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As a preview to my feature story for the February 2012 issue of Investment Advisor on how advisors can learn to speak their clients' languages, here are what some of your peers have to say about global investing, taxes, divorce and more. As a follow-on, I've included suggestions on how to deal with these differences from my perspective as a psychotherapist and money coach.
Global Investing
"Canada is more of a melting pot; they are more culturally tolerant of differences. Canadians travel all over the world without hesitation. In the U.S., only about a quarter of Americans own a passport; in Canada, it's well over 60 percent. The Canadian investor will be more of a global investor. Americans tend to have a local bias."
–Robert Keats, CFP, president of Keats, Connelly & Associates in Phoenix and author of "The Border Guie," a guide to living, working and investing across the border for Canadians and Americans living in Canada
If you normally focus on U.S.-centric investments, building a reputation for a more global perspective may help you attract clients from other cultures, including but certainly not limited to Canada.–Olivia
Marriage and Divorce
"In our culture, marriages are viewed in the same perspective as other relationships such as paternal or maternal–i.e., once in a lifetime. It is assumed that people need to adjust and make it work. Ending the relationship isn't often seen as a solution, while Western societies tend to be more open to that choice."
–Devang Shah, CFP, a financial planner with Right Returns Financial Planning in Mumbai, India
No doubt you've worked with many American clients whose planning process has been dramatically affected by the trauma and ugly repercussions of divorce. Advising Indian clients who are in stable but difficult marriages can present different challenges, such as getting both spouses on board to make decisions. However, our culture's use of money as "war reparation payments" probably won't happen in an unhappy marriage between Indians.–Olivia (left)
Life Insurance
"The real frustrating part [of working with Hispanic clients] is that it's a more passive kind of culture. They don't like conflict, so they won't share with you a lot of what's on their mind. For example, a husband and wife, two kids, you know they need life insurance. You're there telling them they need a $600,000 policy. [These are] middle or lower middle class clients, probably in their mid- or late 30s. When you talk about life insurance, he's thinking about 'el sancho–the guy who will take over my family when I'm gone.' They'll focus on the cost [without mentioning el sancho]. But if I bring up el sancho–'You're afraid el sancho's gonna end up with the money!'–then we can laugh and have a real discussion about it. When I say, 'And I can create a trust for you to avoid el sancho getting the money'; then 100% of the time, we can get them in life insurance."
–Louis Barajas, CFP, owner of Louis Barajas Wealth Planning, Santa Fe Springs, Calif.
Barajas' comment reminds me that it's risky for an advisor who comes from outside the client culture to claim intimacy with it. In this case, it would be a bad idea for a non-Hispanic advisor to affect familiarity with the culture by tossing around terms like "el sancho." Instead, you might talk to clients' fears by saying something like "I imagine you might be concerned about leaving money to help your wife and kids. I can help you make sure that your money goes to them alone." This may win you a loyal client who appreciates that you've got his back.–Olivia
Tax Planning
"The overlying issue [with wealthy Mexican clients] is that they have a big blind spot about taxes. For example, Mexico doesn't have an estate tax, so Mexican clients are very surprised when I bring up planning for estate taxes. Also, Mexico, like most countries in the world, taxes residents [the same] regardless of where they come from. In the U.S., tax [varies] based on citizenship and residence status, which most Mexicans aren't aware of. Resident aliens don't have an unlimited marital deduction, while American citizens do.
"Also, resident aliens have limits to how much they can give to one another, unlike in Mexico. Let's say there's a wealthy couple who are U.S. residents. They have everything in the husband's name, but then they buy a condo worth $750,000 and put it in their joint names. That may create a tax issue for them, because it's considered a gift to her.
"Another issue is that in Mexico, there's no tax on gifts to descendants or ascendants. So if I can talk to Mexicans before they become U.S. residents, we can help them transfer assets as gifts to their children before they come here and lower their taxes tremendously."
–Raoul Rodriguez Walters, CFP, president of Mexico Advisor, Portland, Ore.
When you educate yourself on tax law differences and their implications, you will be able to not only advise and inform your clients more knowledgeably, but also help persuade them that you have their best interests at heart.–Olivia
"Canadians like to pay down their debt, and paying off the mortgage is 'the thing to do.' There are very few tax-free bonds or tax-deferred annuities in Canada. That's why it's better for them to pay down their mortgages. When they come to the U.S., because mortgages are tax-deductible in the States, they want to have one to be able to deduct it.
"They love the lower tax rate here. There are many opportunities in the U.S. for different kinds of tax-free or tax-deferred investments, so they can live off their investment portfolio with a higher level of after-tax income.
"The big thing for an American financial planner who's dealing with a Canadian client in the U.S. is to understand differences on the tax side. Investments are very similar, but you need to know Canadian retirement plans. Every Canadian has the equivalent of an IRA called a Registered Retirement Savings Plan. When a Canadian client moves to the States, advisors need to understand what to do with these plans, and do things correctly and in the right order, or they'll create both Canadian and American tax problems."
–Robert Keats (above), CFP, president of Keats, Connelly & Associates, Phoenix
If you're not familiar with important issues that typically affect clients from a different culture, you might consider hiring an expert to consult with and coach you. As Robert Keats says, doing things just right and in the right order will help avoid problems for your client and make you look like an ace.–Olivia
Property & Casualty insurance
"Mexico is not a litigious society, so liability issues aren't important [there]. But in the States, anyone who can sue you can wipe you out. So homeowners and auto insurance in Mexico don't have a huge liability component, whereas in the States, they do. When people move to the States, we have to help them see why they need good liability coverage in their homeowners and auto insurance, and we may recommend an umbrella policy to provide excess liability coverage. Usually it's not hard to convince them of the need, but they come here unaware of it."
–Raoul Rodriguez Walters, CFP, president of Mexico Advisor, Portland, Ore.
This is an excellent example of the value an advisor can add by taking the time to educate clients about unfamiliar risks in their new land.–Olivia
Willingness to Save and Invest
"My 80-year-old neighbor from China sums it up like this: Asians view deposits/cash as investments in a secure future and debt/liabilities as being wasteful expenditures."
–Rita Cheng, CFP, financial advisor with Ameriprise Financial Services in Bethesda, Md.
"Canadians look at the U.S. as their big brother. It's a love-hate relationship; we have the longest unprotected border in the world.
"Canadians are much better savers than Americans; they've been saving at a higher rate forever. Right now, they're investing their money in U.S. real estate. Realtors say, 'Thirty to 50 percent of my buyers are Canadian, and they all pay cash!' We have [Canadian] clients we do tax work for who have bought a hundred homes here [in the U.S.] and paid cash for them all. They've helped save the real estate markets in Arizona and Florida.
"In a recent newspaper article, I saw that one out of five Canadians is either buying property in the U.S. or thinking about buying property in the U.S. They have more confidence in the U.S. economy than U.S. citizens do."
—Robert Keats, CFP, president of Keats, Connelly & Associates, Phoenix, Ariz. (who has dual U.S./Canadian citizenship)
Remember, what seems to be an imbalance in the way clients manage their finances may make perfect sense in the environment they came from. —Olivia
Self vs. the Family
"It is more accepted in Western culture that each person must look after oneself. Indian culture tends to revolve around the family, around the obvious dependencies of young or even adolescent children on parents and of parents on their adult children."
–Devang Shah, CFP, a financial planner with Right Returns Financial Planning in Mumbai, India
Be mindful of this norm when advising clients from cultures where family members tend to support each other financially throughout life. Try not to come across as judgmental or lacking empathy. On the contrary, you will need to help them learn about taking care of themselves without expecting them to abandon the cherished value of "family first." In many cases, compromise may be necessary in working with clients who have this outlook. –Olivia
"What I find fascinating about the U.S. is that once you're there, many [people] are Americans first and something else second. For example, in America someone from Italy becomes an Italian-American, but American first, and is more likely to wave the American flag. I'm jealous of that because I think it's a wonderful attribute. My son-in-law is Canadian-born, but from an Italian family. His parents came to Canada when they were very young. And he considers himself Italian."
—Naguib Kerba, CFP, financial planner and branch manager at Investment Planning Counsel in Mississauga, Ontario
Before taking on a client from a background different from your own, figure out whether this person is highly assimilated into American culture, or still espouses the values and behaviors of their national or ethnic heritage. Your client connection will be strengthened if you make this a priority early in the relationship. Practice curiosity and acceptance–an especially valuable attitude when trying to ensure that a client who speaks a different language will feel understood and respected. –Olivia
See Olivia Mellan's latest feature story from the January issue of Investment Advisor, on what advisors should do to help their clients who find themselves on the dark side of retirement.


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Grapes of Wrath is dyed with a greyish brown base with teal, wine and brown speckles.
Each skein is hand dyed with professional acid dyes and heat set. I wash the yarns in wool wash and rinse to make sure that the dye has set. Even with this process, you may get minimal bleeding on the first few washes.
Dyed and stored in a smoke-free home.
While this is superwash merino and you could machine wash gentle and tumble dry low, I always recommend hand washing with mild soap or wool wash and lay flat to dry to ensure a long life of hand knits.
I'd love to see your hand-knit projects. Please use #theperfectstitchfibreco so I can what projects you use with this yarn!
Find out about my Yarn Bases

subset: commoncrawl


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|The Ocean County Bar Association was incorporated on May 22, 1924 as a non-profit association, and has more than 600 attorneys and judges among its members.
The Association was formed for the purpose of maintaining the honor and dignity of the profession of law, developing professional relationship among members, and promoting the administration of justice.
To promote and encourage continuing legal education, programs and seminars are offered to the membership while scholarships are awarded each year to law students residing in Ocean County.
The Ocean County Bar Association also pursues worthwhile charitable activities, including a holiday toy drive. A Lawyer Referral program helps clients identify qualified attorneys to assist in a broad range of legal matters.


