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Do we need to mess with formality of an intro to this blog post? I'm about to tell you some of the things that are making me happy lately! And you're going to nod and laugh and reflect on the things that are making you happy right now and tell me about them! 1. Purging. Lately I've been wanting - even more than usual - to purge and clean and get organized. I was able to do this to some extent around the house over the past months, but now I've gotten started at work and it's the best thing ever! God knows how many important documents I've shredded, but OMG desk space! 2. Ignoring Things. Did you know that if someone says something that grinds your gears you can actually just ignore it altogether? I've been exercising this right in recent weeks and I'm all the happier for it. 3. Trip Planning. Now that Jax has arrived and we've got a wonderful and successful Las Vegas trip behind us, Jeff and I are starting to plan for our Honeymoon Round 2. I feel like it can really happen this time. We'll be avoiding hurricane season. 4. LUSH. Do you ever go to Lush? You know, the colorful and smelly-good place at most malls in large metropolitan areas where you're chased around by a perky and pierced salesperson who begs to wash your hands? I super love Lush products, but I rarely ever treat myself to them. In Vegas, I had won $50 on the Britney Spears slot machine (side note: Hit Me Baby One More Time is an effective slot machine song) and allowed myself FOUR smellygood purchases! I've really been loving the Citrus-y Sandstone soap that exfoliates - well, it scrubs the crap out of my skin, tbh. It takes off at least seven layers. Plus then I smell good. 5. People Caring About my Sleep. All of the sudden, everyone is enormously concerned about how much sleep I'm getting. Nobody has ever really seemed to care before. I guess we all just assume that everyone else sleeps at night. Now people inquire about if I'm getting any sleep at all. It's so sweet that people care. The answer: No, I'm not getting as much sleep as I'd like. You wanna take the overnight shift tonight? We can combat these dark circles under my eyes together! 6. Donors. My first week back at work, we had some wonderful folks bring in a very meaningful gift, and you could just tell how happy it made them to provide this gift. If you ever lose your faith in humanity, work in fundraising. Donors are amazing. Then, when you're asked to help with a golf outing, turn in your two weeks. 7. Baby Smiles! Jax is starting to smile and be super cute when he's not sleeping or eating or farting or fussing. I'd wake up at 3 am for that any day.
8/26/2019 05:29:43 pm
Reflecting on things that make you happy is a way to be grateful, be inspired and be positive so all those are wonderful outcomes. I can't wait to see those Jax smiles at whatever time they show up.
Carrie White
8/28/2019 03:46:13 pm
Oops I Did it again is a good slot machine name as well as Gimme More and Lucky.
Vicky Gilpin
9/6/2019 06:50:13 am
Somehow, I missed several Blog entries, but now I get to enjoy catching up on them. You are hysterical.
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AuthorMom of four, wife of one. By day I fund-raise with coffee, by night I read with wine and chocolate. Archives
June 2023
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Yamunotri Temple - Chota Char Dham pilgrimage circuit
Dedicated to Goddess Yamuna, the Yamunotri Temple is situated close to Yamuna River, the second holiest river in India, in the state of Uttarakhand. The temple, one of the shrines included in Chota Char Dham pilgrimage circuit, is situated at an altitude of 3,291 metres and is accessible only by a full day's journey from the nearest towns of Rishikesh, Haridwar or Dehradun.
The Yamunotri temple has been destroyed twice by snow and floods before being rebuilt. The original temple was built by Maharani Guleria of Jaipur in the 19th century. Featured in this video are pilgrims trekking towards the shrine.

