1,182 kW) at 2,750 ft (838 m), increasing the L.F VB's maximum rate of climb to 4720 ft/min (21.6 m/s) at 2,000 ft (610 m).


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Price: [price_with_discount]
In a classic wide-leg palazzo fit, these trousers are a go-to piece for effortless summer styling. With a soft and flowing jersey fabric and elasticated waist, they are versatile and easy to wear for any occasion. Pair them with a simple vest top and sandals for a cool casual look, or smarten them up with a white shirt and heels. Note: Despite every effort to accurately depict each product's color, actual colors may vary due to monitor and/or video card differences, subtle variations in tone may not be fully revealedAuthentic & Original Only From WearAll
Length 108cm
Waist is elasticated
Wide leg palazzo fitting
Avaliable in a range of colours to suit any wardrobe


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Date: 3/27/2017 - 9/30/2018
Type: RFPs / RFQs
LA CES approved?: No
Location(s): Massachusetts
Description: Regreen Springfield, Inc., a 501(c)3 non-profit organization is seeking a proposal for programming related to the upcoming Citizen Science Initiative and the Community Tree Steward Project that will be undertaken beginning in April 2017 in Springfield, Massachusetts.As a component of the National Disaster Resilience Competition's Community Engagement component on Climate Change and the Environment, ReGreen Springfield will undertake two programs that engage the community in environmental work. These programs educate the community about the impacts of climate change while providing volunteer assistance that enhances the capacity to care for trees and collect data regarding changing environmental conditions.The Community Tree Steward Program will recruit, train, and engage volunteer community residents in all aspects of tree planting, care, and stewardship of trees in Springfield's low-income neighborhoods.The Community-Based Citizen Science Initiative will engage neighborhood residents, youth, students, and others in gathering scientific data related to weather, air and water quality, ecosystem services, and sustainability. The project will use software and protocols developed by the U.S. Forest Service and will enhance that agency's latest urban research projects. The proposed budget for the work is in the range of $140,000-200,000. The solicitation for qualified proposals to carry out educational sessions for community residents is due on March 27, 2017, by 5:00 p.m. (Eastern).


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The Great Bay Discovery Center announces its children's programs for this winter. Call the center at 778-0015 to register for the programs and for more information. Space is limited to 12 participants per program.
The Great Bay Discovery Center announces its children's programs for this winter. Call the center at 778-0015 to register for the programs and for more information. Space is limited to 12 participants per program. The programs are:
Kitten Knitten' — This program for kids 5 to 11 years old is Feb. 7 from 9:45 a.m. to noon. Learn about "wild cats" that call N.H. home. The SPCA will give a presentation on keeping your family pets safe and warm during the winter months. Learn to knit and begin a small warm blanket that will be donated to the SPCA's cats and kittens. Make and take home your own decorated knitting needles. Bring a lunch. Cost is $10 for GBS members and $12 for non-members.
Trekking for Tracks — This program for kids 7 to 11 years old is Feb. 24, 25, 26 and 27 from 9:45 a.m. to noon. (Same program repeats every day). Get out on the salt marsh and woods on snow shoes and make a craft to take home. Pizza lunch will be provided. $12 for GBS members and $15 for non-members.
Surviving and Thriving in Winter Overnight — This program for ages 10 to 13 is March 6 and 7 from 4:30 p.m. to 9 a.m. How do animals survive in the winter when everything is covered with a blanket of snow and ice? We will begin with a live animal presentation by the Center for Wildlife on winter adaptations. Activities and games and dinner will be followed by heading out to the birch bark-covered wigwam for a night in the woods. Wake up in the morning to a hot breakfast outdoors. Cost is $25 for GBS members and $30 for non-members.
Syrup on Snow — This programs for ages 7 to 11 is March 21 from 9:45 a.m. to noon. Join us for an afternoon of maple sugaring and learn how to tap trees. $10 for GBS members and $12 for non-members.
The Great Bay Youth Orchestra will be holding auditions Wednesday, Feb. 4, at the Cooperative Middle School in Stratham. The schedule will be as follows: 4 to 4:30 p.m., returning String Orchestra members wishing to audition to move up to Youth Symphony; 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. will be for new student auditions.
For audition requirements, and to learn more about the GBYO, visit www.greatbayyouthorchestra.org. Questions? E-mail firstname.lastname@example.com
Rehearsals are at the Cooperative Middle School, 100 Academic Way, Stratham, Wednesdays from 5 to 6:30 p.m beginning Feb. 11.