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I liked everything and hated nothing, except the lack of a heated steering wheel during winter.Had both Cog belts replaced at the Dealer for about 380.00. One might think it's a Cadillac, or someother exspensive car. They just see me comming :)
Hyundai Sonata Ratings, Reviews and Analysis
Ratings & Reviews
This car has a smooth ride, good traction in the snow, and gets good gas mileage. The interior is roomy and comfortable. It is just the right size for me (I am only 5'1" tall). The car is stylish and has nice looking lines.
MAKE THE SPARK PLUGS MORE ACCESSIBLE!!!!!!!! You pretty much have to take out literally almost 20 bolts just to get to these things. Incredibly expensive to have done! Should the company need someone to take a Hyandai off their hands I would do it in less than a heart beat! Thank you Hyandai for making such an incredible, affordable car! From the bottom of my heart, THANK YOU!
Car is stunning. I would recommend the Sonata to anyone who likes class and a smooth ride. I like my dealership, capital Hyundai in San Jose - man they are 100% customer driven. If I had it my way I would own three of these cars
Fell in love with this car the moment I saw and test-drove it. Nice design, great features inside and out. Can't think of anything I'm unhappy with in this car.


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Winner update, 5.25.12 – Thank you to all who participated. Random numbers have been chosen. Congratulations to:
- 2 – Miranda
- 14 – Maria
- 19 – Kim
- 6 – Dana H.
- 17 – Wen
- 3 – Amy M.
Once again, congratulations! Email me at firstname.lastname@example.com with your name and address. I'll drop your gift card in the mail as soon as possible. Thank you to all of you for your great comments. I appreciate you reading!
I normally wouldn't review a chain, let along one that is fast food. But when Chick-fil-A reached out and asked me to give their restaurant a go because of their new desserts, I decided to say 'absolutely!' Why? Let me tell you.
- A reason to eat a spicy chicken sandwich. Eating out at lunch is rare, especially fast food. So an excuse to have the spicy sandwich was accepted. I like that it is a tender chicken sandwich with subtle, spicy breading. The end pieces are crispy, but most of it is barely covered with the thin breading. Plus, a pickle ends it well for me.
- I like chocolate. The whole reason was the try desserts. And I'm not one to turn down some ice cream, cookies, and brownies.
- Desserts for you! Yup, you heard me. YOU can get these wonderful desserts yourself. But of course, I had to try them first.
After I noshed on my chicken sandwich and waffle fries, I gave the cookie sundae a try. A chocolate chunk cookie was broken up in the bottom of the cup and topped with soft serve ice cream. Vanilla I may add. Whipped cream and cherry with more chocolate cookie chunks rounded out the simple dessert. Something I would expect from CFA. They take simple food and make sure it is solid and yum (that's a technical term – yum). And yes, this sundae was the perfect sweet ending to my lunch. The cookie was soft, chewy, and loaded with chocolate chunks. Delicious.
But, I want you to try for yourself. And though I paid for my lunch and sundae (the sundae is a mere $1.79!), CFA and I don't want you to. They want you to enjoy it all just because you are a reader of City Nom Noms. Talk about a deal.
I have a numerous gift cards to give out to you! Each card gives you an opportunity to try a dessert every month, all summer long.
- May – chocolate chunk cookie
- June – brownie
- July – chocolate chunk cookie sundae
How do you win a gift card? All you need to do is leave a comment telling me why you love CFA! Maybe it is the fantastic service you always receive, or maybe it is because you appreciate that they close on Sunday for their employees to have a weekend. Or, maybe you like the spicy chicken sandwich as much as I do.
That's it. And don't hesitate to share the opportunity via twitter or Facebook. There are plenty to give away – I have a total of six cards for you to enjoy. Well, six of you!
As I have been out of town for a large chunk of May, I understand there isn't much time left for this. So this will be a quick contest, as I don't want you missing out on that cookie! The contest will end at Friday, May 25 at 5:00 p.m. eastern standard time. I'll randomly (via computerized system) pick six winners and send all of you a card to enjoy (and then you best get to CFA for your May dessert!)
Start commenting, and as always, thanks for reading (and be sure to thank CFA for this opportunity!)
Note: the opinions of all restaurants are those of the restaurant and not mine. This giveaway is sponsored by Chick-fil-A to promote their new desserts.


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MWC 15 Special
Google has launched Google Maps Mobile a little more than five years ago and since then it has added dozens of features. However, while Google Maps Mobile got features like Google Maps Navigation and Google Latitude, a couple of things have remained the same: a flat, north-up map and the need for a strong Internet connection. But yesterday, Google has launched Google Maps Mobile 5.0 for Android which comes with a lot of enhancements and changes, including 3D maps, offline reliability, offline rerouting, and more; while other features like Navigation, Latitude or Places are unchanged.
3D Maps - Until now, Google Maps has always downloaded the map as a set of small, square images that were stitch together to form the map users have sees. However, starting yesterday, Google is now using vector graphics to dynamically draw the map on devices, allowing users to interact with it in new ways:
Offline Reliability - Google Maps has always been, and continues to be, a fundamentally Internet-connected experience, meaning users always get the freshest map and place data, search and voice search, live traffic conditions, satellite and Street View imagery, and much more. Still, Google understand that mobile Internet connections aren't 100 % reliable. So with yesterday's update, Google took the first steps toward greater offline reliability, so users can find their way even if the connection was lost.
Rather than having a static set of maps when installed, Maps will automatically start caching the areas which were visited the most when a device is plugged in and connected to WiFi (e.g., the nightly charge). And Google goews even further by already working to improve the algorithms and technology behind these features, so over time users can expect to see maps work better in more offline situations.
Offline Rerouting - Loosing the mobile Internet connection while using Google Maps Navigation can be particularly painful and therefore Google has also introduced offline rerouting. It's still required to have connection to start a route, but if a turn along the way is missed, Google Maps Navigation is getting the user back on track, even if there's no Internet connection available at the moment. This feature will be rolled-out gradually over the next few weeks.
Google Maps Mobile 5.0 is now available from the Android Market, free of charge. Android 1.6+ devices can get Maps 5.0 but 3D and offline features require Android 2.0+, and some features may not be supported for all devices or countries.
Cheers ~ Arne
Article Source
Related Articles Google Maps Mobile
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It's a ball game--what do you expect?
"Modern Family's" Eric Stonestreet apparently had a little run-in during Sturday's Dodgers game in Los Angeles with a fan from the other team, and it got him in a little trouble with the security.
But don't assume he got kicked out of the game, because he totally didn't.
U.S. & World
In case you didn't know, Stonestreet's costar Sofia Vergara is super hot
"i did NOT get kicked out of the Dodgers game last night. did i get escorted to the top of the stairs by security? yes. yes i sure did," Stonestreet tweeted Sunday.
The actor and Emmy nominee reportedly was asked to leave after he allegedly got into a verbal altercation with a St. Louis Cardinals fan, who was heckling a Dodger player.
Well, at least the boys in blue know they have Stonestreet to back them up.


