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Passion and Prosperity – the Story of Small Business
Behind every small business, there's a story worth knowing.
All the corner shops in our town, the restaurants, cleaners, gyms, hair salons, hardware stores – these didn't come out of nowhere. In most cases, these enterprises were born because their owners are passionate. They're passionate about cutting hair or cooking food, and that is why they opened their business…not because they have an MBA.
Engage one of these small business owners in conversation, and you'll quickly find out that they are not only passionate about what they do, but they are passionate about their community and the role their business plays in strengthening our local economy, adding to our sense of unique place, and in giving back.
Passion definitely led Clare Isquith, Global Adventures in Travel, to her business. She never let the tectonic shift in the travel industry get in her way. Clare says she won't recommend what she doesn't know. For her, it isn't about what destination some distant headquarters is pushing this month, or quotas, but only about giving her clients the experience of their life. When you are dependent on word-of-mouth for new clients, your personal reputation is everything. Clare's success is founded in the passion she shares with her customers.
Small businesses are often part of family history, they are handed down generation to generation.
Tudy Longmire and her sister opened Sedona Fudge Company and a couple other businesses, desiring flexibility and income. Now, Tudy's niece is making candied apples, learning sourcing and burning the midnight oil. They see the Fudge Company's role on Main Street, their passion for their community and their sense of family pride as inseparable.
A passion for community is also in Kyle Jablow's DNA, his parent being his role models. Total Tech Team, Kyle's business, is the result of his passion for technology and bringing the benefits of technology to his customers and community. He credits the networking and relationships he's built in our small town, especially through the Chamber, with his success. Afterall, small businesses are one of the best ways to retain local talent and to elevate the depth and diversity of a community's resources and capacity.
Tina Nelson, Sedona Elite Properties Management, isn't just a small business owner, she's a job creator. Half of the people who work in this country work for small businesses, and two out of every three net new jobs come from small business. Having expanded from cleaning, advertising and renting homes by herself, to her current staff of 8 and over 30 vendors, Tina is passionate about the trust these people have placed in her for providing their livelihood. Her small business is a critical part of the engine for our economy.
Eric Moore, owner of Jay's Bird Barn, is a life-long bird-watcher. When he quit his full-time job and opened a tiny store, he wondered how he could differentiate his store from all the other places that sell bird seed? Then, he discovered, that what makes his special is that it's a knowledge-based business. Customers craved information and Eric and his staff could provide it. Their personalized assistance is a match to their client's passion. Local decision-making led Jay's Bird Barn to hire disabled adults to mix and bag their custom bird blends.
Jill Galea, owner of Sedona's New Day Spa, sees her business as giving clients the gift of pleasure and rejuvenation. But beyond that, Jill's social contract with her community is to give back whenever possible. It's a fact that small businesses give far more to charity than large businesses, and the decision to give is made locally, requiring no corporate process.
Again, small businesses don't just happen. And, their personal and community passion can't be calculated on a profit and loss statement.
There are so many wonderful, caring and passionate small businesses in Sedona. I've been lucky enough to get to know many of them and wish I could mention them ALL in this column. The flavor they add to our community, what they give to our citizens, visitors and non-profits, what they contribute in jobs, taxes and economic impact that affects daily lives, is irreplaceable by any out of town corporate entity.
So, the next time you have the choice between an online purchase vs. visiting a local small business, consider adding some passion in your life and Shop Locally.
–Kegn Moorcroft, Director of Communications


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Control Gostar Jahed invites you to visit it's booth at the 22nd International Oil, Gas, Refining & Petrochemical Exhibition. (Booth 2350 / Hall 21)
Under a new contract between Neyriz Cement Co. and a consortium formed by Control Gostar Jahed and Mohandesi Faragir Alborz Companies, all the civil and construction operations, installation of the mechanical and electrical equipment for the production line and the auxiliary buildings of the Neyriz cement factory has entered into the execution phase.
Telefax: +98 (21) 44098424-44098353-44007928
Copyright 2014 CGJ Electrical Control Instruments. All Rights Reserved.

