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"Now Lazarus was sick." I doubt there is a one of us who has not experienced the sickness, even to death, of one we love. There's a unique agony that goes with watching someone you love suffer and know that he or she is slipping from your grasp. That agony was Martha's and Mary's. And, of course, it was Jesus' agony, too. We like to think that, knowing what he had in mind, knowing he could speak a word and erase the whole nightmare, knowing that Lazarus' story wasn't going to end here, he could shrug off the loss, even perhaps anticipate with some glee the act of restoring him to health and family.
"Lazarus is dead." So Jesus speaks plainly to the disciples. And how did he know this? A message had reached him about Lazarus' illness, but Jesus dilly-dallied, letting two more days go by. And then, he knew. Somehow, he knew. But he returned with the same feelings of dread, of desperate horror and grief that seize us all when we face the great, gaping abyss of death. We see Jesus seized with anguish as he enters into the sisters' weeping and follows them to the tomb.
And here we enter the scene so powerfully painted in the 1870s by Carl Bloch, a Danish artist. Everyone in the painting is fixated on that rift of darkness where only memories have any meaning. Martha crouches at Jesus' knees; Mary peers from behind him. Strong men pull off the door; a pious elder stands a bit back, leaning on his left foot as though prepared for a quick retreat; a small child, terrified, hides behind him.
Jesus speaks, and stretches out his hand to the corpse within. Light shines out from Jesus, fading into all the edges of the painting. The red of his robe foretells of his blood, so soon to be shed after this event; Lazarus' death is the beginning of Jesus' own journey to the tomb for, according to John's gospel, the living-dead-living Lazarus was the last straw for his enemies. "If we let him go on like this, everyone will believe in him…" (Indeed; would that they did.) The white of Jesus' robe foretells his victory over his own tomb and over all tombs.
Bloch paints the scene in twilight; the darkening blue of the sky and the shadowed hills in the background leave the viewer with the feeling that it has been a long day, full of the exhausted sobbing that comes with great grief, when hope has dwindled to a barely remembered glimmer, a crushed wish. We know that feeling, even when it hasn't involved physical death—our deepest longings abandoned, a dreary future, compounded anxieties, dreams dead, hard realities accepted with a battered heart.
But here, in this scene, we're frozen in the moment Jesus speaks: "Lazarus, come out!" We can barely see the dead man, just a dark hint of his shadowed face. It's as though Bloch is forcing us to wait, breathless, on the man's response. Will he? Won't he?
We are Mary and Martha in their stupefied loss, certainly. We are the pious elder, doubtful and jaded in our disbelief. We are the frightened child, hiding behind our religious leaders. We are the laborers, just doing as we're told. But mostly, of course, we are Lazarus, truly dead, without a flicker of life. And then comes the voice of Jesus. His word both invites and commands. Without it, we remain behind the stone, cold and dark. Until Jesus calls us by name, we are indeed dead in sin, buried in the darkness of this world, wrapped tightly with the shrouds of this world's corruption and sin's deceitfulness. And we stupidly think the tomb is life.
"Come out!" Jesus is standing there, hand outstretched. It is your name he calls. The light is blinding—our drowsy eyes are used to the dark; the fresh air hits our faces—we've long breathed the staleness of our unrepentant ways; that Voice, saying our name, echoes in our waking dreams—in the warmth of the sun, in the song of praise, in the flicker of prayer in our hearts, in the kind word, in every good meal, in acts of gentleness, in twinges of holy guilt, in the unexpected grace, in the pastor's Amen.
Come, come into the day; come out of the cold, dank, dark nothingness into real life and light. Breathe. Be free. Awake, oh sleeper, and rise from the dead, and Christ will shine on you. Will you? Won't you?
Image public domain


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The global disposable gloves market is growing significantly due to increasing awareness about hand hygiene and patient safety among healthcare providers and patients, and high incidences of communicable diseases. Several government and non-governmental organizations are actively promoting and funding campaigns aimed at encouraging the use of disposable gloves in medical practices; hence, propelling the growth of global disposable gloves market. High replacement rate of disposable gloves is creating ample opportunities for the global disposable gloves market to grow at a significant rate in the forecasted period. Disposable gloves are used to prevent contaminations and have applications in medical examination, surgery, food processing, and clean room practices.
The trend noticed in the global disposable gloves industry is increasing usage and development of powdered disposable gloves. High incidence of infectious diseases is a major concern across the globe. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), globally nine million people were infected with tuberculosis (TB) and 1.5 million died due to the disease in 2013. The organization also reported that in 2013, 145,700 people died due to measles (a viral infection). Disposable gloves protect caregivers and patients from serious infections. Various international healthcare organizations and agencies, such as WHO and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have, been actively involved in promoting and monitoring patient safety programs aimed at providing guidelines for hand hygiene. This in turn fuels the growth of global disposable gloves market.
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Disposable gloves market can be categorized on the basis of products and applications. Based on products, the disposable gloves market can be categorized as natural rubber or latex gloves, neoprene gloves, vinyl gloves, nitrile gloves, and others. On the basis of applications, disposable gloves market can be segmented as medical and non-medical applications. The medical applications segment includes examination, surgery, and others. The non-medical applications segment includes food sector, cleanroom sector, and others.
Some of the factors driving the growth of the global disposable gloves market are increasing awareness about hand hygiene and patient safety among healthcare providers and patients, increasing incidences of infectious diseases, high healthcare expenditure, and increasing patient compliance for surgical treatment. However, low healthcare access in the remote areas of developing countries is the factor restraining the growth of the global disposable gloves market to some extent.
Geographically, North America will be leading the global disposable gloves market in the coming years due to high awareness regarding hand hygiene among patient and healthcare providers, high healthcare expenditure, high prevalence of infectious diseases, and high patient compliance for surgical treatment. In addition, the CDC's strong recommendation for the usage of disposable gloves in medical procedures will further fuel the growth of disposable gloves market in North America. Asia-Pacific is the fastest growing region in the global disposable gloves market and the major reasons driving the growth are improving healthcare infrastructure, high prevalence of communicable-diseases, and increasing healthcare expenditure. Moreover, the disposable gloves market is growing rapidly due the increased government funding and increasing awareness about hand hygiene and patient safety among patients and care givers in emerging economies, such as India and China.
Some of the major players operating in the global disposable gloves market are Ansell Healthcare, Adventa Berhad, Cardinal Health Inc., Dynarex Corporation, Kossan Rubber Industries Bhd., Kimberley-Clark Corporation, Medisafe Technologies, Medline Industries Inc., Paul Hartmann AG, Top Glove Corporation Berhad, and Supermax Corporation Berhad.
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Black Label Society has debuted a brand new track titled "All That Once Shined" from their brand new LP, Grimmest Hits, due out next year.
The single is the second song the band has made available to the public. Just last month the band released a "Room Of Nightmares" music video, seen below. Both "All That Once Shined" and "Room of Nightmares" are available as iTunes instant gratification tracks, meaning fans who pre-order the album on iTunes now will receive both songs as an instant download. The cover art and track listing can be seen below.
Black Label Society has also announced a hefty batch of North American tour dates spanning coast to coast in support of the all-new LP. Support will come from legends Corrosion of Conformity on all dates. Select tour dates will see support fromEYEHATEGOD and Red Fang. A full list of tour dates can be seen below.
Black Label Society will release their tenth full length titled Grimmest Hits on January 19, 2018, via Entertainment One. The new effort will be the highly anticipated follow up to Billboard Top 5 charting titles Catacombs of the Black Vatican (2014) and Order of the Black (2010). In-between then and now, Zakk Wylde released Book of Shadows II, the long awaited follow up from his 1996 solo debut of the same name, which debuted at #18 on the Billboard Top 200 Chart.
Wylde, now reunited with Ozzy Osbourne after an eight-year break, has played a handful of dates with whom he refers to as "the boss," with no signs of slowing down. The reunion kicked off over the summer with a highlighted performance at CHICAGO OPEN AIR with high profile festivals like LOUDER THAN LIFE and OZZFEST MEETS KNOTFEST on deck to close out the year.
One part invading horde and all parts traveling carnival party, Black Label Society traverses the world powered by caffeine and cacophony. BLS engages and inspires audiences everywhere they go, on every radio dial they burn, inviting all comers to join in and participate in their brotherhood and sisterhood of hard rock and vigor.
Now ten studio albums deep, with solo records, Ozzy shows, and Zakk Sabbath tours all kicking ass simultaneously, Black Label Society rides ever forward, fist held high.
|Track List
1. Trampled Down Below


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Tad and Dianne Taube Senior Fellow
Peter Berkowitz is the Tad and Dianne Taube Senior Fellow at the Hoover Institution, Stanford University. Since 2019, he has been serving on the State Department's Policy Planning Staff in the office of the secretary. He is a 2017 winner of the ...
Mitt Romney's Big-Government Health Care Plan
Mitt Romney appears to have changed his mind once again about the statewide health care program he enacted as governor of Massachusetts...