subset: commoncrawl


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2015 BMW M235i Convertible F22
About the Car
2015 BMW M235i Convertible F22
The BMW M Performance Automobile line-up continues to augment its variety and charisma. Following two BMW X models, two versions each based on the BMW 5-Series and BMW 1-Series, as well as the BMW M235i Coupe, now the first ever M Performance open-top model is set to offer the characteristic M brand of intensive driving enjoyment. The BMW M235i Convertible is gearing up to raise the adrenaline of motor sport fans courtesy of a 240 kW/326 hp six-cylinder in-line M Performance TwinPower Turbo engine that delivers a 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) time of just 5.2 seconds or 5.0 seconds in conjunction with the optional eight-speed Steptronic sport transmission. Aerodynamically optimised body features and custom chassis components are matched with typical M precision to the engine performance characteristics, ensuring a perfect blend of outstanding agility and precisely controllable handling at all times. You can find more visual details of the 2015 BMW M235i Convertible gallery by scrolling up.
The BMW M235i Convertible amps up the passion and adrenaline of dynamic open-top driving to new heights. Like its BMW M235i Coupe stablemate, the open four-seater also has a distinctive and authentic character rooted in the experience of BMW M GmbH as a developer of high-performance sports cars for general everyday use. Drawing on this exclusive know-how, the BMW M235i Convertible provides the perfect balance of engine power, chassis engineering and aerodynamic characteristics to deliver levels of agility, precision and emotional intensity that are unsurpassed in the premium compact segment.
Straight-six engine with M Performance TwinPower Turbo technology and thrilling performance characteristics
Like the M235i Coupe, the M235i Convertible is fitted with the most powerful petrol engine hitherto available for a BMW M Performance Automobile, which delivers performance in a class of its own. This straight-six engine offers an infectious blend of responsive power, high revving ability and powerful torque that remains constant over a wide engine speed range. Highlights also include its highly efficient design, which gives the BMW M235i Convertible fuel economy figures that are all the more remarkable in the light of its performance. The M Performance TwinPower Turbo technology comprises a twin-scroll turbocharging system, High Precision Direct Injection featuring centrally positioned multi-hole injectors, VALVETRONIC variable valve timing and Double-VANOS variable camshaft timing. A cooling system, engine management and engine sound tuning, all of which have been exclusively customised to the requirements of the BMW 2-Series M Performance models, complete the picture. Maximum power of 240 kW/326 hp is generated at between 5,800 and 6,000 rpm, from a displacement of 3.0 litres. The maximum torque of 450 Newton metres is available between 1,300 and 4,500 rpm.
As standard, the BMW M235i Convertible is fitted with a six-speed manual gearbox with dry sump lubrication. Its short-throw action provides extra-sporty shifting and helps the BMW M Performance model deliver a 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) acceleration time of 5.2 seconds. With the optional eight-speed Steptronic sport transmission with Launch Control function, this is slashed to 5.0 seconds. Top speed is electronically limited to 250 km/h (155 mph).
In line with contemporary concerns, the BMW M Performance models incorporate an extensive range of BMW EfficientDynamics technologies. This helps the BMW M235i Convertible to achieve average fuel consumption of 8.5 litres/100 km (33.2 mpg imp) and CO2 emissions of 199 g/km in the EU test cycle. And if the eight-speed Steptronic sport transmission is specified, the figures can be further improved to 7.9 l/100 km (35.8 mpg imp) and 184 g/km.
Agile and precise custom chassis technology
Thanks to typical precision-tuned M custom chassis technology, in the BMW M235i Convertible outstanding engine performance is translated into assured driving dynamics. Custom-configured suspension and damping systems as well as special front-axle elastokinematics are adapted both to the performance characteristics of the six-cylinder engine and to the specific requirements of the open body style. The M Sport brakes and variable sport steering – the latter again specially configured – are standard specification on the BMW M235i Convertible.
Also standard are exclusive 18-inch M alloy wheels with mixed tyres in size 225/40 R18 at the front and size 245/35 R18 at the rear. These specially developed high-grip tyres optimally transmit all dynamic drive forces to the road. The Original BMW Accessories range additionally offers 19-inch forged BMW M Performance alloy wheels.
The range of products available for the BMW M235i Convertible also includes the BMW M Performance limited-slip differential. The mechanical rear differential with integral torque-sensing differential lock varies the drive-torque split between the rear wheels for optimised traction whenever the Driving Stability Control system (DSC) is switched off. Reacting to torque differences between the driven wheels, its locking action reduces slip at the wheel with less traction by transferring more drive to the other wheel. This ensures that engine power is converted as efficiently as possible into propulsion, for even sharper and more dynamic acceleration out of corners.
You can find more visual details of the 2015 BMW M235i Convertible gallery by scrolling up.
2015 BMW M235i Convertible Front View 3/4
Optimised aerodynamic balance, sports car flavour in the cockpit
The precisely controllable handling of the BMW M235i Convertible is partly down to custom chassis technology but partly also to an optimised aerodynamic balance. Aerodynamically styled body parts, which include an M-style front apron, are a hallmark of the BMW M235i Convertible's design. The large air intakes in this apron, with flaps adapted from racing car design, extend into the area which on the other versions of the BMW 2-Series Convertible is reserved for the fog lamps. Following the typical styling idiom of BMW M Performance Automobiles, the air intakes are bisected by horizontal ribs in Ferric Grey metallic. The exterior mirror caps are finished in the same colour. Further exterior design features include the striking side sill contouring and a rear apron whose lower section, in Dark Shadow metallic, also incorporates the twin tailpipes in black chrome.
Further exclusive design features include door sill finishers with aluminium inserts bearing "M235i" lettering and a specially "tuned" interior that features sports seats for the driver and front passenger, an M leather steering wheel with multifunction buttons, Aluminium Hexagon interior trim with accent strips in matt Estoril Blue or high-gloss black, leather trim for the gearshift lever/selector lever and handbrake lever gaiter, and an M driver's footrest. The custom instrument cluster features red markings and numbers for the speedometer and rev counter, while the instrument cluster with extended features additionally has a digitally produced model designation. Rounding off the interior specifications of the BMW M235i Convertible are variable-colour interior lighting and blue detailing for the car key.
You can find more visual details of the 2015 BMW M235i Convertible gallery by scrolling up.
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by Leeann MioneINDIANAPOLIS, Ind. – With Phyllis Harris at the helm, the Indianapolis Charity Horse Show has been a consistently well-run and well-attended horse show for years. The last couple of years, however, have seen an even greater surge in the show's momentum. That trend continued this year, but if possible, the quality was even better throughout the many different divisions.
More than 425 horses made the trip to show in the Pepsi Coliseum at the Indiana State Fairgrounds and they put on a great show session after session. If there was one thing to be changed about the show it is the fact that the increased growth and interest from barns throughout the country has led to so many classes which in turn made each session between three and a half and four hours long.
"We will address the problems of the long sessions and the difficulties we face due to the Indy 500 race and the Memorial Day holiday which make the facility unavailable early in the week," said Harris. "We are so appreciative to the barns that have been loyal supporters year after year and to the new barns that decided to make the trip this year," she added. "I also want to thank the staff, especially Judy McManama who is the backbone of this show. She does so much more than just serve as show secretary."
Harris's skill at surrounding herself with hardworking and dedicated people was rewarded Saturday night when she received special recognition and Bill and Diana Whitinger, longtime supporters of Indy Charity, were presented with the Shining Star Award.
Linda Lewis and the horse show joined forces to sponsor the exhibitors' party Friday evening, which drew a big crowd for great food and drink. Morning coffee hour hostesses were Donna Seedorf, Debbie Seedorf-Owens and Terry Hudson.The combination of a friendly, hardworking staff that genuinely wants owners, trainers and exhibitors to return year after year is one of the key ingredients in the formula that guides Indianapolis Charity's success each year. Other factors include a great facility, especially for young horses and young riders to get some valuable ring experience and good footing that kept thrown shoes to a minimum all weekend.
Harris was pleased with her show by the end and already looking forward to next year. But first, there was much heated competition in the show ring that showcased talented horses and riders that are sure to leave their mark on the industry this year and for many years to come.Five-GaitedAfter an 11-entry open qualifier, four horses hit the gate for Saturday evening's final class, the Five-Gaited Championship. Indiana is one of the few shows that adds that special touch to the gaited stake by introducing each team individually. With organist June Brune playing "Back Home In Indiana," last year's junior champion, The Light O' Love, was first into the ring with Martin Teater up for A.E. Nelson. Charmed Delight and Matt Shiflet were next in the ring for Kathleen Bagdasarian. Miss Genevieve and Steve Wheeler made the group nearly complete, showing for owners Alan and Ginger Failor. Final competitor Beringer Red, winner of the open class, hit the ring with Jenny Taylor up for Fred and Phyllis Rhue, and the battle began.
With four very different styles, all four horses had their fair share of fans and when they lined up to strip, the crowd made their choices clear. When Rick Wallen turned in his card, it was River Ridge's Five-Gaited Grand Champion, Beringer Red, taking the title again to make it two for two. Miss Genevieve was the reserve grand champion.
My Chanel was right on target to win the ladies class with Dr. Owen Weaver up from Milligan Stables and when they returned in the Amateur Five-Gaited Stake, Weaver's smile couldn't have been bigger when her mare was named the grand champion. Starlet's Commendable and owner Beth Kunkel turned in the reserve grand championship effort. The 10-entry amateur stake was one of the best classes of the division with a ring full of quality entries.
Anybody who knows Bill Marple knows that for him, winning at Indy is almost better than winning at Louisville. When Enzo was named the amateur champion amongst a field of seven competitive entries, Marple made his victory pass with hat in hand in front of the hometown crowd and left the ring to a huge ovation.
The Devil May Care moved up in the ribbons to take the title of Junior Exhibitor Five-Gaited Champion with Sarah Hinds up for Mary Jane Hinds. Cydni Simmons and Catch The Moon were right there to claim the reserve streamers for Burlington Saddlebreds after having won the qualifier under the direction of Tammy Devore.Judy Megelich and Ventura's Gold Card teamed up to take the blue in the novice rider class which featured a pair of hard-riding competitors.
According To Lynn had plenty of people talking after she put forth a strong effort to win the Junior Five-Gaited class with Mary Gaylord McClean in the irons under the direction of Rob and Sarah Byers. Following the tradition of seeing nice young stock at Indy Charity, the seven-entry class was full of quality.
Silver And Blue captured the UPHA Five-Gaited Classic with Jenny Taylor riding for Jan Henderson to follow up their win at River Ridge. The striking grey colt was matched against five other youngsters that have done their share of winning and the class was an entertaining one.
Mystic Pointe and Rob Byers had an even bigger field to compete against in the nice nine-entry limit horse class, riding for Beth Hipp Murphy.
Casey Morgan Tibolet was an extremely busy young lady at Indy Charity, showing several different mounts successfully under the direction of Cape Cod Farm. She teamed Heiress To Champagne to the blue ribbon in the Five-Gaited Pony class, then returned in the stake to take the tricolor. Revival Fire and Kelsey Herbert were the reserve grand champions from Cedar Wood Farm.Three-GaitedThunder Cloud Nine and Todd Miles put together a strong team effort to win the Three-Gaited Championship after having topped the open class. Sunshine Way and Lisa Strickland were right there to take the reserve grand championship title for Julie Hambrick.
Pas de Deux and Rosemarie Fernandez have a long list of wins to their credit and they added two more at Indy. They kicked off the competition in good order by winning the first class of the show, the Ladies Three-Gaited class. They returned in the nine-entry amateur stake and finished as the grand champions among a talented group of competitors. Sir Andrew and Margo Coleman followed up their good show at River Ridge with the reserve grand championship at Indy under the direction of Jim and Jenny Taylor.
Freakness and Ellyn Dorsey made their team debut at Indy and what a debut it was. The flashy gelding and Dorsey looked like veteran teammates when they won the amateur qualifier in their only appearance. Dorsey rode under the direction of Lisa Strickland.
CH Steel In Love and Scott Pisarik turned in a strong effort together to claim the junior exhibitor championship tricolor after having won the qualifier. Pisarik was directed to his winning rides by Mark Hulse. Stonecroft Front and Center, with Chelsea Patterson, keeps getting better and better and they were right on target to take the reserve streamers back to Cape Cod Farm.
Heir Calendar Girl and Robin Haynes were directed by Marilyn Macfarlane to their winning effort in the novice rider class which showcased a strong group of six.Rhythm Of The Son and Jim Lowry were the junior champions for the Priscilla Marconi Trust to continue their successful season so far.
Homebred youngster FER Feel The Rush and Chris Carrick topped the UPHA Three-Gaited Classic for Dr. Fernando Jara and Fernando's Equine Ranch.Five teams came through the gate for the limit horse class, and when Wallen turned in his card, it was Our Red BMW and Stephanie Sedlacko heading to the winner's circle for Jean Graeff.
Manhattan's Irish Cream and Emily Druckman continued their winning ways with a sweep of the three-gaited pony division under the direction of Diamond View Farm. It's Murphy's Law and Erin Taylor were the reserve grand champions.ParkThe park division was quite large and featured deep water throughout, although the open stake was the smallest with seven entries after a 12-entry open class. Hillside Sensation and Mike McIntosh teamed up for Pat and Laura Lockwood to top the big, competitive open class and then returned to claim the tricolor in the open stake. Rachael North and Something Ventured competed in the amateur class then came back for North's first open championship ride to take the reserve tricolor under the direction of Tammy Devore.
