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A Still Year by Jonathan Beckett
Most short films tend to develop their plot basis around a certain situational crux that simply revolves a revelation that begins and propels characters to a point of no return. I say this on the basis of short films with a particular reason – most shorts don't have endings, and most importantly, they don't have the 'and then' plot beat of a feature film. And what is unique with A Still Year is its against-the-grain narrative beats… the POV perspective, one which is both a narrative device an empathy triggering tool is the complete opposite design of a short. Here we are hinted at the plot element of that 'revelation', but it is also irrelevant, as time simply moves on and our experience (like in a feature) revolves around the 'and then'.
Simply put, A Still Year is perhaps more of a filmic object than a narrative piece. And this is a very unique and important thing to celebrate. Jonathan Beckett may be unaware of his work, but without a doubt – Abbas Kiarostami's cinema, in which the affixation of a camera inside of a car, the faces of a film audience, or the capturing of stagnant European sites… where these images, moments of light and space become almost 'cinema-in-progress pieces'… is a rare and very special space to be working in.. and is the same sort of brain wave or form of communication that Beckett is exploring.
I have perhaps over-pressed this reference to Kiarostami, but it comes with great care – most filmmakers rarely find the ability to step back from their material and capture simple life items that together, in a particular perspective, become a cinematic experience. Beckett has done this – he has placed us in his literal shoes… but also done so in a way that space, time and the human experience becomes an object of the technical filmic space. It is quite luxurious for a short film.
PS. Congrats on the very believable arm shots of reaching for a phone with the camera as eyes.
The Candidate by
The women of Altındağ – what fantastic performances! – in all seriousness, the team here seems to be always on point. As the camera hits them, they are in mid perforamnce. They are in real life… and the camera does a great enhancement for this – the faces are clear, often we are moving towards them… we are invited to observe and see the micro reactions of each character. It is engaging and interesting to watch thanks to these performers and of course the way they are shot.
The eyes and edits of Altındağ's world in The Candidate is perhaps one of the cleanest photographically and warmest of tones. The image is often nicely balanced with color and professionally polished. If it lacks anything, it is the wildness of an unusual filming style.
The situation of The Candidate is really that of a teasing, alluring and intense series of moments. We are invited into space and quickly wiped through a variety of intimate spaces taht are threatening and genre friendly (ie something people really enjoy – Gothic horror). The sense of time to is in fluid movement… there is a great sense of momentum here. If anything, one feels almost at threat, or perhaps the 'mercy' of the filmmaking team. You the audience are expected to enjoy and keep up with the shape of this film… but it is a delicate dance, and we are the ones quickly thrown out of the circle… we must endure as we trip up, enjoying the sheer presentation and balance of skill at play.
I Wanna Do Christmas With You (Again) by Alex Urquhart
Alex Urquhart has a secret that he might not know.
You see, the music video I Wanna Do Christmas With You (Again) is very charming… It has a great aesthetic, and a pop filled retro vibe – like, this is a sort of 1990's almost boyband charm. It's got the static, the props and the grooves to be self aware, comical and almost like a kind of humanist take on the sub-genre of music videos – the 'breakup' song (or 'make up?'). This is, in its totality, what Alien was to Dark Star's take on sci fi… only, in the context of postmodern music videos.
But, again, that's not the secret that it holds.
Also, before hitting the secret twist tool – it is worth adding that the video has a solid photographic value to it's content. This is to say that the photographic value is quite filmic and nicely created. The lighting really shines here – it feels both 'real' and gritty, but also creative.
But now there's an additional secret – the cream of the whole process: Alex Urquhart himself.
The song isn't the big stealer of the show, but rather Urquhart's performance itself. He shows himself to be a very versatile performer, mainly balancing the blank expressions of having being dumped with the self awareness of the camera's gaze that makes for a secret layering of the video's quality. Urquhart delivers what the video needs: the seed of star quality.
Personal side – I'd love to see Urquhart play a serial killer in an apartment block, a tutor with a desire for a married woman and a cowboy who is getting teased for his inability to stay on any horse (they all kick him off).
Oh Jeff! by Chris Rourke
Chris Rourke, Danel Parquor, and Kyle Strang have written a fairly strange little monster – the kind of monster that well bites your ass and then asks you how it felt. I say this because the film is perhaps one of the most accelerated plots that delve into the surreal subgenre of comedy with such great pleasure. In an unlikely twist, more like a horror film, there's a sort of burnt flavouring of cult practice in this film. It is the kind of film that walks a thin line between comedy and surreal horror… but the comedy, to me, feels as if it is the bigger tip.
All in all, the implemented foundation of dark tones and obscure characters is largely elevated and brought to life by the caricature performances delivered in this project, as well as the fluid photography that helps the project become engaging and memorable.
Perhaps the only unhappy thing is its runtime. It isn't short enough to be an easy one to consume, and it isn't long enough to be a feature… and well, and this is a strange remark to make, but this isn't a show – and it somehow feels like it could have been one of these things. It could have been a tighter, easier and more punchy short… a longer, more drawn out character driven mad-hat event (ie Inland Empire) or a recurring web series fully fledged and strangely altering (ie fluid plots, fluid characters). I guess the real takeaway is this – the tone is lovely and there (i.e. present, and unique)… but perhaps the format is still yet to be perfected by this team. Only more from them will reveal this, and one can easily get excited about what might follow.
The Truth About Us by Jason White
Have you seen Game Night? – Yes.
Did you like Game Night? – Yes.
Do you like character based films? – Yes.
Do you like indie films? – Yes.
Then this film is for you.
The Truth About Us recalls the 90's/00's world of Neil LaBute. There's a small cast, a tight intimate space and a cut throat moving plot. There isn't a world of politics or social mobility in this film, but there are people under attack. There's a moral undertone here, one of a writer going 'in these situations even the wrong seems right, and the right seem wrong.' The study of human nature is in full swing here.
The cast are really solid, carrying the dialogue forward content through the paces… the camera work though is perhaps not the most expressive, and this is where I'd suggest one needs to focus in the future – how can one elevate the content to become more cinematic with the photography.
At the end of the day this is a very solid feature film, and one that is well worth its $8,000 budget – i.e. it is money well spent and quite engaging for its content.
Zaara by Hassan Raza (second review)
Zaara Aslam is an incredible heroine. Her scene: a sheltered, overbearing and overprotective home environment. Her world: stunning black and white photography, bold and realistic performances, and of course – a strong visual coherent understanding of sequencing (i.e. shot A to B to C is very smooth).
The lead performance by Sonera Angel (as Zara) is quite moving. She navigates the space with a careful physic, bringing Zara to life. And the photography almost mirrors this – becoming often a dance of reverse-perspective (i.e. how people view Zara and how she sees or looks around). The anticipation of the film's overall arc builds with Angel's performance, as she attempts to overcome her struggles, our interest rises.
The only real remark I can make now, which comes with a very strong impression, is this: Zaara is one of the best film entries we've had this year (submitted only for a film review). Had it competed in TMBT, we would have awarded it something (this is for sure). Hassan Raza is a real filmmaker with a distinct voice and clear visual story. We can't wait to see him make more, and hope he makes a feature film soon.
Velvet Crush by Michael Boston
Velvet Crush is a wonder of a film. For one, it comes loaded with some incredible casting – mainly Dani Savka and the director himself, Michael Boston. The pair seem to know two key things when it comes to making a seriously entertaining film: film acting is all about the eyes – and if you are trying to convince an audience of a false reality, you (ie the performer) have to be completely convinced by your own performance when in a scene.
The film opens with some stunning night time walks. This is after some almost Blue Velvet pastiche velveted opening credits. There's something about this sequence, and even the premise, that is very 90's. Then we get a touch of voyeurism… It almost feels like a mid-career John Waters film… the Waters with solid photography, impressive genre blending and a nightcap of comedy to send you swinging down the roads… basically – this is a stylish hoot.
The one beautiful thing about running this festival over the course of five years becomes quite obvious in this film. We know Boston and his films well. We've seen him do a variety of genres and we 'get' what he's doing here. He's an author with a wicked sense of humour, one laced with real personality clashes and textures… it's all a bit seductive really.
Zaara by Hassan Raza
The melodrama of Zaara is a strange combination of old and new. At its heart though, in my eyes, it feels more of an old school retro drama than a more modern thing. This isn't due to its black and white photography – but rather its carefully composed shots, feminist characterisation and the strong presence of a style that consistently recalibrates the film's core ideology within a Sirkian type of frame. It recalls Sirk's All I Desire, for me at least…
Of course, though, the film isn't a pastiche of Sirk. Nor is it a very aware film in terms of film references. This is the modern part of the film… there's style, there's a vision… but it is also its own thing. The sheltered life on the edge of becoming a boiling plot feels very much like a Jafar Panahi motif – of course, here it is the UK setting and a Middle Eastern family clashing with the customs of the West and of the so-called 'other'. The ethics are blurred of course, and the painting of the Western men is quite interesting – are they perhaps more of a disruptive force than the parents? Perhaps both parties are wrong, and it is the future generation that shall be wiser? – these are of course, as I said, very modern ideas… and ones that would not be present in a Sirk type homage.
So, all in all – this is a great blend of the old and the new. Black and white photography with careful composition and strong themes from the almost old Hollywood finish appears to be packaging new 'modern issues' – or perhaps rather engaging in ones that still remain quite on the cusp of everyone's political discussions… this film is talking about the 'present moment is what I mean.
The performances almost follow suit – the older performers have great gravity in their physical performances, whilst the young use their faces and expressions to tell us more about how they feel.
This is a highly recommended film – and a fantastic debut by its director. In fact, one gets excited at the thought of the potential feature film that Raza must be working on!
Big Trouble in Seattle by David Fowler
At just over an hour, Fowler's film is quite the epic. For starters, the setting is a genuine character… And I mean this with intent, as many indie films fail to use their locales as a kind of backdrop, often taking a back seat as a background that the film is set in. Here Seattle is lush, alive and dangerous even.
Furthermore, his use of cast, characters, and multilateral dialogue scenes is quite skilled… Almost evidence of his potential for great TV. Though, might I add – I prefer film, and Fowler does a great job in this medium here.
Knowing his age doesn't help. Mr. Fowler is still a young director, and the project is a great bit of work… What I mean regarding this is really simple – I'm somewhat jealous (in a healthy way) that I didn't make this film at Fowler's age. I wish I'd had the intuition, knowledge and resources to do this kind of film.
If distribution has not been secured, then an introduction must be made. This film is a distributor's delight – its genre is clear, distinct and the cast all seems to be having a swell time playing with the appropriate archetypes.
Highly recommended, this indie endeavour welcomes one simple regard – where is the next film due? And is it even bigger?
Geneva Jacuzzi's Casket by Chris Friend
One of the things I've really enjoyed in the last few years is the digital playfulness that music videos have grasped – especially those that have encountered the fantasy and fantastical opportunities that digital filmmaking provides. One such examples is the work of Grimes – her music, her persona and especially her videos inhabit worlds and characters entirely unique to her work… And so, it comes with great excitement to say that Chris Friend's work on this particular whacky music video is no different.
Heads buzz, the digital atmosphere engrosess, hypnotises and we are victim to its wonders – both as consumer and users, as we are… After all… Watching this digital video on a variety of digital screens. The world is alight with colour, music and character – the use of close up is especially rewarding, even unusually so for a music video (it's quite cinematic).
All in all, this is a perfect little trick of digital editing and performance. The world, though artificial, appears real. Real. Or is it reel? 😉
CHAMP 5 by Paul Gatto, David Jester and Kathleen Strouse
From the small communities to the grand victories, Champ 5 has a fantastically 'old school' tale to tell. Now, to be clear – by 'old school' I am not actually referring to the charming gang of golden age interviewees… but rather, the style of the film. It is rare these days to find documentaries on bygone subjects that take great care in finding the character within the landscape from which it comes from, but also framing it within the context of the 'personal'. At least, to me – it feels as if we have entered a new age of consumption when it comes to documentary-style video… those Facebook scroll videos of 'famous person do this, or quaint person does that… someone has a hobby you will find interesting…' – rarely do these videos contain the individual really… they instead, in the worst way possible, have a simplified individual framed within a sort of quirky space. That is not what CHAMP 5 provides, and that is why CHAMP 5 is eh champion!
Humanist elements aside, the film carries a great understanding of the key technical elements of filmmaking. The pace is never compromised, and the photography is well balanced with a tight edit. If anything – CHAMP 5 could be expanded to a feature…. but that's a tale for another day.
Overall, the intimate tales of these individuals, framed within the carefully designed documentary, which captures the bygone era mostly through memorabilia and the 'persons' telling the tales, helps solidify the film as almost a kind of time capsule. Not a capsule of the past, but rather of these individuals' recollections of the past.
Ultimately the film is intimate, personal and above all memorable.
MAGDA by Dimitris Galatas, Fragkiskos Arapai
The short overall is quite great. It actually has a great balance of performance, an awareness of space, and above all: an awareness of 'the way of nature. By this, in my mind, I mean it both in terms of the environmental space: humans appear almost as intruders here in the forest, and the actual act of animal nature – the carnal act of killing.
There's one flaw to this project really: it isn't a feature. It could be one, it could be built bigger: think Chernobyl Diaries – the film could introduce us to the team, how they came about this journey and how they all met… then the horror, then a survivor and how they escaped or failed to do so. There's plenty of room here to bulk it all up.
'Distance' carries a great sort of Stephen King vibe. The film is set in the rural outskirts and follows a kind of survivor plot – or at least a version of it. Of course, many of these kinds of films have arisen since the arrival of Covid, in fact… I think we have about 5% of entries be these sorts of films each season now. However, one must say the following – this is no regular run of the mill 'we are living in a pandemic and reflecting on life film'… this is largely thanks to Schertzer's very mature character set up, the smart dialogue, and above all: the delicate naturalistic dialogue and physicality presented by the actors.
Space is greatly used as well. Framing often positions at a smart angle to highlight the natural beauty of the locale, and furthermore – the film's plot includes this as part of its narrative device, which further enhances the impact of this plot element (the journey).
The downsides: the opening credits are indulgent. The closing credits could do with a bit more detail – a better font, less large. Overall though, the film is really quite nicely stylized, and a great offering during these strange times.
The thing I love about Project Bau is the personal journey being told to us. At its heart – it is very much just that: a personal, a single individual's journey… a being. Not a toy, not a genre… but an individual.
There is a grand location for which the cinematography awes and sweeps around. It is a heartful backdrop to our lead character, Peter, an elderly man taken with a dog. The lead performance here is key – he is a rough man aware of his delivery, and does so with a kind of ballet strike – the physical and sounds are real and part of the dance of life.
The tension is light-handed and very easy – we know what we are supposed to feel and we feel it. Likewise, the sense of culture is engrained in the locale and the personas presented – this is an individual tale of struggle and survival, but also of the mind and the apt nature of a single person's determination to survive.
The film itself is a well-polished endeavor. some of the grading at times is a bit indulgent, but this is also overall forgiven by the film's own subject nature – it is a tale of a man in the final bloom of his being, and it is here that of course roses would smell more like strong roses than just a plain flower. Likewise, and perhaps by the time we reach the final sweeping camera angle, the film has reached a kind of Douglas Sirk height of melodrama: the world is beautiful, a playground only loved and devoured by those who can find love and an appetite in life for themselves.


