text:
We all love free stuff, and many times free is good. A common question small business owners are asking is, "Should I Build my Own Website?" The great thing about technology is that it's getting easier and easier to use and that includes tools to "build a website for free."
This morning I read a fascinating article, "The Changing Role of Web Design in the Semantic Web." The article is focused on how a web designer now needs to understand the needs of a business from a variety of aspects, including social, business fundamentals, and the psychology of your visitors just to name a few. It got me thinking about the question "Should I Build My Own Website."
If you Google "how to build a website for free?" you get almost 800,000,000 results in about a 1/2 a second. The results range from free platforms to "how to" videos on YouTube. The descriptions promise things like "no coding skills needed," "free and unlimited
hosting," "it's easy to create and share web pages," and "you'll be online today."
Why I Built My Own Website
I've been around the eCommerce and internet world for a while now, since 1996 to be exact and more than half of that time included managing a web development team. I was also responsible for things like email marketing, website merchandising, and SEO. So when it came time to build a website for my business, I had more knowledge than the average bear and I decided to build it myself. I even toyed with the idea of including basic WordPress sites as a service. (boy would that have been a mistake)
I've had great success with the online classes offered through ed2go.com and I remembered that they offered technology oriented classes as well. Sure enough they had an entry level and an intermediate session on building a website in WordPress. The instructor was excellent and after the 6 week course I felt ready to tackle building my site.
It went fairly smoothly and in a reasonable amount of time I had an on-line presence that would do for now and I figured some day down the road I'd pay a professional for a more customized and "prettier" presence. Because of my background, I understood things like building navigation menus, implementing site maps, naming conventions, and how to write content.
What I Learned from Building My Own Website
What I didn't know was how challenging it was going to be to find and manage multiple plugins to add functionality to my site or how horrible it would be to troubleshoot security issues and keep the hackers at bay. There has also turned out to be a need to do some technical troubleshooting when things go wrong with a theme or a plugin.
The DIY (do it yourself) free and cheap website builders scared me before I built my own site and they scare me even more now. It seems like I should have known what I was getting myself into, but I naively thought "my site is simple, there won't possibly be much that can go wrong."
As it turns out, I've spent more hours than I care to admit troubleshooting issues and solving problems. On the one hand I'm glad that I made the decision to build my own website because it's given me a much better understanding of how things work "under the hood." It's taught me about things to look out for on other people's websites that otherwise I wouldn't have known about.
On the other hand, those hours spent troubleshooting technical issues would have been much better spent networking, marketing, and promoting my brand and my business.
Why DIY Website Builders Scare Me
What scares me about people building websites themselves using DIY tools, WordPress included is that they are missing information that is critical to their on-line success, particularly when it comes to being found on Google. There's little awareness of how important the actual structure of a website is, most people don't really understand the importance of content and what "good content" means.
But most of all there are so many mis-understandings about how search engines work and the reality is that it's getting more and more sophisticated and complicated to understand. Most of the business owners I talk with either have no understanding of how search engines work or they have just enough information to be dangerous.
There are plenty of people writing and reading about keyword research, publishing content, and getting links; however there still isn't enough information written about the personalization of search results, the importance of social networking and relevance, and how the internet is shifting from"websites to people."
It's not enough to know about keywords and inbound links and it's not enough to just have a website. Google understands the content that is shared, the context in which it's shared, the relevancy of the content, and relationships between people as well as websites.
In order to succeed online, it's imperative that business owners and website managers understand that getting found in Google is about more than keywords and link building. It's essential that they partner with professionals who can and will help you build an online strategy and explain the "reasons why" in ways that make sense.
DIY website builders scare me because they make it "easy" for people to build a website without understanding the whole picture and in the end lose out on opportunities and worst case scenario have a website presence or online strategy that is doing them more harm than good.
In addition to the potential pitfalls because there's a lack of understanding about how search works, there's also the very practical issue and reality that no matter how simple a site might be, "stuff breaks" and what you don't know may be hurting you.
If your business depends on a successful online presence (and I'm not sure any business can succeed without one), I urge you to spend the time and the money to have your website designed and built by a professional (who understands what's happening on the web). It'll be worth it in the long run.


text: Loyola University Chicago prides itself on providing excellent educational experiences to its students across five global centers including the Lakeshore and Water Tower campuses based in Chicago, Illinois. With a 14:1 student-to-faculty ratio, students receive personalized attention with ample opportunity to pose questions, challenge perspectives, and engage with the course material. Students enrolled in the Chicago Center will leave the program with increased critical thinking and intercultural communication competencies.

subset: commoncrawl


text:
Sip Chat ListenSip an enticing beverage from our coffee or wine bar to usher in great conversation with friends and newcomers. Listen to our vintage vinyl collection, great musicians, or your own device.
Read. Think. Love
Indulge in our book collection or bring your own to inspire great thoughts. Respond to every call that animates the spirit (Rumi).
Latest Hit.
We are proud to feature Sweet Science Coffee as our in house brew masters. Come see (and sip) for yourself why the WashPost considers this the best coffee in town.
Upcoming Events
More Events
Ongoing Events


text:
one - open an account with e-gold.
Step two - purchase the equivalent of $110 in e-gold currency from any of the distributors.
Step three - when you have e-gold in your account, go to the donate page and fill in the form. Follow the instructions. In the memo field, type in your Login and E-mail (Introducers Login : zaiza)
Can I quit?
Yes -- by going to your members page and unchecking all the reentry boxes.
Is this legal?
Yes -- it is legal. The U.S. gifting rules are found in the IRS Tax Code, Title 26, Sections 2501, 2502, 2503, 2504 and 2511, and Canadian Tax Code, Sections 143.3 and 62.0. The law states that one or more individuals can give a gift to another individual of up to $10,000 each per calendar year without any tax liability to either the giver or receiver of the gift, because the tax on the gift has already been paid. For amounts more then $10,000, you should make the necessary reports on the gifts.
How can I "cash in"?
You may sell your e-gold currency to any of the distributors in the e-gold website.
Is this program available internationally?
Yes -- subject to laws of the individual countries.
When I qualify to receive the gifts, when will it be given?
We will try to make transfers at minimum of two times a day except on weekends and holidays.
Is there a fee involved?
We are including a service fee as we are providing a platform for which you can participate in the program. The fee is for hosting your data and providing you an access on the web via this website.
How many levels are there?
We will have a maximum of 13 levels.
Can I participate in all the levels?
Yes, upon your qualification.
How can I qualify?
You have to complete the position of beneficiary and participate as Support Group SystemTM to proceed to the next level.
Is there anyway to go directly to a particular level?
No. Everyone
has to start from level one and qualify before they can move up the levels.
En. Zawawi (013)-9399071 e-mail: email@example.com


text:
ELEDIA@AUTH has joined the ELEDIA Research Center Network
The ELEDIA Research Center is very pleased to welcome the ELEDIA@AUTH as part of the ELEDIA Network Labs. ELEDIA@AUTH research group, directed by Prof. Sotirios K. GOUDOS, is located at the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki (www.auth.gr/en), Thessaloniki, Greece.
Read more at www.eledia.org/eledia-auth/.


text:
Conventional mortgages are loans that are granted through a private financial institution and do not come through government insured or guaranteed programs. Conventional loans adhere to the lending guidelines that have been set by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac and can have rates that are either fixed or adjustable.
When you need funds to purchase or refinance a primary home, second home, or investment property, ACMG conventional loans provide what you require. We offer conventional loans to those with credit scores as low as 620 and up to 97% of cost on Single Family Residences (SFRs) and Condos having from 2 to 4 units.
Here are some details:
Call 843.444.LOAN or Click Here To Apply Now


text:
Chestnut Dog CollarSKU: N/A
$ 30.00
Hand–crafted from Horween Dublin leather, this collar is chestnut in color with a black stitch. It's also finished with black edges, making it comfortable and stylish on your pet. The collar features stainless steel hardware and is adjustable for a perfect fit.
Available Sizes:
Small: 5/8" wide with neck measurements 8–12 inches
Medium: 3/4" wide with neck measurements 12–14 inches
Large: 1" wide with neck measurements 14–17 inches
XLarge: 1" wide with neck measurements 17–20 inches
Please note, the underside of the Large and XLarge collar is lined with supple, yet durable cotton webbing. We add this webbing to prevent the spread out of leather.
The leather used for crafting is produced by Horween Leather Company – one of the oldest continuously running tanneries in the United States. It is 100% vegetable tanned leather which is still made by hand, the same way as generations ago. The leather is superior in quality, the collar is supple and only improves with age. It is incredibly durable, yet is very flexible.
The dog collar can be personalized with your dog's name and/or telephone number. The inscription can be embossed directly on the leather, it's free up to 10 symbols. Also, we can add an ID Tag to the collar which can be engraved with your dog's name and telephone number.
Personalization Instructions
– please, select a Dog Collar Style from the first drop-down menu at the checkout
– if you need the personalization, please specify it in the text area for Embossing and/or ID Tag
– the default font for the embossing is Arial, all letters are in uppercase.
Made in USA
Additional information
|Thread Color
Black, Blue, Brown, Green, Light Brown, Light Grey, Lime Green, Navy, Orange, Pink, Red, Sky Blue, Turquoise, White Smoky
There are no reviews yet.


text:
While many of the activities are not "as" suitable for five year olds, I found the overall variety of the activities both interactive and engaging - they all made me think and relate back to the readings but because they were all different it added to the resource bank of possibilities while giving the group as a whole an opportunity to engage in dialogue!
In no particular order a few of the activities we completed today ...
- Create a rap to summarise key points of a selected theory of learning - now, I'm not at all a fan of rap music but still found this task entertaining. It also made me think about how I could rephrase the intended message to fit the verse of our song. Importantly, in my own classroom it wouldn't have to be a rap song, it could be a poem, a ballad, or set to the tune of a nursery rhyme (I particularly like this one and will try it with my five year olds!)
- Create a newspaper headline to summarise your learning - particularly liked this one because you had to explain your meaning in just a few lines!
- Positive and Negative view point - this was a collaborative Google Doc with a table to type ideas against a number of view points. What I particularly liked about this was it scaffolded us to think about the positive and negative side of each scenario. So often its easy to just consider one side of a position.
- Visualising your position - this was a great activity, and I really enjoyed it which is interesting given I can't draw at all - but it was all about representing how you position yourself with regards to learning and learning theory. My image (below) comes from my learning being pieces of a puzzle, hence the jigsaw pieces on my t-shirt. The people on my shoulder represent the learning communities I involve myself in and being keen to share my knowledge and skills with others. The yellow question marks (representing blonde hair) is for the reflective nature of my practice, always considering how things have gone and what I could do next time to improve. I love my job and going to work each day, hence the smile, and the heart.


