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[EDITOR'S NOTE: Part I of this two-part series appeared in the August issue. Part II follows below and continues, without introductory comments, where the first article ended.]
According to Genesis 6:5, God "...saw that the wickedness of man was great...," and declared His intent to destroy the Earth by water as a result of man's willful rebellion. Approximately a century before the Flood, God chose to reveal and explain to a single human being, Noah, His decision. God then instructed Noah to make the necessary preparations for the coming judgment by building an ark that would serve as the instrument of salvation not only for his own family, but also for the seed of all land-living, air-breathing creatures. Alfred Rehwinkel has observed: "The word 'ark' seems to be derived from the Egyptian language and signifies 'chest' or something to float. The word occurs only twice in the Bible, here for the ark of Noah and again in Ex. 2:3-5 for the ark of bulrushes in which the infant Moses was saved from the cruel decree of Pharaoh" (1951, p. 58).
A fundamental question that must be asked in the biblical context is this: If the Flood was merely a local inundation limited to the known Mesopotamian region of that day, why would God have instructed Noah to build such an ark in the first place? Whitcomb has suggested that:
...there would have been no need for an Ark at all if the flood was local in extent. The whole procedure of constructing such a vessel, involving over 100 years of planning and toiling, simply to escape a local flood can hardly be described as anything but utterly foolish and unnecessary! How much more sensible it would have been for God simply to have warned Noah of the coming destruction in plenty of time for him to move to an area that would not have been affected by the Flood, even as Lot was taken out of Sodom before the fire fell from heaven. Not only so, but also the great numbers of animals of all kinds, and certainly the birds, could easily have moved out of the danger zone also, without having to be stored in a barge for an entire year! The Biblical record simply cannot be harmonized with the concept of a flood that was confined to the Near East (1973, p. 47, emp. in orig.).
This is a point that almost all advocates of the local Flood theory either seem to have missed or ignored. Speaking as co-authors of the classic volume, The Genesis Flood, Whitcomb and Morris opined: "The writers have had a difficult time finding local-Flood advocates that are willing to face the implications of this particular argument" (1961, p. 11). It is easy to understand why.
In attempting to support the concept of a local Flood, while simultaneously trying to provide a logical solution to why Noah would have been instructed by God to build an ark in the first place, Arthur C. Custance went so far as to suggest that the entire ark-building episode was merely an "object lesson" to the antediluvians. He wrote:
It would require real energy and faith to follow Noah's example and build other Arks, but it would have required neither of these to pack up a few things and migrate. There is nothing Noah could have done to stop them except disappearing very secretly. Such a departure could hardly act as the kind of warning that the deliberate construction of the Ark could have done. And the inspiration for this undertaking was given to Noah by leaving him in ignorance of the exact limits of the Flood. He was assured that all mankind would be destroyed, and probably supposed that the Flood would therefore be universal. This supposition may have been quite essential for him (1958, p. 18).
Responding to this suggestion by Custance, Whitcomb and Morris asked:
But how can one read the Flood account of Genesis 6-8 with close attention and then arrive at the conclusion that the Ark was built merely to warn the ungodly, and not mainly to save the occupants of the Ark from death by drowning? And how can we exonerate God Himself from the charge of deception, if we say that He led Noah to believe that the Flood would be universal, in order to encourage him to work on the Ark, when He knew all the time that it would not be universal? (1961, p. 12, emp. in orig.).
In addressing this same point, Van Bebber and Taylor wrote that it would be strange indeed for God to require Noah to spend approximately 100 years of his life
...building a huge boat to save representative animals which really didn't need to be saved. Most, if not all, of these animals were alive and well in other parts of the world. Dry land was just over the horizon all along. Despite the lack of necessity, God kept Noah trapped in this boat full of animals under these strange circumstances for over a year!... If only those animals in a specific geographic region died, it would have been unnecessary to protect pairs in the Ark for the express purpose of preventing their extinction. Surely there would be representatives of their kinds in other areas. If, on the other hand, there had been some unique kinds in the path of a local flood, then it would seem more logical to send representative pairs out of the area, rather than to the Ark, as God did. Certainly the birds could have flown to the safety of dry land. If the Flood had been local, God could also have simply sent Noah and family out of the area (1996, pp. 56-58).
Further, consider that Genesis 7:21-23 plainly states:
All flesh died that moved upon the earth, both birds, and cattle, and beasts, and every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth, and every man: all in whose nostrils was the breath of life, of all that was on the dry ground, died. And every living thing was destroyed that was upon the face of the ground, both man, and cattle, and creeping things, and birds of the heavens; and they were destroyed from the earth.
Once again, Whitcomb and Morris have sought to remind local Flood advocates:
These are exactly the same terms used in the first chapter of Genesis to describe the various kinds of land animals which God created.... The fact of the matter is that no clearer terms could have been employed by the author than those which he did employ to express the idea of the totality of air-breathing animals in the world. Once this point is conceded, all controversy as to the geographical extent of the Deluge must end; for no one would care to maintain that all land animals were confined to the Mesopotamian Valley in the days of Noah! (1961, p. 13, emp. in orig.).
One final point needs to be mentioned. Some today are fervent in their insistence that the ark has been found on top of the 17,000-foot-high Mt. Ararat in Turkey. Among that number is John Warwick Montgomery (1972). Dr. Montgomery, however, is an ardent proponent of the local Flood theory. How can a man claim to accept biblical and/or scientific evidence that he feels would point to the remains of Noah's ark being on the top of Mt. Ararat in Turkey, and then deny the biblical testimony to the global Flood that put it there? Does Montgomery understand what he is asking us to believe? To claim that the remains of the ark are on top of the 17,000-foot-high Mt. Ararat, while at the same time insisting that it was put there by a local flood, is to strain at the gnat and swallow the camel. [NOTE: I do not accept Montgomery's claim that the ark can be proven to be on Ararat, but that is beyond the scope of this present discussion. See Major, 1994.]
God told Noah to make "the length of the ark three hundred cubits, the breadth of it fifty cubits, and the height of it thirty cubits" (Genesis 6:15). If we are to understand the size of the ark, we first must understand the length of the cubit. "The Babylonians had a 'royal' cubit of about 19.8 inches, the Egyptians had a longer and a shorter cubit of about 20.65 and 17.6 inches respectively, while the Hebrews apparently had a long cubit of 20.4 inches (Ezek. 40:5) and a common cubit of about 17.5 inches" (Whitcomb and Morris, 1961, p. 10). Rehwinkel has observed:
It is generally supposed that the cubit is the distance from the point of the elbow to the tip of the middle finger. Translated into our own standard of measurements, the common cubit is estimated at about 18 inches. But Petrie, a noted Egyptologist, is of the opinion that it measured 22½ inches. Whether or not Noah's cubit was comparable to any one of the cubits now known to us, no one is able to determine.... But accepting the lower figures and placing the cubit at eighteen inches and then again at twenty-four inches, we get the following results: According to the lower standard, the ark would have measured 450 feet in length, seventy-five feet in width, and forty-five feet in height. According to the higher figure, the length would have been six hundred feet; the width, one hundred feet; the height, sixty feet.... The ships of the maritime nations of the world never approached the dimensions of the ark until about a half century ago (1951, pp. 59,60).
Using a conservative cubit of 17½ inches, the ark would have been 437.5 feet long, 72.92 feet wide, and 43.75 feet high. In its three decks (Genesis 6:16), it had a total deck area of approximately 95,700 square feet—the equivalent of slightly more than twenty basketball courts. Its total volume would have been 1,396,000 cubic feet. The gross tonnage (measurement of cubic space rather than weight, one ton being equivalent to 100 cubic feet of usable storage space) was about 13,960 tons (see Whitcomb and Morris, 1961, p. 10).
Critics of the Flood account have argued that the ark simply was not large enough to handle its assigned cargo. Such critics, however, generally have not taken into consideration exactly how large the ark really was, or the cargo it had to carry. As Whitcomb has pointed out:
For the sake of realism, imagine waiting at a railroad crossing while ten freight trains, each pulling 52 boxcars, move slowly by, one after another. That is how much space was available in the Ark, for its capacity was equivalent to 520 modern railroad stock cars. A barge of such gigantic size, with its thousands of built-in compartments (Gen. 6:14) would have been sufficiently large to carry two of every species of air-breathing animal in the world today (and doubtless the tendency toward taxonomic splitting has produced more "species" than can be justified in terms of Genesis "kinds") on only half of its available deck space. The remaining space would have been occupied by Noah's family, five additional representatives of each of the comparatively few kinds of animals acceptable for sacrifice, two each of the kinds that have become extinct since the Flood, and food for them all (Gen. 6:21) [1973, p. 23, emp. in orig.].
Whitcomb and Morris have given extensive investigation to the numbers of animals that would have been on the ark (using highest possible estimates, and taxonomic figures provided by evolutionists), and have shown that the biblical account can fit known scientific facts regarding these matters (1961, pp. 65-69). John Woodmorappe has expanded on their work and provided an extensive, well-researched feasibility study dealing specifically with the ark's construction and contents (1996). Some, however, have stated that an examination of such facts amounts to nothing more than "mental gymnastics" (Clayton, 1980, p. 8). This we deny. It is not "mental gymnastics" to examine the physical structure and size of the ark given by the Bible itself, as compared to known scientific facts regarding the animal kingdom.
It was not just inspired writers of the Bible who provided information on the extent, nature, and importance of the Genesis Flood. The Lord Himself addressed the topic of the Great Flood in Luke 17:26-30 (cf. Matthew 24:39) when He drew the following parallel:
And as it came to pass in the days of Noah, even so shall it be also in the days of the Son of man. They ate, they drank, they married, they were given in marriage, until the day that Noah entered into the ark, and the flood came, and destroyed them all. Likewise even as it came to pass in the days of Lot; they ate, they drank, they bought, they sold, they planted, they builded; but in the day that Lot went out from Sodom it rained fire and brimstone from heaven, and destroyed them all: after the same manner shall it be in the day that the Son of man is revealed (emp. added).
The Lord depicted an impending doom that was to befall the Jews of His day who would not heed the Word of God. For the purpose of this article, however, note the context in which Jesus discussed the Flood destruction of Genesis 6-8. He placed the Flood alongside the destruction of Sodom, and He also placed it alongside the destruction of the ungodly at His Second Coming. Whitcomb has remarked:
This fact is of tremendous significance in helping us to determine the sense in which the word "all" is used in reference to those who were destroyed by the Flood. Our argument proceeds in the following manner: the force of Christ's warning to the ungodly concerning the doom which awaits them at the time of His Second Coming, by reminding them of the destruction of the Sodomites, would be immeasurably weakened if we knew that some of the Sodomites, after all, had escaped. This would allow hope for the ungodly that some of them might escape the wrath of God in that coming day of judgment. But we have, indeed, no reason for thinking that any Sodomite did escape destruction when the fire fell from heaven. In exactly the same man- ner, Christ's warning to future generations, on the basis of what happened to the ungodly in the days of Noah, would have been pointless if part of the human race had escaped the judgment waters.... Therefore we are persuaded that Christ's use of the word "all" in Luke 17:27 must be understood in the absolute sense; other- wise the analogies would collapse and the warnings would lose their force. A heavy burden of proof rests upon those who would maintain that only a part of the human race was destroyed in the Flood, in view of the clear statements of the Lord Jesus Christ (1973, pp. 21-22. emp. in orig.).
A point that often is overlooked by local Flood advocates is the rainbow covenant that God gave (Genesis 9:11-15). Three times (Genesis 8:21; 9:11,15) God promised never again to allow "everything living" to be destroyed by a flood. He set a rainbow in the heavens as a sign of that promise. If the Flood of Genesis 6-8 was merely a local event, then it is obvious to even the casual observer that God has broken His covenant repeatedly, since there have been countless local floods upon the face of the Earth in which multiplied thousands of people have perished. If the Genesis Flood was local, but God promised never again to allow another (local) flood, then why have local floods continued?
Advocates of the local flood idea have invented a theory that places God in the untenable position of breaking His promise, in spite of plain statements of Scripture which state that God "cannot lie" (Titus 1:2). S.J. Schultz stated:
Had any part of the human race survived the flood outside of Noah and his family they would not have been included in the covenant God made here. The implication seems to be that all mankind descended from Noah so that the covenant with its bow in the cloud as a reminder would be for all mankind (1955, p. 52).
The account of the Great Flood in Genesis 6-8 entails the overruling power of an Almighty God in what undoubtedly were supernatural (i.e., miraculous) events. Critics of the account, however, have objected to the introduction of the miraculous. Byron Nelson, in his classic text, The Deluge Story in Stone, called attention to this fact when he wrote:
What is called "modern" geology has eclipsed Flood geology because of a dislike for those supernatural elements which are the backbone of Christianity. The Flood theory of geology has not been abandoned because it does not satisfy actual geological conditions. There is nothing known about the earth's geological state today which makes the Deluge theory any less satisfactory an explanation of the fossiliferous strata than in the days when the leading scholars of the world accepted it. Rather the contrary—there are facts known now about the geological conditions of the earth remarkably supporting the Flood theory which Williams, Catcott, Harris and others never dreamed of. It is a disregard for God and the sacred record of his acts, and nothing else, which has caused the discard of the Flood theory to take place (1931, p. 137).
Theologian Bernard Ramm provides the perfect example of the "disregard for God and the sacred record of his acts" of which Nelson wrote. Ramm sneered: "If one wishes to retain a universal flood, it must be understood that a series of stupendous miracles is required. Further, one cannot beg off with pious statements that God can do anything" (1954, p. 165). Consistency, of course, is not the norm for those who defend error. The same Bernard Ramm who made the above statement militating against miracles also argued for miracles as an inherent part of the Bible when he said: "The miracles are not warts or growths that may be shaved or cut off, leaving the main body of the gospel record untouched" (1953, p. 174). So which is it? Is the miraculous to be accepted, or not? Apparently Ramm and his cohorts wish to answer in the affirmative in regard to certain portions of the Bible, but in the negative in regard to others—so long as they are are the ones allowed to pick and choose.
What does Dr. Ramm mean when he says that "one cannot beg off with pious statements that God can do anything"? God can do anything that is not inconsistent with His own nature. And He does not need Bernard Ramm, or others like him, to tell Him what He can or cannot do. God made it clear in these chapters that He was in complete control. From the bringing of the animals to Noah (Genesis 6:19-20), to the shutting of the door of the ark (Genesis 7:16), it was a miraculous situation from beginning to end. As Whitcomb and Morris have observed: "The simple fact of the matter is that one cannot have any kind of a Genesis Flood without acknowledging the presence of supernatural powers" (1961, p. 76). Furthermore, many of those who try to minimize the miraculous eventually end up returning to it anyway. Dr. Ramm, for example, was forced to admit that the animals coming to Noah were "prompted by divine instinct" [i.e., a miracle] (1954, p. 169).
God miraculously superintended the entire Flood process, and Bible believers should not be ashamed to admit it. Whitcomb has listed at least six areas in which supernaturalism is required in the context of the Genesis Flood: (1) divinely-revealed design of the ark; (2) gathering and care of the animals; (3) uplift of oceanic waters from beneath; (4) release of waters from above; (5) formation of our present ocean basins; and (6) formation of our present continents and mountain ranges (1973, p. 19). There may be other areas where the presence of supernaturalism is required, but the fact remains that certain aspects of the Flood record cannot be accounted for on the basis of purely natural processes.
Nevertheless, it is not necessary to appeal to an "endless supplying of miracles to make a universal flood feasible," as Ramm has suggested somewhat satirically. Whitcomb noted: "Apart from the specific miracles mentioned in the Scripture which were necessary to begin and to terminate this period of global judgment, the flood accomplished its work of destruction by purely natural processes that are capable of being studied to a certain extent in hydraulic laboratories and in local flood situations today" (1973, p. 67). The fact of the matter is that both natural and supernatural phenomena worked side—by-side during the Flood. It did not require an "endless supplying of miracles."
It has not been the main thrust of this article to present scientific evidence that supports the concept of a global Flood. As I said earlier, since it is the biblical Flood under discussion, the truthfulness of the Genesis record dealing with the Flood must be determined by an appeal to the Bible. However, there is ample scientific evidence available to indicate the presence of a global Flood in the distant past. In fact, entire volumes have been written documenting such evidence.
The classic volume The Genesis Flood, although now somewhat dated, is a good beginning point for such material. John Whitcomb's two sequels, The World That Perished and The Early Earth, contain valuable additional material, and responses to critics. Harold Clark also has written a book dealing with such matters (Fossils, Flood and Fire). Similar books (The Flood, by Rehwinkel; Speak Through the Earthquake, Wind & Fire, by Fisher; Grand Canyon: Monument to Catastrophe, by Austin) are readily available, and speak to the fact of the cumulative amount of scientific evidence that supports the concept of the Genesis Flood.
However, I believe a word of caution is in order. In the past, extremes have been documented from those on both sides of the issue. Some have made indefensible statements like "...There is no way geologically of supporting the idea that there was a worldwide flood..." (Clayton, 1969). On the other hand, some have interpreted almost every shred of evidence as supporting a global Flood, even going so far as to identify a particular layer within the geologic column as the Flood layer—a posture that, in the end, proved extremely inadvisable (as well as embarrassing).
Both extremes should be avoided. Biblical evidence establishes the fact that there was a universal Flood. Knowing that, we then may be alert to evidence from science that possibly provides support for the Flood model. At the same time, however, we must realize that it is not always an easy task to interpret such evidence, for none among us has experienced or witnessed a global Flood. As Austin has warned: "The worldwide Flood recounted in Genesis has no parallel in today's world" (1994, p. 192). Oard offered a further assessment when he wrote: "Small-scale local floods may not compare well with such a gigantic catastrophe as a worldwide Flood" (1997, p. 3). Therefore, whatever measurements we make must, by necessity, be made on a much smaller scale (e.g., using local flood information, etc.). This being the case, it behooves us to use great care, for we do not want to abuse, misuse, or overextrapolate the evidence from science.
Critics of what generally is referred to as "Flood geology" have been quick to point out what they view as flaws in the system that attempts to interpret Earth history in light of the global catastrophe of Genesis 6-8. Certainly, I know of none among us who would advocate that there are no difficulties with respect to the Flood theory of geology. Even those who are at the forefront in writing and speaking on these topics (e.g., Henry Morris, John Whitcomb, Steven Austin, John Woodmorappe, Walter Brown, John Morris, and others) are quick to admit that they do not have all the answers.
At the same time, however, neither should we be intimidated by, nor fall prey to, the false, unbiblical concept of evolutionary uniformitarianism. Truth be told, attempts to avoid any possible interpretation of Earth history via Flood geology, and to harmonize interpretations of Earth history via strictly natural processes, present more problems than they solve. As Cockburn stated the matter: "No man departs from the Flood theory upon pretense of avoiding any absurdity therein supposed, but that he ran himself upon the necessity of believing greater absurdities than any he pretended to avoid" (1750, p. 163).
While there may be some difficulty coming to a full and complete scientific, after-the-fact understanding of the geology associated with a global Flood, the arguments for a local flood (whether allegedly based on biblical exegesis or on modern science) are unconvincing—and more important, wrong. There are, however, overwhelming arguments in favor of a universal deluge. Henry Morris, for example, in The Remarkable Birth of Planet Earth, has suggested 96 arguments (64 biblical, 32 non-biblical) that support the idea of a worldwide Flood (1972, pp. 96-100). While one may not agree with every single argument, it quickly will become apparent that it is impossible to dispose of each of the arguments in a nonchalant manner.
For example, vast animal graveyards and fossiliferous rubble shifts have been found worldwide. Evidence of a great, sudden, and recent watery cataclysm—followed by a deep freeze across the entire great north, accompanied by titanic hydraulic forces and crustal upheavals burying a host of elephants and other great beasts in a region that now is almost totally devoid of vegetation—has been documented. Vast numbers of fossil trees and plants, standing erect, oblique and even inverted while piercing through successive beds of water-laid stone (i.e., polystrate fossils) have been discovered.
Vast and numerous rifts, fissures, and lava beds have been discovered, scarring the world ocean floor and bespeaking some gigantic submarine upheaval of the Earth's crust (as in the breaking up of the "fountains of the deep"). Geologic evidence suggests that most, if not all, of the world's mountains have been under water at some point in the past—a conclusion demanded by the existence of sedimentary deposits and marine fossils at or near their summits. Much of the Earth's crust is composed of sedimentary rocks (shales, limestones, sandstones, etc.) that generally are known to form under water.
Worldwide fossilization has occurred in vast quantities, including fossils of even many modern forms of life. These fossils are found in sedimentary strata, often at great depths and under great pressure. Yet as Morris has observed: "Fossils, however, normally require very rapid burial and compaction to be preserved at all. Thus every sedimentary formation appears to have been formed rapidly—even catastrophically—and more and more present-day geologists are returning to this point of view" (1998, p. b). While it is not creationists' intention to suggest that every instance of rapid burial and fossilization or mass destruction is attributable directly and specifically to the Great Flood, many may well be.
In addressing the well-known geologic column, Dr. Morris commented:
It is also significant that the types of rocks, the vast extent of specific sedimentary rock formations, the minerals and metals, coal and oil found in the rocks, the various types of structures (i.e., faults, folds, thrusts, etc.), sedimentary rocks grossly deformed while still soft from recent deposition, and numerous other features seem to occur indiscriminately throughout the various "ages" supposedly represented in the column. To all outward appearances, therefore, they were formed in essentially the same brief time period (1998, pp. b-c).
Sedimentary fossil "graveyards" have been found worldwide in rocks of all "ages." Various rock types (granite, shale, limestone, etc.) are found in all parts of the geologic column, and there exists a general disorder in the fossil record, which would be expected if a global Flood occurred.
The temptation undoubtedly exists, especially in today's climate of extreme scientific prowess, to exalt science above Scripture. Such a stance, while obviously to be expected of those who do not profess a belief in either God or His Word, simply is not an option for the person who accepts the truthfulness and inspiration of the Bible. John Morris addressed this particular temptation, and what happens when Bible believers fall prey to it, when he wrote:
Unfortunately, many others now have begun to judge Scripture's accuracy by its agreement with scientific dogma, and then to distort Scripture until the two seem to agree. In doing so, scientific opinions of some scientists are elevated to a level they don't deserve, and Scripture suffers.
If such a method of interpreting Scripture is followed throughout, other doctrines will fall also. After all, miracles are "scientifically" impossible. Scientists know that virgins don't give birth, men don't walk on water, and bodies don't rise from the dead. One may gain scientific credibility among the secularists by twisting Scripture to fit science, but it would be better to honor God by believing His word (1998, p. d).
Let us openly and fairly examine the biblical and scientific evidence that supports the Genesis Flood, and simultaneously urge others to do likewise. Let us be cautious as good students, but never willing to compromise inspired testimony. Indeed, "the main concern, as always, should be what do the Scriptures teach" (Jones, 1996, p. 61).
Austin, Steven A. (1994), Grand Canyon: Monument to Catastrophe (El Cajon, CA: Institute for Creation Research).
Clark, Harold W. (1968), Fossils, Flood and Fire (Escondido, CA: Outdoor Pictures).
Clayton, John N. (1969), Questions and Answers: Number 1 [taped lecture], (South Bend, IN: Privately published by author).
Clayton, John N. (1980), "The Flood—Fact, Theory and Fiction," Does God Exist?, 7[7]:2-9, July.
Cockburn, Patrick (1750), An Enquiry into the Truth and Certainty of the Mosaic Deluge, quoted by Byron C. Nelson (1968), The Deluge Story in Stone (Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Book House).
Custance, Arthur C. (1958), The Extent of the Flood: Doorway Papers No. 41 (Ottawa, Canada: Privately published by author). [NOTE: This material by Custance also was included in his 1979 book, The Flood: Local or Global? (Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan).]
Fisher, Graham A. (1982), Speak Through the Earthquake, Wind & Fire (Merseyside, England: Countyvise, Ltd.).
Jones, Edwin S. (1996), Studies in Genesis (Abilene, TX: Quality).
Major, Trevor (1994), "Has Noah's Ark Been Found?," Reason & Revelation, 14:39, May.
Montgomery, John Warwick (1972), The Quest for Noah's Ark (Minneapolis, MN: Bethany Fellowship).
Morris, Henry M. (1972), The Remarkable Birth of Planet Earth (San Diego, CA: Institute for Creation Research).
Morris, Henry M. (1998), "Why Christians Should Believe in a Global Flood," Back to Genesis, (El Cajon, CA: Institute for Creation Research), 116:a-c, August.
Morris, John (1998), "How Does 'Old Earth' Thinking Affect One's View of Scripture's Reliability?," Back to Genesis, El Cajon, CA: Institute for Creation Research), 116:d, August.
Nelson, Byron (1931), The Deluge Story in Stone (Minneapolis, MN: Augsburg).
Oard, Michael J. (1997), Ancient Ice Ages or Gigantic Submarine Landslides? (Chino Valley, AZ: Creation Research Society).
Ramm, Bernard (1953), Protestant Christian Evidences (Chicago, IL: Moody).
Ramm, Bernard (1954), The Christian View of Science and Scripture (Grand Rapids, MI: Eerdmans).
Rehwinkel, Alfred M. (1951), The Flood (St. Louis, MO: Concordia).
Schultz, S.J. (1955), "The Unity of the Race: Genesis 1-11." Journal of the American Scientific Affiliation, 7:52.
Van Bebber, Mark and Paul S. Taylor (1996), Creation and Time: A Report on the Progressive Creationist Book by Hugh Ross (Gilbert, AZ: Eden Communications).
Whitcomb, John C. (1973), The World That Perished (Grand Rapids, MI: Baker).
Whitcomb, John C. and Henry M. Morris (1961), The Genesis Flood (Philadelphia, PA: Presbyterian & Reformed).
Woodmorappe, John (1996), Noah's Ark: A Feasibility Study (El Cajon, CA: Institute for Creation Research).


