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Spinal stenosis has been called "baby boomer back" by such medical groups as The American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons because it is most commonly found among patients who are 50+ years old. This condition involves a narrowing of the spaces within the patient's spine, which can put pressure on the nerves that travel through the spine. Spinal stenosis can occur in the lower back and the neck.
Until recently, it was thought to be caused by wear-and-tear changes in the spine related to osteoarthritis, and in many cases, there were few, if any, symptoms until the pain began. However, recently published research has shed some light on the causes of this painful condition, and they may be genetically based.
The new study published in the Journal of Orthopaedic Research suggests that "certain genetic changes are linked with an increased risk of developing lumbar spinal stenosis that can lead to pain in the legs when individuals walk."
The results of this groundbreaking study among 469 individuals (ages 18-55) provide insights into the potential causes of spinal stenosis. Senior author Dr. Dino Samartzis said, "With a better understanding of the condition and the identification of genetic markers, individuals who are at increased risk can be identified early and preventative measures can be initiated. The information may also help investigators develop more novel and precision-based management options for affected patients."
Dr. Rey Bosita, a spine surgeon in the Dallas-Fort Worth area and a member of the referral line of Texas Health Spine & Orthopedic Center, has treated many patients with spinal stenosis. He offered insights about the current treatment and the ramifications of having genetic markers for this condition.
Where Spinal Stenosis can Occur
Spinal stenosis affects 8 to 11 percent of the population according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). It is in a group of several conditions, such as osteoarthritis, cognitive impairment and hormonal deficiencies that affect older patients.
"Most of the patients that I treat for this condition are 50 years and older," Dr. Bosita said. "Although x-rays can show arthritis of the spine or even instability, most cases will require an MRI or CT scan to diagnose spinal stenosis accurately.
"Spinal stenosis can occur in the neck or low back. Cervical stenosis is a narrowing of the spinal canal in the neck area. Lumbar stenosis–the most common location for spinal stenosis–is found in the lower back. Unfortunately, it is possible for patients to experience stenosis in both their neck and low back at the same time.
The Symptoms of Stenosis
The symptoms for spinal stenosis vary depending on the location, and, once they begin, they typically worsen over time.
"A patient with stenosis in the neck area can experience several symptoms," Dr. Bosita said. "These include numbness or tingling or weakness in the hands and arms, problems with walking and balance, neck pain, and–in severe cases–bowel or bladder dysfunction (urinary and/or bowel incontinence).
"Those with stenosis of the lower back area can experience numbness, tingling or weakness in the legs or feet, pain or cramping in one or both legs when they stand or walk (which usually eases when the patient bends forward or sits), and even severe back pain."
Struggling with neck or back pain? Contact our referral line to take the hassle out of your search for a treatment specialist.
The Causes of Stenosis
Before the release of this study on the genetic markers for this condition, spinal stenosis was thought to be caused by age- and activity-related wear and tear, injuries to the spine, and even compression from nerves in an unstable spine.
Dr. Bosita noted, "The current medical literature on spinal stenosis highlights the following causes:
- Overgrowth of bone. The wear and tear damage from osteoarthritis on a patient's spinal bones can prompt the formation of bone spurs, which can grow into the spinal canal and compress spinal nerves.
- Herniated disks. The soft cushions that act as "shock absorbers" between vertebrae tend to dry out with age. Cracks in a disk's exterior may allow some of the soft inner material to escape and compress the spinal cord or nerves.
- Thickened ligaments. The ligaments that help hold the bones of the spine together can become stiff and thickened over time. These can bulge into the spinal canal and narrow it further.
- Spinal injuries. Car accidents and other trauma can cause dislocations or fractures of one or more vertebrae. Displaced bone from a spinal fracture may narrow the spinal canal and damage the spinal cord and spinal nerves
- Instability. Many people with spondylolisthesis or spinal instability will develop symptoms of spinal stenosis as nerves are trapped in an unstable spine.
- Tumors. Abnormal masses can form inside the spinal cord, within the membranes that cover the spinal cord, or in the space between the spinal cord and vertebrae to compress spinal nerves.
"Assuming this research holds up to further analysis, we will need to add genetic markers to this list for the onset of lumbar stenosis."
What Does This Research Mean for Treatment?
The results of this study have the potential for changing the way spinal stenosis is diagnosed and treated.
"In this study, the researchers were trying to identify possible single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) that are associated with developmental spinal stenosis," Dr. Bosita said. "Using genomic statistical analyses of the 469 participants they accomplished this.
Why is this genetic research so important?
"With a better understanding of the spinal stenosis phenotype and genetic markers, patients at-risk for spinal stenosis can be identified earlier, whether they are exhibiting symptoms or not," he said. "This would allow patients to initiate preventative measures, including lifestyle and activity modifications and improving core strengthening and range of motion. In the future gene therapy, vaccines, and other completely non-invasive treatments could be developed specifically for patients with a genetic predisposition to develop spinal stenosis so they never ever have to feel pain or weakness from stenosis–now that would be a huge game-changer!
Are you concerned about spinal stenosis? Contact the Texas Health Spine & Orthopedic Center referral line for an appointment.


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In a world exactly where everything appears to have a hurried plot and rushed, the best thing that you can have is a few time to relax, remove the tension, and merely not be worried about other things. Getting to cope with all the deadlines and all sorts of the projects and everything that requirements to be used cared of just builds up in your own body that whenever they are not launched, you end up getting sick or just shutting down. Whenever that occurs, this will need you a few time to recharge and become back to what you had been before. But if you are taking a few time every day to relieve yourself of all these negative things, a person do not really danger that long time period of recuperation.
Get yourself some organic soy candles. They are going to be more compared to useful to you than simply bringing some mild into your home. See, these candles have a lot of benefits that you can make use of to your benefit. And you do not require concern yourself with getting actually more sick simply because of these types of candles because they are organic so that means they are natural, clean, pure, and unblemished by any kind of chemical. Which should work very well for a person.
Soy wax is famous to end up being the best type of organic wax if you want to include in some fragrances or you would like to add some color to make the candle appear actually more fascinating than simply plain white. But of course, that depends on how you would like the candle to appear. Anyhow, because of this property which soy wax has, it has been a favorite among candle makers. And that is how organic soy candles enter into being.
Now you understand just how well soy wax works together with scents and with colors, then you definitely will realize that another benefit that organic soy candles has is actually its capability to turn out to be the centerpiece for a lonely table or maybe be the design for a room that could have been really boring without them. Just put a few of the greatest organic soy wax candles you've prepared and you get an item of design that's enjoyable to the eye
To find out more, check out organic soy candles and bulk soy candles

subset: commoncrawl


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Competia Executive Education better prepares executives, managers and analysts with an in-depth, targeted understanding of their strategic and competitive environment.
Rather than theoretical in nature, training with Competia is highly interactive: utilizing role playing, games, case studies, videos, and hands-on workshops that make learning last. Training sessions can be run in-house (if you want your entire team to be trained together, and need to discuss confidential information and real case studies), or in a public session which will allow your analysts, managers and executives to learn from peers.
Over 50% of Competia course participants sign up because of a referral from a colleague - word of mouth that speaks for itself.
"I gained tremendous value from it - which has been unmatched!" - Beth, U.S. defence company


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Melcher & Prescott's Individual Heath Insurance Exchange
Options for New Hampshire Individuals
Regardless of your current coverage everyone is advised to reevaluate their plan as there may now be options that better suit your needs.
Pricing is the same whether you go direct, use the exchange or get advice from our knowledgeable advisors.
Penalties for not having health insurance in 2016…
- 2.5% of your yearly household income (Only the amount of income above the tax filing threshold, about $10,150 for an individual in 2014, is used to calculate the penalty.) The maximum penalty is the national average premium for a Bronze plan.
- $695 per person ($347.50 per child under 18) The maximum penalty per family using this method is $2,085.
Important dates for 2018 enrollment
- November 1, 2017: Open Enrollment starts — first day you can enroll in a 2018 insurance plan through the Health Insurance Marketplace. Coverage can start as soon as January 1, 2018.
- December 15, 2017: Open Enrollment ends. After December 15, you can still buy a health plan if you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period.
- January 1, 2018: 2018 coverage starts for those who enroll or change plans by December 15.


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A dentist in Greenwich Village has been arrested on child porn charges and investigators are questioning if any of his underage patients might have been abused or videotaped at his offices, NBC 4 New York has learned.
FBI, NYPD and DEA agents raided the offices of John Wolf, 59, on West 15th Street Friday morning. A criminal complaint alleges Wolf used that office as a place to view and distribute child pornography.
In recorded conversations with an FBI undercover agent, Wolf allegedly admitted he had child pornography and gave the agent a flash drive that had videos of children as young as toddlers being raped by adult men, among other pornographic media.
In addition to child porn allegations, Wolf is also facing narcotics distribution charges. Some of the allegations include giving free dental work to a drug dealer in exchange for a supply of crystal meth. He allegedly used some of the meth himself and distribute some to others, according to the complaint.
A call to Wolf's office seeking comment was not returned. His lawyer said outside Brooklyn court Friday that he and his client were looking into a case of possible government entrapment.