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Much Ado About Nothing — Shakespeare
by William Shakespeare Freely adapted and updated from the Shakespeare Classic by J.D. Newman (Perfect for Colleges/Universities, High Schools and Middle Schools) The military war is over, but the "merry war" of love has just begun! Considered one of Shakespeare's most popular comedies, join Beatrice and Benedict, Hero and Claudio as they navigate through mine fields of words and jealous rivals to the safety of finding that one person with whom you truly belong. Drawing serious and frivolous into one realm, the show tells of nobleman Leonato, who shares his home with his daughter, Hero; niece, Beatrice; and elder brother, Antonio, as he welcomes friends home from the war. The play is set in 1945, just as WWII was coming to a close. A time in history where feminism had just experienced more progress than it ever had before. The...Read More
Land of Oz — The Play
Adapted by J.D. Newman From L. Frank Baum's classic novel (Perfect for Professional, College/University, Community, High School, Middle School, and other Youth Theatre Groups) The farmgirl Tip lives in the north of Oz with the scheming witch, Old Mombi. When the witch tries to turn her into a statue, Tip runs away with the help of the pumpkin-man and sawhorse she has brought to life. Tip helps the Scarecrow King escape from the Emerald City after it is conquered by the Army of Revolt. Can Tip find the lost Princess Ozma and bring peace to the Land of Oz? This 50-minute tour-de-force is an ideal school touring show for university and professional theatres. From the PREMIERE PLAY FILE PLAY DETAILS: 5 f, 3 m, 3 either gender, plus 2 puppets (can be doubled) TIP – short for "Tippetarius," a...Read More
The Cricket On The Hearth — Staged Radio Play
Adapted from the Charles Dickens story by R. Rex Stephenson & Jody D. Brown (For performance by any amateur, educational or professional theatre group.) Dickens' heartwarming Christmas tribute brings a genial spirit into the festivities as Mr. Tackleton, much like Ebeneezer Scrooge, is changed through the course of the story, into a better person. With great plot points of suspense, intrigue, and mistaken identity along the way, this brisk adaptation allows the audience/listener to wonder if it will turn out all right. Published in 1845, this story of love at Christmastime, the tale of John and Dot Peerybingle, Caleb and Bertha Plummer, May Fielding and––well, that would be spoiling it––has long been a popular 'sequel' to Dickens' holiday favorite, "A Christmas Carol," originally published in 1843. This show is a great alternative for those tired of seeing the endless...Read More
Elektra — an adaptation for modern audiences
adapted from Sophocles by Richard Sewell (Perfect for High School, College/University, Community, and Youth Theatre actors.) TYA The goal of this adaptation is to give actors (high school, college age, or older) a feel of the shape and mood of a Greek tragedy and yet to be a play that a modern audience, without preparation, can follow and be drawn into. The classic story of revenge-gone-on-too-long is faithfully and clearly presented, some may say as an appeal to reason–both political, familial, and personal–to stop the 'bloodshed'; for revenge may come in may guises. A challenging script to all ages both in the performance of it and in the viewing of it. Both the timeliness of the message, and its actual timelessness, point to a solid story of worth to everyone in the human experience. PLAY DETAILS 4m 2F +...Read More
The Scarlet Letter — a play
Adapted for the stage from Nathaniel Hawthorne's classic American novel by Jenifer Nii (For Professional, College/University, and Community theaters.) Evil, sin, nature, a scarlet letter, a punishing scaffold. Adulteress Hester Prynne must wear a scarlet A on her chest as a constant reminder of her shame. Her illegitimate daughter is truly the Pearl purchased at great price. Her lover remains unidentified and is wracked with guilt. Her husband seeks revenge. Highly theatrical, this play uses only four characters to completely capture the center of the story of inequality, prejudice, judgment. Nominated for the 2012 American Theatre Critics Association/Steinberg Award for Best New American Play Produced Outside New York. PLAY DETAILS 75 minutes 2f 2m Hester Prynne, late 20s. Wearer of the scarlet letter. Arthur Dimmesdale, perhaps a bit older than Hester. The town man of God. Roger Chillingworth, older than...Read More
A Midsummer Night's Dream — edited
by William Shakespeare Adapted by C. Michael Perry Shakespeare's delightful comic romp of highborn, lowborn, Faerie, Human, magic, common sense, and sheer hilarity has been edited to under 2 hours as well as including an original Elizabethan-type music score set to Shakespeare's lyrics. It is not a musical, any more that the original play was during Shakespeare's time — but it does have songs in it. Perfect for High School and College Theatre Departments, and Youth Theatre Groups. PLAY DETAILS 13M 8W + fairies, attendants Doubling possible 3 major locations — Court, Forest, Faerie Glen Playing time is about 1 hour and 50 minutes Order #3200 PERUSAL MATERIALS Perusal Pages File available MSND PERUSAL (The PDF file contains the first half of the play along with all background information.) EMAIL us for rights and information. Be sure to give us...Read More
Julius Caesar: A Confederate Conspiracy
by William Shakespeare Adapted by C. Michael Perry Shakespeare's tragedy of political intrigue set in the South of the American Civil War. The lines of the Bard have been edited, not rewritten. Think of the parallels between the South of the Confederacy and the falling Roman Empire–the upper-class driven government, the overwhelming slave issue, the unpopular yet popular military effort, the plots and ploys concerning political power. For these reasons the play has been set during the Civil War. No dialog has been changed to accommodate this, but the play has been shortened and edited for archaic language. One song, SHENANDOAH, has been inserted as sung by Lucius in the tent, accompanied by his guitar. Perfect for High School and College Theatre Departments, and Youth Theatre Groups. PLAY DETAILS 32M 9F + extras Doubling possible Six settings Playing...Read More
The Wind in the Willows — Short Musical
Book, Music and Lyrics by Meg Phillips Crespy Suitable for Professional, Amateur and Educational theatres for Children and Youth, TYA Written in melodrama style — in keeping with may of the theatricals of the period in which the original novel was written and the story set — the script encourages audience participation. It chronicles the adventures of Toad and his friends with a fast-moving storyline, lots of humor, and a nod to Kenneth Grahame's beautiful prose. Although the primary audience is children, the script also contains references for adults, in the vein of the old Rocky and Bullwinkle cartoons. PLAY DETAILS 1M, 4 actors of either gender. Several fluid settings. Running Time: 40 mins Order # 3195 Available! REVIEWS and COMMENTS: SOON PERUSAL MATERIALS Perusal Pages File available WITW PERUSAL (The PDF file contains the first half of...Read More
by Henrik Ibsen Adaptation and Lyrics by Lee G. Williams II Music by C. Michael Perry (For performance by College/University, Professional and Community groups) An Epic, Dialectical rendering of Henrik Ibsen's "The Wild Duck" – An Integrated Work of Art Once upon a time ago Lee G. Williams II, who loved all things Brechtian, began to re-imagine one of his favorite Ibsen plays as told by Bertolt Brecht. WILD DUCKS is that reinvention. Through symbolic realism truth is brought under the microscope, and illusion is pitted against reality. With interpolated original songs, slides of images reinforcing or contradicting the shifting moods of the piece, an old man played by a woman, and a familiar story, we have a new play for a new era. In this new version, the audience will come to realize, clearly, that there is more...Read More
Glorious Son of York — play
by Rex Stephenson For Professional, Amateur and Educational theatre groups playing for Family, Youth and Adult audiences. Richard returns after 400 plus years to answer charges he feels Shakespeare and other historians have made against him. He believes in his heart that Shakespeare maligned him, and if he can just explain his position he will have the place in history he rightfully deserves; But Richard doesn't find Shakespeare all bad: He is enchanted by the way Shakespeare portrays him as a seducer of women; by Shakespeare's unflattering portrayal of Elizabeth and Margaret; and most importantly Shakespeare's description of his death. PLAY DETAILS 1M 1W (+ 2 optional supporting roles that can be played by the actress) Simple Setting Great for Touring About 70 minutes Order #3157 REVIEWS and COMMENTS: SOON PERUSAL MATERIALS Perusal Pages File Available here:GloriousSonOfYork PERUSAL (The...Read More
The Doctor In Spite of Himself — Farce
by Moliere (Jean Baptiste Poquelin) Adapted & Translated by J.D. Newman (Perfect for Professional, College/University, Community, High School, Middle School, and other Youth Theatre Groups) The long-suffering wife of Sganarelle, a woodcutter and former doctor's assistant, decides to avenge herself for her husband's neglect and abuse. She convinces two servants who are seeking a physician that they must beat her brilliant but eccentric husband until he admits to being a doctor. When confronted by the servants, Sganarelle repeatedly denies any knowledge of medicine, but when they beat him, he decides to go along with their presumption. Sganarelle is brought by the servants to their master whose daughter has become mute. He makes an effective pretense of trying to cure the daughter, quoting Latin and doing what he has seen other doctors do. The lover of the master's daughter confides to...Read More
All's Well That Ends Well — Shakespeare-edited
by William Shakespeare Adapted and Edited by J.D. Newman (Perfect for Colleges/Universities, High Schools and Middle Schools) Following his father's death, Bertram, the young Count of Rossillion, leaves home to attend the court of the ailing King of France, along with his friend Parolles. Helena, the Countess's ward, is in love with Bertram, and reveals her affection to the Countess, who is sympathetic. She gives Helena permission to visit Paris in an attempt to cure the King of his ailment using a drug devised by Helena's father, a physician. Lafew, a lord at court, persuades the King to see Helena, and he is cured by her medicine. As a reward, she is offered a husband of her choice, and she chooses Bertram. He rejects her for her lack of social standing, but then accepts her rather than suffer the...Read More
The Political Tinker • The Holberg Acting Edition
by Ludvig Holberg Adapted and Translated by Jerry Argetsinger and Sven Rossel (For production by Professional, Amateur and Educational theatre groups.) The city council in Hamburg, Germany has been at odds with many of its citizens over several important issues. Herman von Bremen, a master pewterer, has established his own "political college" and is an outspoken voice against the local government. Two of the elected city officials discuss the ridiculousness of Bremen and his naive political notions and agree to play a joke on him. They convince him that the City Council has chosen him Mayor due to the ideas advocated by his notorious group. A series of comic situations demonstrate Bremen's inability to conduct himself appropriately either politically or socially as mayor. His frustration is increased by the mounting attention he must also give his daughter with her...Read More
The Christmas Party • The Holberg Acting Edition
by Ludvig Holberg Adapted by Jerry Argetsinger (For production by Professional, Amateur and Educational theatres.) Christmas parties were held after Christmas when the religious celebrations were over. They traditionally recalled the Heathen Days of Denmark and were notorious for their lack of restraint. Guests often came in costume and behaved with abandon. One of the things Holberg considered most ridiculous was the marrying of old men to young women. How could such a thing not result in affairs of the heart? It is Twelfth Night in the Jutland village of Aebletoft and the young wife, Leonora, is anticipating a raucous Christmas party where she can slip away with the handsome young Leander. She is devastated to learn that her pious old husband, Jeronimus, has declared there shall be no such party, the likes of which have been outlawed in...Read More
Erasmus Montanus • The Holberg Acting Edition
by Ludvig Holberg Adapted and Translated by Jerry Argetsinger & Sven Rossel (For production by Professional, Educational and Community theatre groups.) Holberg's literary masterpiece satirizing current university academic courses and outlining his own theory of university education. Rasmus Berg, who has taken as his name the Latin equivalent, Erasmus Montanus, is the epitome of the sophmore, or wise fool. He has learned his academic requirements but he has no idea of their use in real life. The play opens with his parents, Jeppe and Nille, anticipating with Deacon Per the recent graduate's coming home to his peasant farm near an outlying Danish village. Per convinces the couple that as a deacon he fully understands Latin, although his demonstrations reveal that he knows almost nothing and much of what he thinks he knows is incorrect. But his congregation respects him...Read More
Jean de France • The Holberg Acting Edition
by Ludvig Holberg Acting Edition by Jerry Argetsinger from the translation by Argetsinger & Sven Rossel (For production by Professional, Amateur and Educational theatre groups.) "Jean de France" is Ludvig Holberg's character comedy written as an homage to Moliere, following the trappings of Commedia dell Arte. Hans Frandsen is excited that his 20 year old son, Hans, is returning home from a three month sojourn to Paris, but his neighbor, and future in-law, Jeronimus is skeptical. Rumor has it that Hans has assimilated all too many aspects of pretentious French culture starting with his name, which he has changed to "Jean de France." When Jean enters, his attire, attitudes and language demonstrate that he has become obsessed with putting on French airs. The boy's fiancée, Elsebet is horrified by his behavior and has also fallen in love with an...Read More
Jeppe of the Hill • The Holberg Acting Edition
OR The Transformed Peasant by Ludvig Holberg Adapted and Translated by Jerry Argetsinger & Sven Rossel (For production by Professional, Amateur and Educational theatre groups.) Jeppe of the Hill is Holberg's most successful comedy, having remained active in the repertories of virtually all national Scandinavian and several Northern European theatres since 1722. It is also the most likely to be produced around the world. The character Jeppe Berg is considered the first fully developed Danish literary character and is considered one of the great comic character roles of all time. The supporting roles also offer great opportunity for comic genius. Jeppe is a Zealand peasant, a drunk, a ne'er-do-well who is beaten by his wife, oppressed by his Baron and cuckolded by the deacon. On his way to the village to buy soap for his wife, he finds his...Read More
Ulysses of Ithaca • The Holberg Acting Edition
by Ludvig Holberg Adapted and Translated by Jerry Argetsinger & Sven Rossel (For production by Professional, Amateur and Educational theatre groups.) Holberg gives Ulysses a witty, ironic servant named Kilian (a kind of a Sancho) who cuckolds Ulysses sixteen times. The protagonist is clearly a lap dog who is cleft in twain to satisfy the two possessive ladies who contest ownership. PLAY DETAILS: Order #3110 Available for production soon! Book now for future productions. PERUSAL COPIES The PERUSAL PAGES file for Ulysses of Ithaca will be available by clicking SOON The PDF file is the first act of the play and all other pertinent information about the play. EMAIL us for rights and information. Be sure to give us anticipated performance dates and the address of your group and, if different, your theatre. Please also include a contact name...Read More
Seigfried Idyll — A Play
by Thomas F. Rogers (For performance by Professional, Community, and College/University groups.) (suggested by the stories of "The Ring of The Neibelung") Beyond its depiction of sordid, mean spirited lives–a nevertheless needful 'value contrast,' as artists put it, shadow underscoring the light—the Nibelung legend forcefully portrays a redemptive aspect of human life. Siegfried's infatuation with Hilde (Brunhilde) has been, while whole souled, also blind, as we in fact often say 'love' is. He even kills for it. The one character who approaches Christlike self-renunciation in others' behalf is Gudrun, and, despite Siegfried's truly fallen state, he learns from her example. She is in a sense his savior—like Beatrice is Dante's and Margareta Faust's–and his own Liebestod is a necessary 'blood atonement' that emulates Gudrun's decency and virtue. It is this that makes the tale so significant in both German...Read More
Crime and Punishment — A New Play
Adapted and Translated by Thomas F. Rogers (Can be produced by Professional, College/University, Community and High School groups.) CRIME AND PUNISHMENT focuses on the mental anguish and moral dilemmas of Rodion Raskolnikov, an impoverished ex-student in St. Petersburg who formulates and executes a plan to kill an unscrupulous pawnbroker for her cash. He argues that with the pawnbroker's money he can perform good deeds to counterbalance the crime while ridding the world of a worthless vermin. He also commits the murder to test his own hypothesis that some people are naturally capable of such things and even have the right to so behave. Several times throughout the novel, Raskolnikov justifies his actions by comparing himself with Napoleon Bonaparte, believing that murder is permissible in pursuit of a higher purpose. Although not a playwright, Dostoevsky has been cited as having...Read More
Merry Christmas, George Bailey! — A Staged Radio Play
A Staged Radio Play by Shirlee H. Shields Based on the classic movie, "IT'S A WONDERFUL LIFE" (written by Francis Goodrich, Albert Hackett & Frank Capra) (For production by Professional, Amateur, Educational, College/University, High School groups) Adult and Family Audiences This version of the popular and familiar film story is a fully staged radio play set as if in a radio studio in the 1940s. The battle for Bedford Falls, New York, is on as George Bailey, hometown boy, combats the miserly Mr. Potter, with the help of his family, friends and an angel 2nd class named Clarence, with little help from Uncle Billy. All the familiar story elements are there but the charming setting in a radio studio give a special edge of performance charm. The perfect Christmas production for any theatre group. What a great hook-up with...Read More
Little Eyolf • A New Translation and Adaptation
by Henrik Ibsen Translated and Adapted by Eric Samuelsen (For Professional, College/University and Community Groups) Recommended for audiences aged 12 and older. This new translation of Ibsen's 1894 play emphasizes the terrible consequences of poor decisions, the power of strength built in a crucible of sorrow, and the singular importance of family unity. It delves deep into both family tragedy and almost fable-like elements of Norwegian folklore. The plot circles around the Allmer family, with father Alfred about to abandon his plans for a book in favor of raising son Eyolf, a crippled little boy whom few are sure might live a normal life. When the family opens its door to a mysterious Rat-Wife capable of lulling rodents into the sea, followed by an engineer who fancies daughter Asta, all manner of guilt, resentment and sorrow follow, but so...Read More
ghosts • a translation and adaptation
by Henrik Ibsen Adapted and Translated by Eric Samuelsen (For production by Professional Groups, College/University Groups, Community Groups, and High Schools) Mrs. Alving has spent her life meticulously creating the fantasy of a happy home and family and marriage, which explodes in revelations of sexually transmitted diseases, suicide and insanity. Quite possibly the most radical play in history. Mature themes and mild language are present in the play. DETAILS: 3M 2W Several Locations on an estate in a fjord in Western Norway Costumes from the 1890s About 2 hours ORDER #3032 PERUSAL MATERIALS The PERUSAL PAGES file is in PDF format and contains the first half of this play: Ghosts PERUSAL EMAIL us for rights and information. Be sure to give us anticipated performance dates and the address of your group and, if different, your theatre. Please also include...Read More
A Doll House • A New Translation and Adaptation
by Henrik Ibsen Adapted and Translated by Eric Samuelsen (For production by Professional Groups, College/University Groups, Community Groups) A DOLL HOUSE examines gender roles, social constraints and the power of secrets through the seemingly happy marriage of Nora and Torvald Helmer. The play is called A DOLL HOUSE instead of the traditional A DOLL'S HOUSE. It's a more accurate translation of the Norwegian title ET DUKKEHJEM. When we buy our kids a house for them to use to play with dolls, we call it 'a doll house' – Norwegian children play with 'a dukkehjem.' Nora is Torvald's doll, in a doll house, that is not her own. PLAY DETAILS: 3M 4F 1Teenboy 3 children Singe Interior Costumes from the late 1800s About 2 hours ORDER #3031 PERUSAL MATERIALS The PERUSAL PAGES file is in PDF format and contains the...Read More
The Idiot — An Adaptation
by Thomas F. Rogers Translated and adapted from the Dostoyevsky novel. (For production by Professional Groups, College/University Groups, Community Groups) How would the world react if the Savior of the World again suddenly appeared in the guise of just another mortal? The profound Russian writer Dostoevsky inserts such a character in each of his four major novels—in CRIME AND PUNISHMENT the prostitute Sonya Marmeladovama, in THE POSSESSED (or THE DEVILS the false Messiah Stavroginm and in THE BROTHERS KARAMAZOV the maligned but holy abbot Zosima and his righteous disciple Alesha. In all literature there are in fact very few memorable 'Christ figures.' Don Quixote may be one as well as another Russian author's protagonist, Boris Pasternak's Doctor Zhivago. In the opinion of this stage version's adaptor, the hero of THE IDIOT, Myshkin, is the most complete and impressive of...Read More
The Seagull — An Adaptation
Adapted and Translated by Thomas F. Rogers from the Chekhov original. (For production by Professional Groups, College/University Groups, Community Groups, High Schools) The first of Anton Chekhov's four major plays,* THE SEAGULL depicts the conflicting aspirations of writers and artists, old and young—the budding playwright Konstantin; his actress mother Irina; her philandering lover, the famous author Trigorin; and Konstantin's soulmate Nina, who yearns to be an actress like his mother but is callously dallied with by Trigorin. A seagull he happens to shoot symbolizes both Nina's failure and Konstantin's actual fate when, in despair, he takes his own life. THE SEAGULL is a slice-of-life drama set in the Russian countryside at the end of the 19th century. Its cast of characters are dissatisfied with their lives. Some desire love. Some desire success. Some hope to realize artistic genius. Some critics...Read More
The Passion Of Christ: Betrayal and Crucifixion • A Play
This Rollicking, Reverent, Religious Rendition Adapted from the Medieval Wakefield Cycle Plays by Rodger D. Sorensen. (For production by Professional Groups, College/University Groups, Community Groups, High Schools, Church Groups, Youth Theatres) Seven scenes take us from the Conspiracy through the Betrayal and to the Resurrection of Jesus Christ in poignant verse adapted for contemporary ears and minds from the original manuscripts of the Wakefield Cycle Plays. This play is free to Amateurs and to Educational Groups. However, application must be made and license granted before a production may be mounted. Professional Groups are asked to pay a small royalty. PLAY DETAILS: 15M 1W The set is a Pageant Wagon with props About 90 minutes ORDER # 3049 Available to ALL groups. PERUSAL MATERIALS The Perusal Pages File (in PDF format) can be read by clicking PassionOfChristPERUSAL It contains the first...Read More
A Christmas Carol • A Play
Adapted from the Dickens classic by Rodger Sorensen (For production by Professional Groups, College/University Groups, Community Groups, High Schools, Junior High Schools, Church Groups, Youth Theatres) The traditional story told in the most un-traditional way! In Rodger's uniquely and dramatically narrative voice the characters will jump to life for your audiences; and the meaning of the play, with such importance for today's audiences, will not be missed or forgotten. Dickens' characters were never so jolly, or important as they are in this special adaptation. PLAY DETAILS: Company of 10 M 11W 3B 2G Simple Settings with props About 100 minutes Order # 3051 Available for ALL producing groups. PERUSAL MATERIALS The Perusal Pages File (in PDF format) can be read by clicking ChristmasCarolPERUSAL It contains the first half of the script. PURCHASE REHEARSAL MATERIALS: (Any PDF purchased will be emailed...Read More
Comedy Of Errors — Free Script
(For production by Professional Groups, College/University Groups, Community Groups, High Schools, Middle Schools/Junior High Schools, Church Groups, Children's Theatres/Youth Theatres) The Classic Shakespearean Comedy about TWO sets of twins separated for years, without a knowledge of each other, who finally discover each other. Mayhem and hilarity ensue! This is an edited version for Educational use and can be downloaded below. All that we ask is that you cite Leicester Bay Theatricals in all programs as the 'publisher' of the free version. (See BILLING below) Do not distribute it yourselves. Send interested 'friends' to us to download the title. ComedyOfErrorsFREESCRIPT Please also, let us know how it went! We love to hear from our producers. EMAIL us about the success of your production! BILLING CREDITS The following is how the credits should read in all programs, posters, fliers, handbills and...Read More
Such Stuff As Dreams — A Musical Tempest
Suggested by Shakespeare's "The Tempest" Book and Lyrics by Neil K. Newell Music and Lyrics by C. Michael Perry (For production by Professional Groups, College/University Groups, Community Groups, High Schools, Church Groups, Youth Theatres) You thought you knew "The Tempest"? Well, get ready for this version. We start before Shakespeare begins. We see Propsero and Miranda arrive. We see Ariel deposit Sycorax and Caliban on the isle. We see Ariel impaled in the 'oak' and we see Propsero defeat Sycorax. We then see Sycorax come to life again through the intervention of Caliban and the strangers deposited on the island by Prospero's tempest. As in the original, goodness prevails but only after valuable lessons have been learned by all. This story now involves the conflict between Sycorax/Caliban and Prospero. It is no longer an epic but a taught, musical...Read More
Tom Brown's Schooldays — The Musical
First performed in London at the Cambridge Theatre in the early 1970s, this title is available nowhere else. It was then brought to the States in the mid-1980s by Bruce Hertford in a stunning production mounted at BYU. This is the story of Rugby School and Young Tom Brown as he faces the bully Flashman, befriends Ned East and learns the ways of manhood from Dr. Thomas Arnold — headmaster. A terrific score with witty lyrics combine with a literate script to bring these vivid and time tested characters to life! The original novel was the first of all the "British Public School" novels; all that followed, as good as they were, owe their inspiration to this seminal book. (Including "Goodbye, Mr. Chips: and the "Harry Potter" series.) PLAY DETAILS: Order #3011 PROMOTIONAL VIDEO This is a compilation about...Read More
The Jungle Book — A Play
Adapted by R. Rex Stephenson (TYA) (For production by Professional Groups, College/University Groups, Community Groups, High Schools, Middle Schools/Junior High Schools, Elementary Schools, Church Groups, Children's Theatres/Youth Theatres) The play is a masterly example of drama to entertain the whole family, while getting the audience hooked on the pleasures of digging into a classic book and participating in the storytelling process. Like Kipling's original two volumes of The Jungle Books, the play contains a collection of short stories and poems. The many generations of readers who have ranked Kipling's books among their favorite stories will appreciate Stephenson's fidelity to the original text. Scenes from the Mowgli stories are arranged in episodes that form a coherent account of Mowgli's young life. The fantasy of talking animals raising an abandoned man-cub makes this play particularly appealing to young children, while both...Read More
Frank'N Styne — The New Halloween Musical
BOOK and LYRICS by Larry Hillhouse MUSIC by C. Michael Perry (TYA) (For production by College/University Groups, Community Groups, High Schools, Middle Schools/Junior High Schools, Church Groups, Youth Theatres) A hilarious send-up of the Frankenstein story as the great grandson of the original comes to Castle Styne as heir to the mysteries of his predecessors. The score contains gems like the maids singing "Castles Are So Hard To Dust", the new monster sings "It's Alive" as he imitates Elvis, Egor sings about "Goin' Choppin'" as he prepares to shop for body parts, and the list goes on. It's perfect for Halloween. Franklin Kenneth Styne inherits an old castle from a distant relative (Frankie N. Styne). Upon arriving, he finds that he also inherited a Styne Castle staff, consisting of a hunchback experimenter who converses with a portrait, a cook,...Read More
Heidi — A New Musical
Book and Lyrics by Gayanne Ramsden Music and Lyrics by C. Michael Perry (TYA) (For production by Professional Groups, College/University Groups, Community Groups, High Schools, Middle Schools/Junior High Schools, Church Groups, Youth Theatres) A faithful telling of the classic story of the little girl and her Grandfather on the Alm. The focus of the musical is on how Heidi's life and ebullient spirit touches and changes each life she comes in contact with as she grows up and learns about God. Peter, Alm Uncle, The Grandmother, Klara Sesseman, Herr Sesseman, Grandmother Sesseman, the Servants — all are changed by their contact with Heidi. Even Miss Rottenmeier and the Professor are touched by her magic, but choose not to change. Heidi does not remain unchanged by her contact with those around her; she soaks up life and learns painful and...Read More
Great Expectations — A New Musical
Book, Music and Lyrics by Neil K. Newell & C. Michael Perry (For production by Professional Groups, College/University Groups, Community Groups, High Schools, Church Groups, Youth Theatres) On a wet and dreary day in 1858, Charles Dickens finds shelter from a storm in the home of one Phillip Pirrip. Intrigued by the unusual artifacts that decorate his home he entreats Phillip to tell him the story behind them. The 65 year-old Phillip begins telling the story of his childhood, when he was known as Pip, in what is soon to become Dickens' newest novel, "GREAT EXPECTATIONS." Considered one of Dickens' finest works, "GREAT EXPECTATIONS" is the coming of age story of the orphan Pip who falls in love with the unreachable Estella. In order to win her he desires to raise himself from a blacksmith's apprentice to a gentleman....Read More


