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Are You a Yoga Teacher or a Yoga Technician? ~ Vyda Bielkus
A true teacher must step beyond the boundary of being simply a technician.
Whether on a train, at a dinner party or in the line at the post office, people always ask, "What do you do?"
Most of us reading this website will answer proudly, waiting for the usual look of envy, "I am a yoga teacher."
But as we know, this answer hardly reflects the depths of our role in the community. For many students, their teachers are confidants, sounding boards about nutrition, someone they can moan to about colleagues, friends or even lovers. The sanctity of the modern yoga study is generated by the coalescing of serene space and trusting people. More than ever the ethics applied in other industries where student/teacher relationships exist must be applied to the yoga industry. Meeting these, and other parameters (like starting and finishing a class on time) is the makings of a—well, a good technician.
You can say the asanas (yoga posture) in Sanskrit, you keep good momentum and help others leave limber, but what about making your students leave awakened and inspired?
This only starts to happen when you are a true teacher, achieved through a deep self-study and knowledge base that extends beyond what you learned at your first 200-hour teacher training. With many people joining the occupation, distinguishing yourself as a teacher may seem increasingly challenging.
To meet the demand from the increase of devout warriors, a yoga teacher must step beyond the boundary of being simply "a technician." Training someone how to do yoga asana is vastly different than educating someone about what it means to embark on the path of yoga—of total self-realization. Committing to learning about yourself is one of the ways to get beyond this boundary.
Adding things to your teaching toolbox is a critical way of developing your ability to inspire and lead. Conferences and workshops are great places to pick up tips, but those tips are externally driven and other technicians will also walk away with the very same ones. Driving inner awareness and opening yourself to self-exploration is what will set you apart, and enable you to create your own message.
This is the yogic journey: to surpass the teacher that once taught you, so the growth of our collective consciousness grows. Your time has come—keep going.
James Howell rightly observed that, "We learn by teaching." Critically, the thing to remember is we, as teachers, need to continue learning about ourselves. Getting coached is a great way to delve deeper into our own hearts and minds so that we are a clear, neutral sounding board for our students. So, we're not just giving advice, but teaching others how to find the answers within themselves.
Becoming a certified Health Yoga Life Coach is a great way to learn methods that can be used both in and out of the teaching environment. Teachers and studio owners find themselves fielding students' questions after class. Sometimes the questions warrant more than a demonstration of an asana or a suggestion for a meditative CD. Sometimes students want an energetic relationship that needs clearer boundaries in order for their needs to be met. By engaging with students in a coaching relationship, professional and healthy boundaries are established; this also enables teachers to be valued for the work they are truly doing.
Owning a yoga studio has illustrated the vibrant differences between teachers. The biggest consistency is the classes attracting the most students are the ones where the teacher is truly committed to their path of self-discovery. The teachers who work on their own "stuff" are the ones who are engaged in yoga as a journey as opposed to being a specialized fitness instructor.
A true teacher understands life is the biggest opportunity for self-growth.
When a plant outgrows its pot, you replant it to a larger one. Try as you might to shake off the soil from the old pot, much of it clings to the roots. This former soil is then integrated with the new soil in the larger pot, and the plant grows even bigger. Experiences in life do this to each one of us. We either use the old manure for future growth, or the whole thing gets thrown out into the compost heap. The only way the tradition of yoga has continued for centuries is because students learn, develop, mature and become true teachers. It's time to outgrow your pot.
Vyda Bielkus and her sisters Aida, Zara, and Siga are committed to transforming their own lives and the lives of others through yoga and Health Yoga Life Coaching every day. The sisters own and operate the Health Yoga Life studio in Boston. However they work with clients from all over the world who they coach, and train to become coaches, in their coaching methodology. Together they created the Emotional Responsibility MethodTM to help people shift from reactivity to action. They believe that empowerment and happiness are an achievable aim for everyone they meet. Their offerings include Yoga Teacher Trainings (200 hour and 500 hour), Health Yoga Life Coach Trainings and Workshops/Retreats and Consulting. Learn more at www.healthyogalife.com and www.independentyogi.com
Editor: Sara McKeown
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4 Responses to "Are You a Yoga Teacher or a Yoga Technician? ~ Vyda Bielkus"
I read this the other day and deigned to comment. I do not believe that all yoga teachers need to teach everyone what it means to embark upon the path of self-realization. I do not think all students want this. I do speak from my own experience and needs. I am older than most students. A few years ago I began going VERY regularly to yoga after a gym injury. I went for physical strength, flexibility and normal ( tho rehabilitative) activity. I still do.
As an older person I have cycled through trends and waves of self-realization.. I played 'hippie' with peace and flowers. watched friends do EST. I entered yoga then. I went meatless in the 1970s, tried bioenergetics, Sufi dance, got the magic 10 deep tissue work, chanted and chanted, did deep breathing, read and responded to so many lovely texts, scriptures, went to many" what color is your parachute?' workshops as time and economy shaped my professional future and because they were the 'cool't hing to do, waded my way through the self-help explosion, saw or listened to the myriad of healers and helpers whom I had opportunities to meet. I am not the only one.
PT 2 I go to yoga for physical change and development first. I appreciate that my teachers know and practice ethics, good alignment and anatomy and are positive people who are learning and discovering about yoga, anatomy and care in teaching. To me, a great part of that care in teaching is NOT pretending to have a MS in counseling, therapy or Nutrition. To me being a good yoga teacher means using care and thought .. not ever proseletyzing.
In my city we have many studios: ones with hard body fitness yoga teachers whose classes are full every day , studios whose owners have taught yoga/spirituality for decades with full classes, schedules and studios with teachers who mix in "how to live" with physical.. their classes are full depending on the mystery of personal likes and the well-known issue of major city car traffic..
This piece is an advertisement for your services. Please don't try to deny or conceal that. I believe the role of a good teacher is to wean the student from the need for a teacher. That's it. A good teacher puts themselves out of a job as quickly as possible with each and every student. That is the sign of an effective yoga teacher.
There are some real gems mentioned in here, I.e learn by teaching, and teach by studying. Self promotion is okay, they don't hide it!


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Daybreak Doppler: Playing Nice
Ed. Note: I guess there's not enough room in the Wisconsin sports blog milieu for two 'mugs' so rather than making an issue out of it, it's easier to just concede here and switch our name up. I actually like this name better now that I've had time to think about it…that is until some weather department from a Fox affiliate in southern Illinois emails me and tells me they somehow loosely have license to it.
An Elizabeth Banks sort of morning (who's Twitter feed is actually pretty amusing).
Going to sort of date myself here, but these candid shots from the original Star Wars felt like looking through an old scrapbook of my youth.
There was a ton, well…maybe not a ton but at least several pounds, of Tebow/Packers related talk on Twitter yesterday, most likely started by this .
CHTV has a follow up on Tebow to the Pack as well.
More Star Wars nerd fun, but with Legos !
Sigh…. , at least they sort of rip the guy who placed the ad.
At least she's not suing for the same reason past Price is Right model's filed suit for. (Right link now)
Errr….a Weird Al Sex Tape
A somewhat exhausting, but very complete, piece on the possiblity on an expanded, 96 team NCAA Basketball Tournament
New Packers Therapy podcast available, with special guest NFL Draft Avatar(there words, not mine) Chad Reuter. Listen here or subscribe via iTunes here .
Handicapping this round of Dancing With the Stars . Looks like my picks from yesterday were spot on.
Very nice piece on Badgers Trevon Hughes & Jason Bohannon
Marquette notched a win last night against Louisville and pretty much secured a spot in the Big Dance. Here's your recap and insight .
Swingtown has your preview of the Badgers vs Iowa game tonight, final one at the Kohl Center for the season.
The UW-GB MBB move into the second round of the Horizon League Tournament with a win over Youngstown State .
Brew Crew Ball have the results of their tracking poll up that we mentioned yesterday.
We're gonna need a bigger boat – I live in Green Bay, more specifically Howard on the north side of Green Bay. On my way into the office I pass a wholesale/retail fish place which advertises their special on an elevated marquee. Today's special was Fresh Shark. OK, maybe there's some different definition of 'fresh' I don't know about…but where is this fresh shark coming from? Are there Makos and Hammerheads now swimming in Lake Michigan or Lake Winnebago? You would have thought someone would have mentioned that. Maybe there's some hidden shark farm in Northeastern Wisconsin, if so I want to go check it out. I don't see a helipad by the store so it must be coming from some place local.
Have a link, tip or something else that should be included in this space? Email us and give us the scoop.

