text:
Wednesday, August 29, 2007
The Packers' Only WWII Casualty
Howard "Smiley" Johnson was not a star player during his brief Green Bay Packer career from 1940-'41. The guard and linebacker from the University of Georgia never scored a touchdown in the National Football League or earned All-Pro recognition.
Johnson was simply a solid young reserve on coach Earl "Curly" Lambeau's teams that posted a 16-5-1 record during those two seasons, including a 10-1 mark in the 1941. He played with some of the greatest names in the Packers' storied history: receiver Don Hutson, halfback Tony Canadeo, passer Cecil Isbell, and fullback Clarke Hinkle.
Yet Johnson holds a special place in Green Bay lore as the only Packer to give his life in service to his country. A display at the entrance to the Green Bay Packers' Hall of Fame honors Johnson, a U.S. Marine who fought in World War II and was killed in Iwo Jima on Feb. 19, 1945.
According to a Green Bay Press-Gazette story, Johnson was involved in fierce fighting on the South Pacific island when a shell exploded and the flying fragments struck him.
"Johnson lay on the ground as Navy corpsmen rushed to his side," Scott Venci wrote. "Instead of pleading for help, Johnson pointed to the other Marines who had been hit and told the corpsmen to save them first."
Johnson was posthumously awarded a Gold Star for his bravery and actions during the Iwo Jima campaign. He previously earned a Silver Star for "conspicuous gallantry" during the Saipan operation for defending a flank during a Japanese attack, engaging the enemy in hand-to-hand combat.
The 28-year-old Marine lieutenant left behind his wife, Marie, and one-year-old daughter, Jennie.
The idea to create a special display in March 2005 to recognize Johnson came from Ron Wolf, former Packers' general manager and an avid military history buff.
Wolf, who lives in Annapolis, Md., said he was paging through a NFL fact book and found a listing of players who served and died in World War II.
"I saw that Smiley Johnson was the only guy from the Packers," Wolf said. "I thought it would be appropriate to recognize him not only for his contributions to the Green Bay Packers, but to the American way of life.
"I suggested to Bob Harlan that we put together a display in our Hall of Fame, and the staff got it done. What better place to honor him than in the cradle of professional football: Green Bay, Wisconsin."
Johnson was a popular player, a conservative and religious man who refrained from smoking or alcohol - a rarity among players of his era. He was one of the first players, along with team star Hutson, to retire in the Packers' hotel on road trips.
"Hutson hits the hay almost every night by eight o'clock," former Packer line coach Richard "Red" Smith said in David Zimmerman's book, "Curly Lambeau: The Man Behind the Mystique." "Friday, however, generally is his night to howl. Then he'll probably stay out as late as 8:15."
Johnson's profile in the Packers' 1941 media guide reads:
"Nobody who has met him need ask twice why Howard Johnson carries the nickname, `Smiley.' Around the city streets of Green Bay, and elsewhere before and after games, Johnson greets acquaintances with the most cheerful of countenances."
In a Milwaukee Journal Sentinel article in September 2001, sportswriter Cliff Christl gathered the following comments from Johnson's teammates:
The late Pete Tinsley, who joined the Packers out of Georgia two years before Johnson and played through 1945, said a decade ago that Johnson had been one of the most popular players on the team.
"I'll tell you what, he was one of the finest young boys I ever knew," Tinsley said. "He was honest. He was religious. He was an orphan and he read his Bible every night before he went to bed."
Herm Rohrig, another former teammate, said a year ago: "Smiley was a piece of work. He got along with everybody and was tougher than nails."
Johnson grew up in an orphanage in Clarksville, Tenn., and when he reported to the Packers' training camp in 1940, he still faced financial difficulties.
Harold "Hal" Van Every, a running back and defensive back from the University of Minnesota, played with Johnson in 1940-'41. Van Every, 89, lives in Minneapolis and fondly recalled last week his teammate and fellow World War II veteran.
"I enjoyed playing with Smiley," said Van Every, a B-17 bomber pilot who spent nearly a year as a prisoner of war in Stalag Luft III after his aircraft was shot down in May 1944 near the Germany-Poland border.
"He had a good attitude and personality, and everyone liked him. He was a guard, but played some quarterback, too - a blocking back in our day. Smiley didn't smoke or drink and he got along well with Lambeau. They didn't come much better than Smiley."
Johnson was a solid contributor in his backup roles during the 1940 and 1941 season. A personal highlight was an interception the 5-foot-10, 195-pound linebacker returned for 10 yards.
Life in America changed dramatically on December 7, 1941, when the Japanese surprise attack on Pearl Harbor triggered the United States entry into World War II.
On that fateful Sunday, the Green Bay Packers and Johnson were in Chicago, watching the Bears play the Cardinals in their regular-season finale. It was a must-win game for the Bears to tie the 10-1 Packers and force the firstNFL divisional playoff in history.
Early into the game, the public address announcer at Comiskey Park told the crowd that all servicemen in attendance should report to their units; then came the news to the 43,425 spectators that the Empire of Japan had bombed Pearl Harbor.
The Bears won the game, 34-24, and a rematch with Green Bay the following week at frigid Wrigley Field.
With a nation preparing for war, the Packers lost to Chicago 33-17, with a tenacious Bear defense stifling the Green Bay passing attack, limiting Hutson to a single reception on the day.
Johnson enlisted in the Marine Corps in January 1942 and was one of 32 active Packers called to duty - but was the only one who did not return home.
He is not only honored with the display in the Green Bay Packers Hall of Fame, but the former University of Georgia star is also remembered in his home state at the Peach Bowl in Atlanta. Each year, the outstanding lineman of the game receives the Smiley Johnson Award.
The Marine Corps also named several South Pacific island athletic fields in honor of Johnson.
"He was an American hero," Wolf said. "What he went through was incredible in Iwo Jima. He paid the ultimate price for his country. It's a fitting tribute to him in our Hall of Fame."
Howard Johnson
College: University of Georgia.
Packer years: 1940-'41.
Packer Highlights: Reserve guard and linebacker on Green Bay's 10-1 team in 1941. . . . Recorded an interception with 10-yard return in 1941. . . . Played in 22 regular-season games in Green Bay tenure.
Jersey No.: 64.
Birthplace: Sept. 22, 1916 in Nashville, Tenn.
Died: Feb. 19, 1945 on Iwo Jima at age 28.
By Martin Hendricks in the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel
29 comments:
- Marguerite said...
As one of the great-nieces to Uncle Howard, I never got to meet him, but have heard many stories from his younger brother and two sisters.
I am wondering if there is any way to acquire Smiley's team photo for both my grandmother, his youngest sister Mae, and my dad, Howard.
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Let's look at a couple of actions that are either (1) not turning out as expected or (2) probably won't turn out as expected…
- We moved the U.S. Embassy for Israel to Jerusalem. I accurately predicted that people would die because of this. Today, more than 50 did just that. Now, this seems to be a bipartisan issue. Democrats and Republicans think this was a good idea (I don't). The problem is that they all also agree that this move essentially puts an end to any attempt at peace between Palestine and Israel. If this is not the end, what is the plan? What is plan B?
- Iran's nuclear development program was stopped and dismantled. In return, we let them have access to their own money and lifted other sanctions. Everyone agrees that Iran was in compliance with the deal. Trump pulls us out of the deal in spite of this. My guess is this has something to do with his National Security Advisor, Bolton. Bolton is a fellow draft dodger, along with Trump. It has been his long standing position that the idea of war with Iran gives him an erection. So now, Iran can go back to building nukes. If Europe tries to enter a deal with Iran without us, Bolton has said we'll impose sanctions on Europe. So, when these things happen, what is our Plan B? There was no crisis in Iran and now there is…now what?
- The Republican Party spent 8 years chanting "Elect us so we can repeal Obamacare and create great insurance for everyone." So, the last budget cut out the individual mandate forcing people to buy insurance or pay a penalty. This is a cornerstone of Obamacare and without it, we can expect to see millions more uninsured and prices shooting up. So, they broke healthcare and have absolutely no Plan B.
- The tax cut passed recently gives the average person almost no relief in taxes. The top 1% and corporations are raking in billions. Meanwhile, our national debt is soaring at a rate never seen before. Essentially, we passed a tax plan that says, "Borrow $1 trillion a year and give it all to the richest people in the country." Early data is showing that the economy is no better than before the tax cut. Yes, unemployment is down but it has been dropping steadily for 8 years. The tax break had no impact on this. So, now that it's clearly not working…what is Plan B?
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Asking for a Plan B is a must with Trump. Why? Because he revels in boasting about what he just did and the results that exist only in his mind. He does this because we let him get away with it. We forget about lie number 3,002 because he is already basking in the fake outcome that is lie number 3,003.
Trump exists because we don't hold him accountable.
The Republican Party exists for the exact same reason.
Time to save the world.
Up, up and away…