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Acupuncture, or needle puncture, is a European term invented by Willem Ten Rhyne, a Dutch physician who visited Nagasaki in Japan in the early part of the seventeenth century. The Chinese describe acupuncture by the character 'Chen', which literally means 'to prick with a needle', a graphic description of this therapeutic technique.
Early History
Acupuncture has a clearly recorded history of about 2,000 years, but some authorities claim that it has been practiced in China for some 4,000 years. The Chinese believe that the practice of acupuncture began during the Stone Age when stone knives or sharp edged tools, described by the character 'Bian', were used to puncture and drain abscesses. In fact the Chinese character 'Bian' means the 'use of a sharp edged stone to treat disease', and the modern Chinese character 'Bi', representing a disease of pain, is almost certainly derived from the use of 'Bian stones' for the treatment of painful complaints.
The origin of Chinese medicine is a fascinating story and acupuncture represents only one facet of their medical system. The first recorded attempt at conceptualizing and treating disease dates back to about 1500 BC during the Shang dynasty. Tortoise shells with inscriptions dating from that time have been found, and it is thought that these were used for divination in the art of healing. The philosophical basis of much of the very early Chinese medicine seems to have been to seek harmony between the living and their dead ancestors, and the good and evil spirits that inhabited the earth.
The Development of the Chinese Approach to Medicine and Science
The first known acupuncture text is the Nei Ching Su Wen and there is a great deal of controversy about the exact origins and authorship of this book. The Nei Ching Su Wen is divided into two main sections, the Su Wen, or simple questions and the Ling Shu, or difficult questions. The book is also known by a variety of alternative titles such as the Yellow Emperor's Classic of Internal Medicine, or the Canon of Medicine, but all these titles refer to the same basic text.
The initial section of the Nei Ching Su Wen involves a discussion between the Yellow Emperor, Huang Ti, and his Minister, Ch'i Pai. This discussion lays down the philosophical basis of traditional Chinese medicine, and makes the Nei Ching Su Wen more of a treatise on health and disease rather than a textbook of medicine. Early Greek texts on medicine are mainly of interest to the medical historian rather than the practicing physician. For instance, Hippocrates does make many excellent philosophical and practical observations about disease and the doctor-patient relationship, but for the most part these texts are recipe books for a variety of ill-defined diseases. The Nei Ching Su Wen is timeless and deals almost exclusively with philosophical concepts, many of which seem to be as important today as they were 2,000 years ago.
Professor Joseph Needham, one of the greatest living experts on Chinese scientific philosophy, describes some aspects of the ancient Chinese system of science as mediaeval and retrogressive He feels that many of these concepts have distorted that development and obvious potential of Chinese medicine There is undoubtedly an element of truth in this but there is still a great deal of useful and valuable information within the traditional Chinese approach to medicine.
The Western doctor observes the facts before him and uses the current physiological theories to explain them. Chinese medicine is based on a much wider world view, which is described in the Nei Ching Su Wen, and these ideas are woven into a complete and intact system based on a philosophy different from that of modern Western medicine. The concepts of Yin and Yang, and the number five, are two of the more important ideas that permeate much of traditional Chinese scientific thought.
Yin and Yang are opposite aspects of the material world. Like night and day they are interdependent, and the existence of one end of the spectrum presupposes the existence of the other aspect; i.e. Yin is necessary for Yang to exist, and vice versa. At first the idea of Yin and Yang seems very simplistic; it is not, it describes the fundamental fluctuating balance of nature. A modern concept that pre-supposes the existence of Yin and Yang is ecology, one of the main principles of which is that the forces of the environment must be in a fluctuating balance.
The number five is also very important to Chinese thought. For example, there are five notes in the musical scale, five tastes for food and five elements in the physical world (earth, fire, water, wood and metal). The five elements are not just atomic constituents of matter, they have also been described as the five transitional stages of all physical materials. It is these philosophical ideas that form the basis of much of the discussion in the Nei Ching Su Wen.
The authorship of the Nei Ching Su Wen is attributed to Huang Ti, the Yellow Emperor, but there is some doubt as to whether Huang Ti actually existed and a great deal more doubt about the claim that he wrote the Nei Ching Su Wen. Genealogies of the Chinese dynasties list him as the third of first five rulers of China, and ascribe the dates 2697-2579 B.C to him. Ssu-Ma Ch'ien, an historian of the second century BC begins the Historical Records with an account of Huang Ti and defines him as the founder of the Chinese civilization, and the first ruler of the Empire. He is one of three legendary Emperors who founded the art of healing; the others are Shen Nung and Hsi.
It is probable that the Nei Ching Su Wen was written by a variety of people and was updated by several important Chinese physicians. Some authorities date the Nei Ching Su Wen from 1000 BC whilst others, probably more correctly, date this text to the Warring States period (475-221 BC). The Ling Shu was almost certainly added during the Warring States period, and the twenty-four chapters that comprise the Nei Ching Su Wen were probably revised and re-written at this time.
The Development of Chinese Philosophy
The Warring States period is a particularly interesting time in Chinese history and has exerted a great deal of influence on Chinese thought. Two main philosophical ideologies became part of the mainstream of Chinese thought at this time, Taoism and Confucianism.
Confucianism defined the social status of prince and pauper within Chinese society and elected the Emperor a god. It result in a basically feudal and totalitarian system of government that still exists today, in an adapted form. Confucianism impinged on medicine in that it was opposed to the development of anatomy and surgery, one of its main tenets being that the whole body was sacred and should remain complete throughout life and also in death. The Confucians believed that it was important to present oneself to 'the ancestors' whole, and there-fore one of the most feared methods of execution in ancient China was decapitation. Acupuncture and related methods were the logical answer to this constraint, as they were able to cure internal disease with external means.
The Tao literally means the 'way' and the philosophy of Taoism is a method of maintaining harmony between man and his world, and between this world and beyond. The Tao, or the 'way', has been linked to a separate creed called Taoism but its basic naturalistic philosophies permeate all Chinese thought and religion, including Buddhism. Yin and Yang are very much part of the Tao, as the Book of Changes states, 'one Yin, one Yang, being called the Tao'. The religion of Taoism became formalized during the Warring States period and a book of poems entitled the Tao attributed to Lao Tsu (c. 500 BC ), describes many of the basic concepts within this philosophy.
The Taoist concept of health is to attempt to attain perfect harmony between the opposing forces of the natural world, between Yin and Yang, the belief being that the only way to be healthy is to adjust to the natural forces within the world and become part of their rhythm. It is further realized that the natural forces are completely dependent on each other; earth is dependent on rain and rain is dependent on heaven, which in turn cannot exist without the earth. In the same way Yin cannot exist without Yang, and yet the two are opposites. The concept of a unified, but at the same time polar force, governing natural events, is central to much of Chinese thought.
At first glance these concepts seem to be an irrelevant side-line to the development of a system of medicine, but acupuncture, and its development can only really be understood if the reader grasps the traditional Chinese approach to health and disease In essence, the ideal of health is perfect harmony between the forces of Yin and Yang; this represents the correct 'way' or Tao. Disharmony brings disease and death. Taoism is a passive philosophy, exalting the art of detailed and accurate observations. This was also an essential part of the development of Chinese medical thought and allowed detailed observations on organ structure and function to be made, as discussed in the first chapter.
Acupuncture Needles
As acupuncture developed, the Bian stones were discarded and needles of stone and pottery were used. These simple, primitive needles are still used in some of the rural areas of China. Eventually metal needles began to appear and these took the form of the classical 'nine needles'. The 'nine needles' comprised the arrowhead needle for superficial pricking, the round needle for massaging, the blunt needle for knocking or pressing, the three edged needle for puncturing a vein, the sword-like needle for draining abscesses, the sharp round needle for rapid pricking, the filliform needle, the long needle for thick muscles and the large needle for puncturing painful joints.
The main needle now used for acupuncture is the filliform as most of the others have been replaced by more sophisticated surgical instruments, for instance, the sword-like needle has been replaced by the scalpel.
The 'nine needles' were initially made of either bronze, or gold and silver, and seem to have been first used about 2,000 years ago. The tomb of the Prince of Chungshan, dating from the second century BC, was excavated in 1968 and contained a set of nine needles, four being of gold and five of silver. Some acupuncturists use gold and silver needles but the majority only stainless steel filliform needles.
A discussion of the history of acupuncture is incomplete without mentioning moxibustion. Moxibustion is the burning on the skin of the herb moxa. The Chinese character 'Chiu' is used to describe the art of moxibustion, and literally means 'to scar with a burning object'. Moxibustion does not now involve scarring, but moxa is still used to provide local heat over acupuncture points. It is made from the dried leaves of Artemisia vulgaris and the Chinese believe that the older the moxa, the better its therapeutic properties.


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Cities have long been the pivotal sites of political revolutions, where deeper currents of social and political change are fleshed out. Consequently, they have been the subject of much utopian thinking about alternatives. But at the same time, they are also the centres of capital accumulation, and therefore the frontline for struggles over who has the right to the city, and who dictates the quality and organization of daily life. Is it the developers and financiers, or the people? David Harvey's Rebel Cities places the city at the heart of both capital and class struggles, looking at locations ranging from Johannesburg to Mumbai, and from New York City to Sao Paulo. By exploring how cities might be reorganized in more socially just and ecologically sane ways, Harvey argues that cities can become the focus for anti-capitalist resistance.
Here's the audio from Harvey's Festival of Ideas talk in Bristol this evening. It covers issues around cities, capital accumulation, sub-prime mortgages and the financial crash, Occupy, and how a coalition of the urban dispossessed can form a meaningful alternative to neoliberal hegemony.


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Triple Town for Android and iOS: Bad News Bears take the Match Three Puzzler Crown
Sweeping generalisation alert. The pecking order in video games goes something like this – PC gamers look down on console gamers; console gamers look down on app gamers; and app gamers look down on social media gamers. One play of Triple Town however, an iOS and Android port of the Facebook phenomenon, and all notions of sneering superiority are quickly dispelled. It's just a great game, regardless of the platform it originated on.


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Bike & Brews Night Ride
- Varaktighet: 4 Timmar (cirka)
- Plats: Duluth, MN
The Bike & Brews Night Ride combines epic winter adventure with a victory beer at Ursa Minor Brewing. Designed for intermediate and advanced riders, this adventure is the perfect way to celebrate winter and explore The Duluth Traverse with fun, knowledgeable guides who know the terrain and have a passion for mountain biking. Don't hibernate this winter... let's ride!
*This adventure is designed for fit guests who consider themselves intermediate or experienced riders.
Your Bike & Brews Adventure includes:
- Transportation to/from the trail in our warm, comfortable adventure van
- High-quality fat tire bike (Rocky Mountain Blizzard 10), helmet, & high-powered headlight
- Fully supported ride with your local guide
- Tips & tricks for winter riding
- Complimentary snacks and hot cocoa to keep you fueled
- Scenic views and photo opportunities
- A complimentary victory beer at Ursa Minor Brewing
Looking for a private tour? Click here to view Private Bike & Brews availability.


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Diets are tough, what with the eating and drinking of beer, and that being really, really, enjoyable and all. The IC3 Intelligent Cutlery System wants to help. How? Well, designer Alex Schulz says that as you chomp away at dinner, the IC3 does the traditional job as a fork, knife or spoon, and then goes the extra mile by silently judging and recording every bite you take.
Even more interesting is that each attachment does something different. The fork, for example, measures fat, protein and sugar content. The spoon? That weighs the food, while the knife takes your food's temperature and ensures it's safe for eating.
Then, after your meal, the IC3 synchs up with a PC or other information gathering device and produces a nutrition report, which you'll probably follow religiously for a few weeks before falling off the wagon. [Yanko Design via DVICE]