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The Liberal Canadian Prime Minister has just delivered an eloquent, patriotic concession speech. Current results (including Ridings where results are not final) is Conservatives 124; Liberals 103; Bloq Quebecois 51; New Democratic Party 29; Independent 1. This will lead to the Governor-General of Canada asking Conservative party leader Stephen Harper to form a minority government.
As the results solidified, television commentators speculated that the Liberals might try to hold on to power by forming a minority coalition with the NDP. Paul Martin's concession speech, however, rejected this backdoor attempt to cling to power. Although the Liberal campaign was extraordinarily ugly by Canadian standards (the low point being a quickly-withdrawn January 12 ad warning that Stephen Harper would put the military on the streets of Canadian cities), Martin's concession speech was statesmanlike, dignified, and constructive.
In Parliament, the Conservatives and NDP will be able to team up to pass a variety of anti-corruption measures. Enactment of other items on the Conservative agenda (such as adding property rights to the Charter of Rights and Freedoms, or dismantling the long gun registry and spending the savings on more police) is uncertain.
Although the Liberals lost, they did better than polls had indicated. Regionally, the results are: In Atlantic Canada, a late Liberal surge maintained the status quo, with only small Liberal losses. In Quebec, the Conservatives won nearly a third of the vote, and handily displaced the Liberals as the major federal party in Quebec. In Ontario, the Conservatives made significant gains, while the Liberals easily held their stronghold of Toronto. In the Prairie Provinces, the Conservatives had a great night, as expected; I was especially pleased to see that Liberal gun-banning Justice Minister Annie McClellan lost her seat in Edmonton. In British Columbia, the Liberals appear to be holding much of their Vancouver base, although results are still coming in.
The Liberal Canadian Prime Minister has just delivered an eloquent, patriotic concession speech. Current results (including Ridings where results are not final) is Conservatives 124; Liberals 103; Bloq Quebecois 51; New Democratic Party 29; Independent 1. This will lead to the Governor-General of Canada asking Conservative party leader Stephen Harper to form a minority government.
Also up to them to show they can resist corruption better than the liberals.
We'll see how this all goes, but I doubt the liberals will be out of power for long in Canada. Coalitions will form in time. There is just no upside for them without such measures, and there are ways to do so responsibly.
"Although the Liberals lost, they did better than polls had indicated."
True, but not by much. The Liberals got about a 3 point popular vote swing from the Tories in the end.
Re: Mclellen...most people are glad to see her gone. She was a good hard working MP, but it was hard for many to stomach her during question period. So much for the Liberals trying to reach out to the West.
Oh...and there goes the Gun Registry!
As for allying with the BQ, I think they'll get the Bloc's support on measures which will remove the federal government from interfering with the provinces (something the separatists certainly want), but, by and large, the BQ tends to be left-of-centre in its politics. This leaves the Conservatives with no real allies with whom to partner -- it'll mean a fight for every bill.
As for the scrapping the amazingly wasteful gun registry, I wouldn't hold my breath. The Liberals, who wanted to ban handguns, still have a lot of votes; the other parties don't seem to be in any particular rush to dismantle it, either.
Once these measures passed the coalition and government would collapse when Quebec attempts separation thinking, with the additional money and power, they could gain some traction.
I suspect we'll see the Liberals end up supporting the Conservative government on more occasions than you'd think, because the Liberals simply can't afford another election, and don't have any allies to form a government without election.
That's true now but if the Conservatives are in power in a year, don't be surprised to see a Liberal-NDP alliance topple the government. The NDP distanced themselves from the Liberals because the corruption scandals but more likely than not, in a year, those will be "old news". Once the Conservatives turn to the social items on their agenda, the left-wing alliance that the Liberals and NDP had will re-emerge.
To everyone who has suggested a coalition government: that isn't how Canadian governments work. In the Dominion's 139 year history there have been 9 minority governments and 1 government of national unity (during WWI). Out of those 10 times there has only been a formal coalition once. The Bordon government at the end of WWI was comprised of Tories and Liberals who were in favour of conscription. Check this out for more info. Far more often the coalition is informal with the smaller party getting a large say in how the government is run - witness the NDP last time out.
3. Introduced the National Minimum Wage
8. Funding for every pupil in England to double (since 1997) by 2007-08
19. Local government funding has increased by a third in real terms
20. Equalised the age of consent for gay men
22. Overseas aid budget more than doubled
26. Introduced the Disability Rights Commission
32. All workers now have a right to 4 weeks' paid holiday
33. Record rises in the state pension
38. Free nursery places for three and four-year-olds in England, Scotland and Wales
39. Free fruit for all four to six-year-olds at school
40. Free school milk for five, six and seven-year-olds in Wales
And the best of all...
36. Banned handguns
??? Am I messing up w/my math here? Or have the seat totals changed on recount?
It takes 155 seats in the Canadian parliament to make a majority and win a non-confidence vote.
124 Tories +
153 Total
Even if the lone Independent were to join them (iffy, as IIRC he's a cantankerous radio host from Quebec who ran as an independent cuz it suits him), that's still one shy of a majority.
The NDP gained seats this election, but they missed by 2 getting enough to be a true power-broker. Their votes in this parliament are more likely to be of the "me too, if anyone's still listening" variety. It'll normally take BQ or Liberal support on a vote-by-vote basis for the Tories to pass legislation.
Of the two, the BQ look to be the more unnerved by the election results. Their numbers were much too low for comfort as compared to their usual support. They won't want another election for a while, so they'll be looking for excuses to vote with the Tories in Parliament rather than against them.
The Tories don't need the NDP to form the government They have the largest block of seats and have the opportunity to form the government on that basis. Once they've formed the government, then they'll need to enlist the support of the NDP and others (BQ most likely) to pass bills, the budget and avoid votes of no confidence. That doesn't necessarily require 155 votes (that assumes everyone votes) but they will need to keep a majority voting on the key votes like the budget. However, if a contentious issue comes us, the combined opposition could easily muster the votes to bring down the government, if they are so inclined. That's exactly what happened to Paul Martin's minority government and is likely to happen to Harper as well.
Minority Governments in Canada
Yup. I agree with what you said. But my main pt - that the NDP are 2 seats shy of power-brokering relevance - stands. The Tories will be looking mostly to the BQ for the necessary votes, occasionally perhaps to the Libs, but not normally to the NDP.
The NDP don't really matter; the numbers are clear.
Something I've said on other fora comes to mind, tho, and I'd appreciate opinions. Here it is:
A Tory minority, by forcing them to ally with the BQ, is actually more likely to produce a conservative (small c) result than a majority would.
This is so cuz the one area where Tory/BQ grassroots philosophy aligns is decentralization. The BQ want more power for Quebec. Tories generally favor it for all provinces.
If they go that route (I said "if!"), then the usual 18 mos or so that this latest minority govt lasts will see a lot of transferring of power from Ottawa to the provs. And decentralization, with its attendant competition and choice, is mostly a conservative or, if you prefer, classical liberal, phenomenon.