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Work out in the fully equipped fitness centre on state of the art cardio and strength equipment including:
- treadmills and cross trainers
- upright and recumbent stationary bicycles
- rowing machines
- cybex pin-loaded strength machines
- group fitness program.
Members Active Carrot Log In
Membership includes
- unlimited access to the fitness centre and swimming pools
- entry to group fitness classes and aquafit classes
- fitness appraisal and exercise program designed by qualified exercise professionals
- use of creche for children in your immediate family aged 3 months up to but not including 6 years of age
- parking permit for carpark 14
- 20% discount in the sports shop (excluding sale items).
Membership options
Term contracts are available for one, three, six and 12 month terms and are paid in full at the time of application.
Direct debit contracts offer the convenience of monthly payments over a 12 month fixed term.
The flexi debit option is a perpetual contract with no fixed expiry and unlimited suspension time*. This option is ideal for people who travel extensively or are away for prolonged periods of time. *Terms and conditions apply.
Off peak contracts offer access to the centre between 11.00 am–4.00 pm Monday to Friday only.
Youth membership is available to youth 14 to 17 years old. Membership contracts entered into by persons under the age of 16 years must be signed by a parent or guardian.
Membership prices
(Follow the highlighted links to our membership portal to purchase online)
|Membership fees
Off peak
Youth 14-17yrs
Joining fee
1 month
3 months
6 months
12 months
Direct debit
(per month)
(per month)
Flexi debit
(per month)
(per month)
Payment options
Upfront contracts are paid in full at the time of application.
Direct debit (12 month term) contracts commit to making monthly payments.
- one upfront payment is required at the time of joining (charged pro rata for the first month)
- payments will be debited from your nominated account or credit card on the 15th day of every month
- direct debit members must comply with the LINKS PAY DDR agreement
- a rejection fee of $10 will be charged to accounts with insufficient funds.
Concession rates are available to holders of a valid concession card (Department of Veteran Affairs, pension, senior, health care, full-time student) presented at the time of joining.
Membership suspensions
The centre offers you the convenience of suspending your membership. Suspension time is to be used within the current membership term and cannot be rolled over into a new contract. Suspension application forms are available at reception and must be received at least five days before the date of suspension. Suspension time cannot be back dated.
Allowable suspension time:
|Membership types
|Minimum suspension time allowed each time
|Maximum suspension time allowed
|1 month term
|3 month term
|7 days
|14 days
|6 month term
|7 days
|28 days
|12 month term
|7 days
|56 days
|Flexi debit
|7 days
|180 days each suspension
Membership cancellation
Cancellation requests must be received at least five days in advance of the cancellation date and will incur a $75 cancellation fee.
There is no charge for cancelling a flexi debit contract after the minimum three month term. A $75 fee applies to any cancellations made within the first three months of this membership.
Cancellation dates cannot be backdated. Any refunds exclude the joining fee.
What you need to know about membership
- members are required to scan their membership ID card every time they enter the facility
- lost IDs incur a replacement fee
- appropriate workout clothing and enclosed sport shoes are required to be worn in the fitness centre
- a personal workout towel is required for use on all gym equipment including exercise mats
- the conditions, facilities and programs provided may be varied or changed at any time and without notice
- members are responsible for the safe operation and correct technique required for the proper use of fitness equipment. Gym instructors are available for assistance and instruction.
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By rethinking the region's infrastructure to support active lifestyles, southern West Virginians can improve their health and wellness with more opportunities to get outside and exercise, while increasing economic activity and job creation.
Active SWV Bike/Walk is committed to making walking and biking safe, fun, and convenient by advocating for protected bike lanes, safe and complete streets for pedestrians, fitness trails, and a network of connected hiking trails.
Getting Started in Mount Hope, WV
Active SWV's Pedestrian, Bike and Trail Coordinator, Andy Davis, began working through the Americorps VISTA program with the town of Mount Hope in early 2016. Together their focus has been on the development of a connected network of pedestrian infrastructure whereby both the town's population and visitors may exercise, walk, run, hike, and bike in a safe environment. The projects seek to leverage the town's historical past to attract visitors interested in adventure and cultural tourism. These efforts will create opportunities for the town's population to become more physically active and, in turn, strengthen the local workforce to serve both the budding tourism industry and new businesses attracted to the region.
Active SWV Bike/Walk has specifically worked in Mount Hope to develop safe streets for pedestrians, a "Complete Streets" approach to city development, a designated 1-mile fitness trail, and the establishment of a Rails-to-Trails all in conjunction with the city's Comprehensive Plan for redevelopment. Mount Hope is the future home of the planned Coal Heritage Discovery Center which will act as a central hub to the city's trails and active living amenities.
View the Mount Hope Historic Walking Tour Window Art Guide here.
View the Mount Hope Historic Walking Tour Complete Guide here.
The City of Mount Hope has added the Bike/Walk Mount Hope page to its website with more information about the projects Active SWV Bike/Walk is assisting with!
Active SWV board of directors members and community stakeholders at the site of the future Coal Heritage Discovery Center in Mount Hope.
The following are some announcements and updates from local media outlets covering our activities and projects:
- 2/25/16 – Mount Hope plans trails to tie in with other budding initiatives
- 5/19/16 – Mount Hope plans bike projects in hopes of getting more people active
- 8/11/16 – Mount Hope moves forward with Biking initiatives
- 10/10/16 – Active SWV, Bicycle Union teaming up for Bridge Day bicycle valet service
- 1/13/17 – Mount Hope Vows to be More Bike-Friendly
- 4/11/17 – Mount Hope gets funding help for trail project
- 2/7/18 – Two artists chosen for Mount Hope Mural
- 2/23/18 – Mural to be Step Toward Mount Hope Revitalization
- 3/24/19 – Walking Through History
Fayette Tribune
- 2/22/16 – Bike, Trail Coordinator Named
- 2/29/16 – Mount Hope plans trails to tie in with other budding activities
- 8/18/16 – Mount Hope moves forward with biking initiatives
- 4/17/17 – Mount Hope gets help with Trail
- 1/6/17 – Complete Streets Policy set to pass in Mount Hope
- 4/6/17 – Fayetteville Businesses Receive Bicycle Friendly Designation
- 4/20/17 – Mount Hope Phoenix Fitness Trail
Charleston Gazette-Mail
League of American Bicyclists – Bicycle Friendly America Program
Active SWV Bike/Walk uses a variety of guidelines in its facilitation and assistance of bike and pedestrian improvements, including the standards set forth by the League of American Bicyclists. After submitting an application to be officially recognized as a Bicycle Friendly Community, Mount Hope, WV received an Honorable Mention in May 2017! In addition to the public commendation, the city also received valuable feedback on what further steps can be taken to earn a higher ranking. And most importantly, this feedback will guide Mount Hope towards becoming more bike/walk friendly!
- 5/11/17 – Spring 2017 Bicycle Friendly Communities Announced
- 11/19 Beckley Becoming a Bike Friendly Community, Recieives Honorable Mention
Active SWV plans to continue to make use of these guidelines to assist communities in southern West Virginia develop strategies for pedestrian, bicycle and trail improvements.
West Virginia Explorer
Visit Southern West Virginia
Stepping out in Beckley, WV
Active SWV Bike/Walk to be working with the City of Beckley, WV on its Bike Beckley initiative. The group began meeting in 2017 to embark on becoming more bicycle and pedestrian friendly. This group, which includes elected officials, city employees, and community members who are interested in becoming involved in Bike/Walk efforts, meets the 2nd Wednesday of every month. As one of West Virginia's population centers, Beckley has lots of potential for improvements and great ideas!
Register Herald
- 4/29/18 – Bike Beckley is Turning Heads outside West Virginia.
- 7/6/18 – Bicycle Racks installed on New River Transit Buses
Active SWV How-To Guide for Bike/Walk Communities in southern West Virginia
The staff of Active Southern West Virginia seeks to help the communities of southern West Virginia reach their fullest potential in providing opportunities for people to be physically active. Communities are made up of people and communities should be accessible to people, by all modes of movement! Active Southern West Virginia can offer support to the communities of southern West Virginia that seek to become more bicycle friendly. Our Active SWV Bike/Walk program and its staff will work alongside members of your community to assess the best ways to plan the transition.
We hope our How-To Guide for Bike/Walk Communities can assist with efforts in your community to facilitate more opportunities for physical activities. Please use it as a workbook to identify the ways to increase connectivity and safety for bikes and pedestrians on a path towards a more Active community!
Bike/Walk is an initiative of Active Southern West Virginia, located within the offices of the New River Gorge Regional Development Authority.


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Brewers trade Ryan Cordell for RP Anthony Swarzak. Swarzak is having a really good year, with a 2.23 ERA in 48 innings. He also averaged over a strikeout per inning.
Cordell is having a good year in a very hitter friendly environment. He was blocked in the majors since he's primarily an outfielder. He's also 25 and never tasted the bigs.
I'm okay giving up Cordell and Swarzak is a good pitcher it seems. However, I'm a bit surprised we moved Cordell for a rental. Seems like a bit of a steeper price for 20-3 innings. But we need relief help. All in all it's kind of a mediocre deal for me. I wish we had more control, but Cordell isn't a major piece anyway.