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Hats on!
The world's biggest pyjama party, the longest zombie fest … The Guinness Book of World Records is full of crazy things. One of the most recent entries is the world's largest gathering of people wearing party hats. In January, 2018, 621 school students came together in Wakefield, England, to promote the Young Minds charity.


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WASC senior commission commends UH system progressUniversity of Hawaiʻi
Mia Noguchi, (808) 956-9095
External Affairs & University Relations
HONOLULU — In a letter sent to UH Interim President David McClain, the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) stated that a Panel of the Interim Report Committee was "pleased" with the progress of the University of Hawaiʻi System in several areas and encouraged efforts to sustain it. The letter from WASC Executive Director Ralph Wolff noted "well-established and effective" relations with the Board of Regents, a slight increase in state funding, and an increase in tuition support. The letter also acknowledged the continuation of the University's strategic planning and the consultations with several system-wide groups of faculty, students and Chancellors.
To view the complete WASC letter visit http://www.hawaii.edu/offices/app/aa/.
The Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) is one of six regional accrediting associations in the United States. Formed in 1962, WASC evaluates and accredits schools, colleges, and universities in California, Hawaiʻi, and the Pacific Islands.
About the University of Hawaiʻi
Established in 1907 and fully accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges, the University of Hawaiʻi is the state's sole public system of higher education. The UH System provides an array of undergraduate, graduate, and professional degrees and community programs on 10 campuses and through educational, training, and research centers across the state. UH enrolls more than 50,000 students from Hawaiʻi, the U.S. mainland, and around the world. For more information, visit www.hawaii.edu.