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- OEHS will respond and take control of the situation once they are on site, fully briefed, and accept control.
- OEHS will be responsible for contacting the Boston Fire Department and/or Clean Harbors, as well as any other necessary outside regulatory agencies.
- OEHS will defer command to the Boston Fire Dept. once they are on site, fully briefed, and accept control.
- NOTICE: Do not attempt to clean up a mercury spill. Call the Office of Environmental Health & Safety at (617) 570-4849 or (617) 573-8628 and then contact SUPD at (617) 573-8111.
184.108.40.206.1 Chemicals Spills on the Body and in the Eyes
- Quickly remove all contaminated clothing and footwear.
- Immediately flood the affected body area with cold water for at least 15 minutes. Remove jewelry to facilitate removal of any residual material.
- Wash off chemical with water only. Do not use neutralizing chemicals, unguents, creams, lotions, or salves.
- Get medical attention promptly by dialing SUPD at x8111.
- Irrigate the eyeball and inner surface of eyelid with plenty of cool water for at least 15 minutes. Use eyewash or other water source. Forcibly hold eyelids open to ensure effective wash.
- Check for contact lenses.
- Report incident to supervisor, laboratory instructor and to the Office of Environmental Health & Safety at (617) 570-4849 or (617) 573-8628.
** Please note that there are chemicals at Suffolk University, though limited, that should not be flushed with water after contact with the eyes and skin. Some chemicals, such as Phenol, will react with water and cause more damage to the affected area than before the water was applied. Please consult the MSDS and know the hazards of the chemicals you are using before you begin work with them.
220.127.116.11.2 Personal Contamination and Injury
- Know the locations of the nearest safety shower and eye wash station.
- Report all incidents and injuries to your supervisor.
- If an individual is contaminated or exposed to a hazardous material in the laboratory, do what is necessary to protect their life and health as well as your own. Determine what the individual was exposed to. The MSDS will contain special first aid information.
- Do not move an injured person unless they are in further danger.
- Get medical attention promptly by dialing x8111.
220.127.116.11.3 Ingestion of Hazardous Chemicals
- Identify the chemical ingested.
- Call Suffolk University Police by dialing x8111.
- Call the Poison Information Center by dialing (617) 232-2120 or (800) 682-9211.
- Provide the ambulance crew and physician with the chemical name and any other relevant information. If possible, send the container, MSDS or the label with the victim.
18.104.22.168.4 Inhalation of Smoke, Vapors and Fumes
- Anyone overcome with smoke or chemical vapors or fumes should be removed to uncontaminated air.
- Do not enter the area if you expect that a life threatening condition still exists - oxygen depletion, explosive vapors, or highly toxic gases (cyanide gas, hydrogen sulfide, nitrogen oxides, carbon monoxide)
- Get medical attention promptly dialing x8111


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"What we are affectionately calling the 'Lies, Half-Truths and Innuendo Campaign' is underway."
That's Robert Blaha on U.S. Rep. Doug Lamborn, the three-term congressman for Colorado's 5th Congressional District. Blaha is running a primary challenge to unseat the incumbent Republican, and the race has turned nasty, with campaign ads from both sides targeting weaknesses imagined and otherwise.
By June 26, the voters will have spoken, but before then, Blaha wants to address the issue of what he says are false Lamborn claims.
To this end, the Blaha for Congress campaign has hired the law firm Rothgerber Johnson & Lyons to request that numerous media outlets stop running a Lamborn campaign ad. In a letter supplied by the Blaha campaign, attorney Eric Hall writes that the ad titled "Question" "misrepresents Mr. Blaha's record."
"For the sake of [Federal Communications Commission] licensing requirements and the public interest," the letter reads, "your station should immediately cease airing this advertisement."
When asked about the ad, Lamborn campaign's spokeswoman Catherine Mortensen responds: "I am disappointed the Indy is giving any credibility to Mr. Blaha's latest claims."
The ad contains claims that, while being arguably factual, are taken out of context. For instance, there's the insinuation that Blaha was responsible for three tax liens at the now-defunct Nebraska company TournamentGold/Attendeez.
In actuality, Blaha sat on the board of directors after investing some start-up money in TournamentGold/Attendeez, says co-founder Paul Gornell. "And that is the beginning and end of his involvement with our company," Gornell adds.
The letter was sent May 25 to the market's four top TV stations: KRDO, KVOR, KKTV and KXRM. According to Hall, none have answered. Representatives of these stations would not discuss the letter on-the-record with the Indy.
Hall argues that it is the media outlets' responsibility to pull the ad, citing the FCC's mandate that outlets "protect the public from false, misleading or deceptive advertising." Failure to do so can lead to a station's loss of licensure.
However, as one media executive argues, the stations have a legal obligation to run the Lamborn ad.
According to Section 315 of FCC regulations, if a media outlet accepts an ad from one candidate, it must accept ads from all other qualified candidates in that race. Further, the regulation states that the station "shall have no power of censorship over the material."
"I have been expecting, but I haven't received, a legal rebuttal along those lines," says Hall.
Blaha has not pressed the issue with the FCC, says Hall: "That is a huge undertaking. It's not as simple as filling out a form."
Perhaps after the primary, Blaha could continue legal action, Hall suggests, but it wouldn't be cheap. "It costs money to move through that process."
In his letter Hall also requests that the outlets fact-check the campaign ads, and report on the results — a reasonable request, he says.
That might be any candidate's only real hope.
"It's the media and individual's job," argues Blaha, "to clarify for the public."
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Our first experience at a business expo!
In these less than 2 months of being in business, there have been a lot of firsts, and here at Chutzpah, we've just had our first stall at the Nifnex Small Business Annual Expo at Ascot Racecourse in Perth.
In the span of a day, it felt exhilarating and so refreshing to be amongst some super talented business owners, but also connected and officially 'introduced' into the wildly alive tribe of business here in Perth.
We also had the opportunity to create a video montage/highlights video for Nifnex, to showcase different business owners and their offerings.