text:
What IT Solution does your business require? Get a free consultation today!
About Us
We provide innovative Management Information Systems (IS) and Information Technology (IT) Solutions which enables businesses achieve and exceed bottom line.
At Inventrium, we believe that the playing field is getting more even and that small and medium sized businesses can now leverage the technological solutions erstwhile available only to big corporations, apply these solutions to their businesses and ultimately deliver the best possible ROI for investors.
The opportunities; whether to reach out to customers, gain new business insights, improve efficiency, multiply productivity or manage resources, through the vast amount of digital tools and processes are immense. Ours is to deliver on this premise.
Recent Articles
Get periodic IT news, business insights, technology reviews, white papers and research reports to help keep your team up to date.
September 7, 20170Six million Instagram accounts have been exposed online after hackers created a dark web database...
August 30, 20170UBS Group AG is leaning toward Frankfurt for its trading headquarters inside the European...
August 24, 20170Unbeknown to the app developers, an advertising software development kit contained code for stealing...


text:
Via Porta Salara, 6/10View on map
Phone: +39 (0382) 301169 Fax: +39 (0382) 25979
Mon 07:30-08:29* 08:30-12:30 13:01-14:59* 15:00-19:00 19:01-21:00*
Tue 07:30-08:29* 08:30-12:30 13:01-14:59* 15:00-19:00 19:01-21:00*
Wed 07:30-08:29* 08:30-12:30 13:01-14:59* 15:00-19:00 19:01-21:00*
Thu 07:30-08:29* 08:30-12:30 13:01-14:59* 15:00-19:00 19:01-21:00*
Fri 07:30-08:29* 08:30-12:30 13:01-14:59* 15:00-19:00 19:01-21:00*
Sat 07:30-08:59* 09:00-12:30
Navigating a whole new area on your own schedule was never easier than with a cheap car rental from Pavia. As soon as you arrive at Pavia, Italy, you can look forward to exploring straight away. As well as having the freedom to drive to exciting new locations on a whim, you can plan day trips and excursions to nearby attractions that capture your interest.
With a simple booking system and a great selection of vehicles, Europcar is the perfect choice for your Pavia car rental. Book online before you go and discover a range of options; we have hourly, daily, short term, weekly, monthly and long term deals available in this location, and you can talk to us to find out which one will be best suited to your trip.
Rent a car in Pavia and prepare to hit the road for a whole new heap of memories
Remember to always bring your driver's license, valid credit card and additional proof of identity (such as a passport if you are renting abroad).
Don't miss our exceptional pre-summer offer!
No matter why you're traveling to Italy, you can count on our fleet of new rental cars to get you there in comfort.
Whether you're looking for a small or medium car or sedan, an MPV or roomy family car, a luxury vehicle or an automatic rental, our friendly staff at our Italy outlets can assist you. Book your vehicle online with Europcar today.
Same smart app. More mobility.
Download the Europcar mobile app for iPhone, iPad and Android now!
@ Europcar 2019


text:
By combining songs, dialogue and acting our Musical Theatre classes are meant to teach and provide inspiration to students of all ages the craft of Musical Theatre. Our Musical Theatre classes feature instruction in both theatrical and musical arts, and our students will participate in actual theatre performances every 12 weeks.
- Hollywood Academy of Music and Arts offers both private and group Musical Theatre classes for all ages. The material presented is based on some of the best known and loved musicals. Special attention will be paid to methods and vocal techniques that will give the student a solid performance foundation. Props, music and movement will combine to tell the most amazing and inspiring stories of the human state. From humor, pathos, love and anger the student will learn how to express themselves on stage.
- Our private classes will allow for individual attention to the student's needs. Whether the student is a beginner or they are well versed in dramatic methods these classes are particularly useful for individual audition preparation and honing monologue. There will also be a focus on the development of voice and songs for productions of their choice.
- Our group classes are divided by age to ensure an age appropriate approach. We offer 12 week classes that are 80 minutes in length and allow for direct instruction and practical application. The fun and lively group classes will culminate in an on stage presentation of a musical piece chosen by the teacher and students. Do not miss out on this engaging and entertaining way to expand your creativity!
If you are looking for musical theatre classes and are located in the greater Los Angeles area, please contact us through our "Get a Free Class" link or just give us a call. We offer classes in three Los Angeles area locations, each of which feature a friendly and professional studio environment.
Call today to schedule your FREE trial lesson!


text:
Charlie Flynn is a Scottish amateur turned professional boxer who was brought to fame after winning Gold at the 2014 Commonwealth Games when he defeated Joe Fitzpatrick at Glasgow's SSE Hydro. Shortly afterwards he became a cult hero following a television interview. He then earned the nickname "The Mailman" due to the fact he worked in a Royal Mail sorting office. He then had the slogan "The Mailman Delivers" embroidered on his boxing shorts and the nickname has stuck with him ever since.
Charlie made such an impression on the TV interview, Scottish impressionist, Jonathan Watson ended up doing a take on Charlie in his traditional Hogmanay TV show "Only an Excuse".
Here is Charlie's biog in his own words:
Brought up as a typical lad from Motherwell and boxing from the young age of 7, I am now a professional boxer. The highlight of my amateur career was the Glasgow Commonwealth Games where I emerged from being a complete unknown and took over the competition and cheekily stole the gold. That's where I coined the phrase 'The Mailman Delivers'. Which has stuck.
After travelling the world and winning many medals for Team Scotland, I left the amateurs as the reigning Scottish, British and Commonwealth champion. I've had some amazing moments with the team, good, bad ...and ugly. After featuring in Interviews and TV shows, I've been catapulted into the world of public speaking; covering everything from after dinner talks to corporate events and Charity stuff. I even do inspirational talks for businesses that need some spark. I am Charlie Flynn and basically... I am the man!!! follow me on my journey!!!!
Charlie Flynn is now available via SpeakOut! for keynote and after dinner speaking.
Find out how to book Charlie (Mailman) Flynn as the sports speaker for your next event by calling SpeakOut! on 020 8914 8966 or clicking the button below.


text:
The Firm of Grieve Grierson Moodie & Walker was formed in 1997 following the amalgamation of the Firms of Hilary L Grieve and Grierson Moodie & Walker.
Hilary L. Grieve, Solicitors had commenced business at 14 Castle Street, Dumfries in 1993.
Grierson Moodie & Walker had its origins in the acquisition of the business of W & W P Moodie, Solicitors in 1944 by J & R A Grierson, Solicitors and the subsequent arrival of David M. Walker.
In 2015 it was decided to retain the Firm name of Grieve Grierson Moodie & Walker and adopt the 'GGM&W' branding.Telephone 01387 266 250 or email


text:
Event organizers share their experience and tips solving their problems for their events. We hope these tips could be useful to your event as well. If you also have something to share to the community, please let us know by filling out the form at the bottom.
Event Engagement Tips
Event Management Tips
Event Networking Tips


text:
Chinese Medicine is a powerful and complete
system of medicine that has diagnosed, treated and prevented
illness for well over 2000 years. It incorporates the
use of natural medicinal plants (herbs), acupuncture,
massage, nutrition, meditation and exercise. While it
can be an effective remedy for diseases and ailments,
it can also can calm the mind, speed recovery, boost
immunity, and improve one's quality of life.


text: During the early to midway part of our Moroccan tour, the windscreen fell out, the primary cause of this happening may well be debated for some time to come, I am of the firm belief that the problem started before we even got to the land of sand and sun, One of the most daunting parts of our trip was to discover we had to reverse onto the pitch black hole know as the ferry to Morocco, now a 36 ft RV with 4 foot extension via scooter rack is just not going to do it, the ramp at about 30 degrees was going to catch on the bike rack before my rear wheels left the dock, so the load masters idea was to attack the ramp at 45Degrees and apply full right lock as soon a possible, now these guys have loaded ships before, so I followed instructions to the letter and hey!!!!! It worked; up we went without a scrape or scratch to be heard. Unloading at the Moroccan port was easier as I was pointing out of the abyss this time but a 45 degree dismount was still reqd according to the ships parking attendants And yes it appeared to work again, no horrendous noises at all, However i believe it was the twisting of the chassis going up and down the ramp at these angles that started this sorry saga It was a few days later after an fantastic night wild camping in the |Cedar Forest that I awoke to what looked like daylight streaming through a gap that had appeared between the windscreen glass and rubber, Whooooooooooooa it was a gap""" 4" to be precise, my screen and the RV were going separate ways, making emernancy repairs with gaffer tape (God bless the man that invented that stuff) we moved on to our next venue, Ray organised a local screen fitter to come out to sort us out, or so we thought ,and I use the term screen fitter loosely very loosely, being in the motor trade I did know what was reqd to re fit the screen but thought over here they may do things a little different and was willing to let the local expert have a go, BUT before he did I wanted to know what tools he had and what method of attack he was going to employ. Well it turns out they do indeed do things differently in Morocco, he had no tools at all but that wasn't going to stop him, he said he could do it with the help of a friend, He may well be using knife's forks and spoons but if it got the screen back in who cares, next on the agenda was the all important price, important to me at any rate, (Im in the trade remember) After much deliberation and teeth sucking he announced a fixed price was not possible as he had never fitted a RV screen before, ok that's not unreasonable, I could find twenty screen fitter's here at home who had never fitted one either, and because he didn't know how long it would take he couldn't apply the local union rate for the job, after a short conversation via a translator, he was informed that hell would freeze over before I would let anyone start work for me until a contract in blood stating just how much Dollar I would be paying out was in place he came up with a figure in Moroccan Dirhams, a quick calculation worked out at around £160 that may not seem an awful lot, but you have to remember I know what it should cost and having earlier been told the average wage for Moroccans, another quick calculation worked out he was estimating the job at just under 6 months work!! So, yup you guessed it, he didn't get the job, I cant repeat, not even on this forum what Ray thought of his extortion racket %7£4+*%4£&8***^5$3 but it went something like that Nothing else for it dIY repair was called for and seeing as Lyndon Volunteered to give me a hand, well he was told he had volunteered. We set about it in 50 degree midday temperatures me inside and Lyndon outside back to the sun with a bottle of beer each saw our first break about 3mins into the job sweating like the preverbal. Round two saw the passenger side re fitted in just over half an hour, and set us up for what we then believed was going to be a successful outcome, counting eggs and chickens sprung to mind but was dismissed as we had already been lulled into a sense of false security We huffed and puffed for what seemed like an eternity and managed to get the drivers side all but fitted apart from the last 6 inch or so, we only had knives forks and spoons aourselves so were slightly at a disadvantage, but it wouldn't have it.no choice now but to gaffer tape every thing firmly into place as it was now 90% better than when we started, Has anyone tried using Gaffer tape in 50 degC it don't stick!!!!! It was like using a bandage with honey spread on, to cut a long stort short and I bet a few of you are now wishing I had a lot sooner than now, when the sun went down it worked and held it all in place. Trouble is next morning the sun came out again and melted it, fifty yards down the road and all was flapping and shaking again, once out of the dessert regions the tape started to act as we in the cold uk know it should, and held for the next few thousand miles with just the odd re application for piece of mind and to calm Pammy's nerves which were just a bit Janggled at this point and we mage it back up through Spin, too the Fun Fishing meet and home without too much grief Anyhoo the whole point of this post is to let you all know how we got on with finding a replacement (did I mention it also cracked didn't I), it was something I was not looking forward too Finding a supplier a fitter dealing with the insurance company and getting the replacment in one piece etc etc, I need not have worried One call to Travel World and they sorted out the lot, they flew in a screen from the US and organised a fitter to come to me, and they used Autoglass Coach-Bus and Train, Between them they spoke to insurance and got the ok, so start to finish was 2 weeks exactlty 2.5 Hrs later ---------------Sorted. Credit where it's due Travel World worked for me Now to sort out the awning with me mate Linda (discount) from Stateside Tuning Geo