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One of the most popular questions that we get is this one: "Just what is surrogate mother pay in Battle Mountain NV" Of course, anyone who is willing to devote at least 9 months of their lives to really aiding someone else become a mom or dad is someone that demands reimbursement. Most US surrogates, and almost all surrogates in Battle Mountain NV earn remuneration for their very valuable services. This is a service that you give, and just like if you were to spend 9 months performing plumbing work, building music, or training someone, you warrant good pay.
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So just what is surrogate mother pay in Battle Mountain NV It depends on the state, the organization, and even on the individual surrogate. Most agencies will pay somewhere between $24,000 and $60,000 for your services.
The most necessary thing to do is talk to an agency that you are interested in working with. Though what surrogate mother pay in Battle Mountain NV is very important, identifying that you are taken care of by professionals is important as well. Knowing that you are healthy is important. Knowing that the intended parents have your best interests in mind as well is fundamental. Talk to a surrogate agency about your own particular compensation.
Surrogate Mother Pay in Battle Mountain NV: Location, Area, Location
One of the biggest sources of surrogate mother pay in Battle Mountain NV is just that– what your home state is and where you reside. There are particular parts of the world and even the country where a surrogate will bring in more. This has to do with many different things– clinical care, how much work you need to do, and many other aspects.
It is no secret that a number of cities, like Battle Mountain NV, may be a far better choice for many people who are looking to be a surrogate. This is because they not only tend to compensate a little more, but because they take much better care of their surrogates. You want to consider the amount of money that you will get with the way that you are handled and how much risk is in the situation for you– and not just bodily.
You will need to figure in wellness expenses (and whether or not they are paid for), traveling (and whether or not it is taken cared of), any legal liabilities that you have to satisfy, and even smaller items like time off work, maternity clothing, healthy meals, and other forms of compensation. All of these items can have a considerable impact on the surrogate and should be taken into consideration when looking at surrogate mother pay in Battle Mountain NV If you are interested in learning out more about how much surrogates make in Battle Mountain NV or how much compensation you should ask for, please reach out to us using the form on the right or by calling us with any surrogacy related concerns.
What is Repeat Surrogate Mother Pay in Battle Mountain NV
Repeat surrogates can expect to make increased compensation in Battle Mountain NV These are top surrogates and are completely expected earn more money when they are surrogates once again– either for the same intended parent(s) or for different intended parent(s).
These surrogates tend to receive higher compensation because they know what they are doing and won't require as much coaching.
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Surrogate Mother Pay in Battle Mountain NV: Multiples
If you are a surrogate that is meant to carry more than one embryo, you might be authorized to receive more money. Every now and then, this occurs without medical intervention but other times, it is because there has been more than one embryo implanted.
When there are more babies being carried, it is highly likely that the surrogate will receive more in the form of compensation– even if it wasn't intended that the mother will carry more than one child.
Surrogate Mother Pay in Battle Mountain NV
At the end of the day, if you are interested in being a surrogate, one of the most common problems you are likely to have is this one: "What is surrogate mother pay in Battle Mountain NV" Of course, you are doing a service and you should anticipate that you are going to be paid for your job– and being a surrogate is a lot of time.
If you are interested in becoming a surrogate, or you want to find out more about how much surrogates earn, what the requirements are for being a surrogate, and even what is demanded of a surrogate, CLICK HERE to get in contact with us.

subset: commoncrawl


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The unexpected scratching of one of the state's top middle distance runners certainly sent shockwaves through the Multi-Sport Facility on the campus on Penn State University on Sunday.
But for Liam Conway, the fact that Josh Hoey was up in Boston chasing the national high school record in the 800 meters, didn't do much to alter his approach to the two races he was entered in at the PTFCA Indoor State Championships.
It was still all about the kick.
Conway, an Owen J. Roberts senior and Stanford recruit, knows how talented Hoey is: "Josh is an incredible competitor. He's like no other," he said. But with or without Hoey in the field, Conway also knows that these championship races usually come down to the kick.
He used his kick to run down the field to take second to state record holder Noah Affolder at last year's indoor state meet. He took third in a chaotic AAA 1,600 meters at outdoor states this past spring. So the veteran racer is no stranger to these high stakes races.
"Hearing (Hoey) wouldn't be here changed the gameplan a little bit, but not too drastically," Conway said. "For these championship meets, it's sort of a sit-and-kick type technique."
So, first came the mile. In addition to Conway, the field also included others hungry for a first state title like Noah Beveridge of Butler and Evan Addison of LaSalle. Conway hung in the pack, and with two laps to go, that trio separated themselves from the field. Beveridge made his intentions known and went for the win. But Conway stuck right on his shoulder and made his move around the final turn, powering home for the win in 4:15.26.
"Going through my head the entire race was just trusting in my kick that I have in the end," Conway said after the race. "Thankfully, it worked out today."
As he crossed the finish line, Conway's arms went in the air, a scene we've seen a few times over the past year. But there was little time for his celebration to continue. The 800 meters was waiting in a few hours.
"The mentality today was just focus one (race) at a time," he said. "After the mile, I knew I had to refocus and get out there for the eight."
So he told his coaches the same thing he said to them last year in between races: "I'll do what I can."
But through the first few laps, it might have looked like he didn't have enough gas in the tank to pull off the double. He went straight to the back of the pack and stayed there through 400 meters. Neumann Goretti's Kamil Jihad and Ephrata's Tyler Shue took the field through the midway point in 56-low after a blazing 26-mid first 200.
But then Conway noticed the pace start to slow.
He made his move towards the front and slid into third with 200 meters to go. He sat on Shue, just like he did with Beveridge in the mile earlier in the day, and then made the decisive move to the lead around the final turn. He was then home free once more.
Conway crossed first in 1:53.51 for the win---another perfectly executed race.
"I regrouped myself and got back into that pack, and at that point I think I knew deep in me that I could pull something out," Conway said of falling behind early and catching back up.
"And it worked out."
Two races, two kicks, and two wins for Conway. It was a tremendous performance and one that won't be forgotten for a long time. Conway surely won't.
"I going to remember this forever," he said.
If there's such thing as a winning formula, Conway knows all the ingredients. And on Sunday at least, he was one of the few that knew the recipe.