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My birthday falls in February and Valentine's Day does, too. The weather this month can be a bit gloomy some years. That's why I'm always thrilled to receive a flowering indoor plant to brighten things up. Many bloom for a very long time making them a good investment. They are easier than you think to take care. Color inside the house is like seeing a rainbow. Flowering plants make you smile.
My mother used to love anthuriums so I always think of her whenever I see them. Found in wet tropical mountain forests of Central and South America some varieties have the unique ability to swivel their leaves toward the sun. Anthurium andraeanum is the common variety grown mainly in Florida and the Netherlands as an indoor house plant.
Anthuriums are durable and will survive for a remarkable period of time, even under adverse conditions. The beautiful waxy flowers along with large, heart-shaped glossy leaves are able to handle dryness around the root ball but then need to be watered thoroughly and allowed to dry slightly between waterings. They can take as much indirect light as you can provide. Lower levels of light will slow down flower production but the plant will survive just about anything. They make me think I'm in Hawaii again.
The amazing bromeliad family includes Spanish moss and the edible pineapple. Bromeliads are commonly called "air plants" but really they are epiphytes growing up in the air on tree limbs and crotches or in rock crevices, free of any connection to the ground. There are just a few species which grow on the ground and are rooted in soil. Bromeliads are distinctive as they have so many forms, textures, colorful leaves and long-lasting blooms. That's why I like them. They are among the easiest of indoor plants to grow and maintain.
I have a collection of tillandsias also in the bromeliad family. Some grow in shells, some on drift wood, some in terrariums. These are what most people think of as air plants but really they do need a lukewarm shower now and again like they would get in the tropics.
Then there are the bromeliads with bright, colorful bracts or modified leaves surrounding a tiny flower. Bromeliads flower only once, then send out new young offsets. All bromeliads share a common characteristic: trichomes which are tiny scales on their leaves. These scales serve as a very efficient absorption system. Bromeliads are very tolerant of drought conditions. In a normal house, it's not necessary to keep the central cup filled with water. If your plant is growing in a lot of light and you do fill the cup with water, make sure to flush it every so often to remove any salt build up.
Bromeliads are not heavy feeders and normally live on the scanty nutrients their roots obtain from rotting leaves. During the growing season you can use a liquid fertilizer at half or quarter strength. There are so many types of bromeliads to choose from. All are beautiful and provide color for a very long time.
There a several other blooming houseplants that are also personal favorites. We all have a couple of African violets happily blooming in a windowsill. Phalaenopsis orchids are pretty easy to bring into bloom in the average house. And one of the best houseplants for a hanging basket that takes lower light levels and dry conditions is the Lipstick plant. Free-flowering in shades of orange or red, the Lipstick plant is a relative of African violet and Streptocarpus. With showy flowers they are also related to "Goldfish plants". They prefer a well-drained potting mix since they are accustomed to surviving on rainwater running off the trees in the wild.
Remember that hanging plants that are closer to the ceiling where the air is warmer will dry out faster and need to be watered more frequently.
Living plants bring the outside in, clean the air and provide color when the sky is grey.


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One of the tenets of Modern Portfolio Theory is that risk and return are related; that is, a higher degree of risk in a client's investment portfolio is expected to generate a higher return. Conversely, less risk is expected to generate a lower return. More risk in a compliance program, however, will only generate the return of regulatory examiners on a more frequent basis. This is not what Dr. Markowitz had in mind.
Financial regulators take risk management very seriously, particularly the SEC. RIAs should expect at least a handful of questions on a regulatory examination regarding the firm's risk management practices. More specifically, be prepared to produce and explain:
- An inventory of risks
- How such risks formed the firm's policies and procedures, and documents mapping risks to policies and procedures
- When new risks were added or removed
- Risk mitigation efforts
Let's break this down into some concrete but simple examples to illustrate how a small RIA can establish a strong risk management program.
Getting a Handle on the Unknown
There's no uniform definition of risk, but I particularly like the one from Black's Law Dictionary, Eighth Edition: "the uncertainty of a result, happening, or loss." Risk is essentially the unknown.
Risks can vary immensely for different firms in terms of severity, likelihood of occurrence, applicability and ability to mitigate. Analyzing and categorizing each risk according to these assessment points is the foundation upon which policies and procedures can be constructed and informed decisions can be made.
A simple way to document and maintain such an assessment is an Excel spreadsheet with each risk listed in a different row, and each assessment point listed in a different column.
When assessing the likelihood of occurrence, answer the following question: What is the likelihood that Risk X actually occurs? Query the triggers of Risk X, how frequently such triggers have occurred in the past, and the likelihood that such triggers (or new triggers) could happen again in the future. A firm that engages in more frequent trading, for example, may be more likely to experience a trade error than a buy-and-hold firm that rebalances to a model portfolio on an annual basis. When assessing severity, answer the following question: if Risk X were to actually occur, how much would it negatively impact my clients, my business, my reputation and my finances? Query the potential fallout from Risk X, and the corrective actions needed to right the ship. A three-hour power outage and a Hurricane Sandy-like event are both risks that could impact a firm's business continuity plan, but the severity levels are obviously different between the two.
When assessing applicability, answer the following question: How applicable is Risk X to my firm? Query the extent to which activities are performed that would cause Risk X to occur and any regulatory requirements causing the firm to be in-scope of a particular rule. For example, there is a risk that a firm may publish an advertisement that is in violation of SEC advertising rules. This risk is clearly more applicable to a firm that utilizes social media, distributes weekly newsletters and updates its website daily, e.g.
When assessing ability to mitigate, answer the following question: To what extent can I mitigate or eliminate this risk? Query what mitigation efforts are already in place, and what additional steps should be undertaken to bring the risk down to an acceptable level. To mitigate the risk of insider trading, for example, a firm could institute lexicon-based email review software, curtail use of expert networks or require quarterly certifications of compliance from employees. A corollary question to be answered separately highlights one of the many benefits of performing a risk assessment: If I cannot eliminate or mitigate the risk, is this a risk worth taking?
For all assessment points, choose a uniform scale. Scales can take the form of descriptors (low, medium, or high), colors (green, yellow, red), or numbers (1 to 5). Whatever scale a firm chooses, include a brief legend to describe the logic behind it.
Each policy and procedure of the firm should be tailored to address a specific risk identified in the risk assessment. Thus, as a firm's risk assessment changes, so too should the firm's policies and procedures.
Both are dynamic and should not simply sit on the shelf collecting dust; review both the risk assessment and correspondent policies and procedures at least on an annual basis, or when new risks arise. Not having a risk assessment process is not a risk worth taking.


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New ballpark, same result, and I like it. Dioner Navarro just had himself a career day as he launched three home runs, and drove in six to lead the Cubs past the White Sox 9-3. Apparently the best medicine for an anemic offense is a dose of White Sox pitching as the Cubs have pounded out twenty hits and scored sixteen runs over the last two games. Navarro's offensive heroics were more than enough for Scott Feldman to earn his fifth win of the season. Feldman worked a solid six innings giving up two runs on six hits while striking out seven.
Game Highlights:
Navarro goes deep….THREE TIMES!
Sweeney's RBI single


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This is a question about Rubik's Cube and generalizations of this puzzle, such as Rubik's Revenge, Professor's cube or in general the $n \times n \times n$ cube.
Let $g(n)$ be the smallest number $m$, such that every realizable arrangement of the $n \times n \times n$ cube can be solved with $m$ moves. In other words, this is the "radius" of the Cayley graph of the $n \times n \times n$ cube group with respect to the canonical generating system.
We have $g(1)=0$, $g(2)=11$ and - quite recently - in 2010 it was proven that $g(3)=20$: God's number is 20.
Question. Is anything known about $g(4)$ or $g(5)$?
I expect that the precise number is unkwown since the calculation for Rubik's cube already took three decades. Nevertheless, is there any work in progress? Are any lower or upper bounds known?
I would like to ask the same question about $g(n)$ for $n>5$, or rather:
Question. Is anything known about the asymptotic value of $g(n)$?


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Official discussion threads for every episode
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KMU necesitaba un nuevo diseño de logotipo y lanzó un concurso de diseño en 99designs.
Un ganador ha sido elegido entre 104 diseños de 27 diseñadores freelance.
Krav Maga University
Krav Maga University is a provider of instructor training programs in Krav Maga, the official hand to hand system of the Israeli army.
The system is a military inspired system, but it is widely used by civilian and law enforcement on a regular bases.
There is a lot of commercial Krav Maga that is mainly promoted as a fad.
I want us to have a hard but professional image that will make people understand we are very legitimate.
Martial Arts instructors, law enforcement officers, military personnel.
I want us to appeal to somebody who want to be part of the "real deal". Our instructors are experienced and with many years of teaching special operations units and military units from all over the world.
I want our logo to give these school a sense of legitimacy to their programs.
Our market is a 25 to 40 year old active and mainly male.
The logo needs to be on clothing, marketing material, and website.
It has to be cool and hard. This is a higher education program for candidates who want to become instructors and teach Krav Maga. Usually our instructors will be passionate about martial arts, shooting and all fighting sports. This has to be a badge of respect that has to bring value in the business.
a look that I like is on website from Poland http://www.kravmaga-system.pl
Descubre cómo funciona un concurso de diseño u obtén más información sobre nuestros servicios de diseño de logo.


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The head of Google+ is leaving the company after eight years, according to reports.
Vic Gundotra, who helped create a social network for Google, will be leaving the company immediately, according to the Re/Code. Gundotra joined Google in 2007 after spending 15 years at Microsoft.
"Today I'm announcing my departure from Google after almost 8 years," Gundotra in a post. "I'm also forever in debt to the Google+ team. This is a group of people who built social at Google against the skepticism of so many."
U.S. & World
News from around the country and around the globe
Google chief executive and founder Larry Page posted on Google+, "Vic built Google+ from nothing. There are few people with the courage and ability to start something like that and I am very grateful for all his hard work and passion."
Vice president of engineering David Besbris is expected to replace Gundotra. Besbris joined Google in 2008 after spending almost a decade with AOL.
But why is Gundotra in such a hurry to leave? It seems as if the tech veteran is jumping ship to a new venture that needs his help immediately. If that's the case we'll learn about the new project shortly.


text: when I was driving the other night I would say about 30mph in third low revs, I dropped it down into second and put my foot down which the accelerator pedal stayed down. The first thing I did was to feel if it was just caught on the floor mat but after a second of the realising the pedal was physically stuck, I then had to pull the pedal back up by getting my toes on the side of it which it then gradually released. People on other forums say to knock it out of gear when it happens but at the time I didn't like the feeling of my engine being in neutral and being constantly on the rev limiter.