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- liber variorum tractatuum, 'a book of diverse tractates' (Eusebius, HE 5. 26, Jerome, vir. ill. 35).
- contra gentes, de disciplina (Eusebius, he 5. 20, Jerome vir. ill. 35) 3. [my note - Eusebius mentions 5 a brief work of Irenaeus against the heathens, entitled:πρὸς Ἕλληνας λόγος συντομώτατος καὶ τὰ μάλιστα ἀναγκαιότατος which Jerome incorrectly reads6: Contra gentes volumen breve et de disciplina aliud]
- de monarchia, sive quod deus non sit conditor malorum (Eusebius, HE 5. 20, Jerome, vir. ill. 35)
- de schismate (Eusebius, HE 5. 2o, Jerome, vir. ill. 35).
- de fide (Maximus the Confessor, PG 91, col. 276, and Paris codex 854). [my note - The fragment De fide was at first attributed to Irenaeus, but is now generally considered to be the work of Melito of Sardis.]
- de universe (Photius, bibl. 48).
- de trinitate (Holl, sacra parallela, 84, fragment).
- de octava (Eusebius, HE 5. 20, Jerome, vir. ill. 35).
- epistula ad Victorem (Jerome, vir. ill. 35, in Genesim, codex Patm. rq.35).
- in Canticum canticorum (Syriac fragment in Harvey, ii. 455)
- commentarium in Apocalypsem (codex of the Altenberg monastery).
- 'history of Elkanah and Samuel' (British Museum Syriac codex add. i2i57, f. i98, see Harvey, ii.507
- commentarium in evangelium secundum marcum (Moscow codex bibl. s. syn. 48, in C. F. Matthaei (Moscow, i775). "• H3)
- 'on the martyrs, letter to the churches of Asia and Phrygia on the persecutions of Vienne and Lyons' (Eusebius, HE 5.1, Oecimenius" commentrium in epistulam I Petri
- contra Marcionem (Irenaeus, adv. haer. i. 27. 4, 3. i2. i2).
- contra Valentinum (Theodoret of Cyrrhus, haer. fabul. i.23, Harvey, ii. 479).
The following texts, traditionally attributed to Irenaeus, are therefore possible sources of the commentaries:39 (i) adversus haereses, (2) epideixis, (3) contra gentes, (4) de monarchia, (5) de schismate, (6) de trinitate (7) de octave (8) adversus Marcionem, and (9) adversus Valentinum (assuming a work separate from the adversus haereses). These works were anti-heretical either wholly, or in part, and perhaps also contained eschatological teachings."
Odd that Cyril's allusion to the Prescriptions Against Heresies isn't included among this list but this seems to have been sabotaged to some extending by an overactive Benedictine monk who took what was written in the MS (= προστάγμασι) as a corrupt reference to Against the Heresies.
The full title of his work was A Refutation and Subversion of Knowledge falsely so called (Euseb. Hist. Eccles. V. c. 7). Cyril's expression (ἐν τοῖς προστάγμασι) is sufficiently appropriate to the hortatory purpose professed by Irenæus in his preface. But the Benedictine Editor thinks that the word προστάγμασι may be an interpolation arising from the following words πρὸς τὰς.…The meaning would then be "in his writings Against Heresies," the usual short title of the work.Yet it is worth noting that the standard English translation retains the προστάγμασι. We read Cyril reference 'Irenaeus the Exegete' who wrote 'the Injunctions Against Heresies.' The alternative rendering would be Prescriptions Against Heresies and it is worth noting that Tertullian's text of the same name is often rendered the same way "Firstly, a passage from Tertullian's book of injunctions against heresies is adduced where he states that the churches founded by the apostles were still in possession of the authentic text."
Despite the best efforts of the anonymous Benedictine editor of Cyril's Catechetical Lectures there is no way that the cited work of Irenaeus could be our Against Heresies. There is specific mention of the general contents of the work which we read:
For the heretics, who are most profane in all things, have sharpened their tongue against the Holy Ghost also, and have dared to utter impious things; as Irenæus the interpreter has written in his injunctions against heresies. For some of them have dared to say that they were themselves the Holy Ghost—of whom the first was Simon , the sorcerer spoken of in the Acts of the Apostles.Indeed a long section follows where various heretics are identified all of whom 'dared say' in one way or another 'that they were themselves the Holy Spirit':
For this Montanus, who was out of his mind and really mad (for he would not have said such things, had he not been mad), dared to say that he was himself the Holy Ghost—he, miserable man, and filled with all uncleanness and lasciviousness; for it suffices but to hint at this, out of respect for the women who are presentThe facts are that none of these ideas appear in any text which survive and are attributable to Irenaeus. This is indisputable. Cyril can't be referring to Adversus Haereses as the Benedictine editor wants us to believe. So which work is he referring to? The only answer is to let the actual reading of the MS stand - Irenaeus wrote a text called Prescriptions Against Heresies.
Now it must be acknowledged that nowhere in our surviving edition of Tertullian's Prescription Against Heresies do we find the argument take shape that Simon and Montanus were heretics who " have dared to say that they were themselves the Holy Ghost." No but is that really surprising if this was found in Irenaeus's original text? Tertullian after all was a follower of this Montanus who claimed to be the Holy Spirit. And while the argument does not make its way into Tertullian's Prescription there are parallels with respect to the appendix 'Against All Heresies' which is attacked to the Prescription in most manuscripts.
For instance the appendix says that "of these [heretics] the first of all is Simon Magus, who in the Acts of the Apostles earned a condign and just sentence from the Apostle Peter." Interestingly
as Irenæus the interpreter has written in his injunctions against heresies. For some of them have dared to say that they were themselves the Holy Ghost—of whom the first was Simon , the sorcerer spoken of in the Acts of the Apostles; for when he was cast out, he presumed to teach such doctrines ... Wherefore was Simon the sorcerer condemned? Was it not that he came to the Apostles, and said, Give me also this power, that on whomsoever I lay hands, he may receive the Holy Ghost? For he said not, Give me also the fellowship of the Holy Ghost, but Give me the power; that he might sell to others that which could not be sold, and which he did not himself possess. He offered money also to them who had no possessions ; and this, though he saw men bringing the prices of the things sold, and laying them at the Apostles' feet. And he considered not that they who trod under foot the wealth which was brought for the maintenance of the poor, were not likely to give the power of the Holy Ghost for a bribe. But what say they to Simon? Your money perish with you, because you have thought to purchase the gift of God with money.Of course this information could have come directly from Acts but it is worth noting that despite sharing the same information Book One of Adversus Haereses does not describe Simon as 'the first' of the heresies.
But again, Cyril is certainly not referring to our Against Heresies. There is nowhere where it is said that Simon claimed to be the Holy Spirit. Moreover the MS makes clear the title of the work was the Prescriptions Against Heresies. So we have a work of Irenaeus entitled the Prescriptions Against Heresies which emphasized a commonality among various early heretical groups - they claimed to be the Holy Spirit.
While no MS of Tertullian's Prescription Against Heresies has this line of thought (not surprisingly as Tertullian was a Montanist) it is worth noting that the appendix to his Prescription makes reference to the following in association with his own very sect:
The common blasphemy (among the Cataphrygians) lies in their saying that the Holy Spirit was in the apostles indeed, the Paraclete was not; and in their saying that the Paraclete has spoken in Montanus more things than Christ brought forward into (the compass of) the Gospel, and not merely more, but likewise better and greater.I think we can acknowledge that Irenaeus wrote a text called Prescriptions Against Heresies, that this book was known to Cyril of Jerusalem and in the library used by the bishop and may have been related to a treatise used by Tertullian to write out his Refutations Against Heresies given that Tertullian's writings are so indebted to Irenaeus. Yet we cannot prove any relationship yet.


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The Freemasons of Carpentaria extend a warm welcome to all adult men of Far North Queensland no matter their age, cultural background or faith. We are poised to cultivate the next generation of Freemasons who will take these centuries-old traditions and values into the future.
Who can join?
Since time immemorial, "Ask one to be one," has been the way Freemasonry has acquired new members. Anyone interested in joining is encouraged to make enquiries.
To join you must be 18 years of age or older and believe in a Supreme Being.
Once that initial enquiry has been lodged by you, the District Grand Lodge of Carpentaria will be in contact for more information to make an assessment as to whether you are the right fit for the organisation in terms of being an honest, law-abiding citizen of good character.
Please be aware that your decision to join should be made of your own free will and not through the coercion or force of anyone else. It is however ok for a Freemason to nominate you. If you don't know any Freemasons you can start a conversation today by filling out our online form.
All Freemasons should look to attend Lodge meetings as often as possible. These are usually held on a monthly basis, in the evenings for a few hours at a time. You may also wish to part take in charitable or volunteer work organised by the Lodge.
Abiding by a code of integrity, dignity and responsible behaviour.
You are required to pay a joining fee and annual fees to cover costs. These fees are very reasonable.
We require you to keep all rituals and Lodge matters confidential. Please know that there is nothing unethical or inappropriate about our ceremonies. In fact, that would be against our moral code.