subset: commoncrawl


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New Releases
The Kooks Go In A New Direction For Their Fourth Studio Album
Wednesday, September 17th, 2014 by Lauren Puleo
Release Date: 9/8/14
Rating: 8/10
Well, well, well, it looks like the Kooks are gettin' kind of funky here. Listen has been described as having some ska and even hip-hop influences from this traditionally indie rock band from Britain. This is such a deviation from their norm that if Luke Prichard didn't have such a unique voice, this album wouldn't even be recognizable as the Kooks. Because of that, this newest release rubs some people the wrong way, but personally I can dig it. (more…)
Tags: Kooks, Listen
Posted in Featured, Music, New Releases, News, Reviews | 1 Comment »
What Is The WLOY Staff Listening To?
Thursday, April 24th, 2014 by Billy Dries
Rachel Stoczko – Hozier – From Eden EP –
This newly released EP from Irish artist, Hozier, has been on repeat since I discovered it last week. I first heard Hozier on Teen Wolf, judge me, with his work from his first EP, and his second certainly does not disappoint. I cannot stop listening to the hauntingly beautiful tones and intricate lyrics of all four songs off the new EP. Give it a listen and melo out.
Posted in Music, New Releases, Reviews | No Comments »
Top 20 Tracks 4.20.14
Thursday, April 24th, 2014 by Billy Dries
This week we have the highly anticipated "Girl" topping our chart. The xx producer/percussionist released his fourth solo single earlier this week, and it's thumping bass and reverb vocal makes dancing to this track almost irresistible. Also on our chart is another cut off of Mac DeMarco's Salad Days, as well as tUnE-yArDs' "Water Fountain" which received an extremely psychedelic music video this week (check it out here). And more important than all of that, check back every week for our updated Top 20!
Posted in Music, New Releases, Reviews | No Comments »
What Is The WLOY Staff Listening To? 4.6.14
Thursday, April 10th, 2014 by Billy Dries
Jordan Hernandez – Miri Ben-Ari – Hip Hop Medley
This past weekend I had the chance to see the legendary hip hop violinist Miri Ben-Ari. Words cannot describe the talent this girl has and how she has changed the face of music. You've probably heard her in the background of your favorite hip hop beats and don't even know it. Check her out and prepare for your mind to be blown!
Posted in Music, New Releases, Reviews | No Comments »
Top 20 Tracks 4.6.14
Thursday, April 10th, 2014 by Billy Dries
This weeks Top 20 is not too different from last week, but there's some great new music from Cloud Nothings on all of our charts this week. Plus we still can't stop dancing tUnE-yArDs single "Water Fountain". Check back every week for all of our updated charts.
Posted in Music, New Releases, Reviews | No Comments »
Thursday, April 3rd, 2014 by Billy Dries
Rachel Stoczko – Nalani and Sarina – Lessons Learned –
This fierce, fabulous duo graced Loyola at WLOY's Late Night on March 27th. They are simply amazing. They both play a multitude of instruments and sing like angels. Plus they're twins and super adorable and fun to watch. Check out their full studio album, Lessons Learned, which features incredibly talented artists such as Leni Stern, Will Lee and Tom "Bones" Malone. Their music will make you tap you feet and feel good!
Kat O'Brien – Maria Dontas – Feeling It
Loyola alum, Maria Dontas, impresses with this original song. The lyrics are whimsical and incredibly relatable. Coupled with superb instrumentals, the song is an instant classic.
Kait Connaughton – The Wallflowers – "One Headlight" –
This week, I'm throwing it back to a lovely little song I've been car jamming to since the ripe age of 4 years old. When did my fantastic taste in music begin? I'd like to believe it begin this nostalgia-packed 90s tune. Warms my heart with thoughts of old school nickelodeon, neon scrunchies, and the sweet sound of noise makers on the spokes of my bright pink bike through Flushing Meadows Park. Ah, the 90s.
Billy Dries – Mac DeMarco – Salad Days –
So you're just sittin' there right? And boooooom queue up the DeMarco, man. VICEROYYYYYY, you know? Bow wow ow wow, I shred on my axe all the time, bro.
Kathleen McKeveny – Cloud Nothings- Here and Nowhere Else –
Just in case you were under the impression, as I (regrettably) was , that you could outgrow punk, Dylan Baldi reminds us it is not that kind of thing. 32 minutes of forward-leaning punk, Here and Nowhere Else, is catchy even when Baldi screams things like, "I can feel your pain/ and I feel alright about it". This is the irresistably anthemic quality of Cloud Nothings. It's just so good, I can't help myself. So I won't, errrrrrriiiigggghhhttt?
Bikini Bottom: Here and Nowhere Else is the resolution to a crisis I didn't even know I had.
Posted in Music, New Releases, Reviews | No Comments »
Top 20 Tracks 3.30.14
Wednesday, April 2nd, 2014 by Billy Dries
Check out this week's top 20! With a track from Mac DeMarco's new album, Salad Days, and a new single, "Sleep Sound", by Jamie xx the top 5 is pretty stacked this week. Other songs to check out this week include "Water Fountain", the new single from tUnE-yArDs, and "Words I Don't Remember", the fantastic first single from How To Dress Well's upcoming album. Check back every week for our updated top 20!
Posted in Music, New Releases, Reviews | No Comments »
Top 30 Albums of 3.23.14
Thursday, March 27th, 2014 by Billy Dries
This weeks top 30 is as good as down home cooking, or something. It's like really good is the what I'm trying to get across, so read it , then check back every week for an updated list of our favorite albums.
Posted in Music, New Releases, Reviews, Top 40 | No Comments »
Top 20 Tracks 3.27.14
Thursday, March 27th, 2014 by Billy Dries
This week we have a new tUnE-yArDs single and a a new track by Frankie Rose's new band Beverly rushing up the chart and into the top 5. Also charting this week is Mac DeMarco's "Brother", and White Lung's "Down With The Monster". Check back every week for an updated list of our favorite tracks.
Posted in Music, New Releases, Reviews | No Comments »
What Is The WLOY Staff Listening To?
Thursday, March 20th, 2014 by Billy Dries
This album is sure to make you "Happy" (apologies for the heinous pun). Pharrell impresses with his newest album. He collaborates with Justin Timberlake, Daft Punk and Miley Cyrus. It's classic Pharrell with a new spin.
Posted in Music, New Releases, News, Reviews | No Comments »


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Meeting the stars is pure panto magic
Posted: January 19, 2013|
It all started once upon a time 40 years ago when a fat man fell off a wall and no-one could put him back together again.
And this month, a theatre is celebrating four decades of staging pantomimes after Humpty Dumpty got the show on the road back in 1973.
The Concordia Theatre, in Hinckley, was marking the milestone by giving children the chance to meet the stars of its latest production Dick Whittington and his Cat today.
Members of the Pantomime Company, based at the town theatre in Stockwell Head, were due to be on hand to give the youngsters an access all areas view of the goings-on.
John Hill, chairman of the Pantomime Company – set up 16 years ago when a previous ensemble disbanded – said: "It will be great fun.
"We might reveal some of the secrets of the magic of pantomime as the idea is to hook them to keep them coming."
Visitors were being encouraged to take cameras to the access all areas session at the theatre, from 10am until noon.
Mr Hill said: "Aladdin was the first panto I was involved with at the Concordia and that is my favourite."
John, who is producing and directing Dick Whittington, said he wanted to help convince the youngsters that the theatre was just as much fun as messing about on an electronic gadget.
John, 56, who runs his own costume hire business, said that putting on a pantomime over the years had been something of a pantomime.
He said: "On occasions if it could go wrong it did go wrong.
"One year at one of our matinee performances we were minus a very important member of the cast just before the show was due to start. So we sent a delegation to his house who dragged him out of bed." The theatre also marked the 40th panto show with a gala performance last Sunday.
The panto Dick Whittington and his Cat, which runs until February 2, is almost completely sold out.
For ticket details, call 07528 231379 or visit:


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Wrestling with ways to make your living room decor more entertaining? Champion a style that's 'teaming' with character by decking your flat with this lively lucha libre pillow! Framed by navy pom-pom trim, these masked contestants intimidate the competition with their prized belts, fierce facial expressions, power-packed poses, and color-splashed costumes. Dare to toss this bold accent pillow on a couch or side chair, and your delighted friends are sure to flip!
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Photo by Hans Gissenger
The payoff: It couldn't be easier to useor more flaky and buttery.
Leave a Review
Yummmmmm! Made this for Thanksgiving to rave reviews. Was easier than I expected - just some time for all the steps. Such a great presentation.flag if inappropriate
Made it for Thanksgiving and it has now been requested that I make it again for Christmasflag if inappropriate
This tart is incredibly delicious. I was lucky my pears were ripe and firm. Buy extra pears so you can discard under-ripe ones. They are ripe if the surface juices up when you peel them. My guests were swooning and my son-in-law just asked for the recipe. Thank you!flag if inappropriate
Very delicious. A few steps but not difficult. A definite keeper.flag if inappropriate
Made this for Thanksgiving and it was a hit!flag if inappropriate
Just divine...made once to test then made 2 at the same time..simply doubled the recipe and it worked wonders. Lots of wows and requests for the recpie. Well worth the effort and time it takes.flag if inappropriate
That low-level "mmmmmming" you heard last night was the guests at my dinner table consuming this spectacular dessert. DO splurge on the best puff pastry you can find. DO shop for fresh spices at your local natural foods store. DON'T be afraid. This is a beautifully balanced dish - the sweet and spicy aspects don't overwhelm the fruit. Definitely a signature dish.flag if inappropriate
Made this on Sunday--dry run for Thanksgiving. It was delicious and pretty. But not over the top. The syrup had the most wonderful flavor. Agree with previous reviewer that carmelization times were low. Think next time, I'll just cook the pears in the caramel sauce and serve over ice cream or with whipped cream. No need to do the rest.flag if inappropriate
This was awesome !! I had no vanilla beans so just used liquid vanilla. Followed the recipe exactly and it came out just perfect. I found the times for carmelization a bit low, but probably because I was afraid of burning it, so took my time. Just as good the next day. Will definitely make it again, and it is very impressive to look at. The recipe looks complicated, but it really isn't, just a little time consuming. Being able to do all the parts ahead of time is a real bonus.flag if inappropriate