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Women's Jewellery » bag charms
Add some descriptive text to your all collections page.
Women's fashion accessories
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You've probably heard the expression, "It's all in the details"—a maxim never so true as in fashion. Women's accessories are the cherry on top of any great outfit, and can be the...
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Rimmel London Scandal Eyes Waterproof Kohl Eyeliner 002 Sparkling Black
Hello Everyone,
I hope you read my detailed review on the Brown Eyeliner from Rimmel London Scandal Eyes Kohl Eyeliner range. Today I am going to show you all yet another beautiful shade which is Sparkling Black 002.
Kohl eyeliners have been the latest rage among eyeliner addicts as it serves as a great 2 in 1 product. Lets see what the brand claims about these kohl eyeliners.
About Rimmel London Scandal Eyes Waterproof Kohl Eyeliner 002 Sparkling Black
Long lasting shocking color intensity with kohl Britania High intensity color for an instant color impact Ultra smooth & creamy formula that glides on easily Waterproof, smudge-proof, sweat-proof, heat-proof, humidity-proof and scandal- proof Dermatologist & ophthalmologist tested. Safe for sensitive eyes.
Price-INR 4.49
Ingredients-ISODODECANE, HYDROGENATED POLYCYCLOPENTADIENE, POLYETHYLENE, CYCLOPENTASILOXANE, PARAFFIN, POLYETHYLENE TEREPHTHALATE, PERFLUORONONYL DIMETHICONE, POLYBUTENE, SILICA, CAPRYLIC/CAPRIC TRIGLYCERIDE, HYDROGENATED PALM KERNEL GLYCERIDES, HYDROGENATED PALM GLYCERIDES, TALC, STEARALKONIUM HECTORITE, POLYURETHANE-11, PROPYLENE CARBONATE, TIN OXIDE
Packaging: These waterproof kohl eyeliners are in a pencil form and have a creamy tip which is secured by a transparent cap to protect the tip from damage. The body of each pencil is of the same color as that of the shade of the kohl. These kohl pencils need sharpening as the tip gets over quickly.
Shade– Sparkling black is a shade true to its name and it bears visible shimmers when swatched on the skin. The pigmentation is quite superb in a single swipe and tends to a vibrant look on the eyes. The sparkling shimmers make it look almost greyish!
Texture– The texture of this kohl eyeliner is rich & creamy and tends to glide easily on the crease of the eyes. Some shades of the range are matte while some bear a subtle sheen or sparkle which looks great when applied on the eyes.
My Experience with Rimmel London Scandal Eyes Waterproof Kohl Eyeliner 002 Sparkling Black
Well, the shade Sparkling black is more of a dirt grey shade than a real black shade with skimmers. The shade looks decent when applied on the eyes. You can easily smudge it a little to get that perfect smoked effect.
The shade is going to disappoint those who thought it would be an intense black shade with visible sparkles.
The shiny sparkles are well infused and that is why the shade looks grey.
The texture is amazing and glides so perfectly without tugging the eyelids. It is rich and creamy and requires minimum effort to apply it on the eyes.
The color payoff is quite decent and it gives a nice stroke of color on the eyes in a single swipe itself.
You can also use it on the inner crease area as a greyish eye shadow for casual outings! 🙂
The fact that these are waterproof eyeliners make them an ideal choice for the rainy season as it won't smudge at all even if you are literally drenched in the rains!
You need a good oil based or creamy makeup remover to get rid of the eyeliner. For this reason it stays for a quite long time.
What I like about Rimmel London Scandal Eyes Waterproof Kohl Eyeliner 002 Sparkling Black:
- Rich & creamy texture
- Black shade with sparkles
- Can be used as an eye shadow
- Great color payoff
- Impressive in a single stroke
- Can be sharpened
- Long staying
- Extremely waterproof
What I don't like about Rimmel London Scandal Eyes Waterproof Kohl Eyeliner 002 Sparkling Black:
- Availability in India
- Sparkling eyeliner may not be everyone's ideal choice
Rating– 5/5
Will I recommend?– Well, I would surely recommend this eyeliner as a great staple for the monsoon travels as it serves as an eye shadow as well. Of course, the affordable price tag is yet another major pro for recommending this eyeliner.
Have you tried Rimmel London Scandal Eyes Waterproof Kohl Eyeliner 002 Sparkling Black?
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- 6 Best Instant Detanning Home Remedies
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- Loreal Paris Rouge Caresse Lipstick Dating Coral Review & Swatches
- MAC Lipstick Prepare For Pleasure Review, Swatches & FOTD
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Might and Magic VI: The Mandate of Heaven gameplay video loading, please wait...
Might and Magic VI: The Mandate of Heaven (pc game)
4.68 out of 5 (107 votes)
- Digital Download (1)
- Classic Box (1)
There is 1 shop proposing this game for download at an average price of $ 9.99.
There is 1 classic boxed game available for sale. Check shipping price and condition directly on shop page.
Might and Magic VI: The Mandate of Heaven is included in this package:
I smight you with my spells, you demon!
Mandate of Heaven is the sixth installment of a series of great role playing games from 3DO, the makers of the great fantasy strategy game Heroes of Might and Magic, and it is interesting to know that this is the first game to take place in a world that is related to the former mentioned game, precisely, HOMM II. The game can easily be compared to other finest RPG games of that time by its quality and awesomeness, and has a fantastic, non linear gameplay with a beautiful and highly detailed world setting and friendly interface. Much like in the other Might and Magic games, you control 4 adventurers and guide them in the task of saving the land of Enroth, all the while raising their character stats. The non-linear gameplay allows you to roam freely across the lands, battling enemies in both real time and turn based settings. The game carries on the fantastic fantasy atmosphere from the other games and is, in all ways possible, a fantastic sequel of the series. The graphics are very nice, although a bit lacking in quality compared to other games from that era. But this is one of those cases when that doesn't matter, since the sheer quality of the game itself shines over any disadvantage the game has. If you love great RPG's like Morrowind, this will be a great game for you.
Too many choices to make
I have played this game for hours and still not beat it but there are so many different things you can do and things you can kill. the graphics may not be that great but if you are an rpg lover then that wont really matter. you go through dungeons complete quests and rescue people to gain money and power. plus you can make it turn based or time based depending on how you like it by just hitting enter. there is also a lot of spells and skills and they have so many different weapons from bows to maces. My only problem with the game was it had too many choices to make when your choosing your characters and there ability's. But overall the game is a great game I gave it 5 stars.
Similar games
- Might and Magic 3: Isles of... Rpg, 1991
- Might and Magic: Clouds of ... Rpg, 1992
- Might and Magic: Swords of ... Rpg, 1995
- Might and Magic: World of Xeen Rpg, 1994
- Might and Magic: Darkside o... Rpg, 1993
- Crusaders of Might and Magic Rpg, 1999
- Might and Magic 9 Rpg, 2002
- Might and Magic 7: For Bloo... Rpg, 1999


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I first met Kyle Kelley about 2 years ago when she was on set for a shoot I was doing for the Wedding Dress Ball. Her sweet personality and smile was infectious; she's just one of those women that you instantly want to be friends with. We followed each other on Social Media, and I've since watched her launch and grow her photography business by leaps and bounds.
The girl is seriously talented. I loved her personal style, and when I saw that her and her friend Savannah Cantrell (Cantrell Interiors) were redecorating her home office, I was like waaaait, let me see, let me see, lol. I stopped by one chilly day in December to take pictures (the rest of her home is Pinterest ready too, btw), and was also able to finally meet Savannah in person as well. We chatted about life (she's newly married), photography, and of course, her office.
When you decided to redesign your home office, what was your process? What did you use as inspiration?
Budget! Always balling on a budget. Once I figured out how I was going to pay for a new space I started planning. Basically what I did was sell pretty much everything that was in the guest bedroom, and whatever I made from selling I put toward the new office. Honestly, the inspiration came from things I like – favorite colors, florals and the occasional scroll through Pinterest.
How did Savannah (Cantrell Interiors) get involved?
Savannah and I have been friends for years, but about a year ago we went to grab coffee because she wanted to talk. She had this passion and dream she wanted to discuss about with someone. I'm pretty sure we went through two cups of coffee each in one sitting because there was so much to chat about. We kind of became each other's business confidant. I knew immediately that any house project I had from here on out I'd put her in charge! How could I not, have you seen her work?
Did your aesthetics match up easily?
Like a glove!
Ok, so tell me about the gorgeous blue couch (I'm OBSESSED)!
That was all Savan! She's so good at what she does – very much like an artist. The smallest thing can become an inspiration for someone to create a masterpiece. That's exactly what happened with the couch. Savannah and I were walking through Frugal Home Finds one day and there was this killer forest green couch in there. Just like that Savannah had a vision for what the office would look like. Unfortunately, the green couch was a tad big for the space so it evolved into the blue beauty that sits in my office now.
What's your favorite piece in the room and why?
That's a tough one because there's so many I love, but if I was forced to choose, I'd have to say my coffee table. It was one of those pieces I saw and couldn't stop thinking about. I would go up to Frugal multiple times just to look at it. Finally, it was my husband that kind of just gave me the shove to go for the purchase. I think mainly because he didn't want to hear me talk about it anymore! Haha!
Some people take months to decorate their space while others treat it more as a "one and done" day project. How long did it take you guys to complete everything?
Oh boy. This was a very quick turnaround. I think from the moment I decided to pull the trigger to the last piece being installed, maybe two weeks. I was in a bit of a time crunch. My husband and I were getting married, family was coming in town and I knew I wanted it all done before then. I still can't believe it happened so quickly! I definitely couldn't have done it without Savannah's help.
Being about to work with a friend on a project is always a fun + unique experience. Any plans for future projects in your home?
Absolutely! We have lots of plans on working together in the future.
I've been a fan of your personal style over the years and can definitely see an extension of it into your own photography work and now your office space. Is that on purpose or something you weren't even aware of?
100% on purpose!
As a business, whether big or small, in a home office or multi-million dollar corporation, there is nothing more important than your brand! Consistency is key. What advice would you give other creatives when decorating their working space?
Choose a space and décor that reflects who you are as a creative, a place you're excited to walk into every day. A "happy place" that ignites positive, innovative, productive work.
Favorite place for home goods?
I'm a total Maxxanista, but I'm probably equally obsessed with Home Goods, Target and IKEA!
To learn more about Kyle + her work (she specializes in bumps, babies, births, and now weddings) visit www.kylekelleyphotography.com.
In or near Memphis, TN with a creative space that's a must see? Connect with me here.