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Timelines for schools
Spring term 2017 timelines to help headteachers, principals and governors plan for the term and academic year ahead.
These 'mandatory' timelines help schools understand the legal requirements they must meet. We've separated them into the pages below according to the types of school they apply to.
We've tried to be as precise as possible but some of the dates may change.
Mandatory timelines
- Timeline for academies: mandatory
- Timeline for free schools, UTCs and studio schools: mandatory
- Timeline for local-authority-maintained schools: mandatory
- Timeline for sixth-form and further education colleges: mandatory
- Timeline for pupil referral units: mandatory
- Timeline for independent schools: mandatory
- Timeline for non-maintained special schools: mandatory
Published 30 January 2014
Last updated 20 January 2017 + show all updates
Last updated 20 January 2017 + show all updates
- Spring term 2017 update.
- Autumn term 2016 update.
- Summer term 2016 update.
- Spring term 2016 update.
- Autumn term 2015 update.
- Spring term update.
- Autumn term update.
- Timelines updated for summer term 2014.
- First published.


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Human Rights in Kenya
On 27 August 2010, a new Constitution was adopted in Kenya. The Constitution, considered to be progressive, is seen as the primary instrument required to make social and political reforms in the country, so badly needed, after the violent events of the 2007 elections. Kenya adheres to the monist legal system and as such ratified international treaties are automatically incorporated into national law. Kenya is party to the majority of the core international human rights treaties as well as regional instruments such as the African Charter on Human and Peoples Rights.
However, even with the reforms that have been made, issues of widespread impunity, corruption and political violence continue to permeate Kenyan society. Increased insecurity has resulted in gross violations of human rights at the hands of the Kenyan security forces and the continued threat of the Al-Qaeda linked terrorist group Al-Shabaab has contributed to growing instability not only in Kenya but also in the region as a whole. The 2013 Kenyan elections were conducted without any serious violence and were generally considered free, fair and credible by international observers. Uhuru Kenyatta and his running mate William Ruto were appointed as duly elected president and deputy president, despite their indictment by the International Criminal Court (ICC) for their alleged roles in the previous post-election violence.
The situation for human rights defenders in the country
Despite important social and political reforms that have taken place in the past decade, including the adoption of a Constitution, human rights defenders continue to be subjected to threats, arbitrary arrests and deadly violence.
Hostility towards independent civil society organisations and individual human rights defenders is on the rise. In recent smear campaigns targeted against civil society some of those within the circle of the ruling coalition have branded civil society as "evil society" in public. To mention but one, prominent civil society leader and the current United Nations Special Rapporteur on the rights to freedom of peaceful assembly and of association, Maina Kiai, has been belittled for belonging to this ''evil society''[1] and has faced continued threats regarding his support of the ICC prosecution.
Kenya is struggling to maintain democratic and constitutional promises that were ushered in 2010. It is widely believed that democracy is not yet consolidated. Impunity and corruption are significant factors undermining advances made; repressive tendencies in the political establishments and the danger posed by terrorist groups based in neighbouring Somalia are adversely affecting the process of consolidation. Kenya's handling of counter-terrorism measures at home and in Somalia often comes under strong criticism from Kenyan and human rights groups.. Muslim Kenyans living in the coastal areas, ethnic Somali-Kenyans and asylum seekers are those most often affected. The government is accused of extrajudicial killings, and using terrorism threats as an excuse to muzzle political activists, dissidents, media and civil society. To reiterate this point the government and parliament endorsed "a Security Laws amendments bill" that allows the President to expand the power of the government, and made reporting of terrorism related issues difficult for the media. Significant parts of these amendments were suspended by court in February 2015. The government has also attempted to introduce new laws and amendments governing the civil society sector. The process is pending but one of the provisions would set to limit the amount of funding civil society organisations can receive from external sources. The government has already de-registered 510 NGOs for alleged failure of reporting, money laundering and financing terrorism. Among those closed are renowned international organisations such as Doctors Without Boarders (MSF).
Issues of corruption, police brutality and the ICC trials are highly contentious topics and those journalists investigating these issues have received ominous phones calls threatening them to cease their work. Individuals who provide information to the ICC are a group that face considerable risk. Growing evidence has shown that persons perceived to support the ongoing ICC trials are continually subjected to harassment and intimidation. This has led to several individuals relocating to different countries for their own safety. Instances have also been recorded of the offices of organisations supporting the trials being broken into and having computer drives and documents stolen.
This increased hostility has led to a worsening environment for human rights defenders in Kenya. Peter Wanyonyi Wanyama, a prominent human rights lawyer was shot dead outside his home on September 17, 2013. Wanyama had been working on several human rights cases, including the violent attacks and civilian shootings perpetrated by the police and other security forces. Similarly, Hassan Guyo, a well known human rights activist who documented the use of excessive force and other human rights violations against demonstrators, was shot in the back at a roadblock patrolled by police and army officers. Even when the authorities know the identities of the perpetrators, little is done to hold them accountable and any investigation that is undertaken rarely leads to prosecution.
Read our full analysis of the East & Horn of Africa Region in our Regional Report East & Horn of Africa.
Ten rights in focus
The right to life and physical integrity
Following attacks and inter-communal clashes, Kenyan security forces conducted several abusive counterterrorism operations in Nairobi, on the Coastal and in the North Eastern regions of the country in 2014. These operations were largely criticised for targeting the ethnic Somali and Muslim communities. During the operations conducted by security officers, reports show that shops were raided while thousands were harassed or detained without charge in appalling conditions for periods well over the 24-hour legal limit.
There are also reports that show various police groups have been linked to the torture, disappearance and unlawful killing of alleged terrorism suspects. Once again the individuals mostly targeted were primarily of Somali or Muslim origin. Kenya's Anti-Terrorism Police Unit (ATPU) has been implicated in several cases of extrajudicial killings of terrorism suspects. Suspects were reportedly shot in public places, abducted from vehicles and courts rooms, severely beaten, detained for long periods of time in isolation and denied access to family members and lawyers. Similarly, suspected criminals continue to be killed instead of arrested, highlighting a worrying trend that has seen an increase in the use of lethal force by police officers. The concern expressed is that such continued operations like these will only assist in the potential radicalisation of the Kenyan youth.
The right to liberty and security of person
The recent terrorist attacks that have targeted Kenya have prompted the government to harden its stance towards suspected terrorists. Subsequently this new stance has resulted in the arbitrary arrest and detention of thousands of ethnic Somalis, including women and children, thought to be living illegally in the country. Following a series of grenade and gun attacks in Nairobi and Mombasa, the Kenyan police responded by rounding up, detaining and torturing up to 4,000 ethnic Somali Kenyans and Somali refugees. A total of 359 Somali and other nationals where deported by Kenyan authorities during April and May of 2014. The detainees were reportedly beaten and held in extremely cramped and unsanitary cells and held far beyond the 24-hour legal limit prescribed under Kenyan law.