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PORTSMOUTH — Democratic lawmakers from Portsmouth disagreed Monday on the question of whether New Hampshire should allow casino gambling.
Seven members of the New Hampshire House and Senate outlined their views regarding this year's legislative session during a forum at the city's Public Library Monday night. They weighed in on issues ranging from casino gambling to the tone of political discourse in Concord.
The event was sponsored by the Portsmouth Democratic Committee. In attendance were House Speaker Terie Norelli, Portsmouth Reps. Laura Pantelakos, Jackie Cali-Pitts, Rebecca Emerson-Brown, Gerry Ward and Brian Wazlaw, and Sen. Martha Fuller Clark.
Pantelakos, the longest-serving member of the House, is among the cosponsors of a pending casino gambling bill. She spoke on the issue after it was raised by a member of the audience. Pantelakos reiterated her support, based on the fact that gambling already exists in New Hampshire in numerous forms, including operations run by charities.
Wazlaw, one of three freshman lawmakers representing Portsmouth this year, said he opposes expanded gambling, and hopes to maintain the state's relatively low crime rate and appeal to families.
"I think our brand is not expanding gambling into casino-like gambling," he said.
Cali-Pitts cautioned that gambling will not come as a "quick fix" to New Hampshire's budget problems. The lucrative fees associated with licensing a new casino wouldn't be paid to the state immediately, she said.
"To me, the devil is in the details," Cali-Pitts said.
Fuller Clark joined Wazlaw in speaking against casino gambling. She questioned whether it would be prudent to divert government resources away from other New Hampshire businesses, such as restaurants and companies that service tourism and recreational industries.
"People only have so much expendable money outside of their daily activities, and what impact will that have on the state economy?' she said.
Fuller Clark also raised concerns about casino "proliferation." Allowing one casino could open the door to a legal challenge against the state from a community seeking permission for another casino project, she said.
"It's a very complicated and complex issue, but I believe for the long-term health for the state of New Hampshire that this is not a direction that I could support," she said.
Norelli and fellow Democrats took control of the heavily-peopled House of Representatives in November. Since taking charge of the legislative agenda, Norelli said one of her priorities has been fostering a more collegial atmosphere.
"After two years of incredible challenge, in terms of relationships in the building, we're setting a new tone, and I think so far it's going very well," Norelli said.
State revenues are beginning to rebound, Norelli said, but only modestly. The state's best option is to lay the foundation for a "21st-century economy" by investing in infrastructure and education, she said.
As chairwoman of the House Criminal Justice and Public Safety Committee, Pantelakos has been attending hearings concerning one of the most contentious issues facing lawmakers this year: New Hampshire's so-called "stand-your-ground law."
A bill that would repeal the state's existing law was the subject of lengthy and animated hearings in Concord last month. Pantelakos said she supports the proposal to strike the law.
Another consequential issue facing lawmakers this year is whether New Hampshire will participate in a planned expansion of the Medicaid program in 2014.
Norelli said it would be "short-sighted" for New Hampshire not to participate, given the federal money being offered to states that go along with the plan.
An independent study found that expanding Medicaid eligibility in New Hampshire would allow an estimated 58,000 additional low-income people to receive health insurance during the next seven years. The expansion would come at an estimated cost of $85 million to the state. The program would potentially generate $2.5 billion worth of economic activity in New Hampshire the form of federal dollars.
"It is my assumption, based on public comments that the governor has made, that she will include Medicaid expansion in her budget, and the Democratic perspective is to support that," Norelli said.


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It's been a crazy few weeks for me. After sharing my story on this blog I was asked to do an interview with a local news station about my experience at Mars Hill. I also finally made the decision to talk to the wife of the couple I spoke of in my story. After telling Sophia about my conversation with this woman she asked me to write a follow up post.
This is a poem I wrote after my experience at Mars Hill. I wrote it during the hardest part of recovery from my eating disorder:
I wish I could reach across the void between us,
I wish I could reach across the void between us,
I would fill it with all of the things we won't say,
"You've changed,"
"You are judging me,"
"I envy you,"
Each tightly caged word, if spoken, could create a bridge,
We would meet in the middle.
But I am selfish and cowardly,
I hope you will do all the work.
So the void grows bigger,
Hope of crossing diminishes.
After reading the stories on this blog and choosing to share my own story, I began to find myself often thinking about healing, and what that would look like for me. Once again this brought up painful emotions, so I ignored them. I found it much easier to remain in an us-vs-them mindset regarding Mars Hill, and to simplify a very complicated problem down to Mars Hill and it's mindsets.
After gentle encouragement from my therapist I finally decided to face my fears and speak with the wife of the couple who had hurt me. As displayed by the poem I wrote above, part of me always knew this is what needed to happen for my own healing. When I imagined this meeting I feared judgement, condemnation, and believed she would try and convert me or guilt me back into attending Mars Hill.
I am pleased to say how very wrong I was. Our meeting went wonderfully. We were both honest and open with each other about the events that had transpired and how they made us feel. She opened up to me about the religious pride she and her husband had struggled with. The flakey actions I discussed in my story had hurt her more than I realized. I also discovered that my own feelings towards Mars Hill turned out to be just as much to blame as their desire for my husband and I to attend. While she did say that Mars Hill preached the truth, and it was hard for her to see me rejecting the truth, she allowed me to disagree with her. For the first time she demonstrated that our relationship was more important to her than the matter of what church I attended. I don't know if this attitude has always been there, or is more recent, but either way it is enough for me.
Virginia Woolf writes, "I have lost friends, some by death…others by sheer inability to cross the street."
We have all been hurt. Some of those people who have hurt us will be unwilling to try and right their wrongs, they might try and shift the blame to you. If you risk it and try to talk to them you may leave even more wounded than you were before, but for me it was worth it for any amount of healing and clarification it could bring to my life. I can't give anyone a formula to find forgiveness, I wouldn't dare to be that presumptuous. Crossing the street happened to be the best decision I made during this process. My anger is gone and by pursuing my own healing I was finally able to forgive her in an honest fashion.
After my experience, I really just want to encourage everyone to be honest and open with themselves about what they need for healing and to trust that their own healing will lead to forgiveness. Don't allow others to give you a formula for this process, and try to be realistic and understanding in your expectations of the people who have hurt you. There is always hope.


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"Sheckley is . . . powerful . . . fantastic . . . brilliant . . .his wry twistings of reality . . . are absolutely unique." — Roger Zelazny
"Because Sheckley leavened his darkest visions with wit and aburdist plotting, he is considered one of science fiction's seminal humorists, a precursor to Douglas Adams." — The New York Times
"The late Sheckley was known for a dark satirical style that keeps some of the more dated material in this retrospective collection fresh….Editors Lethem and Abramovich provide an insightful introduction but otherwise let the individual stories stand on their own." — Publishers Weekly
"….collection of classic sci-fi stories from the '50s and '60s, which melds the wit of Ray Bradbury with the philosophical undertones of Philip K. Dick….comic and thought-provoking gems." — The Bookseller (UK)
"Science fiction's premier gadfly." —Kingsley Amis
"Witty and ingenious . . . a draught of pure Voltaire and tonic." — J. G. Ballard
"If the Marx Brothers had been literary rather than thespic fantasists, they would have been Robert Sheckley." —Harlan Ellison
"Sheckley is my hero" —William Nye
"One of the few acknowledged humorists in SF, and by far the funniest, Sheckley plays with myths the way Mel Brooks plays with classic movies." —The New York Times Book Review
"Mr. Sheckley—as might be expected of a writer who can wring praise from as diverse a group of peers as Kingsley Amis, Harlan Ellison, John le Carre and J. G. Ballard—has an engagingly madcap manner all his own." —The Wall Street Journal
"Sheckley is one of SF's all-time masters of the humorous or satirical short story. . . . much of Sheckley's work has been hard to come by for a good many years" —Booklist
"Let's say you are a devoted fan of Kurt Vonnegut's books, love the sardonic comeuppance stories of John Collier and Roald Dahl, own all of Edward Gorey's little albums and enjoy watching reruns of 'The Twilight Zone.' Where else can you find similar instances of sly, macabre wit, of such black-humored, gin-and-tonic fizziness in storytelling? The answer may be unexpected: among the many masters of satirical science fiction and fantasy. Robert Sheckley…is certainly a leading example."—Michael Dirda, The Washington Post


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Rios' homer streak ends, hit streak continues
WASHINGTON -- Alex Rios went homerless in Wednesday's 5-2 loss to the Nationals, meaning the right fielder's streak of consecutive games clearing the fences ended at four. One more game with a long ball would have tied the franchise record, held by six other players and accomplished seven previous times.
The record holders at five straight games are Frank Thomas, twice (April 14-19 and May 24-29, 1994), A.J. Pierzynski (July 30-Aug. 5, 2012), Paul Konerko (June 17-21, 2011), Carlos Lee (April 17-21, 2003), Ron Kittle (Sept. 2-6, 1983) and Greg Luzinski (May 20-24, 1983).
Rios had a double and a single in the loss, raising his average to .419 and his hitting streak to 14 consecutive games dating back to Sept. 26, 2012, with hits in all eight games this season. He also drove in a run with a groundout in the sixth inning. Lee holds the franchise record with a 28-game hitting streak.
"He's in a position now where he can sustain himself," said White Sox hitting coach Jeff Manto. "He's truly ready to get and stay at the plateau he was at last year."
"Where he's at right now with his swing and everything, if he swings at strikes and good pitches to hit, it's almost impossible for him not to do damage," White Sox first baseman Paul Konerko said. "He's just that good right now."


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FROM THE CAVES OF BURGUNDY TO THE DUNDEE HILLS OF OREGON - The Story of Our Winery Is the Story of the Drouhin Family
The Drouhin Family's winemaking roots run deep, having taken hold in Burgundy's best vineyards more than a century ago. Through the years, there has been a very clear link, a continuum, that inhabits Maison Joseph Drouhin, and now Domaine Drouhin Oregon.
Our estate winery in the Dundee Hills creates elegant, fine Pinot Noir and Chardonnay wines forged from our family's tradition of fine winemaking in France. For more than 25 years, the Drouhin Family has brought a wealth of hard-earned experience to their vineyards in the Willamette Valley, just southwest of Portland, Oregon.
"Skills get more refined, methods evolve, but what's important is what is transmitted from generation to generation: The search for excellence, the intellectual curiosity, the sense of values, passion, the respect for terroir." -- Robert J. Drouhin
Our Oregon estate was established in the late 1980s, but our winemaking roots were planted in Burgundy a century earlier, when Joseph Drouhin moved from Chablis to Beaune, and in 1880 founded Maison Joseph Drouhin. He was succeeded by his son, the brilliant Maurice Drouhin, who dedicated his life to making fine wine. In 1957, Robert Drouhin became the third generation to run the business. He first "discovered" Oregon on a 1961 visit, and then again during the 1979 and '80 blind
tastings in Paris and Burgundy (the latter of which Robert organized) that put Oregon wines on the world map. Robert recognized that it was Oregon, more so than California, whose soils and climate could unlock the complexities and potential of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay in the United States.
In 1986, Robert's daughter Véronique came to Oregon after achieving a masters diploma in enology. She worked that harvest with three families, the Letts (Eyrie Vineyard), the Casteels (Bethel Heights) and the Adelsheims (Adelsheim Vineyards). That first impression was profound, and helped to form the bond between the Drouhins and some of the founding families of Oregon wine. It can be fairly said that Oregon's deep sense of community was a powerful magnet.
In 1987, Robert Drouhin was invited to participate in the first International Pinot Noir Celebration, and on that trip, he decided to purchase land in the Dundee Hills. Where there had only been Christmas trees and wheat, the Drouhin's began planting their first vineyards in Oregon. At the same time, Robert nominated Véronique to be the newly christened DDO winemaker, and her brother Philippe Drouhin took responsibility for viticulture. In 1988, DDO produced its first vintage, from purchased grapes, and in 1989 built the landmark, four-story gravity flow winery.
Just Wine partners with the finest bars, restaurants, wineries and retailers from around the world!