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Anxiety | Computerized Anxiety Treatment for Suicide
Anxiety research study
What is the primary objective of this study?
The purpose of this study is to test the effectiveness and usability of multiple computer-based treatments for mood and anxiety relevant risk factors. The target of the treatment is related to cognitive stress, which has been shown to be associated with a variety of negative mental health outcomes such as Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, suicidal ideation, and substance use disorders.
Who is eligible to participate?
Inclusion Criteria: - Meet diagnostic criteria for a primary Axis 1 anxiety disorder or meet diagnostic criteria for a unipolar mood disorder along with an Axis 1 anxiety disorder. - Show evidence of current suicidal ideation (BSS above 6. - Show elevated AS indicated by scoring at or above the community sample mean on the ASI-Cog (above 9. Exclusion Criteria: - No significant medical illness (e.g. sig cardiovascular disease, epilepsy, stroke). - Current or past psychotic-spectrum disorders or uncontrolled bipolar disorder - No current substance dependence - Must be an English speaker. - Must be 18 years or older. - Must have normal or corrected vision - Cannot begin treatment/therapy within 1 month of baseline. - Cannot begin a new medication within 3 months of baseline.
Which medical condition, disease, disorder, syndrome, illness, or injury is researched?
Study Interventions
Interventions can include giving participants drugs, medical devices, procedures, vaccines, and other products that are either investigational or already available or noninvasive approaches such as surveys, education, and interviews.
Other:Cognitive Anxiety Sensitivity Treatment
Other:Physical Health Education Training
Study Arms
Research studies and clinical trials typically have two or more research arms. An arm is a group of people who receive the same treatment in the study.
InterventionThe anxiety risk reduction condition will be a combination of psychoeducation plus Cognitive Bias Modification (CBM-I) for anxiety sensitivity (AS). The psychoeducational component will focus on the nature of stress and its effect on the body. Interoceptive exposure (IE) exercises, designed to correct the conditioned fear to these bodily sensations, will be explained and practiced.
ControlThe control condition will be a combination of information about general health and wellness (e.g. diet, exercise etc.) plus an inert Cognitive Bias Modification (CBM-I) task.
Study Status
Start Date: October 2013
Completed Date: July 2016
Phase: N/A
Type: Interventional
Primary Outcome: Anxiety Sensitivity Index-3 (ASI-3)
Secondary Outcome: Beck Suicide Scale (BSS)
Study sponsors, principal investigator, and references
Principal Investigator:
Lead Sponsor: Florida State University
More information:https://clinicaltrials.gov/show/NCT01990131