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Anyone who follows BTS is probably more than aware of the movie, "Burn The Stage", which has been airing this weekend at select theatres. Fortunately, I was lucky enough to be able to go see it on Saturday, and I'd like to share my experience for those who may not have had the opportunity to see it. Now, this isn't completely a review of the movie itself and as such, should not really contain any spoilers (with one exception that I note). This is mainly about what it was like to go watch the film. So, without further ado, welcome to my experience watching "Burn The Stage".
First of all, the movie itself was WONDERFUL! I'll say it louder for the people in the back: WONDERFUL! It rotated between lighthearted, funny moments (plenty of jokes to go around) and darker, often subtle moments about being an idol and the difficulties and pressures BTS face constantly. There were (many) scenes of them purely enjoying themselves and their absolute joy at music shows in America that were grounded by times where they were hurt and still found the will to keep going, which was very admirable. The members themselves were very insightful at times in the film about their beliefs and motivations as artists. This same level of depth was also present in the narration, which used themes present in BTS' hidden track from Love Yourself 承 'Her', "Sea (바다)" (Lyrics: https://colorcodedlyrics.com/2017/09/bts-bangtansonyeondan-sea-bada). In fact, the same exact metaphor about the ocean and desert that drove the song was often referenced in transition narrations throughout the film, a direct quote from the song even being used on a single occasion. Yet, simultaneously, several scenes of the members being themselves and just plain adorable were present to keep the mood from becoming too deep and dark for viewers. (Yoongi was quite hilarious to watch at some parts, and of course, Jin struck with his dad jokes as always. There was a lot of entertainment in this department from BTS.)
With many of the members having their stand-out moments in the hour-and-a-half of footage, it felt as if some were a lot more soft-spoken. For instance, I can only think of a couple of memorable scenes with Jimin, and neither one was particularly happy, though one was more subtly dark than the other. In contrast, other members had MANY scenes that I vividly remember. While watching, I was a little curious as to why this would happen. The only other thing I can think of regarding the film itself that bothered me a little was that the person who wrote the subtitles decided to put a WHITE font over WHITE clouds (a terrible combination), and that irritated me for the ten seconds it was on the screen while my eyes squinted to read it. This one was more of a pet-peeve than a real problem, though.
Now, I can 100% say with certainty that no movie theatre experience will ever come close to this one in particular (unless another group with a huge following releases a movie, in which case I'll be buying tickets to that as well). First, I had walked into the theatre, and half of the people had BTS jackets or shirts on. I even saw someone with an adorable Chimmy shirt while in line for movie snacks and people with Tata plushies. I had gone with friends, and only one of the three of us actually was wearing a BTS jacket in the middle of what was like a fan-gathering. (I felt a little out of place in my martial arts shirt.) Safe to say, I hadn't seen that many ARMYs in one place since I went to Office Depot right after "Epiphany" was released, and the Sharpie testing board had been attacked by at least twenty people, including myself, but that's a story for another time. Then, the movie room itself is where the real fun was (and a little frustration, as there were barely any seats for our party). People had ARMY bombs they were waving around to show support before the movie (someone even had a BlackPink light stick, which I found amusing as someone who is a part of multiple fan-bases). It looked like a BTS concert was about to start up in that room with all the visible hype right then.
When the movie started, the place went mad. People were screaming like crazy, and it was annoying me a little because I couldn't hear the introduction very well. That was the only thing that was a negative about the whole experience, actually. I was pretty thankful for the subs (which had to be read the entire time, since everything was obviously in Korean, save for a few lines), though I know they irritate some people because they can be a hassle to keep up with, but these were done well and not detrimental to the film. (As a side-note, during the beginning of the movie, I died laughing when the BigHit intro played and thought they were going to play an MV first to troll everyone. They didn't, but it was a funny thought.) People reacted to the movie like BTS was actually standing where the screen was and could hear us. Honestly, it felt like they could sometimes in those moments, even though the obviously couldn't. There was no shortage of clapping, "aww"-ing, and cheering throughout the showing. It was a loud but immersed audience there that day.
Now, there was one thing unique about my experience that you likely won't encounter at most theatres, even with the same movie, but I'll discuss it anyway. The power had gone out smack-dab in the middle of the movie, and the place went tribal, and by that, I mean it turned into a whole ARMY ritual session. The flashlights went on immediately when everyone realized what had happened. Some crafty person even took it upon themselves to point theirs at the screen and make shadowy hand symbols on it, which included several types of finger hearts and the "okay" hand. At the same time, everyone screamed out fan-chants in messy synchronization. (Half of the theatre was a name behind.) People also shouted the lyrics to IDOL and Magic Shop (the second was quite beautiful in a way, actually). It also happened to be that someone dragged a Bluetooth speaker along and played the IDOL MV out loud to everyone as we all followed along to the lyrics, though that had been cut short by the movie finally coming back on.
After elaborating on the things that occurred, I would like to quickly acknowledge the music used throughout the movie. I thought it was great that music from even early albums was used to show the growth of the group over the past five years. I vividly remember hearing "Look Here (여기 봐)" and seeing and hearing the "No More Dream" MV. Also, the orchestral version of Spring Day that was used as background music needs a special mention because it was so gorgeous and emotional in its placement.
Quick spoiler (only this paragraph): The song choice during the credits (Paradise/낙원) almost brought me to tears after having listened to the members' commentaries at the end because it made the meaning of the song hit me so much harder after hearing Yoongi's insights. (If you haven't read the lyrics, please take a moment to do so, if you would like, since I believe they are very beautiful: https://colorcodedlyrics.com/2018/05/bts-bangtansonyeondan-paradise-nagwon)
Quick spoiler over.
All-in-all, the whole movie was a very enjoyable experience for me, and something about it was amazing, even if it was just to watch BTS through a screen with a bunch of other people. But, I think that having all the people there to share a common interest and passion for a group with was what made it so special. If you didn't have the chance to go to any of the showings, I hope this short blog was a good, fun read for you to know what it was like. (Let's hope BigHit releases a DVD, too!) If you were able to go, feel free to share your experience with everyone in the comments! Thank you all for reading, and have an awesome day!


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Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Serves: 4
2 skinless chicken breasts, trimmed of fat (450g)
1 tbsp tandoori paste
2 tbsp low-fat Greek yoghurt
1/4 tsp tandoori paste, extra
4 wholegrain or reduced-fat soft wraps (20cm)
2 Lebanese cucumbers, halved, sliced into thin strips lengthways
1 small red capsicum, seeded and sliced into thin strips
60g snow pea sprouts
20 mint leaves
Preheat oven to 200C (180C fan forced).
Coat chicken in tandoori paste then place in a medium baking dish or on to an oven tray lined with baking paper. Bake for 15-20 minutes until cooked through. Once cool enough to handle, slice thinly.
Combine yoghurt with extra tandoori paste; spread 2 tsp evenly on each wrap.
Layer equal amounts of chicken, cucumber, capsicum and sprouts on one edge of each wrap, top with a row of mint leaves. Roll up tightly to enclose filling and cut in half.
Cover and refrigerate tandoori-coated chicken for as long as time permits, from 30 minutes to overnight.
Recipe from LiveLighter © State of Western Australia, 2013. For more healthy lifestyle tips and information, visit livelighter.com.au.

subset: commoncrawl


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They could be perfect...but someone forgot to sew POCKETS. *cough* So put your ID and phone somewhere else if you're going out.
I bought up a size and it was so tight I felt sick.