text:
They claim the purpose is to decide which clamp causes less pain. (Note the concession that pain results, regardless of method.)
But then they state they will be collecting data on bleeding results, parental satisfaction results, botched circumcision results etc. (Note that the timeframes for many of these seem inappropriately short, such as measuring bleeding only 10 minutes after the surgery.)
Babies enrolled in this study will be circumcised at Good Samaritan Hospital, which as the Facebook page proudly claims, "is the pre-eminent Catholic hospital in the community."
So let's get this straight. Non-consenting babies are going to be enrolled in a study to purportedly track which nontherapeutic surgery method has "less" pain, but the study will also measure other factors such as hemorrhage, injuries and infections, all with conveniently short timeframes, and this is going to happen at a proudly Catholic hospital?
Am I the last sane person on earth?
It gets worse. It appears Triealth made an erroneous comment about Catholic teaching:
"At Good Samaritan Hospital it is understood that patient care, education and research respect and support the total good of the patient and uphold the sanctity of human life and the principles of Catholic teaching. The circumcision study compares two medically accepted circumcision processes. Only after the parent or guardian requests and consents to circumcision for their infant, is informed consent sought for this study; they are free to decline their child's participation in this study. Steps to ensure pain relief are integral to the study protocol. Male infant circumcision has been practiced for centuries and is not among the procedures prohibited in the Ethical and Religious Directives for Catholic Health Care Services."
That last part, bold added by me, is true only in that the Ethical and Religious Directives doesn't mention infant circumcision as a separate topic at all in the entire document. The statement made by Trihealth seems to imply it's not prohibited, versus not being mentioned directly. Very disingenuous.
Furthermore, the Ethical and Religious Directives for Catholic Health Care Services does give us some insight on how to handle situations where non-consenting little people are being signed up for nontherapeutic experiments with risks.
How about this part:
Or how about this one:
It IS too bad the directive doesn't explicitly have a statement on nontherapeutic circumcision of infants (both male and female). In fact, since nothing is said about female infant circumcision, are we to assume that female circumcision is approved as well? What about just taking a chainsaw to baby arms for that matter? No mention of chainsaw amputation in the article so go for it?
Nonetheless, the related statements clearly show that nontherapeutic circumcision experimentation on baby boys should be prohibited. But Catholic hospitals should already know this. There's certainly no confusion when it comes to Catholic teaching on unnecessary medical procedures, forced medical procedures and amputations:
The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops asserts:
"All persons served by Catholic health care have the right and duty to protect and preserve their bodily and functional integrity. The functional integrity of the person may be sacrificed to maintain the health or life of the person when no other morally permissible means is available. (Ethical and Religious Directives for Catholic Health Care Services (Fifth Edition, 2009), n. 29.)
The Catechism of the Catholic Church states:
"Except when performed for strictly therapeutic medical reasons, directly intended amputations, mutilations and sterilizations performed on innocent persons are against moral law." (CCC, n. 2297)
What is infant circumcision?
This procedure in America is the removal of the prepuce organ. The prepuce, or foreskin in layperson terms, is a functioning organ of the body. During circumcision surgery, the organ is pulled away from the glans penis and then cut or clamped off the body.
What is the medical definition of amputation?
"Amputation is the intentional surgical removal of a limb or body part. It is performed to remove diseased tissue or relieve pain."
How sad! Even the medical definition of amputation clearly states that removal of a body part is done for disease and pain, neither of which are present in a healthy newborn about to undergo forced amputation of his prepuce organ!
Infant circumcision is forced amputation of a healthy, functioning body part on a nonconsenting, innocent person. It clearly violates Catholic teaching and ethical health care directives. Don't be fooled by Trihealth's statement!
Catholics and circumcision:


text:
|Alvie Miller
Alvie Miller
Alvie married Mitt Haycraft, daughter of Preston Haycraft and Lydia Hornback. (Mitt Haycraft was born in 1901 in Grayson Co, Ky and died in 1972.)
Table of Contents | Surnames | Name List
This Web Site was Created Sep 29, 2009 with Legacy 7.0 from Millennia


text: A picture taken on April 4 shows destruction at a hospital room in Khan Sheikhun, a rebel-held town in the northwestern Syrian Idlib province, following a chemical weapons attack. Omar Haj Kadour/AFP/Getty Images hide caption toggle caption Omar Haj Kadour/AFP/Getty Images The Two-Way White House Suspects Syria Is Preparing For Another Chemical Attack June 27, 2017 A statement says the observed "activities" recall those before an April 4 strike that killed civilians, including children. It warns the Assad government that it would "pay a heavy price."


text: Home > Bookshop > Other Subjects > Hardcover « Back Lovely as a Tree: Poems in Praise of Nature Inkstone Our Price Retail Price AUD$14.95 Your Price AUD$5.72 Minimum Order: 1 In Stock (1) Dispatch: 1 day Lovely as a Tree: Poems in Praise of N/Inkstone/Hardb/0977579255/S036-E AUD$5.72 QTY Gift Wrapping Add Gift Wrapping (click checkbox) If you would like a gift wrapping message, please add it in the Notes section on the checkout page, thank you. AUD$2.95 Publisher: Inkstone Press ISBN-13: 9780977579259 Series: Binding: Hardback Year Published: 2007 A superb collection of beautiful and inspiring classic poetry in praise of nature. For anyone who has ever halted to hear birdsong; looked up in wonder at the setting sun or gloried in the sense-enhancing delights of the natural world, this is your book. Read and rejoice! ID: 90187 Code: GM000130


text:
Who? Beba Göttel of Beba Gottel
What She's Wearing: New Yorker shorts, Happening blouse and Rose sandals.
Fashion Icon: "Kenza Zouiten."
What fashion means to her: "Fashion is my way to express myself. It's the way to present people who I am with no words. Fashion for me is what music for singers is."