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Rihanna definitely loves her tattoos as she just got a couple more inked on her skin. This time Rihanna inspired herself from the tattoos of the legendary rapper 2Pac, so check out Rihanna's latest addition to get tat collection!
Huge fan of tattoos and piercings,
Rihanna decided to add more body art to
her already generous collection. The world renowned singer just
tweeted a few pictures of herself getting inked at a tattoo parlor
and her choice for this time: a tribute tattoo. The Barbados-born
singer seems to have gone back to the basics of rap as she has
drawn inspiration from the legendary rapper 2Pac for her new
One of the tattoos that Rihanna has opted for has been 'winking' to her as she's been seen wearing it once before, back in 2011, only at the time it was drawn using pink Sharpie pen. The words 'THUG LIFE' that covered 2Pac's stomach inspired Rihanna as she inked the words on her knuckles in a pale pink colored ink.
Alongside the picture of her newly tatted knuckles, the diva
wrote to her fans the following:
"? All these b*@ches screaming that 2pac back ? #THUGLIFE"
However, the pictures reveal that Riri didn't only tattoo her knuckles but her back as well as she's seen laying face down on the tattoo artist's table holding what appears to be a bottle of beer and waiting for the tattoo artist to finish his work. The design or choice of words for her back tattoo has yet to be revealed, but the caption tweeted along with the picture states the following, which could hint that it's also related to the late rapper 2Pac:
"Tat my f&%kin name on u girl so I know its real!!! #MINE"
This is actually a verse from singer Drake's single Free Spirit, where he is referring to 2Pac's girlfriend Kidada Jones who had his tattoo on her arm.
Showing off her wild side, Rihanna also posted some photos of the time she spent at the tattoo parlor, with her tattoo artist, Mark Mahoney, and Machete actor Danny Trejo who revealed his tatted chest.
What do you think about Rihanna's new tattoo?
Photos courtesy of Rihanna Twitter