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For the last few weeks, I've been building collages based on the
mixed-media technique using CitraSolv Concentrate written about by Cathy Taylor in the most recent
Cloth, Paper, Scissors.
This is from Week 2 and also incorporates Sheer Heaven paper.
For an explanation of how each was made, please see my blog posts on the subject!
I love it ! and have to get some information about that technique !
Nice going!
Love it .
Your collage is gorgeous and thanks for telling what you used.
Great art piece-and inspirational for sure! One of our favorite birds-we feed them every day and we are given such moments of joy when they come by the feeders and share space and time with us, and we so enjoy their lovely winter songs! This lovely work makes me think of just how beautiful our world is, right outside our window! Sometimes, life gets too involved in "stuff" that can bog us down, and art-gifts shared seem to melt away all that...isn't it funny how a shared work of art spreads its magical balm over us, and heals our lives in such profound and subtle ways? When time allows a few moments, I visit this website and view some art pieces created by such talented people as yourself; who take the time and effort to share their creations with the rest of us. I realize that this sharing is such a gift of healing and inspiration, not only to create more art, but motivation to start a project-or finish another! When I get too immersed in lifes "stuff"- I go to my quilting and art room, or I visit this great website and look at a few of just such gifts shared, and the world makes sense to me again. This lovely piece has just such an effect on me, as it speaks of nature, birds, sharing- and all that is good in our world!
A great use of materials....thank you for sharing this beautiful art piece-and information on the material that you used to achieve such a gracious work of art...I'll be watching for more of your art pieces, they are lovely! Thank you!
The cardinal is so appealing and a real standout with the surrounding elements. Will check out your blog.
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Engineering specifications show exact measurements, power requirements and product options. Download Now
For a reliable, low-maintenance ice machine, look no further than this 215 lb Self-Contained Full Cube Ice Machine - Q 210 Series (QD-0212A) from Manitowoc. This ice machine has a variety of features that ensure its durability and longevity, such as the proven, proprietary vertical evaporator technology and its removable air filter that protects the machine for grease and more. Constructed with an easy patented self-cleaning system, this machine is able to clean and sanitize itself with a simple flip of the switch. Capable of being installed under the counter or as a stand-alone unit, this machine is a reliable workhorse in a small footprint. This model is ideal for smaller volume ice production or as a back-up for larger machines, making it ideal for coffee shops, break rooms, cafes and bars.


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Pro Apache Tomcat 5/5.5 is ideal for Tomcat administrators and folks who want to configure Tomcat. Author Matthew Moodie describes configuration files, as well as administration features like security, auto-deployment, remote deployment, and datasources.
Moodie wastes no time on Java or JSP introductions, and discusses JSP and Java code minimally. He gets right to the point and teaches you to use Tomcat. (This book exclusively covers Tomcat 5.5.x as well as Tomcat 5.x, while other books still linger on version 4.) And while other Tomcat books are collaborative efforts, written by multiple authors, this book sails smoothly with Moodie's narration alone.
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This morning on the Chris Matthews Show, NBC News' Andrea Mitchell revealed that Gen. David Petraeus, the top U.S. commander in Iraq, met "very recently" with the Senate Republican caucus to discuss their strategy on Iraq legislation.Nico, as usual, has both video clip and transcript.
Two things -
Firstly, why is Petraeus in a closed-door session with the Senate minority to plot a legislative strategy for countering the Senate majority's legislation? Does he work for the United States or for George Bush? Maybe someone could explain to the general that there's a distinction between Bush as President and Bush as just another political hack - because for sure Bush himself doesn't see any such distinction.
Secondly, this means the Republican caucus, as one of Nico's commenters puts it " did not believe it would work, the Generals told them it wouldn't work, it failed three times before, and they still voted to send more troops into harm's way." All so they could march in lockstep together into Dubya's bright future. Their contempt for the people they supposedly serve beggars belief.
And the surge so far isn't helping Iraq as a whole.
The AP says: "The U.S. military death toll in March, the first full month of the security crackdown, was nearly twice that of the Iraqi army" but the BBC gets to the real tragedy - "Iraqi figures estimate civilian deaths in violence across the country rose by 13% last month". So while the US military and the rightwing cheerleaders are telling us that violence is down 25% in Baghdad, all that means it that the bad guys moved out of town and that things are actually worse overall because of Petraeus' efforts.
Sunday, April 01, 2007
Surging The Republican Caucus
Posted by Cernig at 4/01/2007 03:04:00 PM
Labels: Bush, Surge/Escalation
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Brandon Township Web siteSEMCOG Profile
Brandon Township, located at the north end of Oakland County, is a community of approximately 15,000 residents. The rural setting of the township attracts people who want to enjoy the outdoors and are looking for a bit more room to raise their children. The township surrounds the Historic Village of Ortonville.In the local neighborhoods, dirt roads with horseback riders and tractors are typical, with plenty of wildlife all around. New homes and planned subdivisions have been developing over the last several years adding diversity to the neighborhood. This is county living that's just a stone's throw from major shopping like Great Lakes Crossing, and entertainment attractions like DTE Energy Theatre, The Palace, and Pine Knob Ski Resort. Brandon's motto says it all, "Brandon Township Tops in Oakland County."
Brandon Township395 Mill Street, P.O. Box 929, Ortonville, MI 48462Oxford Schools105 Pontiac Street, Oxford, MI 48371Phone: 248- 969-5000
Brandon Schools1025 South Ortonville Road, Ortonville, MI 48462Phone: 248-627-1800
Greater Ortonville Chamber of CommerceP.O. Box 152, Ortonville, MI 48462Phone: 248-627-8079
Community EssentialsAshton Orchard & Cider Mill3825 Seymour Lake Road, Ortonville, MI 48348Phone: 248-627-6671
Brandon Senior Center345 Ball Street, Ortonville, MI 48462Phone: 248-627-6447
Brandon Township Parks and Recreation395 Mill Street, P.O. Box 929, Ortonville, MI 48462Phone: 248-627-4640
Brandon Township Preservation Committee
Brandon Township Public Library
304 South Street, Ortonville, MI 48462Phone: 248-627-1460
Clearwater Campground1140 South Ortonville Road, Ortonville MI, 48467Phone: 248-627-3820
Cook's Farm Dairy2950 Seymour Lake Road, Ortonville, MI 48462Phone: 248-627-3329
Folks with Shades of Blue366 Mill Street, P.O. Box 155, Ortonville, MI 48462
Middleton Berry Farms4888 Oakwood Road, Ortonville, MI 48462Phone: 248-628-1819
Ortonville Community Historical Society366 Mill Street, P.O. Box 155, Ortonville, MI 48462Phone: 248-627-3893
Ortonville Historical Society Museum366 Mill Street, P.O. Box 155, Ortonville, MI 48462
Ortonville Recreation Area5779 Hadley Road, Ortonville, MI 48462Phone: 810-797-4439
Tamarack Camps (Camp Maas)(Summer address and phone number)4361 Perryville Road, Ortonville, MI 48462Phone: 248-627-2821


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Archive for the 'Covington Shark' tag
Four-Links – Leno and the Shark, Cummins at Indy, Sensuous Steel, street freak Challenger
* Our Forgotten Fiberglass friend Geoff Hacker and his Renault-powered Shark fiberglass car appeared on Jay Leno's Garage this week. Worth a view.
* Cummins put together this neat timeline and history of the diesel engine manufacturer's Indy 500 involvement.
* The Old Motor this week included some photos of the Frist Center for the Visual Arts's Sensuous Steel art deco automobiles exhibit.
* Seventies street freak style has been making a comeback lately, but we'd never have expected to see this Magic Powder Dodge Challenger pop up in Japan.
* Then again, as this photo that Jesse at justacarguy turned up this week, that Challenger isn't the only muscular Mopar in the land of the rising sun.
Shark on the hook for Amelia Island Concours
I have a little clock on my desk that shows me how much time we have left until our 1962 Shark Roadster debuts at the Amelia Island Concours d'Elegance this Sunday. The clock, which has been running since late last year, showed 144 hours left this morning. You would think that having owned the car for 32 years that planning would be paramount and time would be a luxury. Well, half of that statement is right and that concerns "planning." We started the planning of the restoration in October last year, started gathering parts in November, and this gave us three months to get the Shark ready. Ninety days. Age must not have brought wisdom for me but it did bring me friends who are talented, enthusiastic, far smarter than me, and who have helped at every stage of the restoration. If you're planning to see Amelia this year, stop by and say hi.
Four-Links – George Barbaz, RPU jump seat, Brooks Stevens on the victory car, the Covington Shark
* Over at Dean's Garage this week, Dick Nesbitt posted a reflection on George Barbaz, a designer with Ford from 1945 through 1981.
* NealinCA's recent (and well deserved) Tech Week win over at the H.A.M.B. came for the jump seat he built from scratch for his bare-metal roadster pickup. Check out the step-by-step to see how a true craftsman works.
* The prognostication about what the post-war car would look like – as published in the December 1942 issue of Popular Mechanics and reprinted by Modern Mechanix – would have been just another idle bit of paleofuture were it not for the byline of Brooks Stevens. It's interesting how close he got in some respects and how far off the mark he got in others.
* For more on the conception of the Covington Shark, we turn to Geoff Hacker's recent post on Forgotten Fiberglass.
* Finally, an excellent shot, courtesy David Greenlees at The Old Motor, of John Cobb catching some air in the Napier-Railton Special at Brooklands.
Misfits roundup, 1962
In our research on the history of the Jabro last week, we came across a mention of Ed Alsbury's mid-engine Jabro appearing in another issue of Mechanix Illustrated, a few years later in April 1962. Indeed, we had a copy of that issue in our collection and discovered a gold mine of oddities to go along with it. Normally, MI dedicated just a page or two every month to some unusual automobile – an Eastern Bloc miserymobile or some sort of homemade contraption – but it appears the magazine had a backlog of such stories, and the editors decided to have a blowout this issue.
According to our friend Geoff Hacker, who owns three Covingtons – a coupe and two convertibles – the El Tiburon coupe in the story above was later destroyed, but this very Mechanix Illustrated article influenced the original owner of Geoff's coupe to purchase and build one of his own, though on a Porsche 356 chassis.
As for the Hickey Trail Blazer, according to Hickey's profile over at the Off-Road Motorsports Hall of Fame, it was thanks to the Trail Blazer that Ed Cole offered Hickey a job as research and development engineer at GM, specializing in off-road vehicles. Hickey would later build a larger racing version of the Trail Blazer called the Baja Boot that would see quite a bit of success in off-road racing.
The DiDia is still around, as we saw at the 2010 Amelia Island Concours d'Elegance. Mel Gould was no stranger to the pages of Mechanix Illustrated – he was also behind the Purple People Eater Crosley.
Ah, here's what we were looking for, Alsbury's Jabro, though we have no idea on its current whereabouts. As for the Stiletto, coincidentally one showed up at Amelia Island in 2010 as well, though we're going to leave it to the Stiletto experts to tell us for sure whether that one (Bob Carnes's "factory" car, damaged in the December 1961 factory fire, then later rebuilt and eventually owned and raced by Bob Spooner) is the same one that appeared here in the pages of MI.
While the Von Dwingelo T-bird has an entry on Kustomrama, it seems all that anybody knows of him or the car is relegated the the few magazine articles done on them at this time.