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Since 1993 MICM Property has been recognised as the premier Melbourne real estate agent for centrally-located apartments, property sales and rentals.
We have an extensive list of inner-city apartments for sale and rent, due to our large database of clients and prospective purchasers. Our experienced staff bring years of industry knowledge and exceptional service to produce outstanding results for our clients.
As well as sales and rentals, MICM Property's eight Melbourne inner city offices cater to all facets of Melbourne real estate including property management, leasing, owners corporation management, maintenance and insurance.
Extensive Inner City Coverage
If you value the benefits of an inner city lifestyle (or know that your tenants will), then MICM Property's broad coverage gives you access to all the fantastic bars, restaurants, galleries and festivals that Melbourne is known for, as well as proximity to work and transport; key requirements of many of our clients.
Our networks cover all areas of inner city Melbourne:
Inner: Southbank and Docklands
North: Carlton, Brunswick and North Melbourne
South: South Melbourne
West: Port Melbourne and West Melbourne
And many more.
Customer-Focused Sales and Leasing Team
Our professional Melbourne real estate agents can be contacted seven days a week. We are not a franchised organisation – our office network of over 150 staff operates as one team to source prospective purchasers for your property or an excellent rental for you to move into. For prospective investors we provide a professional appraisal, with the sales or rental value of your property, suggestions on improvements and a detailed analysis of the market activity of Melbourne.
MICM Property is the specialist inner city Melbourne real estate agent. Our talented staff, extensive office network and access to a broad database of clients ensures that we offer the best quality properties for sale or rent in the inner city.
- Premiere listing on realestate.com.au + E-Brochure (45 days, refreshed every 15 days)
- Listing on domain.com.au & reviewproperty.com.au- Listing on additional sites including micm.com.au, realestateview.com.au, homesales.com.au, realestate1.net.au,homehound.com.au, thehomepage.com.au, onthehouse.com.au, allhomes.com.au, homely.com.au, juwai.com, acproperty.com.au, squiiz.com.au, mitula.com.au
Auction or Private Sale, varies on property specific.


text:
Product Description
From runway to road
Though designed by Alpinestars Women's Fashion team and with catwalk trends' leading style, VIKA differentiates itself from its fashion counterparts by offering high-performance, cutting-edge protection. The propriety designs incorporate strategically positioned aramid stretch paneling to visually lengthen and enhance the female form while offering an optimized fit and maneuverability. The aramid panels are laminated to provide additional protection from the wind. VIKA is a perfect synthesis of form and function.
Cut for Comfort
Made from supple and durable full-grain leather with a seamless one-piece soft leather collar the VIKA Jacket offers a highly comfortable fit. Pre-contoured sleeves and extended back profile for added comfort and performance while riding bike. The jacket includes an internal waist-connection zipper for compatibility with the VIKA Pant. An satin-embossed full liner adds to the luxiourous feel of jacket.
Safety features
Lightweight, highly contoured and removable CE-certified elbow and shoulder protectors offer superb impact protection. These high performance protectors are perforated for maximum breathability and are reduced in thickness to help female styling.
Additional Information
Additional Information
|Part Number
|Special Price


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Bird watching in Extremadura: a real experience
Egyptian vulture
Imperial eagle
Detail of a griffon vulture's head
Group of vultures
Why not enjoy a fascinating spectacle? Watch hundreds of species of birds, some endangered, in their natural habitat. You can live this experience in Extremadura. This inland region of Spain is an ideal place to go birdwatching. The requirements are simple: a basic pair of binoculars, love of nature and respect for the environment.
Spain is one of the European countries with the greatest diversity of bird life. And what better place to go birdwatching than in Extremadura: 75 percent of the Region is considered as Important Bird Area (IBA). Each year, the provinces of Cáceres and Badajoz are the chosen destination for numerous species of birds to nest and raise their young, and also to rest on their migratory routes. Come and see these feathered animals from up close, and discover nature areas of great ecological value.
Spring is the ideal time of year to go birdwatching. Birds are easy to spot during these months, when they are raising their young. Get yourself some binoculars or a suitable telescope, a good bird guide, and get ready to live a unique experience.
Extremadura has many places of interest for bird watching. One of the most outstanding is the Monfragüe National Park, which has the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve designation. This immense Mediterranean forest is not to be missed. Here you will find endangered species such as the Iberian imperial eagle, the black stork and the golden eagle. Furthermore, did you know that this is home to the world's largest colony of black vultures, with more than 250 pairs? You can see them in flight from some of the viewpoints and observatories dotted around Monfragüe. Another good way to discover this bird life is to go on one of the signposted trails that cross the reserve. Remember not to leave the marked route, and to always look from a distance so as not to disturb the animals. Be sure to visit the Nature Visitor Centre, vital if you are to understand the reserve's importance.
In Extremadura there are also 69 ZEPAs, areas of special protection for birds. The La Serena region, the Cáceres plains and the Brozas plains are good places to see great bustards and white storks, amongst other species. Different types of eagle, black stork and vulture, and Egyptian vulture take refuge in the Cornalvo Nature Reserve, the Sierra de San Pedro Mountains and the Dehesas de Jerez area. The same can be said for cranes, kites, ducks and a host of water birds, in the Moheda Alta area and on the Orellana Reservoir. Make for the region's tourist offices, where they will give you more information on routes, guided itineraries and activities related with this beautiful way of enjoying free time and the countryside.
Dirección General de Turismo de Extremadura
Mérida was founded by Augustus in 25 BC to accommodate ...(+詳細)
Birds and Wines in 'Pago de los Balancines' Winery + Lunch
Discover Pago de los Balancines a winery in the heart ...(+詳細)
Oliva de Mérida
Combined Excursion Monfragüe N.P. and Visit to Plasencia
We'll go deep into this lovely protected area and enjoy ...(+詳細)
Plasencia,Malpartida de ...
This is a unique and special tour across the city of ...(+詳細)


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Ampliqon Taq DNA Polymerase 5 U/µl glycerol free,
10x Ammonium Buffer and MgCl2, 500 Unit 1 tube x 0.1 ml
Ampliqon Taq DNA Polymerase is developed for automation and freeze drying. It is a glycerol free formulation of standard Ampliqon Taq DNA Polymerase and is well suited for automated routine PCR applications, or where accurate pipetting of small amounts is crucial.
FEATURES Glycerol free storage buffer Suitable for automated high throughput testing Suitable for applications involving freeze drying Suitable for robot-aided pipetting High product yield Processes up to 5 kb dUTP incorporation possible Leaves a 3'dA overhang
DESCRIPTION Ampliqon Taq DNA Polymerase Glycerol Free exhibits both a 5'-3'dA DNA polymerase and a 5'-3' exonuclease activity. The 5'-3' exonuclease activity leaves a 3' overhang on the PCR product, which are convenient for direct T-A cloning. Taq DNA Polymerase Glycerol Free lacks 3'-5' exonuclease activity and proofreading ability.
WHAT GLYCEROL DOES Glycerol is normally a major part of the storage buffer for enzymes, and acts as a cryoprotectant. Glycerol disrupts the water structure and makes the buffer more cell like, thus stabilising the polymerase. Glycerol is a highly viscous liquid and is therefore difficult and time-consuming to pipet accurately, especially in smaller volumes. As a consequence, pipetting glycerol in fast robot-aided automation processes is almost an unsolvable challenge. Furthermore, the presence of glycerol in the enzyme buffer makes freeze drying impossible.
- Artikel-Nr: A101103
- Warengruppen-Nr.: 90880502
- Warengruppe: Reagenzien für PCR
- Packung: 500 Unit
- Gültigkeit: 31.12.2020
- Letztes Update: 27.02.2020


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Name: Ravyn
Real Name: Melissa
Rhetoric: Participant in late night hackery at Noisebridge and occasional weekly meeting attendant.
Interests: Movies, Music, Modifying Computers (Making, Breaking, Repairing, and Modifying), Making all electronics multi-functional and better.
Languages: English, Bad English, minimal amounts of Hebrew and Yiddish, and very small amounts of Spanish, German, and Russian.
Gender: Female
Contact Method: Email- firstname.lastname@example.com
Occupation: Feed Me


text:
Dark Horse must have the coolest merchandising people ever. They put out a Tara McPherson Coloring book!
Also, they had a lot of DOMO-KUN merchandise out. From what I hear Domo-kun is coming to Nick Jr in the near future.
They are also distributing some classic Dr. Who statues from WETA...
The Dark Crystal from Mindstyle


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12522 24 Hour Plumbers | Local Plumbing Contractors Dover Plains, NY
Affordable Plumbing Service | 855-439-2510
Whether you're looking for a residential plumber or a commercial plumber, the contractors to call in Dover Plains, NY are at ReachMeLocal.net. Our experts provide plumbing services of all kinds to the homeowners and business owners in 12522 and the surrounding areas. They can replace your water heater, fix a burst pipe, repair that leaky faucet, and so much more.
No one can predict when their house might suffer from a plumbing emergency. The expert plumbers in 12522 are available for your convenience 24 hours a day, 7 days a week! If you need an emergency plumber, we have professionals available to help with your serious plumbing emergencies.
12522 Plumbing Estimates | Quality Plumbers in Dover Plains, NY
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5. Leaking Hose Bibb
6. Slow Or Clogged Drains
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8. Water Heater
No matter if your plumbing problem is common or not, our expert technicians in Dover Plains, NY 12522 can handle anything! To take care of your leaky faucet, clogged drain, or any other plumbing issue just give us a call.
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- Hot Water Heater 12522
- Clear Clogged Drain
- 12522 Pipe Leak Repair


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text:
Justin Timberlake Creates Fan Montage for 'Not a Bad Thing' Music Videoby Mandi Salerno | PopCrush
Justin Timberlake's new music video for his latest single 'Not a Bad Thing' is comprised of touching photos and video footage submitted by fans showing how love has positively impacted their lives. The montage video is an incredibly cool and unique way to get others involved in the message that love is a beautiful thing.
The 'Mirrors' singer turned to fans through social media to help complete his latest project. Using the hash tag 'NotABadLoveStory,' fans submitted material that epitomizes the love in their lives. The music vid is a mishmash of people and small glimpses into their lives, and the effect creates a diverse and completely heartfelt video that'll have you reaching for your own loved ones.
The best part of the video is that JT chose to focus on all types of love. It kicks off with footage of an expectant mother's stomach, where you can see her baby moving around. There are photos of parents with their kids, and a funny clip of a woman graduating university. It's not just about romantic love — though there is plenty of that as well — but about every type of love we're lucky enough to experience.
Check out the 'Not a Bad Thing' video up above, and give your loved ones a hug!