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President Obama Signs Bipartisan Medicare Law
Just a few days ago, President Obama signed H.R. 1845 (112th), the bipartisan Strengthening Medicare and Repaying Taxpayers (SMART) Act, which was introduced by Reps. Tim Murphy (R-PA) and Ron Kind (D-WI) in the House and Sens. Ron Wyden (D-OR), Rob Portman (R-OH), Ben Nelson (D-NE) and Richard Burr (R-NC) in the Senate.
The legislation was a bipartisan solution to streamline the Medicare Secondary Payer (MSP) system, to ensure that seniors and persons with disabilities get timely assistance and taxpayers are repaid millions of dollars every year.
The SMART Act is seen as a victory for senior advocates.
We will see how effective SMART is, as the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) must still work to eliminate confusion and uncertainty by providing clear, efficient and definitive information to seniors.
Medicare Secondary Payer (MSP):
– The MSP process ensures Medicare is reimbursed for medical bills that are the responsibility of another party – such as an insurer or negligent party.
– A senior or person with disabilities who has been injured, and later obtains recourse through the legal system, often cannot access their settlement until Medicare is reimbursed for all medical cost
– The current MSP system is inefficient and slow to return dollars to the Medicare Trust Fund, which is funded by tax payer money
– It can take years for the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) to report reimbursement amounts to beneficiaries and CMS can seek multiple reimbursement amounts over time, providing further delay and uncertainty
The SMART Act will:
- Require CMS to maintain a secure web portal to access claims and reimbursement amounts in a timely fashion.
CMS must upload care payments they disperse within 15 days with the required information about the payment.
- Streamline the process of obtaining reimbursement amounts.
- Medicare beneficiaries must notify CMS they are anticipating a settlement no more than 120 days beforehand.
- CMS then has 65 days to ensure the web portal is up-to-date, but may request an additional 30 days, if needed
- Reimbursement amounts are reliable if downloaded from the web portal within three days of settlement.
- Provide a process and timeline for discrepancies and appeals.
Medicare beneficiaries can provide documentation for discrepancies on the web portal to CMS. CMS has 11 days to respond to discrepancies.
– If CMS does not respond in 11 days, the amount calculated by the beneficiary is the correct amount.
– An additional appeal process must be established by CMS for reimbursements it attempts to collect from insurance plans.
– Create a threshold for collecting any payment amounts by CMS that are below the cost it incurs to collect an average claim.
– Readjust the penalty for reporting errors by insurers based on the violation.
– Ensure greater privacy for beneficiaries by no longer requiring use of full social security or health id claim numbers.
– Create a three year limit for CMS to seek any repayments beginning from when they were informed of an anticipated settlement.
Attorneys such as Margaret Dore in Seattle assert that Washington and Oregon laws that allow assisted suicide is a factor for increasing elder abuse. Ms. Dore explains that the Oregon and Washington assisted suicide acts have a formal application process. The acts allow an heir, who will benefit from the patient's death, to play a large role in this process.
Once the lethal dose is issued by the pharmacy, no mechanism for oversight exists. That means that no one needs to witness the death. Without disinterested witnesses, Ms. Dore asserts, "[T]he opportunity is created for an heir, or for another person who will benefit from the patient's death, to administer the lethal dose to the patient without his consent. One method would be by injection when the patient is sleeping. The drugs used in Oregon and Washington are water soluble and therefore injectable. If the patient woke up and struggled, who would know?"
In Washington and Oregon, the state health departments are required to collect some basic information for its annual reports. According to these reports, users of assisted-suicide are for the vast majority white and well-educated. Many have private insurance. Most are age 65 and older. People that fall into this demographic are seniors with money, which we have seen are commonly targeted and at a higher risk of financial abuse.
The forms used to collect the statistical information do not ask about abuse. Moreover, not even law enforcement is allowed to access information about a particular case. Alicia Parkman a mortality research analyst at the Center for Health Statistics, Oregon Health Authority, wrote to Ms. Dore: "We have been contacted by law enforcement and legal representatives in the past, but have not provided identifying information of any type."
Consumer Reports warns about financial elder abuse
KOMO News reported on the growing trend of financial elder abuse with focus on Consumer Reports recent investigations.
The message to the elderly: Even those you might trust the most–your family and friends–are the ones who are in the best position to drain bank accounts and take over real estate of vulnerable senior citizens.
Sadly, these are the types of crimes most difficult to spot, as it seems from most distant observers that someone's family or caregiver is working in the best interest of the vulnerable elder.
Nevertheless, senior citizens are the most vulnerable for scams. From forging to pleas for a loan to abuses of power of attorney. When someone has power of attorney, they have unfettered access to your accounts. Someone who misuses those powers can decimate financial accounts, leaving them with virtually nothing.
To help prevent elder abuse:
- Have bank and investment statements sent to a person you trust to monitor accounts.
- Arrange for direct deposit and automatic bill pay.
- Consult a reputable elder law attorney for advice on wills and limiting power of attorney.
Consumer Reports says there are good places to get help if you or an elderly relative is concerned about financial abuse, including the National Center on Elder Abuse, which has links to help and hotlines.
You can also get help for elders dealing with Alzheimer's Disease or other memory loss issues, from the local Alzheimer's Association.
Over 50% of Elder Financial Abuse Cases Involve Own Family Member
In today's MarketWatch Reality Q&A, the sad but true fact is underscored: Over half of this country's elder abuse cases involve a family member, not shady "mortgage professionals." The column indicates that sons are most likely to scam their parents or grandparents, more so than a fraudulent contractor/handyman or paramour.
This doesn't mean that senior citizens should trust all lenders suddenly. Make sure that the senior that you're concerned about understands the terms of the loan and the pros/cons of going through with the loan before s/he signs on the dotted line. Reverse mortgages rank as the 8th most prevalent scam targeting the elderly.
Fresno Woman Investigated for Ripping Off Senior Citizens
A woman in Fresno, CA, Sharon Harrelson, 55, is being investigated by local police for elder financial abuse. Elderly people, such as Michael Wyrick, trusted Ms. Harrelson and thought she was a friend, when depositing money directly into her account. She convinced these senrios that she could help them with their long term care by hiding their assets.
To qualify for Medi-Cal, these vulnerable adults entrusted her with tens of thousands of dollars. Police began investigating her in 2009, and alerted her employer about her possible criminal activities.
An investigator reported that Harrelson actually admitted to her employer that she had embezzled some money when they did an audit. She was fired soon thereafter.
Sadly, this type of situation is multiplying across the country, including in the Pacific Northwest.
Bring the "Silent Epidemic" to an End
Earlier this month, a group of Senators renewed their efforts to protect seniors from elder abuse with the Elder Protection and Abuse Prevention Act. Democratic Senators, Richard Blumenthal, Al Franken, Sheldon Whitehouse, and Robert Casey introduced this bill, to craft a range of comprehensive elder abuse prevention
The bill prods more third parties to stop elder abuse when they can do so. Federal definitions of elder abuse, neglect, and exploitation would be toughened. The definitions would be better aligned with the two prior bills that adressed this issue: the Elder Justice Act and the Older American Act. Those bills never defined elder financial abuse, which is a problem of epidemic proportions among seniors in our country,
Additionally, the bill requires better coordination of elder abuse justice programs nationwide and expands the National Adult Protective Services Resource Center to provide additional services and guidance to states. The measure would also require the development of best practices for elder abuse screening and increase support for state prevention, assessment, and response services.
Each of the senators who introduced the bill touched on the fact that the exploitation has gone on for decades will little notice from those in a position to stop it. Senator Casey noted that, "we must bring this largely silent epidemic of elder abuse to an end.
Population of 90+ Year Old Tripled Within 3 Decades, Will Quadruple by 2050.
The Census Bureau reports some sobering statistics: The segment of our population that is 90 years old or older has tripled in the past three decades to 2 million. The number is projected to quadruple by 2050.
As the economy continues to limp along and the aging population jumps, an increasing number of elderly people are forced to turn to their younger relatives. Unfortunately, these family members don't always have their vulnerable elders' best interest in mind. This is one of the key reasons why elder financial abuse is growing at epidemic proportions.
A recent USA Today article addresses this troubling problem, reporting the opening of the first elder abuse shelter in Ohio. Despite the statistics that point to widespread abuse, the total number of elder abuse shelters in this country are in the single digits, Non profit groups fund all of them.
Word still needs to get out that our the elder abuse problem is cutting across socio-economic lines.
Holiday Season Sees Surge in Scams Preying on Seniors
This time of the year, many seniors are particularly vulnerable to elder abuse and scam artists who prey on our senior citizens.
The following examples highlight scams regularly perpetrated against senior citizens. You are encouraged to share examples with all the senior citizens you know.
The Grandparent Scam
There are several versions of the "Grandparent" scam. In the most common version the victim will receive a call from an unknown person who will immediately say "Grandma" or "Grandpa" after the victim answers the phone. The victim will reply, "Johnny" or Janie" (the name of their grandson or granddaughter). The caller will reply, "Yes it's your Grandson Johnny." The caller will explain they are in trouble while visiting another country. The most common countries are Canada, Mexico, Jamaica, and Spain. The caller will claim to have been arrested and/or in jail, involved in a vehicle accident or experiencing a medical emergency and they need money wired to them urgently.
The caller will ask the victim not to contact other family members because they are embarrassed. The caller will ask for the money to be wired in the name of an unknown third-party. The amount to be wired can vary from $500.00 to $50,000.00. The largest amount wired from San Diego to China was $130,000.00. The caller said he needed emergency surgery. The hospital would not perform the procedure without a "bond" to cover the expense since the imposter did not have medical insurance in China.