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Brooklyn Beckhams Photography Book —
MTV News Cuts Long Form : Making It Up 5
Podcast Feature
Reading Time:
In this latest cross-time zone MAEKAN It Up, Eugene and Charis talk about the latest casualty in long-form online publishing and the price of fame. With an inability to monetize effectively and a lack of journalistic support from the very industry it reports on, MTV News has recently cut its long-form content and pivoted toward video. On the somewhat less serious side, Brooklyn Beckham's become the laughing stock of photographers and the Internet itself with the release of his new photography book "what I see."
As always, follow Eugene's journey as the budding illustrator that never was as he learns (or fails to learn) from Charis' example.
MAEKAN It Up draws from our topical newsletter "the Briefing," published twice a week.You can subscribe to MAEKAN It Up and other audio stories via your favorite podcast app or platform.
If you'd like periodic updates from us, subscribe to our newsletter!
© Maekan 2022 All Rights Reserved


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Mustang Police Captain retiring after being with department for 36 years
Managing Editor
When Jim Davis came to work for the Mustang Police Department in October of 1980, there were only nine patrol officers and four patrol cars.
"Back then the Oldsmobile Cutlass was our patrol vehicle," Davis said. "It had a top speed of 85 miles per hour."
Davis is retiring as Captain of the Mustang Police Department at the end of the year. He planned on retiring before he was promoted to the position almost two years ago.
"I told them that I would do it, but for two years," he said.
Prior to working in Mustang, Davis served in the U.S. Army as a military policeman and also served two years overseas in Korea. In October of 1980 he applied for and was hired by the Mustang Police Department when LeRoy Cinammon was the police chief.
From 1980 to 1982, he worked in the patrol division as a patrolman before he received a Master Patrolman promotion. In 1983, he was promoted to Sergeant and later transferred to the detective division. In 1986, he became a Lieutenant and transferred back to the patrol division.
From 1992 to 1998, he served as a firearm instructor in the patrol division.
A milestone in his career happened in 1999 when he was only one of 12 officers in the state to be selected to attend the FBI National Academy for training.
"It was a great learning experience," he said. "It was a very competitive selection process and I was fortunate enough to be one of the twelve to go."
Throughout his career with the department, his service did not go unnoticed.
Davis received a letter of appreciation from the Canadian County District Attorney in 2003 for helping in the conviction of a subject in a rape case. In 2005, he received recognition for his investigation of a domestic violence case and in 2008 he received a letter of appreciation from the FBI for apprehending an individual that was considered a threat to national security.
Now, with a total of 36 years at the Mustang Police Department, and serving under eight police chiefs, the longest tenured employee in the history of the department said it is now time to move on.
Police Chief Rob Groseclose was informed of Davis' upcoming retirement when he recently came to Mustang. City policy allows the police chief to select a Captain from one of his Lieutenants who have at least two years of experience and no disciplinary actions.
The position may be changed to Deputy Chief, which allows the police chief to choose anyone in the department. The Captain position is not a contract position and is more of a management position which is paid by salary, rather than hourly.
"Mustang is unique because there is an excellent relationship between city management and the police department here," Davis said. "I have enjoyed working here and enjoyed the relationships and friendships I have made here over the years. Being in police services, there are its highs and lows, but I would say I am going to miss the people the most."
Davis said he is entertaining the thought of being a reserve officer after he retires.


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Threads: Walker 2.01 "They Started It"
The Morning After
Welcome Back, Walker!
I have to admit it was comforting to have Jared and his new Walker family back on my television screen again. It's been 11 weeks since season one's finale cliffhanger teased us with the image of "big brother" spying on Cordell and his parents' homes. That's a very intriguing plot twist that I've been anxious to see unfold in season two. I'm also intrigued by the question of whether Cordell was the primary target of the assassination attempt at the courthouse. What could that ranger possibly have done to warrant a contract hit? Walker's season 2 premiere episode, "They Started It", reminded us of both of these mysteries. In addition, it introduced numerous new questions that have the potential to drive an interesting season.
The "Del Rio Situation"
The tangential plotline of the Cordell family's danger is Micki's now 3-month long undercover investigation into some kind of organization in Del Rio, Texas. Captain James thinks this group might be responsible for the climatic shooting last season. Since they are obviously going to be a big piece of the puzzle, I thought it would be prudent to go back to 1.18 "Drive" to revisit all the information we were given on this suspicious crew.
Capt. James: The Del Rio situation– it's looking like ex-military.
Micki: Oh, yeah, I crossed there when I served, sir.
Capt. James: I know. That's why I'd like your eyes on this if you're interested.Micki: Undercover?
Capt. James: Look, it might be that Stan wasn't the target. I took a look at the CCTV footage. The first hit was definitely on Walker.
Micki: You think someone was trying to kill Walker? This Del Rio group?
I was relieved to discover that my confusion about "this Del Rio group" wasn't due to poor memory or senility but rather because we really weren't given much to go on about this new menace. All we were told is that there is a "situation" that's "looking like ex-military." What does that mean? Are they unimportant guns-for-hire working for the real culprit who started the corruption and ambush in Austin, or are they a paramilitary gang who didn't have a war to fight when they returned from active duty so they became the drug cartel behind the Northside Nation? It's very unclear – perhaps purposely so. I don't know if we'll get more clarification as the story progresses or if their role as the "big bad" will continue as nothing more than a vague threat. I'm hoping the former so we can better understand who they are and why they are suspected of being connected to the corrupt commissioner who was shot. Without that context to frame the danger that is underpinning Micki and Cordell's stories (and continuing last season's tendency of needing to fill in details that are assumed in the episode), I thought we could at least better understand where they are, and where Micki is undercover.
Del Rio is a 4.25 hour drive (234 miles) southwest of Austin, on the border of Mexico.
Named the "The Friendliest Little Border Town in Texas" by Southern Living magazine, Del Rio is home of the Laughlin Air Force Base, the busiest training facility for the United States Air Force (according to Google). Del Rio has only around 36,000 people, so its classification as "little" town is fairly accurate. Lest this turn into a 5th grade geography report, that's enough information to at least understand that it was no small feat for Trey to drop in on Micki at a random trivia night bar (that he said he had spent weeks trying to find), nor for Cordell to get tailed on his unannounced trip to his partner's operation.
Ironically, it was Stella who recognized and voiced the practical, logistical difficulty of Cordell and Micki being rangers who cover the entire state of Texas:
Stella: Okay. I'm just… I'm freaking a little because my dad didn't come home last night, which never feels great.
August: Stella, don't worry. It's a case case, not a Duke case, all right? He's coming back.
At least someone noticed that a 8.5 hour round trip, plus time taken to confront your MIA law enforcement partner, draw guns, and get into fights, keeps one away from home for a while (and Trey was sure doing a lot of driving back and forth!)
The Past is (not so much) in the Past
Back home on the ranch, season 2 opened with new neighbors moving in next door – or rather old neighbors moving back, complete with bad feelings, old grudges and lots of jaded history in tow.
Cordell: We've known each other since we were kids, and I imagine the D.A.'s office and the Rangers will be working closely together.
Denise: A lot's happened since we were kids. So, why don't both of us just put the past behind us.
As someone who spent the last year trying to come to terms with losing a past life he treasured, this season Cordell is the voice of reason, encouraging just about everyone around him, personally and professionally, to let go of the past:
But my point is I don't want to, just, you know, kick up the dust on some old family feud. I am finally ready to keep the past in the past
Personally, I'm not all that excited about a Hatfields and McCoys drama plotline. There's a reason I didn't watch Dallas all those years ago. The idea of reconciling past traumas in order to live a healthier life in the present is an idea that drove much of season 1, however. As early as 1.06 "Bar None", we identified the thread of trying to recreate (or idealize) the past in order to avoid pain or justify behavior in the present. Last year, Cordell, his children, his brother and his parents all struggled to face uncomfortable truths about their past. Everyone buried their grief over Emily's death, but Cordell most of all. August and Stella had to forgive their dad's past emotional and physical absence. Abeline and Bonham had to move forward after her past affair. Liam tried recreating the past when he used his grandfather's (great grandfather's?) campaign signs, and had to face his fears to reconcile with Bret (when/why did Bret move back to New York, by the way? Last I knew, he had a condo in Austin.). Everyone learned that dealing with old wounds is necessary for individual and interpersonal happiness.
Although the pettiness of the Davidson mom, son-in-law and grandson was very tiresome to watch, maybe their long held biases is the next iteration of the thread of moving on from the past. Perhaps their self-righteous audacity will provide fertile ground to explore how one lets go of inbred hatreds. There also seem to be ample misunderstandings and differing memories of the past to unravel. Hurt can run deep, and over time, causes scars that turn into blind hostility. Even Stella's recognition of her PTSD from last year's events was a refreshing acknowledgement that emotions, whether formed in the moment or from months or years of pain, greatly impact people's perspective.
Stella: I think I'm still messed-up about stuff that happened last year.
Trey: That's fair.
Stella: And when it comes to family, it's just like I get aggro now. I just… I don't want something to happen again.
Trey: Yeah, I get that.
Stella: And, also, I'm supposed to think about college and decide my entire, like, life path? How do I do that?
Trey: Well, there are steps. It's a process, Stella… I went through three jobs in the past year alone. It's okay to take a minute to figure things out.
I believe Trey was referring to more than the process of choosing a college. Addressing Stella's bigger issue, he was referring to the process of healing. My favorite line of the episode was Trey telling Stella that it's okay to take a moment to figure things out. Sometimes you have to hit the pause button on life in order to build a healthier future. If that is Jared's and the show's mental health message this season, I will patiently watch the two families go from jabs and undercuts, confusion and assumptions, to truths and healing. That's a worthwhile process to exemplify.
Title Thread – "They Started It"
Colton: They started it!
Stella: He's lying!
Liam: And now she stole my job. She stole it.
Liam: They started it!
Cordell: Then let's end it!
This season opened with two generations of Davidsons and Walkers blaming each other for all the things they saw going wrong in their lives.
Colton recognized people he was supposed to hate because of what his grandmother had told him, but Stella and August were too quick to escalate a bad situation with a stranger because of their internalized fears.
Liam is rightfully hurting because of the humiliation of losing a job to someone who appeared out of nowhere to usurp Austin's position of power, so, like Stella and August, he was also too quick to react to the taunting by the Davidsons.
Both the kids' and the adults' fights primed questions of who was to blame. Who started the high school fight? Was it the road rage and verbal insults? Who keyed Stella's car? Who threw the first punch? The questions of blame for these relatively small incidents were answered quickly in the episode.
What happened to Liam, and to a lesser extent Abeline and Bonham, had decades to fester and get buried under years of rewriting history so those questions are much more complex and will undoubtedly be investigated and revealed slowly throughout the season:
What were the circumstances surrounding Abeline's broken engagement? Who's to blame for those hurt feelings?
Who started the barn fire? Who's to blame for the Davidson's dad's death?
Is the Davidson's return related to the guy watching the Walkers? Did the mysterious power that ruled the former corrupt commissioner and DA pull some strings to keep the Walkers out of the DA position? The Davidsons' return and Denise "stealing" the job of District Attorney from Liam seems just a bit too convenient.
Where does Northside Nation's grip on Austin start? Who's behind the shooting and placing Cordell in the crosshairs?
Is Micki's undercover immersion really to protect Cordell, or is she falling into the same escapism trap that engulfed him? Who's to blame for her not checking in, not calling home, and wanting "more time" as her alias?
"They Started It" superbly illustrated how misunderstandings escalate into fights, and how time reshapes our perceptions of history to fit our own narratives. Consider Micki's conversation with Walker, for example. Throughout the entire scene I was thinking, "Say what now??" She's doing the same thing to herself that he did to himself while he was undercover so he won't do it again to himself –so he has to stop her from doing it to herself? Who's blaming who for what there?
Morgan is going to get blamed for being a traitor until he gets out of lockup and points the finger at… who? He didn't know Micki's name yet, per her own admission. Spider recovered the confiscated drugs so why was he killed? It seemed his car was simply towed so why would Serano think he had been betrayed? Perceptions, blame and confusion were the underlying themes in "They Started It" to set up season 2.
Secrets and Lies
Bonham told Abeline "No more secrets" which I propose is a clever textual transition from last season's "secrets" (or purposely withholding truths) theme that was threaded into many episodes, to this season's focus on differing perceptions of truths. It's too soon to know how that will manifest as a thread – perhaps blame or, more likely, the search for truth – but it reflects a maturing of the family and the show away from childish secret keeping to the complexities of fooling ourselves rather than others. If addressed with that sophistication, this season will be a worthwhile psychological journey.
Time Will Tell
"They Started It" was an apt play on words for Walker's second season's premiere episode. Overall, I'm happy with how they (the writers and producers of Walker), started it (their second season). If the danger looming over the Walker family is the primary mystery that is pursued, as family feuds explore lessons of biases and perceptions, this will be an interesting season. Echoing Cordell's words that were presumably intended for his fans, "I missed you, too" Walker!
– Nightsky
What did you think of this episode? Please share your thoughts below!
Catch up on Walker Reviews, and news on the cast and show on The WFB's Walker Page!
Scan Walker and Supernatural reviews, analysis and fun on Nightsky's Writer's Page!
"They Started It" Transcript courtesy of TV Show Transcripts
1.18 "Drive" quote courtesy of TV Show Transcripts