Undulata's Jimmy Hollywood and Abby Campbell have been unstoppable in the amateur ranks and they followed up their River Ridge wins with both amateur park wins at Indy. The division was huge and extremely competitive with 13 entries in the qualifier and 11 in the stake. Stella Santana carried Owen Weaver to the reserve grand championship ribbon after a strong effort for Fox Grape Farms and Weaver.Fine HarnessOpen Fine Harness Champion Just Wicked and AJ Bruwer put it all together to win the Fine Harness Championship to follow up their wins at Milwaukee Spring for Shirley Rinehart. All Buttoned Up and Irv Udell came back after the amateur class to claim the reserve tricolor under the direction of Lynn Durant at Bell View Acres.Tom Sworm Stables followed up a successful River Ridge show with numerous wins and top ribbons at Indy including Eleanor Pederson's win in the amateur class with Gothic Bronze.
Surfer Boy also followed up success at River Ridge with the win in the junior class. Georgia Baker showed under the direction of George Knight.
Martin Teater showcased the talent of three-year-old Kent Brockman with a winning drive in the UPHA Fine Harness Classic for Catherine McNeese to close out the fine harness division. Road Horse and PonyDeLovely Farm captured the Road Horse Grand Championship title with Dutchmaster. Mark Turner had previously driven Dutchmaster to the blue ribbon in the six-entry open class for DeLovely. Wuddacomover and Merrill Murray turned in a powerful effort to take the reserve grand championship title for owner Timothy Holahan.
Triumphant lived up to his name twice at Indy with Jane Mueller driving. Gib Marcucci met the winners after they were named Roadster Pony Grand Champions in a competitive six-pony class. Triumphant also won the four-entry open qualifier. Desert Fox and Linda Park captured the reserve title under the direction of Steve Demjen with a strong effort and had previously won the amateur qualifier.Hackney and Harness PoniesWait & See's Whiz Bang carried Robin Haynes to the winner's circle in the Harness Pony Championship and amateur class under the direction of Walnut Way. Creation's Windstar was reserve grand champion with Lisa Antalek driving for Natalie Udell.
Forever Showtime and Gib Marcucci won the Hackney Pony Championship and topped three other teams for the win. The young pony came into the championship having won the UPHA Hackney Pony Classic for owner Gayle Burch. The Final Contender and Linda Lewis, following up their success at River Ridge, were reserve grand champions under the direction of Jim McIntosh. Kim and Fran Crumpler directed Marilyn Swimmer and Heartland Twice As Nice to the blue ribbon effort in the amateur class for Swimmer Insurance.
Jane Mueller was back in the winner's circle twice more at Indy, but this time with her proven Early Edition. They won the Hackney Pony Pleasure Driving Championship and qualifier amongst a top group of competitive ponies to win both for the second year in a row. Cherry Royale and Judy Kjellander took second in the championship under the direction of Kurt Hufferd of Indian Creek. Rich Campbell and Kathryn Nichols teamed up to claim the blue ribbon in the UPHA Hackney Pony Pleasure Driving Classic with Crystal Creek's Starlet. Nichols drove her homebred young pony to the title for Crystal Creek.Pleasure
Mallory Greaves and Believe Her had their work cut out for them in the competitive 12-entry Five-Gaited Pleasure Championship but they turned in a strong team effort under the direction of Tammy Devore to claim victory. Linda Beltz and Champagne's Irish Sea were right there to finish with the reserve grand championship title. Patrice Watson and Stonewall's Stargate put together a team effort to win the 12-entry qualifier.
Worthy's Independent Son, with Steve Wheeler on board, topped a nice group of competitors to take the title in the Park Pleasure Championship after riding hard for owner Carol McIvor. Beaujolais Nouveau and Brent Jacobs continued their show ring successes for Randy and Liz Thomas by finishing with the reserve ribbon. Music Of The Heir and Marilyn Macfarlane topped the eight-entry open qualifier to add yet another win to owner Robin Haynes' total.
Dr. Mary Jensen looked on as Peter Archer rode The Wild Blue to the win in the Junior Three-Gaited Park Pleasure class that showcased eight sporty four-year-olds.Steve Wheeler was back with another park pleasure winner, this time he rode to the winner's circle with He's The Real Deal in the UPHA Park Pleasure Classic for Ann Miller. Six three-year-olds hit the gate to make the class a competitive one.
CH Lightnin' Lil's story is a unique and memorable one and she made this year's Indy Charity a memorable stop on the way to Louisville by winning the very competitive 17-entry Adult Three-Gaited Pleasure Championship with Nicolle Beltz Tolliver under the direction of Toni Knight at Biggins Stables. Lil and Tolliver had previously won the 17-entry qualifier.
King Of Pop and Natalie Udell put forth a strong team effort in the deep class and came up with the reserve streamers.
The junior exhibitors were split by age group and the older age group hosted nearly twice as many entries as the younger riders. The Mystery Machine and Rachel Kelley held back 11 other challengers in the 14-17 championship and 12 other teams in the qualifier to end up two for two. Armon Effinger directed Samantha Lemberg and Love Shack to the good reserve tie in the big stake class. The Grand Master and Thea Ervin were reserve in the qualifier.
CH The Bess Yet and Lizzie Edgar have been on a roll all season and they followed up their division sweep at River Ridge by doing the same thing at Indy. They won the seven-entry 13 and under stake and six-entry qualifier under the direction of Tom Sworm. Sultan's Kingdom and Caroline Walker teamed up together to finish with the reserve streamers in the championship.
KE Flight Of A Star and Alexandra Clark were the ones to beat in the 12 and Over Walk and Trot Pleasure Any Seat class which hosted hardworking young riders. Clark rode for owner Janet Keesling.
Jessica Sexton took her turn in the winner's circle to add another blue to the Cape Cod count. She rode Simply Enough to the win in the limit class and bested a very strong group of 15 for the hard-earned win.
Jane Mueller actually took a turn in the audience to watch one of her entries drive to the winner's circle, rather than take her usual place in the buggy. Linda Fischer Wheeler drove Supreme Platinum to a sweep of the show pleasure driving division under the direction of Peter Palmer at Meadowlake. Selvaggio and Priscilla Marconi were the reserve grand champions in the eight-entry championship with a strong team effort.
CH The Billy Bob has already gained a reputation as one of the show ring's most durable and versatile stars and Cheryl Friedman Allison was all smiles when he was named the winner of the Adult Country Pleasure Championship which hosted nine proven teams. CH Spike Leigh, also a proven veteran, carried Jackie Manzo to the reserve tie in the competitive championship. Jane Steinkamp and The Straight Guy and owner Jane Steinkamp went to the top of Wallen's card in the equally competitive eight-entry adult class under the direction of Chuck Herbert.
Piano Man and Lori Jordan followed up their successes at River Ridge with a sweep of the junior exhibitor division to add two more winning ribbons to the Cedar Wood Farm tack room. With 11 entries in the championship and nine in the qualifier, the junior exhibitors faced big numbers and stiff competition. Callaway's Glory Glory and Mallory Hartigan turned in a powerful team effort to be named the reserve grand champions from Country Meadow Farm.
I'm A Diva Too and Sally Grieme also faced a big group in their bid to claim a blue ribbon at Indy and they went straight to the winner's circle when they were called out as the winners of the 11-entry limit class under the direction of Crumpler Stables.
David and Lois Vartanian moved from Florida to Indiana to be closer to family and they all gathered together at the Indian Creek stalls when Lois drove CH What A Keepsake to the win in the eight-entry Country Pleasure Driving Championship. Vartanian and What A Keepsake kept the momentum going after having won both classes at River Ridge. Highpoint's High Adventure was just one of Grace Ann Walker's entries at Indy that had a great show. From Devore Stables they put on a good show to take the reserve streamers for owner Betty Warren and had previously won the nine-entry qualifier.
In Your Honor and Autumn Hunt made their bid in the western division standings with a good show at Indy. After winning the nine-entry qualifier, they ended up as the Western Country Pleasure Grand Champions as well. The division featured a stellar cast of nine proven teams including Reserve Grand Champion The American Flag. Suzanne Bradshaw rode to the reserve tie. Sue's Great Day and Marilyn Swimmer are veterans of the division with numerous wins to their credit and they added the title of Saddle & Bridle Shatner Western Country Pleasure Champions to their long list.
The Saddle & Bridle Hunter Country Pleasure class showcased five teams, all with winning records but when Wallen's card was turned in, it was Kansas City and Beth Oliver taking the blue ribbon. They also won the hunter country pleasure class to score a second blue prize for the weekend.EquitationThe four-entry Saddle Seat Equitation Championship saw four poised young ladies come through the gate after their various qualifiers to compete for the tricolor and title of grand championship. Casey Tibolet continued her great show with the win in the USEF Saddle Seat Medal, then kept the momentum going by returning in the championship to take the win after a strong ride on the rail and in the workout. Tibolet's win in the Medal came after completing the not-often-seen pocket workout called for by Wallen. Amber Lynn Lowry, another veteran equitation contender finished as the reserve grand champion under the direction of Shadow Run.
Shana Jo Brown, directed by Memory Lane Farm, was the winner of the 14-17 class. Abby Mutrux, part of the DeLovely contingent, was the winner of the 13 and under class.
Hunter Chancellor, daughter of Terri and Steven Chancellor made her mark on the walk and trot division with two winning rides from DeLovely. She won the UPHA 10 and Under Walk and Trot Challenge Cup then came back to win the 10 and Under Walk and Trot Equitation Championship. Abby Mutrux continued DeLovely's winning streak with the win in the UPHA 17 and Under Challenge Cup. Jacquelyn Beck jet sets across the country with instruction on the West Coast from Anne Speck at Rancho Del Mar and instruction in Kentucky at Zubrod Stables. With Del Mar Charity Fair fast approaching, Beck had her skills in good order to take the win in the NHS Good Hands class.
Brooke Jacobs won the USEF Adult Saddle Seat Medal, directed by Brent Jacobs and Sarah Taylor won the UPHA Adult Challenge Cup, directed by Cape Cod.
Anna Hormann bested a strong group to take the win in the Saddle Seat Pleasure Equitation Championship under the direction of Bill and Nancy Becker. Hormann had already won the 14-17 class. Taylor Newton, from Sugar Knoll, was the reserve grand champion and also won the Saddle & Bridle Pleasure Equitation Medallion.Christina Collis, from DeLovely, won the 13 and under class and Kristen Gardner closed out the equitation division with her win in the UPHA Pleasure Challenge Cup.Morgan PlayMor Farm brought a competitive group of Morgans to Indianapolis and went home with several wins and top ribbons including the Morgan Park Harness Stake win. Sammi Hazen rode Analyze That to the win for PlayMor Farm LLC. Indian Creek, also a powerhouse in the Morgan division at Indy, claimed the win in the Morgan Park Harness Stake. Will Huse drove Springmill Sequel to the win for Springmill Morgans in front of division judge Phil Price.
Ladies Champion HVK Drive Em Crazy continued the PlayMor win count with the English Pleasure Stake victory. Hazen was up for the winning ride, again for PlayMor Farm. Hylee's Cock Robin and owner Greta Keranen were the reserve grand champions. Fire & Brimstone won the open qualifier with owner Vicki Higgins up.
Indian Creek already had a big week at River Ridge and their success continued at Indy. Key Criterion and Shelby Lamm were two for two at Indy, finishing as the Amateur English Pleasure Grand Champions and amateur champions. French Episode and Anne Maile took the reserve streamers back to the Memory Lane tack room to follow up their successful show at River Ridge.
Claridge Armani and Alexandra Lawson won the junior exhibitor class for owner Margaret Williams. KE Flight Of A Star, having already won the open seat walk and trot pleasure class, added another blue with Haley Knauss up for Keesling. Knauss was named the winner of the Morgan Walk and Trot English Pleasure 11 and Under class.
Kurt Hufferd, from Indian Creek, was on board NDT French Impressionist to win the junior class and to continue a successful season after winning at River Ridge. The Last Don and Donna Zimmerman kept their great season going under the direction of Jim and Jenny Taylor with their winning team effort in the Pleasure Driving Championship. They came into the championship as the winners of the amateur qualifier, repeating their wins at River Ridge. Dragonsmeade Virtuoso and Judy Kjellander were the reserve grand champions from Indian Creek. FCF Immortal Affair and Susan Kanke won the open class and Jack Rabbit Slim and new owner Jacqueline Clapp won the ladies class. After debuting at River Ridge, their Indy win made this their second win in a row.
Fateful Heart had a busy week at Indy, with numerous wins and top ribbons including the win in the Classic Pleasure Stake with Tiffany Sharp riding for Robert Klumpp. They also won the open and ladies qualifiers. In the junior exhibitor qualifier, it was Courtney McIntosh's turn. She rode Fateful Heart to the blue ribbon to make it four for four in the classic pleasure division under the direction of Tom Sworm. The Vintage Touch and Stephanie Sedlacko were the Classic Pleasure Reserve Grand Champions for owner Judith Sanders.
FCF Capistrano and Kevin Bingaman went two for two in the classic pleasure driving division. They earned the tricolor and blue ribbons for Indian Creek Morgans.Dean Scott, from PlayMor Farm, had Bear's Braveheart in top form for the win in the Western Pleasure Stake and was followed in the ribbons by Cheryl Woosley and Ebony Dan D San, owned by Toni Smith. Woosley had already ridden to the blue ribbon in the ladies class and Olivia Lahr rode Ebony Dan to the blue in the junior exhibitor class.
AMHF Bal Du Masque, with Shanna Gish up, won the five-entry open class for Springmill Morgans to continue their good show. John Huse had previously qualified with the win in the amateur class. Haley Knauss and Genuine Jade won the Walk/Jog Western Pleasure 11 and Under class, then returned a short time later to win the Walk and Jog Western Equitation 11 and Under class to add two more wins to the Rosewood total.
The Hunter Pleasure Stake was the largest class of the Morgan division and Lowry Stables came away with the top two ribbons. Laine Vincent rode Walnut Ridge's Solid Gold to the tricolor with a solid effort, followed by Crestfield Hi Command and Susan Brown, winner of the open class. Solid Gold and Vincent had already won the ladies class. Olivia Lahr continued her winning ways at Indy when she rode JLS Night Track to the blue in the amateur class that hosted six strong competitors and also won the six-entry junior exhibitor class for Rosewood Farm.
Believe it or not, Lahr wasn't done yet. She also won the Hunt Seat Equitation On The Flat and AMHA Hunt Seat Medal On the Flat. Haley Knauss won the 11 and Under Hunt Seat Equitation class for yet another blue for Rosewood.
Sarah Lawson was the 17 and Under Morgan Equitation winner and bested a competitive group for the victory. Katarina Klumpp won the 11 and under walk and trot class. Lawson added another victory to her total when she was named the AMHA Saddle Seat Medal Champion.Carriage and FriesianDebbie Ecksten and Marko have consistently stayed at the top of the Friesian division and they followed up their good show at River Ridge with two more wins at Indy. They won the Friesian English Pleasure Walk and Trot Championship and qualifier under the Flat Rock Creek Farm banner. Hylke and Emily Abbot, directed by Mike McIntosh and Kathy Abbott Conflenti, were the reserve grand champions.Ed Murray made an appearance at Indy on behalf of the McKibbage family and it was a winning one. He drove Ypke fan Nijskou to the win in the Open Carriage Driving class for Casey McKibbage.
This highlights the winners from the Indianapolis Charity Horse Show. Complete results can be seen by clicking on SHOW RESULTS.
If you are not already registered for the Saddle Horse Report, you can register here.