text: Jim Fulton wrote: > > > > > Actually, the DOM can be mapped into a language in a manner that does > > not follow directly from the IDL and CORBA specs. That's why there is a > > formally defined java binding rather than just a reference to the IDL > > specs. Historically, though, 4DOM was really a CORBA tool so it really > > needed to follow the specs. > > Whatever we do, there needs to be a document somewhere that > says what the Python DOM mapping is, even if it is not > much more than a reference to the DOM IDL and the Python > binding. In 4DOM, we are actually moving away from __getattr__ (for speed). We've found that we can keep all of the data cached in attributes for when it is needed. The draw back is that 4DOM will break horribly if people access out side of the DOM interface (or 4DOM supported pythonic interface) and there is a bit of runtime performance lose, however that is minor compared to the perfomace hit from __getattr__. The only reason we still support the '_'* is for legacy. Mike > > > I would vote for losing the leading underscore. > > :) > > > > This says to me that the DOM API specifies use of methods > > > for interface attributes. > > > > I think it is safe to say that a binding should not require a particular > > underlying data structure but Python allows the use of a.b syntax even > > when the surface structure is wildly different than the underlying data > > structure. I'm preaching to the choir as you are the world leader in > > abuse of the dot notation. :) > > Yup, however __getattr__ is a pain to utilize unless you have alot of > infrustructure. Zope has support for computed attributes, which makes > this pretty sane, especially for read-only attributes. I'm working on > a new version of StructuredText, StructuredText NG, > http://www.zope.org/Members/jim/StructuredTextWiki/StructuredTextNG, > which, among other things, creates objects with a DOM interface. > I want this to be independent of Zope, so I can't use any of the standard > Zope getattr tricks. > > In general, I think it would be cool of lots of > objects supported the DOM interface and I hate to make people > jump over the getattr barrier to do that. > > Jim > > -- > Jim Fulton mailto:firstname.lastname@example.com Python Powered! > Technical Director (888) 344-4332 http://www.python.org > Digital Creations http://www.digicool.com http://www.zope.org > > Under US Code Title 47, Sec.227(b)(1)(C), Sec.227(a)(2)(B) This email > address may not be added to any commercial mail list with out my > permission. Violation of my privacy with advertising or SPAM will > result in a suit for a MINIMUM of $500 damages/incident, $1500 for > repeats. > > _______________________________________________ > XML-SIG maillist - email@example.com > http://www.python.org/mailman/listinfo/xml-sig -- Mike Olson Principal Consultant firstname.lastname@example.com (303)583-9900 x 102 Fourthought, Inc. http://Fourthought.com Software-engineering, knowledge-management, XML, CORBA, Linux, Python


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One of the most exciting events happening at VIFF this year has to be the virtual reality experience that Catatonic has offered audience members throughout the festival. The short horror film Catatonic is an immersive journey through an insane asylum in which the audience, bound to a wheelchair, undergoes a sensory-shocking horror thrill ride. Participants are … Continue reading
Monthly Archives: September 2015
The People Have Spoken – Audience Opinion so Far at VIFF
Audiences are coming out in large numbers at VIFF and we're comment cards for the Roger's People's Choice Award are flooding in. Here are just some of the amazing responses we have been recieving about films at VIFF so far! Victoria (Germany | DIR: Sebastian Schipper) Ice and the Sky (France | DIR: Luc Jacquet) I am Nojoom, … Continue reading
Insider's Blog: Hidden Pasts, Digital Futures at VIFF
By Adam Cook In cinema's century-plus spanning lifetime, technological developments, evolutions, and changes have kept the medium on its toes. Always adapting in form, movies went from silent to sound, from short to long, from black and white to colour, from celluloid to digital—with countless smaller, but no less important changes in between. Each time … Continue reading
Spotlight on International Shorts #2: Love, Pain and the Whole Damn Thing
With such a variety of films to see over the course of the festival, one of many fun collections to see is the collection of international shorts. The second collection in this spotlight is the Love, Pain, and the Whole Damn Thing collection. This collection features a program of short films about love, from romantic to … Continue reading
Spotlight on International Shorts #1: Great Performances
With such a variety of films to see over the course of the festival, one of many fun collections to see is the collection of international shorts. One of these being the Great Performance collection. This program of shorts highlights stellar acting, and demonstrates how vital this is to the success of a film as a … Continue reading
Insider's Blog: Experimental Cinema at VIFF
By Adam Cook For the more daring and adventurous audiences, this year VIFF has a handful of cutting edge works of art from around the world that challenge our preconceptions of filmmaking, oftentimes expanding just what a movie can be. Here are some films that colour outside the lines: The Sky Trembles and the Earth … Continue reading


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Wayne Dalton Rolling Doors have a long history of excellence in the design and construction of doors that have met and often exceeded the needs and expectations of even the most critical projects. With numerous innovations created and experience acquired over the years, Wayne Dalton continues to lead all other manufacturers with both standard and custom-made doors from a variety of materials and colors to meet almost any need. So whether it's enormous Titan rolling doors, protective FireStar rolling steel fire doors, ventilated Secur-Vent doors, or secure Accordion-Folding Grilles, you can feel confident that with Wayne Dalton's many years of knowledge and experience, you will get the best possible solution for your building application needs.
Thermotite™ Insulated Rolling Doors Improve Thermal Efficiency
Polyurethane insulation, R-Value = 7.7
Standard Max Width 42'*
Standard Max Height 30'
Max Steel Gauge = 18
Steel, aluminum or stainless steel construction
Wind load 20 PSF standard; options up to 55 PSF
*Larger sizes may be available.
Polyurethane insulation, R-Value = 7.7
Standard Max Width 42'*
Standard Max Height 30'
Max Steel Gauge = 18
Steel, aluminum or stainless steel construction
Wind load 20 PSF standard; options up to 55 PSF
*Larger sizes may be available.
Rolling Doors To Meet Your Most Demanding And Rigorous Applications
Standard Max Width 40'
Standard Max Height 40'*
Steel, aluminum or stainless steel construction
Heavy-Duty 2 or 3" flat or curved slats
Wind load 20 PSF standard; options up to 55 PSF
*Larger sizes may be available.
Secur-Vent® perforated slats
Vision slat
Open fenestration slat
Over-sized Titan™ for large door application such as hangar door (up to 70' wide)
High Wind load
Articulating Windlocks for Operational Windload
Brush Seal for Curtain, Lintel Brush, and Hood Baffle
Manual Chain Hoist
Motor Operator
Bottom Bar Sensing Edges
Anti-Drop Devices (including Wayne Dalton's Proprietary DSD - Drop Stop Device, and Brake Devices)
Exhaust Ports
Sloping Bottom Bars
Optional powder coat finish
Pass Door
High Traffic Solution with Lasting Durability
Max. Standard Width: 20'
Max. Standard Height: 20'
Control Panel: Electronic VFD*
Controller with microprocessor
800 Curtain: 3" flat slats, powder coat (gray, beige, white)
22 ga. steel with alternating endlocks.
800C Curtain Pattern: 3" insulated flat slats (#34 profile), hardened powder coat (gray, beige, white) 22 ga. steel front / 24 ga. steel backer with alternating endlocks. R-value of 7.7; Sound Transmission Class rating of 22.
Flat insulated or non-insulated slat profile in a variety of gauges.
Vision/ventilation: 5"x3/4" open fenestration; 5"x3/4" acrylic vision lite.
Perimeter seals: surface guide weatherstrip, angled guide brush seal, exterior lintel weather seal, interior weather baffle, high usage guide weatherstrip (do not select if wind load is required).
Wind load: minimum of +/- 20 psf up to +/- 55 psf; options available to meet up to Dade County – Florida Building Commission High Velocity Hurricane Zone.
Custom color options.
Actuators: Loop detectors, radio control, push buttons, motion detectors and pull cords.