text:
Q&A Booklet: More Short Answers to Real Questions about Hinduism
Download HAF's Q&A Booklet
Hindu Americans comprise one of the fastest growing populations in the United States. Of the 1 billion Hindus worldwide, the Hindu American population currently numbers around 2 million, but this does not include the estimated 32 million others who derive inspiration from Hindu spirituality and practice Hindu teachings such as yoga and meditation. With growing numbers comes an increasing awareness of a place in American dialogue and the need for the accurate portrayal of the faith in line with its beliefs and practices. The Hindu American Foundation (HAF) presents herein, more short answers to common questions about Hinduism. This booklet is an expansion of the original Short Answers booklet, found below.
What is meaning of the Swastika?
I've heard some Hindus use the term "Sanatana Dharma." What is that?
Do Hindus have Commandments?
What is moksha?
What is the red dot many Hindu women wear on their forehead?
How often is a Hindu supposed to pray?
Do Hindus believe in heaven or hell?
Why are so many Hindu Gods depicted blue in color or as animals?
Do Hindus belong to different denominations? If so, can they intermarry?
What are the six major schools of thoughts in Hinduism?
What are the major Hindu holidays?
I read that yoga can't be claimed by any religion. Isn't yoga a Hindu practice?
Do I have to be Hindu to practice yoga?
Is Hinduism compatible with science?
What is a guru? What is a shishya?
Why does Hinduism have so many Gods?
Do Hindus have a "Bible"?
Do Hindus believe in reincarnation?
What is Karma?
What is Dharma?
What is the caste system and untouchability?
Why are many Hindus vegetarians?
What is the status of women in the practice of Hinduism?
What is the meaning of the Swastika?
Contrary to the hateful and violent meaning the Swastika has come to take on since its misappropriation by the Nazis, the original Swastika (as pictured below) is an ancient and holy symbol of auspiciousness and good fortune. It is still commonly used at the entrance of Hindu homes, in temples, and on invitations to auspicious occasions such as weddings and other rites of passage. In Sanskrit, the word is a combination of "Su," meaning "good," and "Asti," meaning "to exist." The four limbs of the Hindu Swastika have diverse symbolic meanings: the four Vedas (Rig, Yajur, Sama, Atharva), the four stages of life (Brahmacharya, Grihastha, Vanaprastha, Sanyasa), the four goals of life (Dharma, Artha, Kama, Moksha), the four seasons, the four directions, and the four Yugas (Satya, Treta, Dvapara, Kali). The Swastika is also a sacred symbol for Buddhist, Jains, and Sikhs. Unfortunately, Hitler's usurpation of the Swastika still continues to overshadow the beautiful meaning behind this ancient Hindu symbol.
I've heard some Hindus use the term "Sanatana Dharma." What is that?
Sanatana Dharma and Hinduism are synonymous. The term Sanatana Dharma, loosely translated as "Eternal Law or Way," is self-referential. The term "Hindu," however, is a 12th century Persian abstraction referring to the Indic civilization they found espousing certain beliefs, practices and a way of life on the banks of the Indus (therefore Hindu) river. Over the centuries, the diverse adherents of Sanatana Dharma, which include those who, amongst other concepts, accept the sanctity of the Vedas and other Hindu scripture; accept that there are multiple paths to, perspectives on, and ways to worship the one all-pervasive Divine (Brahman); believe in an underlying unity of all existence; believe in the law of karma, reincarnation, and dharma or right living; and accept the ultimate goal of liberation (moksha) have adopted the references of Hindu and Hinduism. Other terms used to refer to Hinduism include Vedic, Sanskritic, Yogic, Indic and Ancient Indian.
Do Hindus have Commandments?
Hinduism is a family of traditions that emphasizes experience and evaluation and thus, offers overarching guidelines rather than absolute lists of do's and don'ts or commandments in regulating individual behavior. For a Hindu, all actions are to be guided by dharma. Hindu ethical values flow from one's understanding of the nature of reality and inform the Hindu understanding of right and wrong. [See What is Dharma?]
Sage Patanjali's Yoga Sutra provides a very succinct codification of ten principles which are also found in numerous sources of Hindu scripture and teachings and considered the foundations for dharmic action. Of the ten, five are yamas or guides for social behavior and five are niyamas, or guides for personal behavior. The five yamas include non-violence, truthfulness, non-stealing, sexual responsibility and abstention from greed. The five niyamas include cleanliness, contentment, austerity, scriptural study and loving devotion to God.
What is moksha?
The ultimate purpose and goal for a Hindu's religious and spiritual practice is to attain moksha. Moksha is achieved through Self-realization (atma-jnana) or realization of one's true, divine nature. Hindus believe that each individual (anything living) is a divine soul, but that spiritual ignorance leads one to identify the self completely with the body and ego, thereby forgetting the divine nature of not only one's self, but all of existence. Moksha is characterized by the overcoming of spiritual ignorance; the complete elimination of material desires and attachments; the perfected ability to live in the present moment and experience absolute peace; and most importantly, the awakening of pure compassion towards all. Moksha also translates to liberation from the cycle of birth and rebirth (samsara). Someone may attain moksha during his or her lifetime or upon the death of his or her physical body.
What is the red dot many Hindu women wear on their forehead?
The "red dot" or bindi, once primarily a symbol of marriage, has largely become a fashionable accessory for Hindu females of all ages, regardless of their marital status. Traditionally, bindis were red or maroon in color, circular in shape, made of vermilion paste (kumkum), and applied with the ring finger of the right hand. Today, bindis come in all shapes, sizes, and colors and are often self-adhesive for convenience.
The male version of forehead markings is called a tilak and can be made of kumkum, sandalwood or sacred ash. It is applied in a variety of shapes including lines, U-shapes and dots. The tilak can be representative of an individual's deity tradition. The adornment of tilaks are not as prevalent as bindis. However, the marking of either is amongst the first requisite steps in most rituals and sacred ceremonies.
Both bindis and tilaks are placed approximately one centimeter above the center of the eyebrows, which is considered to be the sixth chakra, ajna, in Kundalini Yoga. The bindi is associated with the worship of God as the feminine divine. It is also indicative of the conceptual "third eye of spiritual wisdom", as Shiva, the greatest of Yogis, is depicted as having. Bindis and tilaks may also represent interdependence of both the feminine and masculine aspects of the Divine. Lastly, the bindi and tilak serve as reminders of a seeker's ultimate goal of enlightenment, liberation or moksha.
How often is a Hindu supposed to pray?
Prayer is integral to Hindu practice. Many Hindus follow set, obligatory guidelines in terms of specificity of prayers as well as timing, frequency and length while others may be more fluid and individualized in their practice. One is not necessarily guaranteed moksha upon the performance of certain types or amounts of prayer nor is anyone condemned for lack of prayer, but progress towards moksha is proportional to spiritual effort. Hindus may pray at a personal, home altar which is usually placed in a room or space dedicated for worship; at a temple; or wherever they may be (and without a altar) . Prayers may be to a specific deity or set of deities or to no deity in particular. Prayer may also vary in form and include:
- Rituals and offerings conducted by the individual or a priest
- Chanting of a particular deity's name or deity specific mantra (japa) using a mala. Often a mala, a looped thread which holds 108 beads, is used during chanting as an aid for keeping count and the devotee's concentration.
- Chanting of time specific slokas, including upon waking, while bathing, while lighting a sacred oil lamp, prior to eating, before studying and prior to retiring for the day
- Chanting of slokas for peace and universal well-being (including nature)
- Singing of devotional poems
- Meditating
- Studying scripture
Do Hindus believe in heaven or hell?
Because Hindus believe in karma and reincarnation, the concept of heaven and hell as worlds of eternal glory or damnation do not exist in Hinduism. Hindus also do not ascribe to the concept of Satan or devil that is in eternal opposition to God. [See What is Karma? and Do Hindus believe in reincarnation?]
Some Hindus may believe in what is described in Hindu scriptures as two planes of existence that can be likened to heaven and hell. These are respectively svarga and naraka. Neither svarga or naraka, however, are permament or eternal. Both are intermediary planes of existence in which the soul might exhaust a portion of its karmic debt or surplus before taking physical birth once again to strive for moksha. [See What is moksha?]
Why are so many Hindu Gods depicted blue in color or as animals?
The depiction of some Gods as blue toned is an example of the importance of symbolism in Hinduism. Blue, the color of the sky, represents the limitlessness of the sky and universe. Blue is also the color of water, which is life-sustaining. Swami Chinmayanada, a spiritual leader, explained that the human eye sees that which is infinite as blue so the blue tone serves as a reminder of the Divine's infiniteness.
Because Hinduism teaches that all of nature is Divine, Hindus believe that God manifests in the various forms that are found in nature, including animals, rivers, mountains and earth. For example, Ganesha, the Remover of Obstacles, is depicted with an elephant head which symbolizes wisdom, as elephants are recognized to be among the wisest of animals. Hanuman, worshipped as the perfect devotee and depicted as a monkey, symbolizes the individual's ability to quiet the ever racing human mind through loving devotion to God and selfless service.
Do Hindus belong to different denominations? If so, can they intermarry?
Hinduism is not divided by denomination, but by other categories, including deity traditions, sampradaya, parampara and darsana. Most Hindus belong to one of four major deity traditions - Shaivas, Shaktas, Vaishnavas, and Smartas. While all traditions share many beliefs and practices, the central deity worshipped as well as certain philosophical tenets differ. Shaivas primarily worship different forms of Lord Shiva, Shaktas worship Shakti or the Divine Mother in Her various forms, Vaishnavas worship forms of Lord Vishnu and Smartas worship different forms of six major deities including Lord Shiva, Shakti, Lord Vishnu, Lord Ganesha, Lord Subrahmanya and Lord Surya, holding them all to be forms of Brahman, the eternal, infinite, unchanging principle that is the substratum of the universe and is both immanent and transcendent.
Each deity tradition may also further branch into sampradayas. Adherents of a sampradaya have familial connections and/or strong faith in the heightened spirituality, divine experiences, and philosophical knowledge of the founder and/or current guru or swami (spiritual head) of the sampradaya. Hindus may also freely choose between different sampradayas based on their liking and understanding. A sampradaya following a particular lineage or succession of swamis is said to be of a particular parampara. Hindus of different deity traditions, sampradaya and parampara can intermarry although many choose to marry within these branches for a variety of reasons. [See What are the six major philosophical schools in Hinduism?]
What are the six major philosophical in Hinduism?
Over the ages, various philosophical or theological schools developed in Hinduism through a dynamic tradition of intelligent inquiry and debate. From timeless and universal questions such as the purpose of life to the relationship between humans and the Divine emerged many philosophical schools or darshana. Darshana literally means "seeing." In Hindu teachings darshana relates to the different ways of "seeing" the Divine and attaining moksha or liberation from the cycle of birth and rebirth.
These schools very often approach the same texts and teachings, but from different perspectives and arriving at different conclusions. Six darshanas are recognized as the most influential include Sankhya, Vaisheshika, Nyaya, Mimamsa, Yoga and Vedanta.
These schools very often approach the same texts and teachings, but from different perspectives and arriving at different conclusions. While each school is comprehensive and complex, they are succinctly summarized below:
- Vaisheshika: considered one of the most ancient atomic theories founded by Sage Kanada. Sage Kanada held that all matter is made up of atoms and these atoms are activated through Divine intervention. Vaisheshika and Nyaya eventually merged.
- Nyaya: a system of logic proving the existence of the Divine as well as other core Hindu concepts such as karma. Nyaya insists that nothing is acceptable unless it is in accordance with reason and experience. The thoroughness of Nyaya logic and epistemology greatly influenced succeeding orthodox and unorthodox schools of thought.
- Sankhya: considered one of the oldest schools of thought. Sankhya divides all of existence into two categories - Purusha (divine consciousness) and prakriti (matter). Very little Sankhya literature survives today, and there is some controversy over whether or not the system is dualistic because it propounds the existence of these two categories.
- Mimamsa or Purva Mimamsa: interprets the rules of Vedic ritual, proffering perfection in ritual as a path towards moksha.
- Yoga: more aptly Raja Yoga focuses on quieting the mind through an eight limb system (Ashtanga yoga) as described in Patanjali's Yoga Sutras for a balanced life and ultimately moksha.
- Vedanta: arguably the most influential on modern Hinduism and relies primarily on transcending one's identification with the physical body for liberation. The means by which an individual can transcend one's self-identity is through right knowledge, meditation, devotion, selfless service, good works amongst other religious and spiritual disciplines. Major subschools of Vedanta include Advaita, Dvaita, and Visishtaadvaita.
What are the major Hindu holidays?
Holidays and ways of celebrating those holidays are as richly diverse as the family of traditions called Hinduism. However, there are certain holidays that have come to be widely celebrated throughout the Hindu diaspora. Generally, Hindu holidays may commemorate a particular deity, season or event in history. Often times the same holiday may celebrate several different events or attributes of a variety of manifestations of the Divine (God). Hindu holidays don't necessarily fall on a specific day each year as the Hindu calendar is lunar.
Deity Celebrations
- Shivaratri (February/March) - pays homage to Lord Shiva, the divine manifestation of transformation and regeneration
- Ramanavami (March/April) - celebrates the birth of Lord Rama, an incarnation of Vishnu and embodiment of dharma (righteousness)
- Krishna Janmashtami (August/September) - celebrates the birth and life of Lord Krishna, one of the most endeared incarnations of Vishnu and deliverer of the Bhagavad Gita
- Ganesha or Vinayaka Chaturti (August/September) - pays homage to Lord Ganesha or Lord Vinayaka, the son of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati and divine manifestation of wisdom, prosperity and good fortune
- Navaratri (March/April, June/July, September/October, December/January, January/February) - A nine night celebration of the feminine divine that occurs five times a year (the spring and fall celebrations being amongst the more widely celebrated). The most popularly worshiped manifestations of the feminine divine include Goddess Durga representing the Mother Goddess and Shakti (Divine Energy), Goddess Saraswati representing knowledge, speech and the arts and Goddess Lakshmi, representing good health, wealth and prosperity. Many fasts and rituals associated with Navaratri are exclusive to women.
All of these celebrations may include fasting, temple visits, special rituals, chanting of mantras, singing of devotional prayers, dancing and all-night vigils.
Seasonal Celebrations
- Makara Sankranti, Uttarayana or Pongal (January 14) - one of the few solar holidays that marks the transition of the Sun into Capricorn or Makara rashi on its celestial path and the northward journey of the sun. It also broadly coincides with the winter harvest in many parts of India. Hindus thank God for the bountiful harvest and may pay homage to Goddess Saraswati on this day as well as to ancestors. Pongal is widely celebrated in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu and Sri Lanka.
- Holi (February/March) - Welcomes arrival of spring and the harvests it brings. It also celebrates triumph over divisiveness and negativity. A visually stunning event with people tossing colored powders in the air and using dyed water in an atmosphere where culture, camaraderie and oneness are honored. In the evening, the community lights bonfires and eats festive foods. One of the largest festivals in the world, Holi is celebrated by Hindus, Sikhs, Jains and Buddhists.