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Reminiscent of the beloved novels by Mary Kubica and Jodi Picoult comes a chilling portrayal of a son's addiction and its harrowing effects on both him and his mother from New York Times bestselling author Courtney Cole. SAVING BECK releases July 17, 2018. Check out the teaser below, and pre-order your copy of SAVING BECK today!
There comes a time when offering your life for your child's doesn't work, when you realize that it'll never be enough.
The cold needle in his warm vein was a welcome comfort to my son at first. But then it became the monster that kept us apart.
Heroin lied, and my son believed. It took him to a world where the last year didn't happen, to a place where his father was still alive. What Beck didn't understand was that it couldn't bring his father back from the dead. It couldn't take away his pain, not permanently.
You think it can't happen to you, that your kids, your family, will never be in this situation.
I thought that too. But you're wrong.
Step into our world, and see for yourself.
Watch my golden boy become a slave to this raging epidemic. Watch me try and save him.
Drug addiction comes with a price.
Trust me, you're not equipped to pay it.
Don't miss this heart wrenching, evocative, yet hopeful novel—it will leave you forever changed.
Amazon | B&N | iBooks | Kobo | Audible
Courtney Cole is a New York Times and USA Today bestselling novelist who would eat mythology for breakfast if she could.
She has a degree in Business, but has since discovered that corporate America is not nearly as fun to live in as fictional worlds.
Courtney was born and raised in rural Kansas, but has since migrated south. She now lives in Florida and writes beneath palm trees.
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Embarkation was laboured and disorganized - we queued for ages at check- in - we were advised that there were too many people on the gangway - when we got to the gangway we were penned in a glass overbridge for at least twenty minutes in the heat of the midday sun. Luggage also took a very long time to be delivered to our stateroom - in fact we had to attend dinner in the clothes we traveled in. Not a great start.
Ports of Call - with the exception of Mykonos and Split were very good.
The mercenary approach Celebrity take with their customers all but spoils the cruise experience. As others have said Celebrity are in your face to buy tours, treatments etc. they also are not above misleading people into purchasing stuff on the basis of savings which don't materialize. A couple of examples of which was an offer of a reduction of $30 on two spa treatments bought on embarkation day, what they failed to tell you was that one of the treatments had to be taken on embarkation day. It is worth "standing your ground" and demanding a reduction of $30 (plus the 15% gratuity) - I did and accused them of misselling - they then changed their attitude and credited my account.
A sale offering a huge reduction on digital cameras on the last day at sea in fact included no reduction in prices at all! The constant pushing of preferred products by shopping advisers on shore excursions was rather annoying. All of the "preferred products" were at exorbitant prices, something that was not advised at the "showcase excursion" meetings
Breakfast and lunch in the Waterfall Cafe were a bit of a challenge - long queues for food followed by a game of find a coffee machine or hot a water urn that worked, then, find a cup to put it in. Breakfast and lunch in the MDR was disappointing, we tried it twice in an effort to avoid the melee of the Waterfall and were disappointed twice. Service was painfully slow. Towards the end of the trip, we found that hand sanitation dispensers were empty we shared a table with six American/Canadian guests and the consensus of opinion was that as the staff had all received their further gratuities from the guests they didn't have to make an effort - the last day MDR breakfast was a prime example - cold food and dreadful service.
The saving grace of this cruise was the quality of the food in the MDR at dinner (early sitting) - the waiter, assistant waiter and wine waiter made this an enjoyable experience each evening. Contrary to some other comments we found the quality and choice of food to be excellent.
The Cabin design could have been better the closet door collided with the bathroom door if both in use at the same time. Sliding closet doors might be the answer.