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Jubilee 2020
Sister Kathleen Johnson, CSC
Celebrating Her Golden Jubilee
Sister Kathleen has two living siblings: Patrick (73) and Colleen (63). Another sister, Maureen, passed away at age 52. Her mother, Alice Murphy, was born and raised in County Kilkenny, Ireland. Alice travelled to London just before England entered World War II to start nursing school and midwifery training. She remained in London for the duration of the war.
It was World War II that brought her parents together. Sister Kathleen's father was a GI in the Army, stationed in London for army intelligence. One Sunday, they met in Hyde Park, London, England, where they started their whirlwind courtship—as was shared with her over the years. Her parents were later married in Lewistown, Pennsylvania, in May 1947.
Sister Kathleen and her family members have a deep appreciation for both immediate and extended family, their Irish roots, and their German American heritage.
About her ministry
Sister Kathleen Johnson professed her initial vows with the Sisters of the Holy Cross on August 15, 1970, and her perpetual vows on August 3, 1975.
Sister Kathleen has spent 23 years of her ministry with the Archdiocese of Washington, D.C., 10 years with the Diocese of Columbus, Ohio, and seven years with the Diocese of Arlington, Virginia. Sister Kathleen then pursued her bachelor's degree before returning to teach elementary and high school children from 1974 to 1982. During that time, she began her work in campus ministry and completed her graduate studies in Silver Spring, Maryland.
Her work in campus ministry continued for a total of 21 years; she finished at the Academy of the Holy Cross in Kensington, Maryland (2001–2008). She later transitioned to ministry at Holy Cross Hospital, Silver Spring, where she served until 2012. She now resides at Saint Mary's in Notre Dame, Indiana, providing internal ministry.
Send a message!
Send Sister Kathleen a note, prayer, poem, photo, favorite memory or message using the button below. They will be collected on kudoboard.com and presented in both a slideshow and Blessing Book for her to enjoy. The deadline to be included in the printed book is July 22, 2021.
Getting to know her
My favorite activities:
I enjoy genealogy, working on family history, photography, cross-stitching and reading (especially historical works and mysteries).
Favorite time of ministry and most memorable:
My favorite time in ministry was the 22 years in high school and college campus ministry. I cherished the special interactions with faculty and students: praying with them, listening and supporting them through the good times and the sad ones; visiting patients in hospitals; leading prayer services and retreats; taking students on cultural immersion and service trips. During my 10 years at Holy Cross Academy in Kensington, Maryland, I helped lead over 30 Kairos retreats. These four-day retreats were very special experiences for students and faculty.
Another special time was my 10 years as Director of Campus Ministry at Mount Carmel. Those years were especially enriching for me. My mom and sister, Maureen, were nurses. I wanted to be a nurse, too. That was not the path I chose, however. I have a great affinity for nurses. A dear friend once said to me, "Kathy, I think God has brought the two loves of your life together" (campus ministry and nursing). How true her vision was!
A favorite story:
Four years ago, I had the privilege and joy to celebrate the 100th birthday of Sister Marie Julie. Sister "Julie" is one of the kindest persons I've ever known. There are hundreds of us who feel so blessed to call her "friend." Many are former students from Saint Patrick's Academy in Washington, D.C. Sister Julie is a woman of great faith and prayer. The impact Sister Julie had on myself, and so many others, was evidenced by the outpouring of love and support in honor of her centennial birthday!
My favorite songs:
Pachelbel's "Canon"
Shaina Noll's "How Could Anyone"
Whitney Houston's "Greatest Love of All"
Josh Groban's "You Raise Me Up"


text: Stacey joined the Worldwide Foam Team in February of this year as the Product Development Manager. She takes the lead on researching, assessing, and coordinating new product development projects. This new role allows us to broaden and widen our product offerings to better meet customers' needs. Prior to Worldwide Foam, she worked in foam fabricating for 25 years. When she is not working with foam, she likes to hang out with her family and friends, preferably at the beach.


text:
WBLK Buffalo News Headlines 12-26-17
Here are your News Headlines for 12-26-2017:
(Weather Today: Partly cloudy. A few flurries or snow showers possible. High 12F. Winds W at 15 to 25 mph.)
Lake Effect Snow Warning In Effect:
CDC Warns Flu Season May Reach Peek This Week & Next:
A Look At Holiday Gas Prices IN Buffalo:
Local Cashier Scares Robber Away By Doing This...


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Cops Helping Cops meets with rescuee, Martina Diolulu, for the first time since she was rescued Cops helping Cops, took a break from meetings on Saturday and Headed to Baton Rouge, LA for a very special reunion. 63 year old Martina Diolulu survived 10 days in water, sometimes as high as her waist, with no food, water or sleep. This would be the first time since Martina was rescued, that she would see some of the people who rescued her almost a year ago. Undersheriff Dave fowler and Chris Lyons met Martina Saturday evening and it was very emotional for all. Martina then got another surprise when Chris and Dave gave her a DVD player so she could watch her rescue unfold. Her rescue had been caught on tape last September 8 by NBC's Dateline. "It was tough to watch", Chris said, "She was one of the last people taken out of that mess". Dave and Chris spoke for hours with Martina while she cooked them an official Southern Louisiana meal. Afterwards, it was decided that Martina wanted to visit where she once lived. Martina was brought back to New Orleans late Saturday night and Sunday, they headed over to where it all began. "When we rescued Martina over a year ago, I marked her house with a symbol used by Search and Rescue teams and it said that we had found a survivor", Chris said. "And now I have a picture of Martina standing under it a year later in perfect health. Its one of the best moments anyone could ask for". Undersheriff Dave Fowler spoke with Martina about how she felt being back there. "She was floored as she walked through the door and saw the disaster left behind", he said. "However, she was happy to be alive and have a second chance". Martina, like many others, lost everything she owned. But if you ask her, she is the happiest lady in the world. "God sent these men to me. Without them I wouldn't be here. It's another reason that just shows God is great!' |
Send mail to
firstname.lastname@example.com with questions
or comments about this web site.
Copyright © 2005-2006 Cops Helping Cops, Inc.