Prison conditions continue to be dire. Torture, inhuman treatment, unsanitary conditions and overcrowding in prisons are prevalent issues that raise serious concerns. A lack of training, resources and independent oversight has resulted in dilapidated prison facilities. Nevertheless, some positive steps have been taken by the government to improve the treatment of prisoners. Authorities have built new prison facilities and provided better bedding and improved meals for the inmates. Furthermore, human rights officers have been designated to serve in all prisons to allow prisoners to report abuse and other concerns.
The right to a fair trial and an effective remedy
Investigations into brutal attacks carried out by government forces or criminal gangs are very rarely initiated. The gang attacks on villages in Bungoma and Busia counties in March 2013 that left 10 people dead and hundreds injured have still gone unpunished. Similarly, the victims of the large-scale violence that rocked the country after the disputed 2007 elections have yet to see any justice, as the government has failed or is unwilling to prosecute the perpetrators.
The International Criminal Court (ICC) intervened in 2010 and began investigations into President Uhuru Kenyatta, his Deputy William Ruto and journalist Joshua Arap Song for their role in the post-election violence. The trials for Ruto and Sang began in September 2013, but after several delays the Court found it was unable to proceed with Kenyatta's case which was ultimately dismissed and charges dropped amid concerns of witness tampering and intimidation.
Kenya has supported the African Unions campaign for the mass withdrawal of African countries from the ICC. If successful, African leaders will instead fall under the jurisdiction of a newly proposed regional court, the African Court of Justice and Human Rights. The proposed court would be authorized to try individuals accused of international crimes, but its jurisdiction will not extend to sitting heads of state and senior officials in Africa, ultimately granting them immunity from prosecution. This could only aid in further nurturing the culture of impunity in the region.
The right to the freedom of expression
Kenya's vibrant and independent media sector is protected under the 2010 constitution, which provides for the freedom of speech and press. Nevertheless, the promulgation of restrictive legislation has threatened to significantly limit these rights.
As a response to the rising threats to national security posed by the terrorist group al-Shabaab a controversial Security Laws (Amendment) Bill was signed into Kenyan law on December 19, 2014. The Bill sought to make considerable revisions to current legislation including Kenya's Penal Code, Criminal Procedure Code and Evidence Act.
The Bill introduced new provisions that imposes harsh penalties on social media users and media houses if found publishing and distributing information that is ''likely to cause fear and alarm'' or ''disturb public peace''. Under the Bill, journalists could face up to 3 years in prison if found reporting on terrorist operations without police permission. While the provisions have currently been suspended by the High Court in Nairobi, several media outlets and journalists avoid reporting on issues such as terrorism, corruption or impunity, for fear of reprisals from government agencies and interest groups.
The right to freedom of assembly and association
Freedom of assembly and association are fundamental rights guaranteed under the constitution and accordingly Kenya has a relatively vibrant and active NGO and civil society sector. Nevertheless, Kenya's National Assembly is currently debating making amendments to the existing Public Benefits Organizations Act (PBO) that would threaten the work of civil societies and NGOs functioning in the country. These provisions aim to consolidate government control over the groups as they have increasingly been accused of serving "foreign interests," especially those that support the ongoing ICC trials or are perceive to be funding terrorist activities.
The proposed amendments would seek to introduce a 15 percent cap on foreign funding which would result in a loss of billions of dollars in foreign aid used for development programs. While the proposed amendment has been heavily challenged and is no longer in contention, it does show the governments eagerness to exert its influence and control over NGOs and civil society in Kenya.
The closure of hundreds of NGOs in December of last year, highlights a worrying trend that has been exacerbated by the recent terrorists attacks in Kenya. The government subsequently cracked down on NGOs perceived to be aiding the terrorist groups, freezing their bank accounts and effectively crippling their organisations. Two prominent human rights NGOs, Haki Africa and Muslims for Human Rights (MUHURI) have been accused of aiding terrorist operations and have subsequently been deregistered
The right to protection against discrimination
There are several vulnerable minority groups in Kenya that are systematically discriminated, abused and disadvantaged. Kenya's indigenous communities continue to face severe marginalisation and economic deprivation. This can be attributed to the sustained confiscation of ancestral land and natural resources, lack of political representation, prolonged conflicts and discrimination. There has also been an apparent lack of recognition of indigenous communities by the state. While the new Constitution does provide for the protection of rights of minority and marginalised groups, political disempowerment, lack of access to justice and exclusion from state and development processes are still prevalent issues that plague Kenya's indigenous communities.
There are currently in excess of 600,000 refugees living in Kenya. The massive influx of refugees has resulted in the formation of the world's largest refugee camp, the Dadaab Camp, situated in eastern Kenya close to the Somali border. Refugees are particularly vulnerable and are often targeted by police who regularly arrest them and extort money from them to facilitate their release. Xenophobic attacks are also common in urban areas with refugees often treated with suspicion and scapegoated for increases in crime and insecurity. This has been evident following the terrorist attack at Garissa University, which resulted in the deaths of 147 students. The Kenyan government responded by requesting the UNHCR to relocate the refugees at the Dadaab camp. In their statement, the government claimed that if the camp was not closed and the refugees failed to relocate within 3 months, they would be forced to relocate them themselves. Worryingly this ultimatum will risk the lives of 350,000 refugees and would also violate Kenya's international obligations.
Kenya still has legislation in place that criminalises same sex interactions and there is also a vacuum in the law providing for the legal recognition of intrasexual and transgender persons. Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Intrasexual (LGBT) persons form a marginalised and discriminated group in society frequently subjected to physical violence, hate speech, harassment and extortion at the hands of police, vigilantes and even ordinary citizens. Due to the illegality of same sex conduct, LGBT persons are routinely harassed and blackmailed by the police and those who fail to provide bribes or sexual favours are often presented in court on trumped-up charges.
Stigmatisation of the LGBT community is commonplace. Once a person's sexual orientation is revealed they are often alienated or disowned by parents, friends and neighbours. The community is also adversely affected in education, healthcare and employment sectors, where they are regularly punished, abused, refused service or forced to leave because of their sexual orientation.
With the lack of a comprehensive legal framework that prohibits all forms of discrimination against LGBTI persons and with the current legislation that criminalises same sex conduct, the perpetual marginalisation and victimisation of the group continues with impunity.
The role of Civil Rights Defenders in Kenya
The challenges facing Human Rights Defenders in Kenya are numerous and serious. Civil Rights Defenders has been present in the region since 2012 and has been partnering with local networks, individual human rights defenders, NGOs and international organisations. We work closely with human rights advocates, LGBTI activists, journalists/bloggers and other organisations working to protect HRDs in the country. So far our work includes capacity building trainings including digital security and advocacy on human rights and international instruments. There are currently two Human rights defenders in Kenya who are included in the Natalie Project. We are working to expand and deepen our partnerships with local organisations.
[1] http://www.standardmedia.co.ke/article/2000100143/if-indeed-civil-society-is-evil-then-i-am-a-proud-member-of-that-evil-societyCategories: Country Reports.
Regions: East Africa and Kenya.