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I am not happy writing this essay. I do not like that the society in which I live excuses immaturity in women. But since it does, maturity becomes a part of appropriate masculinity.
My essays about appropriate masculinity are written primarily for my sons. So I acknowledge that being able to understand and draw up appropriate masculinity can be beneficial to both men and women, but may use male pronouns inclusively when refering to someone trying to be masculine.
Maturity is important for everyone. If you are mature the people around you extend more trust, respect, and desire to spend time with you.
Despite this, women are not required to mature. Immature women are socially acceptable. They may be considered attractive. They are often portrayed as ready for marriage.
Not only does society excuse immaturty in women, but it also gives women a lower standard than men for being called mature. Women are completely excused from some types of maturity. For many other types, women are given a token expectation of maturity but are allowed to act immature if they apologize afterwards. (A man who tried to apologize would not be pardoned.)
I cannot explain this, but do know why it happens. (That will be described in future essays.)
I have never found one woman who altered her life by one iota for me or my opinions.
- Florence Nightengale
A man is unattractive when he is passive, reactive, or even lacking a firm opinion. A woman or child is allowed to wait for guidance.
Example: "You need to pick which leftovers we are eating for dinner tonight. I have no preference. That is your job. You are not helping!"
A man is unattractive when he expects help, including his good deeds being reciprocated. A woman or child is allowed to expect help even before it is requested.
Example: "I was struggling with putting my luggage in the overhead bin and no one offered to help me! Men are so rude these days."
A man is unattractive when he does not offer help to a woman he does not know. A woman or child is not expected to help strangers, and may even "help" friends by volunteering someone else to do the work.
Example: "At the park today I saw a man sitting by himself on a bench, crying. It was frightening. I stayed far away. Oh, my co-worker is moving to a new apartment next weekend. I told her you have a truck."
A man is unattractive when he relies on other people. A woman or child is allowed to be so reliant on others that she may expect people to offer the right help before she tells them what she wants.
Example: "I hate telling my boyfriend how to make me happy. He should just know!"
A man is unattractive when he needs to be shielded from the consequences of his choices. A woman or child is excused from such responsibility. This is especially true if the irresonsible choice in any way is unpleasant to any child.
Example: "I should have know he would not stick around after I got pregnant. Thank goodness for social services."
A man is unattractive when he makes a decision without a logical reason. A woman or child is allowed to act irrationally when their emotions are intense.
Example: "Sorry I stormed out of the house during our argument. You made me so angry!"
A man is unattractive when he ignores valid criticism by redirecting the conversation with a criticism of someone else. A woman or child is excused from responding to criticism with counter-criticism.
Example: "How dare you criticise people who skateboard while drunk! Sober skateboarers also get hurt. Skateboards should be safer."
A man is unattractive when he pushes boundaries just to test the boundaries. A woman or child is excused for "testing relationships".
Example: "I don't want to marry a pushover. I want to make sure he is strong, confident, and able to protect me. That's why I play hard-to-get, nag him, and push him to buy me expensive things."
A man is unattractive when he is not entertaining the women around him. A woman or child is allowed to be boring.
Example: "I hate when my husband just relaxes on the couch. I want to poke him or say something. When he is quiet I want him to do something!"
A man is unattractive when he admires a woman but does not approach her and politely inteact. A woman or child is not required to risk discomfort and rejection by interacting with everyone whose appearance she appreciates from a distance.
Example: "That man just smiled at me from across the room. He is just standing there. It's creepy. I feel so objectified."
A man is unattractive when he does not politely listen to a woman talk about her obscure interests. A woman or child is allowed treat boring conversation topics as boring.
Example: "The date was going well. But then he did not want to talk about my fan fiction. He rolled his eyes! Can you imagine?"
A man is unattractive when he has many sexual partners during his college years: even official college policy assumes he is taking advantage of his willing sexual partners. A woman is excused for identical behavior. Only women Alcohol are made less responsible for their actions by alcohol.
Example: "Don't judge me. I need to find myself and discover what pleases me. Men who are players are the problem with campus relationships."
Date the bad boys, date the crazy boys, but do not marry them. Marry the boys who are going to change half of the diapers.
- Sheryl Sandberg
A man is unattractive when he has done wrong and does not offer a sincere and unqualified apology that admits his guilt (and this apology does not reduce the consequences). A woman or child may offer insincere apologies, and may expect explaining instead of apologizing to minimize consequences.
Example: "Now, do not get mad. I did not mean to do that. It was an accident. Why are you being so mean?"
A man is unattractive when he uses shame to influence someone. A woman or child is allowed to shame other people, especially if she can maintain plausable deniability.
Example: "Why are you upset that I told my friends you should not have volunteered to do that? Oh, I did not mean it that way."
A man is unattractive when he avoids judgment by pretending he is not responsible for his actions. A woman or child may claim to be unaccountable because she was caught up in the moment.
Example: "I'm not that kind of girl. It just happened."
A man is unattractive when he lies, unless the untruth is a tiny "white lie" with no practical effect that protects someone else's feelings. A woman or child may lie any time it protects her own feelings (including avoiding criticism), even if the lie leads someone else down the wrong path.
Example: "It is nothing about you. I just do not feel like dating anyone right now."
A man (or boy) is worse than unattractive when he uses a lie to avoid responsibility, or when he asks someone else to be responsible for his actions. A woman (or girl) may falsely claim to not want to do something while using body language to tell a more dominant woman or man that she wants them to push through her token resistance and by doing so accept all the responsibility (and potential blame) for whatever happens.
Example: "I would never tell my boss I am sick just to spend some time with you. (Puppy dog eyes.)"
A man (or boy) is unattractive when he does not play by the rules, and winning a game by disobeying the rules invalidates the win. A woman (or girl) is encouraged to break the rules until she has at least an even chance of winning.
Example: "We played boys versus girls dogeball at recess today. The boys won again so next time the girls get to start with even more points."
I inherited my ability from both my parents; my mother's ability for spending money, and my father's ability for not making it.
- Anonymous
A man is unattractive when he refers to his wife's possessions as joint property. A woman or child is excused for believing almost everything owned by the family is "ours", except for those personal items that are "mine".
Example: "He earns more than me. So my salary is for stuff I want to buy. House payments, car payments, and utilities all come from his salary since that's our family money."
A young man is unattractive when he has no career plans. A woman or child is allowed to have no career plans.
Example: "I am not sure what I want to do for a living. In college I'll explore options and find my passion. I can always marry someone who is wealthy."
A man is unattractive when he has not saved enough money to deal with unforeseen emergencies. A woman or child is excused for not having significant savings.
Example: "I do not understand how a guy could say he would not marry a girl with college debt."
A man is unattractive when he is not wealthy enough to spend money on other people. A woman or child is allowed to receive instead of spend.
Example: "Even though I am a very modern woman I still appreciate when the guy pays when we're on a date."
A man is unattractive when he purchases something just because he wants it. A woman or child is excused for her impulse buys when shopping.
Example: "Isn't this cute? And it was on sale!"
A man is unattractive when he purchases something but very seldom uses it. A woman or child is excused for owning seldom-used purchases. For the woman this is especially true if the item is clothing or jewelry.
Example: "I should be able to get this necklace. You know I protested when you bought new skis that you will only use a few times each year."
A man is unattractive and irresponsible when he works to support a family but refuses to purchase life insurance. A woman or child is not required to have life insurance.
Example: "Only 70% of single moms have life insurance? Well, no duh. It is hard enough to make ends meet without that expense."
To change the mind is a lady's privilege.
- Stanley Weyman
A man is unattractive when he becomes grumpy because he is hungry or tired. A woman or child may use hunger or weariness as an excuse for grumpy behavior.
Example: "Sorry I did not reply when I said I would. I was too worn out at the end of a hard day."
A man is unattractive when his desires fluctuate. A woman or child may change her desires as often as it feels appropriate.
Example: "When I said that Thai food 'does not interest me', you were supposed to know that I was only talking about that night."
A man is unattractive whe he expects a woman to be his strength and shelter during hardships. (She may indeed be that strength and shelter, but it is always her choice to act strong and selfless.) A woman or child may expect such support from the men they are closest to.
Example: "I had a really hard day. After dinner I will need you to be with the kids because some time to myself to unwind and destress."
A man is unattractive when he agrees to do too many things and fails at some. A woman or child is excused from this failure to be resonsibile.
Example: "Sorry I did not get that done. I had too much on my plate. I only offered because I was trying to be helpful."
A man is unattractive when he becomes emotional because of a brief inconvenience. A woman or child is excused from this short-sighted self-centeredness, and usually does not notice how ugly it is when she vents frustration about a problem that lasts only a few minutes.
Example: "Arg! I hate when the phone rings and it is a solicitor. What a bother!"
A man is unattractive when he displays an emotionally intense response to what a woman says. A woman or child may react emotionally to what men say.
Example: "How dare you raise your voice at me! I am just trying to explain something. You are frightening me."
A man is unattractive when he makes a decision or changes his mind without sharing a logical reason. A woman or child is allowed to be impulsive, intuitive, and even flaky.
Example: "Sorry to cancel our plans. I have decided to stay home tonight instead. I just felt like it."
The great question that has never been answered...is "What does a woman want?"
- Sigmund Freud
A man is unattractive when he claims he wants something to make him happy or make his life easier, but after acquiring it does not see benefit. A woman or child is excused from this lack of self-awareness.
Example: "I might wear that dress again. I won't return it. I still think it is cute. But it does not make me feel as pretty as I hoped it would."
A man is unattractive when his hobbies, interests and opinions do not continue to develop and deepen. A woman or child may keep the same hobbies, interests, and opinions for as long as she likes.
Example: "What non-fiction books am I in the middle of? Well, I read the news online, and some fashion blogs."
A man is unattractive when he complains that his choices close the doors to other options. A woman or child is excused from ignorantly believing all doors will always remain open for her.
Example: "Of course I want a career and kids some day. What am I doing while at college to become a better mother or wife? What a silly quesion! I'll worry about that later."
A man is unattractive when he becomes moody or frustrated because he is forced to alter or abandon one of his plans. A woman or child is excused from this inflexibility.
Example: "But I was going to make macaroni and cheese tonght. I cannot believe you forgot to buy more at the store. Dinner is ruined!"
A man is unattractive when he does not stay in shape and no longer has the energy to properly lead his family. A woman is allowed to love her body whether or not her choices decease her fitness and energy, and she should not be shamed for gaining significant weight even if her weight gain has no medical excuse.
Example: "I need you to take more initiative around the house after dinner. I am too tired at the end of the day. No, I am not up for going for a walk. Take one of the kids."
A man is unattractive when he treats a woman as a child. A woman is expected to treat men (even her husband) like children: viewing them as irresponsible and unable to look out for themselves, and appropriate targets for behavior management with positive and negative reinforcement.
Example: "How dare he make me take the bus home, just because I was an hour late to meet him! It is not a husband's place to discipline the wife. Tonight he sleeps on the couch without even a good night kiss!"
A man is unattractive when he hold grudges or shows resentment. A woman or child may hold a grudge when she feels her resentment helps a man become a better man.
Example: "A week ago I caught you looking twice at another woman while at the store, and now you are doing it again!"
A man is unattractive when he focuses on success or failure in social situatins instead of displaying confidence. A woman or child is expected to cautiously avoid disappointments and failures.
Example: "I can't just go up to him and say hi! What if does not want to talk to me?"
When I was a child, I spoke as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child. But when I became a man I put away childish things.
- First Corinthians 13:11
My sons, you have many advantages compared to your peers. Most of these are because of the choices and priorities made by your mother and I.
(Tangentially, be wary of people who insist that all advantages are "privilege". Privileges exists. But so do accomplishments and consequences, paid for with years of effort and sacrifices.)
We value education and arrange our home and routines to stimulate your intellectual growth, so you are knowledgeable and clever. You do not flounder when evaluating options or making decisions.
We value culture and spending time with healthy and levelheaded people, so you are sensible and discriminating. You are not shallow or attracted to unhealthy people.
We value saving money and wisely investing it and using it to help others, so you have your own savings and know how to manage that money. You are not confined to those careers that earn the most, but may dedicate your time to your God-given vocations.
We provide you with trust and security while letting you explore and test your own boundaries, so you have developed faith, fortitude, and independence. You do not measure your worth by what other people think of you, or by how much attention or commitment they give you.
We celebrate family accomplishments, so you are overflowing with deep reasons for self-worth. You do not suffer from the self-esteem issues of a life in which challenges were watered down or successes were taken for granted.
We have done our best to help you become whole and self-sufficient. You do not cause problems because you feel needy, incomplete, or obliged to test people.
I raise you with a parenting style that was calm and consistent, so you are unusually patient and self-controlled. You are not impulsive.
I raise you while demonstrating a life that is playful, imaginatve, and constructive, so you are happy and know the contment of building. You are not slaves to trends or fashions, nor stuck living as unsatisfied consumers.
I deal with your needs and requests positively and rationally, so you are sensible and optimistic. You are not moody or petulant, reacting to needs or wants too emotionally.
I handle crises calmly and with integrity, so you also trust difficulties as opportuities for growth and self-analysis. You are not insecure, and do not become a different peson when under stress.
I have taken care of my body to keep it strong and handsome as I age, so you can expect to be able to make choices that let you age gracefully. You are not afraid of or depressed by aging.
I try to be make your days brighter with silliness and wit, so you are fun and have a sense of humor. And you know how to be masculine by farting to release stress, instead of crying to release stress.
My sons, you are more mature than average because of these dozen reasons, as well as those many ways described above that growing up male demands above average maturity.
Neither your mother nor I use our family name in our parenting style. Some parents teach "We do this-and-that because we are Smiths!" or admonish "A Jones should not do that!" Although that is not our style, we do hope that you share our priorities and appreciate our choices, and thus gain your own respect for our family name. We are above average, a fact we need not be ashamed to recognize because it comes from the ways our family has valued responsibility and virtue for generations.
What is the best English word for something you did not agree to but it happened anyway? The right answer is "consequence". Some people will use "accident" instead. It is not that far afield. But it completely ignores how part of being mature and responsible is learning how to avoid accidents.
- Dad
There are situations in which a person's maturity and responsible decision-making can be suppressed by a sufficiently charismatic male.
These days admitting this truth is unfashionable. But it used to be advice shared by each generation to its children and grandchildren.
Boys and young men will act immature and irresponsible when a sufficiently charismatic male encourages to do something physical and daring. Usually this happens outdoors.
The affected boy or young man will not actually say "yes" to the irresponsible behavior. But he will be unable to say "no".
How much charisma is required to suppress maturity and responsible decision-making? It varies by person. Some boys and young men are quite succeptible to this dynamic. Others have such a high threshold that they might never experience it in their entire lives. Alcohol will lower a person's threshold.
Parents know about this dynamic. They dread the conversations that happen afterwards.
Charisma Suppressing Maturity—For Men
Parent: "Why did you smear honey on yourself and run naked around the beehive?"
Boy or young man: "I don't know. At the time it did not seem so stupid."
Parent: "How could you do something so reckless? That is not like you!"
Boy or young man: "I'm not like this. It just happened."
Parent: "Why didn't you just leave?"
Boy or young man: "Adam seemed so cool and calm. At the time his ideas seemed thrilling and fun. A part of me knew I should leave. But I got caught up in the moment. I just couldn't leave."
My sons, your mother will never understand these episodes. She, during her days as a girl or young woman, never became lost in the charm of a charismatic leader and led to do stupid and dangerous outdoor physical things that were not like her normal, mature self. But I can relate. There are stories I could share about climbing a tree to high, scrambling down a dangerous river, or riding a bicycle off too high a wall.
Most young men have this kind of story. Hopefully we do not get too hurt.
Be aware of this dynamic. Avoid males that are so charismatic that they suppress your maturity, except for the rare few for whom you are really sure that they always handle their influence responsibly.
Girls and young women will act immature and irresponsible when a sufficiently charismatic male encourages to do something physical and sexual.
The affected girl or young woman will not actually say "yes" to the irresponsible behavior. But she will be unable to say "no", and might even obey the requests of the charismatic male. (In one conversation I had, the women with whom I was discussed this dyanmic called it "being paralyzed with pleasure".)
How much charisma is required to suppress maturity and responsible decision-making? It varies by person. Some girls and young women are quite succeptible to this dynamic. Others have such a high threshold that they might never experience it in their entire lives. Alcohol will lower a person's threshold.
Parents know about this dynamic. They dread the conversations that happen afterwards.
Charisma Suppressing Maturity—For Women
Parent: "Why did you go home with him after the party?"
Girl or young woman: "I don't know. At the time it did not seem so stupid."
Parent: "How could you do something so reckless? That is not like you!"
Girl or young woman: "I'm not like this. It just happened."
Parent: "Why didn't you just leave?"
Girl or young woman: "Adam seemed so cool and calm. At the time his ideas seemed thrilling and fun. A part of me knew I should leave. But I got caught up in the moment. I just couldn't leave."
Most young women have this kind of story. Hopefully they did not get too hurt.
My sons, you may grow up to be one of those very charismatic males. If not, in social gatherings with alcohol you will often be more charismatic than the threshold for some of the young men and women attending. Be aware of your potential to fascinate and enthrall.
Do not lead people to do immature, risky, stupid things that they will later regret.
It wasn't communication in any meaningful sense of the term as I understand it. It was a kind of "emotional badminton." I acted happy, sympathetic, interested and cheerful and then it was her turn to act happy, sympathetic, interested and cheerful and then it was my turn, etc.
- Dave Sim
My sons, beware of people who are emotional creatures. (Most of these will be women.)
An emotional creature will at first appear to be a normal person. She or he may be initially fun to talk to or dance with. But any more mature and meaningful interaction is doomed to fail.
An emotional creature:
It is easy to detect emotional creatures by asking questions that should lead to a discussion involving logical reasoning and abstract ethical principles.
For example, you could ask, "How much of a pension should state employees earn?" A mature and meaningful reply will move the discussion towards some interesting abstractions and logical reasoning. What size pension do most employees earn? What are the merits and problems of various methods used to determine pensions? How is employment by the state different from other employment? Etc.
Perhaps the reply totally dismisses the question ("I do not want to talk about that."). You can ask "Why not?" and receive a reply involving abstractions and logical reasoning. ("I do not know how pensions are determined. How can I talk about this if I do not know the basics?")
However, if the response avoids logical reasoning and abstract ethical principles then you are probably talking to an emotional creature. The reply might only includes an anecdote about an individual and his or her specific pension, or what emotions are provoked by the issue. Beware!
Maybe you should try a different question. As another example, you could ask, "Why is it wrong to make fun of fat people?" Of course it is wrong. A mature and meaningful reply will include abstractions or logical reasoning. Bullying of any kind harms communities. Strangers cannot know who is fat because of the vice of lacking self-control and who is fat because they suffer from a medical problem (or medication) that causes obesity. The inclination to ridicule for a quick laugh (instead of extending grace and valuing the other person's joy) reveals deep moral flaws in the speaker. Etc.
However, if the response focuses on anecdotes and feelings then you are probably talking to an emotional creature. "It is wrong to hurt people's feelings" is an obviously dysfunctional ethical principle that ignores "tough love", sound parenting, and the community's responsibility to establish norms and decency.
My sons, try to avoid emotional creatures. They will wreak havoc as a boss or long-term friend. They are unable to mature due to some tragedy of genetics or upbringing. Their inability to deal with abstractions and logical reasoning will bring them an endless series of problems. Seek your close friends elsewhere.