Other Celebrations
- Raksha Bandhan / Veda Upakarma (August/September) - A holiday which celebrates the bond between brothers and sisters. Sisters tie a decorative sacred thread or amulet on the right wrist of her brothers (often including distant cousins and friends considered honorary brothers) with her prayers for his protection and well-being while sweets are exchanged. In return, brothers give their sisters small tokens or gifts of appreciation.
- Diwali or Deepavali (October/November) - One of the most celebrated Hindu festivals, commemorates the victory of good over evil. The word refers to rows of earthen lamps celebrants place around their homes. The light from these lamps symbolizes the illumination within the individual that can overwhelm ignorance, represented by darkness.
I read that yoga can't be claimed by any religion. Isn't yoga a Hindu practice?
Yoga refers to spiritual disciplines that are essential to the understanding and practice of Hinduism. The term covers a wide array of practices, embodied in eight "limbs," which range from ethical and moral guidelines to meditation on the Ultimate Reality. Yoga is a way of life that combines both physical and spiritual exercises, entails mastery over the body, mind and emotional self, and transcendence of desire. The ultimate goal is moksha. [See What is moksha?]
In the West, Yoga has largely become an asana-based (posture) physical practice, allowing practitioners to delink it from its Hindu philosophical and spiritual roots. But a perusal of the best known Yoga texts will demonstrate the contrary. Patajanli allots less than 25% of his revered Yoga Sutras to asana. The remainder focuses on what is essentially Hindu philosophy.
Yet, even when Yoga is practiced solely in the form of an exercise, its Hindu roots cannot be avoided. As the legendary Yoga guru B.K.S Iyengar points out in his famous Light on Yoga, "Some asanas are also called after Gods of the Hindu pantheon..." It is disappointing that many yogis regularly practicing Hanumanasana or Natarajasana continue to deny the Hindu roots of their Yoga practice.
In effect, the delinking of Yoga from its Hindu roots disenfranchises Hindus of recognition and appreciation for one of their ancestors' beneficial contributions to civilization and inhibits their ability to promote an accurate and deeper understanding of Hinduism.
Do I have to be Hindu to practice yoga?
Hinduism, as a non-proselytizing religion, never compels practitioners of yoga to profess allegiance to the faith or convert. Yoga is a means of spiritual attainment for any and all seekers. Thus, while one does not have to profess faith in Hinduism in order to practice Yoga or asana, Yoga is still an essential part of Hindu philosophy and the two cannot be delinked, despite efforts to do so.
Is Hinduism compatible with science?
Contrary to popular perceptions that Hinduism is a mystical religion exclusively concerned with transcendental concepts of spiritual practice, Hinduism has been a wellspring of scientific thought and contributed immensely to the global civilization spanning more than five millennia. As a religious practice aspiring to understand the eternal mysteries of existence, Hinduism has never been a regressive or closed dogma satisfied with historicentric interpretations of one holy book. Hindu scriptures describe the concept of planets in the solar system circling the sun and the earth as round and rotating on its axis. Ancient Hindus also made epochal strides astronomy, chemistry, mathematics, metallurgy, medicine (ayurveda) and surgery, including many findings upon which modern science, medicine and technology are based.
Revered Hindu sages, such as Swami Vivekanada and Paramahansa Yogananda, spent time working with and learning from scientists and saw compatibility with Hindu teachings. The French Nobel laureate Romain Rolland said, "Religious faith in the case of the Hindus has never been allowed to run counter to scientific laws," while Carl Sagan once called Hinduism the only religion whose time-scale for the universe matches the billions of years documented by modern science.
What is a guru? What is a shishya?
The word guru very often refers to a master teacher who has great knowledge of or skill in a particular subject area, such as music, dance, sculpture, or other arts. When used in referring to a religious or spiritual teacher, however, a guru is one who not only has deep knowledge that can lead to moksha (liberation or enlightenment), but also has direct experience of Divine vision and grace which they have assimilated into their way of being. The literal translation of 'guru' is "dispeller of darkness."
The students of a guru are known as shishya, meaning pupil or disciple. Prior to accepting a student, a guru traditionally tests potential students for their seriousness of study, with students progressing through different degrees of initiation and study with their teacher. A guru guides their shishya on an artistic or spiritual path, which requires both devotion and commitment to the guru's teachings and advice, yet also requires independent contemplation and discernment. Given the deep bond often created in this relationship, though students can and have changed their guru, it is not a common occurrence nor a decision taken lightly.
The method of transmission of knowledge and relationship between student and teacher is often referred to as guru-shishya parampara (lineage). This relationship and method of teaching has been considered a sacred one in both the Hindu and broader Indian tradition since ancient times. Until the latter part of the 20th century, certain subjects, such as yoga asana, meditation techniques, and Vedanta, were only taught in this manner, through an oral tradition.
Traditionally, students used to live in the home of their guru, with that home becoming their own through their active participation in that family life as if it were the home of their birth. In this way, the guru took on the role of a parent. In modern times, lay students living with a guru is less common.
Short Answers to Real Questions about Hinduism: The Hindu American Foundation (HAF) presents herein, some short answers to common questions about Hinduism. This has been created with the help of noted Hinduism scholars and religious leaders. We sincerely hope this will serve as a useful primer for many.
Released: January 16, 2007
View the online version below, or download the PDF.
Why does Hinduism have many Gods?
Most Hindus believe in one, all-pervasive Divine Reality, that is formless (Brahman) or manifests and is worshiped in different forms (Ishvara or God/Goddess). This belief in the existence of one Divine Reality with diverse manifestations can best be described as monism. Hindu monism is the foundation for understandings of God that range from non-dualistic - that existence and the Divine are not separate, but one and the same, to dualistic - that existence and the Divine, while sharing divine qualities, are separate. Hinduism also encompasses theologies of pantheism, that all of existence is Divine, to panentheism, that all of existence is within the Divine, to a theology of the Divine being external to all of existence. The Sanskrit hymn, Rig Veda I.164.46:
Ekam sat vipraha bahudha vadanti
Truth is one, the wise call it by many names.
And just as Hindus believe that Truth is one, called by many names, so too is God called by many names.
Do Hindus have a "Bible"?
Hinduism is rich in scripture, but does not have a "Bible" in terms of one central, authoritative book. Hindu scripture is an extensive collection of ancient religious writings which expound upon eternal Truths that have been revealed by God and realized by the ancient sages and enlightened wise men. These Truths, which were passed on for generations through an extraordinary oral tradition, include the Vedas and Agamas, the Upanishads, the Epics, including the Bhagavad Gita and Ramayana, the Puranas, lawbooks and many other philosophical and sectarian texts. Scripture in Hinduism, however, does not have the same place as it does in many other faiths. Hinduism is premised on realization, not revelation. To be enlightened, one must have personal experience of the Truths set out in the Vedas and other revealed scriptures. Important to note also is that the words of a living, enlightened teacher are as valid as the words of scripture.
Do Hindus believe in reincarnation?
Hindus believe that the soul is immortal and evolves by experiencing varied lives through the process wherein the soul reincarnates into different physical bodies through cycles of birth and death. Guided by the Laws of Karma (see below), the soul continues on its path of spiritual evolution. The ultimate aim of Hindus is for the soul to attain freedom from this continuous cycle of birth and rebirth and discover its divine origin.
What is Karma?
Karma is the universal law of cause and effect. The critical and subtler understanding of karma is that each action has a reaction and that this cycle is endless. Thus if one sows goodness, one reaps goodness and conversely, if one sows evil, one will reap evil. To avoid the cycle of karma, Hindus strive to remain unattached to the fruits of their virtuous action in thought, word, and deed. When one can work without expecting rewards, Hindus believe that society as a whole benefits and the individual is freed from the cycle of karma and reincarnation. The Bhagavad Gita, III.19 and III.20 expounds on this:
Tasmad asakta satatam
Karyam karma samacara
Asakto hy acaran karma
Param apnoti purusah
Lokasampraham eva'pi
Sampasyan kartum arhasi
Therefore, without attachment
Perform always the work that has to be done
For man attains to the highest
By doing work without attachment
Likewise you should perform with a view to guide others
And for the sake of benefiting the welfare of the world
What is Dharma?
Dharma is the mode of conduct for an individual that is most conducive to spiritual advancement. There are several categories of dharma, including Sanatana Dharma or Eternal Law, which encompasses the inherent laws of nature and the Divine, and sÄmanya dharma and vishesha dharma. Samanya dharma includes general laws that govern all forms and functions, including one's duty to strive towards and achieve contentment; forgiveness; self-restraint; non-stealing; purity; control of senses; discrimination between right and wrong; spiritual knowledge; truthfulness; and absence of anger. Vishesha dharma, or special duties, expound upon social law or the laws defining an individual's responsibilities within the nation, society, community and family; law according to life stage or the laws governing age-appropriate duties related to the natural process of maturing from childhood to old age; and personal law or the individualized application of dharma according to an individual's sum of past karma, intelligence, aptitudes, tendencies, physical characteristics and community.
What is the caste system and untouchability?
What began as a way to understand individuals through personality types (varna) based on inherent qualities, in conjunction with how Indian society was actually organized by occupation (jati), evolved over time into a hereditary, birth-based system. While the system, labeled "casta" by the Portuguese, may have been influenced by religious orthodoxy, it is not sanctioned by the Vedas nor other Hindu texts and teachings, and is neither intrinsic to the practice of Hinduism nor did it span all of Hindu history.
The Vedas make reference to four personality types which are known as varna. These four personality types are believed to be essential for any well-functioning society. They include individuals who are more strongly adept in intellectual pursuits (brahmin); those who are more capable in governance and exercising power (kshatriya); those who gravitate to materially productive occupations and wealth accumulation (vaishya); and those who prefer to work with their hands, or otherwise function as laborers (sudra).
Jati refers to the communities defined by occupation, and can loosely be compared to medieval European trade guilds. Those who worked different occupations became their own social communities. Over time, thousands of jati developed in India, each with its own religious and social practices, and bound by numerous conventions governing their interactions and perceived hierarchies. The rules within each jati were not tied to any scripture as they were by passed down traditions and norms, which slowly became associated with birthright.
The jati system grew more complex, more formalized, and eventually birth-based over the centuries, and not only amongst Hindu communities, but across all religions. Amongst Hindus, priests and teachers became associated as brahmin; warriors and kings became associated as kshatriya; trader and merchants became associated as vaishya; and laborers became associated as shudra. Many Hindus also began viewing reincarnation and karma through the lens of jati and society's perceived hierarchies. Similarly, perceived hierarchies based on jati evolved in other religious communities. Even so, entire jati were also known to change their associated varna if the community's prevalent occupation changed, and the same jati in different regions of India may have been associated with different varna.
One group that had long been relegated to the bottom of the social ladder outside the varna system were what the British referred to as "Untouchables," a fairly accurate translation of the various indigenous labels for them. It is critical to note that while support for social hierarchies can be found in certain texts of social laws, no sacred text or book of social law ever prescribes or defines this category of "untouchables." Untouchability is a purely social evil, not recognized anywhere in the Hindu tradition and arose nearly 2000 years after the Vedas were compiled.
It should be emphasized that there is no basis for a discriminatory caste system in revealed Hindu scripture. Vedic and non-Vedic scripture advance the concept equality of all mankind as demonstrated in the ancient hymn:
Ajyesthaso akanishthaso ete sambhrataro vahaduhu saubhagaya
No one is superior, none inferior. All are brothers marching forward to prosperity.
Lacking an authoritative scriptural basis, it is unfortunate that the Hindu tradition has been conflated with the reprehensible practice of social discrimination that has manifested as racism, religious persecution, and slavery in other cultures throughout the world.
Despite immense societal discrimination and prejudices, however, there have been countless saints and sages from the "lower" castes who have profoundly impacted Hindu philosophy and devotional practice. To cite only a few: Sant Raidas, a chamar or cobbler who was the guru of Mirabai, the most famous of the women devotional poets of northern India; Sant Ramdev, a prominent devotional poet from central India important to both Hindu and Sikh traditions; and Sant Tiruvalluvar of southern India who wrote the Tirukkural, an influential scripture of sacred wisdom. Modern-day saints, with millions of followers worldwide include Mata Amritanandamayi or Ammachi who was born into a fishermen community and Satya Sai Baba who was born into an agrarian community.
Jurisprudence in modern India outlaws caste discrimination and contemporary Hindu spiritual leaders and organizations, including but certainly not limited to Raja Ram Mohan Roy; Mahatma Gandhi; Narayan Guru; Sri Shivamurthy Murugharajendra; Arya Samaj; Sahayoga Foundation have been engaged in eradicating this system from society.
Click here to see HAF's detailed report, Hinduism: Not Cast in Caste - Seeking an End to Caste-based Discrimination.
Why are many Hindus vegetarian?
In India, more than 30% of all Hindus, Buddhists, Jains and Sikhs are vegetarian because of the fundamental belief in non-violence, or in Sanskrit, ahimsa. The Vedas propound that all beings, from the smallest organism to man, are considered manifestations of God and members of a universal family. With this worldview, violence in thought, word or deed against a living being is contrary to the natural balance of the universe. Many Hindus, therefore, refrain from killing animals for food when a plethora of vegetarian alternatives are available.
What is the status of women in the practice of Hinduism?
One of the most profound attributes of Hinduism is the recognition and worship of the God as feminine. In fact, Hinduism is the only major religion, which has always worshipped God in female form and continues to do so today. Hindus revere God's energy, or Shakti, through its personification in a Goddess. The Vedas are replete with hymns extolling the equality of men and women in the spiritual, social and educational realms. It is unfortunate, however, that the gender equality of the Vedic period and that of the Hindu view of the Divine has been corrupted by the realities of social practice and taboo. Yet, Hinduism remains one of a few major religions in which women have occupied and continue to occupy some of the most respected positions in the spiritual leadership including, Sharda Devi, The Mother, Anandamayi, Amritanandmayi Devi or Ammachi, Shree Maa, Anandi Ma, Gurumayi Chidvilasananda and Ma Yoga Shakti.