What can I do? The victims in these scams have all sworn the caller sounded just like their loved one. The first thing you should do after receiving such a call is make a telephone call to a "good" phone number you have for your grandson or granddaughter. If you cannot reach them call your grandson or granddaughter's parents to confirm they are indeed out of the country before you wire any money. Once the money has been wired and received, the money is gone!
The "International Lottery" Scam
Another common telephone scam is the "International Lottery" scam. The caller will inform the victim they have won a substantial amount of money from the lottery of Jamaica or Canada. The victim will be instructed to wire money to cover the "taxes" associated with the prize.
The amount can range from $1,500.00 to $15,000.00. Usually the prize is worth anywhere from one to four million dollars. If money is sent, the victim will begin receiving multiple calls asking for more money to be sent to cover additional taxes, fees, and/or insurance. In reality, the victim has not won any prize and will never see any of their "winnings". And just as the "grandparent" scam: once the money is wired and received, it's gone!
What can I do? Before you send any money remember this, "If it sounds too good to be true, then it probably is." Also, did you know it is against federal law to participate in an international lottery? The reason, the Federal Trade Commission says most foreign lotteries are likely to be scams and U.S. citizens send an estimated $120 million a year to foreign countries on the prospect of obtaining instant wealth. Scammers have turned to the telephone because federal law enforcement officials intercept and destroy millions of foreign lottery mailings every year.
Home Improvement Scams
There are several versions of the "home improvement" scam. An unknown and unsolicited building contractor / handyman will come to the victim's door soliciting for work. In the most common version, this unknown person will explain they are working on a neighbor's home and they ordered too much product for the job. They will also explain that he cannot return the materials, so they will offer to re-roof, paint, or fix cracks in the driveway of the victim's home at a substantial savings.
The catch: the victim has to pay in cash. The amount can range from $500.00 to $5,000.00. The work on the victim's home will look professional at first glance, but it will turn out to be substandard and it usually ends up costing the victim a substantial amount of money to repair.
The purpose of the scam is not to perform substandard work for an inflated expense. The purpose of this scam is to steal cash, jewelry, or any other property from inside the victim's home. The victim's home will be burglarized while they are distracted by the workers.
What can I do? Do not allow unsolicited workers into your home. If someone is soliciting work in your neighborhood, make an appointment for them to return on another day to give you time to check the credentials of business. Check their rating on the "Better Business Bureau" for example.
Vehicle Repair Scams
There are several versions of this scam. In the most common version the victim will be approached by an unknown person after the victim parks their vehicle, usually in a mini-mall. In some cases the victim was followed home. The unknown person will tell victim they are a mechanic and noticed an unusual amount smoke coming from the rear of the victim's vehicle.
The "mechanic" will ask the victim to open the hood so they can take a look at the engine. The "mechanic" will then pull the "O2" sensor or another small component that will disable the vehicle, not allowing it to start. The "mechanic" will now ask the victim to start their car. The "mechanic" will offer to fix the car for less money than a shop or dealership. The amount can range from $300.00 to $500.00. Why, because this is usually within the amount a person can withdraw from an ATM. The "mechanic" will offer to go to a parts store that is around the corner, pay for the part and replace the defective part. In reality, the "mechanic" will leave for twenty-minutes and return with the same part, re-install it and the victim's vehicle starts no problem.
What can I do? Thank the "mechanic" for their concern, but you would rather call a tow truck or relative to assist you. Start to call someone you trust to come help you. Once you start to introduce someone else into the situation the "mechanic" will walk away. Remember, do not open your hood or let this unknown person in your vehicle. If you become afraid, call 9-1-1 to have an officer respond. The police would like to talk to this person and document who they are.
The Immigrant Scam
This scam usually targets Spanish-speaking women. The victim will be approached in a public area, commonly a clothing store by a Hispanic female. The female will claim to be an immigrant from the interior of Mexico. She will tell the victim a sad story about how she came to the United States looking for work. She lived with an American family as a housekeeper and the family mistreated her. She ran away because of the abuse and wants to return to Mexico, but does not have enough money.
She will show the victim a bar of gold, or a bar of silver, or a diamond she took from the American family to sell in an effort to return to Mexico. An unknown male will introduce himself during the story and say he "could not help but over hear" their conversation and offer to help. The male will explain that he has a friend who works at a jewelry store and he'll offer to take the gold, silver, or diamond to have it appraised. The male will return and tell the victim the item is worth thousands of dollars and talk the victim into buying the item for a profit from the female. In the end the victim gives the female $1,000.00 to $5,000.00 for the bar of gold, or silver or the diamond and then cannot find the unknown male to sell the item for profit. As for the bar of gold, silver or diamond, it's fake, usually a painted lead paperweight or Cubic Zirconia gem and not worth $100.00.
What do I do? Offer to refer the female to a church or other service for assistance. But, do not engage in a business deal with unknown people you've just met.
Remember – If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
National Phone Lines Established for General Finance, Medical & Financial Abuse Advice
As of Nov. 10th, a new national hotline for seniors and adult children of the elderly is available to deal with one of America's biggest fraud problems: The estimated 1 out of every 5 citizens over the age of 65 who are victimized by a financial swindle/fraud. Of particular concern are seniors with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) who can perform most daily functions, but have trouble or become confused when it comes to managing their finances.
In collaboration with the National Adult Protective Services Association (NAPSA), the Financial Planning Association (FPA), and Baylor College of Medicine, the Investor Protection Trust (IPT) and Investor Protection Institute (IPI) are making available three separate call-in lines – covering general finance, medical, and financial abuse questions — from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. EST on Thursday, November 10, 2011. (See call-in details below.) Kiplinger's Personal Finance is also a partner in the November 10th hotline project.
The toll-free hotlines will address questions and offer free advice in the following key areas:
General Finance Questions 888-227-1776. Callers are encouraged to dial into this number to speak with an expert from the Financial Planning Association about their family financial security. Callers will get answers to general financial questions, help identifying financial professionals that put your interests first and learn how to protect themselves and their loved ones from financial fraud. FPA professionals can also help initiate a conversation about money with adult children of older parents in order to help prevent elder investment fraud and financial exploitation.
Medical Questions 888-303-0430. Callers to this number can get advice from health care professionals about medical issues such as mild cognitive impairment that can impact an older person's ability to make wise and safe financial decisions and can increase their vulnerability to elder financial abuse and exploitation. The health care professionals can help callers recognize the warning signs of vulnerability to financial abuse in themselves or loved ones and suggest referral routes for further medical screening.
Financial Abuse Questions 888-303-3297. Callers to this number will speak with an adult protective services (APS) professional about elder financial abuse and strategies for keeping themselves or older loved ones independent. Callers can get information on how to recognize the most common ways that older adults are financially exploited and methods for preventing elder financial abuse. APS professionals will also help callers take the proper steps if they suspect that a loved one is currently being financially abused or exploited.
Elder Abuse Results in $2.9 Billion Loss Per 2011 Report
A June 2011 by the MetLife Mature Market Institute (MMMI) reports that older Americans lost $2.9 billion as the result of elder abuse. This is a whopping 12% increase from the previous year.
A common practice among banks is to allow older customers to use signature stamps (especially for those clients who find it more difficult to sign their names on forms, etc.)
The MMMI report is a sobering reminder that elder abuse comes in many forms–not only physical and emotional, but also financial. However, if a signature stamp fall in the wrong hands, it can do much more than wreak more than a little havoc to one's finances. Case in point: Ms. Isenberg.
Ms. Isenberg's daughter, Liz Sanders, hired a caregiver for her bedridden mother. This caregiver, Ms. Wofford, slowly drained over 3/4 of $1 million from Ms. Isenberg's accounts. Wofford wrote herself checks and withdrew from Wofford's life insurance. In addition to racking up tens of thousands of dollars in debt at various department stores, Ms. Wofford treated herself to a Mercedes courtesy of Ms. Isenberg–unbeknownst to Ms. Isenberg and her daughter.
When Liz Sanders found out about how Wofford had victimized Ms. Isenberg, she also learned that restitution was not a reality. However, she was determined to make it less easy for such financial abuse to occur to other elderly Californians. She went to her state senator, Fran Pavley (D-Agoura Hills), and put together California Senate Bill 586, which would have doubled the penalties for elder and dependent adult abuse in California. It added new provisions for the issuing of signature stamps by state-organized banks and credit unions.
The legislation passed easily, backed by the AARP along with other advocates for seniors and the CA Senior Legislature. Yet, Gov. Jerry Brown vetoed the bill last week. His message with the veto was that he did not believe that the bill would prevent fraudulent use of stamps. Brown pointed to another bill that increases penalties for elder abuse embezzlement, forgery, and identity theft as sufficient.
Liz Sanders says she pursued the legislation to find justice for her mother, and also to protect other seniors who might be at risk. The process helped spread the word about this problem throughout California and the United States.
Please heed Sanders' plight and stay mindful of common signs of financial elder abuse:
- Unusual financial activity, abnormal purchases, unpaid bills
- An individual seems neglected physically or his/her home seems neglected
- An elderly person asks to add a new name to bank accounts or seeks other co-signing arrangements
- An individaul is granted power of attorney, although the senior may not have known that person for a long period of time
- Increasing isolation of a senior along with decreasing contact with family members/friends
- The emergence of a sudden "new best friend," especially of someone who is much younger than the senior.
Better to err on the side of caution and report any suspicions to local authorities, which often have a division that focuses on assisting seniors.