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Tuesday's Take Your Best Shot: Running Whitetail
Outdoor Hub Staff 10.31.17
Scenario: Whitetail buck running uphill across an open pasture
Rifle: Bergara B-14 bolt-action rifle in 6.5 Creedmoor
Range: 210 yards
Conditions: Sunny; 35 degrees; steady 12-mph wind, right to left
What did you do? It could have been a stray gust of wind, or the glint of your forehead glistening from sweat, but this Montana buck is bolting. Luckily, you already put your rangefinder to use moments before the buck started moving. Your Hornady Precision Hunter ammo should land the bullet at that distance with less than 2 inches of drop. Wind-drift should be minimal, approximately 2.5 inches. Is it time to launch? Check out the possible aiming points A, B or C shown below, then take your best shot.
A. Your grandpa always told you to break a buck down, and with this locomotive picking up speed, a bullet that lands in the joint where the neck and shoulder meet will make grandpa proud. But was he ever challenged by a 200-yarder?
B. If you think your rifle is zippier than Speedy Gonzales, then this is your aiming point. Or is it? Think again and do the math on a moving deer: Your bullet is going to end up too far back for a rump landing.
C. If you've practiced the running shot, then this is your aiming point. Don't just plant the reticle. You need to visualize this buck as a flushing pheasant. Depress the trigger as you swing out in front if you plan to take this shot.
Did you make a decision? I've made mine – running shots at this distance are doable, but extremely difficult. Take a pass unless you've practiced. It's better to return to this pasture in a few days and snipe the buck as he passes on a patternable route.


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Browsing Biochemistry and Molecular Biology - Faculty Research by Subject "amyloid-like aggregate"
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Effect of curcumin on amyloid-like aggregates generated from methionine-oxidized apolipoprotein A-I (2018)Curcumin is a polyphenolic phytonutrient that has antineurodegenerative properties. In this study, we investigated the anti-amyloidogenic properties of curcumin. Following incubation with curcumin, intrinsic tryptophan ...


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2019-2020 Program Deadlines
- Valley Legislative Intern Scholar Program Fall 2018 (San Joaquin Valley – Fresno, Clovis, Merced, Modesto, etc.): Application postmarked, delivered, emailed, or faxed by 5 p.m. PDT on Friday, May 8, 2020
- Valley Legislative Intern Scholar Program Spring 2019 (San Joaquin Valley – Fresno, Clovis, Merced, Modesto, etc.) : Application postmarked, delivered, emailed, or faxed by 5 p.m. PDT on Friday, November 6th, 2020
- Summer 2019 Jim Costa Washington. D.C. and Bob Beverly Sacramento Legislative Intern Scholar Programs: Application postmarked, delivered, emailed, or faxed by 5 p.m. PDT on Friday, November 6th, 2020
Apply Online or download the application HERE
Application Requirements:
- Completed Application: All sections must be completed and signed.
- Resume: Must be current and completed.
- Personal Statement: No longer than ONE page. Write a short biographical sketch. How would the legislative office benefit from having you in the office? What interest, experience, or background do you have in public policy or government affairs (school, work, volunteerism, etc.)?
- College Transcripts: Copies are acceptable. Your name must appear on the document. Official transcripts indicating expected graduation date and degree will be required of all applicants selected for the program.
If applicant is selected for an initial interview, the applicant MUST:
- Enroll into course to receive Academic Credit for internship in order to be considered for placement. All academic requirements need to be done prior to beginning of internship (Academic credit is granted through each academic department and graduate program. Applicants must contact their own school/academic department so advising staff can assist,)
- Enroll into an Independent Study program for at least one (1) unit in order to be considered for placement. All academic requirements need to be done prior to beginning of internship. (Independent Study Policies vary per each academic department and graduate program. Applicants must contact their own school/academic department so advising staff can assist.)
Requirements for Academic Credit at Fresno State (For other schools please check with your academic advisor):
In order to receive academic credit for an internship, a student must satisfy the following minimum requirements:
- Satisfy Time Commitment: Work for a minimum of 50 hours for each (1) unit of academic credit (e.g., 150 hours for 3 units of academic credit)
- Enroll for Credit: Sign up for an independent study through Extended Education
- Sign Letter of Agreement and Code of Conduct
- Participate in Orientation Program: Dates to Be Determined
- Develop Learning Objectives: In the first two weeks of your internship, you should submit your Learning Objectives to the The Maddy Institute (firstname.lastname@example.com).
- Record a Daily Log: A copy, signed by your supervisor, should be submitted at the end of your Internship to The Maddy Institute (email@example.com). It should include a log of hours. [Daily Log Form]
- Submit Final Report: Submit a 4-6 page final written report to The Maddy Institute and the designated governmental liaison by email. Your report should provide a detailed explanation of:
- What work you did, how you did it and who you did it for (e.g., if are doing research, who asked you to do it? What exactly were you researching? How did you go about completing your assignments?)
- Why do you think they are asking you to do this? Why do you think they are pursuing this public policy? Was the result good or bad?
- How did the work you do relate to concepts you learned in the classroom?
- What specific skills did you develop? (include one or more specific examples of what skills you developed)
- What new knowledge did you gain? (include one or more specific examples of what was learned)
- What personal development took place?
- How was your career awareness expanded? Guidelines for the format of the Final Report are set forth in the Final Report Guidelines (coming soon).
- Submit Supervisor's Evaluation Form: The designated governmental liaison must submit a final performance appraisal of your work [Government Office Evaluation (coming soon)]
- Submit Student Evaluation Form (coming soon).
- Must have a 3.0 overall GPA or higher;
- Must be at least a Junior in standing (60 units completed) OR
- Must be a Graduate student in standing during the semester of the internship.
Scholarship Amounts
- Costa Scholarship Interns in Washington, D.C. will receive a $6,000 scholarship
- Beverly Scholarship Interns in Sacramento will receive a $4,500 scholarship
- Maddy Scholarship Interns will receive a $1,500 scholarship
University Policies
Please familiarize yourself with university policies regarding off site employment and learning experiences. California State University, Fresno is committed to providing a learning environment free of harassment, discrimination, and sexual harassment extending to all remote learning sites:


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by Jon Draper -
Thursday, July 17, 2014
iON Camera has unveiled its new CamoCAM Action Camera, the first POV camera designed with the hunter in mind. Wrapped completely in RealTree Xtra camo, the 14 megapixel CamoCAM can record up to 2.5 hours of footage on a single battery charge. Its 180 degree lens captures a wide field of view and HD video of 60 frames per second.
The CamoCAM is compact, light weight, fully-waterproof and comes complete with a weapons mount that allows you to easily attach the camera to your firearm or bow. Silent, one-touch recording feature allows you to activate the camera with minimal movement and without electronic beeps that can spook game.
When paired with available accessories, such as the Wi-Fi PODZ and iON app, users can control camera functions from their smart phone or tablet and instantly upload content to social media.
The iON CamoCAM will be available sometime this fall in Walmart stores and walmart.com with a retail price of $299.99.
For more information go to ioncamera.com
E-mail your comments/questions about this site to: firstname.lastname@example.com
For questions/comments about American Hunter magazine, please e-mail:email@example.com
You can contact the NRA via phone at: NRA Member Programs1-800-672-3888
To advertise on American Hunter, visit nramediakit.com for more information
Get the American Hunter Insider newsletter for at-a-glance access to industry news, gear, gun reviews, videos and more—delivered directly to your Inbox.
Privacy Policy • Contact Us • Warnings • FAQs • © 2020 National Rifle Association of America


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Next Episode of Rio Squad is
In a collaboration with ESPNW, Rio Squad (working title) highlights four uniquely powerful female athletes who have dedicated their lives to being the best at their sport. It follows these women as they pursue their dreams, prepare for the Summer Games, and demonstrate that a female hero doesn't have to take the shape of a princess.
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DEEPWATER (always written in full caps) is an urban legend among hellcrashers. DEEPWATER (sometimes referred to as "The DEEPWATER Insertion", "DEEPWATER TWO", or "The DEEPWATER Incident") is to Hellcrashers what Roswell and the Philadelphia Experiment are to UFO conspiracy buffs. About a third of Hellcrashers dismiss all talk of DEEPWATER as complete bullshit, another third believe the story wholeheartedly, and the rest think that something just might have gone down on the abandoned pig farm in the Utah desert code-named DEEPWATER TWO on Friday, September 7th, 1979, but they have doubts about the scale of the incident, and it's true intentions.
Ghost Whisper
The story is that at some point in the early 1970's, the United States military learned about hellcrashing. Not from their fellow Americans, nor from Nazi or Soviet documents, but rather through interrogations of captured Viet Cong from superstitious rural areas of Vietnam. When several different interrogators began noticing the same weird stories popping up again and again, from different enemies with no previous contact, they slowly figured out that something was up. At this stage, they weren't buying the crazy stories of gates to Hell and horrifying spirits and monsters, but they thought they might be hearing coded descriptions of some kind of very deep tunnel complex, or perhaps the after effects of some powerful psychoactive drug or a radical new psychological warfare technique that inspired terror. The DIA (Defense Intelligence Agency) code named this mysterious X-factor GHOST WHISPER, and a team of six elite Army Ranger "Tunnel Rats" was quickly assembled, outfitted with gas masks (their superiors were operating under the assumption that the VC prisoners had wandered into a deep tunnel filled with an unknown hallucinogenic gas), and sent into a location that the captured VC had regarded with a special horror: The winding tunnels under an abandoned French rubber processing plant near the Cambodian border, a location DIA overseers had dubbed BAD YELLOW.
Bad Yellow
The first six men sent into BAD YELLOW were never seen again. Another attempt was made three weeks later, this time with military convicts. One man returned, covered in radiation burns and clutching and in his hand a three-inch long statuette of a crucified dog, seemingly carved from bone, an artifact the DIA would code-named YELLOW TOY ONE. The lone survivor succumbed to third-degree burns within a few hours. Likewise, YELLOW TOY ONE crumbled to ash approximately six days later, but not before baffling military scientists back in America with it's strange properties: Despite it's small size, YELLOW TOY ONE weighted 14 pounds and felt as dense to the touch as lead, if not denser. Despite it's weight, it floated in water. It was strongly radioactive, and several researchers refused to handle it, and claimed they found it "sickening" or "deeply repulsive" for reasons they could not quite explain. The Vietnam War would end before another expedition could be mounted into BAD YELLOW, and the military leveled the entire site with a massive air strike before abandoning it. BAD YELLOW was gone, but enough photographs, Geiger counter readings, soil samples, and weird electromagnetic reading remained to convince the brass that they has stumbled on to something. The ruins of an unknown ancient civilization? An extra-dimensional back-door that could drop troops or bombs straight into the heart of the Soviet Union? One thing was for certain: That Bad Yellow was just the beginning.
What We Know
Crasher Jargon
Game Terms
The "H" Word
Rust and Despair


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Shenandoah Yoga's next Free Community Yoga Class will happen on Saturday, December 7 from 10:00 am to 11:15 am. This free class is being held in celebration of the upcoming Winter Solstice. All levels are welcome to this multi-level class, including new, current and former students. The more the merrier!
We strongly encourage optional donations of non-perishable food or cash, which will go 100% to the local food bank a few blocks from the studio.
Sign up in advance to save your spot for Free Community Yoga.


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Platinum Colorado
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MjLink Professional Member:
Full Description
Platinum Colorado is a Professional Employment Organization (PEO) offering more than a century of combined expertise in Payroll Administration and Human Resource Administration
- It is our mission to continuously provide high quality service to our clients.
- Our service model creates efficiencies that reduce cost.
- We have a highly experienced staff with more than 75 years of combined industry experience.
- Our service offerings are adaptable to clients' individual business needs.
- We are extremely adept at developing and implementing practical, long-term human resource and benefits strategies.
- We deliver cutting-edge technology that is compatible with the changing dynamics in the industry.
- We offer a tailored approach to time management and cost-containment, allowing you to focus on your core competencies.