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7th Beauty Biz Roundtable
Posted: April 23, 2012
BBR7 thought leaders, from left: Cindy Engstrom, Jennifer Parks, Terri Ross, Adrienne Kramer, Frances Mazur, Suzi Weiss-Fischmann, Kym Wechsler, Elaine Binder, Dana B. Myers and Nicolle Lubman.
page 2 of 2
The evening began with a cocktail hour for open networking followed by the keynote, and then guests were able to interact directly with thought leaders and other attendees in three rounds of roundtable discussions. "BBR is unique in its roundtable format and informal, relaxed environment for networking. Attendees really have a chance to get to know each other and the thought leaders," said Weiss-Fischmann.


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My research program focuses on clinical care and patient-provider communication at the end of pregnancy, particularly regarding induction of labor and obstetric interventions. My research experience includes qualitative and quantitative studies of wome's preferences regarding induction of labor, projects aimed at estimating the optimal timing of induction of labor utilizing decision analysis and cost effectiveness techniques, and examining the association between induction of labor and maternal and neonatal morbidity using the National Center for Health Statistics Natality Data Set.
View my most recent publications at PubMed
Kaimal AJ, Zlatnik MG, Cheng YW, et al. Effect of a change in policy regarding the timing of prophylactic antibiotics on the rate of postcesarean delivery surgical-site infections. Am J Obstet Gynecol, 2008; 199(3):310.e311-315. PubMed PMID: 18771995.
Janakiraman VJ, Ecker JE, Kaimal AJ. Comparing the second stage in induced and spontaneous labor. Obstet Gynecol. 2010 Sep;116(3):606-11. PMID: 20733442.
Kaimal AJ, Kuppermann M. Understanding risk, patient and provider preferences, and obstetric decision making: Approach to delivery after cesarean. Semin Perinatol, 2010 Oct;34(5):331-6. PMID: 20869549.
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Water Cooler Wars: Battle Google vs. Bing
battle Google vs. Bing
Jake: Bing is best
I am no fan of the Microsoft world. I avoid buying PCs if I can, and I raged against the Xbox machine until a friend of mine got one for me so we could play "Gears of War" online. I always thought I would be a Google guy until the day I died rather than finding a way to jump on the Bing search engine train.
But the search engine got me not so long ago and ever since, I have not been able to escape its grasp. In fact, I don't know if I want to.
When Bing was released, I thought it a foolish gesture by Microsoft. Google has the search engine market cornered like no other, and if someone was going to stray, they would probably go for Yahoo! And the more I looked at Bing, the more it annoyed me. Its searches were clumsy, their results were mediocre and I couldn't get around the mix of a bare-bones home page that tried to be a busier one.
Then, like anything in life, I just let it sit for a bit. You know when a new restaurant opens, you try not to go there for the first couple weeks or so because there are always kinks to work out? Well, I thought the same thing about this new search engine. Nothing worth visiting regularly is going to work like a charm on the first day, and we shouldn't hold search engines to that kind of scrutiny. So, I used Google for a while longer and eventually found my way back to Bing.
Lo and behold, what I found was a thing of beauty. Rather than a stark, boring home page, I was treated to a striking photo of a beautiful part of the world. With each click on a different part of the picture, I was transported to a new aspect of that place and learned a little more about the world I live in. The next day, I saw a picture of a fox. But this was no ordinary fox. This fox was endangered and displayed amazing survival skills that I had never heard of before. And I wouldn't have known anything about it had I not visited Bing that day.
Some might say that this is not the way a search engine should be. It should just give you the option to search and not provide you with any information other than that which you asked it to give. To them, I say, "Quit with your boring boringness."
Search engines are all about information and learning and understanding. Just because you didn't ask to learn something doesn't mean it won't be fascinating. We should embrace this idea that we can learn more than we expected and actively pursue that knowledge day in and day out. And, the fact is, Bing is just about as good as Google in finding the things you are looking for.
Sure, I like Google Maps a lot better than any other maps app out there. And when it comes to images, they are pretty good about putting that information together fast and efficiently. But just because you quaintly change your logo to reflect the next national holiday or to celebrate some famous person's birthday doesn't mean you are the best of the best.
It just means you got there first.
Michael: There's a reason we say 'Google'
When it comes to products that I buy and services that I use, I try to never be so loyal that I get taken advantage of or miss out on a great product or better service. This is due in part to me being an expert-level miser in training, but I'm also not too big on monopolies, and I know just as well as anyone else that even the most respectable companies will put out a lemon from time to time.
It may come as a surprise, then, that I actively participate in furthering the dominance of one of the greatest monopolies in the Internet world today. When it comes to search engines, I have used Google almost exclusively ever since the search engine came to prominence years ago. I never gave any thought to just how much of a monopoly Google is in the world of search engines until Jake and I started going back and forth about the search engines people use.
A little research will show you that during an average day, Google beats the next most popular search engine, Baidu, by about 100 billion searches. Google's 65.2 percent share of the overall search landscape dwarfs Microsoft's 2.5 percent share or Yahoo's 4.9 percent. Google might even be perceived as a search engine bully, but in this case I've got to back the service that has become second nature for me to use.
I'm not saying I would be lost without it, but Google's search engine is an efficient and powerful search engine that gives me exactly what I want in accurate results and everything I don't in pop-up ads and other obtrusive forms of advertising. When I recently bought a new computer, I actively searched out the Google search bar for my preferred web browser. It's become as indispensable to me as the clock and calendar apps on my phone.
I've used Yahoo in the past and wasn't wild for its cluttered home page, while Bing has been nothing but unpleasant for me. The fact that Microsoft did all but hide the "Bing Desktop" in a Windows update and effectively forced wallpaper and a Bing search bar on users in April of last year was one of the more heinous pleas for attention I've seen in the software world in a while. Meanwhile, other than a changing logo from time to time, Google's search engine remains the same.
I might feel bad about sticking with the biggest search engine around, but Google doesn't have a monopoly on everything. The company's foray into social networking in Google+ is a great deal like Leonardo DiCaprio was in "What's Eating Gilbert Grape" — it's pretty annoying and it could die at any time. Meanwhile, Google Docs is floundering in the wake of Microsoft Office, so while the company excels with search engines and Android, it isn't dominating the market with every move it makes. Until another no-frills, spectacular search engine emerges, I'll stick with Google, and for once I won't mind supporting the big name.
Next issue: battle JJ Abrams
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Looks like that little iPhone leak just got a bit nasty for Gizmodo since Jason Chen's house got raided by the police.
There are plenty of editorial posts making their way around the web. Most of the opinions are calling the cops dirty names. However, the best legal analysis I've seen so far comes from Kim Zetter over at Wired, although she is quoting an EFF attorney, who was clearly making a case for Chen.
Here's a roundup of the other editorials:
TechCrunch (1)
TechCrunch (2)
Slashdot (with the typical comment thread)
My thoughts?
It's always fun until someone's house gets raided by the police.
Giz was clearly playing with fire here. If you recall my prior analysis, I think the facts we continued to learn since then have only strengthened the criminal case against the Finder, Giz and maybe Chen too.
If the warrant gets thrown out, which it certainly could in light of the federal Privacy Protection Act pointed out by Zetter (I think the CA Shield law is more of a gray area with regard to the subpoena in question), the confidential finder is in a much better position. I imagine that Gawker's attorneys are working on the motion to quash the subpoena right now. However, considering the potential criminal nature of the acts, there is still the possibility that the facts made public at this juncture are enough to keep Giz and Co. on the criminal liability hook.
Stay tuned, 'cause this is just starting to wind up.


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Snag the $89 rate March 14-31, or visit in April for $10 more; travel in May is an additional $20.
Set on 13 acres, the hotel boasts a heated junior Olympic-sized pool, spa tub and restaurant with fire pits. Parking and access to the health club are also included.
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Please go to your email and confirm your subscription.