text:
Assumption Regional School principal Mary Ellen Schurtz, who retired on June 29, 2017, died July 17 after a battle with cancer. The South Jersey Catholic Schools community extends prayers and condolences to her mother Eleanor Roken; husband Tom; children Thomas Jr. (Rannette), Kathleen, Robert (Jamie), and Stephen (Julianne); grandchildren Samantha, Summer and Saylor; and to her siblings.
"Mary Ellen was a dedicated, inspirational educator," said Catholic Schools Superintendent Mary Boyle. "She was determined to finish her work here, the ultimate 'good and faithful servant.'"
A scholarship fund has been established in Mary Ellen Schurtz' name. For more information and to donate, go to https://arcsgalloway.org/schurtz-scholarship/


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DSV and Panalpina - achieving more together - see more at dsv.com
Panalpina is the only multinational provider of supply chain solutions to achieve global certification to OHSAS 18001, ISO 9001 and ISO 14001.
OHSAS 18001, short for Occupational Health and Safety Assessment Series, is the standard against which organizations are assessed on their Health and Safety performance. As with other standards, it is based on the setting of objectives and targets, and the monitoring of the business performance against these objectives.
is the internationally recognized standard for quality management. It provides a tried and tested framework and systematic approach to managing a company's processes to ensure its products and services satisfy customer expectations.
is an internationally accepted standard for implementing an effective Environmental Management System (EMS). It requires organizsations to identify and assess environmental facets and take necessary control to reduce environmental impacts.


text: Some time ago, Walter Benjamin and Asja Lacis used the term "porosity" with reference to Naples? urban characteristics ? spaces merging into each other and providing the backdrop for the unforeseen ? improvisation as a way of life. Today, the term "porosity" in this context is increasingly used conceptually. Well-known authors from the worlds of architecture, town planning, and landscape design embark on a search for new concepts for a life-enhancing, user-friendly city ? with reference to this enigmatic term. The term refers to the overlaying and interweaving of spaces and structures, to urban textures and their architectural properties and qualities ? to cities with radically mixed urban functions.


text:
Omega Contracts manufacture, supply and install kitchens for developers and house builders. Our product portfolio offers extensive choice that's flexible to suit your project needs, and is backed up by industry leading service.
Are you a private property developer or house builder looking for UK kitchen suppliers? With a full turnkey service available, you can trust Omega Contracts as your preferred partner for quality fitted kitchens.
We have the design expertise and craftsmanship to offer an extensive range of styles, materials, fittings and unit configurations. Our Very British Collection, which includes our Mackintosh and Sheraton brands, gives you all the inspiration and flexibility you'll ever need.
We're proud to be one of Britain's fastest growing suppliers of premium quality kitchens to the housebuilding market. Established in 1992, we've enjoyed continued growth and now have an annual turnover in excess of £50m.
Omega Contracts is 'Brexit Ready'
As the outcome of Brexit is fast approaching, many housing developers feel overwhelmed with information. Uncertainty exists as to how the changing economic environment is going to affect them and their business, especially when it comes down to their supply line. You might find yourself in a similar position, worried that the effects of Brexit will result in kitchen orders being delayed, which will in tum have an adverse effect on the completion times you have promised.
Omega has been planning meticulously to ensure the effects of Brexit to their clients are as minimal as possible and their recent investment is a testament to that.
George Clarke - Company Ambassador
At Omega Contracts we're delighted to be working with George Clarke, an accomplished and passionate architect and Creative Director of the architectural practice, George Clarke + Partners. He's also a writer, lecturer and TV presenter of several very successful TV series, including Channel 4's Restoration Man, George Clarke's Amazing Spaces and George Clarke's Old House, New Home. As well as his TV career, George works across a number of architectural projects, giving him real hands-on experience.
We work closely with George to gain a broader understanding of the needs and expectations of architects, property developers and, just as importantly, consumers. We also draw on his in-depth knowledge of design and current trends to accurately forecast the future needs of the property market.
"I'm delighted to be working with Omega Contracts, a company that shares my passion for good design, high professional standards and service, reinforced by great British craftsmanship."
George Clarke - Architect, Writer, Lecturer and TV Presenter


text:
GLOBAL MARKETS-Asia stocks supported; falling dollar a burden for Nikkei
Asian markets could take heart on Monday after Wall Street managed to look past more soft US data, though Japanese stocks will be pressured by a stronger yen as the dollar loses altitude.
Turnover is likely to be thinned with US markets closed for Presidents' Day, but Australian shares set the early tone with a rise of 0.4 percent. MSCI's broadest index of Asia-Pacific shares outside Japan added 0.2 percent, having bounced 5 percent in seven sessions.
The Nikkei may not fare as well since the dollar had slipped under 102 yen to hover at 101.74 on Monday. A stronger yen is viewed as negative for Japanese exports and corporate profits, and often prompts knee-jerk selling in shares.
In contrast, a lower dollar tends to be positive for commodities priced in that currency, helping lift gold to near a three-month peak at $1,319.89.
The main data on Monday will be Japan's gross domestic product (GDP) report, which is forecast to show annualised growth of 2.8 percent for the fourth quarter.
On Wall Street, the Dow ended Friday up 0.79 percent, while the S&P 500 gained 0.48 percent. The MSCI global stock index climbed 0.5 percent on Friday, bringing its gains to 5 percent in eight sessions.
The gains came despite a disappointing reading on US industrial output, with markets seemingly content to put much of the weakness down to bad weather.
For equity investors, the run of soft figures recently has a silver lining in that it lessens the risk of the Federal Reserve speeding up its tapering plans, while keeping any hike in rates a very distant prospect.
"The Fed expects to continue tapering, but will be patient when it comes to raising rates," said Michael Gapen, an economist at Barclays.
He noted the Bank of England had signalled similar patience with its policy, while the European Central Bank and the Bank of Japan were under pressure to ease yet further.
"With two major central banks likely to ease further in coming months, and the other two likely to wait before removing accommodation, the recent improvement in global sentiment should persist," said Gapen.
The BOJ's starts a two-day policy meeting on Monday. While no move is expected, there is much speculation it will eventually act to support the economy once an increase in the sales tax goes through in April.
There was better news on China as data showed banks there disbursed the most loans in any month in four years in January, a surge that suggests the world's second-biggest economy may not be cooling as much as some fear.
Chinese banks made 1.32 trillion yuan ($218 billion) worth of new yuan loans in January, beating a 1.1 trillion yuan forecast and nearly three times December's level.
It is usual for loans to spike in January, when banks try to lend as much as they can to grab market share, but last month's surge was still the largest since January 2010.
The next hurdle will be HSBC's flash PMI survey of manufacturers for February later this week, given January's disappointing result sent ripples through global markets.
The same day has a rash of flash PMIs for Europe and the United States, along with US inflation data.
Finance ministers and central bankers from the Group of 20 also start their meeting in Sydney on Thursday. Events run through to Sunday, when European Central Bank President Mario Draghi, among others, gives a news conference.
Minutes of the February policy meeting of the Federal Reserve are due on Wednesday but are not expected to differ greatly from the steady outlook offered by Fed Chair Janet Yellen last week.
Yellen still has to appear before the Senate after her testimony was postponed due to bad weather, but no firm day has been set as yet.
Category: FinanceAsia


text: In certain instances, bankruptcy can stop foreclosure and give you an opportunity to keep your home. If you have missed a few mortgage payments but aren't in foreclosure yet, you can try to work things out with the lender. It's often cheaper and easier for lenders to reach an agreement with the homeowner. Usually, you will need to pay extra for a few months to make up for the missed payments. However, if you have already received a notice of foreclosure, bankruptcy is a possible solution.


text:
Seven El Camino High School students and a bus driver were injured Wednesday when a car collided with a school bus, sending the bus out of control and toppling onto its side, authorities said.
One student was airlifted to a hospital as a precaution. The rest were taken by ambulance to two hospitals for treatment of minor injuries.
"There were a lot of minor bumps and bruises and scrapes, possibly a broken bone," said Steve Lombard, a spokesman with the Oceanside Unified School District.
The accident occurred about 11:20 a.m. on North El Camino Real at North Douglas Drive.
Oceanside police Sgt. Jeff Brandt said it appeared that a white Toyota Corolla had pulled onto El Camino Real from the Laguna Vista mobile home park, and the 81-year-old driver was traveling parallel with the northbound bus in a turn lane when she merged into the vehicle, catching the left rear wheel of the bus.
"It looks like that person merged right under the bus, which sent the bus out of control," Brandt said. "A set of wheels went right over the top of the car. You can see the tire tread marks up over the hood of the car."
The driver, identified as Betty Hoke, said that she didn't even see the bus. "I never saw that thing. It was right up on me like that," Hoke said. "This is a very dangerous spot. I'm always very cautious here."
She made her comments to KGTV/Channel 10, a media partner of The San Diego Union-Tribune.
Federal transportation officials say an average of 142 people die in school transportation-related crashes each year. Occupants of school vehicles account for about 8 percent of the deaths, according to a 2008 study by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
"As a district, we are very grateful that these kids only suffered minor injuries," Lombard said. "A situation like that, you never know how difficult it could turn out. We are very grateful that there were no major injuries."
He said the 23 students on the bus were participating in a cross-age tutoring program.
"We transport them from the high school to some of our local elementary schools for one class period or so, to help tutor the kids in math and reading," Lombard said.
He said the bus was on its way from San Luis Rey Elementary School, heading to Reynolds Elementary School to pick up some students who had been tutoring there, when it was hit.
The students who were not injured in the accident were taken back to school. The bus driver was identified as Karen Sohayda, 47, the California Highway Patrol said.
In San Diego last fall, a school bus with no children on board struck a house in Emerald Hills. Authorities said the driver may have had a seizure about the time of the accident.
In 2007, a school bus was broadsided by a speeding driver in Vista, resulting in minor injuries to four people, including two elementary students.