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Oakland, Berkeley, And East Bay News, Events, Restaurants, Music, & Arts
It's unseemly to gloat when the chickens start coming home to roost. But what warm-blooded liberal can resist a snicker at the news that Junior has finally accepted responsibility for his false statements about Iraq trying to buy nuclear material from Niger? The question of how the war on Iraq could have been based on faulty intel is finally being taken seriously, and the parties responsible are being called to task. But don't let it be said that the Bush administration doesn't watch out for its own. Right now it is trying not to leave Condoleezza Rice out for the vultures, but the San Francisco Mime Troupe has no such compunctions. In its usual prescient fashion -- the new show, Veronique of the Mounties, opened July 4, three weeks before Junior defended Rice as an "honest, fabulous person" -- the troupe is switching focus from Junior and Dick to our national security adviser.
Which means, happily, that we get to see a lot of Velina Brown in the dual roles of Condoleezza Rice and Veronique of the Mounties, Canada's Only Hope. Apparently, for all these years, Canada has been protected from US aggression by its ownership of a petrified maple leaf that sends soothing mental beams southward. Call it a Weapon of Mass Delusion. This magical artifact has kept us thinking Canada is too cold and remote to worry about, leaving the Canadian government free to do things such as providing affordable health care to their citizens and other distinctly un-American activities. When Rice visits Canada on state business, she steals the leaf, and suddenly it's possible to convince the American public that Canada is a real threat to our way of life. Canada -- "the biggest threat since Satan" -- has just been waiting for the right moment to "rain icy death down on innocent America." Of course, like Iraq, it's not the Canadians we need to worry about, but rather "an oppressive regime so oppressive," -- according to embedded bimbo BSNBC reporter Buffy Stern in her ultrashort snow camo skirt -- that "this man has to live in a house made out of ice!"
"That's an igloo, eh," responds the hapless native.
Is Canada really such a threat? Has it secretly been trying to buy nuclear material from Madagascar and stocking up on deadly acne spores? Or is this perhaps part of Dick Cheney's master plan of restoring empire to the world in the form of US hegemony, as depicted in the last two Mime Troupe shows? You got it. Cheney is starting to show the strain, and he's ready to make bold moves. "That man almost lost a fixed election," he says in disgust of the president as he explains why it's imperative he and Rice wrest power from the throne. Attacking Canada is a move calculated to solidify Cheney's power base and create his dreamed-of Pax Americus Corporandus: He hopes to enlist Rice's support on two fronts, one of them horizontal. Together they sing "Superior People" -- "What's good for the best is good for the least/That's how wealth is increased/That's why even the most destitute son of a bitch/Doesn't want to tax the rich!" -- and dream of one world united under the dollar.
Yet Condi is torn. On the one hand, she exclaims that "George and Laura are like the white brother and sister I never had!" But the temptation of power is strong, and she really likes the sound of Cheney/Rice 2008. Either way, there's something standing in the way of her ambition, a family secret that could spoil her chances at sharing a ticket with the lecherous Cheney, and that secret relates to the valiant Mountie making her painstaking way to the Undisclosed Location where Cheney has hidden the magic maple leaf.
Veronique du Bois hates America and hates Americans, period. "If there's a God," she cries at one point, certain she's about to die, "if there's a heaven, at least I won't see any Americans there." At first she resists her assignment from the diminutive Canadian prime minister (Keiko Shimosato) to disguise herself as an American and retrieve the leaf, but there's no other way. She'll have to brave our "Krispy Kremes and crack, video games and porn" to protect her beloved country from becoming another Afghanistan, another Iraq.
Spy games, car chases, and goofy sound effects ensue in the Mime Troupe's usual preaching-to-the-choir style. This one is better than last year's but maybe not as good as the one before; so much of the territory is the same that it almost doesn't feel like a new show so much as the next chapter of last year's. Essentially Veronique of the Mounties is part three in what looks like it's going to be known as an all-satire tetralogy, perhaps the Bushiad.
Unlike the last two Mime Troupe shows, which drew heavily from their source material (the Dracula mythos, the noble but naive Mr. Smith), Veronique of the Mounties is more of a "from scratch" show. Unlike her famous cartoon compatriot Dudley Do-Right, Veronique is not a bumbler who can't keep Snidely Whiplash from tying women to the railroad tracks. She's noble, virtuous, and brave. She does have one big problem, however: She keeps blowing her cover. And cover is important, as this show gleefully ransacks every spy movie ever made. There's a papers-please Casablanca moment in Big Ed's Alcohol Hut. And like Rick's Place, Big Ed's is also home to rebels such as Dorothea Whitman, veteran librarian and member of the ultra-secret antigovernment LATEFEE. The villain adheres to Spy Movie Rule Number One, telling the hero, "Since you're going to die anyway, I'll tell you my plan." There's an interrogation scheduled, and an Out Pill, which Veronique readies as she sings the surprisingly lovely "Canada Adieu."
Bekka Fink's Judith is equal parts adorable and terrifying as a gun-crazy little girl. Conrad Cimarra moves like Gumby. Ed Holmes returns as the vice president, and he's heartily sick of it, exhorting the audience after the show to register and vote against the Republicans in 2004 so that he doesn't have to play the VP anymore. "Put me out of a job," he jokes. He also manages to be funny without being condescending as sick vet Harry, who props up the bar at Big Ed's. "I should have stayed in Vietnam after the war," he says. "At least I'd be working for Nike." But this is really Brown's show. Two especially noteworthy moments are hers: one when she manages to snag a ride to the Lambs of Jesus Small Arms Jamboree with a family of rifle-toting Christian fundamentalists by masquerading as Brother Sunshine of the National Association of Homophobic Black Churches -- his wife Sister Lana of Confucians for Christ in tow -- and another when she's switching back and forth between roles near the end.
Technically Veronique has all the usual musical, visual, and physical-comedy cleverness for which the troupe is known, even if the day I went a misplaced costume situation meant the show started an hour late. The colorful snowy-mountain set has more folds, slots, and tabs than a kid's pop-up book and just might make you feel chilly looking at it. The producers have taken last year's skiing effect and blown it up for a hilarious car chase where the "drivers" zigzag across the stage while their "cars" (painted flats) move behind them. The troupe's members have been working together long enough that, while their message may be getting repetitive, their chops are tight, and that shows in everything from the music to the assured way the actors use their small stage. And the language is as funny as ever, at least if you're like-minded and can appreciate the news that if it "smells like old, wet hippies -- it's the smell of Canadian treachery!"
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Week of October 21


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What is the Right Communications Solution for your Business?
As technology advances in leaps and bounds, so does the complexity of our decision making when it comes to choosing the right communications solution for our business. For business owners and business decision makers, it is important how to leverage the right solution for your business.
Communications Systems - A Business Investment
A well-suited communications system can increase overall productivity by more efficiently managing work flow, allowing end users easier access to the customization and management of their phones through a web interface.
A well planned, quality communications system will ensure that communication is routed efficiently and effectively throughout your business through the use of call pick-up groups and auto attendants. This combined with newer features such as find-me-follow me, which allows users to forward calls to their cell phones or other extensions, can insure critical calls are not missed no matter where you are.
Understanding How The System Works
The key to purchasing any communication system is first knowing your business and understanding how voice technologies and other products can be best leveraged to support and enhance that model.
With so many choices and technologies out there it can be a daunting task to choose a system when being sold on rich feature sets and fancy bells and whistles. When the features align with your company's goals, and your company's financial position dictates which purchasing model to utilize, you will know you are making a sound investment in your company for years to come.
Being thouroughly informed can help any business to leverage the most out of their phone system. Certain factors that should be considered when making this decision should include:
- Up-front cost
- Total cost of ownership
- Ease of use
- Purpose of use
- Productivity, and
- Business presentation.
Having a business telephone communication system is clearly desirable for a business in order to get in touch with potential clients and customers.
A business will lose a great deal of money if it failed to communicate with their clients effectively. Communication systems help in maintaining customers, colleagues and suppliers, as such a business should have its own communication system.
Where to get the Right Communications Solution for Your Business
With the advent of IP based phone systems, businesses no longer have geographical limitations.
They only need access to the internet in order to be linked to their phone system. This gives small and even medium sized businesses much needed flexibility for telecommuting and saves a lot on long distance charges for companies with many branches who make the bulk of their calls between locations.
With Auto Attendant features present in most phone systems, even businesses with 2 or 3 employees can present themselves as large companies. Whether you are a small business, multi-site/medium business or corporate, Samsung Communications Centre offers the right communications solution and collaboration capabilities to suit your needs and budget.
From basic phone system to the most sophisticated unified communications solutions, we can provide your business flexibility, mobility, cost-effective scalability and investment protection. Collaborate in real-time more effectively, via virtually and device. Connect anytime, anywhere with associates, customers and partners - in the office, at home or en route.
Samsung Communications Centre can help you choose the right solution that can boost both your productivity and customer satisfaction.


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Unless otherwise stated, our weekend trips depart Thursday evening and return Sunday. All trips include accommodation with breakfast, a Bus2alps trip leader and exclusive discounts, and all bus departures include round-trip transportation. Many weekend trips also include walking tours, museum entrances and more.
Hop on the bus for a single day adventure or add a day trip onto your weekend in one of our destinations. Day trips include round-trip transporation, a Bus2alps trip leader and entries where applicable.
Long breaks are five or more days that include holiday weekends, Fall and Spring Breaks and extended Summer Break tours. With options to meetn us there or travel with us by bus, these tours take the headache out of planning multi-city trips and allow maximized time to enjoy your vacation.
Don't see the date or destination you're looking for? Consider organizing a group trip departing from your city. E-mail [email protected] and we can set up a custom trip for your school or group.


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The Tranzac Transcripts: Evalyn Parry
Evalyn Parry sits on an expanded version of the Tranzac Main Hall stage. Photo by Lodoe-Laura Haines-Wangda/Torontoist.
The Tranzac Club still has money woes, though things are looking up for the new year. While the Annex staple is raising money to cover its current operating deficit, Torontoist is conducting a series of interviews with musicians who have close ties to it. Up today: Evalyn Parry, a musician, poet, and theatre creator who's been frequenting (and performing at) the Tranzac for decades. She is the co-founder of the Independent Aunties theatre company, an associate artist and the Young Creators Unit director at Buddies in Bad Times Theatre, and has spent the better part of this year touring her musical SPIN, about feminism and bicycles—using bicycles as instruments—across Canada.
EVALYN PARRY: My parents were Morris dancers, and were very involved with what has now become the Flying Cloud Folk Club—it used to be the Fiddler's Green Folk Club. So I grew up coming to folk shows here, and Morris dance practices, and weekend events. I was part of a crew of kids who'd been coming here since I was 5 or 6, and we felt like we owned the place.
I don't remember what was going on upstairs at the time—it wasn't set up for rentals like it is now—but there were empty offices up there, so while the adults were doing whatever they were doing, we'd be upstairs hanging out, and playing hide and seek, So that'd be my earliest memories of the place, in the early to mid-eighties.
TORONTOIST: So, at that time, was the Tranzac still more for Aussies and Kiwis, or was it already a general purpose cultural space?
EP: It was already a very diverse cultural centre. The NAGS were doing their community theatre here. The reason I was here was because of my parents, and those groups didn't have any Australian or New Zealander affiliations. For the last thirty years, the Tranzac has been this general purpose hub for Toronto arts and culture.
TORONTOIST: So you grew up here while your parents were doing Morris dance and Fiddler's Green—when did you start performing here yourself?
EP: Well, in the last ten or twelve years, really. I moved away for university and for a while after, so when I came back, that's when I got involved myself, performing as a grown up [laughs]. Since I moved back to Toronto, and have been working here, I've been coming to a lot of shows at the Traznac, and playing a lot of shows, in all the rooms. I've played in other people's shows, and been to countless parties, and CD releases, and fundraisers and all the many other things the Tranzac is used for.
One thing my parents were also involved in, that continues—they're not really involved anymore, but I am, a little bit—is a multi-cultural celebration in the Christmas season—a really inclusive, diverse celebration for this time of year. It's a really nice community event.
TORONTOIST: So it's not just music scenes, although there's a great many here…
EP: Yeah, amazing music scenes here!
TORONTOIST: A lot of the other interviewees have spoken about the jazz scene, and folk scene, the singer/songwriters who use the spaces here. But the Tranzac is also used for arts fairs, and non-denominational celebrations, and all sorts of other events.
EV: Well, there's not many spaces like it, and part of its charm is that it's not a fancy building; it hasn't been renovated in a while. It hasn't been gentrified, or privatized; it's owned by its members, and run by them, on a shoestring budget, sometimes, but it has that…well, "charm" doesn't even cover it. It serves a real need for the community. In a city like Toronto, where there are so many pay-to-play venues, for musicians and performers, this is actually a place that's accessible and affordable.
TORONTOIST: So a lot of the members have been coming here for many, many years. But a lot of the users of the Tranzac are predominantly younger. What do you think the Tranzac has to do to evolve, to become a club for these younger musicians and patrons, rather than just a venue?
EV: Well, that's what, presumably, [this campaign] is saying, that if people want this place to stay, they need to see it that way.
Up next in the Tranzac Transcripts series: our final interview, with musician and producer Sandro Perri.