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Drew Brees Big Head: Now you can get your head in the game with your very own cut out of Drew Brees' face. Unlike giant head posters or other player head photos, NFL Big Heads are sturdy and big enough to stand out in any crowd. There's no better way to prove you're a fan than with an officially licensed NFL Fathead Big Head.
Team: New Orleans Saints
Position: Quarterback
Born: January 15, 1979 in Austin, Texas
College: Purdue
Turned Pro: 2001
Awards / Notes: Brees is a Super XLIV Champion and he was named Super Bowl XLIV MVP. In 2010, he was named AP Male Athlete of the Year, 2010 Sportsman of the Year and he won the Galloping Gobbler Award. In 2008, he was named NFL Offensive Player of the Year. He is a 6 time Pro Bowl selection (2004, 2006, 2008-2011), 4 time All-Pro selection (2006, 2008-2009, 2011), 3 time NFC Offensive Player of the Year (2006, 2008, 2009) and 2 time NFC MVP (2008, 2009). In 2011, Drew Brees broke Dan Marino's 27 year-old record for most passing yards in one season (5,084) in the 15th game of the season (week 16) against the Atlanta Falcons at home in New Orleans at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome with a TD pass to Darren Sproles.
What Are Fathead Big Heads?: Fathead Big Heads are portable cutouts of players' heads or your own head (we make Custom Big Heads too). That's right, the head and nothing but the head (well the face actually). Fathead Big Heads are printed on high density foam core and die cut around the face. They are meant to be held up and displayed with the kind of passion that would lead you to buy someone's head at ten times normal size. Which is not normal, but is very Fathead. Fathead Big Heads fully embrace the saying, "Get Your Head in the Game!"
What It's Made Of: A Fathead Big Head is printed on high density 3/16 inch foam core and die cut around the player's face. They are not wall graphics or self-adhesive.
Suggested Uses: Fathead Big Heads are designed so you can take them with you. Hold up a Fathead Big Head at the big game to psych out the opposing team! Make a Custom Big Head of your child and show your support at their sporting event! Fathead Big Heads are also perfect for birthday and office parties. However you choose to use them, they are meant to stand out in a crowd.
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Comments about Fathead Drew Brees Big Head:
This was purchased for my 20 year old daughter who is a BIG fan of Drew Brees. Upon opening the package on Christmas morning, she shrieked "OH MY GOSH, I HAVE MY OWN DREW!" Then she began thinking of ways to attach "him" to her car seat so that he could go everywhere with her.
Applying Fathead decals that require the rub on transfer application requires patience and a strict observance of the installation steps. Unlike our standard peel and stick wall decals, they are not movable or reusable so it's very important to follow the instructions and do it right the first time. Instructions are included with the product, but if you'd like a preview of how to install one, or if you need to print a copy, please click on one of the buttons below:
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*Valid only at www.fathead.com. Offer cannot be combined with any other offer or applied to previous purchases. Does not apply to gift cards or already discounted items. A minimum purchase of $99 is required to apply promotion code 2599OCT15. Discount will be applied evenly across all qualifying items upon checkout.


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All is in place for a violent confrontation in Burundi. The failed coup on 13 May has intensified opposition to President Pierre Nkurunziza's push for a third term in office. After ten years of peace, Burundi is in danger of reopening the fault lines that once led the country into civil war.
01 October 2015
Political violence and insecurity increased in Bujumbura as govt-opposition dialogue remained deadlocked. Tensions increased within security forces and ruling CNDD-FDD: army chief of staff General ...
The ever-decreasing likelihood of a free and fair presidential election is in growing conflict with a popular desire for change in Burundi. To safeguard the Arusha principles agreed in 2000 to end Burundi's civil war, the opposition and President Nkurunziza in particular must return to the path of democracy and dialogue.
To avoid a revival of past ethnic tensions between Hutu and Tutsi, Burundi needs to find the right balance between land restitution and national reconciliation.
Since the 2010 boycotted elections, Burundi is steadily drifting away from what was initially regarded as a peacemaking model, and violence from both the ruling party and the opposition is threatening stability.
Despite the establishment of anti-corruption agencies, Burundi is facing a deepening corruption crisis that jeopardises prospects for lasting peace and stability.
Burundi risks reversing the decade of progress it has enjoyed since its civil war ended unless the government resumes political dialogue with the opposition.
Burundi's escape from its long civil war can only be solidified if all political forces, including government, opposition parties, civil society and media ensure that this year's series of elections is truly democratic. The International Crisis Group examines the rise in tensions before communal, presidential and legislative elections.
The Burundi peace process has made much progress in recent months. The last rebel group, the Party for the Liberation of the Hutu People – National Forces of Liberation (Palipehutu-FNL), has renounced the use of arms and been registered as a political party. It has also changed its name, in accordance with the law prohibiting party names with an ethnic connotation, to the National Forces of Liberation (FNL).
Despite progress in implementing a peace agreement with the Party for the Liberation of the Hutu People - National Forces of Liberation (Palipehutu-FNL), the last active rebel movement, Burundi is going through a dangerous political crisis which could compromise the holding of free and fair elections in 2010 and the country's future stability.
More commentary
Burundi: Stifling Dissent
25 Jan 2013:
Communications Officer, Samer Abu Rass, visited Bujumbura where he discussed the government's creeping authoritarianism with journalists, civil society actors, and lawyers.
March 2012: Our Communications Officer Samer Abu Rass travelled to Burundi to interview people from local communities and meet with our field analysts to gain further insights ahead of a new report on this land-locked country. View photos from his trip on Flickr.
Burundi : la crise de corruption
26 mars 2012: Thierry Vircoulon, directeur du projet pour l'Afrique centrale de l'International Crisis Group, revient sur la nature, très politique, de la corruption au Burundi, et Il en expose les conséquences sur le développement du pays, et définit des recours pour lutter contre le problème.
International Crisis Group © 2015 |


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Despite a long-simmering crush on Johnny Cash (that I'll have you know existed long, long before he was portrayed by Joaquin Phoenix in Walk the Line… not that there was anything wrong with THAT), I vehemently deny any affection for country music. And, for that reason, Nashville has never been high on my list of Cities I Must Visit. So when the time came to go to Nashville for the conference department's annual site visit, when we "dry run" all the field sessions, I looked forward to the barbecue more than anything else.
Friends, I was WRONG, so very, very, wrong.
Over the next few months, the staff of the National Preservation Conference will be blogging about our experiences during this trip in Nashville. What we found was a city rich in history, yet amazingly hip. That music industry -- the one I thought of as Hee-Haw writ large -- transcends genres and displays infinitely more talent than you'll find in the Billboard Top 40. The neighborhoods are charming, and tell stories of decline and revitalization, of visionaries who fought for a diverse and vibrant urban fabric. Civil War history is thick there -- The Battle of Nashville and the Battle of Franklin await discovery only miles from Lower Broad, where honky-tonks offer live music all day long and Hatch Show Print sells vintage letterpress posters alongside those for the hottest shows currently on tour. Fisk University helps tell the story of the civil rights movement and the important strides that were made in Nashville. The compact downtown includes icons such as the Ryman Auditorium, churches where Presidents worshiped, live music, residential lofts, the Tennessee State Capitol, live music, a state of the art symphony center, several historic hotels, the Country Music Hall of Fame, and live music. And preserving all of this -- the buildings, the history, the culture, the landscapes -- is a priority to the city and to the residents. This is a town of proud and extremely hospitable people, who made us feel welcome everywhere we went.
So, to prepare for Nashville, I recommend that you go get yourself some Jack Daniels and read our blog as we'll be periodically filling you in on special Nashville places and stories. You can then make your own lists of "must-sees," and "can't misses" (because those are the only categories I came up with after two weeks in town).
And I wasn't wrong about the barbecue. There is plenty of good 'cue in Nashville, too.
Lori Feinman is the associate director for conferences and training in the Center for Preservation Leadership at the National Trust for Historic Preservation. The 2009 National Preservation Conference will take place October 13-19 in Nashville. Registration opens on June 1.
The National Trust for Historic Preservation works to save America's historic places. Join us today to help protect the places that matter to you.


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Our Cherry Moon Living Room Table Set includes occasional tables that feature sleek, reverse tapered legs and elegant, cove edging on the table tops. Each table is handcrafted in Vermont using sustainably harvested, solid woods and an eco-friendly non-toxic oil finish.
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Current lead time for this product is approximately 10-14 weeks, including both crafting and shipping of your furniture.
In some cases, for example with small coffee tables, we use standard shipping via Fed Ex or similar carrier. Shipping and delivery details.
All shipping times quoted are approximate only and are not guaranteed.


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|The photograph above shows the First Baptist Church built in 1909 on
the northwest corner of E. Green Street and N. Randolph Street. The
building was demolished in 1958 and the site is used as parking for the
current church building.
The photograph below shows the First Presbyterian Church built circa
1900 on the southeast corner of E. Washington Street and S.
Randolph Street. The building was demolished circa 1960.