text:
|Coordinates: 6°01′S 144°58′E / 6.017°S 144.967°E
|Papua New Guinea
|Simbu Province
|Kundiawa-Gembogl District
|Kundiawa Urban
|1,524 m (5,000 ft)
|• Total
|• Main languages
|Kuman, Tok Pisin, English, Dom, Sinasina
|Time zone
|85 km (53 mi) E of Mount Hagen
Kundiawa is the capital of Simbu Province, Papua New Guinea, with a population of 8,147 (2000 Census). It lies along the Highlands Highway approximately halfway between Goroka and Mount Hagen, respectively the capitals of the Eastern Highlands and Western Highlands provinces.
It is a relatively small town, containing a bank, a police station, one of the few airports in the province, several stores, a hospital, a post office, a second-hand market, two food markets and several churches. The Highlands Highway is the only paved road that leads out of it, but there are several smaller, unpaved roads, including one of the roads to Mount Wilhelm.
Kundiawa is the centre of activity for people who are formally employed (which is a relatively small minority, because most people farm) but also for people who want to sell the coffee that they have grown, or to catch PMVs (public motor vehicles) to other towns. The busiest time in Kundiawa is every other Friday afternoon, because this is when everyone gets paid.
The Wahgi River runs along one side of Kundiawa, and the Simbu River, which runs on and becomes the Wahgi, flows along the other side. The terrain around Kundiawa is very steep and mountainous, and many people walk several kilometres each way to get to Kundiawa from their villages because they don't have access to roads. These rugged terrains prevent people from having an elaborate commercial agriculture. However, they are known for their skilled cultivation on these very steep, sloping terrains. Their main foods are sweet potato, taro, banana, and sugar cane. Coffee is the main cash crop.
There are different ethnic-linguistic groups, Dom, Bomai, Golin and Kuman. The most spoken language is the Kuman with more than 115,000 speakers. Kuman is understood and spoken by almost all the different ethnic groups. England wicketkeeper Geraint Jones was born in Kundiawa.