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Tiny and secluded, verdant and traditional or trendy and glamorous, the islands of Europe have always been a magnet for tourists in search of an authentic beach holiday. Although not as famous as those of Italy or Spain, the Croatian coastline is peppered with dozens of glorious islands, from the rugged and remote to genuine tourist meccas. Here are 5 of the most beautiful islands in Croatia:
- Hvar Island Croatia
- Vis Island Croatia
- Brac Island Croatia
- Mijet Island Croatia
- Korcula Island Croatia
- Best Islands off Dubrovnik
- Lovers Island, Croatia
- Pag Island Croatia
- Red Island Croatia
- Island of Solta Croatia
- Krk Island
- Silba Island
- Ugljan Island Croatia
- Bol, Island of Brac Croatia
- Bisevo Island Croatia
- Visovac Island Croatia
Hvar Island Croatia
With a privileged location just off the Dalmatian coast, a vibrant nightlife and a series of spectacular beaches, Hvar is without doubt the most fashionable island in Croatia. Also famed for its lush greenery, scenic hilltop vineyards and gorgeous Venetian-era style that adorns its main town, it comes as no surprise that Hvar is such a sought-after destination for the European jetsetters. The most attractive place on the island is the dynamic Hvar Town with its picturesque medieval streets, vibrant atmosphere and stunning yacht-studded port, but the enchanting villages of Stari Grad and Jelsa are well worth a visit for their lovely landscapes and beautiful historic sites.
Vis Island Croatia
If you're a nature lover or a nostalgic traveler looking for "the Mediterranean as it was once" (Croatia's slogan), the fascinating island of Vis is certainly the right place to find it. This magnificent patch of land in the Adriatic Sea is one of the few remaining places that still retain their old-fashion charm. It stands out due to its laid-back atmosphere, authentic cuisine and the unspoilt natural beauty that almost takes your breath away. Highlights include the ancient, yet lively Vis town, the picture-perfect fishing village of Komiza and the pristine sandy beaches speckled around the island's southern coast. Last but not least, thanks to its crystal clear waters and rich marine life, the magnificent Vis Island is an ideal destination for scuba diving.
Brac Island Croatia
Conveniently situated just off the coast of Split, Brac is not only the biggest island in the Adriatic, but also a popular tourist destination, offering something for everyone. Famous especially for the abundance water sports available, Brac prides itself with one of the most spectacular and photographed beaches in Croatia – Zlatni Rat. In addition to this natural wonder, the island boasts a variety of interesting sights, including the awe-inspiring Dragon's cave, the pulsating town of Bol, as well as the idyllic villages of Skrip, Dol and Mirca.
Brac Island Map
Mijet Island Croatia
Perfect for a quiet vacation, Mijet is the greenest and most enthralling of the Croatian islands. With dense forests and luxuriant Mediterranean vegetation covering most of its territory and emerald waters fringing its superb untouched beaches, Mijet can easily be consider a nature's paradise. It boasts two wonderful salt lakes – Veliko and Malo Jezero, an outstanding natural park (Mljet National Park) and a lovely collection of quaint villages, each one more attractive than the other.
Korcula Island Croatia
Korkula lies in central Dalmatian archipelago as the perfect fusion of natural beauty, long-lasting traditions and contemporary development. The entire island is brimming with picturesque secluded beaches and revolves around the walled medieval town with the same name. Dubbed "Little Dubrovnik", Korkula town resembles not only the charm of Croatia's most beautiful city, but also the exquisite architecture of its mind-blowing Old Town with narrow cobbled streets and red-roofed houses. Popular activities on this beautiful island full of art and culture include sightseeing, hiking, snorkeling, scuba diving, sailing, windsurfing and wine tourism. The mouth-watering traditional food, the excellent local wines and the gorgeous museums are all part of Korkula's charm.
Best Islands off Dubrovnik
If you are only staying in the Dubrovnik area and want to do day trips to some islands, here are some of the best:
Lokrum is only 15 minutes away from Dubrovnik and it is amazing! Just head down to the old port and Jump on a ferry and spend the day there. Lokrum is a nature reserve so you cannot stay the night. You can easily explore the left hand section of the island from Lokrum port, but not the whole island on a hot day.
Lopud Island
Lopud can be seen on the the island hoping trips offered by many companies, you can usually see 3 in a day.
Best of the rest
Lovers Island, Croatia
Lovers Island is a pretty big deal among, uh, lovers. Its traditional name is Galesnjak, but many know it by the former, a moniker the island – also dubbed Love Island or Isle of Love – got from its unique heart shape, a resemblance that is nothing short of uncanny.
It sprang to the world's attention in 2009 after photos of Google Earth captured its unique shape, and since then, it has become a lovers' delight.
The private and uninhabited Lovers Island has a surface area of 0.132 sq/km, with a coastline stretching 1.55 km in length. There isn't much to it really, considering its relative newness as a travel destination and the desire to keep it untamed.
Much of it is still virgin land, covered by shrubs upon a mostly rocky terrain, with no notable manmade features, other than the small chapel used to host weddings. It is this raw atmosphere that makes it such a big draw for love birds looking for an idyllic spot to enjoy some alone time. Its unspoiled pebble beach makes for a great place to chill out, and the azure-blue waters of the Adriatic Sea are perfect for a romantic dip.
Other notable activities include camping, picnics and boat rides, and couples looking to stay the night have to bring their own boat and moor up at the jetty.
Lovers Island is tacked between the Pasman islands and the town of Turanj on mainland Croatia, and getting there involves renting a boat at Pasman or Zadar. The alternative is to hop on a cruise that makes a stopover on the island.
Pag Island Croatia
Measuring 60km long, Pag Island is the fifth-largest island in Croatia and boasts one of the longest coastlines.
It is an island of contrasts this.
The landscape itself is as barren as they come, a fact that has led some to liken it to the moon's landscape: dry and relatively barren.
It is the last place you would expect to make for a nice party atmosphere, thus, but do not be fooled. Nice is actually an understatement; this North Dalmatian Island is the ultimate party island in Croatia, such that it has even earned itself the nickname Croatian Ibiza.
Pag Island is home to numerous gorgeous beaches, most of which are relatively untouristed, with each its own unique destination.
For instance, Simun beach is a great camping spot, and one of the best beaches on the island thanks to its calm, shallow cove. Families will love it on Strasko, a two-km-long sandy beach dotted with pine trees, Dalmatian oaks and olive trees, and best known as a child-friendly camping ground.
Zrce beach, on the other hand, is a nightlife haven where the party goes down hard, with multiple summer events and music festivals, including the legendary Hideout Festival.
Besides partying and camping, there is a whopping lot to engage in on this must-visit island which is home to about 10 thousand inhabitants who live here across the year. Deep-seated history. Bird watching. Rock climbing. Fishing. Wine tasting. Local cuisine. Village expeditions. Quad biking. Cruising and much, much more.
Whatever you do, make it a point of sampling the Paski lamb, one of the best in the country, and the special Paski Sir, a cheese made from sheep milk.
Pag is easy to reach, with plenty of low-cost flights from all over Europe. Whichever part of the country you land, all you have to do is catch a bus (or ferry) to the nearby towns of Zadar (an hour's drive) or Rijeka. Alternatives include a bus from Zagreb, the capital, and Split.
Red Island Croatia
Red Island, also known as Crveni otok, is an island made up of two islets – St. Andrew's Island (Sveti Andrija) and Maskin – which have been artificially linked together. There is nothing red about it, save for its red earth, although this can be found throughout the Istria peninsula. The name is said to have been coined by British tourists due to the influx of Russian tourists on the island.
This historical island is home to a large number of beaches, mostly stony with coves. The Sveti Andrija side has a shallow drop-off ideal for kids. Other activities here including windsurfing, sailing and diving (lessons are offered), as well as golfing on the miniature courses. It is on this islet that the most frequented beaches are also nestled, albeit on the south side of the island near the hotel and annex.
Maskin features an indented coast speckled with rocky coves and paths that lead to the woods. Its main activities include swimming and snorkelling, with restaurants and plenty of spaces to picnic.
Getting to Red Island is easy as there are plenty of day trips both on and off season. Catch a boat at Rovinj, a picturesque town on the Istria peninsula famed for its pastel houses. You can do so either from the town centre or from Zlatni Rt (Golden Cape) near the Hotel Park.
Island of Solta Croatia
With a total size of 58 sq/km, Solta (pronounced Sholta) is the 13th largest island in Croatia, with a coastline that stretches 80 km. It is home to about 1,500 people, with eight settlements scattered both inland and along the shore. The summer months do witness a flurry of tourists, though, and as far as attractions go, Necujam is the most famous (and youngest) of the eight – and understandably so considering it sits the island's longest and biggest beach.
Necujam also happens to hold the longest tourism history tracing numerous centuries back, as well the largest bay on the island. However, the mantle of largest settlement goes to Grohote, an agricultural area located in the middle of the island.
Stomorska is the second most important in terms of tourism, and the summer months witness a number of fishing activities. This is the go-to place for nightlife in Solta, and here you'll find the largest concentration of cafes on the island.
What makes this island the treasure it is today is that it remained unaffected by the mass tourism during socialism which has seen it largely retain its natural and cultural heritage to this day.
Solta may not be on the list of most glamorous Dalmatian islands, but if you are not one for large crowds, you will fall in love with this island that remains sufficiently undiscovered. The island is also a feast for the history lover, with attractions and traditions waiting to be discovered.
There are multiple car ferry trips between the city of Split and Rogac, Solta's main port, and this takes 50 minutes on average.
You can also get to Solta via a catamaran from Split to Rogac, which also plies the Stomorska route on certain departures. From the ferry harbor, there are buses to all villages on the island.
Krk Island
Krk Island, along with Cres, are the two biggest islands in Croatia, coincidentally measuring 405.78 sq/km each. Krk is the northernmost island in the Adriatic Sea. Its southern section is more forested and home to one of Croatia's rare sandy beaches in Baska (pronounced Bashka). The northwestern part experiences some fierce winds, a fact that contributes to its barren look. Krk Town sits in between these two, and it is here that most of the tourism on the island happens.
Attractions range from historic towns to rural villages, where the authentic spirit of the old world is still very much alive, as well as secluded bays and crowded city beaches, family-friendly restaurants, and night bars.
This is not the go-to island for anyone looking for some peace and quiet for the simple reason that it is the most visited island in Croatia.
Krk is also the most accessible island in the country.
Most people get here by car because it is linked to the mainland by causeway. There is also an abundance of buses from Rijeka, best known as the gateway to the islands of Croatia, with stops in all the towns on the island.
Silba Island
Silba, also known as the Gates of Dalmatia, is a largely secluded island – farthest from the shore in Zadar archipelago actually – and one of the most beautiful Croatian islands hands-down.
If Lovers Island resembles the heart, then the 15 sq/km Silba looks more like a kidney. Heck, its no-car policy (and lack of hotels – tourists stay in apartments and private houses) means it even maintains the purification aspect, a fact emphasised by its unspoilt, soothing nature that easily makes it one of the leading eco-islands in Croatia.
Bicycles are also banned on the island (at least between mid-July and late-August) meaning all activity is kept at pedestrian pace. Even the only settlement on the island – Silba Town – has an air of calming luxury about it, with its walled gardens and palm-shaded houses a constant reminder of the island's once commercial affluence.
Silba Island features some breathtaking natural sights, and its roughly 300 residents charm visitors with tantalizing delicacies and interesting events organized by the island's Tourist Association.
Other activities to engage in include skirting the serene bays on the northern and eastern parts of the shore, snorkelling, beach volleyball and more. Scaling Toreta, the panoramic viewing tower, is a must. You can get to Silba by boat or ferry from Zadar, the closest city on the mainland. A trip by catamaran takes 1.5 hours while the ferry will take you 4.5 hours. The alternative route is from Pula or the Island of Mali Losinj.
Ugljan Island Croatia
Nestled opposite the town of Zadar is the island of Ugljan, one of the most charming islands on the Zadar archipelago. The whole lot of it is covered in green, with Mediterranean plantation – pine trees, olive and vine groves, dense bushes etc. – dotting its landscape. Little wonder it's nicknamed the green island.
The eastern side facing Zadar is gentler and more populous compared to its steeper and rugged western counterpart which remains uninhabited. Ugljan Island has a rustic feel to it which makes it the perfect escape from the bustling Zadar – or an alternative place of accommodation.
Its population of 6,000 (should be more considering the last count was in 2011) has been agricultural and fishing oriented since centuries gone by. However, tourism is, understandably, becoming a main feature.
Ugljan is an island made up of seven settlements, the largest of which goes by the same name.
Kali is more popular with fishermen on the Adriatic, while Kukljica is a fishing-turn-recent-tourist hotspot, especially for families with children, yachtsmen and excursionists.
Preko provides basic tourist offerings like shops, restaurants, bars, and also a bank and gas station. Ugljan, for its part, features attractive sandy beaches, the most beautiful of which can be found in Cinta and Mostir coves.
Ugljan Island can be reached by the multiple regular lines from Zadar.
Bol, Island of Brac Croatia
Bol is an old town (oldest settlement in Croatia in fact) located on the southern part of the island Brac. It sits in perfect solitude at the bottom of Vidova Mountain and is the highest point in the Adriatic Sea.
You cannot help but marvel at its beauty on the map. As well, in real life, it so happens to be home to a beach widely considered the prettiest in Croatia, the Zlatni Rat beach. This is a beach that many esteemed Top 10 lists have also voted one of the most beautiful in the world.
The island, also known as Golden Horn beach, juts 500 metres out into the Adriatic Sea in a unique V-shape. It is covered in pebbles, with turquoise waters surrounding it which transform into a deep azure the farther away you move from the shore. Even the shape itself is not permanent as it's subject to change from wind and water currents.
Major activities to engage in include swimming and sunbathing, windsurfing, scuba diving, boat excursions, biking, hiking, discovering nearby beaches, ball games and much more. If you're looking for beaches to visit in Croatia, slot Zlatni Rat beach (and Bol as a whole) right at the top of your list.
The island of Brac has four ferry ports – Bol, Milna, Supetar and Sumartin – so getting there is convenient. You can do so through car ferry or the faster catamaran.
You can also reach Brac by road, but you'll first have to make your way to Split (there are multiple paths depending on where you are). From Split, take a ferry to Supetar on the island Brac, from where you will go another 39 km by car to get to Bol. If you're coming from the south of Croatia, take a ferry from Makarska to Sumartin on Brac, then do another 29 km from Sumartin to Bol by car.
Bisevo Island Croatia
Bisevo Island is more of an islet that only covers 6 sq/km. It is the remotest inhabited island in Croatia. Bisevo would rarely be on the news were it not for a few treasures holed up on the tiny island.
Most notable is the famous Modra Spilja (the Blue Grotto), an incredibly beautiful blue cave that lies at the Balun Cove on the island's eastern side. The Blue Cave (its more popular name) had always been known to ancient Croatian fishermen, but it was not until 1884 when its side wall was blasted with dynamite to make a relatively easier entrance.
Before then, the only way you could gain access was to dive under the rock wall at just the precise spot. The cave emits a bright blue glowing effect which is as a result of the sun's rays penetrating the water and reflecting off the cave's limestone floor. It makes for quite a spectacle, and it's at its most beautiful between 11 am and noon on any given sunny, peaceful day.
Bisevo Island is also home to about 10 caves strewn around its coast, but none like the Blue Cave.
The best way to get to the island is to hire a boat in Komiza and take all the time in the world to tour the island. Otherwise, there are plenty of summer excursion boats linking Komiza and Bisevo.
A regular passenger ferry service is also not too bad an idea, considering it departs Komiza at 8 a.m. You can have the island to your own until 3.30 p.m. when the return trip from Porat on Bisevo is scheduled.
Visovac Island Croatia
Visovac Island, located in the middle of Visovac Lake in Krka National Park, is one of Croatia's most treasured natural and cultural resources. Reason is because one of the most magnificently located monasteries in the world sits here, if not the most magnificently located.
The Franciscan monastery traces its roots back to 1576, long after Visovac Island had assumed a de facto status as a religious hermit.
Think of the monastery complex – which also houses the Church of Our Lady of Visovac – as a tiny island within the larger island of Visovac. It is completely detached from the main island, sitting smack in the middle of the water, with a cypress ring palisading it. It's one of the most beautiful natural settings you will come across.
In the centuries that followed, particularly between the 16th and 19th centuries, the monastery amassed an exquisite collection of reliquaries, paintings and folk costumes. These treasures are available for show in a small museum often tended by 10 monks in residence.
You can get to Visovac Island by taking a boat from Bristane village on the mainland. Sunday mass is a must every week, and the monastery assumes the responsibility of ferrying worshippers to and from Bristane for mass. Miss that, and you have to head to Skradin in Krka National Park to take an excursion boat.