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Agent Special
The Crane Luxury Resort in Barbados is offering travel agents an opportunity to experience the property with special rates throughout the summer and fall of 2017.
Approved agents travelling between April 22 and Dec. 23 can book a Junior Garden Suite for US$185 per night, a One Bedroom Ocean View Suite for US$270 per night or a One Bedroom Ocean View Suite with a Plunge Pool for US$330 per night. Prices include breakfast daily and all taxes and service charges.
As an added bonus, agents arriving on Saturdays and staying for seven nights will receive one night free.
To take advantage of these rates, contact Canlink Travel Representatives at [email protected] or 905-235-9091.


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The elite men's and women's field and how to watch and follow live streaming coverage of the 2021 Bank of America Chicago Marathon on Sunday (10). Endurance running supporters have been waiting for this event all year for this World Athletics Elite Platinum Label road race event, and they will be able to follow all the action live on several streaming platforms.
Both starting lineups will feature several seasonal runners and debutants, while the US charge will be led by Sara Hall and Galen Rupp. Sunday's race follow the actions in Berlin and London in recent weeks.
Where to watch the 2021 Chicago Marathon?
For those looking to watch live action in the United States and Mexico, you can stream the coverage on NBCSN, NBC 5, NBCChicago.com or and NBC Chicago APP. Telemundo will provide a broadcast as well on TelemundoChicago.com and the Telemundo Chicago app. 670 The Score Sports Radio will provide complete live radio coverage View results for the 2021 Bank of America Chicago Marathon. For more race day information, please click here
For those looking to watch the coverage across the rest of the world, the Eurosport APP will provide action from 13.15 BST (GMT +1), while Flotrack will stream the action in Canada and Australia.
Photo Highlights from the 2019 Bank of America Chicago Marathon
2019 Bank of America Chicago Marathon
2021 Bank of America Chicago Marathon Race day schedule – all times are in US Central (GMT +5):
**Action airs from 7 – 11 a.m. CST
- Marathon Wheelchair Start (men): 7:20 a.m.
- Marathon Wheelchair Start (women): 7:21 a.m
- Marathon Handcycle Start: 7:23 a.m
- Wave 1 Start (red): 7:30 a.m
- Wave 2 Start (blue): 8 a.m
- Wave 3 Start (orange): 8:35 a.m.
- Leaderboard
- Bonus Competition
- Tracking
- My Runners
Kenyans Reuben Kipyego and Ruth Chepngetich headline the respective fields, with world marathon champion Chepngetich entering the women's race with a PB of 2:17:08, the fourth on the women's marathon all-time list.
American Hall starts with the second-fastest time among the entrants on Sunday with a PB of 2:20:32 and she will be targeting something event quicker as she keeps her eye on Deena Kastor's US record of 2:19:36.
Meanwhile, on the men's side, Kipyego comes in with a PB of 2:03:55 set at the Milan Marathon in May and the 25-year-old will start the Chicago Marathon as the second fastest man in 2021.
The race will also see fourth other men with PB faster then 2:04:00, as Seifu Tura (ETH), Dickson Chumba (KEN), Chalu Deso (ETH), Kengo Suzuki (JPN) will also toe the starting line.
Rupp, the Rio 2016 Olympic bronze medallist, is back in action nine weeks after his eighth place in the Tokyo Olympic marathon. He has a PB of 2:06:07.
2021 Bank of America Chicago Marathon Elite fields
Ruth Chepngetich (KEN) 2:17:08
Sara Hall (USA) 2:20:32
Vivian Kiplagat (KEN) 2:21:11
Keira D'Amato (USA) 2:22:56
Meseret Belete (ETH) 2:24:54
Emma Bates (USA) 2:25:27
Diane Nukuri (USA) 2:27:50
Lindsay Flanagan (USA) 2:28:08
Bria Wetsch (USA) 2:29:50
Michele Lee (USA) 2:30:31
Alia Gray (USA) 2:30:41
Carrie Dimoff (USA) 2:30:54
Daiana Ocampo (ARG) 2:31:33
Maegan Krifchin (USA) 2:32:47
Tristin Van Ord (USA) 2:32:56
Whitney Macon (USA) 2:33:21
Jane Bareikis (USA) 2:33:54
Polina Hodnette (USA) 2:35:41
Kate Bazeley (CAN) 2:36:35
Chirine Njeim (LBN) 2:36:40
Georgia Porter (USA) 2:36:52
Anne-Marie Blaney (USA) debut
Megan O'Neil (USA) debut
Sarah Pagano (USA) debut
Olivia Pratt (USA) debut
Carrie Verdon (USA) debut
Jessica Watychowicz (USA) debut
Reuben Kipyego (KEN) 2:03:55
Seifu Tura (ETH) 2:04:29
Dickson Chumba (KEN) 2:04:32
Chalu Deso (ETH) 2:04:53
Kengo Suzuki (JPN) 2:04:56
Shifera Tamru (ETH) 2:05:18
Eric Kiptanui (KEN) 2:05:47
Galen Rupp (USA) 2:06:07
Fikre Bekele (ETH) 2:06:27
Abdi Ibrahim Abdo (BRN) 2:08:32
Ian Butler (USA) 2:09:45
Ivan Gonzalez (COL) 2:11:07
Emmanuel Roudolff-Levisse (FRA) 2:11:20
Colin Mickow (USA) 2:11:22
Wilkerson Given (USA) 2:11:44
Willy Canchanya (PER) 2:12:33
Tyler Jermann (USA) 2:12:40
Chris Derrick (USA) 2:12:50
Josh Izewski (USA) 2:13:15
Mike Sayenko (USA) 2:13:34
Nico Montanez (USA) 2:14:07
John Tello (COL) 2:14:19
Alan Peterson (USA) 2:14:45
Dan Kremske (USA) 2:14:53
Turner Wiley (USA) 2:17:00
Brett Lustgarten (USA) 2:17:18
Kurt Roeser (USA) 2:17:59
Oscar Medina (USA) 2:18:45
Reed Fischer (USA) 2:24:48
Clayton Young (USA) 2:29:46
Abdisamed Abdi (USA) debut
Ben Kendell (USA) debut
Ian La Mere (USA) debut
Zach Panning (USA) debut
Gonzalo Parra (USA) debut
Jacob Thomson (USA) debut


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4 nutrition tips for runners
As the weather warms, you're likely anxious to ditch the treadmill and head outside for your workouts. If you are like me, exercising outdoors is a much better experience and a great chance to bump up your workouts while getting some fresh air and vitamin D (sun!).
A great way to motivate your spring training is to sign up for an outdoor race like a 5K, half marathon or full marathon. A summer or fall race means you should start your training now!
What you eat plays a huge role in your training plan. If you are fueling properly, you will feel energized during your runs and gradually get stronger and faster. However, failing to do so can have an equally negative impact on your training. Here are a few great nutrition tips to help you gain the most benefits from your spring training plan.
Carbohydrates are key
If you are training for an endurance event (at least 10 miles), you do not want to be following a carbohydrate-controlled diet. Very few people can perform well on a low-carb diet during an endurance event. One thing to remember about carbs is that they are our body's main fuel source. There is a reason that endurance athletes consume high-carb meals, like pasta, leading up to an endurance event and that is to maximize their glycogen (or carbohydrate) reserves. One of the first things that will make you "hit a wall" during a long run is depleted glycogen. The key is to eat carbs throughout the day so that your glycogen levels are high. As your mileage increases, you may want increase your carbohydrate intake.
- Drink up!
The other factor that will lead to hitting a wall quickly is dehydration. If you have as little as a 2-percent decrease in body weight from water loss during exercise then you can experience a decrease in performance. You can easily estimate how much fluid you lose during a run. Simply weigh yourself before and after a long training run. Make sure to add in any fluids consumed during the run to that number.
Make sure to consume fluids throughout the entire day of the event. If you are running for 45 minutes or more, drink fluids during your run. Be sure to drink 16 to 32 ounces of fluids per pound loss during your run to adequately rehydrate. I also recommend a drink with some added electrolytes, like a sports drink, to replace those lost through sweat.
- Consider some fuel during your long run
Another great way to preserve your glycogen levels is to consume an easily digested carbohydrate like a sports drink, sports gel or sports beans during your run. Sport gel are carbohydrates that can be quickly absorbed into the blood supply and provide you with a burst of calories and nutrients.
- Don't forget your recovery meal
After a long run, make sure to have a good recovery meal. Within an hour of your run, aim to eat a meal containing a 4:1 ratio of carbs to protein. Protein repairs and rebuilds muscle after your intense workout. And don't forget those fluids and electrolytes. Chocolate milk is a great post-run drink, as it contains a high-quality protein, some extra carbohydrates to replace your glycogen and fluid to replace fluid loss and electrolytes. If you are going the chocolate milk route, aim for at least 16 ounces. If you are not a chocolate milk fan or do not tolerate dairy, a well-rounded meal with adequate fluids will do the trick as well.
Kacie Vavrek, MS, RD, CSSD, is an outpatient dietitian for Ohio State Jameson Crane Sports Medicine Institute, Nutrition Services Clinic. She is board certified in nutrition, exercise science and sports dietetics.