text:
Wednesday, August 31, 2005
If They Knew What's Going On In Her Life...There Would Be A Documentary On Radio Four
Something is going wrong.
I don't understand what it is.
Maybe the 'month of healthy living' has taken it's toll?
Maybe all that fruit, water, exercise and abstinence from alcohol was a bad idea?
I should've lost pounds & pounds (I lost two, two measly pounds, where's the justice in that?)
I should be full of energy & vitality (I'm weary, too tired to switch the computer on in the evenings, how can that be?)
Where I should be bursting with joie de vivre, I'm mopey and lacklustre.
I spend the day getting on with my job in a diligent and productive manner. I can't remember the last time I was subversive. It's not right.
Day after tomorrow I'm off on holiday. It's worrying to think I may have forgotten how to have fun.
Crumb by Crumb - Rufus Wainwright
Careless - Cinerama
Blues Run The Game - Simon & Garfunkel
Guiding Star - Teenage Fanclub
One Of These Things First - Nick Drake
Riptide - Laura Veirs
The Storm Is Coming - Ed Harcourt
Beautiful - Belle & Sebastian
Tuesday, August 23, 2005
SmellyColleague's imminent return has been a cloud on the horizon.
He was expected back next week and, surely, six weeks is more than generous for a Basic Skills in Personal Hygiene course.
Anyway, my sources now tell me (O.K. I was eavesdropping, how else are we ever going to get to know anything?) he won't be back.
Not next week, or the week after that.
Perhaps he's been approved for Level I Laundry ?
The New - Interpol
Enemies/Friends - Hope Of The States
Rebellion (Lies) – Arcade Fire
It's A Hit – Rilo Kiley
Love Me Like You – The Magic Numbers
Mr Brightside – The Killers
The Boys Are Back In Town – Thin Lizzy
Seven Nation Army - The White Stripes
Labels: work
Friday, August 19, 2005
Robert Robinson Returns!!!
Are You Happy What You're Doing?
I rock!!!
Against all odds and in the face of overwhelming adversity (or by just getting on and doing my job, whichever version you prefer) I have made someone £2,000 better off than they were yesterday.
I rule!!!
(and rock)
The day (like Grandad) goes from strength to strength as I am "very helpful" to a man going into battle with cowboy plumbers, and even able to find time to be sensitive to a depressed, near hysterical woman who has a youth offending worker, panic attacks and a runaway daughter to cope with (though I forget why she called). I also say "extrapolate"and "scrutiny" in appropriate circumstances (not to the near hysterical woman).
Truly a memorable day.
They must be putting something in the water.
Music When The Lights Go Out - The Libertines
Cayman Islands - Kings Of Convenience
Slow Moves - Jose Gonzales
Let Love Not Weight Me Down - Ed Harcourt
Ain't No Sunshine - Bill Withers
Things We Said Today - The Beatles
Somebody Loves You - Eels
The Group Who Couldn't Say - Granddady
Labels: work
Wednesday, August 17, 2005
What a fabulous morning. The sort of morning that almost tempts me to skive off.
The sky is blue, the train is on time, the music is good and, best of all, I'm not tired.
Even PrissyConductor can't wind me up this morning.
Oh, and, last night, did Kirstie Allsopp really say: "This is balls. This is all balls."
Less Than Zero - Elvis Costello
Leave The Biker - Fountains Of Wayne
On Top - The Killers
Dylan In The Movies - Belle & Sebastian
Goodbye Girl - Squeeze
Feeling Oblivion - Turin Brakes
Desire As - Prefab Sprout
Crimes Of Paris - Elvis Costello
Tuesday, August 16, 2005
Spend the journey trying to avoid JenniferGarnerLookalike's bosom.
Tricky business seeing how she's folded up on the seat opposite me, all legs and cleavage.
Is it rude to stare? (And where can I get a bra like that? )
And if I don't stare at her I end up staring at SexyEyes, and he fancies himself quite enough already.
Solve the problem. Doze off.
Talking In The Dark - Elvis Costello
The Problem - Lambchop
Hedonist - House Of Love
Streetlights - Josh Rouse
Home Counties Boy - Martin Newell
Burning Flies - Looper
Snow Camping - Laura Veirs
Heaven - Robyn Hitchcock
Friday, August 12, 2005
"The Day Ended As It Began..."
17.12 Cancelled
There were lots of people trying to head off towards the cricket this morning. They seemed hopelessly over-excited considering it's cricket. I would've predicted tears before bedtime, but those-who-know tell me they will have had a good day.
'Cricket' 'good day'?
No - Fails to compute.
NewNeighbour has a wolf. It appears to be very placid.
Life Of Surprises - Prefab Sprout
What Difference Does It Make? - The Smiths
Do You Realize? - Flaming Lips
Open - The Cure
Ten Feet Tall - XTC
Bloodless - Tom McRae
I'd Rather Dance...- Kings Of Convenience
The Medication Is Wearing Off - Eels
The Universal - Blur
Monday, August 08, 2005
I've just been to physio.
Didn't have to wait five months after all. When I told the nice lady on the phone that the OtherHospital had said I would, she laughed in a "How silly would that be? You'd be all better on your own by then, wouldn't you?" kind of way. Anyway, I've been wrapped in hot wax and painfully manipulated by someone who seemed to know what they were doing.
And I'm going back for more next week.
It seems I should get 90% mobility back.
I was disappointed by this until TheYoungerBoy pointed out that I probably never used more than 63% of my mobility anyway. He had a point.
Spent the weekend hoping I didn't do or say anything to embarrass Perfect in front of his friends on Friday.
(I'm really, really sorry - I managed to avoid stating the obvious to VeryTallFriend right up until the final moments, but I just couldn't hold it in)
The World Awake - Prefab Sprout
Strangeways Inside - Mull Historical Society
Boat - Astrid
The Man In The Iron Mask - Billy Bragg
Black Star - Radiohead
Black Amnesias - Hope Of The States
Close To Me - The Cure
It's Wasting Me Away - Electric Soft Parade
Labels: real life
Tuesday, August 02, 2005
Phew! Last night I dreamt nothing more disturbing than that I was taking Thursday off.
(I'm not)
It's very very hot on the train and, incredibly, someone smells really nice. Can't pin down exactly who, but I don't think it's a regular.
Excitingly, a Jennifer Garner lookalike gets on at PoshStation. Though when she stops pouting and starts whining into her mobile the illusion is shattered.
Fever - Starsailor
Hackensack - Fountains Of Wayne
Stranger By The Minute - Porcupine Tree
Avalon - Sigur Ros
Electioneering - Radiohead
Cemetry Gates - The Smiths
Jonathan David - Belle & Sebastian
Jesusland - Ben Folds
Labels: train
Monday, August 01, 2005
But at least I got in in time to overhear this, from WalkingMedicalEncyclopedia:
"It was a good wedding, one of the guests actually had a heart attack"
Over the last two nights I've woken up from a variety of dreams, soaked in sweat for all the wrong reasons, feeling panic, despair, anxiety and desolation.
What's going on?
Wooden Nickels - Eels
Mine - Everything But The Girl
The Myth Of Trust - Billy Bragg
Perfect - the Lightening Seeds
Wish 'em All Away - Embrace
Under Control - The Strokes
A Fond farewell - Elliott Smith
Aint That Enough - Teenage Fanclub
Tie Me Up - Cinerama
The Real Thing - Grand Drive
Fly - The Jam
Blackbird - The Beatles
Home - Stephen Duffy
Postcards From The Beach - Ballboy