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Landscape can be one of the most conservative of genres, but in the hands of a sensitive, questing artist it can become one of the most radical. Ian Mood is an artist who is drawn towards the shifting vastness in which we live and have our being; an arena of powerful agencies that every so often remind us of their unpredictability and awesome might.
In an age that seems intent upon commodifying the natural world into near non-existence, Mood offers a salutary reminder of the protean energies of the natural world. In his paintings, fluid traces of paint swirl, gather and disperse, like the reflections on the surface of a disturbed pool, to create a perfect equivalence for the dance of light and colour that characterises our experience of the northern landscape. No trace of anecdote or distracting detail disturbs the immediacy of his responsiveness to the dynamic and ever-changing relationship of land and sky.
This is the magic of paint: how from a limited range of colours (and a magisterial use of black) the painted canvas or board conjures forth the glorious pageantry of the heavens, the rising vapours that catch the silvery light, soft mauves and lilacs, colouring the scudding phalanxes of these majestic clouds. Mood captures their wonderful tumult, how the deep blue of the empty sky is counterpointed by their agitated, massy forms of rolling vapour that cast dramatic shifts of light and shade onto the landscape below. Transmutable and contingent, the passing clouds, once pictured in medieval and renaissance painting as the throne of God now rest empty: mirrors of our mood. This is not imitation or illusion, but evocation."