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Union County, NJ – Parents in search of at-home educational activities for their children are invited to view the Union County Falcon Cam, an online livestream of the peregrine falcon nest located on the roof of the County Courthouse in midtown Elizabeth. The livestream is available free of charge on the County website, at ucnj.org/falcon.
"As a parent, I know it is difficult to keep children occupied, engaged, and cheerful during this challenging time," said Union County Freeholder Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded. "The Falcon Cam provides an opportunity to step into the world of a truly fascinating bird, and follow along as a new generation is born."
"The female – named Frida – laid her first egg this morning, and we expect she will lay more over the next few days," Ms. Palmieri-Mouded explained.
The Union County Courthouse has hosted a nesting pair of falcons since 2006, partnering on preservation and educational programs with the New Jersey Division of Fish & Wildlife, and with Conserve Wildlife Foundation of New Jersey.
For updates and information on Union County services impacted by the COVID-19 outbreak, visit ucnj.org/coronavirus-update.
# #
For all Union County programs and services visit ucnj.org, call the Public Info Line, 877-424-1234, email email@example.com or use the online Contact Form.
Connect with Union County on social media.


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What does an oasis and a coral reef have in common?
No, this is not the start of a bad joke or a riddle (although the obvious answer is probably water) but have you ever wondered how oases occur in the desert? How can these areas flush with trees and shrubs, teeming with life occur in the barren arid desert environments? If you haven't, then take a moment to ponder, try it. It is probably not what you think. While there are many different factors that give rise to the creation of desert oases, one of them might be very surprising. It begins with organisms not visible to the naked eye.
Microbes in Israel's Negev desert are uniquely suited to their environment. The bacteria and cyanobacteria have developed a method of binding the sand into a black crust by secreting long-chain sugars. This allows their colonies to maintain moisture during intense desert heat. These black crusts also benefit other organisms making their homes in the desert environment. These crusts increase water retention by about 30% after a downpour. Holes dug by desert porcupines (I didn't know these existed either) allows some of this water to be retained which leads to the formation of miniature oases with many different plant species. These pools allow wind-blown seeds to find a home and germinate which, in turn attracts many other species seeking refuge from the harsh arid desert environment. These microbes that produce an entire ecosystem by their presence can be termed ecosystem engineers.
Engineers are not just people wearing hardhats and high visibility vests holding a clipboard in some sort of construction site doing very important calculations in order to make their project successful. Engineers are responsible in large part for many of the innovations that make everyday life more comfortable. Life would be unrecognisable without the contributions of engineers.
Nature has its own share of engineers responsible for making the life of their fellow ecosystem inhabitants a little bit more bearable. They may not don hardhats and high visibility vests and I dare to suggest they do their calculations in their head, but without these hard working and industrious fellows the landscape of nature might look very different.
The term ecosystem engineer refers to organisms that cause some sort of change, either directly or indirectly, to an environment that would not occur without their presence. In so doing they modify, maintain and/or create habitats. This allows other organisms to benefit from these habitats.
Ecosystem engineers are classed into two broad categories: autogenic engineers which are organisms that modify the environment using their own bodies such as their living or dead tissues, coral reefs for example. Allogenic engineers have the ability to use non-living materials to change the physical state of the environment. The best example of this is human beings. Humans have admittedly taken the concept of allogenic engineering to a whole other level.
The sphere of influence of ecosystem engineers reaches across terrestrial, freshwater and marine environments.
In the marine environment lies organisms who remain hidden but their usefulness should not be judged by their reticence. Living on and in the ocean's floor, that is, the benthic environment, thousands of deposit feeding marine invertebrates in the form of polychaete worms, bivalves and fishes, burrow into the soft sediments. They either eat some part of the sediment or search for other living organisms such as insects to form part of their meal. The burrowing into the sediment also known as bioturbation or soil tilling fundamentally alters the structure of the seafloor not only for themselves but for other organisms. This sediment burrowing creates a highly unfavourable environment for some organisms such as sessile suspension feeders for example, sponges. Others, however, are able to thrive in their newly tilled sediments. Some microbial organisms, and particle feeders are able to take full advantage of these modified environments.
The marine environment's other pretty famous and probably the most important environmental engineers are, of course, coral reefs. Corals build reefs to suit their own needs however they are far from the only organisms that benefit from it. It is widely documented that coral reefs are responsible for high levels of biodiversity accounting for as much as 25% of the oceans' biodiversity. Coral reefs serve the needs of countless other marine species such as brittle stars, anemones, sponges and fishes all of which use them for shelter. Without the existence of reefs many of these species would cease to exist or at the very least be homeless.
Wetlands such as mangrove forests are also important ecosystem engineers. The power of mangrove forests is their ability to aggregate soil by using their roots. This enables them to save coastal areas from erosion. They also treat polluted waters and their dense roots provide refuge for many juvenile species. The detritus created by their leaf litter also forms a valuable food source for juveniles and is an important component of any fisheries food chain. Many commercially important species such as mangrove crabs, prawns and mullet; filter feeding bivalves such as oysters, planktivorous fish such as herring and anchovy species, and higher consumers such as some mud crabs and many other fish including snappers and groupers are found amongst mangrove trees. Probably the most valuable aspect of mangrove forests is their ability to act as a carbon sink much like their other wetland counterparts, seagrasses.
Seagrass beds, due to their carbon sequestering ability can have localised impacts on the physical and biological characteristics of the ocean by lowering the water's pH, an important factor in the fight against ocean acidification. Seagrass leaves also absorb nutrients and slow the flow of water, capturing sand, dirt and silt particles. Their roots trap and stabilise the sediment, which not only helps improve water clarity and quality, but also reduces erosion and buffers coastlines against storms. Seagrasses can further improve water quality by absorbing nutrients in runoff from the land. They also stabilise sediment and trap particulate matter in the water column thereby improving water clarity. They also provide food and shelter for a number of aquatic species and increase species richness and diversity in areas where they are located.
These are just a few examples that show how ecosystem engineers have shaped the world around us more than we may have realised. The late Yuan-Cheng Fung, regarded as the founder of bio engineering: "Engineering is quite different from science. Scientists try to understand nature. Engineers try to make things that do not exist in nature. Engineers stress invention." I would argue the opposite is true. Throughout its existence nature been engineering and inventing its own environment, we are simply playing catch up to what nature has long since known.


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Swiss meringue buttercream uses the magic of egg whites, sugar and butter to create this lighter than air, pillowy frosting that is worth the effort. I added the juices from a quick blueberry compote and amplified the berry flavor with a bit of Chambord black raspberry liquor. I made cupcakes here, but if you make a layer cake you can fill the middle with a good thick layer of your favorite prepared lemon curd (I love Wilkins & Son's from Tiptree England). This is fast becoming my most requested birthday cake. Such a treat.
3 large egg whites at room temperature
3/4 cup granulated sugar
3 sticks unsalted butter at room temperature
1 tablespoon Chambord black raspberry liquor
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 cup strained juices from blueberry compote (recipe to follow)
In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the sugar and egg whites
Place the bowl over a saucepan of simmering water
Whisk constantly until the sugar is dissolved and the whites start to become white and frothy, about 5 minutes
In the stand mixer with the whisk attachment, whip the egg whites on high until stiff glossy peaks form, about 10-12 minutes
Add the butter about a tablespoon at a time, mixing well after each addition
Scrape down the sides of the bowl, and with the mixer running on low, add the blueberry juices, salt and Chambord and beat until well combined, about a minute
Frost the cupcakes or cake and drizzle the blueberry puree on top, decorate with basil and or nasturtiums if desired, they do add a nice flavor hit
Serve with 3 cups of fresh blueberries and or raspberries
Blueberry Compote
3 cups frozen wild blueberries
1/2 cup sugar
1 teaspoon tapioca flour
juice and zest from 1 lemon
Serve with
Combine the blueberries and sugar in a medium sauce pan
Bring to a boil and reduce and simmer for about 10 minutes or until the juices thicken slightly
Remove from the heat and add the lemon juice and zest and stir
Let cool to room temperature and strain 1/2 cup of the juices from the berries
Reserve 1/2 cup to add to the frosting
With the remaining blueberry mixture puree with an immersion blender until very smooth and chill


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Calala Island
Calala is the first resort of its kind in the beautiful Pearl Keys - a private luxury island nestled in a remote part of Nicaragua's Caribbean Coast, with a mission to go above and beyond, and to exceed expectations. The property sits on an island cay, only a couple of hours by boat from Bluefields but seemingly a world away. Each one of the ocean view and beachfront suites was designed by renowned architect Matthew Falkiner, and is decorated with the finest handcrafted furniture from Nicaragua.
The hotel offers high-end amenities and service, but retains an easy-going Caribbean character. There are a range of activities on offer, and the restaurant offers fine dining with local influences and ingredients.
As you approach Calala Island, you could be forgiven for thinking yourself a true castaway, about to be left in the middle of the Caribbean. But as you sail closer, thatch-roofed villas and a shimmering infinity pool emerge among the palm trees. By the time you're greeted at the jetty, you'll be ready to begin life on this private island retreat.
On Calala Island, your exclusive hideaway will be one of just four beachfront suites, styled after a traditional Caribbean palapa. With open ocean views in front and palm forest behind, each one is completely private. Spend your days lazing in the hammock or taking hand-in-hand strolls on the beach – after your morning mimosas, naturally. Enjoy a massage in one of the private pavilions beside the sea. Then look forward to a bespoke menu of fresh-off-the-fishing-line seafood and organic, island-grown produce.
Designed by architect Matthew Falkiner, the four stunning master and junior suites are built from sustainable hardwoods, and sit on powder-soft white sand a pebble's throw from the dazzlingly blue water. Named after local communities, they each come with a king-sized bed covered in crisp white linens, handcrafted furniture and floor-to-ceiling windows lined with gauzy curtains. There's no air-conditioning but net walls allow the breeze in and you can shower under the sun or stars. Each comes with a small deck, a hammock-for-two and a sofa to take in the sunset.
There are complimentary kayaks, paddleboards and dinghies, along with fishing (the local way with string and a coconut), snorkeling and visits to local communities. Extras include diving with a professional outfit and deep-sea sports fishing. Paddle over – or take the boat – to picnic on Little Calala, a shell-strewn sandbar exposed by the tide, or lounge by the palm-fringed freeform swimming pool complete with swim-up bar. A spa palapa is tucked into the mangroves. The island is a nesting site for critically endangered hawksbill turtles and in season you might be lucky enough to see them hatch.