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USA-Made 4-Inch Fireplace Smoke Guard
Expected Ship:12/14/2019
Keep your fireplace smoke free with the Fireplace Smoke Guard. Most fireplaces smoke because the mouth of the hearth is too high. SmokeGuard in effect lowers the fireplace opening to hold in smoke and easily correct the problem. Installation is easy, thanks to the adjustable spring-loaded mechanism. Heat-resistant adhesive caulk is included to create a tight seal once in place. Made in USA.
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This is the third and last part of my series of reviews of Terry Pratchett's Discworld novels. The first two parts can be found here and here.
If you read the previous two parts of this work, you might have noticed that I never gave a book full marks (=5 stars). That was because Terry Pratchett is an author who, unlike most, constantly improved with time. He is just the opposite of a "one hit wonder", or, as Thomas Aquinas put it more elegantly (in Latin), a homo unius libri. And therefore the best of the Discworld novels appeared late into the series, and therefore in the last part of the reviews. Here you will find several books having 5, 4.5 and 4 stars.
Finally I also wanted to place a little unimportant complaint about a point in which I am somewhat of a stickler. In some places where Pratchett cited written materials that were meant to sound quaint, like old laws, royal proclamations or letters, he sometimes underlined this by the use of an old typographic variant, called the "long s". Now there exiſt very preciſe rules about the uſage of this letter variant, where it will ſtand, and where there will appear the uſual "s". It ſeems Pratchett did not know thoſe rules; his uſage of "ſ" is very arbitrary, including miſsing every alternate one completely.
Furthermore his typeſetters apparently did not have the glyph in the typefaces they were uſing, ſo they replaced it by an italic "f", which looks kind of fimilar but, as you can fee, is flanted unlike the other letters and looks juft plain wrong.
The Last Continent
After a long time Pratchett once again wrote a novel with Rincewind in its center. In consequence this book is limited plotwise, because there's only one thing Rincewind is capable of doing in a book, which is running away and trying to survive. This time he does it on the continent XXXX (or Fourecks) which is one huge spoof of Australia, and so is the book. You name any sterotype about Down Under—it's there. If that is your idea of a perfect Discworld novel, have fun!
In addition there is a subplot involving the wizards of the faculty being stranded on an island run by the god of evolution. If you think that makes no sense, well, it doesn't. I'm not even sure what the author wished to say with it or who (if any) he wanted to lampoon with it.
The faculty wizards are very good characters, but the repeated scenes of them being uncomfortable in the presence of women, and particularly their head housekeeper, Mrs. Whitlow, make me cringe or yawn, depending on my mood.
On the whole, compared to what Pratchett is capable of, the Last Continent is a stupid book, but most of the blame goes to Rincewind, who Pratchett freely admitted to not liking as a character for reasons apparent. It seems though that a portion of his fans demanded another Rincewind book so much he finally gave in and wrote it, and this is it.
Carpe Jugulum
This book is more or less a retake of Lords and Ladies. The kingdom of Lancre is took over by monsters who enchant people and the witches fight them. Only this times it's vampires instead of elves. I am under the impression that Pratchett wanted to write a very dark book, but somehow it did not work completely. He tried too hard, by giving us conversations between a spiritually troubled priest and Granny Weatherwax, with insights in the latter's inner life (it's a dark abyss). Sometimes it strongly feels like the author himself ranting (less subtle than in Small Gods too).
All in all it is the combination: Terrifying villains who are still silly caricatures in a country of silly caricatures, a regurgiated plot and as much darkness as the pen would yield. In short, a failed book.
The Fifth Elephant
It is almost miraculous how Pratchett managed, after the lousy Carpe Jugulum, to write one of the best books of the entire Discworld series. Indeed it is. The Fifth Elephant has Samuel Vimes in the dark vampire-and-werewolf country of Überwald for the occasion of the new dwarven "Low King". And, as Pratchett likes to say, where there's policemen, there's crime. In this case it is political intrigue and conspiracy which threatens to throw dwarf society into a civil war. But that's not the important point of the book. The important point is that it manages to paint a fascinating in-depth portrait of Discworld dwarf cultures, after so many books of them having been the usual beard-and-pickaxe cardboard cutout characters. It is a thing which Tolkien never quite managed to do (with the Dwarves, that is). And it has Sam Vimes, who is a gift of a character, and always fun to read. The ending throws a bit of a damning light on the hero, but we're not in Hollywood after all and it's no different from the things John McClane does.
Another thing worth noting is that this book is the first one to mention an invention called the "clacks", which is a semaphore tower network that is the Discworld equivalent of the telegraph. I consider it a remarkable thing by Pratchett to not only be aware of this historical concept but also bring it to the books. In fact they popped up fully-developed in The Fifth Elephant so that for a moment I wondered if I had maybe missed a book where they were introduced as part of the story, but there is no such thing. However, the clacks line plays a significant part in a later book, Going Postal.
The Truth
This is about the invention of the printing press and the Discworld's first newspaper, the Ankh-Morpork Times. Its hero is William de Worde, a disinherited son of a noble and ruthless family, who is clearly not Pratchett's best character, but still a good one.
Compared to the novels that came directly before it and later, The Truth is a light and humorous book, but as far as those go, it's one of the very best. It also has a second plot which connects to main one, concerning yet another cabal to depose Lord Vetinari, the city's ruler. This time the task is in the hands of two hitmen called Mr. Pin and Mr. Tulip, who are modeled after any pair of whimsical movie thugs wearing dark suits and calling each other "Mister …". There are lots of them around, though these days it probably is Tarantino's characters who come to the mind quickest. Anyway these too are silly, sometimes way too silly, but for all that they are still fun to read. I think that remarkable, because usually things like that put me off. It seems to prove it was done skillfully.
Thief of Time
I read this book twice some years ago and can't remember it too well, which is always a bad sign. One of its main characters is Lu-Tze, sweeper and operative of the secretive Time Monks (much like time travel police and historians in one) and, in my mind one of the main weaknesses of the book as well. It is clear that Pratchett wanted to take the common notion of a wise Dalai-Lama type Buddhist monk and put as many twists on him as possible. Too many, in fact. The result is a character that I feel makes little sense. At least I can't understand him at all. This character had appeared before and has since, but always in a minor role, which made him alright, but here he is on too many pages altogether.
The plot is a muddle of clocks, time travel, doppelgängers, and the five riders of the Apocalypse (Death, war, famine, pestilence and Ronnie). I did not think it was very gripping. The villains are (as in Reaper Man and Hogfather) the so-called "Auditors of Reality" who are, by intention, incredibly boring creatures. The downside is that the are also incredibly boring to read about.
Night Watch
Believe it or not, this book is actually a Discworld time travel story, and it is excellent.
Now I am sure we have all seen Back to the Future and its sequels and some of the many Star Trek treatments of the theme, in the movies and the series. It boils down to similar things all the time. For some reason almost all time travel stories (except the famous early example, the seminal Time Machine by H.G. Wells) deal with travels into the past. I am sure there are narrative reasons for that, which I won't go into in this place. However, the defining element of travels into the past is the problem of causality, or, to put it more clearly, the so-called grandfather paradox. I don't think I have to explain to you what that is. You have seen the movies.
And as this seems to happen in almost every time travel movie, it has become stale and boring, even annoying by now. So I was surprised and relieved to see that Pratchett let us off the hook in this respect.
The book's plot is about how Sam Vimes, while in pursuit of a psychopathic serial killer, is magically flung back into the past—into the time of his own youth. And despite that fact I am happy to tell you that there is never a question of somebody killing his grandfather or dating his mother etc. etc., except for one very brief uncomfortable allusion (which is a red herring, in fact).
Despite the fact that Vimes' appearance in the past changes history, and he also tries hard to do just that (in his characteristic way he just has to do the job that's in front of him), it is made clear quite early that it won't matter in due course. Though Vimes manages to change some little bits, on the whole history just runs over him like a steamroller. It's what I term the Asimov model of history, and there's much to be said in favor of it, which I will reserve for a seperate article. In fact, Vimes's only objective is to make sure his own younger self (a night watch rookie) gets a few valuable lessons, which he got in the unaltered timeline.
So if Night Watch is not really about time travel paradoxes, what is it about?
It is about a popular revolution that ultimately came to nothing. It is about decent and not-so-decent cops under a tyrannical régime. It is about secret police and torture. It is about politics and betrayal and intrigue and people who just try to make it through all of it alive. It is dark. It is to Discword what Frank Miller's The Dark Knight Returns was to Batman. It was the old stuff, but grittier and grimier and just so much more vital and real. It was entrancing.
In fact, it could have easily been written as a "prequel" like Small Gods, but the time travel stunt enabled Pratchett to use his best character, Sam Vimes, with the added twist of Vimes teaching himself and I think it paid off.
For a change I will complain about some German translation goofs that are not in the book's title. The first occured in a scene where young Vetinari says about the head assassin, Doctor Follett, "They say he can play a mean lute." This is a play on the phrase "to play a mean guitar", which means playing it very well. In addition I believe "mean lute" is an obscure term for a baroque tenor lute as well. Now I admit I had to look up the phrase before I understood it (not being an English native speaker), but then I'm not calling myself a professional translator. This man, however, does, and he still was clueless, so he ignored "lute" completely and translated the sentence as meaning "They say he can be very mean."
Another one is the phrase "cutting toast into soldiers", which appears in several Pratchett novels. Once again I looked it up and found it meant cutting toast into strips. The Pratchett translator put it just literally, which makes me think he assumed it meant something like that:
Monstrous Regiment
Beginning with The Fifth Elephant Pratchett slowly began to change his writing into a new style which I term his late period. He phased out the spoofs and light comedy in favour of a more laid-back witty tone. Footnotes became fewer. But the books became so much better in terms of atmosphere, approaching the level of real literature at times. This enabled him to succesfully take up more serious topics more regularly. Many ideas and characters were revisited in this light to the point of nearly contradicting earlier books. The mechanical Harry-Potter-like magic of the wizards made way to unexplained semi-mystical happenings, that were treated much more serious than in earlier novels. I think it was a very good transition.
While, despite all the changes, Night Watch was still written in a style much similar to the previous novels, Monstrous Regiment is the first Discworld novel that has all the hallmarks of the new period. It is set in a desolate, ruined little country named Borogravia which has been brought low by endless self-inflicted wars with mightier neighbours until basically only the women are left. So now women start joining the army in secret in the last desperate draft. Led by a hapless, famished officer who has been taken from his desk job to fight on the front, they manage to … on second thoughts, I won't tell you. Read the book for yourself!
Pratchett paints an appropriately dreary picture of a war-torn, famished country additionally tortured by an insane and gloomy religion. Some Ankh-Morpork regulars make guest appearances. I hope you like Jeanne d'Arc. With a twist, of course. As for the other twists of the book (which I won't divulge): Pratchett has a good idea there, but there is such a thing as using a good idea too often. After seeing that particular thing happen again and again in the book (especially towards the end) I could not help but groan inwardly a bit. One star deduced from full marks for this.
Going Postal
The switch to a different style did Pratchett a lot of good and he produced a series of very strong novels, of which Going Postal is one of the best. It introduces a new set of characters which recur in later books, centered around Moist von Lipwig, a brilliant con man who at the beginning of the book is sitting in a cell waiting to be hanged. He is the hero, mind you. His love interest will be Adora Belle Dearheart, who is angry, severely dressed, and chain-smokes cigarettes (and not from a cigarette holder, as suggested by the cover illustration). I don't know why, but it seems to work.
In addition there's a load of brilliant ideas and characters, including one elderly Mr. Groat, who pratices "natural medicine" including sulphur and acids until his socks blow up and who has a very distinct way of speaking ("Well, Mr Mutable, he was the first, decent chap, he fell down into the big hall from the fifth floor, smack, sir, smack on to the marble."), and the community of pin collecting nerds (they have special shops and magazines about pins, but not nails, because those are obscene). And Pratchett has managed to revitalize the wizards by introducing several new ones not belonging to the old faculty, busy with all kinds of weird research. ("You may experience a taste of eggs and the sensation of being slapped in the face with some sort of fish.")
Also, which is characteristic for the late period Pratchett, there's a bit of paranormal mysticism, and scenes that manage to conjure up a truly eerie atmosphere. And there's a charismatic, modern villain. Another innovation is (finally) the use of chapters, which each do start with a two lines long description of its content in keywords (which make no sense at all before you read the chapter). It is an idea that works out nicely and he stuck to it in later books. Half a point is deduced from full score for the main villain's henchman, who is a stupid character, and the somewhat confused ending.
— soon to come —
Making Money
This one picks up where Going Postal ended. After Moist von Lipwig was forced to bring Ankh-Morporks stunned post office back to life, he is now ordered to do the same to the Royal Mint. I am getting the impression that Pratchett is in the habit of writing some books twice, as with Moving Pictures and Soul Music, or with Lords and Ladies and Carpe Jugulum. Despite the fact that Making Money is not nearly as fresh as Going Postal, and the new characters aren't as good, it is still a decent book. Lipwig and Adora Belle "Spike" Dearheart are still very enjoyable characters, and the villain is so crazy you can hardly view him as a real threat. Conculsion: A good, average book of the late Pratchett period.
Unseen Academicals
— soon to come —


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El Viaje de Beatriz (Beatriz's Journey)
Product Code: V42000
- Comedy | Drama
- Young Audiences | Middle School | Family (all ages)
- 1m., 1w., 3 to 10 either gender.
- 55 min.
A young girl's doll magically comes to life and sends Beatriz searching for her abuela in Dreamland with nothing but a blank map to guide her. Learn More
$9.95 /script
Min. Royalty Rate: $80/perf
In StockLearn More