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Battlefield 1 Download Now
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Battlefield 1 Overview
Battlefield 1 is a first-person shooter video game developed by EA DICE and published by Electronic Arts. It is the fifteenth installment in the Battlefield series, and the first main entry in the series since Battlefield 4. The game was released worldwide for Microsoft Windows, PlayStation 4, and Xbox One on October 21, 2016. Battlefield 1 received positive reviews by critics and was seen as an improvement over previous installments Battlefield 4 and Battlefield Hardline. Most of the praise was directed towards its World War I theme, multiplayer modes, visuals, sound design, and single-player campaign.
Also Check: Battlefield Hardline
Similar to previous entries in the series, Battlefield 1 is a first-person shooter that emphasizes teamwork. The game is set in the period of World War I, and is inspired by historic events. Players can make use of World War I weapons, including bolt-action rifles, automatic and semi-automatic rifles, artillery, flamethrowers, and mustard gas to combat opponents. Melee combat was reworked, with DICE introducing new melee weapons such as sabres, trench clubs, and shovels into the game. These melee weapons were divided into two groups: heavy and light. Players can also take control of various armored vehicles, including lights and heavy tanks, armored trucks, torpedo boats, biplane aircrafts, an armored train, Reconnaissance vehicles, a Dreadnought and an LZ 30 Airship, as well as ride horses into battle. Destructible environments and weapon customization, features present in the previous games, returned in Battlefield 1 and are more dynamic.
The game's world designer, Daniel Berlin, said the campaign mode has larger and more open environments than those in previous installments in the franchise, with more options and choices in terms of paths to completing levels and how to approach combat. Players can control several characters in the campaign. If the player dies in the prologue, they will then take control of another soldier and role instead of reloading from a checkpoint. These roles can range from tank gunner to flametrooper to rifleman. When the player dies, a name appears on the screen of a real soldier, along with their birth year. Unlike its predecessors, the game features a collection of war stories, similar to an anthology.
Also Check: Call of Duty: Infinite Warfare
The game's multiplayer supports up to 64 players. The new squad system allows a group of players to enter and leave game servers together. According to Berlin, playing without joining a squad would make gameplay significantly more difficult. Multiplayer maps are based on locations around the world, including Arabia, the Western Front, and the Alps. The game launched with nine maps and six modes, which include Conquest, Domination, Operations, Rush, Team Deathmatch, and War Pigeons, a mode in which players must secure war pigeons and use them to call for an artillery strike.
The prologue, set in 1918, sees players take control of different members of the Harlem Hellfighters (George Adams, John Amite, Chris Baker, Walter Lincoln) as they defend their positions against a German offensive in France. The player initially starts out near the frontline and must survive as long as possible against waves of German soldiers. If the player is killed, the game's perspective will shift to another soldier. During the course of the gameplay, an unnamed narrator (one of the Harlem Hellfighters) gives commentary on the nature of the war as the battle continues and player controlled soldiers are killed.
Also Check: Metal Gear Solid V: Ground Zeroes
At the start of the battle, the Harlem Hellfighters initially lose ground to the Germans, but British tanks force the German troops into a retreat until the tanks are stalled by artillery. The Harlem Hellfighters mount a counteroffensive and push forward, sustaining casualties as the Germans hold their ground. When the player switches perspective to the final soldier in the gameplay, a German soldier attempts to kill the player character in melee, but is stopped short by an artillery barrage that wipes out all of the combatants on the battlefield and renders the player unconscious. When the player regains consciousness, he initially appears to be the lone survivor, but quickly encounters a German survivor. Although the two point their weapons at one another, exhaustion and fatigue set in as both realize the futility of their situation, forcing both combatants to lower their weapons. The game then proceeds to an introduction cinematic that opens up to the other War Stories.
Source: Wikipedia
Battlefield 1 Gameplay Screenshots
Battlefield 1 System Requirements
Here are the minimum system requirements for Battlefield 1 game for PC.
- OS: 64-bit Windows 7, Windows 8.1 and Windows 10
- Processor (AMD): AMD FX-6350
- Processor (Intel): Core i5 6600K
- Memory: 8GB RAM
- Graphics card (AMD): AMD Radeon HD 7850 2GB
- Graphics card (Nvidia): Nvidia GeForce GTX 660 2GB
- DirectX: 11.0 Compatible video card or equivalent
- Online Connection Requirements: 512 KBPS or faster Internet connection
- Hard-drive space: 50 GB
|Core i5 6600K / AMD FX-6350
|CPU Speed:
|64-bit Windows 7, Windows 8.1 and Windows 10
|Video Card:
|DirectX 11.0 Compatible video card with 2 GB VRAM (AMD Radeon HD 7850 / nVidia GeForce GTX 660)
|Free Disk Space:
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In most countries it is illegal to poses marijuana; however it is used in the hospital to treat various diseases. When a patient has a medical marijuana card he/she can use the marijuana without being afraid of finding themselves in the wrong side of the law.
In which diseases can medical cannabis be used?
Since cannabis has a broad and diverse therapeutic spectrum, it is generally to be welcomed that medicinal cannabis can be relatively freely prescribed by the formulation, which is kept open in the law. The decision as to whether to use cannabis as medicine is at the discretion of the physician in consultation with the patient. Of course, this will only be the case if the doctor finds evidence of an effect of cannabis on the disease.
So there is no explicit exclusion catalog of diseases for which medical cannabis can be used.
Inflammatory diseases
Effect of medical marijuana in inflammatory diseases such as (poly) arthritis and rheumatism:
Since such disease symptoms are very common in seniors and are also mentally distressing, this was an indication for the administration of carefully selected dose and form of marijuana. A woman reports in the post how the treatment had brought her from her life fatigue.
Another field of application are, for example, post-traumatic stress disorders. Likewise, the positive effect on loss of appetite is reported. Schizophrenia can also be successfully treated with cannabis.
Parkinson's, multiple sclerosis
Conventional medicine often treats chronic, incurable diseases with multiple, side-effect tablets that patients can barely swallow (due to their age and possible dysphagia). Again, side effects can be avoided and symptoms relieved, such as tremor in Parkinson's.
AIDS and cancer
The accompanying and pain symptoms can also be alleviated in these diseases. Medical cannabis is a fast-acting analgesic.
Other popular applications
Multiple sclerosis patients also reported considerable relief.
85 percent of all people with Tourette's syndrome react positively to cannabis, so that many people could be helped here. Instead, they have to endure much more expensive psychotropic drugs with their side effects, because the doctors do not want to go this way and health insurance companies finance the costs at best minimally.
In this video, parents report on the success of the application of epilepsy in their children and the associated reduction of family burdens.
Several people report how they have been cured of cancer by taking marijuana and using it as a very effective cancer preventive.
Cannabis has also been proven in heart disease and can significantly reduce the risk of heart attack. It has also been used to treat insulin-dependent diabetes. If the plant is not heated, it can also be used as an effective antioxidant.
How are the medicines used?
Apart from Sativex, the products can each be inhaled, baked or prepared as tea. In the latter, however, it should be noted that the cannabinoids are not water-soluble, but fat-soluble. With such further processing, however, a standardized intake is difficult. Dronabinol is usually delivered in the form of oily drops and can be taken orally, but also evaporated.
Inhalation is possible by smoking or, using a vaporiser, by evaporation. Doctors advise to vaporize or vaporise, as this way no potentially harmful substances are inhaled. Which type of intake is preferable depends on the patient's indication and possibly any other existing illnesses. However, the patient can express his desire to take.
However: cannabis is not a miracle cure and does not help all patients! Especially patients with a high risk of psychosis or pre-existing conditions in the heart must exercise caution when using cannabis. In general, a medically accompanied, targeted use of cannabis is always preferable to a self-organized application. Due to the decades of blocked research and the lack of public interest in increased use, many patients often find out from their own experiments that cannabis helps them.