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SAN FRANCISCO (AP) - Federal aviation officials have advised all foreign airlines to use a GPS system instead of visual reckoning and cockpit instruments when landing at San Francisco International Airport in the wake of the deadly Asiana Airlines crash.
SAN FRANCISCO (AP) � Federal aviation officials have advised all foreign airlines to use a GPS system instead of visual reckoning and cockpit instruments when landing at San Francisco International Airport in the wake of the deadly Asiana Airlines crash.
The Federal Aviation Administration issued the recommendation on Sunday involving main runways at the airport, saying in a statement that it took the action after noticing an increase in aborted landings by some foreign carriers flying visual approaches into the airport.
Pilots on Asiana Airlines Flight 214 had been cleared to make a visual approach when the plane crash-landed on July 6. Three people died, and 180 others were injured among the 307 aboard the flight that came in too low and too slow, slamming its landing gear into a seawall well before the actual runway.
Seconds before the accident, the pilots called for a go-around, meaning they wanted to abort the landing and circle for another approach. The FAA said such maneuvers are "routine, standardized procedures that can occur once a day or more at busy airports for various reasons."
Two weeks after the crash, another Asiana flight aborted its landing, San Francisco airport officials said. In addition, they said a Taiwanese EVA Air flight approached too low last week then aborted and began another approach.
The FAA said it was investigating the EVA flight. It did not say how many other such incidents have occurred.
Airport officials met with Asiana managers and FAA representatives after the July 19 aborted landing by the Asiana aircraft to see if any additional measures were necessary, airport spokesman Doug Yakel said.
Sen. Dianne Feinstein also has met with federal and local officials about improving airport safety. Spokesman Brian Weiss said Monday that Feinstein also spoke with the South Korea ambassador. Asiana is based in that country.
In clear weather, it's not unusual for pilots to make a visual approach, using the view through their windshield.
They also can use an instrument system called a glide slope indicator, although that has been out of service in San Francisco since June 1 because of ongoing runway improvements.
The FAA said all foreign carriers should continue to use alternate instrument approaches until the glide slopes return to service in late August.
The advice came from "an abundance of caution," the FAA said in its statement. However, it's not a requirement. Foreign pilots can choose to fly visual approaches, but they typically accept air traffic control assignments.
Information from: San Francisco Chronicle, http://www.sfgate.com


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After saying the name "Chuck Hagel" in a funny nasal voice a few times, Jon Stewart got to the point.
President Barack Obama recently nominated former Nebraska Sen. Chuck Hagel for secretary of defense. Hagel is a decorated war veteran, an experienced politician, and a Republican. And although some senators have criticized Hagel for past positions on Israel and Iran, Stewart homed in on an issue that has nothing to do with the nominee.
Cut to a clip of Republican Sen. Lindsey Graham declaring: "The one thing I'm not going to do is vote on a new secretary of defense until the old secretary of defense, Leon Panetta, who I like very much, testifies about what happened in Benghazi."
U.S. & World
Oh, so close! Stewart then goes on to joke that Graham is starring in the play "A Streetcar Named Desire Not to Get Primaried by the Local South Carolina Tea Party."
Cut to another clip, in which Graham implies that President Obama was less than concerned about the four Americans killed in Benghazi, Libya, last year. In Stewart's Southern-accent retelling, the late-night host imitates Graham, saying, "The president does not care, for he is a cad and a scoundrel … For this president lies, like all the other men who woo you with their lies and leave behind nothing but broken dreams."
Bowing at the end of the skit, Stewart made it clear that what Graham and his fellow Republicans—those holding up the confirmation—are doing is pure political theater.
To watch the shenanigans, check out the clip below, courtesy of Comedy Central:


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The IDC, which now has eight members, has formed a coalition with the Senate Republicans to gain control of the chamber. Peralta joined Brooklyn Senator Jesse Hamilton and Manhattan Senator Marisol Alcantara as the faction's latest additions.
At the contentious town hall in Jackson Heights, Peralta attempted to explain his decision, but was often interrupted and shouted down. He was booed five minutes into speaking.
The Jackson Heights lawmaker tried to make the case that by joining the IDC and working with Republicans, he'll have the power to stop bills he disagrees with and push forward more legislation that benefits his district.
"If you're going to wait on the regular Democrats, all of this is going to fall," Peralta said. "This arrangement, this coalition, is about making sure that we as independent Democrats push back when it's conservative and push forward when it's progressive."
Peralta said he'll be able to move ahead with legislation related to raising the age for minors incarcerated at Rikers Island, the DREAM Act for undocumented immigrants to receive financial aid, homeless reform, and Governor Andrew Cuomo's free college tuition proposal.
The only issue he mentioned that Republicans would get in return is property tax relief, which affects Republican districts in Long Island and upstate New York, he said.
Though the State Senate has 32 elected Democrats, one Brooklyn senator, Simcha Felder, has decided to caucus with Republicans. At the start of the term, the IDC, then with seven members, announced they would form a coalition with the GOP again.
Peralta identified five conservative mainline Democrats, pointing specifically to Felder, as reasons why the Democratic conference wouldn't be able to deliver the same results.
Though Peralta was the Minority Whip under the Senate Democrats, he placed blame on the leadership for the party's failures. He said while their strategy was to "push hostile amendments so we can get press hits," he was the one pushing back.
"It was the Minority Leader and the Deputy Minority Leader," he said, referring to Yonkers Senator Andrea Stewart-Cousins and Queens Senator Michael Gianaris. "They are the ones who have the failed leadership because below them, there are no strategies. There are no ways to move forward."
Many constituents in the room didn't buy it. One community member said Peralta's district, which encompasses East Elmhurst, Jackson Heights, Corona and parts of Astoria and Woodside, is largely progressive and Democratic.
"I think there's a real feeling in this room that we didn't send you to Albany to occasionally caucus with the Democrats and caucus with the Republicans," one man said. "We sent you to be part of a team. We need you on that team."
But Peralta said if there was no coalition agreement, the Republicans could take charge and move forward with their agenda without consulting Democrats. Now that the IDC is part of the coalition, they have a say in the agenda.
Peralta said if the mainline Democrats gain more seats, particularly in Republican-leaning areas like Long Island or upstate, then he would commit to "bring the party under one umbrella."
"In two years, you'll have an opportunity to vote," Peralta said, as senators are elected every two years. "But now, keep an open mind so you can see the results brought not only to the community, but also the stances we take on behalf of our community."
While some in the room applauded, others said they will bring a primary challenge to Peralta come 2018.
"I am here to tell you that as a millennial, we are civically engaged and we will run against you," said one Elmhurst resident to thunderous applause. "I love my neighborhood. I am devastated that I have to come here and look at you siding with Republicans."
Pastor Lisa Jenkins of East Elmhurst asked Peralta if he felt "any sort of remorse" for joining the IDC without letting his constituents know in advance.
"You have done this on the down-low," she said.
Another resident told the crowd that Peralta originally didn't want to have a town hall meeting. Instead, he wanted to schedule a meeting with her and other people who disagreed with his choice in private.
"You really resisted having this town hall and I found that really discouraging. You didn't want to have a public forum," she said. "That was really shocking to me."
She also said he didn't announce the forum to the community. Constituents who demanded the meeting "were the ones promoting it," she said. Many in the audience asked for regular meetings with the senator.
Peralta committed to another one "some time in the future," possibly after the State Legislature passes a budget in April.
"Then we can see results," he said. "After the budget, we can really talk about these issues."
Outside of the Jewish Center of Jackson Heights, more than 100 people who couldn't get into the standing room-only meeting gathered outside the building. A handful were supportive of Peralta and the IDC, but a majority were upset by the senator's decision.
Behind police barricades, the two factions protested, chanted and screamed at one another for hours. Even after the town hall meeting had wrapped up, they continued to clash before Peralta left through a back door.
Jackson Heights resident Cassandra Ritas was among those stuck waiting outside. She used to work for Manhattan Senator Liz Krueger, a progressive Democrat.
Ritas said she didn't support the IDC to begin with, especially because it prevents mainline Democrats from exercising majority power.
"Peralta's notion that this is a path to a progressive agenda just seems like such misguided leadership to me," Ritas said. "To do this at this time, the first week of the Trump administration, is so disturbing."
She said President Donald Trump's policies, such as the travel ban, are damaging to vulnerable people in her neighborhood.
"We have undocumented immigrants, we have probably the second largest gay population in the city," she said. "We have a huge Muslim population."
Ritas said she's ready to vote for another candidate to replace Peralta in the next election.
"I'd love to see a female candidate. We need more progressive Dems and we need more women in the pipeline," she said. "We have to be active everyday to push for the policies we want and the candidates we want."
Not everyone was against his decision. East Elmhurst resident Norma Jimenez struck a conciliatory tone and said residents should wait and see the results.
"Now he has to deliver," she said. "He's going to have time, and think about what he'll do for us."
Ultimately, she supports his decision to join the IDC. But Jimenez felt that the meeting was an "expression of discontent," and Peralta should pay more attention to his constituents.
"If what he said is true, we have to give him the opportunity," she said. "I would like him to be more in touch with the community."