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New District 5 Commissioner Cindy Meadows was anything but quiet at Tuesday�s BCC meeting.
She seemed to focus in on operations at the Walton County TDC, especially concerning applications for TDC advisory council members.
�I think what she was looking for was more time for a thorough review of the applications,� said TDC Executive Director Dawn Moliterno. �I can appreciate that.�
There are four open seat appointments, and the BCC has the final say on which of the 11 applicants would fill each.
The commission, which includes three new elected officials who were sworn in Nov. 20, were scheduled to vote on TDC applicants at the Nov. 27 meeting. But that didn�t happen. Moliterno said the applications were submitted to the county Nov. 20 to give each commissioner plenty of time to look each application over.
Apparently, Meadows did not receive hers until Nov. 26, and in the time she had to review it, some of the applicants raised a red flag, as far as their meeting all of the qualifying criteria.
�Somebody in your shop needs to pay much better attention to detail,� Meadows told Moliterno.
One main qualifier is that the applicant must be a registered voter in Walton County, a criterion Meadows said the TDC overlooked.
�They�re all qualified,� Moliterno later told The Sun. But, �there is an individual who is currently not a ... Walton County registered voter. The commission will be asked to just not include that applicant in their voting.�
The applicants must also be �in good standing,� and Moliterno had written a note on one application for attorney Clay Adkinson to define the term. Adkinson said the phrase may point to a business owner who might be delinquent in bed tax remittances. He said it has nothing to do with an individual being in litigation with the county.
While she had the ear of Moliterno, Meadows moved the conversation to general TDC operations, especially concerning an incident when a bed tax collector approached the TDC for reservations help.
�The bed tax collector was told to never contact the TDC again for reservations,� said Meadows.
Moliterno immediately wrote that off as misinformation, replying, �We've never said that. I have no idea who stated that.�
District 4 Commissioner Sara Comander piped in, �May I suggest you two get together?�
The two women agreed to speak about these issues at a later date.
�Communications lines will be open, I assure you of that,� said Meadows.
�I welcome that,� replied Moliterno.
Meadows, who served on the commission previously from 2004 to 2008, apologized for so openly airing her problems with the TDC, but added, �I feel that people should know what is going on at the TDC.�
The commission granted itself an extension for the TDC Advisory Council applications, and will vote on the four seat appointments Dec. 11.
County tries to preserve business signage
The county commission is hoping for compromise when it comes to the large black and white directional signs that direct patrons to off-98 businesses.
Though FDOT said they would be removing the signs by Nov. 13, the county received an extension, though a date for further action has not been set. Directional signs are allowed, according to county and state statutes, but they are not to be advertisements and they are not to be on a state-maintained right of way.
Commissioner Sara Comander said the extension may be an opportunity to create a compromise with the state about the signage, and bring all of them up to code as well as make sure they are legally permitted through the county.
�This may be an opportunity for something that is nicer looking,� agreed Commissioner Cindy Meadows.
The next BCC meeting will be held at the South Walton Courthouse Annex Dec. 11 at 4 p.m.


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Vandersanden Group awarded Worldwide Brick Award
The annual Brick Awards are one of the oldest and most respected design awards in the United Kingdom. In 2012 the Brick Development Association presented the awards for the 35th time.
From more than 300 entries, Vandersanden Group and 5 other candidates were nominated in the "Worldwide Brick Award" category. The prize was awarded to Vandersanden Group for the Raakspoort project in the Netherlands. On January the 8th. 2013 the official hand over of the Award took place in the factory Hedikhuizen (NL). The ceremony took place in the presence of the BDA and the German architects Bolles + Wilson from Münster.
The winning project
At first sight a town hall and a cinema are two types of building that do not seem to go well together. And yet in Haarlem they are both united within one complex, the Raakspoort complex. Architects Bolles+Wilson from Münster (Germany) designed the new building with the clock tower. According to the panel of 9 adjudicators, Raakspoort was chosen because of the way the building blended in with its environment and the wealth of innovation applied to the detailing in the masonry. "The characteristic brick features completely come to their advantage. The detailed exterior walls that face each other and the beautiful incidence of light provide a continuously changing view of the project," the panel of adjudicators explained.
The Viola handformed facing bricks are the only bricks that have been incorporated into the building. The use of different colours for the pointing and uniform and textured bonds have created several different effects in the overall result.
The project took a long time to plan. It took more than 10 years of well-considered municipal master planning and revisions to arrive at a final overall result. In October 2011 the doors to Raakspoort were opened. Commercial Director of Vandersanden Group, Wilfried Lenaers: "This is a good example of how the right choice of facing bricks combined with creative masonry can result in an astonishingly beautiful architectural design."
Project details:
- Raakspoort, Haarlem: town hall and cinema
- Architect: Bolles+Wilson (Interior: Doll Architecten, NL)
- Contractor: Dura Vermeer Bouw Haalemmermeer BV
- Facing bricks: 13. Viola WF
- Area: 18,500 m²


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- Kayla Koch named to All-Tournament Team -
Farmingdale State - 70, John Jay - 53
Grantham, Penn. - The Farmingdale State women's basketball team held a 10 point halftime advantage and pulled away in the second half, defeating John Jay 70-53 in the consolation game of the Hampton Inn Tip-Off Classic hosted by Messiah College. The Rams picked up their first win of the season and now stand at 1-2 overall.
Farmingdale State was led by senior guard Kayla Koch (Kings Park, N.Y.) who shot 5-of-9 from the field for 15 points and added 10 rebounds. Koch was named to the Hampton Inn Tip-Off Classic All-Tournament Team. Sophomore forward Lushanta Savadel (Bellport, N.Y.) scored a team-high 16 points after shooting 70% from the floor.
The Rams held a 37-29 lead early in the second half, before an 11-0 run spanning the next 3:18 quickly extended the advantage to 48-29. Farmingdale State held a double-digit lead throughout the remainder of the game.
The Bloodhounds (0-2) were led by freshman forward Tyana Hale (Brooklyn, N.Y.) who scored a game-high 19 points and had seven rebounds and six steals.
The Rams next will host Baruch in a non-conference game on Tuesday, November 22nd at 6:00 p.m.
Hampton Inn Tip-Off Classic All-Tournament Team:
- Kayla Koch (FSC)
- Jamecia Forsynthe (JJ)
- Nicky Hess (MC)
- Kira Maier (MC)
- Emily Fenton (SV)
- Brittany Sedlock (SV) -- MVP


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ARLINGTON, Va. – A Defense Department agency has opened its annual selection process for the nation's employers that are the most supportive of employees who serve in the National Guard and reserves.
Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve, or ESGR, is accepting nominations for the 2012 Secretary of Defense Employer Support Freedom Award, the department's highest award for civilian employers supporting Guard and reserve members.
Department officials encourage all Guard and reserve members to nominate employers who have provided exceptional support of their military service. Nominations may be submitted by service members, or a family member acting on their behalf, at www.FreedomAward.mil/ through Jan. 16."Employers who go above and beyond in their support of Guard and reserve members are providing a tremendous service to our country," David McGinnis, acting assistant secretary of defense for reserve affairs, said in a statement released today. They contribute to the resilience and peace of mind of the more than 1 million men and women who stand ready to serve when the nation calls on them, he added.
Guard and reserve members who feel their employers have gone the extra mile in supporting their military service should nominate them "to show their appreciation and highlight their support as an example for others to follow," McGinnis said.
Previous award recipients were recognized for support such as organizing colleagues to provide dinners to a deployed employee's family, covering extra shifts during an employee's military training, taking a deployed service member's children to sports practices and other events, and establishing robust military support networks.
The 2012 recipients are scheduled to be announced by early summer and to be honored during a ceremony in the nation's capital early next fall.
ESGR began the Freedom Award in 1996, and since then, 160 employers have been honored with the award. ESGR was established in 1972 to develop and maintain employer support for Guard and reserve service.