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Draft Press Conferences
Palabras clave
Joe Dumars, President of Basketball Operations , introduces new... Fotografía de noticiasAuburn Hills,Baloncesto,Basket-ball - NBA Pro,Chauncey Billups,Conferencia de prensa,Deporte,Detroit Pistons,EE.UU.,Horizontal,Joe Dumars,Michigan,NuevoPhotographer Allen EinsteinCollection: National Basketball Association 2013 NBAEAUBURN HILLS, MI - JULY 16: Joe Dumars, President of Basketball Operations (R), introduces new Detroit Piston, Chauncey Billups, at a press conference at Palace of Auburn Hills on July 16, 2013 at Palace of Auburn Hills in Auburn Hills, Michigan. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2013 NBAE (Photo by Allen Einstein/NBAE via Getty Images)


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Great location. 2 minutes from MTR stop. Room is small but clean. Good place for a cheap…
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A man was killed after being pushed in front of an approaching No. 7 train in Sunnyside last night, the second incident of its kind in New York City this month.
Sunando Sen was pushed as the Flushing-bound train approached the 40th Street station at approximately 8 p.m.
As the train pulled into the station, the suspect rose from a nearby bench and shoved the man, who did not notice her, witnesses said.
The suspect fled out of the station after pushing the victim and was caught on surveillance near the train. There are no security cameras in the station, a situation Councilmember Jimmy Van Bramer said he will push to change.
"It does strike me that in a post-9/11 world that there are no cameras at any stop," Van Bramer said.
She is described as Hispanic, 5-feet-5-inches tall, weighing 190 pounds. She was last seen wearing a blue, gray and white jacket and Nike sneakers. Police are offering a $12,000 reward for capture.
The suspect reportedly was seen mumbling and pacing on the platform before shoving the man.
Ki-Suk Han, 58, of Elmhurst, was killed on December 3 when he was pushed in front of a Q train at the 49th Street-Seventh Avenue station. Suspect Naeem Davis was arrested and charged with second-degree murder.
– Additional reporting by Maggie Hayes