text:
Mihai turned around a detailed server move in less than 24 hours and not a single thing was wrong with the move.
Choose a professional and accessible service for your online image!
Email Subscription
I've started my web development career way back in 1997, with over 10 years ago
Over time I've got an excellent experience in this field, in one hand by delivering web programming courses in Bucharest and later in Rome for FAO (Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations), as well as working on various consultancy and development projects for private persons, to organizations of all sizes.
Something extraordinary happen way back in 2003 when I've discovered Movable Type and adopted it for a major publishing platform I've been working with, later becoming its Technical Director.
Having a technical background and an always pro attitude, the desire to discover as much as possible about Movable Type framework and how far can I go with adopting it as a possible CMS for a broader range of projects came in naturally.
At professional level, the relationship between me as a Web Developer and Movable Type as the Development Environment was so happy that I've really got in love with this publishing platform.
Being able to control and adapt Movable Type for absolutely any time of Web site from static Web sites to blogs or online communities became a reality. Since end of 2005 - beginning of 2006, all the projects I've coded and they were more than 200 entire projects, plus a few other hundreds of little jobs have all been based on Movable Type as a CMS (Content Management System).
The marriage with Movable Type is so happy because I could code absolutely everything I need to make sure all the projects I'm working with will be a success.
Among the facilities I really like coding in top of Movable Type I would mention especially: search engine optimization facilities and podcasting support, but also social networks integration and all the other facilities described at https://www.pro-it-service.com/en/movabletype_extra_facilities.html
Posted by Mihai Bocsaru on October 01, 2007
Permalink | Comments (0)


text:
Let us introduce you to... Andrew Chaney of Orchard Windows
Orchard are located in Tavistock, but cover a larger area and regularly supply and install Bygone Sash Windows throughout Devon and parts of Cornwall.
With a grea team located in the extensive showroom at Tavistock, Orchard offer great customer service and posess an excellent local reputation.
Andy has done a great job of building Orchard up as a well regarded, professional installer of high quality products, which we are happy to say includes the Bygone Collection.
Here's what the Company says about themselves:-
Orchard Conservatories, Windows & Doors are a family business that has been established since 2002 serving customers in Devon, Cornwall and surrounding areas.
It will give you peace of mind to know that over and above our guarantees, we participate in the Double Glazing and Conservatory Ombudsman Scheme (DGCOS) and UK Trades Confederation Quality Assured Scheme.
We supply high quality, durable double glazed products in different materials such as timber, aluminium and PVC-U.
Most of our new business comes to us through the recommendations we receive from our delighted customers and our products are sourced only from the best suppliers who share our values of providing outstanding quality and service.
Our installers work in accordance with strict codes of practice and are required to take all the time necessary to achieve the perfect result.
We would like to invite you to visit our showroom in Tavistock or to send us an enquiry online.