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Wordless (Nearly) Wednesday
Eileen and Pete
In Eileen's 1936 diary, Week 33 (posted yesterday), we mentioned that on August 10, Pete Smith was first mentioned as a dancing partner. Here are Eileen and Pete, likely taken at a photo booth at the county fair, likely in later 1936 or in 1937. Of course, I knew them best as Mom and Dad! ;-)
Families are Forever! ;-)


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Ending a four-month-long manhunt, San Jose police arrested — without incident — a Hells Angel wanted for the murder of a fellow Angel in the middle of a funeral.
The 38-year-old suspect, Steve Ruiz, is suspected of shooting fellow Angel Steve Tausan to death Oct. 15 at San Jose's Oak Hill Cemetery.
Ruiz, who had been on the run for months, was caught Saturday evening at a motel in Fremont.
"We're relieved to have him off the streets," said Sgt. Jason Dwyer during a Sunday news conference at police headquarters. "This was a difficult case for investigators to solve."
Ruiz's arrest is the latest chapter in a series of bizarre and violent chain-reaction episodes involving the Hells Angels, a legendary outlaw motorcycle gang originally formed in 1948 in Fontana.
In September, San Jose Hells Angels President Jeff "Jethro" Pettigrew was shot and killed in a Nevada casino, allegedly by a member of the rival Vagos motorcycle gang.
Pettigrew and Tausan were close friends. More than 3,000 members of various motorcycle clubs gathered in October at Oak Hill to pay their respects to Pettigrew. Sources have said a fistfight erupted between Tausan and Ruiz, and during the fight, Ruiz drew a handgun, shot Tausan and fled during the melee that ensued.
Tausan was a Hells Angels legend, an ex-boxer who beat a man to death at the Pink Poodle strip club in 1997, only to have a jury acquit him after he claimed self-defense. His funeral also was held at Oak Hill.
For months, San Jose police have been trying to find Ruiz. Dwyer said that Ruiz had been moving around from place to place and was known by authorities to have stayed briefly in the Stockton and Sacramento areas.
A fresh tip to detectives indicated that Ruiz was in Fremont, and more than a dozen officers moved quickly Saturday to surround the Days Inn motel at 46101 Warm Springs Blvd. Ruiz, who was believed to be armed and dangerous, apparently was alone and surrendered to police about 7:30 p.m. without incident. He spoke to detectives and was booked at the Santa Clara County main jail.
"We don't believe that he'd been there for very long," said Dwyer of the Fremont motel. "We had a small window of opportunity to capture him. The fact that he surrendered peacefully was fortunate."
San Jose police stressed that the Hells Angel murder, which has received national publicity, was one of 39 homicides in San Jose last year and that detectives worked the case like any other, putting in long hours as they juggled a heavy caseload.
They also said that Ruiz had a lot of help eluding law enforcement in the four months since the funeral.
"If someone helped him evade capture, we're going to come after them," Dwyer said.
Contact Dana Hull at firstname.lastname@example.com.


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We at the Mother Nature Network have a confession to make: While it's in our DNA to champion sensible eating that promotes wellness not only of the human body, but of the planet as well, nothing quite catches our attention like an outlandish, oversized all-you-can-eat buffet. Sure, the modern day buffet, particularly those of the bloated Las Vegas variety, often falls snugly into the gastronomical grotesquerie category. And, yes, the inherent feeding frenzy nature of the buffet, a concept first developed in 18th century France, don't exactly help things along when it comes to fighting the American obesity epidemic.
Yet this unholy union of gluttony, spectacle and thrift continues to fascinate and intrigue so much so that we've taken it upon ourselves to round up six notable self-serve eateries ranging from a kitschy downtown L.A. cafeteria beloved by the late Ray Bradbury to an otherworldly mega-smorgasbord in Pennsylvania Dutch country to a Maryland institution where patrons have been clamoring over unlimited crab legs for nearly 60 years. While these establishments may not necessarily be the best, biggest or most bizarre buffets in all of the land, they do possess unique qualities that help them stand out from ubiquitous, all-you-can-eat chain establishments operated by Buffets, Inc. And although buffets do tend to get a bad rep amongst health-conscious foodies, we do like that some allow curious patrons to sample regional and international fare (i.e. Ethiopian, vegan Korean or Brazilian BBQ) or without having to commit to ordering an entire entrée that may or may not go to waste.
So please, grab those heartburn meds, pull on a comfortable pair of pants and gather up all the restraint you can muster for a tour, won't you? You'll find us at the salad bar, quietly weeping.
The Buffet at Bellagio, Las Vegas, Nev.
It's big, it's bad, it may end in heartburn … it's the Buffet Bellagio. In an excess-crazed town famous for its over-the-top buffets, the Bellagio hotel and casino's all-you-can-eat eatery consistently ranks among the best (although locals and people with kids seem to prefer the Rio's Carnival World Buffet … be careful, as that establishment's website features buffet porn that's not for the faint of heart). Under the helm of executive chef Daniel Bridges, the Buffet Bellagio offers multiple types of cuisine — Italian, Japanese, Mexican, Chinese, American, and, of course, seafood — "brought together in an exciting display of taste and talent." And what do you know? Buffet Bellagio is located right next door to the "O" Theater, current home to Cirque Du Soleil. Because, really, nothing quite works up an appetite for crab legs and prime rib than watching highly theatrical acrobatics and synchronized swimming for two hours.
Classified as the Bellagio's sole "casual" dining option aside from the poolside café and a 24-hour joint, prices at the Buffet aren't all that casual: Dinner will set you back $30 while the "gourmet dinner" on Friday and Saturday nights involves a $7 upgrade for the chance to scarf unlimited Kobe beef, foie gras and other edibles that you will never, ever spot at your local Golden Corral. Or, you can save your slot machine winnings and opt for the $17 breakfast and do dinner at one of Bellagio's more spendy eateries — ones that revolve more around sommeliers than salad tongs — such as Le Cirque, Prime Steakhouse or Michael Mina.
Shady Maple Smorgasbord, East Earl, Pa.
The culinary delights served in this super-intense, Costco-sized cafeteria are, of course, of the PA Dutch variety so a (multiple) visit(s) to the 200-foot buffet wouldn't be complete without regional delicacies like baked corn, scrapple, shoofly pie, and puddins — for the love of God, don't forget the puddins. After navigating around the Mennonite kids hovering around the soft-serve machine and washing it all down with sarsaparilla, waddle on downstairs to the delirium-inducing 4,000-square-foot gift store to pick up a handmade bonnet, Amish romance novel or enough Yankee Candles to gag a buggy-pulling horse. And aside from the carbo-loading and tchotchke shopping, people-watching at "the Shade" is an attraction within itself that's well worth the $20 cover charge. Bring Rolaids and your sense of adventure — the Shady Maple is an indelible dining experience of the highest order. Closed Sundays.
Although the all-you-can-eat scene in Ohio's Amish country doesn't hold a candle (a candle made from cheese and egg noodles, no doubt) to that in Lancaster, Pa., Holmes County isn't without a few establishments that would make any frequent OCB patron weak at the knees. Sure, the down-homey, dessert-heavy Der Dutchman mini-chain rules the bucolic, buggy-filled region, but we prefer the sweet and unassuming underdog. And her name is Mrs. Yoder.
Although famous for special options including ribs, pickled beet and mustard eggs, and a local specialty called wedding steak, Mrs. Yoder's Kitchen's country breakfast buffet can't be beat. We mean really, there's not quite a better way to start the day (they open at 7:30) than a heaping plateful of fried mush, scalloped apples and cracker pudding. Your companion who decided to go the a la carte route and order the "health bowl" (homemade granola and wheat toast) or scarfed a Kashi bar in the car will no doubt be envious. Very envious. And after you're done digesting that delightful morning meal, there's no better way to burn off those calories by taking a guided tour of Yoder's Amish Home 116-acre farm (19th century barns! Buggy rides! Bunnies!) in nearby Millersburg on State Route 515.
The Lady & Sons, Savannah, Ga.
No matter how y'all may feel about disgraced Food Network giggle monster/butter proselytizer Paula Deen and her delayed yet totally unsurprising diabetes reveal earlier this year, there's no denying that the buffet offerings at the jolly celeb chef's 330-seat Savannah restaurant, The Lady & Sons, are massively difficult to resist. Along with popular a la carte items such crab cakes, fried green tomatoes, shrimp and grits and Deen's famed asparagus sandwich, the Lady's Southern Buffet offers classic, highly caloric staples of down-home, deep South cookery. And what do you know? All five basic food groups are proudly represented in Deen's all-you-care-to-eat buffet.
Let's start at the bottom of the food pyramid, shall we? For your grain fix, choose from rice. Not entirely exciting. Moving on up to fruits and vegetables, we have us a salad bar, yams, collard greens, creamed potatoes, black-eyed peas, lima beans, banana puddin' and peach cobbler (okay, those last two are a stretch). Proteins are where things get really tempting: fried chicken and BBQ riblets are just some of the offerings. And at the tippity top of the food pyramid is the proceed with caution category — fats, oils and sweets — that essentially drizzles down to the more nutritious categories below it (remember that it's Paula Deen, the high priestess of gooey cakes and cheeseburger meatloaf, that we're dealing with). The perpetually mobbed The Lady & Sons has been in its current downtown Savannah location since 2003 with plans to further expand. Is a Novo Nordisk annex in the works, perhaps?
Phillips Crab House, Ocean City, Md.
In Ocean City, Md., enchanted land of Jesus sand sculptures, wildly un-PC T-shirt shops and the kitschiest miniature golf courses known to mankind, gorging yourself silly at an all-you-can-eat seafood buffet is a cherished pastime. Regular Ocean City vacationers all seem to have their favorite establishment — Embers, Bonfire, Jonah and the Whale, and the Paul Revere Smorgasbord with its delightfully outdated boardwalk signage – but, without a doubt, the gluttonous granddaddy of them all is Phillips Crab House.
Nestled amongst O.C.'s elephantine high-rise condos in an expansive, Tudor-style complex on Philadelphia Avenue, this is the original Phillips — the restaurant is now a regional chain with locations in Washington, Baltimore and beyond — and has been serving up both surf and a little bit of turf to the sunburned, Old Bay-addicted masses since 1956. In addition to the time-warp ambiance (think stained glass, Tiffany lamps and wood paneling), the main draw at this old school institution's buffet are, of course, the snow crab legs, blue crabs, raw oysters, fried shrimp, clam chowder and every type of edible oceanic creature that can be fried, steamed, baked, grilled or served raw (Phillips' famous crab cakes, however, are an a la carte option and not included in the $32.99 all-you-can-eat cover charge). And oh yeah, there's a salad bar. Sure, there have been grumbles as of late from old-timers about decreased quality and inflated prices, but for serious seafood buffet-ers, Phillips' mecca status remains unchallenged.
Clifton's Brookdale Cafeteria, Los Angeles
While the all-you-can-eat for 64 cents days are long gone and its most famous regular, Ray Bradbury, has eaten his last plate of mac 'n' cheese and Jell-O salad, downtown Los Angeles' legendary Clifton's Brookdale Cafeteria perseveres under the preservation-minded watch of nightclub impresario Andrew Meieran, who bought the comfort food institution in 2010. The Brookdale, the last and undoubtedly most famous member of the Clifton Cafeteria family, was fully shuttered earlier this year to be treated to a $3.5 million interior renovation (it's expected to reopen at some point in 2013).
But worry not Brookdale old-timers: The new-and-improved Brookdale will maintain its emphasis on serving up quality, home-cooked comestibles with a newly instated focus on organic and locally sourced ingredients. And, of course, Meieran has vowed not to disturb the Brookdale's delightfully garish, faux woodland setting that, since the five-floor cafeteria's opening in 1935, has threatened to upstage the fare itself. Once described by the Los Angeles Times as a "slightly down-at-the-heels Disney version of a twilight forest" complete with taxidermy, water features and faux redwood trees, the Brookdale's post-renovation interior will continue to transport diners from the gritty expanses of South Broadway to a setting that can be best described as the OCB meets the Country Bear Jamboree. Reads the Clifton's Cafeteria website on the renovation: "All existing historic fabric will be thoughtfully and carefully retained — including the Chapel, the Waterfall and Brook (what would the Brookdale be without its Brook?!), the Redwood trees and terraces — the elements that have made Clifton's an institution for so many decades. Missing fanciful elements like the original Water Wheel, Old Tree Wishing Well, Limeade Springs, and Sherbet Mine will be re-created in a fashion; bringing to life the history Clifton's represents." Click here to read more about the ongoing efforts to restore Clifton's Brookdale to its original kitschy splendor.
Click for photo credits
Bellagio: 8 Eyes Photography/Flickr
Shady Maple courtesy of restaurant
Mrs. Yoder's: cassaendra/Flickr
Lady & Sons: jshyun/Flickr
Phillips Crab House courtesy of restaurant
Clifton's: Nick Sherman/Flickr
MNN tease photo of buffet: Shutterstock