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An adult Great Pyr girl and 3 Pyr pups are coming from kill shelters in KY, and they need to get to Pyrs & Paws Rescue in NH this weekend - please help me get them there!
These four beautiful pooches have a ride from KY to Rochester, NY this Sat. 10/23 -and will overnight in Rochester... I need to move them from Rochester, NY to Pyrs & Paws in NH on Sun. 10/24. Please see below for what's needed and let me know if you can help - please provide your transport/reference info privately, even if you think I have it! This transport will be fully monitored, and permission is granted to crosspost.
OVERNIGHT IN ROCHESTER, NY AREA - FILLED, thanks Betty! (c/o Dave Lyons)
SUNDAY 10/24/10 (15 mins. added to each leg for transfers/traffic)
Leg 1: Rochester, NY to Syracuse, NY– *NEED*
START: 8:30 a.m., arrive 9:45 a.m. 89 miles, 1.25 hours
Leg 2: Syracuse, NY to Herkimer, NY– FILLED, thanks Tim!
START: 10:00 p.m., arrive 11:00 a.m. 56 miles, 1.00 hour
if you can help please email email@example.com AND firstname.lastname@example.com
Tell them you heard about the transport need from me, I'm on Cindi's email list.


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Re: Pacific Coast Rest-Stop
Posted: Sun Jul 28, 2013 4:17 pm
Thanks! I wasn't expecting that, and it was a nice surprise during this past week of craziness with the children's musical. While I liked the general premise, I honestly thought I didn't "pull it off" well. I must have done better than I thought!Shann wrote:
Congratulations Allison on placing was it 14 overall in the challenge. It was a good one.


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"My goal," Assemblywoman Diane Harkey (R-Dana Point) tells me, "is to ensure that we do not rip through the Central Valley, uprooting prime agricultural land, families, businesses, water infrastructure and a way of life for 100 miles of track just to say we started high speed rail."
Harkey is, of course, referring to the state's beleaguered fast-train project that, so far, has survived numerous bipartisan and independent challenges from local, state, and even federal officials. Yet if anyone can stop California HSR in its tracks, it's the determined Harkey, who lately has led the charge on behalf of fiscal conservatives everywhere fed up with the lunacy of high-speed rail.
With more than 30 years of banking and finance experience and an economics degree from UC Irvine, Assemblywoman Harkey, whose district stretches from southern Orange County to the San Diego County border, is no stranger to both promising projects and dangerous boondoggles. And as the vice chair of the Assembly Appropriations Committee, Harkey strives against the odds (one might say, tilts at windmills) to provide a modicum of fiscal sanity here in the state capital.
Specifically, Harkey has engineered an effort by her fellow Assembly Republicans to push for an audit of the Authority's "oversight and management of private contractors for the initial 29-mile segment between Madera and Fresno" – the so-called "route to nowhere." Earlier audits, as I've discussed in this space, found rail officials had made risky ridership assumptions, incomplete funding assessments, and cost estimates that were borderline laughable.
In a letter last month to State Auditor Elaine Howle, Harkey and company wrote that they want to ensure "that the Authority has proper policies, protocols, and resources in place to manage its contractors," preconditions they deem "critical for protecting passenger safety and controlling costs." Their letter raised dozens of questions pertaining to oversight, safety, land expropriation, and potential conflicts of interest.
"The legislature needs to remain involved," Harkey told me, "and be responsible for what is being proposed. And if we don't have accurate ridership data we [should] reassess." Referring to the seed money provided by the federal government as "cocaine for the train," Harkey says we should "either return the $3.3 billion... or use our big state influence to swap the money for other infrastructure needs."
Those needs, as North County residents well know, are abundant. "Eight billion dollars, plus two billion in match funding, or what the legislature approved last year for five years [of high-speed rail funding] with no oversight," Harkey notes, "would go a long way in San Diego, Orange County, Riverside, or anywhere to improve rail, streets, highways, bridges, and Highway 99, which is in dire need of repair in the Central Valley." Far from the pie-in-the-sky, decades-off promises of retro-futuristic railroad work, Harkey argues, "we have shovel-ready jobs now."
And sure enough, in response to the audit request letter, Auditor Howle agreed to undertake a detailed, 11-pronged review of the initial segment, including reviewing the contracts in place and determining "whether the Authority's projected costs and timelines for [the segment] are in line with the current business plan" and evaluating "how the Authority oversees, inspects, reviews, and approves the work of its contractors and assess[ing] the management controls in place to determine whether the controls are comparable to industry practices."
Amen to that. Such controls are critical to reining in a project that threatens to run off the rails.
But ultimately, when I asked Harkey whether she still aims to end the scheme or merely mend it, she demurred.
"The voters were deceived, intentionally or not," she replied. "HSR is not even a project after all these years, it is merely an idea. I am trying to ensure that if the state spends our money, uses local taxes and goes into debt for infrastructure, it is at least 'invested' on something we need and will use."
Whether or not Harkey and her entourage can bring to bear pressure on the project by exposing its serious problems sufficient to actually derail it, or whether they merely succeed in exercising appropriate oversight, fiscal conservatives owe them a serious debt of gratitude. As the issue continues to play out, keep an eye on Harkey and her tireless advocacy for sane policy.