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Is substance abuse a problem among seniors?
While the nation wages war on marijuana, cocaine, and other street drugs, roughly one out of five seniors struggles with a different kind of substance abuse. The drugs that have them in their grip — prescription medications and alcohol — are perfectly legal, but that doesn't make the addictions any less devastating to older people and their families.
Substance abuse by seniors can lead to depression, dramatic personality changes, memory loss, malnutrition, falls, several forms of cancer, heart disease, and early death. If you find yourself unable to get through the day without alcohol or a prescription drug, don't panic: call your doctor and get help. In addition, alcohol and tobacco cause the most illness and death of any addictive drugs, legal or illegal, according to the Society for the Study of Addiction.
Am I at risk for substance abuse?
According to a report in the Journal of the American Geriatric Society, seniors may be especially likely to become addicted to alcohol or prescription drugs if they suffer from depression, loneliness, boredom, stress, or chronic pain.
A history of substance abuse clearly increases the risk, but even a senior with a spotless past can suddenly succumb to a new addiction. In a Mayo Clinic survey of 100 elderly patients who abused prescription drugs, 35 began their dependency in their 60s or beyond.
Often the drugs of abuse are those prescribed to relieve suffering from stress and pain, but if the patient become addicted, the drugs then become part of the overall problem.
What drugs can cause addiction among seniors?
According to a report by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, when seniors misuse a substance it is most likely to be alcohol: Roughly 5.5 million older adults have alcohol problems, with sedatives a distant fourth on the list. Alcohol is socially acceptable, readily available, and, for many people, powerfully addictive. Changes in the body make seniors more sensitive to alcohol, and it may take relatively few drinks to cause intoxication or feed an addiction. The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism recommends that people over age 65 have no more than one drink per day.
Addiction to prescription drugs may be relatively uncommon, but it easily matches alcoholism in its ability to ruin lives. Here's a look at the prescriptions that most often cause trouble:
Barbiturates. These sedatives, often prescribed to treat insomnia, are particularly potent for seniors. Older bodies break down and eliminate the drugs slowly. Also, these drugs tend to be distributed in body fat, which tends to increase with advancing age; the stored drug is released gradually, prolonging the effects of the medication. The risk of addiction — not to mention the risk of falls and broken bones — is so great that no senior citizen should take the drug on a regular basis, experts say. If you suffer from insomnia, try nondrug treatments such as relaxation therapy, or ask your doctor about sedatives with less potential for addiction.
Diazepam (Valium), chlordiazepoxide (Librium), and similar sedatives. These "long half-life" sedatives, often prescribed to treat insomnia and anxiety, are designed to work slowly and linger in the blood. As with barbiturates, these drugs can accumulate in the body fat of seniors, carry a large risk of addiction, and increase the risk of falls. For this reason, experts in geriatric medicine say long half-life drugs should never be prescribed to people over 65. Unfortunately, many doctors haven't received the message; diazepam (Valium) alone is prescribed to roughly 100,000 seniors each year.
Morphine and other opioids. These powerful painkillers can definitely cause addiction, so physicians now recommend against using opioids for acute pain for more than 5 days, according to addiction psychiatrist Joe Sepulveda, MD, of San Diego. In addition, the drugs are not recommended for people with previous addictions.
What about illegal drugs?
Perhaps surprisingly, illegal drug use is on the rise among seniors, according to a recent Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration report. In what SAMHSA officials have called "the 'graying' of drug users in America," a 2017 report found that 1 million individuals aged 65 or older had a substance use disorder, including 978,000 older adults who abused alcohol and 161,000 who had an illicit drug use disorder.
What are the warning signs of an addiction?
Hardly anyone, young or old, ever admits to an addiction voluntarily. It's up to friends and family members to spot signs of trouble before it's too late: these include complaints of anxiety, depression, disorientation, apathy, panic attacks, mood swings, changes of appetite, sleep problems, paranoia, hallucinations, tremors, and failing memory. Conflicts at work, at volunteer positions, or with family members are also common. Finally, anyone who plans the day around drinking or goes from doctor to doctor seeking prescriptions is raising a red flag.
If you know or suspect your loved one is abusing alcohol or prescription drugs, it may be up to you to confront him or her about the problem. The Mayo Clinic for Medical Education and Research suggests the following guidelines:
Bring up the subject when your loved one is sober, not when he or she is drinking. The confrontation may go more smoothly if it's led by a professional trained in dealing with alcohol or drug abuse.
Be kind but firm: Explain to the abuser that he needs to get help or face the consequences, and that you can't be covering up for him anymore.
Don't engage in blame. Remember that alcoholism or another addiction is a disease, not a moral weakness.
Discuss the problem with a doctor and plan an intervention if necessary.
Don't wait until it's too late, and don't neglect your own needs. You may want to seek out counseling or an alcohol support group like Al-Anon.
How is substance abuse treated?
You may find that something as simple as a few counseling sessions and encouragement from your physician and family is all you need to break your addiction. This is especially true if the habit started late in life, if you have strong family and social support, and if there are no accompanying mental illnesses.
Seniors with more deep-rooted addictions may need to go through detoxification treatment followed by a rehabilitation program. Many seniors who misuse diazepam (Valium) and similar medications find that the craving vanishes as soon as the drug is out of their system. Patients who abuse alcohol, however, often require intensive programs such as Alcoholics Anonymous or another type of support group to prevent a relapse.
Older people often resist treatment, but they usually become model clients once it starts. They tend to follow directions more diligently than younger substance abusers, and they often prove better able to kick their habits. Because some older people have reported discomfort with the "profanity" in some support groups, some providers have created out-patient support groups for people 50 and older, such as Senior Hope in Albany, New York.
Substance Abuse Treatment for Older Adults. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. 2020. https://www.samhsa.gov/homelessness-programs-resources/hpr-resources/substance-use-treatment-older-adults
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. A Day in the Life of Older Adults: Substance Abuse Facts, 2017.
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. Adults aged 65 or older in substance abuse treatment.
Seniors and Alcohol and Seniors and Drugs. Anoka, MN: Minnesota Prevention Resource Center.
Brymer C, Rusnell I. Reducing substance dependence in elderly people: the side effects program. Can J Clin Pharmacol; 7(3):161-6.
Todtman K, Todtman D. Seniors Outreach Program: an alternative service for older people with substance use problems. J Health Care Poor Underserved; 8(4):405-8.
© HealthDay