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b. 1987 in Long Island, NY
Lives and works in Brooklyn, NY
2012 MFA Fine Arts, School of Visual Arts, New York, NY
2009 BFA Painting and Drawing, Magna Cum Laude; SUNY New Paltz, New Paltz, NY
2018 Hungry Heart, Organized by Sotheby's, Madoo Gardens, Sagaponack, NY
The Armory Show, Andrew Brischler and Dean Sameshima, Gavlak, Pier 92,
New York, NY
UNTITLED San Francisco, The Palace of Fine Arts, San Francisco, CA
2017 Lonely Planet, GAVLAK, Los Angeles, CA
Lonely Planet, GAVLAK, Palm Beach, CA2015 Storms, Gavlak, Los Angeles, CA
2014 Patient Zero, The Arts Club, London, UK
2013 I Made It Through the Wilderness, Gavlak, Palm Beach, FL
NADA New York, Andrew Brischler & David Haxton, Gavlak Booth, New York, NY
2012 Goodbye to All That, Gavlak Palm Beach, FL
39 Great Jones, New York, NY
2018 Tell Him What We Said About Paint it Black, Thorne-Sagendorph Art Gallery, Keene, NH
Tell Him What We Said About Paint it Black, One Mile Gallery, Kingston, NY
Heavenly Bodies, Curated by Heather Moore, Fuigo Studio, New York, NY
Secret Gay Box, Curated by John Wolf, Spring Break Art Show, New York, NY
2017 When We Were Young: Rethinking Abstraction, University Art Museum, SUNY Albany, Albany, NY
Flaming June VII (Flaming Creatures), Gavlak, Los Angeles, CA
Sharper Image, Present Company, New York, NY
Not I, We, Gavlak, Los Angeles, CA
A Pointed Remark, Feuer/Mesler, New York, NY
2016 NADA Miami Beach, Feuer/Mesler, Deauville Beach Resort, Miami Beach, FL
Art Basel Miami Beach, Gavlak, Miami Beach, FL
2015 A Pointed Remark, Feuer/Mesler, New York, NY
NADA Miami Beach, with Feuer/Mesler, Miami, FL
Art Basel Miami Beach, with GAVLAK Los Angeles/Palm Beach, Miami, FL (catalogue)
Ten Year Anniversary Show, Gavlak, Palm Beach, FL and Los Angeles, CA
Re(a)d, curated by Ryan Steadman, Nathalie Karg Gallery, New York, NY
The Valentine's Day Cardiovascular, Geoffrey Young Gallery, Great Barrington, MA
Puente, KINMAN, London, UK
2014 The Go Between: Selections from the Ernesto Esposito Collection, Museo di Capodimonte, Naples, Italy
Art Basel Miami Beach, Gavlak booth, Miami Beach, FL
100 Painters of Tomorrow: New York Exhibition, One Art Space, New York, NY
Inaugural Exhibition, Gavlak, Los Angeles, CA
The Armory Show, Gavlak Booth, Pier 94, New York NY
Painting: A Love Story, Contemporary Arts Museum Houston, Houston, TX (catalogue)
2013 Art Basel Miami Beach, Gavlak Booth, Miami Beach, FL (catalogue)
This is the Story of America, Brand New Gallery, Milan, Italy
Rema Hort Mann Foundation LA Arts Initiative Auction, Hannah Hoffman Gallery, Los Angeles, CA
Acid Summer, Curated by Matthew Craven, DCKT Contemporary, New York, NY
All Fucking Summer, Gavlak, Palm Beach, FL
Whitney Museum Art Party Benefit Auction, Whitney Museum of American Art, New York, NY
MiArt2013, Gavlak Booth, Milan, Italy
The Armory Show, Focus: USA, Gavlak Booth #908, New York, NY (catalogue)
Art Rotterdam, Office Baroque Gallery, Rotterdam, Netherlands
My Echo, My Shadow, Gavlak, Palm Beach, FL
39 Great Jones, Galerie Eva Presenhuber, Zurich (catalogue)
239 Days, School of Visual Arts MFA Alumni Show, Allegra LaViola Gallery, New York, NY
2012 News From Chicago and New York City, Curated by Henning Strassburger, Fiebach Minninger, Cologne,
Time, After Time, Curated by ARTNESIA, Ronchini Gallery, London, UK (catalogue)
SUNY New Paltz Alumni Show, Dosky Projects, Long Island City, NY
What's the Point, Jen Bekman Gallery, New York, NY
It's a Small, Small World, Curated by Marilyn Minter and Organized by Hennessy Youngman,
Family Business, New York, NY
The Virgins Show, Curated by Marilyn Minter, Family Business, New York, NY
Just the Tip, SVA MFA Fine Arts Thesis Exhibition, Organized in Collaboration with Mike Egan,
Visual Arts Gallery, New York, NY (catalogue)
2011 MFA Fine Arts Fall Open Studios, School of Visual Arts, New York, NY
Sentimental Education, Gavlak, Palm Beach, FL
Things Fall Apart, Curated by Asya Geisberg, Visual Arts Gallery, New York, NY
Abstract Means, Curated by Richard Brooks, Visual Arts Gallery, New York, NY
MFA Fine Arts Spring Open Studios, School of Visual Arts, New York, NY
Celebrating 15 Years: Young Artists at Heckscher, Heckscher Museum of Art, Huntington, NY
College Art Association New York MFA Exhibition, Hunter College/Times Square Gallery, New York, NY
Vuu Collective W/S 2011 Show, K&K Gallery, Brooklyn, NY
2010 MFA Fine Arts Winter Open Studios, School of Visual Arts, New York, NY
Emerge to be Seen, Westside Gallery, New York, NY
Marks That Matter, Juried by Gillian Jagger, Muroff Kotler Visual Arts Gallery, SUNY Ulster,
Stone Ridge, NY
The New, Art (That Matters), Oyster Bay, NY
New York Art & Culture Exhibition Series, Albany International Airport, Albany, NY
2009 No Girls Allowed: BFA Thesis Exhibition, Samuel Dorsky Museum of Art, SUNY New Paltz, New Paltz, NY
Best of Show: 2009 Best of SUNY Exhibition, State University Plaza, Albany, NY
2008 Crit 3: Work from Students and Alumni of SUNY New Paltz, Curated by Kathy Goodell,
Spencertown Art Gallery, Spencertown, NY
Somewhere I Have Never Traveled, Smiley Art Gallery, New Paltz, NY
Three, Smiley Art Gallery, New Paltz, NY
2015 Painting Fellowship, New York Foundation for the Arts
2013 Rema Hort Mann Foundation Visual Arts Grant
2012 School of Visual Arts MFA Fine Arts Award
2011 School of Visual Arts MFA Fine Arts Award
2010 5th Annual Artist VIP List, Long Island Pulse Magazine
Student Representative, New York Art & Culture Exhibition Series, Albany, NY
2009 Best in Show, Fall 2008 Best of SUNY Art Exhibition Series, Albany, NY
2008 Alex Minewski Memorial Fine Art Scholarship
2007 Best in Show, Spring 2007 SUNY New Paltz Foundation Department Art Exhibition
2006 Best in Show, Fall 2006 SUNY New Paltz Foundation Art Exhibition
2005 Curran & Connors Art & Design Scholarship
Smithtown High School Art & Literary Magazine Scholarship
Regional Gold Key Winner, Scholastic Art and Writing Awards
Winner, Award of Distinction, "Long Island's Best: Young Artists at Heckscher"
2004 Winner, Award of Excellence, "Long Island's Best: Young Aritsts at Heckscher"
Visual Arts Journal, School of Visual Arts, Spring 2015 (Cover, Feature)
The White Review, Issue #12, December 2014 (Cover)
Elephant Magazine, Issue #20, Autumn 2014
100 Painters of Tomorrow, Thames & Hudson
Luxe Interiors & Design, Fall 2012, Volume 10, Issue 4, pp 108-109.
New American Paintings #98: Northeast Edition, March 2012
VOLUME: A Printed Publication by the VUU Collective, Issue No. 1, Fall/Winter 2011
Long Island Pulse, August 2010, 5th Annual Artist VIP List
2017 Pagel, David. "No wallflowers here: Sparks fly when art mingles on the walls of 'Flaming
June VII'," Los Angeles Times, June 27.
2016 Vicky Lowry, "Visiting Beth Rudin DeWoody and Firooz Zahedi at Home is Better Than a
Trip to a Museum," Architectural Digest, November 4,
2015 Moto Okawa, "Dirty Does It for Andrew Brischler," Art I Like LA, June 26.
Dan Halm, "Portfolio: Andrew Brischler", Visual Arts Journal, Spring 2015, School of Visual Arts
2014 Grace Banks, "Aaron Curry and Andrew Brischler: The Art of Process", Apollo
Magazine Muse Room 29 August
"Andrew Brischler: Cut Hunter Through My Piercing Heart", H A R T Blog: 18 July.
"Studio Visit with Megan Skidmore", Artelier 8 June.
"Studio Visit: Andrew Brischler, Sunset Park, Brooklyn", Paddle8 Blog 10 June.
Indrisek, Scott. "You've Got It All Wrong: Andrew Brischler Humiliates His Imagery," Modern Painters May: 68-70.
Indrisek, Scott. "Throw Your Brushes in the Air," Blackbook Magazine Blog 16 January.
2013 "Where Are We Going, Man?" ATPDiary 22 December.
Zevitas, Steven. "14 to Watch in 2014", New American Paintings Blog 19 December.
Dust Magazine, 27 July. Web.
"Andrew Brischler & David Kramer Studio Visits", Huffington Post 10 May.
"Art.sy Editorial: Five Minutes with Andrew Brischler", ART.SY March 8.
"A/ART: Andrew Brischler", March.
2012 BOOOOOOOM! blog 7 November.
TIME, "After TIME at Ronchini Gallery", The Upcoming UK 7 September.
Watchlist Artist, "Andrew Brischler @ Gavlak Gallery", ArtSlant Miami 24 July.
Sjostrom, Jan. Palm Beach Daily News 19 July.
"AO On Site," Inaugural Opening of Family Business, ArtObserved 20 February.
"Marilyn Minter on Her Show for Maurizio Cattelan's New Gallery", Artinfo 15 February.
2011 "'Sentimental Education' Captures Artists' Torrid Love Affairs With Art History", Huffington
Post 6 December.
"Andrew Brischler in Conversation", Powerslice 24 May
2010 "VUU Collective: A New Generation of Artists", Winter/Spring.
"Emerge to be Seen", School of Visual Arts December.
"5th Annual Artist VIP List", Long Island Pulse Magazine August.
2013 Shinola x Andrew Brischler, Installation & Capsule Collection, Tribeca Flagship Store, New York, NY
Converse Footwear for Publicolor, organized by Grey Area
Norton Museum of Art, West Palm Beach, FL


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Tuesday, July 19, 2016
Road of Life
Life's Road
Life's journey can in many ways be compared to driving down a road. Sometimes the road is pretty smooth and easygoing and one can go fast and enjoy the ride. Then there are parts of the road that are narrow and rough-- maybe steep and slippery. Some may have ice or mud on them making them very difficult to navigate. Some parts of the road have large potholes that maybe camouflaged because they are filled with water, or may have large sharp stones sticking up that can puncture a tire.
Do you find in your journey of life that sometimes you encounter some of these road conditions? We certainly have and when one is on the "front lines" it seems that the road hazards are even more dramatic. Maybe that is because we don't have as many other things or people to fall back on, to help us over the rough areas. It does teach us to rely on the Best Guide and Helper there is-- Jesus Christ! He has traveled the road before us and knows what is up ahead and how to get past the bad areas. It can be a faith-building experience, or a bitter experience when trying to do it on your own.
Reaching people with the gospel in areas where darkness prevails, seems to stir up the enemy and he tries to make the road more hazardous or impassable. So we have to make sure our Road Engineer goes before us. With all the trouble going on in the world now, make sure you have Jesus traveling with you!
We took a man to the hospital last week who got torn up pretty bad by a wild pig and also had elephantiasis, so one leg was very large. Later in the week, we took a lady to the hospital with a retained placenta who was in pretty bad shape due to loss of lots of blood and no way to get to a clinic or the hospital. The village folks just stopped us as we were driving by. God knew the needs of this woman and sent us along to help her.
We went to Kilipau (30 min. drive) almost every day for 2 weeks to treat malaria patients and others (an average of 40-50 pts/day). This region is out of the pills to treat malaria with so we have to give a series of shots for a week. Hence, we had to go everyday. Now they are out of the shots so if you have malaria now in this area…… Sorry, no medicine and malaria is the number one medical problem here. No one seems to know when more medicine might be coming. Many children under the age of five die from malaria.
We hope some of you took time to watch our short video and now have a better idea of what we do here. There is always a lot to do, we just wish an airplane mechanic and maybe another pilot (younger) would decide to join the project here.
Another one of our lay workers has finished building his church way out in the bush, It's a three hour drive, then twelve hours by motorized canoe. It will be dedicated this Sabbath along with a baptism! A couple more churches will be ready within the next couple of months! The work is going forward, in spite of it all! Praise God!
Thank you for your continued prayers and support. They really make a difference!
Gary and Toni Lewis
Donations can be sent to:
Mission Projects Inc.
P.O. Box 504
College Place WA 99324
Please include a note: PNG project
Or go to www.Missionprojectsinc.org for cc or online donations
Posted by Gary and Toni Lewis at 7:30 PM 0 comments
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Your First Visit
At the initial appointment we will have a chance to get acquainted and help you determine if you could benefit from orthodontic treatment. Many of your questions can be answered at this appointment and we encourage you to ask about any of your concerns. Our goal at the first visit is to evaluate and determine the need for orthodontic treatment, answer all of your questions, and help you feel comfortable with our office. We value and treat each patient with kindness and respect and work hard to earn your trust. There is no charge for this examination appointment.
If orthodontic treatment is indicated, diagnostic records will be requested. The diagnostic records include photographs, x-rays and models of your teeth. The diagnostic records are needed to enable Dr. Malan to study the orthodontic problems and develop a customized treatment plan for you. These records are also helpful in tracking the progress of treatment as the teeth move while undergoing orthodontic care.
If orthodontic treatment is recommended, costs for treatment will be discussed with various payment options presented.
Appointments after your initial exam
Your sequence of appointments following the initial consultation with Dr. Malan will be as follows:
1. Diagnostic Records Appointment
In order for the doctor to develop an individualized treatment plan for each patient, diagnostic records must be gathered as the next step to getting braces which include:
- Dental impressions of upper and lower teeth taken at Dr. Malan's Fresno office.
- X-Rays of teeth, jaws, and face. Photographs of the patient's face, teeth, and bite.
2. Consultation Appointment
Your individualized treatment plan will be presented for your approval. General office procedures and financial policies will be discussed. This is the day "separators" will be placed for next week's banding appointment. A separator, which is a small rubber band, will be inserted between the back teeth which will allow for easier placement of the bands. Separators are worn for 1 week.
3. Braces placement Appointment
You are now ready to get your braces! Separators are first removed, then your teeth are polished smooth. Bands are fitted on the back teeth, and braces are "bonded" directly on all the other teeth and a wire is secured into the braces. At this time, we will discuss and demonstrate the proper care of your teeth and braces.
4. Adjustment Appointments
Once the braces are in place, you will visit our office to review your treatment progress at intervals of 5-8 weeks, depending on your specific needs. At these appointments, a number of different procedures might be done in order to assure the continued progress of your treatment. This includes the placement of new wires, the use of rubber bands, and the review of home care instructions.
5. Debanding Appointment – Removal of Braces
Upon completion of treatment, the braces will be removed and post-treatment models, x-rays, and pictures are completed. Retainers are then made to hold the teeth in place.