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MarkNoble wrote: The best paying jobs in my field of industrial hygiene are actually out in places like Fort McMurray, which are unfortunately, not very appealing to those raised in the urban milieu.
This is for you Mark!
And please call me Laird ( it's my name )
FEUR is an acronym for the art I teach. It's a private joke. I was showing a few variations of a move to a student each one increasing the level of violence. On the last variation I said if you really want to fuk them up do this.....The student said every thing you teach fuks people up.
I said well that's why we are here to learn "Fuk Em up Ryu." If anyone thought this was dance class you should leave now! This isn't zen class or the cultural exchange society we are here to learn to hurt people!
The next day one of my students presented me with this logo on a T shirt.
The nick name kind of stuck. My name wouldn't work when I was registering for the forum so I used the nickname for the training group.


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On this day — the House passes their version of an austerity budget; Storify gives us a look back at the higher and lower points of the budget debate; political analysis of the House budget; the comptroller's dime-store novel gets another look; another look at Gov. Perry's controversial strategy for Texas' flagship universities; and how school district cutbacks are making it more difficult to recruit college students to teaching.
***Austere Budget Leaves August Body
Even thought the outcome was never really in doubt, it took about 22 hours of debate over two days for the Texas House to pass a budget that slashes more than $23 billion in spending. The vote was 98-49, mostly along party lines. Austin Bureau Chief Peggy Fikac reports:
"This budget is the result of the worst recession that anybody in this room has ever experienced," said House Appropriations Committee Chairman Jim Pitts, R-Waxahachie. "I know this bill is not perfect. … This budget does fund the essential services of state government within our state revenue."
The $164.5 billion budget for the next two years – which would trim $23 billion from current state and federal spending – would have a disastrous effect on key services, said outnumbered Democrats, joined by some leading Republicans. Legislators voted along party lines, except for two Republicans who voted against it – David Simpson of Longview and Aaron Pena of Edinburg.
***Moving Deckchairs on the Titanic
Throughout the debate, Democrats took every opportunity they could to point out what the massive spending cuts would portend for Texas' public schools, universities and services to the poor. At a Sunday afternoon press conference, Democratic leaders compared the Republican budget measure to "rearranging the deck chairs on the Titanic" and said it would cost far more in the long-term than it saves in the short-term.
"We aren't really accomplishing anything except reshuffling chairs on the Titanic," said Rep. Jessica Farrar of Houston, leader of the House Democratic Caucus.
She and other Democrats said the measure — which would cut $23 billion in state and federal money from current spending, slashing human services and education — would have far-reaching, negative consequences for Texas and serve to drive more costs down to local governments.
Republicans had their own press conference before debate on House Bill 1 kicked off Friday, saying they aren't "heartless"' but practicing "tough love" in the belief that living within the state's means is the best way to ensure its economic future.
"If we don't do something, the effects to a recovering economy of all these teachers out of work, all these state employees out of work, it will make it harder for our econmy to recover and the costs will be greater," Farrar said, adding, "You have a feeling among Republicans that they need o be to the right of the next Republican … What they're trying to do is placate a constituency that is concerned about that (cuts)."
***Relive the Twitter Debate
Using Storify – I set out to create a collection of 'as it's happening' tweets from reporters, activists and politicians.
– Storify of Friday morning's budget debate
– Storify of Friday night's budget debate.
– Storify of Sunday's budget debate
– Storify of the Representatives closing remarks from the budget debate.
– Storify of the House vote, reporter notes on/activist reaction to the vote.
***The Next Hurdle on the Budgetary Tract
The ball is in the other chamber's court now, as the Senate Finance Committee continues to work on marking up its budget proposal. Possible Senate budget proposals don't cut nearly as deeply as the House proposal does and Republican and Democratic leaders in the Senate have openly stated that the House's budget, as currently drafted, is dead on arrival.
So what's next? A Senate special committee has been tasked with identifying up to $5 billion in new non-tax revenue to help offset the higher spending levels in the Senate budget. The Senate is also expected to make greater use of money in the Rainy Day Fund to help close the state's massive budget shortfall.
Dipping into the state's piggy bank again is thought to be politically untenable in the House and the Governor has said that he would not sign a budget that did just that. With all of these dynamics in place — it's becoming less a matter of whether or not there will be a special session and more a matter of how many special sessions will it take to pass out a budget.
***Notes From the Budget Debate
Two amendments to House Bill 1 probably drew the most attention were both authored by Rep. Wayne Christian, R- Nacogdoches.
The first amendment requires universities that provide space and funding to 'Gender and Sexuality Centers,' which provide community space and resources for gay and questioning teens on campus, must provide equal resources and funding to 'Traditional Family Values Centers.'
While taking questions from the back mic, Christian raised eyebrows by stating that universities were instructing students on how engage in "alternative sexual practices," and compared the state's right to regulate that to the state's right to prevent universities from teaching students how to build bombs. Nevertheless, it passed by a vote of 110-24.
His second amendment would have require that instruction about 'Western Civilization' comprise of 10 percent of the course offerings at universities. At one point during the debate he was asked by Rep. Borris Miles if Jim Crow should be included in 'Western Civilization.'
"It should if that was part of the history," Christian responded. "Take me as an example…"
Then, he was interrupted and asked if the murder of James Bryd (which happened in Christian's district) should be taught as part of 'Western Civilization.'
"Not of western civilization," Christian responded. "Would that be included in African history? Would white, European history be included in African history courses?"
It was tabled by a vote of 108-27.
***University 'Reforms' Rile Professors
The Houston Chronicle's Patti Hart reports that professors from both A&M and UT are chaffing against reforms backed by Gov. Rick Perry that they say will drastically curtail long-term university research and turn the state's flagship campuses into diploma mills:
Academics at both institutions expressed outrage and dismay that Perry is imposing policies endorsed by the Texas Public Policy Foundation, a conservative Austin think tank, that faculty members say will undermine research endeavors and ultimately destroy the national status and reputation at UT and A&M.
Dr. Alan Friedman, chair of the UT Faculty Senate, sensed his Aggie colleagues were "far more angry and dispirited" than the UT faculty. "It's not that they are any more under attack. It's that they don't feel that their administration — at the chancellor and president level – are on their side," he said.
Not so the UT faculty, who believe Chancellor Francisco G. Cigarroa and President William Powers have been "standing up for what a Tier One university should be," Friedman said.
– The Houston Chronicle's Patti Hart turns back a page and looks at what lessons Susan Comb's could take from her idealized self-image.
– The Star-Telegram's Yamil Berard reports on highly qualified students who can't make it into the state's flagship universities.
– The Los Angeles Times reports that the number of college students in California training to become teachers has significantly declined, in large part, due to teacher layoffs.


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In addition to quality academics, Fresno Pacific University is committed to providing its students with valuable services and formative experiences. Student Life provides information, opportunities and services that aid the holistic development of students and their ability to succeed in today's job market. Services are offered in the areas of counseling, career development, disability services, health services, residence life, commuter life, housing, leadership and spiritual development. The College Hour chapel program and outreach ministries also enhance students' potential as vital members of society and the Kingdom of God.
Continue to browse this site and our official media outlets to get a glimpse of the many valuable services and formative experiences that the Student Life Division offers to students of Fresno Pacific University. Also, feel free to visit our office in the Steinert Campus Center or call us at 559-453-2073.
Review the student handbook.