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Paradise Lost are in the studio recording their 14th album.
In September, keyboardist Adrian Erlansson hinted Nick Holmes could return to the growling delivery heard in the band's early years. Now the frontman says the new material will embrace that period of their career.
He says: "We wanted to approach the new album differently this time by embracing the band's very early days. We have written a very dark yet melodic album. But this time, many songs definitely have a death metal edge which is something we haven't done for a long, long time."
They're recording the as-yet-untitled album at Orgone Studios in London with producer Jaimie Gomez Arellano. The follow-up to 2012's Tragic Idol is scheduled to launch in late April 2015 via Century Media Records.
Paradise Lost will play Finland's Helldone festival on December 29.


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Entries for the Wander Women Adventure Race in Tauranga are now open.
The Wander Women Adventure Race is created by women for women. It is a beginner-friendly race designed to empower women. It is about accepting the challenge and then going out there and doing it. Most importantly it is about having that well-needed girl's weekend away in a beautiful location.
The race will consist of 2 disciplines, running or trekking and mountain biking over a 3 or 6-hour course. There will also be some fun and exciting mystery activities.
This is a navigational race in teams of four, based on points. The team who gets the most amount of points in the fastest time wins. The idea is to complete the whole course to gain maximum points.
"It's really about empowering women and taking time for yourselves in an increasingly hectic world. It's having a fantastic weekend away with friends and forgetting about everything that needs to be done back in your everyday world."
After crossing the finish line, Wander Women will meet a celebratory atmosphere, with wine, food stalls and live music – after all, it is also about BALANCE.
Check it out on Facebook and at www.wanderwomen.co.nz
The Wander Women Race Team will consist of 4 fabulous women. You must be 13 years or older on race day. For each length race, there are 3 categories:
How it works
What are you waiting for?!


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When taking a look at customs buttons that it is the one that has created a new dimension and a look as well. This is due to the fact that there are many different clothing nowadays that have different looks and feel to them. Most of the time, buttons are used for stitching and sewing. When you look at buttons nowadays, though, they are the ones that are used as part of the advertising. It is a fact though that some people don't even know. Since the market is changing very fast that there are many changes that have happened but they are very effective nonetheless.
The earlier forms of custom buttons are the ones that were the core element of ever garment of accessory. If you look at buttons today that they still do serve its purpose and they are able to improve the overlook look of clothes at the same time. Custom buttons are the ones that address stability and style to every garment and give the wearer a unique look. If you are looking for a stylish embellishment in any clothing then the custom buttons will be able to do that either in a formal or casual wear. With the advent of technology though, custom buttons have also developed. This has given the designers a lot of creative freedom in creating the clothes that they have. Customers now have a great time wearing clothes with custom buttons in them as they give style and a new look. Custom buttons are also the ones that are able to give you that personal and customize look in every clothing that you have.
Custom buttons nowadays have a been integral in marketing and advertising. They have made new waves in the online with the various magical pieces that were created. With the help of custom buttons that you are now able to utilize it in order to grab the attention of viewers and online users all over the world. The amazing designs and colors that these buttons have make it hard to ignore which helps on engaging viewers. A custom button is also the one that can start engagement among your viewers which can help you land more clients and that is a very good thing when it comes to a business standpoint. Click on this link for more.
And that is why if you do want to have a fast ROI then you should see to it that you will be utilizing these custom buttons. You need to make sure though that you will get the help of professionals in order to get the results that you want. Visit this website for more: https://www.wikihow.life/Sew-a-Button.


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Williamson Valley School District No. 2
Monday, March 12, 2018 – 4:00 PM
Williamson Valley Fire Station, 15450 N. Williamson Valley Road, Prescott, Az.
The Governing Board of the Williamson Valley School District will meet in a Regular Session as indicated above. The Board may vote to go into executive session to discuss and consider any items pursuant to A.R.S. 38-431.03. The following topics and any variables thereto, will be subject to Board consideration, discussion, approval or other action. All items are set for possible action. The Governing Board may consider any item on this agenda in any order and at any time during the meeting.
Call Meeting to Order
Approval of Minutes
February 12, 2018, Regular Board Meeting: Expense Voucher #8108 – FY18. Payroll Time Sheets for Pay Periods 17 and 18 for 2017-2018.
Limited Open Call to the Public
Acknowledge any individual who has signed in to address the board regarding an agenda item, reminding them of the three minute time limit per person for comments. Board members may not discuss any items that are not listed on the meeting agenda. Therefore, action taken as a result of public comment will be limited to further study and/or scheduling of the matter for discussion at a later date on a future agenda.
Old Business
New Business
- Current Bus Issues: Current bus issues to discuss?
- ASBAIT Renewal – Review and sign.
- Yavapai County Attorney – Waiver of Conflict of Interest : Review and sign.
- RSEBT Meeting Minutes from 3-7-2018 – Review.
Next board meeting date, time & place: Monday, April 9, 2018 – 4:00 PM @ Williamson Valley Fire Station, 15450 N. Williamson Valley Road, Prescott, Az.


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What do all the apps you are using know about you? The latest update of Android software this year is focused on security and privacy, which is why the IT giant has put in the forefront the ability to control the data that Android 12 gives users.
The update is already available in beta version and will be officially unveiled in a few months, and then newer of the three billion Android-powered devices will be able to be upgraded to that Google software. The company, which unveiled small changes and greater features at its developer conference, has released add-ons, some of which are very similar to features already available in Apple's iOS, while others preserve user privacy in completely new ways, which is important looking at many aspects of user activities, especially sensitive ones, such as online payment or betting online on most sought after bookmakers (many of which are here).
Control What Apps Access to With "Privacy Dashboard"
Android 12 adds a "Privacy Dashboard" that shows which apps have utilized potentially sensitive permissions in the previous 24 hours. This feature breaks down the activities of applications by categories – such as "Location", "Camera", and "Microphone" – and then shows you which applications have accessed these mechanisms.
Google will also ask developers to provide additional information about what they used the access for at that particular time. And through the "Privacy Dashboard", you can also adjust or revoke application permissions. It provides more insight into how apps run in the background, especially because it includes information that tells you, not only whether there was access to your location or your microphone, but also at what point and for how long.
Additionally, Android 12 introduces a green indicator light in the upper right corner of any screen, which turns on if you use your smartphone's microphone or camera. Last year, Apple's iOS 14 included a similar functionality. In Android, however, simply scrolling notifications down opens more details about which app is using the microphone or camera and why, and from there, you get easy access to revoke the permission if you want.
Disable Spying With Two Clicks in "Quick Settings"
Google also adds two controls to Android's "Quick Settings" to completely turn off camera access or microphone access for all apps. Pressing one or both buttons is the software equivalent of putting a sticker over a webcam, the company said. It does not revoke application permissions – it simply disables reading information from the camera sensor.
Most importantly, the operating system itself turns off the camera and microphone, which means that applications do not know when they are enabled. Otherwise, malicious applications can potentially record when the camera and microphone are turned off and look for other ways to monitor potentially sensitive activities.
Ability to Share Only the Approximate Position of the Application
When it comes to sharing permission information with apps, Android already offers the option to share location information once, instead of committing to sharing it whenever the app wants. Android 12 actually goes a step further by adding the ability to share only approximate positions with the app. This way you do not have to tell the weather apps where you live or work to get a forecast in your neighborhood. Apple's mobile operating system introduced a similar feature in iOS 14 last year.
As with sharing your exact location, Android 12 offers three options for sharing your device's approximate location with apps: "While I'm using the app", "Only this time", or "Do not allow."
"App Hibernation" to Keep the App on Your Phone but Under Control
The Android team continues to introduce its "Auto-reset permissions" program, which was first announced for Android 11. The idea is to reset the permissions for apps you have not used in a long time, so they do not stay for access they do not need. If you want to revoke their permissions later, you can always do so.
Android 12 also extends this idea with a new feature called "App Hibernation". In addition to removing permissions from apps you have not used in a long time, this additional step will completely stop running apps in the background, remove all temporary and optimization files that the app stores on your device, and remove the ability for the app to send notifications.
If you touch the "App Hibernation", it will come to life and re-establish its presence while you are using it. But application permissions are not returned automatically.