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What a surprise
My S.O.S News letter arrived by post this morning, and I started reading it,when I came to the heading Those Hastings Rarities again, so I wondered what was happening now? When I came across my late brothers name looking back at me!, Alf Davis, and the story about the Wallcreeper he had seen at Ecclesbourne Glen ( which I missed as well), for a moment I was back there, I was thinking where we would go birding at the weekend, normally Pett and Rye. And lunch time in The Conqueror Pub in Rye Harbour, where we would meet up with the other local birders, Neil,Tim,Bob,Pat and Mary and many others who ever else was around at the time. Alf was a great laugh and even a better friend brother also my mentor, he got me interested in Wildlife, but birds was his main interest. It started off when we were young ( he was five years older than me) with The Observers Book of Birds, we use to test one another on what birds were what. They were good days, but sadly all gone, never to return, but memories are still very sharpe. So thankyou Pat for writing that report in the newsletter, and Pat you never said that was the second sighting of a Wallcreeper more or less in the same place, the first one was in The Hastings Rarities era. I hope to report on bird sightings soon when I see something to report, good bird watching Pete Rouse


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I've been remiss in uploading project pictures. It seems as if I have been involved too much in home improvement adventures, and it's hard to get too excited about a shelving system for a walk in closet, or pull out shelves for the lower kitchen cabinets. However they have made my wife very happy, and that's important too.
The long "sofa table" like unit is a somewhat rare project, as I finally made something for myself. It's actually a 12" wide by six foot long table for my "man cave". It fits up against a wall and gives me a place to store and display my guns and cases. Made from white pine, the top is 1 3/8" thick with a 3/4" shelf underneath. It's held together with six turned spindles and 5/8" dowels through the shelves. Since the room has walls and ceiling of clear finished white pine I decided to experiment with milk paint in order to add a little color.
Next is a Christmas present for my daughter, a 33"x48" sewing table for two. She has an ever growing quilt group and this sewing table makes it possible for two ladies to sew in a small space. The apron and tapered legs are curly maple and the top is 3/4" birch plywood with edge banding. Again, I experimented a little bit, using a water based dye. It did a great job of highlighting the curl in the wood. Final finish was three coats of polyurethane. In retrospect, I would have loved to make the top out of solid curly maple. Alas, the Christmas deadline was approaching too fast. Maybe next time.
-- "Heaven is North of the Bridge"
12 comments so far
#1 posted 01-11-2011 04:21 AM
Very nice work. I love the color of the "sofa table". It's a very unique look.
-- How valuable is time to a person who spends his disparaging the beliefs of others? --David Berthelette
#2 posted 01-11-2011 04:30 AM
Very nice work, and I like the apron too.
-- Paul M ..............the early bird may get the worm but it's the second mouse that gets the cheese! http://thecanadianschooloffrenchmarquetry.com/
#3 posted 01-11-2011 04:35 AM
The sewing table is great…what a cool idea. My sister quilts with friends and they talk about husbands and stuff. What a great way to work with a friend and gab at the same time while both sew.
#4 posted 01-11-2011 05:21 AM
You do know they are going to make DAD a quilt for his fishing trips .
-- "My mission in life - make everyone smile !"
#5 posted 01-11-2011 05:28 AM
Love the sewing table and the sweats —Go Gators! ;-)
-- Gary, Florida
#6 posted 01-11-2011 05:42 AM
Nicely done
-- www.carvingandturningsbyrick.com, Rick Kruse, Grand Rapids, MI
#7 posted 01-11-2011 10:13 AM
Nice work! Both look very nice!
-- Mike Minneapolis, MN
#8 posted 01-11-2011 10:42 AM
Both projects look great Ralph. Gotta keep the wife happy with the other projects too.
-- Talent on Loan from God - Rush Limbaugh ----------www.genesiswoodworks.com----------
#9 posted 01-11-2011 01:03 PM
Both are really nice projects. Your shop is so neat and the sewing room reminds me of my Mom's, with the big quilt rack. I agree with Gary above…......... GO GATORS
-- Dr. Ken, Florida - Durch harte arbeit werden Träume wahr.
#10 posted 01-11-2011 05:02 PM
The projects you make that bring the smiles like in picture #2 make it worth it.
#11 posted 01-11-2011 05:15 PM
Both very nice projects. The sewing table had a lot nice details.
-- Mike, an American living in Norway.
#12 posted 01-17-2011 02:26 AM
nice work!!! great SS SHOP!!!
-- Matt--Proud LJ since 2007
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text:
On Wednesday, May 3, 2006, 10:07:12 PM, Mark wrote: MM> I'm trying to write a function that calculates a normal map from a bump MM> map, and am using MM> http://www.w3.org/TR/SVG/filters.html#feDiffuseLighting as a guide. MM> Unfortunately, the normal calculation requires me to multiply by the MM> function I(x, y), and nowhere defines what function I is. Its the identity matrix. Although this is a standard notation, you are right that we should document it. MM> Any ideas? MM> How can I perform the Sobel gradient? Also, why does the SVG Sobel MM> calculation appear so much more complicated than other versions I google? Two reasons. Firstly, because many versions will make the simplifying assumption that the image is of infinite extent, and thus only give you the equation for pixels that are not on the edge. Thinking of a 3x3 grid being panned over an image, where the center of the 3x3 grid is the active pixel, then for all the pixels on the edge of the image, the 3x3 grid will overhang the edge, reading 'empty' pixels. The edge cases (literally) are left as an exercise for the reader. Ignoring them (assuming black) gives nasty artefacts, and filling them gives variability depending on whether the edges are padded (one method to fill the empty pixels) or edge wrapped (another method) or reflected (yet another). The SVG spec gives all nine cases : top left corner,top edge, top right corner, left edge, middle, right edge bottom left corner,bottom edge, bottom right corner Secondly, because of the resampling resulting from filterRes and kernelUnitLength. -- Chris Lilley mailto:email@example.com Interaction Domain Leader Chair, W3C SVG Working Group W3C Graphics Activity Lead Co-Chair, W3C Hypertext CGReceived on Wednesday, 3 May 2006 21:45:44 UTC
This archive was generated by hypermail 2.3.1 : Wednesday, 8 March 2017 09:47:08 UTC


text:
Frustration is coming!
We all have that hard section. We can usually predict frustration. This one topic is complicated, a bit abstract, or just very different from the rest of our curriculum.
For me this was always DNA, transcription, and translation. It didn't matter what I tried. Many of the kids still got frustrated and some just quit. I've had teacher mentors say that if the material is frustrating, then it's the teacher's fault. Of course, you do need to evaluate your lessons to see if there is a better way of presenting the material.
Sometimes the teacher causes the frustration and sometimes the subject is just tough to learn.
New research shows a method to help your students get past the frustration of learning new concepts.
What the study found
Nothing strikes fear in high school students like chemistry. What better way to test frustration. Researchers used a high school chemistry course and looked at the students emotional perspective rather than the traditional test performance.
1. New concept = frustration
Ok, this is a no-brainer. Concepts that were completely different from previous material caused the most frustration. I know that I feel the same way.
Teacher Actions:
Connect new material to old subjects as much as possible.
Use an analogy to help students build the right framework.
2. Frustration was partially resolved through student-student or student-teacher interaction.
This should not be a total surprise. Individual discussion is highly effective as a way to solve areas of confusion. Not ever student learns the same way. Two students will absorb different parts of a lesson and can commonly help their partner with what the other one is missing.
As it turns out extra work, lecture, and video may reinforce the material, but has no effect on frustration.
Teacher Actions:
Make sure new lessons have group based assignments
Talk to each group independently to gauge understanding and answer questions
3. Students who revisit the new concept after the interaction converted the frustration to more positive emotions.
The important piece here is that the students were allowed interaction with other students or with the teacher before they concept was reviewed. When this happens, the frustration faded.
Teacher Actions:
Make sure new lessons have group based assignments
Review the concept directly after group interaction
Final take-away
"The teacher's ability to recognize the emotions of the individual students allowed for very effective differentiation in learning."


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Given no comments were submitted during the 2-week pre-LC comment period [1] for the Progress Events spec, this is a Call for Consensus to publish a Last Call Working Draft of this spec based on the latest Editor's Draft: http://dev.w3.org/2006/webapi/progress/Progress.html This CfC satisfies the group's requirement to "record the group's decision to request advancement" for this LCWD. Note the Process Document states the following regarding the significance/meaning of a LCWD: [[ http://www.w3.org/2005/10/Process-20051014/tr.html#last-call Purpose: A Working Group's Last Call announcement is a signal that: * the Working Group believes that it has satisfied its relevant technical requirements (e.g., of the charter or requirements document) in the Working Draft; * the Working Group believes that it has satisfied significant dependencies with other groups; * other groups SHOULD review the document to confirm that these dependencies have been satisfied. In general, a Last Call announcement is also a signal that the Working Group is planning to advance the technical report to later maturity levels. ]] Positive response to this CfC is preferred and encouraged and silence will be assumed to mean agreement with the proposal. The deadline for comments is March 9. Please send all comments to: email@example.com Assuming there is consensus to publish this LCWD, the tentative plan is to publish it on March 10 with a the LC comment period ending June 1. -Art BarstowReceived on Wednesday, 2 March 2011 12:08:26 UTC
This archive was generated by hypermail 2.3.1 : Friday, 27 October 2017 07:26:30 UTC


text:
Your photos: Let it snow
January's suburban photo challenge theme is Let it Snow. We are looking for photos that capture the beauty of a snowy day. Share your photos of snow-covered landscapes, snowy fun, those not so pleasant messy streets or anything else that highlights the powdery white stuff.
Copyright © 2019, Chicago Tribune