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Welcome to the Workshop Rotation Ideas & Lesson Exchange
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Originally posted by member LDM, 2008SAUL, THE CONFUSED PEPPER GRINDERAn object theatre play on the conversion of the Apostle Paul on the Road to Damascus. © July 2007 LD McKenzieNARRATOR:Once there was a confused pepper grinder named Saul.Saul went around peppering all kinds of forks, spoons, garlic presses, pizza wheels and such that he didn't like because they were followers of the Way.Saul thought the only way was the culinary way (or way of good cooking), and that no one knew how to grind pepper properly but him.People of the way put far too much emphasis on good table manners, Saul thought. So he peppered all the people he thought did it all wrong.One day as he strutted toward the town of Damascus topped up with fresh pepper, he was flattened by a brilliant shower of salt.He fell to the ground with such force that it nearly knocked all the pepper out of him and popped his grinding crank off.He heard a voice say, "Saul, Saul, why are you peppering me?"Saul asked, "Who are you, Almighty Salt Shaker?"And the salt shaker answered, "It is I, Jesus, whom you are peppering."The Almighty Salt Shaker told Saul to get up and go into town to learn some manners. But when Saul tried to get up, his crank was loose. It wouldn't turn. He wasn't himself. He wasn't as strong as before. He was a crank without a crank. The other shakers and grinders he had traveled with had to lead him into town by the almost popped off crank.In the meantime the Almighty Salt Shaker appeared to a cheese grater named Andy. He said, "Andy, go and help that pepper grinder named Saul."Andy said, "No way. That grinder is bad news. He peppers all my friends. He has no manners.The Shaker said, "Well too bad. He's the one. Go teach him some manners, like I said."So Andy went and found Saul and told him the Almighty Salt Shaker said to come and teach him a few manners. Then suddenly Saul's crank moved and he could grind pepper again.Saul soon learned some manners. He became a new man, even changed his name to something way different – Paul. And he didn't pester people of the way with pepper any more.He worked with the people of the way, adding just enough spice to make everything brought to the table truly splendid and savoury.THE END!> Other neat ideas in this lesson set include: arts/silhouette portraits; kitchen/rocky road pizzas; writing/ imaginary letter from Paul to friend about the incident; games; music/songs to teach; computer. For more detail, click here (LD's free Rotation curric site).
SUMMARY: After a "Saul experience," the children will retell his story using puppets and will explore what it means to be a new person in Christ.
Scripture Reference: Acts 9: 1-19Memory Verse: "What this means is that those who become Christians become new persons. They are not the same anymore, for the old life is gone. A new life has begun!" II Corinthians 5:17 (NLT)
Objectives for the rotation
At the end of the rotation, the students will...
Additional objectives for the Drama WorkshopAt the end of the session, the students will
Teacher preparation in advance:
Room set-up:Puppet stage at one side. Large clear area or chairs where children can sit for guided imagery.Supply List
Welcome and Introductions:
Greet the children and introduce yourself. Wear your name-tag. (Remember, you are interacting with a different group of students each week who may not know you.) Make sure the children are wearing name-tags.We had an opening prayer during the gathering time, but you may open with prayer if you feel led to do so.Explain the purpose of this workshop: Today we will retell Saul's story using puppets after we consider his experience of meeting Christ on the road to Damascus and what happened to him when he met Jesus.Scripture/Bible Story:Today's story comes from Acts. This is the book of the Bible that follows the four Gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke and John) that contains the history of what Jesus' followers did after his death and resurrection and the coming of the Holy Spirit. This rotation we are focusing on one of those followers, the Apostle Paul. His parents named him Saul, but when he traveled in Roman countries, he used his Roman name, Paul. Today we will call him Saul, as the scripture does, because he is in Jewish lands and dealing with Jewish people.Read the scripture: Acts 9: 1-19. (Encourage the children to use their Bibles in looking up verses and ask for volunteers to take turns reading. With younger children, read to them Acts 9: 3-5 and 9: 10-18 and tell the rest of the story in your own words.)DIG:Application:Warm-up exercise: Guided Imagery
Have the children sit comfortably (if you have space, they may lie on the floor)."We are going to imagine what Saul might have felt like. Please sit/lie comfortably and quietly. [Have the children spread out as much as possible.] Close your eyes and see what you see with your mind's eye as we think about our story. Please do not say anything — we will discuss your impressions when we are done.""Think about a long trip you have taken, maybe to visit your grandmother or to go on a vacation to Disney World or to play in a baseball or soccer tournament. Saul is taking a long trip like that. Except he is not traveling by car or airplane but by foot or donkey."So imagine you are now Saul. You have been traveling for a long time — for almost a week. It is a long, dry journey. You are looking forward to arriving in Damascus and doing something important — something that you know God approves of. Even though you are tired, you are happy, because you want to spend your life doing God's work."Suddenly, there is a bright light! (Think about how much the sun hurts your eyes when you accidently look towards it, maybe to see a ball in the air or when it is shining on your side of the car. What is happening now is much brighter and more painful than just having the sun in your eyes.) It hurts! It stings! It hurts so much you close your eyes and fall to the ground."And then you hear it. A voice. A voice you have never heard before, yet it sounds familiar. And it is someone calling your name. 'Saul! Saul! Why are you persecuting me?'"You answer, 'Who are you, sir?'"And the voice replies, 'I am Jesus, the one you are persecuting! Now get up and go into the city, and you will be told what to do.'"You lie there, wondering... What should you do? Nothing like this has ever happened to you before. Or to anyone you know."But you know what to do. You know you must obey. You open your eyes and get up. But what is wrong? You still can't see. You stumble and one of your traveling companions comes to assist you."You finally make it to Damascus. You can't see anything. You don't want to eat or drink anything. What do you do for these three days of fasting (not eating or drinking)?"Spend a few minutes quietly thinking about how Saul reacted and spent those next three days until the Lord sent Ananias.""Let's talk about what you felt and saw. (Discussion questions from Catherine in the rotation.org lesson plan: FAITH QUEST - Paul on the Road to Damascus - Praising Puppets)∙ Who appears and speaks to Saul on his trip to Damascus? [Jesus]∙ Jesus makes Saul blind. I wonder why Jesus did that? [This is a really important concept because it makes people think about how Jesus/God accomplishes God's purposes. If the children don't have any ideas, you can get them thinking by saying, "I wonder whether Jesus was trying to: ∙ show Saul how bad blindness is, ∙ get Saul's attention, ∙ keep Saul from going after Christians, ∙ give Saul a few days to think about what Jesus had said to him, ∙ show Saul Jesus' power, ∙ show Saul that he was 'blind' to the truth about Jesus, ∙ give Saul a chance to experience Christian love during and just after his blindness]∙ What happens to Saul while he is blind? [He seems to have accepted Jesus and become one of his followers.]∙ What does it mean to accept Jesus? [Believe God raised Jesus from the dead, make Jesus Lord over your life.]Any questions/comments about your "Saul Experience"?Reenact the story with puppets:
"Now we are going to use our puppets and reenact the story of Saul on the road to Damascus. Let's think about the story.∙ Who are characters in the story that our puppets can be?" [Saul, Jesus, people traveling with Saul, Judas, Ananias, Jewish leaders, people being persecuted, people Saul preaches to after his conversion]∙ Where does the story take place? [Jerusalem, road to Damascus, home of Judas, home of Ananias]"Introduce the puppets, puppet care, and puppet skills. If there are enough puppets, let each child have a puppet (any puppet) to practice manipulation. If there are not enough puppets, have everyone practice with "invisible puppets" (hand held like a puppet). Do this around the puppet stage/table. Demonstrate how to move the puppets. Have all the puppets jump, nod, shake their head, act happy, act sad, act afraid, act mad, pray, preach, see a bright light, fall over, etc. If desired, this can be done in a "Simon Says" game format.Assign parts and have the children create movement and dialog as the scripture/narration is read. (See the script that follows or create your own.) Encourage creative dialog. Remember, there are no right or wrong answers.If there are more children than puppets, some can watch while the others do the puppet show. (The audience is a very important job!) Then, reassign parts and do it again. (Let those who watched the first time have first choice on parts for the second performance. If more than one child wants a part, draw names.)If time permits, do the puppet show several times, allowing the children to create different dialog each time.REFLECT:Pulling it all together (closing discussion):∙ After Saul met the risen Jesus he was a changed man. His life was totally different. In what ways was his life different? How could people see that something had changed?∙ Do you think Jesus only chooses people who spend their lives studying the Bible (like Saul) to do his work? What sort of person does He choose?∙ How do others know that you are a believer? What in your life is evidence of it?∙ What sorts of things do you think Saul said to the people to whom he was preaching?Review the memory verse. Read the memory verse from a poster together. Divide the class into groups of 3 or 4. Give each group a set of index cards with one word of the verse written on each card. Have them put the words in order.By 11:45 a.m. ask the Shepherd to pass out the journal pages and pencils/markers. Suggestion: You may wish to give the children a sticker or some memento to paste in their journal as a reminder of the story or activity.Shepherd Time:[Journal Questions adapted from Saul's Conversion-State Street UMC: CyberSpace - Computer Workshop lesson plan.]Younger children: Saul heard Jesus' voice and saw a great light. Draw a picture of what you think this looked like.Older children: What do you think Saul was thinking while he was blind in Damascus for 3 days? What do you think he did?This is meant to be a time of reflection and introspection. Writing about faith helps clarify lessons. In addition to the suggested activity, children may draw pictures relating to today's scripture or memory verse, list highlights of the day's activities, or rephrase the memory verse. The journal pages will be saved and given to the children at the end of the school year.You may want to provide an extra activity or worksheet for children who finish their journals quickly, such as coloring sheets, crossword puzzles, word searches, games. See the Workshop Leader's Background Notes and rotation.org for ideas.Before noon, ask the students to stop journaling for a moment and sit quietly for prayer so they can leave when their parents arrive. Allow them to finish journaling afterwards.Closing prayer:
Jesus, we sometimes act like we are blind to your love and to all that you have given us. Help us to see you with new eyes and to serve you in all we do and say. Be with us and guide us. Help us to share the good news of your light in our lives with our friends and family. In your name we pray, Amen.Additional Suggestions:
You will need to decide how best to adjust the lesson for older and younger students, including which journal question to use. Keep the children active and involved in activity. Do what works for you and the children. Some ideas in addition to those included in the lesson plan:Older children:∙ Sometimes older children think that puppets are babyish. If time permits, consider inviting a preschool class to see their "performance" (warn their teacher that it will NOT be a polished performance).∙ Allow one of the students to read the narrator's script.∙ Have a volunteer be Saul and read one of his sermon/life stories to the "congregation" (Acts 22:3-21 and Acts 26:2-23).Younger Children:∙ For classes composed primarily of pre-readers, show the children how to find the passage in the Bible (for example, "Acts follows the Gospels. To find the Gospels, open the Bible in the middle and then open the second half in the middle - you should end up in Matthew, Mark, Luke, or John. Acts is after John.) and then have them do it. After everyone has found the passage, have them close their Bibles and listen while you read.∙ Encourage them to hold their puppets tall and to speak loudly and clearly, but remind them that this is not expected to be a polished performance. If the children's heads are showing behind the puppet stage or table, that is okay.ResourcesCatherine. "Faith Quest on the Road to Damascus - Praising Puppets Workshop." Saul to Paul - Lesson set by Kirk of Kildaire Presbyterian Church.Derden, Jaymie. "Paul's Conversion - A Blinding Light! - CyberSpace - Computer Workshop." Saul's Conversion-State Street UMC (Bristol, Virginia) lesson plan at rotation.org. (Source of journal questions and closing discussion questions.)For additional information on using puppets and drama to bring Bible stories to life, see Amy Crane's Puppet Workshop Instructions in the Workshop Design and Teaching Resources section of the IDEA AND LESSON EXCHANGEScripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Wheaton, Illinois 60189. All rights reserved.*****SAUL ON THE ROAD TO DAMASCUSPUPPET WORKSHOPNARRATOR'S SCRIPTAdapted from the New Living Translation[Narrator should pause at indicated points to allow students to improvise dialog and act out the story with their puppets.]Once, long ago, there lived a man named Saul. Saul was an educated man who believed in the one true God. He served and worshiped God. And he believed that followers of The Way — followers of a criminal named Jesus who had been executed — were going against God and should be punished.[Saul puppet appears on stage, bows, and introduces self.]Saul asked the Jewish leaders in Jerusalem to send him to Damascus, a city about 150 miles from Jerusalem, so that he could take care of any followers of The Way he found there.[Saul confers with leaders and then departs with a few companions.]It was a long journey to Damascus — several days.[Journeying.]As Saul and his companions were nearing Damascus, a brilliant light from heaven suddenly beamed down upon him! Saul fell to the ground and heard a voice speaking to him:[Shine flashlight, puppet falls, voice asks, "Why are you persecuting me?" Tells Saul to go into the city.]The men traveling with Saul stood speechless with surprise, for they heard the sound of someone's voice, but saw no one![Traveling companions react.]Saul was startled to discover he was blind — he couldn't see a thing![Saul reacts, traveling companions help Saul on his way.]Saul's traveling companions led him to Damascus. For three days he went without food and water.[Show Saul and his caregivers.]Now there was a believer, a follower of The Way, in Damascus named Ananias. The Lord spoke to him in a vision:[Lord tells Ananias to go to the house of Judas on Straight Street. Ananias argues.]So Ananias went and found Saul.Ananias laid his hands on Saul and said:[Jesus sent me, so you can get your sight back and be filled with the Holy Spirit.]Instantly, something like scales fell from Saul's eyes and he regained his sight.[All react.]Then Saul got up and was baptized.[Ananias baptizes Saul.]Saul stayed with the believers in Damascus a few days. And immediately he began preaching about Jesus in synagogues.[Saul makes speech, including stating Jesus is the Son of God.]All who heard him were amazed![Amazement.]Saul's preaching became more and more powerful. And even though Saul went from being the persecutor to being persecuted, he kept on telling everyone everywhere that Jesus was indeed the Messiah.[More testifying and witnessing. All bow.]Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Wheaton, Illinois 60189. All rights reserved.