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The Loop
Renegar builds off past success with Rx14 wedges
The Rx14 ($145) as deeper grooves that veteran designer Bob Renegar says increase spin by 3 percent. It's also cast from 303 stainless steel for a softer feel. Finally, the club's overall weight is 12 to 14 grams lighter.
But Renegar, whose work on the unique design dates to 1993, isn't done yet. Next up are plans for a new five-step forged version called the RxF that offers a completely custom-built four-wedge set matched for any number of parameters, including swingweight, static weight, length, balance point and lie angle.
*Interested in more stories on equipment? Signup to receive Golf Digestix, a weekly digital magazine that offers the latest news, new product introductions and behind-the-scenes looks at all things equipment. *


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Health Is Wealth – Physical Education
Posted by Dr. Beth Reaves
Physical Education. The terminology implies teaching students the subject of being physical, much like Spanish education or Math education teaches students the subject matter. In the past, this interpretation of physical education has led to instruction dedicated to motor skills and knowledge, reinforcing to students the benefits of physically active behaviors. Over the past decade however, the focus on physical education in many schools, including WSG, has shifted towards helping students embrace a healthy lifestyle and overall wellness for their lives, in addition to physical activity. It is thought to be a way for students to learn habits and skills that will benefit them over the course of their lives, establishing a pattern of well-being. In addition, ,The Hunt Institute in 2021 shared the following regarding Physical Education "P.E. [physical education] has been one of the most challenging subjects to teach online, but the irony is, students need P.E. now more than ever, not just for physical health but mental health." ( Patricia Suppe, president of the California Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance). Living through the stress of a pandemic is exactly the reason why we want our students to embrace healthy habits. What does physical education look like during a pandemic, with remote learning or hybrid learning?
At WSG, Physical Education teacher Coach Lawhorne knows just how important it is to continually adapt the program to keep students engaged and moving, despite the challenge with learning spaces on campus or while remote learning from home. As a result, she embraced this opportunity to creatively think about physical education, creating a curriculum and overall wellness focused program that encourages students to be physically active while at home, creatively uses any available space while at school, and also incorporates spiritual and mental nourishment. During remote learning, students were challenged to create their own fitness tutorials and learned exercise and healthy movement methods that they will be able to utilize throughout their lives. She offered opportunities for mental health check-ins with students (and WSG graduates, now in high school), creating spaces for them to share concerns about isolation at home. Through an overarching commitment to student wellness, WSG counselors, teachers and staff collaborated on supporting student's overall emotional health. When students returned to campus this school year, the challenges to offering physical activity were different due to social distancing requirements, limited outdoor activity space and a lack of a dedicated physical education space. Coach Lawhorne adapted the program again, leading the girls through an incredibly successful step and dance program, held in classrooms. The students' enthusiasm and engagement in the step routines provided a needed continuation of physical activity at school. Their classroom routines were shared in a school wide showcase in December (featured here), and instilled a fun aspect to their learning.
One of the challenges since the beginning of the pandemic however has been finding ways to get students to still embrace physical activities and wellness each day, even while away from the school building. With a focus on healthy eating, physical movement and activities, combined with spiritual nourishment and balance throughout the pandemic, students at WSG have been encouraged to develop the habits and perspective needed for them to build and maintain a healthy lifestyle.


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A fruit vendor in Hà Nội. COVID-19 pademic and its negative impacts make informal workers like her face more difficulties to make a living. — VNA/VNS Photo Thanh Tùng |
HÀ NỘI — The Government's social protection support policy has struggled to prevent vulnerable people from falling into poverty and to protect those already poor from descending deeper into poverty due to COVID-19 pandemic, a survey has found.
The survey was run by the United Nations Development Programme, UN Women and the Centre for Analysis and Forecast under the Việt Nam Academy of Social Sciences (CAF/VASS) to assess the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on vulnerable households, especially those of ethnic minorities and internal migrant and informal workers.
The telephone survey conducted in April and May this year got responses from 930 vulnerable households and 935 household businesses, micro small and medium-sized enterprises in 58 out of 63 provinces across Việt Nam.
The survey's findings were included in the report 'COVID-19 Socio-economic Impact on Vulnerable households and Enterprises: a gender-sensitive assessment' that was released last week.
Under Việt Nam's social protection support packages targeting vulnerable groups, financial support was given to people for three months from April to June.
Regular social assistance beneficiaries and people who contributed to the nation including veterans were eligible for VNĐ500,000/person per month; poor and near-poor people VNĐ250,000/person per month, workers with temporarily suspended labour contracts without salaries VNĐ1.8 million/person per month; informal workers who lost their jobs without labour contracts and who lacked social insurance VNĐ1 million/person per month; and affected household businesses with annual revenue less than VNĐ100 million VNĐ1 million/month.
According to the Ministry of Labour, Invalid and Social Affairs, by June 18, the cash transfers have been made to 98.7 per cent of regular social assistance beneficiaries, 109.8 per cent of those who contributed to the nation (more were found eligible than the initial estimate) and 72.1 per cent of poor and near-poor households.
In sharp contrast, only 1.14 per cent of eligible workers with temporarily suspended labour contracts received support. Just 0.24 per cent of workers who had their contracts terminated and were not eligible for unemployment insurance benefits were aided, with the figure being 0.6 per cent among workers without labour contracts and social insurance that lost their jobs.
As for household businesses with annual revenues of less than VNĐ100 million that suspended operations due to the pandemic, just 1.28 per cent got the cash.
"If the Government's social protection package was delivered on time, for example, if monthly cash transfers were made in April and May and reached all the originally intended groups, the national income poverty rate could have been as little as 17.2 per cent and 9.9 per cent instead of 26.7 per cent and 15.8 per cent if no cash transfers were made in the two months," said Director of CAF/VASS Nguyễn Thắng.
The report shows COVID-19 has caused income to decline substantially across vulnerable households and workers, resulting in a surge in transient income poverty and pushing chronically poor households further into income poverty.
The highest decline in household income due to COVID-19 was recorded in April, with the average income of surveyed households in the month only 29.7 per cent of the December 2019 level. The figure increased to 51.1 per cent in May.
The average income of surveyed households declined by more than 70 per cent in April and 49 per cent in May, compared to December 2019.
"Transient poverty was a challenge for poverty-targeting of social protection support to lessen the negative impacts of the pandemic," Thắng said.
"The rapid change in the poverty situation resulted in the social protection support package missing many households and people that became poor and near-poor since the pandemic's outbreak, notably the vulnerable (lower middle income) households in rural areas," he added.
The report also identified several groups left out of or under-served by the Government social protection support package, both by policy design and implementation.
For examples, families of young workers, especially those with small children, single mothers and/or single bread-winners, those without savings and with house rent burdens, families with members suffering from serious illnesses and under treatment in specialised hospitals, with people with disabilities and the elderly.
These families by design were not eligible for the social protection package even though many of them lost jobs and income and became poor/near-poor.
Complex rules and procedures in identifying and verifying eligibility prevented several groups from accessing the package.
These groups include formal workers that lost jobs or had their hours or wages cut but were not eligible for unemployment insurance benefits, informal workers that lost their job or experienced income reductions and affected enterprises that had insufficient resources to pay their workers.
People also found barriers to accessing Government support, such as the requirements for applications for support for laid-off workers to be submitted by their employer, or applications for support for internal migrant workers to be certified at both the original and destination places of migrant workers.
Caitlin Wiesen, Resident Representative of UNDP in Việt Nam, said the actions of the Government of Việt Nam and the innovation of the Vietnamese people had been key to Việt Nam's initial success in containing the COVID-19 pandemic and in limiting its negative socio-economic impacts.
"I believe that similar anticipatory approaches and innovations will play a critical role in helping Vietnamese enterprises and people achieve a bold, sustainable, resilient and gender-sensitive recovery", she said.
Elisa Fernandez, UN Women Vietnam Head of Office, said the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic were not equal among different groups of people, nor between women and men.
"COVID-19 may be more lethal for men, but the socio-economic impacts of the pandemic are hitting women the hardest and exacerbating existing social and economic inequalities.
"A recent study by McKinsey shows that at the global level, women's jobs are 1.8 times more vulnerable to this crisis than men's jobs.
"Women make up 39 per cent of global employment but account for 54 per cent of overall job losses", Fernandez said.
"If gender differences in the economic impacts COVID-19, including the burden of care and risk of gender-based violence, are not addressed adequately, it could have a serious impact on women's ability to fully participate in the economy in the longer term.
"Gender-responsive recovery measures should include strengthening childcare support and respond services, enable women's access to new sources of employment, reskilling opportunities, and access to credit for women-lead business", Fernandez said.
Thắng from CAF said a top priority was to assist people and communities vulnerable to extreme poverty because of the pandemic.
"The impact of lost employment and earnings is felt most deeply by the poor. Government action should help those people who have the smallest margin of safety, for whom the loss of income for a few months is catastrophic," he said.
He emphasised the need to speed up public work programmes that would help generate jobs and incomes as well as cash transfers to protect the livelihood of vulnerable people and boost domestic demand.
He also suggested expanding regular social assistance - cash transfer - targeting categories such as people with disabilities and their carer, children under 6 and elderly aged from 60 to 79, pregnant women or considering the expansion to single-parents working in informal sectors.
A residence-based system of social protection, which excludes internal migrant workers, should be changed to the one based on national citizenship, for example through the digitalisation of registration and verification of eligibility to the application of digital payment tools. — VNS


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The delivery to MINSA of Nicaragua made by the MECHNIKOV Institute is also a contribution in the fight against COVID-19 since the wide application of influenza vaccines is considered important due to the early diagnosis of coronavirus infection and the innate immunity that it supposedly produces.
The MECHNIKOV Institute is the only plant in Central America that produces this type of vaccine, thus guaranteeing its distribution in both Central American countries and other Latin American countries. Located in the Republic of Nicaragua, the Institute is capable of supplying a large number of countries with vaccines.


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UNPOPULAR OPINION: You can't love God and act like the world. My toxic trait is wanting to walk in God's anointing but act worldly too. I wanna quote all the Bible scriptures AND rap all of the lyrics to Megan Thee Stallion. (I know all of them too). I wanna shine for God but be LIT like the world. It's a place of tension because I (personally) can't do both. The more I indulge in one—the less I desire the other. Indulging means allowing yourself the pleasures of things that typically aren't "good" for you while leaving little to no room for the things that ARE good for you. I know which satisfies my soul and which rattles it. When I lack peace, patience or become reactive—I know they're the side effects of indulging to satisfy my flesh. Staying close to God is the only anecdote yet I sometimes allow my carnal appetite to dictate my consumption. When I'm reaching out more for the world, it's because I've loosened my grip of Him. If you're struggling with wandering and you KNOW God has called you to give some things up—then this is for you. He wants to take you HIGHER but first you must go DEEPER. You have to resist, refuse and remove those things that continue to trip you up. Your intentionality will loosen that tension, provide clarity, open doors, and create an intimacy with God you've truly been craving. Listen, there's NO CONDEMNATION. He knew you would wander—He doesn't call us His sheep for nothing. We have no sense of direction, defenseless, and are easily distracted. I pray you tap into the voice of the Shepherd and turn from the chatter of the world. You accomplish more when you mute one and lean into the other. It's time to get back into the fold. You're better there.
Don't forget to get your copy of SPARK. It truly helps you stay close to the One who matters. Get yours here.