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Chapter 7 Verse 1
How beautiful are thy feet with shoes, O prince's daughter! the
joints of thy thighs are like jewels, the work of the hands of a
cunning workman.
are either the words of the daughters of Jerusalem, who having desired the church to return unto them, in the latter part of the preceding chapter, that they might take a view of those incomparable and astonishing beauties, for which she had been commended; to which request, she complying, they now with wonder look upon her, and give those large commendations of her, which are in this and some following verses: and what seems still more to strengthen this sense of the words, Christ is spoken of in verse 5 as a distinct person, both from the person who is described, and also from the persons by whom the description is made. Though I rather think, that they are the words of Christ; who, observing his church think so meanly, and speak so modestly of herself, enters afresh upon the commendation of her beauties; to the end, that all her discouragements might be removed, her objections answered, and she be fully assured that she was as beautiful in his eyes, and as much the object of his love, as ever she was, notwithstanding her unkind treatment of him, and behavior to him. Moreover, it may be observed, that the title, which is given the church, in verse 6 does not suit well to come out of any other's mouth but Christ's, whose love peculiarly she is: nor indeed would it appear so proper to any as to Christ, to give such commendations of the church as here are given. And it is also worthy of our notice, that the order in which Christ proceeds here, in the description of the beauty of his church, is not only different from that method which she took in setting forth his glory, in chapter 5, but also from that which he himself took, when upon the same subject, in chapters 4:6, for as he there began with the hair of her head, her lips, teeth, cheeks, and temples, and so proceeded downwards; he here begins with her feet, and rises upwards: which may be, 1. To show that he takes notice of and has a value for the meanest members of his mystical body, the church; he takes notice of her feet, which, though they have the lowest place in the body, yet are not without their usefulness; "for the head cannot say to the feet, I have no need of you;" and as they are not without their usefulness, so neither are they without Christ's-notice; who has a real value, and has made provisions of grace for them, as well as for the other members of his body, and therefore appears in a garment down to the feet; which garment of his justifying righteousness, covers the feet and toes, as well as the other parts of the Body: nay, Christ not only takes notice of, and has a value for the meanest saints, but also for their meanest performances; he hears and despises not the prayers of his destitute ones: he bottles up their tears, and forgets not their labor of love towards his saints; such as visiting them when sick, feeding them when hungry, and clothing them then naked, nay, even the giving them a cup of cold water in the name of a disciple; all which he looks upon as done to himself, and will remember, and speak of them when they have forgotten, them, and at a time when they little thought to have heard of them. 2. It may be also to lead the church, together with the daughters of Jerusalem, gradually, by little and little, into the glory and beauty which she received from him; and so bring them to consider what glory and beauty he must be possessed of, from whom she received all hers; for if her feet with shoes were so beautiful, what must the other parts of her body be, which were still more gloriously adorned! and if she in all her parts was so glorious; what must he be who made her so! 3. He takes notice first of her feet, because she was now upon the return unto him after her backsliding from him, which was exceeding grateful to him: the returning prodigal was not more welcome to his father; who, seeing him afar off, ran and fell upon his neck, and kissed him; than a poor backsliding sinner is to Christ Jesus. 4. He inverts his former order and method, to show that the manifestations of his love are not always alike; he sometimes takes one way, and another and whether a believer is considered sometimes either one way or another, he is always beautiful in Christ, and in his eyes. But let us now consider the words themselves; in which may be observed,
I.The noble and excellent title which is given her; "O prince's daughter!"
II. The commendations of her; which are, 1st, Of her feet, and these are said to be "beautiful with shoes." 2dly, Of the joints of her thighs; which are said to be "as jewels, the work of the hands of a cunning workman."
I. Here is a new and noble title given to her, "O prince's daughter!" Christ finds new names and titles for his spouse; and that not only to set forth her excellency the more, but also to express the largeness of his love and affection to her; who may well be called a prince's daughter, as she is the king's daughter in Psalm 45:13, and that because she is the daughter of the King of kings, and Lord of lords: and so she is, 1. By covenant grace, which makes her so; for God has in covenant made over himself unto his people, and declared that he will be their Father, and they shall be his sons and daughters; for even thus saith the Lord Almighty: and now that same grace, which has taken them into that relation, will make it appear manifestly that they are so, by bestowing all that grace which is laid up in covenant for them, and all that glory which is there provided for them. 2. By birth, or by the grace of regeneration: the church of Christ is a prince's daughter by birth, being born again, "not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God;" the original and descent of the children of God is not base, mean and low, but high and noble: those that are born again) are born a]noqen from above, as that word may be rendered; they are born heirs to an inheritance, that is not of this world, which is fading and perishing, but to one that is incorruptible, undefiled, and which fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for them: and as they are born, so they are brought up as the sons and daughters of kings and princes; they are brought up in the king's palace; they feed at his table, and participate of all his royal dainties; their clothing shows them to be such, which is all of wrought gold; as does also their equipage and retinue: who, besides the virgins or maids of honor to wait upon them, have also a guard of angels continually to attend them. 3. By adopting grace: angels are the sons of God by creation; but saints by adoption: they are predestinated to it; and by the Spirit of God, who is the spirit of adoption, are put into the possession of it, and reap the benefits, and enjoy the comfort of it, through his witnessing with their spirits, that they are the children of God; which is such a surprising instance of God's grace, that all who share in this privilege have reason to say, with the apostle John (1 John 3:1), "Behold what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God." 4. By marriage: The church is married to Christ, the eternal Son of God; whose titles are, "The Prince of peace, and the Prince of the kings of the earth:" so that she is both a prince's daughter, and a prince's wife; and is the former, by becoming the latter; she is espoused as a chaste virgin to Christ, who is the only Son of the king eternal, immortal, invisible, the only wise God.
Moreover, the words may be rendered, "O noble, or princely daughter!"813813bydn tb puella nobilis, Castalio; principalis, nobilis & ingenua virgo, se. filia so some in Michaelis. that is, who art of a noble and princely spirit: and this is, (1.) A free spirit, in opposition to a servile one: and so the word is translated, in Psalm 51:12. "Uphold me with a free or princely spirit:" and such a spirit believers have, being freed from the servitude of sin and Satan; and being delivered from a spirit of bondage to a law of works, serve the Lord with all cheerfulness and readiness, being made a willing people in the day of his power. (2.) To be of a princely spirit, is to be of a free, noble, generous, bountiful and liberal spirit; and such a spirit saints have, not only in distributing their temporal things to the necessities of the poor, but also in communicating their spiritual things to the mutual comfort and edification of each other; so the word is rendered in Isaiah 32:5, 8.
II. Having considered the title, it will be now proper to take notice of the commendations given her: 1st, Of her feet, which are said to be beautiful with shoes. 2dly, Of the joints of her thighs, which are said to be "as jewels, the work of the hands of a cunning workman."
1st, Her feet with shoes are here commended: it is no unusual thing to describe the comeliness of women by their feet, and the ornaments of them; so Hebe is described by Homer,814814Odyss. 11. 5:602, 603. Auratos pedes Ovid. Amor. 50:3. deg. 12. as having beautiful feet; and Juno, by her golden shoes: particular care was taken of, and provision made for the shoes of queens and princesses in the eastern countries; Herodotus815815Euterpe, sive 1. 2. c. 98. relates, that the city of Anthylla was given peculiarly to the wife of the king of Egypt, to provide her with shoes: the Targum here is, purple shoes; and those of a red, scarlet or purple color, were in esteem with the Jews (Ezek. 16:10) and with the Tyrian virgins, their neighbors;816816Virginibus Tyriis mos, est, etc. Virgil. AEneid. 1. and also with the Romans,817817Vid. Persii Satyr. 5. 5:169. Virgil. Bucolic. celog. 7. 5:31. with whom likewise white shoes818818Pes malus ia nivea, etc. Ovid. de Arte Amand. 50:3. Vid. Martial. 1. 7. epigr, 27. were much in use. By these feet with shoes may be meant, either, 1. The ministers of the gospel,819819So Mercerus, Cocceius, & Not. Tigur. Vers. in loc. whose feet being shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace, are exceeding beautiful, according to Isaiah 52:7. "How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of him that bringeth good tidings, that publisheth peace," etc. These are the church's feet, which run to and fro in the world, whereby the knowledge of Christ and his gospel is increased; which was eminently true of the apostles and first ministers of the gospel, who swiftly ran over the Gentile world; and wherever they came, diffused the savor of Christ's knowledge, and were instrumental in the conversion of thousands of souls; for their sound went into all the earth; and their words unto the ends of the world. And now these feet being said to be beautiful with shoes, may denote, (1.) The promptitude and readiness of Christ's ministers to preach the gospel: as the people of Israel, having their shoes upon their feet when they eat the passover, just when they departed out of Egypt, showed their readiness for their journey; so these feet of the church, having shoes on, show the readiness of the ministers of the gospel to, preach it in every place where they are called to it, tho' in the face of the greatest opposition; "I am ready," says the apostle Paul (Rom. 1:16), "to preach the gospel to you that are at Rome also;" his feet were shod with it, and he was prepared to preach it; even where not only the seat of the empire, but the seat of persecution was, where it was the hottest and raged the most furiously; and the reason he gives is, for, says he, "I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ;" no, not in Caesar's palace: faithful ministers are ready to preach it any where, and at any time; and are "instant in season and out of season;" they preach, "not by constraint, but willingly; not for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind." (2.) It shows their intrepidity in preaching the gospel; a man that "has his feet well shod", regards not the roughness of the way, nor the sharp stones which lie in it, nor the pricking briars and thorns through which he walks: the ministers of the gospel, whose feet are well shod with it, regard no difficulties that lie in their way, so as to be discouraged by them, and desist from their work; but, with the utmost courage and magnanimity of mind, bear and surmount them; with scorn and contempt they trample upon all the briars and thorns of reproaches and scandal .that are cast upon, and persecutions which are leveled against them; none of these things move them; neither do they count their lives dear to themselves; so that they may finish their course with joy, and the ministry, which they have received of the Lord Jesus, to testify the gospel of the grace of God. (3.) It is expressive of their beauty and glory: the ministers of the gospel are not only beautiful in the eyes of those to whom they are made useful, either for conversion or consolation; but also in the eyes of Christ; especially when they faithfully discharge their work; though they run the risk of losing their credit, honor and reputation in the world, nay, their lives also. Or else, 2. By these feet, may be meant the affections of the church towards Christ;820820So Sanctius in loc. which are that unto the soul, as feet are to the body; these carry it up and down, hither and thither, at pleasure: and being said to be beautiful with shoes, show that they moved in an orderly way; constrained her to turn her feel to his testimonies, and enlarged her heart to run the way of his commandments; which made them appear exceeding beautiful to him, so that his heart was ravished with them; see chapter 4:9,10, the eyes of Holofernes are said to be ravished with the sandals upon Judith's feet, which she had put on, on purpose to deceive persons (see Judith 10:4, 16:11), and this shows it to be the custom of women to adorn their shoes or sandals, that they might enamor their lovers; to which custom perhaps the allusion is here made. Or else, 3. By them may be meant the actings of faith on Christ, in saints coming to him and walking on in him, as they have received him: as faith is the eye of the soul, which sees Christ, and the hand which receives him, so it is likewise the foot which goes to him and walks in him; and nothing is more pleasant and delightful to Christ, than for souls to come unto him, and venture their all upon him, in expectation of receiving life and salvation, righteousness and strength, peace and comfort, grace and glory, all from him and through him; for such he willingly receives, and has promised never to reject: and as their first coming, so their continued walking in him. by fresh repeated acts of faith, is well pleasing to him; these feet are beautiful with shoes. Though, 4. By them may be meant, the outward conversation of the saints;821821So Durham and Ainsworth in loc. which is frequently expressed in scripture, by walking in the ways, commands and ordinances of Christ (see Luke 1:6; Eph. 4:17; Col. 4:5), which may be said to be beautiful with shoes, (1.) When they appear to be ready to every good work; who, no sooner are enlightened into an ordinance, or called to a duty, but they readily comply with it, being beforehand furnished and prepared for it, having their shoes upon their feet, in a posture of readiness, to do it. (2.) When the conversation is so ordered, as that the shame of our nakedness does not appear to the eyes of the world: To walk barefoot, was accounted shameful (see Isa. 20:4), and so it is to have an ill-ordered conversation: but a well-ordered conversation is like shoes to the feet, which cover them, so that the shame thereof does not appear. (3.) When it is conformed to God's law; which is "a lamp unto the feet, and a light to the path." (4.) When it is becoming Christ's gospel. (5.) When it is guarded against the reproaches and offenses of the world: as shoes upon the feet keep off the thorns and briars from pricking; so does a good conversation,, in some measure, keep off the reproaches of the world, or at least keep from being disturbed at them; for great peace have they which love God's law, and nothing shall offend them: and though it does not afford yet a believer, whose conversation is becoming the gospel, may say, as Samuel did, chapter 12:3, "Whose ox have I taken? Whose ass have I taken? Whom have I defrauded?" so that hereby he is fenced and guarded against the world's calumnies and contempt. (6.) Then is it so, when there is such a luster in it as cannot but be seen by, and is conspicuous to all beholders; which raises their admiration, and gives them occasion of glorifying God (see Matthew 5:16), and this, as it is commendable among men, so it is beautiful in the eyes of Christ; for so such who order their conversations aright, that is, whose feet are beautiful with shoes, will he show the salvation of God.
2dly, "The joints of her thighs" are said to be "as jewels, the work of the hands of a cunning workman." By which may be meant, either, 1. Some ornaments of gold, silver, or precious stones, which were used to be worn about the legs or feet by women in those times; which was a custom not only used among the heathens,822822Vid: Plin. 1. 9. c. 35. & 50:33. c. 3, 12. but also among the Jews, as is manifest from Isaiah 3:18, where among the rest of the attire of the Jewish women. "The bravery of their tinkling ornaments about their feet" is mentioned; and so may be expressive of the greater glory, luster, and beauty of the church's conversation. Or, 2. The garments which covered the thighs;823823So R. Aben Ezra, Sanctius, and Bishop Patrick in loc. for it is not agreeable to the rules of decency and modesty to describe the naked thighs: the word824824dykdy yqwmj ambitus feaeorum, Buxtorg Mercer. Junius. signifies "the compassing of the thighs;" which does not intend the ambient flesh, or the thickness of it about them, as R. David Kimchi825825In lib. shoran, rad. qmh supposes; but rather, the femoralia, or garments about the thighs, which encompassed and covered them; by which may be meant, "the garments of salvation, and robe of Christ's righteousness," whereby the persons of God's elect are covered, so that "the shame of their nakedness" does not appear; and with which they are as richly adorned, as the bridegroom is with his ornaments, and the bride with her jewels, on their marriage-day. Moreover, this is not the bungling work of a creature, but "the work of the hands of a cunning workman;" even of one that is God as well as man, and therefore is called the righteousness of God. Or, 3. The girdle about the loins, according to some,826826So Junius and Cocceius in loc. which was wont to be worn in those times: thighs being put for loins, as in Genesis 46:26 and may intend that girdle of truth with which the loins of believers are girt, and is joined with "the preparation of the gospel of peace," with which their feet are shod, in Ephesians 6:14,15, which metaphor is frequently made use of, when a gospel-con-versation is directed and exhorted to (see Luke 12:35; 1 Peter 1:13). Or, 4. By these "joints of the thighs," may be meant young converts: The Targum expounds it of the children which sprung from the thighs or loins of the people of Israel (see Gen. 46:26; Ex. 1:5; Judg. 8:30), where this phrase, "to come out of the loins," or, as it is in the Hebrew text, "the thighs," is expressive of generation; and therefore these words, in a mystical and spiritual sense, may have reference to those many souls that are born again in the church; who are as jewels in Christ's esteem; and are the curious workmanship of the blessed Spirit, "created in Christ Jesus unto good works." Or else, 5. By these "joints or turnings of the thighs,"827827Vertebrae, Pagninus, Montanus, Vatablus; signat illam agilem versatilem juncturam, qua capit in suis foraminibus expedite moventur, Brightman. by which they move orderly and regularly, may be meant the principles of a believer's walk and conversation, as one828828Durham in loc. well observes, without which it is little worth, nor can it be ordered aright; for principles denominate actions to be either good or evil. Now the principles of grace, from whence a believer acts in his conversation, and by which he moves in his Christian walk, are as valuable and as precious as jewels; and are wrought by no less a hand than the Spirit of God, who "worketh in them both to will and to do of his good pleasure."
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1852 $1 MS65 Certification #28528025, PCGS #6940
Expert Comments
Q. David BowersThe following narrative, with minor editing, is from my "Silver Dollars & Trade Dollars of the United States: A Complete Encyclopedia" (Wolfeboro, NH: Bowers and Merena Galleries, Inc., 1993).
Coinage Context
Low mintage: The price of silver continued to be high in 1852. The Mint struck a very limited quantity of silver dollars for this reason and also because for dollar coinage the Treasury much preferred the gold dollar. Most domestic transactions requiring this value were taken care of by gold dollars, which had been minted since 1849 and which were becoming popular in circulation. In the year 1852 the production of gold dollars at the Philadelphia Mint alone amounted to 2,045,351 coins. It is not known if the 1852 silver dollars were coined for depositors or for the account of the government. (R.W.Julian, letter to the author, March 10, 1992.)
Numismatic Information
Circulated grades: As is the case with circulated 1851 dollars, specimens of the 1852 were taken from circulation in the nineteenth century, when the date was already recognized as being scarce and valuable in any grade.
Today, the 1852 is a classic rarity. When specimens in such grades as VF and EF come on the market they furnish an opportunity for numismatists to acquire an example without having to pay the going rate for a higher level coin such as a Mint State or Proof example.
Mint State grades: Mint State coins seen by me have satiny, lustrous surfaces with minute die striations. Perhaps the Mint saved a few of these for trading purposes at the time of issue. In high grades the 1852 seems to be slightly rarer than the 1851, but the population is so small that no unequivocal conclusions can be drawn. I graded the Norweb Collection coin (Lot 3799) as MS-65, prooflike.
Estimates of the rarity of certain die combinations of originals versus restrikes is guesswork at this point. With the exception of Walter H. Breen's studies, virtually no one has examined the situation in detail; auction and sale catalogues are not useful as a source for information, etc. More than for any other date in the Liberty Seated series dated in the 1850s, research remains to be done on the 1852.
Unlike restrikes of the 1851 Proof dollar, which are usually referred to as restrikes in catalogues, restrikes of the 1852 dollar have not been studied as closely, are from the same obverse die as originals, and are usually catalogued simply as 1852 Proofs, without mention of original or restrike status.
Restrike impressions were made in silver (usually seen) and copper (exceedingly rare).
Several reverse varieties of restrikes are known, including the reverse of 1840-1850 with two minute points on the right slanting edge of the final A. Another reverse is that used on 1858-1859 Proofs and is seen on silver strikes as well as the rare copper restrikes. This may indicate restriking on multiple occasions. See description of varieties below.
Circulation strikes:
1. Normal Date: Breen-5447. One obverse and three reverse dies were made. Circulation strikes, most often seen in grades of EF to AU, are from only one reverse die. Walter H. Breen describes it: "Earlier impressions show many nearly horizontal and fewer slanting die file marks within the reverse white stripes of shield; later strikings (after die repolish?) show none of these, only one minute spur from right edge of rightmost (sixth) pale gules or 'red' stripe." The typical original shows numerous vertical shield stripe elements extending above and into the horizontal stripes, and below and through the outside of the shield border; this is very distinctive.
Description of the Floyd T. Starr Collection:595 (Stack's, October 1992): Obverse: Die striae on obverse oriented in a direction parallel to the top of Miss Liberty's left leg. "Beard" on Liberty's chin. "Raindrop" circular ring dot on Miss Liberty's left forearm. Reverse: Shield lines as described above; first five vertical white spaces have considerable prooflike area, sixth has some prooflike area, seventh has none. Diagonal die striae extending at about a 45° angle from upper left to lower right.
Dies prepared: Obverse: 1; Reverse: Several (under study).
Circulation strike mintage: 1,100; Delivery figures by month: August: 1,100.
Estimated quantity melted: Unknown
Characteristics of striking: Usually sharp except for weakness at several stars to the right, especially 9 through 13.
Known hoards of Mint State coins: None
This is the second rarest Philadelphia silver dollar and follows closely on the heels of the rare 1851.
Additional Information
A View of the 1852 Dollar
The Coin and Stamp Journal, April 1876, printed the following price history as part of an article titled "Rare American Coins":
"DOLLAR OF 1852. Number of pieces coined: 1,100. "The first we find catalogued, sold in the [Mortimer Livingston] MacKensie sale, June 23, 1869 [conducted by Edward Cogan], for $40. Described: '1852; brilliant Proof dollar; scarce and very desirable for a cabinet.'
"Another at the [William A.] Fewsmith sale [conducted by Ebenezer Locke Mason, October 1870] brought $25.
"At [Emil] Cauffman's sale, May, 1871 [conducted by Edward Cogan], the price obtained was $22. Described: 'Beautiful Proof; very desirable.'
'Jewett sale, Jan., 1874 [conducted by Edward Cogan]; price received, $41. Described: 'Beautiful Proof; very desirable.'"
Christian Gobrecht
38.10 millimeters
26.73 grams
90% Silver, 10% Copper
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After finding it increasingly frustrating battling with Barca's inability to handle HTML in it's full glory (and various other shortcomings) I have reluctantly decided to switch to Thunderbird, not least for it's easy handling of encryption !
However ... I have encountered yet another short fall in Barca and would be obliged if anyone can explain to me how I can successfully export my data and settings in a compatible format for Thunderbird. The 3 Folder export options in Barca don't seem to be able to deliver the data in a format that THunderbird can read... it's only options are : Eudora, Outlook or Outlook Express.
Therefore, does anyone know how to achieve this exercise ???
Many thanks.