text:
Oppose Alternative Exelon Merger Proposal!
by Chris Weiss, DC Environmental Network
Protect District Ratepayers, Oppose the PSC's Alternative Exelon Merger Settlement Proposal!
DC Environmental Network:
Hard to believe it, but if new, alternative, Public Service Commission (PSC) settlement provisions are adopted into the Exelon/Pepco merger settlement agreement, it will undermine a major component that both the Mayor and People's Counsel were banking on.
The NEW alternative settlement proposal, if adopted, does NOT do what Mayor Bowser and People's Counsel, Sandra Mattavous-Frye, want the agreement to do.
Here is what happened:
- Technically, the PSC has twice rejected the Exelon/Pepco merger as not in the public interest. First by rejecting the original merger proposal, and second by rejecting the proposed settlement agreement.
- Last Friday, to a surprised audience, the Public Service Commission, passed, by a 2-1 vote, proposed changes to the settlement agreement, that if accepted by all relevant parties in the next two weeks, would deem the merger approved. It would not even have to come back to the PSC Commissioners for consideration. This option was presented by Commissioner Fort, as a way of making the merger "in the public interest", and was supported by Commissioner Phillips.
- Unfortunately, to the contrary, the proposed changes would make the old settlement agreement, which already had huge problems, and had been deemed not in the public interest, even worse. This new, alternative deal, was counter to the wishes of Mayor Bowser and People's Counsel, Sandra Mattavous Frye, as it would make it possible for rate increases to occur soon after the merger is approved.
- More specifically, the NEW PSC proposed deal removes the millions of dollars that Mayor Bowser had negotiated to "offset" expected residential rate increases until 2019. Attorney General Karl Racine called this mechanism an "essential protection" in yesterday's Washington Post. Without this offset, rate hikes could hit ratepayers within a year.
- In addition, as if things are not bad enough, the alternative settlement removes $9 million from the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). So, not only will our electric rates increase, but those least able to afford the increases will be harmed the most. We can't afford this.
DCEN believes these changes make a bad merger plan even worse, and are, most certainly, not in the public interest, and should be roundly and aggressively opposed by ALL stakeholders.
DCEN is hopeful that Mayor Bowser and People's Counsel, Sandra Mattavous-Frye, already understand how their own provisions, and fundamental stated reasons for supporting the merger, are being attacked with this new proposal.
We need your help to let them know you want this deal rejected.
Tell the Mayor and People's Counsel, we can do better, REJECT this NEW, BAD, deal.
Working with PowerDC, DCEN and many others, have strived the last 20 months to counter the overwhelming corporate resources Exelon has put into forcing their antiquated, unsustainable, business model onto our community. We have had some credible success. Now we have a chance to all come together and jointly do the right thing for ratepayers and the environment.
If the Mayor and People's Counsel reject this misguided deal, we all have a chance of ending up with something much better.
Chris Weiss, Executive Director, DC Environmental Network
DCEN Capital Climate Coalition 2016
by DC Environmental Network
"…research shows that coastal flooding days have more than doubled in the US since the 1980s, the primary drivers of which have been the warming of the atmosphere and oceans. The findings are based on a separate study, released on Monday, that found the Earth's seas are rising at a pace unseen in the past 2,800 years."
– The Guardian, February 23, 2016
DC Environmental Network:
Climate change is here, but so are many of the solutions needed to both mitigate and adapt to our planets new, human created, reality. The DC Environmental Network is going to continue to do its part to make sure our capital city is minimally matching, and sometimes even leading, national and global, climate mitigation and adaptation efforts.
In the coming year we will be very busy. Some of our Capital Climate Coalition activities will include:
– Democracy Awakening & DC Fair Elections Bill: DCEN will be working to support action on climate change by demanding a democracy that works for all of us, and were money does not buy access and power. (Something we have struggled with as corporations like Wal-Mart and Exelon have spent hundreds of millions of dollars to bully DC decision makers to do their bidding.) To do this DCEN will be (is) advocating for the DC Fair Elections Bill, that empowers small donors and ensure that the voices of everyday DC residents are heard. We will also participate, at some level, in the supportive Democracy Awakening activities later this year.
– Working to Support and Expand the District's Sustainable DC Goals that Support Renewables: The District has a lot of work to reach their 50% renewables target by 2032. There is a lot of opportunity, if existing laws and targets are taken seriously, to meet and surpass District goals. DCEN will be working with the Council and Executive branch to better implement existing laws, strengthen the Districts Renewable Portfolio Standard, and support grid modernization efforts.
– DC Carbon Tax: Working with the Chesapeake Climate Action Network, and many others, DCEN is exploring the possibility of putting a price on carbon pollution that could both clear a better path for a faster transition to clean energy, and create, through rebates, meaningful resources for low and middle income District residents. This campaign could be both a climate and poverty mitigation effort.
– DCEN Networking & Education: Just to start, in the next two months, DCEN will be sponsoring important conversations about climate mitigation and adaptation that you are all welcome to participate in. At our March networking event we will be exploring grid modernization efforts. Our April networking event will include a briefing on the District's DRAFT climate adaptation plan. See details below.
Time to start digging in! Here are some opportunities to engage. Hope you can join us.
► Public Service Commission: One Last Chance to Say No to Exelon!
The Public Service Commission (PSC) is scheduled to make their final decision on the proposed Exelon/Pepco merger tomorrow. SEE PSC Meeting Agenda HERE! As we have said many times, nothing in the settlement agreement, negotiated by Mayor Bowser, warrants changing the August 25th, 2015, unanimous decision by the PSC.
The DC Environmental Network is, to a degree, optimistic that the PSC will, courageously, look past the hundreds of millions of dollars Exelon has spent to buy a different outcome, oppose the merger, and roll up their sleeves to work even harder towards creating a reliable, affordable, clean energy future.
The District of Columbia, our nation's capital city, and the planet, deserve nothing less.
► DCEN March Networking Event: Grid Modernization & Renewables!
On Thursday, March 3rd at NOON, join the DC Environmental Network (DCEN) and DC Climate Action, for DCEN's monthly briefing and networking opportunity. Our program is entitled: "Addressing Climate Challenges through Grid Modernization and Integration of Renewables: New Trends & Best Practices: DistribuTech 2016 Highlights"
The event will be held at the offices of Green Cross International and Friends of the Earth, 1101 15th Street NW, 11th Floor. You must RSVP here to attend this special program.
Our panel:
- Joe Paladino, U.S. Department of Energy (DOE): Senior Advisor, DOE Office of Electricity Delivery and Energy Reliability
- Edward Yim, D.C. Department of Energy and the Environment (DOEE): Associate Director, DOEE Energy Administration
- Nina Dodge, DC Climate Action (DCCA): Chair, DCCA Energy and Utilities Committee
- Chris Weiss, Executive Director, DC Environmental Network (DCEN), Global Green USA – Moderator
The three panelists will report back on new developments in energy distribution issues featured at the national DistribuTech Conference held in Orlando, in February 2016. These highlights will provide helpful context for the current DC Public Service Commission's open, multi-party investigation into "Modernizing the Energy Delivery Structure for Increased Sustainability."
You must RSVP here to attend this special program. All are welcome!
► DCEN April Networking Event: Briefing/Discussion on District DRAFT Climate Adaptation Plan.
Mark your calendar. On Thursday, April 7th at NOON, join the DC Environmental Network (DCEN) for our monthly networking event featuring a briefing and open conversation about the DC DRAFT Climate Adaption Plan.
The District Department of Energy & Environment (DOEE) has generously made themselves available to us, as part of extensive public outreach efforts, to give DCEN participants a chance to give advice, and share our thoughts, on what will become the final plan. We also hope to learn about what other U.S. cities are doing. (Might also be useful to learn what cities outside of the U.S. are doing as well. We will work on that.)
The event will be held at the offices of Green Cross International and Friends of the Earth, 1101 15th Street NW, 11th Floor. You must RSVP here to attend this special program. Our panelists so far include:
- Kate Johnson, Climate Programs Analyst, District Department of Energy & Environment
- Georgetown Climate Center (Invited)
- Chris Weiss, Executive Director, DC Environmental Network (DCEN), Global Green USA – Moderator
You must RSVP here to attend this special program. All are welcome!
DCEN in March: Climate & Grid Modernization!
by Chris Weiss, DC Environmental Network, Global Green USA
On Thursday, March 3rd at NOON, join the DC Environmental Network (DCEN) and DC Climate Action, for DCEN's monthly briefing and networking opportunity.
Our program is entitled: "Addressing Climate Challenges through Grid Modernization and Integration of Renewables: New Trends & Best Practices: DistribuTech 2016 Highlights"
The event will be held at the offices of Green Cross International and Friends of the Earth, 1101 15th Street NW, 11th Floor.
You must RSVP here to attend this special program.
Our panel:
- Joe Paladino, U.S. Department of Energy (DOE): Senior Advisor, DOE Office of Electricity Delivery and Energy Reliability
- Edward Yim, D.C. Department of Energy and the Environment (DOEE): Associate Director, DOEE Energy Administration
- Nina Dodge, DC Climate Action (DCCA): Chair, DCCA Energy and Utilities Committee
- Chris Weiss, Executive Director, DC Environmental Network (DCEN), Global Green USA – Moderator
The three panelists will report back on new developments in energy distribution issues featured at the national DistribuTech Conference held in Orlando, in February 2016. These highlights will provide helpful context for the current DC Public Service Commission's open, multi-party investigation into "Modernizing the Energy Delivery Structure for Increased Sustainability."
You must RSVP here to attend this special program.
All are welcome!
Join Democracy Awakening!
by Chris Weiss, DC Environmental Network
Join Democracy Awakening!
DC Environmental Network:
Today, DCEN is thrilled to share something huge: This April, thousands will mobilize in Washington, D.C., to spur a Democracy Awakening like never before. From April 16-18, we will gather in our nation's capital to Rally for Democracy and call for a Congress of Conscience.
The movements for voting rights, money in politics reform, climate, labor, women's, immigrant and LGBTQ justice and others are coming together to deliver a resounding message to our nation's leaders:
We demand a democracy that works for all of us – where we have an equal voice and elected officials are accountable to the people and the public interest.
If that's a vision you want to be a part of, sign up to stay engaged. The Awakening will feature exciting panels and workshops, music, inspiring speakers and activists like you from around the country, joining together to demand solutions.
When the U.S. Supreme Court issued Citizens United back in 2010, it undermined the integrity of the vote by allowing billionaires and wealthy special interests to drown out our voices. And in 2013, the Supreme Court dealt democracy another blow when it gutted a key provision of the Voting Rights Act in its Shelby County decision.
We are mobilizing in April to counter these undemocratic rulings and ensure both the right to vote and the integrity of the vote are upheld in this crucial election year.
Our elected officials have yet to act and we must hold them accountable.
Whether you care about climate change, racial justice, fair wages, or ever-increasing student debt, change is possible only when we stand together.
A coalition of more than 100 groups, from the NAACP to MoveOn.org, the LGBTQ Task Force to the National Organization for Women, the Postal Workers of America to Public Citizen, have already jumped on board to make this April action historic.
It will take all of us. But together, we'll awaken the democracy we all deserve.
In solidarity,
Chris Weiss, Executive Director, DC Environmental Network
Briefing: Chemical Safety and Security
by Chris Weiss, DC Environmental Network
Chemical Safety and Security: Dealing with Global and National Threats
Join Green Cross International, DCEN, and others, for a briefing on "Chemical Safety and Security: Dealing with Global and National Threats."
- Wednesday, February 10th, 2016, 1:30 – 3:30 PM
- Offices of Green Cross International
- 1101 15th St. NW, Suite 1100 (Friends of the Earth), Washington DC
Threats and challenges linked to the globalization and spread of chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear (CBRN) industries and materials require global responses that move beyond politics and internationalize best existing practices and innovative solutions.
The main chemical threats today come from both rogue states and from non-state actors. Such has been the case with the repeated, systematic use of toxic chemicals such as chlorine against civilians in Syria. We've also witnessed major chemical accidents such as last year's Tianjin disaster in China. [See picture above.]
Efforts to develop a global approach to chemical safety and security are quickly becoming a reality. High standards of security and safety must be promoted in the whole chain of chemical activities as an important barrier against chemical weapons proliferation and terrorism. Amb. Paturej will also address the forthcoming global conference, April 18-20, 2016, in Kielce, Poland (see www.chemss2016.org) on chemical safety and security.
- Ambassador Krzysztof Paturej, President, International Center for Chemical Safety and Security (ICCSS), Warsaw, Poland
- Ambassador Bonnie Jenkins, U.S. Department of State, Representative of the President for Threat Reduction Programs, Washington DC
- Supervisory Special Agent Brian Hayes, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Washington DC
- Ms. Amy Graydon, Chief, Policy and Rulemaking Branch, Office of Infrastructure Protection, Department of Homeland Security, Washington DC
- Dr. Paul F. Walker, Director, Environmental Security and Sustainability, Green Cross International (GCI), Washington DC (Chair)
Coffee and refreshments will be served.
RSVP to Anna Tserelova, email@example.com .
DC Council Oversight Hearings 2016
by Chris Weiss, DC Environmental Network
DC Environmental Network:
This year is turning out to be a big one. I wanted take a moment to remind you of a couple things:
1. DCEN MONTHLY NETWORKING EVENT TOMORROW @ NOON: Join DCEN tomorrow (February 4th) at NOON for our monthly networking event featuring Dr. Carol Graham of the Brookings Institution, who will give DCEN participants a briefing entitled, "Beyond GNP? What the new "science" of well-being can contribute to economics and to policy." This will be the first of a series of conversations as DCEN moves towards launching a new initiative to create a well-being index in the District.
IMPORTANT: This briefing and discussion, will be held at the NEW offices of Friends of the Earth & Green Cross International, 1101 15th Street NW, 11th Floor (Just across the street from their old offices.) You must RSVP HERE to participate.
2. JOIN DCEN & PARTICIPATE IN DC COUNCIL PERFORMANCE OVERSIGHT HEARINGS: DCEN hopes other organizations and activists will participate in the upcoming DC Council performance oversight hearings. This is a chance to tell the Council and the Mayor (and agency directors) what you think about their job over the last year. DCEN will be testifying at the hearings that are focused on the work of the District Department of Energy and the Environment (DOEE) and the District Department of Public Works (DPW). To learn more please take a look at the links below.
Hope you will consider participating!
Chris Weiss, Executive Director, DC Environmental Network
From the Council website:
Schedule for the Council's Performance Oversight and Budget Hearings.
From now through the spring, each and every District agency will appear twice before the committees that hold jurisdiction over them. On the first go-around, they will be questioned regarding their performance across the previous fiscal year. In the second visit, their proposed budget for the coming fiscal year will be discussed.
For a more extensive but deeply readable summary of the District's budget process, please check out the budget section of our Council 101 writeup.
To view the schedule and pertinent materials for Performance and Budget Oversight hearings, please view the following pages:
Hope you can join DCEN for one of these hearings! We will be contacting specific organizations and individuals to try and generate additional participation.
DCEN Announcements – February 1, 2016
by Chris Weiss, DC Environmental Network
DCEN February Networking Event!
Join DCEN for our monthly briefing and networking event!
This month's panelist, Dr. Carol Graham, has prepared a briefing which incorporates the findings of her new, above mentioned book. This briefing is entitled "Beyond GNP? What the New "Science" of Well-Being Can Contribute to Economics and to Policy."
This DCEN briefing and networking event will be held at 12:00 NOON at the NEW capital city offices of Green Cross International and Friends of the Earth, 1101 15th Street, 11th Floor, in Washington, DC. All are welcome.
Panel Background:
- – Carol Graham, Leo Pasvolsky Senior Fellow in Global Economy and Development at the Brookings Institution & Professor at the University of Maryland's School of Public Policy. [Presenter] See bio info here.
- – Chris Weiss, Executive Director, DC Environmental Network, Director, Washington DC Office, Global Green USA [Moderator]
Governments around the world have been re-designing and collecting well-being metrics to complement those that are in traditional economic indicators. The ultimate goal of these efforts is to better inform policy decisions and possibly inspire higher levels of wellbeing in our communities. The City of Santa Monica's Wellbeing Project is an example of such an initiative. Carol Graham will brief the DC Environmental Network (DCEN) on this emerging trend and the growing science behind it.
Dr. Graham will also make copies of her new book "The Pursuit of Happiness: An Economy of Well-Being" available for purchase. This important "Brookings Focus Book" explores "the promise and pitfalls of injecting the "economics of happiness" into public policymaking."
(DCEN will give away one copy of the book to the first three individuals and/or organization that brings five participants to participate in the conversation.)
DCEN hopes to start a conversation and help launch a new campaign to convince the DC government to start its own well-being index project. We believe this approach could show policy makers more clearly how incorporating sustainability principles into decision making may be a more effective strategy for creating happy and healthy communities in the District of Columbia.
Our briefing will start with introductions and an opportunity for sustainability focused organizations to share an idea or upcoming event. There will also be opportunities to network before and after the informal presentation.
All are welcome!
Department of Public Works & DCEN Start 2016 with a Bang!
A new era of transparency and openness at the DC Department of Public Works!
At the invitation of Chris Shorter, Acting Director of the District's Department of Public Works (DPW), and Annie White, who manages DPW's Office of Waste Diversion, DCEN helped coordinate the first meeting of regional zero waste advocates with the agency in 2016.
A number of DC focused organizations, and others, many who want to see the District incorporate more zero waste programs and policies, participated, including the Institute for Local Self Reliance, Sierra Club – DC Chapter, Global Green USA, Trash Free Maryland, Alice Ferguson Foundation, Anacostia Watershed Society, Anacostia Riverkeeper, Energy Justice Network, Building Materials Reuse Association and IMG Rebel (partial).
Director Shorter and Annie White led an informative discussion that included updates on the interagency waste reduction working group, zero waste plan, and zero waste policies related to the executive's Sustainable DC plan. There was ample time for questions and comments.
The DC Environmental Network congratulates the DC Department of Public Works for really going out of their way, in the last year, to be transparent and open with the sustainability community and public, on solid waste issues. This is something we have not seen at the agency for a long time. Looking forward to a productive year.
International Honors Program Visits DOEE!
Thanks District Department of Energy and the Environment (DOEE) for participating is this global discussion!
For the last 3-4 years DCEN has helped coordinate briefings for participants from theSchool of International Learning's International Honors Program (IHP). The IHP is a comprehensive four-month experience focused on health and the community that this year starts in DC, then moves on to Delhi (India), Cape Town (South Africa) and ends in Sao Paulo (Brazil).
This year DCEN coordinated a meeting for the students with Ronda Chapman, who organizes equity and community engagement programs for the District Department of Energy and the Environment (DOEE).
We had an excellent exchange focused on environmental justice and general equity issues within the District of Columbia.