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When it comes to infants (6-12 month olds), reading should not be perceived as one-way communication but considered a very important tool for stimulation.
In this article:
Life offers a multitude of joys but very few matches up to moments that spell pure bliss. Talking to an infant, for instance, is one of those moments. Although the minuscule creature may not be able to respond to you but the twinkle in his eyes would hold the power to light up not only the room but also make up for the electricity supply for the entire colony.
Why Read to My Baby?
Remember, today a reader, tomorrow a leader." – Margaret Fuller. The benefits of reading to your baby are aplenty. Reading to the mind is what food is to the body. When it comes to infants, whose interaction and responding skills are limited, reading can become an important form of stimulation. Moreover, reading aloud to your baby can become an awesome "baby-mommy" activity.
"There is more treasure in books than in all the pirate's loot on Treasure Island," said Walt Disney and he was damn right. Well, there is no right time to begin reading. Apart from singing lullabies and rhymes to your little honey bunch, which I'm sure you do, you could also read to your infant.
Between 4 and 6 months, your baby might actually begin to develop and show interest in books. Babies will try to grab and hold books, put it in their mouth and even suckle or chew on them. Hence it is important to invest in cloth books or books with a sturdy material. Make sure the book have huge pictures and bright colors accompanied with repetitive or rhyming text. Picture books with bare minimum texts can help the babies focus on faces, bright colors, and contrasting patterns.
Between 6 and 12 months, when your little one's brain is already making strong associations between pictures and real-life objects is most likely to respond to you while you read, try to grab the book and make sounds. By the time, they turn one, they should be able to flip pages (of course with some help from you).
Below we have listed some interesting and impactful books that you can begin with.
The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle
The book is a personal favorite and a total stunner. What allures is the sheer simplicity of the book. It takes the reader on a journey of a newborn caterpillar who is on an eating spree.
What actually gives the baby a tactile experience is the cut away pages story of the book. The prime attraction is the hole that runs through the book as though a caterpillar has actually crawled through. Those wee little fingers will enjoy exploring the path and holes the caterpillar leaves behind as he munches his way through the yummy snacks.
Five Little Monkeys Jumping on the Bed by Eileen Christelow
"Five Little Monkeys Jumping on the Bed, one fell down and bumped his head…" is a very peppy and popular rhyme. This chirpy song is a fun way to introduce numbers to your kids. Complementing the already popular rhyme, this picture book features five little monkeys preparing for bedtime, as they wash, put on their pajamas, brush their teeth and then jump on the bed, falling off one-by-one. Kids fall head over heels in love with the repetition, rhyme scheme and the charades that go with the song.
Harold and the Purple Crayon
This picture book has some rib-tickling twists and turns as it takes you on a joyride with young Harold and his wonderful adventures. Your kid will be enticed with Harold's World and his oversized Purple crayon who is his only companion then, Harold draws for himself a landscape that is full of beauty and adventure.
Green Eggs and Ham by Dr Suess
No list is ever complete without the Mention of Dr Suess who is the Baap of the reading world for children. Ranked among UK's top favorite children authors, no child should ever grow up without reading them. The way he weaves words together or sets the rhyme scheme actually help kids develop basic language skills. This is one of the many books penned by Dr Suess.
When you read to your child you open their minds in ways you can never gauge and freewheel their imagination. Like Albert Einstein puts it across, "Imagination is the purview of life's coming attractions."
Once done with above, you can also explore Books Every Parent Should Read to their Kids or Books For Kids To Read During Rainy Season.


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The story of a young female singing trio in the turbulent 1960s is coming to the Murat Theatre in Indianapolis, Indiana, in September. Thanks to the work of the Indiana Performing Arts Theatre, people will have the opportunity to see the musical Dreamgirls on Sept. 18 and 19, 2021.
Dreamgirls opened on Broadway in 1981 and was made into a movie in 2006.
In the show, a young female singing trio gets its big break at an amateur competition as Motown music becomes popular with white and black audiences. But things begin to spin out of control when the group's opportunistic promoter demotes the talented lead singer in favor of one of the more glamorous backup singers. Their journey to stardom and love becomes full of challenges.
Trina Dingle founded Indiana Performing Arts Theatre in 2000. Her goal was to spread diversity in the arts. There was a lack of roles for people of color in theatrical productions, so she went to work to change that. The theatre secured nonprofit status in 2005. Although Dingle is now the full-time executive director of the Indiana Performing Arts Centre, Inc. (the theatre's administrative arm), for years she had a regular job and devoted her free time to build diversity in the arts.
"It has been a long battle," Dingle said.
But Dingle persevered, secured foundation funding and built up a talented team.
Key members of the team are Dee DuVall, artistic director and Kila J. Adams, production manager, both of whom have extensive experience in theater. They lead and develop the productions' soulful singing, elegant costuming and graceful choreography.
Indiana Performing Arts Centre, Inc. produces two main-stage shows a year. In addition to cabaret shows at its headquarters at the Athenaeum Theatre in Indianapolis, there are musical theater workshops and training classes for ages 13 and up as well as a youth theater camp.
Earlier this year the theatre produced The Color Purple in Indianapolis, at the Embassy Theatre in Fort Wayne, and other Indiana cities. A Motown Christmas show is set for December.
DuVall, who is directing Dreamgirls, is also a talented singer, actor and dancer. Those talents help her envision the best way to stage a show.
"At the end of the day we are a professional Broadway company," DuVall said. "The engine that drives us is to spotlight local talent and show our audiences that we are diversifying productions."
One of the theatre's challenges, Dingle said, is that people are unaware of its existence.
Dingle and her team continue to spread the word about the Indiana Performing Arts Theatre and its shows.
"Audience members will take away a rich cultural experience," Dingle said. "It's rare to see an all-black musical. It's all about cultural awareness — and to have the local talent to do it is an accomplishment."
The organization is committed to finding opportunities to perform for actors of color and to providing audiences of all colors the chance to see shows that demonstrate a more diverse human experience.
For groups, the theatre offers meet and greets and talks with cast members after performances.