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Why Gah?
Well, Gah because:
She freaks out!
The more wiggly they get...the more she freaks out.
A few days go by and...
She freaks out some more.
She eats and chews on the side, favoring the wigglies.
She gets me to pre-cut her apples. She will not eat corn on the cob.
And finally when the tooth is barely holding on and we think, "OK it's finally going to fall out!"
She freaks out some more.
And then a few days later...
Out of nowhere...
She says calm as can be: "Daddy, you can pull it out now."
She is a funny one.
After all that freaking out...it ends up being: "Yep, Pull 'Er Out!"
No big deal.
No problem.
This is how she lost the two bottom ones. Two days in a row, one tooth per day. She lost her first two a few months ago, making her total tooth loss 4. And I'm sure in the next few days those top wigglies will be coming right out. Aw...her gappy smile makes me nostalgic for her gummy baby smile days.
Thank You Mermaid Girl for reminding me that sometimes stuff we think is a big deal actually isn't. And most importantly, for teaching me that kiddos are amazingly wise beings who listen to and trust their body. If only us grown-ups could do that more often and more easily. I'm working on it!
{Notice Sharky Boy's PhotoBomb!?!? Hahaha!}
She's hilarious. After asking a million questions about the tooth fairy, her whereabouts, what she looks like and how she knew where to go...she asked if we could please write her a note asking for all her teeth back.
I am assuming though, that she will not want to give back her money. Or knowing Mermaid Girl, she probably won't care if it means having her pearly whites again. Oh how she makes me laugh!}


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Ladies, if a guy tells you that you're just great friends please believe him. This means he does not view you romantically, he's not attracted to you in that way and you are firmly in the "friend zone".
Now, even if he talks to you all the time on the phone and shares his personal stuff; even if he opens up and shares his hopes and dreams for his future; even if he asks for your advice, you're still in the friend zone.
When guys tell you that you're just friends that is what they mean. It's not code for "I secretly find you attractive", it means he doesn't see you as girlfriend material. And even if you're friends with benefits, you're still not the one. So stop with the benefits. You know you can do better than that.
I know this might seem really basic but you would be surprised how many women think that he's just shy, but deep down he really wants a love relationship with her.
Some even think he deep down loves her but just doesn't realize it.
Free your mind. Free your emotions. Let it go. He's really not that into you.
In fact, you're probably great friends but you've caught feelings and you need to back off and give yourself some space.
Don't be so available for the long phone calls. Don't be so ready with the advice and help and understanding. Don't be so available to hear about his dreams for the future. Instead, start working on your own.
With all that being said, there is one thing you can try. Because life is too short to at least not try for something you want.
[Tweet "Free Your Mind. Free Your Emotions. Let It Go #Friendzoned @Ask_Patricia"]
Drop the friend approach. Drop the friendly attitude. Amp up your sex appeal and lightly flirt with him. See if there's chemistry. Don't talk to him the way you've always spoken with him but adopt some mystery and treat him like a person of interest. See if he responds. If not, keep your dignity and call it a day.


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AJ Watson (Tony) has shed over 80kgs in his journey and has won multiple Australian and Pan Pacific championships in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. You can read more on the About AJ page.
Tony has written the book Overweight to Fighting Weight discussing that journey so you can duplicate his results. Tony can incorporate this into his coaching packages so you get a two pronged assault on losing weight. The coaching sessions will unlock your mental and emotional skills, break through limiting behaviours and gain focus so the mentoring sessions can delve into the mechanics of weight loss.
This gives clients a stepped through system to tackle weight issues, along with clearing mental barriers and habits that no longer serve you to achieve the goal of a healthier and fitter life.
Clients hiring AJ Coaching for the Weight Loss Package receive a copy of Overweight to Fighting Weight. You can view our service options and methodologies by clicking here.
If you are looking to lose weight and are tired of all the mixed information and nonsesical advice you get from other weight-loss programs and guru's then Overweight to Fighting Weight is the book and plan for you! This is a solid plan, not a diet, but a true plan that gets you on the path to a healthier you! It's not about counting calories, carbs, fat, etc., etc., but instead a plan that helps you truly change your ways and turn your health and body around. You will truly be transformed by this plan, I highly recommend this book to anyone struggling to lose weight. Take it from one who knows the struggles of diet after diet and plan after plan and hundreds if not thousands of dollars down the toilet on the quest to lose weight, believe me, this plan works! Truly a remarkable book, chock full of amazing life-changing advice!
I love the authenticity AJ Watson brought to the table. It takes a lot to just put it all out there and let everyone in on your hardest times.
I found this novel really thought-provoking and enlightening.
Superb writing from Watson and a compelling story while also being informative and helpful to others.
This was an inspirational and fascinating read to me. I loved the authenticity that shined through with the writing. AJ Watson did a great job of sharing his experiences and advice without sounding preachy. It's an easy format to follow. I liked the way it was laid out overall. Wonderful piece of self-help writing!
I loved how this novel was full of great advice and solid examples. I didn't feel like I was being told how to do something by someone who didn't have legitimate facts backing them up, real world experience.
I think you need to go into reading this with somewhat of a clear head. It's a nice novel to step away with and clear your mind to new ideas and thinking.
This is one of those self help novels that I feel really did what the blurb tells you it will do. It gives you real life examples and experiences. Not everything works the same for everyone else, but I think reading about someone else's struggles helps you not feel alone in the battle. Seeing that it has been done, it can be done, really gives you extra hope and motivation. A solid non-fiction piece of writing.
Looking to lose weight but everything has failed? Discover the physical and mental aspects of becoming a much healthier you, written by someone that dropped 80kg!
Get the weight loss system written by someone that went from zero exercise and over 175kg, to a multiple time Australian and Pan Pacific martial arts Champion. AJ Watson has shed 80kg in his journey and for the first time shares how he did it, and what needed to change mentally and physically to achieve his goals.
This book will teach you how to:
•understand weight loss issues
•figure out nutrition labels
•learn how to set goals
•improve your motivation
•boost your willpower
•structure your exercise
•become a better version of you.
AJ Watson's approach tackles the issues from multiple angles giving a much greater level of success than diet alone. Treat yourself to a wealth of knowledge and kick those extra kilos goodbye.
AJ discusses his physical and mental states throughout his journey, and how he combated multiple challenges to attain results. Because he has been there, AJ understands the thought process of overeating, obesity, a sedentary lifestyle and low self-esteem. His success as a martial artist, coach and author is traced back to the struggle out of his lowest point.
Now you can benefit from that struggle as well.
Click here to grab your copy today.


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We are an independent assembly of believers united in spirit and intent on one purpose: Knowing our Lord Jesus Christ and Making Him known (Philippians 2:2; 3:7-11; 1 John 2:12-14; Matthew 28:19-20; 2 Peter 3:18). We assemble to worship in Spirit and in truth (John 4:24), devoting ourselves to the Apostle's teaching, to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread, and to prayer (Acts 2:42), watching out for one another to provoke love and good works and encourage one another in the faith (Hebrews 10:24-25).
Our Pastor
Pastor Dan received his training at Austin Bible Church under the supervision of Pastor Bob Bolender. His training from 2008-2015 included studies in Biblical hermeneutics, the original Biblical languages of Greek and Hebrew, systematic theology, and church history. Pastor Dan was ordained by Austin Bible Church after written and oral examinations by a council of pastors on November 20, 2015. He became the pastor of Corpus Christi Bible Church on March 1, 2017.