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Time for another Paper Pretties blog challenge! But first Paper Pretties is releasing two brand new sets today, both of which are sentiment sets. We have Cursive Greetings 1 and Cursive Greetings 2.
With the release of these two stamp sets it seems fitting that this week's challenge is to Use a Sentiment as the focal point on your card.
Layout is from today's Sketch challenge 367 over at SCS
How to Enter: If you would like to play along with us, all you have to do is create a card/project using the above challenge and upload it to your blog and/or to your SCS Gallery using the keyword PWC188.
Don't forget to include a link to your card on the Paper Pretties Blog, so everyone can see it too. You don't have to use Paper Pretties stamps to play, but of course if you have them we would love to see you use them. One random participant will receive a Paper Pretties Stamps set … see the Paper Pretties Blog for more details.
I have another sneak at my room. One of my favorite drawers! Just look at all that "candy"!
Hopefully soon I will be able to show you what the entire area looks like. Trying to find one more thing first and if we can't find it then we are going to have to rig it up ourselves. Only problem I have is that I'm so organized I don't know where anything is at!!
Thanks for stopping by!


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Static at end of last song on record, followed by swooshing sound of needle going back and forth in the blank space at the end of the album.
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Bullying and Resilience
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This Personal, Social and Community Health unit introduces five resilience strategies to help students deal positively and effectively with bullying.
Classroom story and activity to focus on the impacts of bullying.
Choosing your country and state helps us to provide you with the most relevant teaching resources for your students.


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Cases / / Tomorrow Innovations
Tomorrow Innovations
TomorrowInnovations is an extensible program incubating global talent in order to create the next generation of start-ups.
The program is founded by TomorrowVentures, a hybrid, opportunistic venture capital firm developing innovative ideas with the power to change the way we live.
The goal of the contest is to grow companies capable of transforming technology, lifestyle, and philanthropy. The competition is a classic one where people sign up, present their ideas and then after deliberating the winners are announced.
We were involved in designing and developing the competition website.
For the contest we had to create an application form for start-ups to present their ideas. The applications introduced into the system could then be viewed from the admin panel. Judges could easily browse all application and pick the ideas that would receive funding.
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Day 1.134 – When Bill handed me a bill
Lafayette -> Patterson
Distance (km) : 106
Time on bike : 4h 48m
Brutto time: 11.40 – 19.00
Avg : 22.0
Max.speed: 41.3
Total (km) : 47.580
Altitude: 5 m
Difficulty: 2½ of 5
The weather systems have changed dramatically overnight. It's a cloudy, cool, and rainy day today. Just 20-22 degrees Celsius compared to 30-35 the other day.
I have my first flat tyre in the US today. After fixing the tube, my pump broke down, and my extra pump didn't really do the job either, so I dragged the gear to the nearest gas station in search for air. No such luck. But the angels up there weren't sleeping, they just directed me to Bill…
…and Bill is a fine man. Not only did he help me inflate my rear tyre with air from his trucks' air brake system, he handed me a guitar and asked me to play a few tunes, right there next to the truck, he let me take his photo (cos I like taking photos of fine people), he talked to me about his Indian roots and heritage, and (hold on now, folks) he handed me a USD 100 bill, because he thought what I'm doing is courageous and because he just won USD 2.000 at the casino last night. I was absolutely dumbfounded and, as I told him, I will never ever forget his nobel gesture.
Back on the bike I couldn't really tell if the shakiness I felt was because of a wobbling rear tyre or because of the incredible generocity that life just spilled on me.
Tune of the Day: Ragoo – Kings of Leon
Even with a 100 $ note in my wallet, baked beans & canned corn is what I eat for dinner.
You can buy this day here – and become a part of the WT Hall of Fame 🙂


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Episode 150 - Paging 150
The milestones just keep on coming for Just A Bit Outside, and we're glad you're with us for the ride! We start off with the tire fires that are the BC Lions and Vancouver Whitecaps. While both fires have separate causes, are they equally as bad? How concerned should each team be with their on-field performance? We also talk a little baseball and look back at the British Open (we even discuss the Champions Tour!)
We pass the dogs days of summer with discussion on the great questions we continue to receive from you, including the new arena deal in Calgary, the hiring of Ron Francis in Seattle, the potential of a new sports rivalry in the pacific northwest, and the usual tidbits on the Canucks. All this plus our best and worst in Garbage Time!