Rotation.org Moderator reformatted this post to improve readability and to fix links.
This interactive story was created specially for our youngest students (preschool/kindergarten). We find that walking through the story with little activities helps them to remember the details much better - almost like having been in the story!
Kids will walk through the story of Saul's conversion as they complete a variety of simple activities together.
• Bible
• A small jingle bell that would fit into a child's closed hand
• Velcro marking tape
• Blindfolds
• 1 bottle of white glue
• Kinder Surprise Eggs - one for every student
Introduce yourself and learn the names of your students.
Explain to children that they are going to enter into the story of Saul on the road to Damascus! Has anyone ever gone into a real bible story together? In order to do so they must get on their IMAGINATION SUIT and then they must listen very carefully to each of your instructions.
Put on your "imagination suite" together as a class (a hat, shoes, glasses, jacket, etc) and then twirl quickly round and round and then sit down as you enter into the story together
Imagine through the story as follows:
Read the passage.
Explain that Saul was a man who didn't like Christians. He wanted to capture anyone who believed in Jesus and put them into jail! Is that a friendly thing to do?
Let's play a game of tag that helps us to imagine Saul capturing Christians.
Select one child to be Saul and have be "it" in the game of tag. Any child that is tagged will have to cooperate by going to "jail" (a pre-determined location in the classroom). When the whole class is in jail the game ends. You can play several times with different children pretending to be Saul.
Let's find out what happened next.
Read the passage.
Jesus didn't want Saul capturing or hurting anyone who believed so he stopped Saul on his journey with a bright light!
Let's walk on the road to Damascus together. Whenever you see the "bright light" turn on you have to fall to the ground!
Have the children walk around the room slowly. Turn the lights on and off - whenever a light is turned on everyone falls to the ground - when it turns back on they stand up and keep walking again.
Only Saul could see Jesus. Everyone travelling with Saul could hear Jesus but they couldn't see Him. What would that be like? Would it be weird if you could hear a sound but didn't know where it was coming from?
Play a listening game. Sit children in a circle. Have one child hide their eyes in the centre while you hand a small jingle bell to another child. Have all children in the circle close their hands into fists and shake them. The child in the middle needs to find out who has the bell by listening. They can't move around - they have to stay in the centre of the circle and then point to the person they think has the bell. Take turns until every student has had a turn guessing.
Saul was blind! I wonder what it would be like to be blind?!
Play a game to imagine what it would be like to be blind.
Using some velcro marking tape make a winding path on the carpet. Explain to kids that they will have to make it from one end to the other with a blindfold on.....thankfully they will have some help just like Saul did!
Divide children into pairs, one blindfolded and one not. Have the child without the blindfold lead the "blind" student through the path one pair at a time. Let each child take turns being blind and being the leader.
The Lord called a special helper named Ananias to go and visit Saul so that Saul could see again. Ananias listened to God and did as he said.
Let's play a game where you can be a special messenger.
Here's a twist on Follow the Leader or Simon Says - Have all the children line up along one wall while you as the leader stand at the opposite side of the classroom. Call one student at a time by name. That student must run to you. When they reach you, whisper a special message (such as jump up and down, touch your nose, clap your hands, spin in a circle, etc) in to their ear.
After hearing the message you can shout "(name of student)....go!" and the student must return to the class and demonstrate the action for the rest of the students to follow. Play until all of the kids have had at least one turn to "go" just like Ananias.
ACTS 9:17-19a
Smear a very small dab of white glue onto each child's pointer finger and tell them to hold their finger up in the air and wave it so that it dries.
Jesus sent Ananias to visit Saul so that he could see again. The Bible tells us that something like scales fell out of Saul's eyes so that he could see again. Maybe his eyes had been covered by something so he couldn't see and then the covering fell off!
Have the children peel the glue off of their fingers to imagine what the scales might have looked like.
Acts 9:19b-22
What did Saul do after he could see again? How was this different than the beginning of the story where he put Christians into jail?
What a wonderful surprise - Saul went from hating Christians to being a Christian!! He even told many other people all about Jesus. I bet a lot of Christians celebrated when this change happened, they were probably so excited that they didn't have to be scared of Saul anymore and even more amazed that Jesus' power was strong enough to change even a man like Saul.
Saul probably looked the same on the outside as he did at the beginning of the story but something on the inside had changed - his heart!
Let's have a snack that looks pretty ordinary on the outside but has a special surprise on the inside!
Hand out a Kinder Surprise Egg to each student!
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Fall 2007 Teacher's Workshop: "HEALTH & HEALING IN SOUTHEAST ASIA"
The teachers workshop took place with great success despite the storm weather on Saturday, December 1, 2007, with 18 enthusiastic teachers and other educators in attendance from Madison, LaCrosse, Milwaukee, and Verona! One of workshop themes was the potential SYNERGY that can occur when the University, K-12 schools and the Community work together effectively in mutually supportive problems.
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N'Gai Croal and I conclude our e-mail discussion about his departure from Newsweek with a conversation that covers 1) the widespread acceptance of flaws in games and 2) a very special pony. This is the final round of Vs. Mode...for now. Read More...
Posted 3/5/09 6:30 pm EST by Stephen Totilo in VS. Mode
N'Gai Croal and I conclude our e-mail discussion about his departure from Newsweek with a conversation that covers 1) the widespread acceptance of flaws in games and 2) a very special pony. This is the final round of Vs. Mode...for now. Read More...
Posted 3/4/09 6:30 pm EST by Stephen Totilo in VS. Mode
It's time for a very special edition of Vs. Mode, in which N'Gai Croal and I discuss and debate his move from games journalism to games sellout-dom (I mean, games development). "Resident Evil 5" joke incoming... Read More...
Posted 1/30/09 2:30 pm EST by Stephen Totilo in bioshock, fallout 3, New York Comicon 2009, VS. Mode
On February 6, game design legends Todd Howard (Bethesda, "Fallout 3") and Ken Levine (2K Boston, "BioShock") will join Newsweek's N'Gai Croal and MTV's Stephen Totilo for a New York Comic-Con panel we're calling Vs. Mode Live. Read More...
Posted 6/23/08 12:00 pm EST by Stephen Totilo in Grand Theft Auto IV, VS. Mode
N'Gai and I don't lie. We said a week ago that we'd conclude our grand debate about "Grand Theft Auto IV" by addressing some of your comments. N'Gai's picked three great comments from his blog. I've picked three great -- well, two great and one ridiculous one -- from mine. And we've each had our say on them.
Who made the cut? And how'd you readers push us in new and interesting directions? Read on. Just don't think we'd actually give you the very last word. That's not our style.
(As with all the other 'Vs. Modes' - spoilers abound.)
Posted 6/19/08 4:00 pm EST by Tracey John in Grand Theft Auto IV, Top Entries, VS. Mode
In the second round of Stephen Totilo's and N'Gai Croal's Vs. Mode, the pair continues to wage their war of words over "Grand Theft Auto IV."
Totilo explains why he liked "San Andreas" better for its player liberation; meanwhile, Croal responds by hailing how Rockstar has married emotion to gameplay in "GTA IV." Who do you agree with?
If you missed Part One, check it out here. As always, these exchanges are mirrored on Croal's Level Up blog.
(And beware -- spoilers abound.)
Posted 6/17/08 11:00 am EST by Stephen Totilo in Grand Theft Auto IV, VS. Mode
It's been a while since Newsweek's N'Gai Croal and I have disagreed as much as we have in the exchange you can read below. We're arguing about "Grand Theft Auto IV" for the first installment of an all-new Vs. Mode.
Whose side are you on?
Follow the debate below or on N'Gai's Level Up blog. Check back Thursday for Round Two. And, yes, there are plot spoilers below.
Posted 6/16/08 9:00 am EST by Stephen Totilo in Grand Theft Auto IV, Top Entries, VS. Mode
This entry comes courtesy of Newsweek's N'Gai Croal and kicks off a new round of the most interactive Vs. Mode yet
Whoever said that you can't improve perfection never met the staffs of Level Up and Multiplayer. For the newest installment of Vs. Mode, in which we spar over "Grand Theft Auto IV," we're doing something different. Because as much as we enjoy the clack-clack of our own deep thoughts being typed out for your edification, we like mixing it up in the comments with you, our Dear Readers, even more. So to help make Vs. Mode less dueling monologues and more of an open dialogue, here's how we're tweaking the formula.
Rather than just throw you into the deep end of mine and Stephen's opening exchange, we're kicking off this series with today's brief introductory post to both preview our debate of "Grand Theft Auto IV" and solicit some comments and questions from you. Then, on the final day of our debate, Stephen and I will not only engage each other, but we'll also tackle any statements or questions that you've posted on our respective blogs. Today's topic is "Who Moved My Sandbox?" in which we discuss whether "GTA IV" has gotten too far away from the series' sandbox roots. Some excerpts of what you'll see in full on Tuesday:
Stephen Totilo: This new "GTA" was made to be more sophisticated, more grown up, I think. It introduces moral choice. It skips rainbow afros and giant sex-toy weapons for a story that, initially, is a barely violent exploration of the eyes-just-shut start of the American dream. It's a more mature "GTA." Yet there's a guy at work here at MTV who is inconsolable over the exclusion of planes and tanks in "GTA IV." He wants to wreak mayhem. He sees a "GTA" as the sandbox it was once hyped to be. He wants unhinged "GTA."
N'Gai Croal: I want Rockstar to take the possibility space that is Liberty City and keep building on it. They can experiment with tone: one expansion pack could be primarily comic; another tragic; another brutal; another frothy. They can set one in the 1970s; another in 2020. I said that Rockstar is showing its maturity by realizing that it doesn't have to be all things to all gamers, but let me revise that statement: it doesn't have to be all things to all gamers at all times.
Based on these excerpts, who do you agree with?
Does "GTA IV" need a wilder, richer sandbox, or did Rockstar North get the balance right? Let us know what you think in the comments below. And check back tomorrow for Round 1 of Vs. Mode: GTA.
Posted 4/2/08 10:33 am EST by Stephen Totilo in Patapon, VS. Mode
I started debating the highly-regarded PSP game "Patapon" with Newsweek's N'Gai Croal early last week.
We thought we'd be done by now.
Today we are.
In our first exchange we both praised the game, but I went off on my feelings about gamer guilt and why so many games make me feel guilty for playing all or even just select parts of them.
In N'Gai's e-mail below he explains the the three types of video game imperfections, complains about the game's grind and suggests a few ways to "Patapon" better.
And then I defend grinding in games. Really, I do.
So when we last left off I asked N'Gai: "Do you ever feel any of that gamer guilt?" He answers below...
Posted 3/24/08 12:15 am EST by Stephen Totilo in Patapon, PSP, VS. Mode
Back for your Monday morning procrastinating is a new Vs. Mode, the monthly series of arguments between me and Newsweek's N'Gai Croal. This time, we tackle PSP rhythm-war game "Patapon."
Slight problem: we both really liked this game.
Never fear, however. I think we've got some stuff in here that will provoke you.
Did you say you want criticism of video games, something meaty, something that isn't just a graphics/audio/gameplay review. With Vs. Mode we try to give you that.
Here's a quote from my letter for everyone to chew on:
How many games do we not have to apologize for when recommending them to others? How often do we have to say not to mind the character design or the dialogue or the music or the controls or something else? How many did we in some way suffer? Is the high tolerance for imperfection not unique to gamers, at least to the extent we have to suck it up and try not to be bothered by the bad parts -- or, if you're like me, feel guilty that we spent time with things so full of bad parts?
What follows is Round One of Vs Mode: "Patapon"... (You can read it below or on N'Gai's "Level Up" blog. Round two follows late this week)
Posted 2/1/08 5:25 pm EST by Stephen Totilo in Burnout, LittleBigPlanet, Racing Games, Uncategorized, VS. Mode
N'Gai Croal and I have been trying to discuss "Burnout: Paradise" all week in this very special can't-stay-on-topic edition of Vs. Mode.
In Round One we did talk about the game: why I went from like to dislike to like for the game, and why N'Gai knew since the day he was born that "BP" would be awesome.
In Round Two we didn't talk about the game as much. I wound up explaining why I think "Paradise" is a better "Animal Crossing" than "Animal Crossing" and soon stopped talking about the game. But then N'Gai got us even further afield. He even proposed that this game points to some sort of nutty One Game Future.
Except that he didn't call it nutty. He left it for me to decide if it was, which I do at the top of today's concluding installment, Round Three. After my letter comes more Mr. Croal, who writes about the possibilities of a "World of Burnout" and a "Little Big Burnout."
Read on for the final letters. And soak in what may be the final drips of sanity we're going to ever pour into a Vs. Mode, given the direction these things are going in...
(These exchanges are mirrored on N'Gai's "Level Up" bog.)


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Celebrity Chef: The only thing better than having a Jacques Pépin restaurant on the Oceania Marina? Inviting the chef himself aboard. The May 12 Tuscan Artistry cruise, which sails between Barcelona and Rome, will feature the seasoned chef in a se...
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By Catesby Holmes
Hotels in Lhasa
Opened in December 2010, this is among the first of a handful of new hotels that are upping the ante on luxury on Tibet's windswept plateau (Shangri-La and InterContinental are on the horizon for 2012).
Things to do in Lhasa
For the best selection of artisanal crafts, head to this nonprofit shop selling everything from scarves made from soft yak hair to embroidered door curtains, said to protect you from both cold drafts and evil spirits.