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We tell about record-breaking declines of the Dow Jones index and the stability of gold.
Many of you are familiar with "broken bubble" and stock market crash concepts. They all mean the same thing — the Dow Jones Industrial Average Index crash. This aggravates tension between nations and countries, as well causes panic due to a threat of the financial havoc.
What Is the Dow Jones Index?
First of all, Dow Jones — is a stock market average price index that evaluates stock rate of the largest American companies. It is published for more than two centuries, showing changes in stock price value. This indicator reflects the true state of the U.S. economy. Listed companies' ranking is changing followed up by stock market trends.
As of today, the ranking includes the 30 largest companies, such as:
American Express, Apple Inc., Boeing Co., Coca-Cola Co., Nike, Microsoft and many others.
Line graph of the Dow Jones Industrial Average Index change:
What are the reasons behind the Dow Jones Index crash?
Reasons are very different. Predicting the next crash is nearly impossible. Even the world's wealthiest financiers lose billions of dollars in one day.
For example, the so-called Black Monday occurred on the 19th of October 1987. Stock market crash occurred because of Iranian missile attacks in the Persian Gulf. The Dow Jones index dropped by 22,6%. Depositors lost 500 billion dollars.
Top 5 Biggest Crashes in History
Date of the Dow Jones
index crash
Decline (%)
October 19, 1987
|Iranian missile attacks in the Persian Gulf
October 27, 1997
|The Asian Financial Crisis
September 29, 2008
|The World's Financial Crisis
August 8, 2011
|Downgrade of the U.S. credit-rating
February 5, 2018
|US Federal Reserve's (FED) tightening Monetary Policy
This year's "Black Monday" happened on February 5. Nobody expected an intense overnight crash. Experts point out never in history has the stock market crash been so rapid.
What are the consequences of the crash?
Crashes, as a rule, tend to lead to material losses and bankruptcy.
As a result of the index drop, banks and corporations are losing trillions of US dollars, the large-scale destruction of financial institutions happens. People are deprived of housing, pensions and savings. Considerable losses occur in the world's markets , credit lines get closed and panic sets in.
All of this underlines the devastating consequences of the LFS virus - the Lack of Financial Security.
The LFS virus is underpinned by the the fear index.
What is the fear index?
Stock market crashes usually lead to "the fear index" (VIX - Volatility Index) rise. This indicator reflects the level of concerns that stock market trading participants have and helps to see the extent of the panic.
If the fear index is 15, it represents the optimistic outlook of the market. At the time of the crash it can soar to high levels. People get terrified, fearing of going broke and losing it all.
The fear index determines the lack of Financial Security.
During the February stock market crash in 2018, the fear index has risen up to 126%.
What can protect your assets?
In order to understand how to act and capture the moment, knowledge and hard work are required.
Only stability and clear understanding of what will happen tomorrow can protect you from the Lack of Financial Security virus.
History repeats itself, crises abruptly absorb companies and corporations. Any decline is the consequence of the LFS virus. Dollar loses its value, tension grows. Nobody in the whole world knows what will happen tomorrow. In times of uncertainty, gold becomes a safe asset for businessmen. By purchasing gold, you can be sure that investments will pay off.
In 1999, one share of Dow Jones could be bought for 45 ounces of gold.
Now you can get 18 ounces of gold per share.
It is evident that the index lost its positions, going down by 30%.
Here is the yield curve of the Dow Jones index gold to silver ratio:
Throughout the crisis, gold maintained its value. Over the last decade, the price of precious metals increased by 350%. Prices rose from $300 dollars per ounce to $1350 and above.
Leading world powers gradually accumulate gold reserves. In January 2018, gold reserves of the American gold stock funds increased by 27,6 tons.
European stock exchanges have enhanced the fund of the yellow metal by 7,6 tons. In Russia alone, 57 new gold deposits were discovered in 2017. In the year 2018, the country is planning to increase gold reserves up to 175 tons of gold.
Each of you can save and boost your golden capital together with Global InterGold.


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How Does Solar Power Save You Money?
By Emily Green
It's a well-known fact that renewable solar energy is an eco-friendly way to power your home, but does it generate as much green for your pocket as it does for the environment?
Solar power can help you save money in many ways. Understanding the specific benefits for your home will give you a good idea as to just how much green this technology can put back in your pocket.
How Solar Power Works
At the most basic level, solar power is energy generated by the sun. The sun's rays produce electromagnetic radiation which is then absorbed by solar panels used to power your home. Solar cells within the panels react to the sun's rays and produce a type of electricity. A complex circuitry system then transmits that electricity throughout your home, powering it just like standard electricity.
There are many types of solar power cells — the type you use will determine how much money you're saving based on efficiency:
- Standard crystalline silicon cells can convert as much as 23% of the sun's light into electricity.
- Highly efficient cells, such as those used on satellites, can have efficiency levels of up to 50%.
- The cells that are affordable enough for you install on your roof, however, typically have power efficiency of just 15 to 18%.
Solar power is most readily available when your panels are actively collecting power from the sun. If you have an unshaded roof that faces south, east, or west, it should collect some form of solar power during the day. The panels will store unused energy as well, so you're not completely without power at night or in the morning before the sun comes up. As long as you connect your system to a power grid, you'll be supplied with the power you need, though some of it might still come in the form of traditional electricity.
Tax Incentives for Solar Power
Tax incentives for using renewable solar power are available from both state and federal governments. State incentives vary. For example, Massachusetts allows a 15% tax credit for the cost of the system including installation costs of up to $1,000. In Arizona, people can take advantage of a 25% tax credit up to $1,000. Solar power devices in the state are 100% exempt from sales tax. Check with your state to calculate the exact benefits available to you.
The current federal tax credit for solar power systems is 30% of the cost with no limit. Rentals do not qualify for this credit, but both new and existing construction projects are eligible. This tax credit is due to expire at the end of 2016.
Elimination of Electricity Costs
Electricity costs vary by place. The U.S. Department of Energy reports average electricity rates of 6.1 cents in Seattle, WA, 9.1 cents in Denver, CO, and 13.6 cents in Concord, NH. With such a broad range, it's important to check the local rates where you live to find what your real savings will be. For the most exact calculations, factor in an average increase of 4.3% each year on your power bill. With solar energy, you can all but drop this cost.
Increased Home Value
Installing solar panels on your home increases its value. In California, homes with solar power typically sell twice as fast as homes without this feature. Solar power will also increase the rate of appreciation on your home. In California, homes appreciated 55% with solar panels and just 45% without. Though figures aren't as readily available for other states, the benefits are comparable in many areas. Buying a home with solar power is a great investment as well because you'll enjoy long-term energy savings.
Savings Considerations
While there are many ways to save with solar power, it's important that you keep them in the proper perspective. For example, if you sell your home you will reap the benefits of an increased home value, but you will no longer enjoy the energy savings benefits. You can calculate one or the other into your total savings, but you won't enjoy both at the same time. While you will lower your power bill considerably, you may not cut it entirely if your solar panels are not large enough or efficient enough to supply all your power needs.
The Lifespan of Solar Panels
Most solar power systems have a manufacturer's warranty of 25 to 30 years. For the sake of making the most accurate savings estimates possible, most calculations assume that your system will last for 25 years. However, with proper care and maintenance, your panels may last as long as 40 years.
Solar panels need very little attention. Most only require regular cleanings. Provided that you're capable of climbing to the roof with a bucket of soapy water and a rag, you can do this job yourself, effectively eliminating any maintenance costs.
Calculating Your Personal Savings
To find your personal savings with the solar panels, do the following:
- Get a quote for a solar power system in your home.
- Calculate your state and federal tax savings.
- Use the prior year's energy bills to estimate the cost of electricity for your home, allowing for the expected increases each year.
- Divide the cost of your solar power system after tax incentives by 25 years to find the annual cost of the system.
- Compare the annual cost of your system with your annual electricity bills to find your estimated savings.
Keep in mind the cost of installation will vary according to the size and type of your solar power system. The U.S. Department of Energy reports that solar electric systems typically cost about $8/W after installation, or about $24,000 for a 3-kilowatt system. If you have to finance this item, you must include the cost of interest in the overall cost of the system as you're calculating the savings of using solar power for your home.
In the right home, solar power can save your family a great deal of money. Do your math before installing a system to see just how large your savings will be.
Emily Green is a freelance tech writer who has written more than 1,000 articles on the web. You can connect with her on Twitter @emgreen85.
Environmental News from Living Green Magazine – Where Green Is Read
Category: Energy & Ecology, Featured Articles
Comments (5)
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In the interest of full disclosure, you should read a little bit about the Toxic process and materials that go into Solar Panels, before declaring them all Green for the environment.
This is great at outlining what individuals and residential property owners can get out of using solar pv. At EnergySage we try to show people just how easy shopping for solar can be. We recently did a blog on why consumers should not focus on just the dollars per watt figure when evaluating a quote. This could be a really nice addition to your piece because it gives people another way to see that solar is more than it sometimes appears to be! The blog can be found here: http://bit.ly/ZnhXXg
Factual inaccuracies: 1) Efficiency of the cell technology does not affect the potential savings or more precisely the energy generated by a rated Wattage module. Horsepower= Horsepower. 2) The panels will not store energy. Some solar electric(pv)SYSTEMS have the capability to store power but this is though other components. 3) Modules have a guarantee period of 25 years because the manufactures do no know how long the modules will last. The modules that were made 25 years ago with a 2 year warranty still produce power today. Really, how many people drive a car that is still under warranty?; Otherwise a very nice article. In my opinion, I like to talk about how solar makes people independent, kind of like solar "seeds."
Even though solar panels are a little costly but they are very economical in if seen as long term investment. Also these are very easily available nowadays and Government orgs provides subsidies on them.
I knew there were a ton of solar tax credits but this is a great resource for nation wide credits and I will pass off to my clients.
The fact that homes in CA sell twice as fast is a great statistic to know as well. Thanks for the informative post here…


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Sarah Rowe
Kansas City
Phone: 816-437-9656
Sarah Rowe has over 10 years of experience in the field of commercial real estate. Starting out as a legal secretary, she has been involved in all aspects of commercial transactions, including, but not limited to: mortgage loans from both lender and borrower sides, acquisitions, dispositions, and commercial leasing from both landlord and tenant sides.
Sarah Rowe can be reached via email and LinkedIn.
Download Sarah's vcard.
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Additionally, Sarah has experience with Regulated Industries in Kansas City, Missouri and the liquor license process with the State of Missouri. She also has experience with Historic & Low Income Tax credit applications and HUD Contracts.
In addition to her extensive real estate experience, Sarah also handles corporate law functions including drafting operating agreements, partnership agreements and corporate by-laws, formation documents, and reporting requirements.
Sarah graduated cum laude from the University of Missouri – Kansas City School of Law, attending law school while working full time. She was a member of the Transactional Layering Skills Board and served as a journal member on the UMKC Law Review, the Urban Lawyer and the Journal of the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers.
Law School: University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Law, J.D., 2016
College: University of Kansas, B.A.
Admitted: Missouri Bar 2017