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My MPI job appears to run but never produces output. Is it actually running?
It is possible that there is a problem (software or hardware) on one of the nodes that your jobs was assigned. If that is the case, please open a support ticket so that an FSL admin can mark the node offline.
One way to diagnose if your job started on all the nodes it was assigned is to run the following command (assuming job ID 12345):
rjobstat 12345
Maybe the job didn't spawn on all nodes correctly. Maybe some of them are deadlocked. Please ask for help if you need it.
Last changed on Mon Jun 5 14:17:16 2017


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IMI Seminar – Gualtiero Badin – University of Hamburg
Venue: Rossbysalen C609, Arrhenius Laboratory, 6th floor
Stretching, folding, stirring and mixing by submesoscale dynamics in the ocean
Gualtiero Badin
University of Hamburg
Stretching, folding, stirring and mixing by submesoscale dynamics in the ocean
Research interests
Physics, especially geophysical fluid dynamics and physics of the ocean, the atmosphere and the climate, viewed from very large to small scales. Parts of my research cover the following topics:
- Geophysical fluid dynamics
- Large-, meso- and sub-mesoscale ocean and atmospheren dynamics
- Dynamical instabilities in fluids and geophysical fluids
- Geostrophic turbulence
- Water mass transformation theory
- Ocean-Climate variability
- Coastal dynamics
My research methods include development of analytical models, comparison of theoretical results with observations as well as realistic and idealized numerical models.
Time and Place
Tuesday March 27th 2018, 11.15
Rossbysalen C609, Arrhenius Laboratory, 6th floor
Last updated:
March 20, 2018
Source: MISU


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Summary and Keywords
The death and carnage that accompany war usually lead participants to seek transcendent meaning in their suffering as well as in their defeat or victory. This was especially true of the Mexican War, a conflict that deeply affected the growth of civil religion in the United States even as it tested the limits of religious pluralism. Religion gave Americans the most effective means of making sense out of their conflict with Mexico, even as it helped them solidify a national identity as a providentially blessed republic of Anglo-Saxon Protestants.
The Mexican-American War of 1846–1848 was tremendously consequential for both countries. Its immediate cause lay in a dispute over territory claimed by both countries along the border of the newly annexed American state of Texas. Mexican and American troops clashed there on April 25, 1846. The U.S. Congress, though not without some grumbling, quickly responded to a request by President James K. Polk and declared war on Mexico.
In the war, the U.S. Army invaded Mexico by land and sea, taking the capital on September 14, 1847. Other than a few skirmishes and scattered guerrilla attacks, the fighting war was over. In the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo ending the conflict, Mexico ceded nearly its entire northern frontier—one-third of its territory—to the United States.
The war occurred on the heels of the Second Great Awakening and amid the westward migration of the new, much-persecuted Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, or Mormons. At the same time, heavy Irish immigration had reawakened a latent anti-Catholicism, resulting in new political parties, fights over religion in public schools, and deadly anti-Catholic rioting. While evangelical Protestants got to work refining a civil-religious discourse that depended for its intelligibility on anti-Catholicism, nativist politicians began adopting Christian terminology. Thus, the war between the overwhelmingly Protestant United States and Catholic Mexico became the means by which anti-Catholicism emerged as integral to American identity and American belief in a God-given, special mission to the world: spreading liberty and republican government, along with their prerequisite, Protestant Christianity.
Religion impacted the war in other important ways. The U.S. Army sponsored the Mormon Battalion, the only regular U.S. Army unit ever organized along religious lines. Religion also played a role in the formation by American deserters of the Mexican army brigade known as the San Patricios. And despite U.S. government policy to the contrary, a few U.S. soldiers, inspired by recruiters and derogatory descriptions of Mexican religion by American writers and preachers, vandalized and robbed Mexican churches and committed other atrocities. Meanwhile, the war challenged Protestant pacifists and abolitionists, who wondered whether an otherwise evil war could produce the good fruit of opening Mexico to Protestant missionaries or excising Catholicism from the continent.
As a result of the brief but far-reaching Mexican-American War, Americans now possessed a civil religious sentiment and common identity that was intelligible only within a Protestant milieu and through a distinctively American anti-Catholic discourse.
Keywords: Anglo-Saxonism, anti-Catholicism, Lyman Beecher, manifest destiny, Mormon Battalion, Mormons, nativism, James K. Polk, San Patricio (Saint Patrick Brigade), Second Great Awakening
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2020 BMW M135i Review, Specs and Release Date – It is currently named the BMW M135i, however not a massive amount changed. The current 2020 BMW M135i range has unveiled in Australia, with the Bavarian company positioning a standard increased exposure of the performance stop of the array.
2020 BMW M135i Review, Specs and Release Date
2020 BMW M135i Review, Specs and Release Date, BMW has chosen we are worthy once more. So far, very little is thought about the new BMW M135i, yet one major factor could be rather detrimental to its success: it's shifting from a RWD architecture to a FWD architecture. Outside of this, the new BMW M135i will shed its unattractive exterior design in favor of a more aggressive look with a slightly longer wheelbase than previous models.
Rumor also has it BMW is dropping the three-door model, leaving just the five-door hatch to fight against models like the Volkswagen Golf and Ford Focus, among others. Compared to the Mini Cooper, the new BMW M135i will be somewhat longer and is even said to be coming back to the U.S. And, to add even more fuel to the fire, the BMW M135i could return with as much as 360 horsepower on tap sufficiently just to put the Focus RS and Golf R in their place. In any case, before we get too far into all of that, let's take a short walk down memory lane before diving into hints offered by the first round of spy shots.
2020 BMW M135i Exterior
2020 BMW M135i Review, Specs and Release Date, experienced challenging look on its launch this year. The fat entire body, extended cap, and exterior front end did not stay entirely with customers when it arrived at a midsection in the-lifestyle face lift, BMW Review presented it a pretty substantial change.
The 2020 BMW M135i features distinctive write qualities above far more strolling M Sporting activities models, similar to silk gold inserts in the entrance side fender, vanity mirror hats and darker completed 18-" wheels. The result is the fact when compared with competitors; the BMW M135i has a restrained nevertheless purposeful appearance. 2020 BMW 125i Changes, Review.
2020 BMW M135i Interior
2020 BMW M135i Review, Specs and Release Date, the room inside the entrance is excellent however in comparison to the more efficiently packaged rivalry, an area inside the back by and by seat and boot are a tiny limited for a hatch out in this course. Interior technical is BMW; the ubiquitous I-push procedure is all around designed and simple to have close to.
Apple Inc Carplay and Android is Car can easily be purchased as alternatives, even however BMW program is great you will not require them. 2020 BMW M240i Review . Thanks to the BMW M135i relevant age group, the most recent in rich fundamental safety set is an obvious omission, with features like collection leaving behind the caution and emergency autonomous breaking part of a Driving a car Associate decision for £390.
2020 BMW M135i Engine
2020 BMW M135i Review, Specs and Release Date, badge lastly makes a variation. An electric wastegate manages, and shut-combined arrangement of the catalytic converter. It also features another Valvetronic fully adjustable control strategy which offers significantly more accurate load manage, boosting the engine's responsiveness and effectiveness.
The regular six-pack manage (both for the 3-and several front doors,) which makes the BMW M135i precisely three-tenths easier than the BMW M135i. 2020 BMW M550i Specs and Review. Leading speed is, as usual, electronically restricted to 155 mph.
2020 BMW M135i Release Date and Price
2020 BMW M135i Review, Specs and Release Date, are not also easily provided, nonetheless, it's chance-able to envision it could possibly expense just a little in excess of the outbound M135i. In Germany, the final retails from EUR43,500 (regarding $48,875) in 3-front side door installation plus from EUR42,950 (all around $49,600) with the five-entrance door sort of body.