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Have you heard the one about the pointing ghost and the buried treasure? Legend has it that the pirate Jean Lafitte buried his treasure in Destrehan, Louisiana before his untimely demise in a skirmish out at sea. Agonized by his inability to return to his hidden cache of gold and jewels, his ghost now roams the area it was buried. Some claim that he seeks fulfillment in the afterlife by pointing the living to its location. Others say that he haunts the area to drive away treasure hunters and keep his trove's location an unsolvable secret. Two centuries later, the story of Lafitte's ghost and buried treasure still mystifies audiences.
Here in Louisiana, we love a good ghost story. We tell them so much that our state is seen as one of the most haunted in the U.S. and every town seems to have its own resident ghost. We even have phantom politicians in our capitol buildings. One Louisiana House of Representative's member was so dedicated to his job that not even death could keep him away. The story goes that Congressman Pierre Couvillon was so obsessed with truth and justice, that he died of a heart attack in the Old State Capitol's chamber room during an impassioned speech against corruption. His spirit remains in the building where he now taunts the staff and runs throughout the halls, frustrated by deceitful legislators.
Ghost stories are more than just fun stories we tell in order to scare one another. They are full of cultural significance and often embody oral traditions that have been passed down for generations. If you find yourself haunted by your desire for more, check out some of these great Louisiana ghost stories below!


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February 2010
Dear Loudoun County Atlasers,
Despite the cold temperatures, love is in the air for several of our raptor species. The Barred and Great Owls are now within safe dates and the Carolina Chickadee, Tufted Titmouse, and Carolina Wren will enter into safe dates at the end of the month. This is a great time to re-familiarize yourself with the atlasevidence codes and set goals for the upcoming year. For example, what species do you still need to find from your target list? What species do you want to upgrade to a probable or confirmed breeding code?
In the upcoming months, we will be making a few minor changes to the data collection and entry process to allow us to better meet our atlas objectives (see pg. 2 of Atlas Handbook for a refresher of our objectives). I'll notify you of the updates as they are ready.
1. Please send me a confirmation (via email or phone) that you will continue atlasing your assigned block in 2010. There are several blocks still in need of coverage so consider taking ownership of an additional block. A current list of block assignments is attached to this email.
2. All paper field cards and Special Survey forms from the first atlas year should be mailed to me by April 1st.
Atlas Training Session
The training session is scheduled for Tuesday, March 9th from 7:00 – 8:30 p.m. at the Rust Library in Leesburg. The training will provide an opportunity to meet other atlasers and become familiar with atlasing and data entry. Please let me know if you plan to attend and consider passing this information along to others that may be interested in helping with the atlas.
Special Area Update
The Dulles Wetlands Mitigation Project was recently added as our eighth Special Area. Remember to use a new field card when surveying this Special Area to prevent mix-ups when entering your data.
Atlas Verification Form Updates
1. I've updated the Atlas Verification form so information can now be typed directly into the document. The updated version is posted on the atlas website. This format should be conducive to saving and submiting the verification forms via email. Of course, you are still welcome to print the form, write in the information, and mail it to me.
2. Verification Forms are required only when confirmed (not probable or possible) breeding evidence is documented for Species of Special Interest in Category C (see pg. 7-8 of Atlas Handbook for details). The warning flag that appears in the database for Category C species now reads "No verification form required UNLESS evidence of breeding observed in the confirmed category." Hopefully this will clear up any confusion.
3. Our partners at Patuxent Wildlife Research Center are continuing to work on creating a new feature for the online database that will provide a status of "Documentation Received" or "Documentation Required." This new feature should hopefully be ready for the upcoming breeding season.
4. A spreadsheet of the special interest species documented in 2009 is attached to this email in case anyone is interested. Please note there may be additional species or sightings that haven't been entered into the database yet.
Atlas Progress
37 enthusiastic atlasers have spent 1,160 hours in the field documenting 12,580 sightings. You have recorded 191 species, with 91 of these species having a confirmed nesting status. Field cards have been reported for 28 blocks.
Your Atlasing Tips
Did you learn something the hard way while atlasing this first year? If so, please send me your lessons learned/atlasing tips and I'll pass them along for the group's benefit. Questions, concerns, and comments are also welcome. Thanks for your help with this exciting and challenging project!
Happy Atlasing,
Spring Ligi
Loudoun County Bird Atlas Coordinator


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Going to the dentist can be scary for anyone at any age, but it doesn't have to be so for young children. At Oak Hills Dentistry, we strive to make sure each experience is positive. Here are six tips you can use to help your kids have positive experiences in the dental office.
1.Start Early
The sooner you can get your child in to see the dentist, the better. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry suggests children have their first visit to the dentist when their first tooth erupts. Reasons for this include: instructions to parents for tooth care, monitoring jaw growth, and having your child have short, frequent, and positive experiences in a dental office. These early visits include cavity and cancer screenings, tooth cleaning, gum and tooth evaluation, jaw growth assessments, tours of the office, and meeting the dentist.
2.Talk About the Visit and show excitement
Depending on the age of your child, you will be able to have a conversation about your trip to the dentist. Children usually do better knowing their schedule ahead of time. Try letting them know a few days in advance and show them you are excited to have them there. You can talk about how a dentist will check their smile and how we are supposed to go each year to keep our teeth healthy and strong.
3.Introduce Dentist Books or Videos
Find a variety of picture books or children's programs that show positive experiences at the dental office. Most encourage children to face their apprehensions in a positive way and give positive reinforcements for going to the dentist. If you need to purchase some, consider buying them at least a week or so before the dental appointment so that you have multiple opportunities to read or view them before your appointment.
4.Play Pretend Dental Visit
Children love playing pretend. They interact positively with their world through play, and a great way to have a positive experience with the dentist is to play dentist before you go to the actual office. You can use their tooth brush and have them practice brushing their teeth. Use a mirror to show them their teeth and even take turns pretending to look at or clean the teeth of their favorite toy or stuffed animal.
5.Have Children Accompany You to Your Appointment
One great way to show your children through your actions that the dental office can be a fun and safe place is to bring them along with you to your appointment. We ask you to let us know while scheduling your visit so we can coordinate their first visit with your appointment to save you time and allow your child to see that we are kind and gentle.
6.Avoid Bribes
"If you don't cry or fuss, you can have a lollipop." Sound familiar? Bribing your child with candy or toys to get them to go to the dentist or not cry will have a negative impact on them rather than good. Having nervous or afraid emotions at the dentist the first few times is normal. Instead, empathize, validate, and show support for your child. Sometimes, it might take a few visits to the dentist to actually have work done, but that aids in building a positive relationship with the dentist and staff.
Visit Oak Hills Dentistry for Your Family Dental Needs
Our professionals are passionate about ensuring children have a positive experience at our office. At Oak Hills Dentistry, we do everything we can to diminish the fear of the dentist and have a welcoming environment for your children. We are located in Layton, Utah, and serve greater Davis and Salt Lake counties. Visit us or give us a call at (801)-544-2256. Contact us today!


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I want to respond to your cheers. Drawings of characters standing under the spotlight
Let's go to that place where the music is blaring, the lights are blinding, and the enthusiasm is unparalleled!
There's something extremely fascinating about the sense of unity that you can experience only among the crowds at events such as music festivals and live concerts. Your favorite idols and stars are singing and dancing with all their might, enrapturing you, and the idea that you're breathing the same air as they are is enough to propel your spirits toward the highest point.♡
Today, we're featuring heated illustrations of characters standing under the spotlight. Enjoy!


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- Original Used Susan Bates Learn To Knit in 6 Easy Steps Book
- For Left and Right Hand Knitters
- Great Instructions and Illustrations
- Dated Year 1986
- Book Size 8 1/2" x 11" approx
- 48 Pages
Includes Knitting Patterns
- Garter Stitch Vest
- Garter Stitch Pillows
- Garter Stripe Vest
- Slippers
- Childs Hat, Scarf and Mittens
- Baby's Blanket and Toy Dog
- Baby's Pullover, Bonnet and Booties
- His and Her Hat, Scarf and Mittens Sets
- Child's Pullover
- Child's Vest
- Ladies Aran Vest
- Mock Cable Cardigan
- Feather and Fan Afghan and Pillow
- Raglan Sweater worked from the neck, down
- Seed Stripe Pullover
Susan Bates 17380. Learn To Knit in 6 Easy Steps - Left & Right Handers Patterns
NO Refunds or Returns on Patterns or Books as they can be photocopied
Free Shipping within Canada and to the United States only. Shipping includes Postage, Tax on Postage, Fuel Surcharge on large or heavier books and Envelope costs. This does not include any cross-border fees charged upon delivery, if any.