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Scrambled eggs are a very easy dish that can be taken to the next level with spices and herbs. This dish great for a weekend brunch or even quick weekday breakfast. This recipe is extremely forgiving so feel free to change up which vegetables you use or to turn it into a frittata.
Crack the eggs into a bowl. Add salt to taste, a teaspoon of water or milk and cilantro (if using) and beat with a fork or whisk.
Heat a frying pan on medium high heat for 1-2 minutes. Add ghee or oil then add tomatoes, ginger and minced chili if using. Cook for approximately two minutes or until tomatoes soften. Add Tadka Masala and stir until spice blend is evenly distributed. Now pour the beaten eggs into the frying pan and keep stirring gently. When the eggs start to coagulate lower heat to med low. Keep folding the eggs gently with a spatula until cooked completely but not dry.
Serve with toast or make a burrito with any flatbread.
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 5 min
|Aloo Baingan is a delicious dish made from Indian eggplants and potatoes. Indian eggplants are the small round variety as shown in the picture. This recipe is one of our favourites because it is so easy to make and presents beautifully.
Preheat oven to 350°F on bake setting.
Wash potatoes and eggplant thoroughly and wipe dry with paper towel. Cut the potatoes in half lengthwise and then slice into thin wedges that are about ½ inch wide. Set aside.
Cut eggplants by making a cross at the bottom of them that goes about ¾ of the way, making sure not to cut the stems. Sprinkle salt into the cuts of the eggplant. Then sprinkle 1/2 of the Jaswant's Kitchen Tadka Masala into the cuts of eggplant.
Heat a skillet or pot on medium high heat. Add oil and cook the potatoes until lightly browned on all sides (about 15 minutes). Add the eggplants and banana peppers (if using) and the rest of Jaswant's Kitchen Tadka Masala. Stir until masala coats all the potatoes. Add water. Cover with a tight fitting lid and place in oven. Set timer for 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, check for doneness and sprinkle with mango powder (if using). Serve with naan or chapatti.
Makes 4 servings
Aloo Gobi is a popular dish made from cauliflower and potatoes. This recipe is another one of our favourites because it is so easy to make and so delicious.
Makes 7-8 servings | Prep Time: 10 min | Cook Time: 20 min
Wash potatoes thoroughly. If using new potatoes, leave the skin on (otherwise remove the skin) and cut in half lengthwise and then make half inch thick slices. Cut the cauliflower into small florets cutting through the stem to ensure they don't fall apart when cooking. Wash cauliflower thoroughly and drain.
Heat the pan on medium high heat, add oil and fry the potatoes with salt for 4-5 minutes or until slightly golden. Add the Jaswant's Kitchen Tadka Masala and 1 cup of water. Cover and cook for another 2-3 minutes or until potatoes are partially cooked.
Add 1⁄2 cup of water, ginger and cauliflower and stir to coat all pieces with the masala mixture. Cover and cook for about 6-8 minutes (check halfway through to make sure there is still water in the pan - if not add 1⁄4 cup of water) and keep cooking until the cauliflower is just cooked through (breaks easily with a spoon). Then uncover, reduce heat and simmer until all the water evaporates (if needed).
Finish with chopped cilantro, mixing well. Serve with chapatti or naan
Watch our recipe video to learn how to make Bhindi!
Bhindi (okra or lady's finger) is a summer vegetable that is quite popular in Indian cuisine. I've simplified this recipe by cooking it in the oven. It turns out great this way and requires less attention.
It is important to cook okra without water. Cooking it with moisture causes the okra to release a sticky substance that can make your dish unappetizing. Varieties of okra from India tend to be less sticky and taste better but any variety will do. Choose thin long green okra pods that are not bruised and do not show signs of maturity. Young tender pods cook easily and taste better. Mature pods can be tough and woody.
Wash, drain and dry the okra completely by immediately drying each piece with a kitchen towel or paper towel.
Remove the stem end and cut into 1/2 inch rounds.
Chop onions to be about the same size as the okra rounds.
Preheat oven to 350°F degrees (convection if possible).
In a bowl, toss together all ingredients and mix well.
Add mixed ingredients in a single layer to a shallow baking dish or baking pan.
Bake in the oven and stir occasionally. Depending on whether you are using the convection setting or not and the strength of your oven, cooking times will vary.
Okra is cooked when it is soft but not mushy. This makes a great side and tastes delicious with chapatti or naan.
This delicious yet easy recipe was sent to us by one of our customers and we are so glad she did (thanks Allison)! It's a great way to spice up the usual butternut squash soup recipe especially when the temperature drops.


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All listing information is deemed reliable but not guaranteed and should be independently verified through personal inspection by appropriate professionals. Listings displayed on this website may be subject to prior sale or removal from sale; availability of any listing should always be independently verified.
Listing information is provided for consumer personal, non-commercial use, solely to identify potential properties for potential purchase; all other use is strictly prohibited and may violate relevant federal and state law.
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Sotheby's International Realty® is a registered trademark licensed to Sotheby's International Realty® Affiliates LLC. Each office is independently owned and operated. Equal Housing Opportunity.
Listing information last updated on March 31st, 2020 at 5:45am EDT.


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Much of our math homework this week is found online. Here are the links. There are additional games and interesting websites posted on the Math and Student Pages as well.
Monday - Complete Math Focus activity either online at http://goo.gl/7hYhJ or complete first 3 pages (in log).
Tuesday - Complete Chapter 1 Lesson 1 Worksheet (in log)
Wednesday - Complete Math Focus activity either online at http://goo.gl/KiUYe or complete next 3 pages (in log)
Thursday - Play Pattern Quest at PBS Kids http://goo.gl/HqHQy


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I have been bringing my watches to Manhattan Time for many years. I have recommended them to both family and friends because they do an outstanding job. The quality of their work is simply the best regardless of what you need, from complex restoration work to simple thing like a watch band replacement.
- Best Regards, Gary


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Street Performers: The Puppet Masters
Author's note: This article appeared in the Penang Club magazine on November 2004. An earlier version was published by the Weekend magazine in 1986.
As I was contemplating rehashing a story I wrote about some local performing artists many years ago, I read the Penang Heritage Trust is conferring the 'Living Heritage Treasures of Penang' award to people who have contributed significantly to the cultural heritage of Penang. Serendipity could not have been timelier. The panel of judges is headed by Penang Club member and former Federal Court Judge Tan Sri Datuk Chang Min Tat.
I came across and got to know the Beng Geok Hong – Call of the Jade Phoenix – "poh theh hee' (puppet theatre) 17 years ago. Back in the eighties George Town was still a delightful city, vibrant and teaming with street life. As I was walking down the street, with nothing much to do, I was captivated by some live music coming from the puppet theatre performing from a roadside stage – it was some temple festivities. The sound of erhu, bamboo flute, langtingtang (Chinese lute), lapah (trumpet), percussion of bamboo clappers, gongs and drums and singing came alive, powerful, melodious and unrestrained.
It was not often that one hears these ancient instruments played so wonderfully. Curious, I went backstage to look at the musicians and to find out more about them. I was greeted by a smiling face and invited up backstage and even offered a 'kopi or' (black coffee) by the musicians.
The happy encounter resulted in a little story in the now defunct Weekend magazine published by the late K S Choong, founder of the Star newspaper. Last week (Nov 4, 2004), I went back to see them at their home base at 4 Toh Aka Lane and am happy to report that half of them are still alive and the troupe is still performing, albeit at a much reduced scale.
In my mind they are truly "Living Heritage Treasures" of Penang and I will not hesitate to nominate them for the award. But first the story – seventeen years ago – in the Weekend magazine:
One of the most fascinating performing arts that is still surviving in Penang is the 'poh tay hee' or glove puppet theatre. It is usually performed during temple festivals. You can also see them during the 7th month 'Hungry Ghost' festival though, of late, its popularity has been eclipsed by the 'kotai' (Chinese pop music concert).
"In its heyday during the fifties and sixties there were more than 10 puppet theatres in Penang but today (1987) there are only three or four groups left," said Khoo Kah Kim, 66, a member of the Beng Geok Hong puppet theatre which is the best and most well known through out Malaysia.
"We travel all over the country to perform," he added. "In fact we've just got back from Kota Baru after performing for the 'Nine Emperor God' festival."
"After this show in Penang for the 'Loh Chia Kong' birthday, we will go to Anson (Telok Intan) for five days and then off to perform in another town."
"People like our shows because all of us have lived with the theatre most of our lives," said Khoo with pride. "Our music is especially superb. No other troupe can match our music and singing. The great singer and langtingtang (lute) maestro, Tan Tong Tong of Redifussion-fame, often performed with us," he said.
[Tan Tong Tong's fame went as far as Singapore where he had a great following. Unique and talented as composer and arranger, he looks like Chuck Berry, even as dark in skin-tone and wavy hair. He is from Carnarvon Street where I grew up; my only regret I wasn't in time to get his photo and story before his passing. He would strolled the streets and back alleys when night falls, literally singing for his super with an oil lamp and oracle sticks hung on his two-string lute . He would spontaneously compose and sing the oracles of clients. People would gather not only to hear their fortune told but entranced by his music and voice. His regular redifussion programme is keenly followed especially by Hokkien-speaking fans.]
"We have been around for a long time. We grew up with the music and the art is in our blood," Khoo explained.
The puppet theatre comprises nine members. The oldest is 70-year-old Goh Ah Boon who specialises in the bamboo flute and also blows an assortment of other wind instruments.
Grandpa Goh heads the orchestra which consists of Khoo Kah Kim on lute, percussion, narration and vocals; Teoh Ah Hwa, 49, lute, urhu and lapah (trumpet); Tan Pek Leng, 60, also on lute, urhu and lapah; and the youngest
Ooi Ah Cheng, 30, who is the percussion specialist.
The other members are Madame Ooi Ah Kan, 45, narrator and singer and owner or towkay of the troupe;
Miss Chua Saw Tin, 32, (right): puppeteer, narrator and singer; Madam Ooi Ah Pee, 48, also puppeteer, narrator and singer; lastly grandma Ch'ng Beng Choo, 63, narrator.
All the members are great artists in their own rights. They are somehow related to one another and the theater has been a part of the family inheritance and culture for many generations.
"I don't know how many years it takes to be a puppeteer but I have been following my mother, since I was very small, all over the country during the performances and I just pick it up, " said Saw Tin. "It's natural and runs in the
family. Now I'm considered old already," she added laughingly, her modesty belies her powerful voice and soulful vocal, one of the finest around.
For septuagenarian Goh Ah Boon it has been half a century with the troupe. He is master of the bamboo flute par excellence. Listening to the musical ensemble led by him is indeed a surprise and joy. It is 'Chinese jazz' played with refinement and spontaneity.
"We have been playing music together for a long time and we know each others temperament and style. Whenever one strikes or sings a note, we know intuitively how to adapt with the musical backing and accompaniment," explained Teoh Ah Hwa. "We play by feelings and there is a lot of improvisation. [like something you hear from Miles Davies, the great musician, explaining the spontaneity of jazz]
"In the puppet theatre the story and musical forms are there for us to execute but during the performance a lot of ad libbing is done," he said. "This makes the theatre come alive. The emphasis is getting into the spirit of the story. This makes the difference between a good performance and an amateurish one.
Talking with members of the puppet troupe is an enlightening experience. I am immediately struck by their warmth and friendliness. They are not above inviting photographers up backstage, cluttered with boxes of puppets and musical instruments, for a cup of coffee. In between performance, when the musicians take their breaks, we chatter away for a good many hours.
The skill and expertise of these artists are staggering. There are over 200 puppet characters and more than 150 stories (of Chinese folklore and legends) in their repertoire and they know them all by heart. This is only possible after
many years of living and performing with the puppets
Last month on Nov 4, 2004 I went a calling to look for the remnants of the puppeteers in the heart of Old George Town. Toh Aka Lane must be the narrowest and most picturesque in Penang. It borders on the Malay settlement of Acheen Street mosque, winds and curves for about 200 meters and joins Beach Street which is the seafront in the old days. There is a clan temple in mid lane among the old 'heritage' houses.
At house number four, I met Ooi Ah Goh, 88, the father of theatre owner Madam Ooi Ah Kan. Still healthy and sharp-eyed, he remembers all the faces when I showed him the photographs I took 17 years ago.
He said of the original nine members I met in 1987, three has passed away, one in old-folks home, one terminally sick, one quit and found a job. Only three are left – puppeteers, singers Ooi Ah Kan and Chua Saw Tin; and Teoh Ah Hwa
who now plays the electric organ. The traditional orchestra is now reduced to three instruments – electric guitar, electric organ and percussion. Only the percussion has not been replaced by modern instruments.
I lamented on the disappearance of the traditional and the full orchestra. "Yes it is sad, next generation there will be no more, the whole puppet theatre will in all likelihood disappear," said Ooi. "No one wants to be in the puppet show anymore. You can't make enough money to survive nowadays."
"In the old days we can get seven months of work in a year. Now we are lucky if we can get four months work," he added
I commented that it is sad the local people are not interested in cultural arts like this anymore. "But many White Man (Westerners) have come to take pictures, films, recordings and in-dept interviews of us," said Ooi enthusiastically.
I am quite sure these foreigners are from the musicology departments of Berkeley University and other American and European universities who
value this performing art and music. They know the importance of recording and documenting them before it disappears.
Let us hope the end of the 'poh tay hee' will not come to pass if enough awareness and support are forth coming. It is oversea Chinese cultural heritage and uniquely Penang. The Penang Heritage Trust's initiative is a good start though I feel the RM 1,000 annual award is real cheapskate. They should go and see how Japan or even Thailand honor their living artists. Nevertheless, I shall nominate Madam Ooi Ah Kan – puppeteer / story narrator / singer and owner of the puppet theatre.
Failing this, I hope the state government, clan associations, Chinese cultural and education groups, Chinese guilds and business associations would come forth and give their support.