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EU Policy and Legislation
In cooperation with the Evangelical Church in Germany (EKD) Brussel's office, the Conference of European Churches carries out monitoring and action on EU policy and legislation. The Thematic Reference Group for this area provides a forum for discussion and exchange of information on current legal and political matters emerging from the European Institutions. It deliberates on a range of topics including church-state law, fundamental rights, dialogue between the EU and churches, employment law, and other relevant matters.
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In the bangor maine racino. The capital city of Maine has more surviving forts than any other state. Historic homes such as kitchen with all facilities for cooking and drinking. Maine vacation home to fast, furious rivers, lush hills, and plenty of lobsters and other accessories with pictures of Maine natural beauty and environment the bangor maine racino, Laval Mayenne and Vendome.
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Georgia is yet an undiscovered gem in the Caucasus region. Nestled right in between Asia and Europe. This lovely country lets you explore the authentic lifestyle of Georgians, as well as carries Europe's modernism, being so close by. Georgia offers you all the things a traveler could want – ancient city ruins, amazing mountains, beautiful beaches and, most importantly, delicious food, wine, and, for the brave drinkers, chacha. In this Georgia travel itinerary, you'll find all the necessary information to get you ready for your Georgia trip, keep reading!
Let's explore
- Georgia Travel Itinerary
- Tbilisi – 2 Days
- Mtskheta Ancient Capital of Eastern Georgia – 1/2 – 1 Day
- Sighnaghi – The City of Romance – 1 Day
- Stepantsminda (commonly known as Kazbegi) – 1 Day
- Borjomi – 1 Day
- Batumi – 1 Day
- Svaneti Region
- Mestia – 3 Days
- Ushguli – Daytrip from Mestia
- Mazeri – Daytrip from Mestia
- How to Get Around Georgia
- Where to Stay
- Is Georgia Safe to Travel to?
- Summary
Georgia Travel Itinerary
Tbilisi – 2 Days
The capital of Georgia is definitely a place of contrasts. One moment you are walking across the Bridge of Peace and later you are eating khachapuri in one of many ancient cafes around the city. While in Tbilisi you must visit the Old Town and wander around its little streets packed with colorful houses. Local people will wander around the narrow streets and greet you with a smile. Make sure to visit Holy Trinity Cathedral, it is just gorgeous! Also, while exploring Tbilisi, do not miss Rustaveli Avenue and Liberty Square. Statue of Mother of Georgia, Mtatsminda Park, and Dry Bridge Flea Market are also places to include in your Georgia itinerary. This city is full of cool things to do so we have made a separate Tbilisi Travel Guide, where you can learn more about the best places to visit in Tbilisi.
Mtskheta Ancient Capital of Eastern Georgia – 1/2 – 1 Day
Most likely your Georgia travel itinerary will start in Tbilisi as the biggest airport is located in the capital. Thus, while exploring Tbilisi, you have to take a day (or even a half-day) trip to Mtskheta. It was the ancient capital of Eastern Georgia Kingdom and still carries a majestic and authentic feeling. We suggest starting your trip with the visit to Jvary Monastery. From the top, you will be awarded a great view of two rivers Mtkvari and Aragvi coming together. Afterward, just take a walk around the beautiful town and get to know its anciency.
You can easily get to Mtskheta from Tbilisi by marshrutka or taxi from Didube station. You can hail any of the marshrutkas nearby the main marketplace. In fact, drivers will try to catch you even before you catch them. If not, just ask the first local "marshrutka Mtskheta" and he will point you in the right direction. Georgians are very helpful and happy to help out a tourist. The ride to Mtskheta will take only 20 minutes and cost 1 GEL (0.35 EUR). A bargain, isn't it? If you decide in favor of a taxi, always negotiate the price and haggle at least 35% down to what the driver has initially asked.
Sighnaghi – The City of Romance – 1 Day
If you are a romantic person you should take a day trip to Sighnaghi. It is the most romantic town in Georgia and it makes you fall in love again and again – both with your significant other and the town itself. You should visit even if you are not a romance geek! This town is located in the Kakheti region which is known as the wine region of Georgia. While wandering around the town you should see Bodbe Monastery, Sighnaghi City Wall, Kvelatsminda Church, and Gremi. Besides that, if you are in the region make sure to visit one of the wineries. The winemakers will happily invite you for a tasting. And let us tell you, Georgian wines are very famous across Russia and Europe. Georgia is a wine lovers' paradise!
Signaghi is easily accessible from Tbilisi by marshrutka from Samgori station in Tbilisi. The ride to Sighnaghi cost only 6 GEL (2 EUR/ $2.30). Marshrutkas start their service at 9 am and continue until 6 pm with a 2-hour interval. Also, you can arrange a private taxi which would be a great deal if you are at least 2 or 3 people traveling together.
Stepantsminda (commonly known as Kazbegi) – 1 Day
One could not imagine the Georgia Travel Itinerary without going to Kazbegi. It is one of the most iconic places to visit in Georgia due to its stunning views, nature, and hiking routes. While in Kazbegi, you should visit Gergeti Trinity Church and Gveleti Waterfall. If you are an experienced hiker, challenge yourself by climbing the Mount Kazbek. However, there are various hiking routes suitable for both experienced hikers and also beginners.
To get to Kazbegi from Tbilisi, you need to go to Didube station and take a marshrutka or taxi. The marshrutka will cost 10 Gel which is roughly 3.30 EUR or $4. The journey will take around 3 hours and there is no set schedule, for when the minivans leave. It fills up and hits the road. However, you will not have to wait longer than 20 minutes, usually.
If you want to know more about Kazbegi, have a look at our adventures:
Borjomi – 1 Day
One more iconic thing when thinking about Georgia is Borjomi water (at least for Europeans). Borjomi mineral water has a very unique taste like no other mineral water has. It is a bit more on the saltier and bubblier side. Linda's father drinks ONLY Borjomi mineral water, he has proclaimed it the best in the world and it helps his digestion. (Oke, papa, you know better!) Well, guess what, the homeland of Borjomi mineral wonder drink is Georgia. So this Georgia Travel Itinerary continues by taking you to Borjomi – a small town located in the middle of Georgia. When visiting Borjomi, your must-see in Borjomi list should include the Borjomi Central Park, Mtsvane Monastery, and Gogia Fortress.
From Tbilisi, you can go to Borjomi by marshrutka from Didube station, train from Tbilisi central station or just as always by taxi. The marshrutka will cost you 7 Gel and leaves on every round hour starting at 6 am. The ride takes roughly 2 hours, to get from Tbilisi to Borjomi.
Batumi – 1 Day
Batumi is a well-known resort town by the Black Sea in the Adjara region. It became extremely popular during the Soviet Union rule and still many people from Former Soviet Union countries love to visit Batumi. Nowadays, it has become much more modern with many spectacular buildings by the coastline. However, you can still taste ancient Georgia in food and drinks. Make sure to see the statue of Ali and Nino, Alphabetic Tower, Chacha Tower, Piazza Square, and Europe Square. Additionally, take a long walk down the Batumi Boulevard and take the Argo Cable Car to see the city from above. Make sure to visit Batumi Hilton Hotel as they always have great happy hour deals in the late afternoon as of 5 pm and the views from the rooftop bar are stunning! Who would we be if we would not recommend a good happy hour?
If you are going to Batumi from Tbilisi, the best way is taking the train as it is the quickest choice. It takes around 5 hours and costs around 9EUR (10USD).
We had a great Chacha tasting night in Batumi and we befriended amazing Georgian people, look how hospitable they are and how we down MANY Chacha shots:
Svaneti Region
We forbid you to put together a Georgia Itinerary and not include the Svaneti region! Seriously, it is the most beautiful region of the country. Getting there might take a bit longer as roads are in different conditions. Yet, you should plan a couple of days for this region. Even on the way there, you will be astonished by the spectacular views. We have been to many mountainous countries before Georgia and still, we were amazed by the Svaneti region. The whole way up to the mountains was like driving through a fairytale.
Mestia – 3 Days
Mestia is the self-proclaimed capital of the Svanteni Region and is the most known city/village to foreign visitors. Unlike many little villages around, Mestia is quite touristy and full of cafes, hotels etc. And, there are few great hikes starting in Mestia, which include, Koruldi lakes and Chaladi glacier. If you don't want to take a more than a one-day hike, you can use Mestia as your base and take several shorter day trips and hikes. We did that and visited several villages and did a couple of treks from there.
Watch our video hiking guide and Mestia to Ushguli route for more information:
Ushguli – Daytrip from Mestia
Ushguli is the highest permanently inhabited village in Europe and UNESCO world heritage site. Although it is located only 50km from Mestia, the ride there takes about 2 hours because of the bumpy road. We suggest to go to Ushguli early in the morning, explore the village and go back to Mestia in the evening. If you are lucky enough and the weather clear, you can see the Shkhara which is one of the highest Caucasian summits. Take a few hours hike and brace yourself (and your camera) for brilliant views! If you want to know more about the hike and get some photo information to have a look at this Ushguli Guide by a fellow traveler!
Mazeri – Daytrip from Mestia
Another way how to spend a day in Svaneti is to take a hike to Ushba glacier. To do that, you need to take a minibus to Mazeri from Mestia. You can hire a private driver or go with a group of people. From Mazeri village the hike takes 9 hours both ways. On the way, you will probably meet the border police but don't be afraid, they will tell you that you should be down by the dark. Remember to be down by the dark, though! We can guarantee some more great shots on the way up if you are into photography like we are!
How to Get Around Georgia
To plan your Georgia Travel Itinerary it is important to know the means of transportation. Getting around Georgia is a very easy and very interesting experience. The most expensive choice is taking a train, which we recommend if you have a certain amount of days in Georgia. To get the real Georgian experience marshrutka is the word you should remember. It is a minibus which goes from one place to another, sometimes it follows a schedule while other times only when it is almost full. Unlike some more expensive countries, taking a taxi is also a good idea in Georgia.
Basically, prices vary depending on your negotiation skills. But, trust us, the prices are not high. Additionally, if you are up for an adventure most likely your driver will take you to his cousin's wife's brother grandmother to taste some wine or chacha and let you stay a night there. That's how far Georgian hospitality extends!
Where to Stay
It is very easy to travel around Georgia on a budget. This is also true when it comes to choosing accommodation. As mentioned above, if you feel adventurous it is easy to get you a place to stay even if you just walk-in to a hotel or a guest house. However, if you are a crazy planner, as we are, book your place in advance! There are endless accommodation options in Georgia for every budget. Most of the accommodations are run by locals and built in a traditional Georgian style, we recommend opting for those!
Is Georgia Safe to Travel to?
This probably is one of the most common questions we get asked when it comes to travel in Georgia. The question is not about putting together the perfect Georgia travel itinerary but rather is it safe to travel in Georgia. Drumroll please, the answer is YES. Georgia is extremely safe and Georgians are very warm-hearted and welcoming! However, you have to be cautious when walking around big cities in the night. We have covered travel safety in Georgia extensively in a video on our Youtube channel where we talk about our experiences and what you need to know before going to Georgia.
As Georgia is so gorgeous country, Linda came up with a new name for it – Gorgia! And it is not because she couldn't pronounce Georgia's name correctly, the country really is just stunning and amazes you by each and every view! If Georgia wasn't on your bucket list, we hope after reading this Georgia Travel Itinerary it will get there ASAP! We haven't been to such a diverse country with mountains, seaside and rich history so close to Europe, while very affordable! Perhaps you need to try something new and plan a budget trip to Georgia?