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Does braising meat create its own stock, or should some stock or alcohol be added for extra richness?
Braising meat produces a delicious, full-flavored stock whether you use just water or add stock or alcohol. For a simple family meal, water flavored with vegetables, herbs and black peppercorns produces a sufficiently well-flavored dish. However, the addition of stock and/or wine enriches the taste and gives added flavor.
For a really elegant braised dish, set aside the cooked meat and keep it warm, then strain the stock, discarding the vegetables, and reduce it by rapid boiling to a syrupy consistency. Glaze the meat with the reduced sauce and serve with other freshly cooked vegetables. ** Asian Online Recipes **
15:15:52 on 09/16/06
by Webmaster -
Questions and Answers -
Boning a leg of lamb.
Boning a leg of lamb enables you to add a stuffing, which will give the meat extra flavor and succulence, and makes it very easy to carve. Or you can lay it flat under the grill or on a barbecue, skin side nearest the heat, where it will cook in just 15 minutes, being turned once. To ensure a neat, easy job, use a narrow, rigid boning knife.
1. There are three bones to remove: the shank bone, which juts out of the meat at the narrow end; the middle bone, which is attached to the shank bone by a ball and socket joint; and the V-shaped pelvic bone, which turns across the thick end of the joint. 2. Lay the leg fleshy side down. Start at the shank end and, holding the knife like a dagger, cut through the flesh down to the shank bone beneath. Change your grip to the normal one and cut along the bone, keeping the knife as close to the bone as possible, so as not to waste any of the meat. 3. Scrape round the ball and socket joint then cut along the middle and pelvic bones. Use your fingers to locate each bone in turn and work from both ends of the leg if you find it easier. Gradually ease the bones out, one by one. The boned meat is now ready to be stuffed, rolled and tied up for roasting. 4. To open the boned meat out flat for grilling which is also known as butterfly boning, make two further parallel cuts through the thick pieces of meat on either side of the space left by the middle bone. Beat the meat once or twice with a wooden mallet to even out the thickness, then grill or barbecue. ** Asian Online Recipes **
12:31:34 on 09/16/06
by Webmaster -
Cooking Guide -
Tying up a boned chicken.
There are two ways to tie up a chicken In the first, you sew up stuffed and rolled bird using a trussing needle and string, sewing across one end first, down the length of the roll and then across the other end.
Alternatively, you can fold the bird into shape around the stuffing then wrap it in a piece of muslin or a roasting net. First dip the cloth in melted butter or oil and wring out lightly. Put the stuffed bird in the center of the cloth, flap side uppermost, then wrap the cloth around it tightly, securing it at both ends with string to look like a Christmas cracker. The cooking time should be calculated according to the bird's weight after it has been stuffed. Be sure it is fully cooked through, particularly if you have used a sausage-meat stuffing. Check by inserting a skewer into the center of the joint and the juices should run clear. If you have wrapped the bird in muslin there is no need to baste it during cooking - but remove the cloth before the bird is completely cold or it will stick. ** Asian Online Recipes **
07:54:16 on 09/16/06
by Webmaster -
Cooking Guide -


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This Navratri, focus on jewelry to highlight your traditional attire and look perfect for the puja.
Here are a few jewelry trends for Navratri to instantly glam up on the festival!
Navratna necklace
Adorn your attire with a beautiful navratna necklace which features 9 gemstones based on your birthchart. This is a very versatile option for your festive attire. The necklace has navratri colours in it which makes your task easy to pair them with different coloured outfits and can be worn on multiple days of Navratri festival.
Pearl necklace or mala is perfect for day six which is also known as white day and dedicated to Goddess Kalaratri for peace and purity. White pearl necklace with earrings gives a ravishing look when paired with a white outfit. Moreover, you can also pair them for other days with orange, yellow, blue and pink outfits.
Statement jewelry
Although oxidized jewelry is the preferred and most common option during Navratri but it's important to also wear comfortable jewelry as you dance the night away. Therefore statement neckpieces and earrings are a lighter option which will help you stand out.
Uncut polki with meenakari jewelry
It's essential to have a balance between being trendy and traditional whereas jewelry crafted using traditional motifs such as peacock, lotus or any other in gold finish options are perfect for an ethnic and contemporary attire. Polki Jewellery can also be paired with coloured stones like pink sapphire, rubies as red and emerald as green which symbolize the nine avatars of goddess Durga with their colour traits.
(IANS Inputs)
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There are a number of things out there that can make us sick, but drinking water should never be one of them. But even here in the United States with one of the most advanced drinking water sources in the world, we face many issues due to the drinking water issues that residents face all over the country. In fact, right here in Ventura County, one resident is making claims that too much chlorine in their home's drinking water is making them sick. According to an article from CBSLA.com, one Ojai family said the smell and presence of the chlorine was extremely strong and felt a negative impact on her well-being from the water.
Chlorine is added to drinking water with a purpose. According to some statistics, the U.S. General Accounting Office reports that there are serious deficiencies in water treatment plants in 75% of the states in this country. More than 120 million people (about 50% of the population) may get unsafe water according to a study conducted by the Natural Resources Defense Council. Chlorination of drinking water was a major factor in the reduction of deaths associated with waterborne pathogens, and was believed to be safe. But current research shows that too much chlorine could also cause harm with some places even looking at alternate solutions.
The residents tested their drinking water for chlorine much like they test a swimming pool. The levels were really high and what they would have expected for the pool but certainly not their drinking water. The family started to use filtered water for brushing their teeth. They also started to drink bottled water. A representative with Golden State Water Company, which supplies water to the family, said they are state-mandated to disinfect the water with chlorine and ammonia. As the article states, "Some scientists believe ingesting water with high levels of chlorine can cause cancer, but it's impossible to know whether the levels are high enough to pose a risk to the Arellanes family."
Not only are plastic water bottles environmentally-irresponsible, but they are costly and do not replace safe drinking water like all residents deserve. With our drinking water systems, we use reverse osmosis technology to purify drinking water and remove harmful contaminants. We offer the smartest drinking water system ever made – so when you find yourself dealing with high levels of chlorine or are concerned about the purity and quality of your drinking water, contact us and feel better right away.


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It's been a hot minute since Syte's OpenEarz has released, and now see itself relaunching with the powerful and sonically mongrel stylings of Promise One. The tunes themselves are interesting as they seem to be indebted to Wen's "everything and the kitchen sink approach" of crafting tunes out of the aesthetic data of the last 20 years or so of the hardcore continuum, to borrow Simon Reynolds's concept of purely 'British music'. Promise One merges and melds the dark flavors of garage/early dubstep, grime's lyrical gun-fights, and the hefty appreciation of the power of bass weight into something that reminds you of Wen, except heavier and without the ghoulish EVP of grime MC's.
The title track features MC Sparkz who lays down bars on the percussion salad of 'See We Roll'. Detailing the soundbwoy's dream of making tunes with your mates, going to dances, getting your skank on, and generally living that DJ/producer lifestyle, it's nothing to right home about, but again shows how specifically Promise One combines the aesthetic data of the last 20 years of the hardcore continuum into this EP – using elements of garage's skip, grime's MC focus and at dubstep's resting heart-rate of 140. Finding a balance between the slick dub chords of 'Chroma' and the ruff swing of 'Ghost Note', 'See We Roll' cuts with razor precision in the drum department, and would make Benny Ill or El-B cry happy tears. It doesn't hurt 'See We Roll' is armed with those early dark garage abysmal bass dives that give your already ugly mug an uglier screwface.
'Chroma', it seems is the only riddim that doesn't follow the Wen-indebted sonic ideology of the rest of the EP. 'Chroma' sees Promise One and Geode fighting pitched street battles over turf in the ghettos/housing estates/favelas of the world cities. Slick with lavender, crisp percussion lends a much need snap to the dub techno stabs and the ripe with summer mist rhodes organ caresses. Building over these melodic – rhythmic components, RnB flourishes resolves the hanging melody, tricking your ears and performing alchemy that you didn't know that was occurring right in front of you – it works at such a deadly level, activating the smaller, more ancient, reptilian parts of our brains. High flexing sub weight bounces and sways to and fro and we in turn follow, circling, parrying, diving, arms-raised, feathers sprawled in the sun.
In the digital exclusive 'Ghost Note', dubspace cracks and oozes the matter that compromises time, washes of stardust trickle over the skin. Synthetic growls permeate the atmosphere creating shimmers of light and heat the way a fire does of the air above it, or hot concrete smoldering, looking like a grey sea, with the consistency of a runny egg yolk, or Dali clock and in the shimmer itself, shades of barely there bongos, slivers of hi-hats made of mercury, and rim-shots that break apart, revealing the colors that make them in fractals of polyhedrons. Over a rough-hewn garage chassis, Promise One deploys pit bull bass snarls, barely containing the bruk-out aggression of 'Ghost Note'. Some quick vocal science turns the snippets of a grime bar into some form of mantra on the important of non-being. It's all a ruff and tumble riddim that contains the best of Wen's unique UK-based mongrel music at 140bpm.
In conclusion, it's a strong and well-balanced relaunch of the label. Promise One's fusion of garage and grime into dubstep's devotion to all things bass that really allows the tunes to speak for themselves – that's how strong they are. It's also interesting to see how far Wen's influence reaches, especially for the amount of time Wen has been producing/releasing tunes. I hope to see more of this early garage-influenced dubstep come back. It only seems naturally as many nu-skool producers such as LAS, Mikael and Gantz repurposed those smoky DMZ vibes. It's takes the whole 'foundational sound' to it's logical endpoint.
EARZ004 is out now and available from all good record stores.


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- James Townsend
Youth Football and Cheer Registration Ending Soon, Golf Outing Schedule for August 4th
Saturday, July 14th, is the last day to register your child for Junior Raider football and cheer for 2018 at the regular price. Registrations received after the 14th will incur an additional $25 late fee.
Junior Raiders offers tackle football and cheerleading programs for 4th through 8th graders who reside within the Portland school district. The regular registration price is $100 per child and includes all necessary equipment and uniforms. A multi child discount is available. For more information on the programs, visit http://portlandjrraiders.net/. Registration can be done online at http://tshq.bluesombrero.com/portlandtfa.
If you child is planning on participating in Junior Raiders in 2018, don't forget to schedule his or her sports physical if you have not done so already. Your child will not be able to start their mandatory conditioning on August 6th without a physical.
The PHS varsity football coaching staff is offering a football camp at PHS July 24th through 26th. This camp cost $20 and is for 4th through 12th graders. The cost includes a t-shirt and pizza on the last day of camp. The brochure and registration form for that camp can be found at http://portlandjrraiders.net/ under the forms tab.
The PHS cheer program will also be holding their camp July 24th through 26th. The brochure and registration form for that camp can also be found at http://portlandjrraiders.net/ under the forms tab. This camp is for 4th through 8th graders and the cost is $25.
Junior Raiders and the PHS football program are teaming up again this year for a charity golf outing benefiting both programs. The outing will occur at Willow Wood Golf Club on Saturday August 4th with a 2:30 shotgun start. The cost is $60 per golfer and includes 18-holes of golf, cart, t-shirt, hot dog lunch and a hog roast dinner. For more information, to register, or if you are a local business interested in supporting this event, please email Jessica at email@example.com or John at firstname.lastname@example.com.