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"The key?" Christina said, holding a comb in the air. A group of Arizona State sorority sisters huddled around our pretty blonde Social Chair while preparing for a party. I anxiously anticipated Christina's next words as if they were the formula to a 1.5" thigh gap.
"The lift." With wide eyes we watched as she aptly teased our friend's hair, pulled a straight section over it and then lifted the hair below with the end of the comb as if fluffing a couch pillow.
The final result was gravity-defying volume with a smooth finish, matching her own signature tease.
Finally I knew her secret.
8 Years Later
Hail fell outside Christina's Dallas office, i.e. the perfect new home for her pouf. Three college jobs, leadership roles and working her ass off since age 15 had landed her the position of Assistant Vice President of a Mortgage Underwriting Department by the age of 25, and she quickly climbed the corporate ladder from there.
The only problem was that she didn't know it was hailing.
In fact, a nuclear apocalypse could be occurring, but all she saw were the same four office walls from sunrise to nightfall.
How Is She Doing This?
Admiration, curiosity and mild jealousy led to stalking Christina's travel photos over the past 4 months. Photos of Dallas bars and restaurants had been replaced with exotic locations from rice fields to waterfalls.
"How is this girl traveling the world?!" I couldn't help but wonder as I scrolled through Facebook and Instagram.
So on Saturday morning I asked her this very question over Facetime. She was curled up in her Dallas apartment which she has recently reclaimed after renting it out on Airbnb. Neither of us wore makeup. My hair was braided and hers was pulled back with a maroon knit beanie.
Christina's smile was the same one I had last seen 7 years ago but something was different. In an effort to discover just what made her even more Girl Crush-worthy since graduation, an interview began that uncovered 7 lessons learned from quitting her job and traveling the world.
7 Things She Learned from Quitting Her Job and Traveling the World
1. Work to feel fulfilled
"I came to a point where I realized I was 29 years old and didn't find a purpose anymore. It was becoming extremely draining to go to work with people who accepted misery as part of their daily job," Christina explained.
We can all relate to the defeated feeling of asking co-workers how their day is only to hear back sarcasm-laced responses like "living the dream!" She figured it was simply the price you pay for a sizable salary.
Until one day she realized no number was worth the negativity.
"I thought, 'I don't want to work for a seat to fill. I want to work to feel fulfilled,'" Christina said. "And I realized nothing is going to change unless I make the change."
July 1, 2015 marked the last day of corporate work for Christina. "The moment I realized I was ready to quit my job, the biggest weight was lifted off my shoulders. I didn't know what I would do exactly, but I would rather figure it out than live with gold shackles."
2. It's okay to have no plan
Does she regret her prior plan of climbing the corporate ladder? No, she views it as a necessary evil that allowed her to save for what came next: "The No Plan Plan."
Starting with a one-way ticket.
"When you left Dallas, where did you think you were going?" I asked Christina.
"I just thought, 'I'm going to go to Bali with my friend Catherine and see where it takes me.'"
Bali led to Thailand which led to a trip to visit her dad in Japan and then…
- Vietnam
- Ireland
- Amsterdam
- Germany
- South Africa
- Namibia
- Botswana
- Zambia
By luck, fate and the power of Facebook, she always had someone to travel with along the way – or at least a destination.
"I didn't have a timeframe or a deadline. If I had everything booked I wouldn't have been able to go to Vietnam," Christina said. She was invited on a Thursday and booked her ticket the next morning. "It was nice to go destination by destination because you never know who you'll meet along the way."
3. The grass always looks greener
"I felt like I was in a dream," Christina recalled when I asked her which travel memory stood out to her the most over the past 143 days. She and her friend Drew were in Vietnam where a Hmong woman invited them to lunch.
The woman's home sat on a beautiful rice field surrounded by majestic scenery. Though she spoke very little English, Christina immediately felt a deep connection.
"It was kind of a mind fuck," Christina admitted. "I was looking at this woman's life and thought it was so free and beautiful. And she looked at my life and wanted the job I had quit. You'll always want what you can't have."
Language wasn't needed for Christina to realize something life-changing. "Part of understanding yourself is seeing yourself through someone else's eyes," she said with misty eyes.
4. Awkward is awesome
"Bathroom experiences," Christina admitted when I asked about her most awkward travel moments. "I can't squat for the life of me; I peed on my foot every time."
From camping in Africa where the bathroom consisted of a shovel and roll of toilet paper to plenty of holes in the ground, it was clear she was no longer in a high-rise Texas condo.
"In Vietnam I was walking 10.5 miles with no bathroom so I had go down a hill to pee. Of course I peed on my foot, and it had rained the day before so when I stepped back, I slipped and fell on my ass down the hill."
The bright side? "Awkward moments are the best because they take you out of your comfort zone."
5. We're all the same
"It's really beautiful to see how heavily other cultures rely on tourism – not just because they need it to help their economy, but also because they really want to open people's eyes to their culture," Christina told me. "And to show that they're not a second or third rate culture."
Along her travels she's met many strangers. At first it might seem safe to assume that there would be no common ground, but Christina quickly learned otherwise while witnessing "humanity in its purest form."
"We are all the same but different. Despite your culture, religion, political views, we're all people. We all love and hurt and cry and have fun. And everyone just wants to be accepted somewhere." Christina added, "By me understanding them, I learned more about myself also."
6. You are capable of more
"Bottom line: I learned that I am capable of much more than I ever thought," Christina said in response to what she learned about herself.
"Towards the end of everything I had an intense moment," she said. "I realized I was never comfortable with my body. I wore all that makeup. I think I had an eating or drinking problem. I was in relationships that weren't healthy. I really struggled to figure out who I was and how to be happy."
My mind flashed back to our Pi Phi Social Chair with the perfect cat-winged eyeliner and curled hair. I began to see what had changed.
"At the end of all of this I feel the most beautiful I've felt in my entire life because I'm happy and now all those things are secondary to me."
There was an authenticity so great I couldn't help but smile as I recorded the answer.
"Never in my wildest dreams did I think I would be eating caterpillars or going swimming in an African river or skydiving or sand boarding. That girl was never me."
"I'm a rain dancer now!" Christina exclaimed. "I love dancing in the rain and being gross for days. I've traveled in the most unfitting accommodations – hot buses and canoes. I had never camped before. Really camped. I realized I am capable of much more."
7. How to find yourself
Now as I looked at Christina across Facetime, I watched her adjusting a cotton beanie instead of lifting teased hair. With great admiration and anticipation I awaited her answer to what quitting her job and traveling the world ultimately taught her.
"Putting myself out of my comfort zone is where I have found myself truly being the most comfortable," Christina concluded.
Finally I knew her secret.
For more Christina:
- Instagram: fliburd365
- Email: flyburd365 @ gmail.com
- Blog: http://cfabritz.wix.com/livingforaliving
- Soon to come: Christina found a purpose and a passion with traveling and connecting with other cultures. She is going to continue traveling while creating a community for female travelers.