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Happy Halloween! Who is ready for another exciting week of Homeschooling on the Cheap? We had some great ideas shared last week. Great for helping you plan some great homeschool activities. It's so much fun to see what great ideas you all bring and share each week. Last week we saw some fun crafts, great math activities and more!
This week bring all of your new homeschool ideas and share below. We love all of the great ideas you've shared in the past, so keep them coming. New lesson plans for practicing reading, science, history? Some new and fun crafts? Share them all below. Maybe you will be featured next week as one of the top visited links.
Be sure to share this post on facebook and twitter so more Homeschooling Parents will come and share their great ideas too. We love to see new people sharing each week! Now to this week's Homeschooling on the Cheap!
Here are the 4 most visited links from last week:
1) Learning Ideas Grades K-8 shared Spider Addition with Doubles Matching.
2) Coffee with Us 3 showed us their Scavenger Hunt Book.
3) Teach Beside Me shared a great Math Grid Game.
4) Kay's Little Corner shared a Homework App called MyHomework.
Homeschooling on the Cheap is a weekly round-up of some great homeschooling articles from around the web. Please share by uploading your best post each week dealing with homeschooling. Be sure to let your friends know so we can have even more great ideas each week!
For all the ways to get the best homeschooling deals, be sure to visit the homeschooling category at 3Boysandaog!
You may include anything that falls into Homeschooling on the Cheap category. Examples:
- Free printables
- Game ideas
- Homeschooling Articles
- Frugality in your Homeschool
- Classroom Organization
- etc. Link it up and be sure to visit some of the other linked posts.
Please note: Linking to this round-up means that you agree to be contacted weekly with a short reminder to link up. I will never sell, trade, or giveaway your email. Will only use it to send the email reminder each week when this new weekly round up goes live! I also means that you agree I can use your image in other rounds ups in the future with a link back to your site.


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The guild competition is an annual competition for members. Competition has two categories: A case-bound book & The Complete Book. Both categories have the same theme / book the title of which is committee decision. The text will be available early in the calendar year, we keep the cost as low as possible.
Entries are due in late November and judging results are announced at the annual Christmas party. All books will be on display at this time.
BASIC REQUIREMENTS FOR A Case Bound Book / The Complete Book (below)
These criteria apply to a case-bound book, covered with cloth or paper and sewn on tapes with tipped on endpapers.
The grain in all the components should be vertical.
The method of sewing and the thickness of the thread should be selected to give a 1020% swell.
The number of tapes should be appropriate to the physical properties of the book. The bigger the book, the more tapes. Several narrow tapes are better than a few wide ones.
The sewing should have a unifom, firm tension and the kettle stitches should not be too tight or too loose.
If the threads are joined inside the section, the ends should be trimmed to 4-5mm and frayed.
Spine linings should be strong enough to support the spine, but not so thick that the book will not open freely.
The book should be comfortable to handle – no sharp edges or corners
All parts of the book should be colour coordinated; cover, endpapers, headbands and text paper. White endpapers do not look good with off-white or cream text paper.
The endpapers should be the right weight; a large book needs heavier endpapers than a small one and they should always be heavier than the text paper.
The boards should be quite flat and fit the block. They should be the right weight for the block.
The boards should open horizontally without disturbing the flyleaves.
The book should open easily and lie comfortably on a flat surface.
The spine should be a uniform width and curvature from head to tail.
If stuck-on headbands are used, they should pass exactly from shoulder to shoulder and the embroidered part should lie on the head or tail of the block. The tape should not be visible.
When the boards are open, the book should stand on them vertically.
The squares should be appropriate sizes; large book, larger squares than for a small book.
The edges of the text should be smooth and clean with no guillotining marks.
If the block is backed, backing should start in the middle and be the same on both sides.
If the tapes and scrim show under the pastedown, they should be neat, straight, and of uniform length.
The turn-ins should be a uniform width.
In a cloth binding, the corner turnins should overlap by 3mm, at 45º to the board edges and should be neat.
Paper bound boards should have the corners reinforced with a tiny cloth corner or vellum to prevent wear.
There should be no wrinkles or bubbles in the pastedowns.
The pastedowns should be trimmed to equal squares all round.
Category : The Complete Book
The content will be the same for both categories and the binding should be designed and executed by the entrant. Entries need not be in codex format. Entries will be judged on the quality of the concept and design; the content of the book; the binding; craft skills; and use of materials.