text: WASHINGTON -- More than 5,300 Air Force youngsters have signed up for FitFactor, a fitness and health initiative that rewards youth for their efforts to stay healthy (see photo at left of Jennifer Hightower at the Fort MacArthur parade grounds during the Los Angeles Air Force Base Youth Center's field day in support of FitFactor. Photo by Paul Testerman.). Each day, participants log onto the FitFactor Web site and document their healthy choices. The number of points earned depends on the activity. Drinking eight ounces of water earns five points, while yard work nets 25. A game of baseball garners 75 points. Prizes for participation range from pins to silicon bracelets to T-shirts and jump ropes. Air Force family members between the ages of 9 and 18 can sign up by visiting their local Air Force Services youth center and registering on the FitFactor Web site.


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Uh-oh! Could there be a feud brewing between Justin Bieber and James Franco?
The 127 Hours star recently posted a video on his WhoSay page that showed him lip-synching the teen sensation's hit single "Boyfriend" while wearing a crooked baseball cap over very Biebs-esque bangs and frolicking through a house with Ashley Benson, his Spring Breakers costar and maybe-girlfriend.
However, the video disappeared not long after it went up.
U.S. & World
Watch the R.E.M. video directed by Franco and starring Lindsay Lohan
"I was asked to take it down by some people," Franco explained to me yesterday at the Sundance Film Festival, where he's been promoting three movies, Interior. Leather Bar., Kink and Lovelace. "Bieber didn't contact me, but I don't think he was too happy."
Offending Bieber wasn't his goal. "I wasn't trying to diss him," he said.
Well, maybe he didn't. A source insists the singer has never seen the Franco video.
Bieber's a joker too, drops trou on the red carpet. Check out his moon shot
Bieber certainly isn't the first pop star to get the James Franco treatment.
In fact, Franco posted a short video of himself pseudo-singing Selena Gomez's "Love You Like a Love Song," during the making of Spring Breakers (Gomez is also in the Harmony Korine-directed indie, out in March).
Gomez praised Franco's send-up of her song. "I loved it," she told me not long after the video went viral. "It was so good."
That's not all we have from Franco. Make sure to come back here later on to find out what he has to say about his sex-filled Sundance films.
Now we want to hear from you! Which music superstar would you like to see Franco have some fun with? Leave your suggestions below.


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|Bergenia cordifolia in bloom
|Oxalis crassipes just starting to bloom
|Oxalis 'Sunset Velvet' (I think)
|Hebe 'Pink Elephant'
I had the most difficult time getting this plant established but now, it's finally growing and happy!
|The yellow flowers of Leopard's Bane or Doronicum orientale are not my favorite
but it blooms faithfully this time of year so I let it be.
|I bought this Helichrysum (Strawflower) on sale last summer.
It wintered over in a hanging basket and is blooming. Cool, huh?
|The flowers of Evergreen Huckleberry (Vaccinum ovatum) are about to open.
The bumblebees love them.
|I've got a Vinca minor plant in a hanging container. It's blooming.
|Finally, a photo of Disco, my youngest daughter's