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It seems hard to believe that we're more than a month into a new year, and with it, a new and ever-changing technological landscape. Looking back on the previous year, …
Recently, the Google Ads team sent shockwaves through the digital advertising world with a blog post about the privacy-first web.
While it contained some interesting thoughts on the new ecosystem we're all trying to usher in, the article is actually not a huge deal.
Below, we'll talk about why much of the industry reacted the way it did, how Google's approach impacts Mediavine publishers and why you shouldn't panic. In fact, you should be more confident than ever.
Leif Lessons
- After finding its FLoC testing to be 95% as effective as third-party cookies, Google is doubling down on their Privacy Sandbox.
- The Privacy Sandbox is Google's suite of solutions designed to allow us all to maintain some level of ad personalization, targeting and measurement while prioritizing and protecting user privacy.
- While Google won't accept third-party identifiers based on email hashes, it's okay. They never have.
- There's a very healthy ad ecosystem outside of Google!
- As Google and Mediavine both say, the future of programmatic ads is first-party data collecting by publishers.
- Grow is our engagement toolkit designed to build enhanced web experiences based on first-party data. It's designed to work in tandem with Google's Privacy Sandbox and can be enabled today in your Mediavine Dashboard.
- With Google's Privacy Sandbox + Grow, Mediavine publishers will weather the death of third-party cookies in Chrome and come out on top.
Google made three key announcements in its blog post, which we're going to discuss.
Going All-In on the Privacy Sandbox
Google is doubling down on the Privacy Sandbox, which should come as a shock to exactly no one. The architects and proponents of the Privacy Sandbox are, well, still proponents of the Privacy Sandbox.
With good reason. This is the company whose early FLoC testing found its cohorting methods to be 95% as effective as third-party cookies.
Google should be expected to hype its own products, especially given the promising early results. So why were people surprised?
For one, not everyone is as proactive as Mediavine.
Some industry players were probably hoping that Google might back down and either stick with third-party cookies or find workarounds that more closely resembled that type of tracking.
No such luck for anyone operating under those (misguided) hopes or assumptions. Cookies' days are numbered on Chrome.
Personally, we see the Privacy Sandbox as preserving some level of ad personalization, targeting and measurement while preserving user privacy in ways that haven't been prioritized until now.
It's all a balancing act, but it's headed in the right direction.
A Gut-Punch to Email-Hash Identifiers Like Unified ID 2.0 and LiveRamp ATS?
This part of the article in particular roiled more than a few people in ad tech. In its pledge not to track individual users, Google said that it won't accept third-party identifiers based on email hashes.
Without naming names, this is a careful but clearly worded way of saying they're not going to support Unified ID 2.0 and LiveRamp ATS.
You may recognize those two names thanks to their integrations with Grow, Mediavine's user engagement suite and first-party data solution.
As the first publisher live with Unified ID 2.0, you might think Mediavine would be concerned or surprised by this statement.
Nope. Again, this should shock absolutely no one (even though it clearly has).
Google Ad Exchange (the Google SSP) and Google DV 360 (the Google DSP) have historically never accepted or used a third-party identifier in the open marketplace — not the original Unified ID 1.0 nor LiveRamp's IDL — which have both been out for years.
There was no reason to think they would suddenly adopt 2.0 or LiveRamp now. However, despite confirmation of Google's position, this week's trade magazine reports of the untimely death of UID 2.0 and LiveRamp ATS are greatly exaggerated.
Remember, there's a healthy ad ecosystem outside of Google on both the SSP and DSP side; both already work with or have pledged to work with LiveRamp and Unified ID 2.0.
These solutions have never been and were never going to be accepted by Google, so their blog post changed nothing. The future is bright for both, as we'll discuss more in a little bit but first, one more point:
Some industry players interpret this week's announcement as Google saying it won't even track its own logged-in users. If that's true, it's great for independent publishers.
Google represents one of the largest pools of authenticated users, rivaling places like Facebook. If Google doesn't take advantage of this, it creates a huge opportunity for publishers to capitalize on.
As always, digital marketers will always seek efficient paths to target their exact customers. Independent publishers with authenticated traffic will be in an increasingly strong position to fill this void.
First-Party Relationships are Vital
This was the biggest takeaway in Google's post and what Mediavine set as our highest priority for 2021 many months ago.
While the Privacy Sandbox and email hashing talk had the ad tech world abuzz, many observers overlooked the fact that Google shouted from the rooftops what we've been telling you for what feels like forever:
The future of our industry is first-party data.
Google won't use things like LiveRamp and Unified ID 2.0 that Grow integrates with to help publishers generate authenticated traffic, but it encourages — and will use — other forms of first-party data.
The company writes:
"Developing strong relationships with customers has always been critical for brands to build a successful business, and this becomes even more vital in a privacy-first world. We will continue to support first-party relationships on our ad platforms for partners, in which they have direct connections with their own customers."
When it comes to Grow and why Mediavine went all-in building our own first-party data solution, the above excerpt perfectly sums it up.
How Grow builds first-party relationships
Grow is an engagement toolkit that builds enhanced web experiences which are the key to user consent and first-party data collection.
Step 1: Get users to consent to personalized ads
The key to any first-party data strategy is encouraging audiences to consent to personalized ads and, ideally, fully authenticate with an email address.
Grow has been building terrific features (e.g. save recipe, favoriting, recommended content, with many more in the pipeline) to help web publishers naturally encourage this user behavior.
Step 2: Unified ID 2.0 and LiveRamp ATS start the first-party data revolution
In the short term, as you encourage your readers to log in and consent to personalized ads via providing their email addresses, you can utilize Unified ID 2.0 and LiveRamp ATS.
Google may not embrace their email hashing, but as we said, much of the rest of the ecosystem will, and both of these solutions have significant spend behind them in the open marketplace.
Unified ID 2.0 and LiveRamp ATS are essential in providing the scale and performance that ultimately drive the majority of advertisers to a first-party data world and proving the ROI (return on investment) behind a first-party data strategy.
Step 3: Actually start generating first-party data yourself
Any reader who logs into your site through Grow is actually helping you authenticate traffic and making you more money.
But the broader goal, which goes far beyond that, is that Grow will begin helping publishers collect data in the future.
Whether that's demographics, interest groups, contextual or whatever else the market shifts to, Grow will be uniquely positioned as an expansive platform — one reaching across thousands of domains with authenticated readers consenting to personalized ads.
But the important thing with all three steps is starting now. This isn't some theoretical roadmap; it's happening today.
While others talk about the end of cookies and importance of first-party data in the abstract, we've built a solution years ahead of the curve.
Google and Mediavine Are Aligned on the Path Forward
The web has always been a fast-changing and dynamic experiment. We are now entering a phase where user privacy is no longer an afterthought — solutions must be architected with this goal in mind.
While any shift of this magnitude can be unsettling, we see the coming years as an opportunity to help shape a more secure, open, efficient advertising marketplace through Grow and our amazing partners.
In its blog post, Google has effectively stated that its priorities are aligned with Mediavine and Grow on every front.
In uncertain times like these, that's something to feel good about.
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Working from home: how do I organise it?
As an employer, you are responsible for health and safety in the workplace, even if your employees are working from home. You can do this by providing your employees with a good home workstation. Below, we describe the available options when organising this.
The 'Arbo' regulations also apply at home
Refund the purchase price
Provide home-working furniture on loan
For full control over the (Arbo-standard) quality of the home workstation you can provide every employee with a (new or used) home workstation on loan if they ask for one. In this case the workstation belongs to you, and if the employee leaves the company the loan agreement ends and the furniture is collected. This approach involves a lot more work (although it can be outsourced), but it shows that you are taking responsibility for the well being of your employees. And it also puts an end to any tax issues.
The experience of Rob Keulemans, Director Business Development and homeworking expert:
"It is not a good idea to pass the entire responsibility onto the employee individually. We have learned that when given a budget to spend freely, only few employees spend it on homeworking furniture. Whereas most employees on a fixed home-working budget do."
Home workstation on credit
Another possibility is to allow every employee the opportunity to buy their own (Arbo-compliant) home workstation on credit (interest-free pre-finance) if they ask for it. The workstation belongs to the employee, so there are no issues with return logistics, storage, cleaning or refurbishing (but remember to arrange for the balance to be paid immediately if an employee leaves shortly after the purchase). More and more companies are taking up this option as it helps them navigate the process with the support of a reliable outsourcing partner.


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The New York Times go with the angled arrows to show the shifts in racial population. The red-orange arrows show an increase in the share of white population, and the teal arrows show an increase in the share of people of color. Longer arrows mean a greater percentage point change.
Whereas The Washington Post focused more on the changes for each demographic individually, NYT focused more on how two broad groups compared.


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The reality TV genre ostensibly allows TV viewers to peek into the real lives of people with whom, otherwise, they would have no contact. Reality shows keep the cameras on people auditioning for fame and recognition, wealthy housewives, Fair Go casino players, dysfunctional (rich) families, fashion models, beach bunnies, roommates, athletes, people involved in dating, love triangles, teen parents, starlets, people stranded on desert islands and others. Today, there seems to be a reality show for almost every possible behavior or life situation. Let's see to reality TV history.
How did TV go from scripted dramas and comedies to shows that seem almost voyeuristic in nature?
Reality TV
Reality TV began to become popular in the mid-1990s. Over the years, such shows often dominated ratings as viewers were drawn to the dramatized drama of real peoples everyday lives. Many viewers would be surprised to hear that the first reality TV show was actually on public television and appeared in 1973 as the non-commercial Public Broadcasting System's American Family.
American Family aired over the course of two months, offering an intimate look at a single American family while, at the same time, critiquing American society. Since PBS isn't dependent on advertising revenue it was able to broadcast its experimental program without facing pressure from advertisers who generally prefer that their ads appear in shows that don't rock the boat.
American Family was broadcast to an audience that was accustomed to light sitcoms where, by the end of the show, everything resolved to everyone's satisfaction. Today's audiences are a bit more sophisticated so they are more open and accepting of "unscripted dramas." They also acknowledge a reality show's staging and are aware, at some level, that a "reality show" doesn't reflect true reality.
American Family didn't come close to the manipulative and staged dramas of today's reality TV. Whereas American Family was designed to present a somewhat accurate portrayal of an American family, today's reality shows are meant to entertain – often through shock and outrage. They don't make any attempt to raise larger social, cultural, philosophical or existential questions. Rather, they feature aspirational worlds rather than mirrors of real people and real lives.
Today's reality TV is simply meant to offer an escape from reality, something that American Family never considered.
American Family
American Family was a revolutionary type of TV program that producer Craig Gilbert envisioned as a way to force audiences to confront issues of importance to American society as they related to individual American families. The show focused on the Loud family of Santa Barbara California – father Bill, mother Pat and their five children.
Whereas today's reality TV constructs and contrives situations, American Family was meant to involve an observational filming style – a cinéma vérité approach — that simply recorded natural interactions within the family rather than involving a complex editorial arrangement.
Gilbert believed that by simply filming a family in the course of their day-to-day activities, the camera would capture significant insights. He wanted to film a "normal" family because he thought that that would be the best way to put America's societal issues in the spotlight.
He sought to focus on confusion over gender roles, individualism, the changing technological landscape, evolving ideas regarding work and self-expression, tensions arising as a result of the generation gap and other family dynamics.
These issues were making families anxious, Gilbert thought, and needed to be looked at in an open and honest way. There were sitcoms that focused on such issues but they did so with laugh tracks that covered over discomfort and had endings that resolved all the issues into nice, tight packages. Arguments and conflicts were not explored in any depth and the shows skirted many relevant cultural subjects.
Normal Family
Gilbert's solution was to find a "reassuringly comfortable…..perfect" family that viewers could relate to. He wanted An American Family to show viewers a "normal" American family and then raise larger issues for people to consider. The divisive issues came out faster than anyone expected – son Lance revealed his homosexuality and issues that had been bubbling under the surface for years between parents Bill and Pat came spewing out, causing the couple to start divorce proceedings.
Critics and viewers were shocked to find the kinds of subjects that were simmering within this, supposedly "normal" family. Pat Loud asked Gilbert "What the hell is this series supposed to be about?" to which Gilbert responded "It's about how you and I and everyone in this room and everyone in this country is fumbling around trying to make sense out of their lives."
One reviewer acknowledged that "Most viewers will experience the shock of recognition." Hundreds of viewers sent letters to Gilbert in which they thanked him for the series and expressed their sentiments that they no longer felt so alone in their family struggles.
In many ways, American Family was a success, even though it aired 12 episodes and disappeared. The Loud family's criticism – even though they reviewed footage for approval before each episode was packaged – discouraged any imitations. But the impact that it had on the era is undeniable.
The reality shows of today bear no resemblance to American Family in their unrealistic and highly scripted portrayals of various populations. They aim for commercial appeal which was not a concern of American Family which, as a public broadcasting project, was under no obligation to make money.
Most importantly, today's reality TV doesn't challenge viewers in any type of thoughtful or critical manner. But reality TV of today does owe a debt of gratitude to its American Family forerunner.