text:
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Taking good care of your Land Rover is important to keep it running smoothly and efficiently. Keep in mind that every vehicle is different and that your Land Rover's recommended maintenance schedule may vary based on the year and/or model of your vehicle.
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text:
Is the Republican Party disintegrating before our eyes? I think so, although it's hard to make any sense of what's currently going on in politics and no one can predict the future. But suppose it is; would that explain why we have total gridlock in Washington, a Congress with an approval rating of 9% and this series of self-inflicted financial crises over the "fiscal cliff," the sequester and threats about not raising the debt ceiling?
Pundits don't seem to know; after all, no one alive has seen a political party dissolve. We don't know what the telltale signs are anymore – although parties do come and go, as the Whigs and Know-Nothings can attest.
History seems to show that a party goes belly-up when the nation rejects its policies, but its leaders aren't capable of change. There just stops being a reason it exists anymore, so its members walk away and join other groupings. What are the signs this is happening to the GOP?
Take CPAC, the Conservative Political Action Conference just ended in suburban Maryland. Thousands of reporters were accredited to cover it from all over the world as if it were an important event, but it mostly turned out to be a circus. There was Mitch McConnell, who's 71, in front of a roomful of activists who are 22, denouncing the Democrats' frontrunners in 2016 as a rerun of the "Golden Girls" – despite those frontrunners' being younger than he is. Hillary Clinton is 65 and Joe Biden is 69. Yuck-a-day!
It was slightly entertaining to watch McConnell deliver this line; he has no lips and apparently no teeth, but he almost broke out in a smile at his own utter hilarity.
Donald Trump gave a talk, which ranged from rambling to incoherent; his big criticism of Mitt Romney (last year's failed Republican, in case you've forgotten already) was that he didn't brag enough about how rich he is. American admire success, Trump said – which must be true because it's the only reason anyone's ever paid attention to him. The news was that nobody showed up to hear Trump deliver this pronouncement. I think Toupée Man has finally worn out his welcome.
A few bored reporters generated some discussion of Sen. Rob Portman's switch in favor of Gay marriage, two years after his son told him he's Gay, but the only people excited about that were old people, interviewed here and there by obscure bloggers with videocams; the College Republicans who dominated the event mostly said Portman was right – if you asked them, because they weren't talking about Rob Portman.
The weekend winner was Rand Paul, a nominal Republican who's really a Libertarian. That party is likely to scoop up some Republicans if the collapse happens. Paul won the CPAC straw poll for President in 2016. He won't win anything else, but he did win that.
A forum on broadening the party's demographic base devolved into a White Power diatribe, with the featured speaker, K. Carl Smith of the Frederick Douglass Republicans, having to listen to a Tea Party activist who claimed that Whites have been "systematically disenfranched" by the U.S. government and that slaves ought to have thanked their masters for giving them food and shelter.
Not a good sign when you're trying to broaden your base. Not a good sign a-tall!
The Tea Party in some version may try to organize itself as a post-Republican party, though after the spectacle of Dick Armey showing up with armed guards to clean out his desk at FreedomWorks (and pocket an $8 million settlement), it's hard for me to see them as serious. Mother Jones magazine reported that FW paid radio talkers Glenn Beck and Rush Limbaugh to extol the group on the air every week, which Armey opposed as not cost-effective and insulting to activists. The main beneficiary, Armey said, was FW's president Matt Kibbe, who used staff members to write a book he profited from.
When political hustlers are in charge of the "grass roots," there is no there there. So what's to become of John Boehner?
Has there ever been a Speaker of the House like this guy? He reminds me of the Wizard of Oz after Toto's pulled back the curtain. Boehner just keeps fiddling his dials and pumping the smoke machine as if nothing has happened amiss. He announced this weekend that mere election results aren't going to change his policies; why would losing have anything to do with it?
Someone smart pointed out recently that when the Democrats were in the doldrums back in the 1980s, losing the White House to Ronald Reagan and the elder George Bush, it took them three elections to right the ship – and then they turned to that "New Democrat" Bill Clinton, a Southern governor who "ended welfare as we know it." If the party had gotten too liberal, which was the popular if mistaken diagnosis, Clinton arrived to clean things up. (And he did carry a Southern state or two.) Today, of course, the Republicans have only lost two in a row to Barack Obama (or three of the last four popular votes, if you count George W. Bush in 2000), and it may be that Republicans still have another loss to come before they change, if they do. If they make it that long. I'm not sure they will.
They have no obvious talent waiting in the on-deck circle, while it was clear back in 1988 that Bill Clinton was a comer. The few Republicans being talked about in 2016 all seem to have huge liabilities. Gov. Bobby Jindal is universally praised as intelligent, but his draconian policies in back-swamp Louisiana keep running afoul of the courts, and while he made a brief splash for telling Republicans they've got to stop being "the stupid party," he didn't propose anything smarter for national policies. He didn't say global warming is real, let's support marriage equality or open up a path to citizenship for immigrants, so it's clear he either doesn't have convictions or doesn't have the courage of them.
Jeb Bush, the "smart one" of Barbara's boys, is running around hemming and hawing about immigration – he's for the pathway, he's not for the pathway, "you have to understand we wrote that book (that just came out) last year" when we thought Romney would win – and saying he loves his brother W., he didn't do anything wrong and Jeb is proud of him. Try selling that to voters!
It's true that Jeb can hardly say, "That son of a bitch, he screwed me for life," but if he doesn't say it, he's screwed anyway. Bye, Jebber, you should never have let W. outrun you in 2000.
Marco Rubio, Jeb's protegé, doesn't know how to be the Republicans' Great Hispanic Hope. If he endorses the pathway, he loses the nomination; if he doesn't endorse it, he loses the election. (Besides, he ain't that goodlooking.) And did you see him the other day at CPAC? No, he said, we don't need new ideas, we still have a great idea – "It's called America."
That and eight bits might get you coffee. Or not.
As for Chris Christie, the only Republican popular with Democrats (and that won't last), he wasn't invited to CPAC. He hugged President Obama after Hurricane Sandy and that supposedly cost the Mittster the election.
So they invited the Mittster instead. No one knows why; CPAC was one collection of losers after another.
The moral of the story: when journalists outnumber activists, CPAC has peaked. (Most of the college kids were really just looking to get laid anyway.)
Maybe there will be a Republican who surprises us, a backbencher in Congress most likely; someone who finally gives up on Boehner, McConnell, sequesters and cliffs and government shutdowns, and strikes out on his or her own course. But if that were going to happen, I would think the gun safety debate would be the place for it to start. Polls show 91% of Americans favor universal background checks on gun purchases, but the only Republican senator who favors running all names through the computer is Mark Kirk of Illinois, who's recovering from a major stroke. (He had to learn to walk again, and has made a good recovery.)
Every other Republican in Congress is plowing ahead as if nothing has changed. They'll continue to obstruct, won't pass any legislation and their big worry is that they'll get "primaried" by a more conservative candidate – which led Lindsey Graham, better known as Senator Huckleberry, to announce he's the proud owner of his very own assault weapon.
The jokes just write themselves.
As I said, I don't own a crystal ball. They don't work even if you own one. But we do know what causes a political party to crash. They insist on policies that are unpopular. They lack a strong leader. (Reince Priebus, anyone?) They prove incapable of altering their strategy, tactics or campaign techniques. They lose favor with young voters and are opponents of change, which happens whether they like it or not; see Gay marriage. They end up fighting among themselves while their platform loses all coherence.
Maybe Chris Christie can clean up this mess; but his temperament is volatile and his policies are immoderate – destroy the unions, snuggle up to Wall Street; New Jersey has a lot of financiers in those New York suburbs. He should coast to re-election this year but I'm not convinced he has national staying power. If he's the nominee, which would take major hocus-pocus, and Hillary Clinton runs in '16, I think Dems would keep the White House. Maybe even Biden could keep it, if he takes off his shirt and washes his Firebird in the front yard.
That would be three straight losses for the Republicans. Then we'll see if some young, attractive, pro-Gay moderate can inject new life in the party, or it just burns out like the Know-Nothings.
President Obama has often compared himself to Ronald Reagan, odious as that is to me. Reagan was so successful he changed the trajectory of politics for a generation, and succeeded in seeing his vice-president replace him. (That hasn't happened since.) The problem for Republicans is that Reagan was such a transformative figure who made conservatism acceptable, that his party today doesn't know how to extend and broaden what he began. They're reduced simply to invoking him, paying homage to the great man, claiming him for what they're doing 30 years later. But he's been dead quite some time now, and a huge chunk of voters doesn't remember him. His trickle-down economics didn't work, even his budget director admits cutting taxes doesn't raise revenue or grow the economy, and these sad sacks, who lack his charisma and polished charm, are stuck doing wash/rinse/repeat. He went right, so they go further right, all the way to Crazyland, but Americans don't want that; we like Social Security, we like Medicare and Medicaid, we don't want people starving in the streets.
Libertarianism is a dead end; a modern society requires a modern government, with food inspectors and air traffic controllers, scientific research and development; you can't turn back the clock. We're here, we're queer – they're used to it!
The Tea Party may gasp on, but ask Claire McCaskill and Joe Donnelly (D-IN) how they like being in the Senate. As for the gun freaks after Sandy Hook, it's plain we don't want to live that way; it doesn't make us safer. Obama may or may not succeed in cutting the budget when we ought to be raising it – who would he negotiate with for this "grand bargain"? – but his best bet is just putting Air Force One on auto-pilot until 2014. If Ashley Judd knocks off Mitch McConnell, the Party of No will be nowhere.++
Filed under: Anti-Gay Bigots, Gay marriage, Gridlock, Obama, Sandy Hook, War on Women |


text:
Direct Grants Awards
Maine Children's Trust provides funding for community based prevention programs.
Strengthening Maine Families
We train professionals, including child care providers, in how to work with parents and families to help them develop strengths and protective factors. Abuse and neglect is less likely to occur when protective factors are present in families.
Period of PURPLE Crying
This program is the Statewide Shaken Baby Prevention Program developed by the National Center on Shaken Baby Syndrome. This program is fully implemented in every birthing facility in Maine, providing information and materials to every birth on infant crying, coping and soothing techniques and the dangers of shaking a baby.
Maine Families Home Visiting
Maine Families is recognized as one of the state's most critical investments for preventing child abuse and neglect, improving childhood health and cognition outcomes, and reducing future demand on tax-supported services. Maine Families is a voluntary program available in every county statewide for pregnant women, expectant fathers, and parents or primary caregivers of children from birth to age three. Services are delivered by trained specialists to ensure safe home environments, promote healthy growth and development for babies and young children, support positive parenting and enhanced parent-child relationships, and provide key connections to needed services. Family visitors use a non-judgmental, compassionate approach that empowers parents with skills, tools, and confidence to nurture the healthy growth of their baby. The intensity and length of services are matched to family needs in response to an individualized needs assessment. This allows for careful optimization of resources, in which highest-need families receive more frequent visits over a longer period of time.
Safe Sleep Initiatives
This initiative also provides a variety of information and materials to professionals and new parents about how to keep infants safe when they sleep. Includes the assurance that parents have a safe place to have their infant sleep, and that they know to insure their infants sleep alone on their back in an uncluttered sleep area.
Maine Children's Trust is the state chapter for this free, easy to use program. Text4baby's power lies in its ability to get the most essential health information to mothers in need quickly and easily using a technology they regularly use and rely on. Over 91% of Americans own a cell phone and 81% of cell users send or receive text messages. Text4baby is a data-driven initiative. Staff routinely monitor and analyze a wide array of data collected by the program, including data on enrollment, completion and cancellation, program dosage, participant-reported reason for cancellation, referral source, and descriptive data from various questions asked through the mobile platform. These data are reviewed to inform and improve program promotional, outreach, and product strategies. Additionally, Text4baby provides partners with access to real-time enrollment data to support them in understanding the impact of outreach initiatives on enrollment.


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Building your dream home is not an easy task. In fact, it can be regarded as an achievement of your life. The success of building your home is largely attributed to the efficient and trustworthy builder that you have chosen. Obviously, it implies that the builders Melbourne based that you have chosen should have adequate knowledge of various construction processes. Apart from the technical knowledge, the builders should also have thorough knowledge of the norms of the local Council that are to be followed before, during and after the construction works. For example, in Melbourne, some builders are offering homes even with low deposits. Although such offers are limited, the builder should appropriately guide the buyers so that they can make use of such exclusive offers.
Effective communication:
The home builders with professional acumen can help the people to save a considerable amount of money by inviting them to make use of such wonderful offers. Once you are able to choose the best builder, then you can be certain that you will be able to build your dream home without any hiccups. Further, after choosing the best builders Melbourne market has today, you must make every effort to stay in good terms with the builder. Here comes the importance of communication between you and the builder.
Mutual trust;
Mutual trust and understanding are the core elements in effective communication between you and the builder. On his part, the builder must strictly follow the business ethics of transparency and diligence in work. On your part, you should effectively communicate your requirements, budget and all other related issues so that builders Melbourne has today can customize the building to your specific requirement.
Compliance to GBCA:
The builder should ensure the building is constructed strictly according to the Australian standards and the norms set out by the local council. Further, the builder should also ensure strict compliance with the Green Building Council of Australia (GBCA). The builder should ensure that the materials used in the construction of your new homes are strictly according to the specifications provided to you. He should use materials that are environmentally certified. The builder should leave no stone unturned to conserve the on-site biodiversity.
Customized plans:
In the normal course, the builders will offer you customized plans and you will also be requested to visit the display homes so that you will get a fair view of the design of your proposed home. The custom design normally includes different types of homes, like, for example, single storey, two storey design and dual occupancy Melbourne residents prefer and so on. The builder will make appropriate changes to the customized design to suit your specific requirements.
Visit the homes:
Before you shortlist the builder, you must get a quote from at least three or four reliable builders. You may take the assistance of a civil engineer and compare the quote. Further, you should also visit some of the construction works completed and buildings under progress from the contractor. You should also effectively discuss with the owners of such buildings. All these help you get a fair knowledge of the abilities of the contractor.
Look for a reliable builder:
As already said, you are investing your life's savings in the construction of your dream home. Therefore, you must choose a reliable builder like the http://www.l37.com.au so that your dream of constructing a superior quality home becomes a dream comes true.


text:
Are You A Holistic Professional?
If you are a wellness professional or business focused on providing solutions using a natural approach that takes the entire person into account - mind, body and spirit, then we want to include you in our community of like-minded practitioners.
In addition to being a resource for the public to find and learn about holistic solutions, Holistic Network International is a valuable resource for holistic businesses to collaborate, support and encourage each other.
Monthly member meetings provide an opportunity to leverage the wealth of collective knowledge and experience of members from both a business and a practitioner perspective. During the meetings you have an opportunity to share who you are and what you do (great for referrals!). Your first meeting is free!
By joining Holistic Network International you open the door to many new avenues to reach more clients interested in what you have to offer. As a member you are included in our Holistic Professionals Directory and eligible to contribute to our quarterly publication the International Journal of Holistic Health. You are also eligible to participate in member showcase events and educational opportunities. Learn about student membership.
Holistic Network International is in the business of connecting holistic providers with each other and with consumers of holistic products & services. We work to raise awareness and educate our communities about the holistic offerings in their own backyard. Starting a chapter allows you to build relationships with peers that span across modalities and to reap the rewards that go along with being a recognized wellness leader in your community. We provide the tools to get you started and ongoing support. You can leverage our infrastructure including a robust website that automates membership administration, meeting management and much more.
Email firstname.lastname@example.com to learn more.


text:
srhydra avait besoin d'un nouveau design de logo et a lancé un concours sur 99designs.
Un gagnant a été sélectionné de 59 designs proposés par 21 designers freelance.
New Logo for Old Business- for websites and advertising, business cards, etc...
Bus.Name: SANTA ROSA HYDRAMATIC TRANSMISSION
or SRH Transmission Repair
Accepted File Formats:
Standard Web Formats (.jpg, .gif or .png); Vector Formats (.eps, .pdf or .ai)
This is a Logo design contest for a busy transmission shop (SANTA ROSA HYDRAMATIC SERVICE or SRH Transmission repair) www.srhydramatic.com located in a medium-sized city in the wine country of California, gears, hotrods, classic cars. We have been in business for 50+ years. All of the auto repair shops use us to build transmissions for their customers. text "Transmission repair" a must in large design. Compact design with SRH would be nice as well. Transmissions have gears. classic cars- hotrods our specialty. heavyduty work trucks we are experts at repair.
Large Design must include text: Transmission Repair.Â
Compact Design: SRH Transmission Repair
Specialties include: Hot Rods, Classic Cars, Pickup Trucks
Savoir comment fonctionne un concours de design ou en savoir plus sur nos services de design de logo.