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Pick up from any hotel in downtown San Jose to the airport, the service is private transportation, we recommend leaving three hours before the time of your flight.
usually the traffic in the city takes a lot of time, we request to be in time already ready in the lobby of your hotel, our driver will take a sign with your name
We pick up at the Hotel with a sign with your name. Our drivers are identified with Pin and Shuttle shirts. They're also hand-picked and locally knowledgeable, so feel free to ask them for tips or advice on what to do during your stay. After your arrival on Costa Rica one of our friendly greeters will meet you immediately just outside of customs with a personalized name sign with your group or individual name on it.
All our drivers are trained as drivers, our vehicles are comfortable, with air conditioning and a luggage area, we collect it at the requested time, we are constantly monitoring the status of your flight to see delays, our vehicles have GPS, WIFI, Water, wet towels and alcohol gel for hands


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December 2018 - last edited January 2019 by crinrict
Product: The Sims 4
Which language are you playing the game in? English
How often does the bug occur? Every time (100%)
What is your current game version number? 18.104.22.1680
What expansions, game packs, and stuff packs do you have installed? Everything except Vampires
Steps: How can we find the bug ourselves? I noticed the Bug first on 12/18 with the Actor Career from the Get Famous Expansion. I first noticed this on a Saved game and then have been testing it out on completely randomized and brand new game Sims. No Mods or CC. What happens is - After choosing the Actor Career, the Talent agency, and the First gig - which is the music player. I buy a guitar and start to practice and try to Guitar skill up to level 2+ The skill increases and reaches level two as expected, the bubble pops and it says that I skilled up over the Sim.
What happens when the bug occurs? The Bug is that the career progression tab where it shows the need to increase the guitar skill and the game scripting itself does NOT mark the guitar skill as having increased. Then the first gig the sim plays fails because the Guitar skill did not register as increasing.
What do you expect to see? The Skill increases. The Career progression acknowledges that the skill increased. The game acknowledges that the skill increased. And you actually start passing the Gigs.
Have you installed any customization with the game, e.g. Custom Content or Mods? Not now. I've removed them.
Did this issue appear after a specific patch or change you made to your system? Neutral/Not Sure
I have done the following things in testing the bug and started fresh games each time without CC or Mods.
Followed the Forum steps to delete Cache files and the SIMS4 files relating to the Get Famous Expansion
1a. Reinstalled Get Famous expansion and repaired Game Files.
Retested and confirmed bug exists.
2. Uninstalled the game through Windows and then deleted remaining game files.
2a. Reinstalled the entire game through Origin. Updated Game
Retested and confirmed bug exists.
3. Logged in on another PC today 12/21 - Updated latest files through Origin. Retested - Confirmed Bug
December 2018
Happy Gaming
I don't work or have any association with EA. I give advice to the best of my knowledge and cannot be held responsible for any damage done to your computer/game.
Please only contact me via PM when asked to do so.
Important Threads
February 2019
I'm having the exact same issue with a sim in the stylist carreer, her skills increase but are not registered by the job. The only way I found to circumvent it is by closing the game and booting it up again every time she gains a skill level.
February 2019
June 2019
I have the same. Solution ?
December - last edited December
@Chinegirl1996 For which career do you get the issue ?
There's a newer thread here: https://answers.ea.com/t5/Bug-Reports/NEEDS-INPUT-Style-Influencer-Skill-level-not-Properly-recogniz... but it seems to be a display issue mainly
Happy Gaming
I don't work or have any association with EA. I give advice to the best of my knowledge and cannot be held responsible for any damage done to your computer/game.
Please only contact me via PM when asked to do so.
Important Threads
@crinrict actor, but it's not exactly the same problem. The skill increrase and it's note. But when i go on another tray, it's disapears...


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Any priest who encouraged their congregation to take a punt on the ponies would probably not be surprised to be summoned to see their bishop. Gambling has probably rightly been seen as difficult to reconcile with Christian discipleship. It's forever associated in the Christian imagination with the game of dice that determined which of the soldiers that had brutally executed Jesus would get to keep the shirt off his back. Gambling is associated too with the frivolous waste of resources – the opposite of good stewardship – and with greed and vice. Games of chance seem at odds with a somewhat more deterministic Christian worldview. Letting things turn on the roll of a dice appears the inverse of seeking to learn the will of God.
And yet at the very beginning of the Church's life we see a pretty major decision being made on the basis of a game of chance. Choosing the successor of Judas was settled by the casting of lots (aka cleromancy [sorry I love jargon]) according to the book of Acts.
It's not the only time it features in the Bible when people are trying to hear from God or in the next case, the gods. In the story of Jonah, the stormblown sailors work out who the 'Jonah' is by casting lots. According to some writers on t'internet there are 70 references to 'lots' in the Hebrew Scriptures and a handful in the New Testament. That may be right or it might not. To be honest I can't be bothered to trawl through and check it out. Maybe I should cast my urim and thummim to find out…
Thinking about the choosing of Matthias over Justus led me to wonder about the role of chance in the process of discernment.
If you're a reasonably regular reader of this blog then you'll probably have been wondering if there was ever going to be anything new on here anytime soon. But leaving that aside you probably also know that I'm in the process of writing my MA disssertation at present. It's on the subject of discernment in pioneer ministry. This is no pure 'academic' exercise for me. There are some really puzzling questions facing my colleague and I and the churches and communities we serve. Finding out what shape is taken here by the 'thy will' that we want to 'be done' in Somerstown as in heaven is very much on our agenda. I'll say more in coming posts about what we might mean by God's will and how we engage with it. For now let it suffice to say that I don't think it's as simple as working out what God wants and then just getting on with it.
Thinking about casting lots came about as I puzzled over how to help my little mission community – the congregation formerly known as St Luke's – into taking part in and responsibility for discerning a way foward for our 'Sunday Sanctuary' endeavour as we went away together for the first weekend in March. I was taking a trawl through the book of Acts looking at occasions when the Church in mission engaged in a process of discernment as its members wrestled with questions of direction. And this choice – who should replace Judas as one of 'the Twelve' – was the first that we looked at. At our weekend away, I suggested four features of that process that might help us in facing the questions that lay before us. I've since thought of a fifth. So starting with that new thought, here are five features of the discernment process that I discern in Acts 1.12-26.
This is pretty much the first decision that the band of Jesus' disciples had to make following the ascension of Jesus. Here for the first time they're on their own. They're not simply following where they're led anymore. The responsibility lies with them. I think that's significant. It's not simply a matter of seeing where Jesus is off to next and tagging along. It calls for a degree of maturity, independence even. I don't mean that they are no longer dependent on Christ. But their relationship has changed. He is simply not physically there any more. The disciples have to come to terms hwith his abscence. His promised presence comes to them through the gift of the Holy Spirit. In terms of the Acts account, the fullness of the Spirit is yet to come at this point. They're not quite on their own. But they're not just followers any more either. It's down to them. They have to grow up.
But as much as they have to grow up from their dependence on Jesus' constant physical presence and direction, they are absolutely grounded in prayer. They don't approach this question cold, their response comes out of their prayer. According to the writer of Acts they are 'constantly devoting themselves to prayer'. I think this isn't so much about just becoming empty vessels through which the Holy Spirit can speak. Prayer is the means by which they continue to be formed as disciples; to become themselves; to grow up into the people God is calling them to be.
Judas was a pretty bad egg. At least that's what the writer of this text wants us to think. None of this hanging himself after being overcome with remorse as in Matthew. (Take note anyone who wants to deny that the Bible has errors or contradictions.) In contrast to Matthew's account, the Acts writer depicts a smug Judas getting his come-uppance. God gets 'medieval on his ass'. Anyway none of that is really the point! The point is that despite having had a really bad experience with one of the Twelve (whom incidentally, Jesus chose), they don't think: 'well, eleven apostles is enough'. It doesn't even occur to them that there should be fewer than twelve. The deep sacramental significance of the number is not a matter of small importance for them. It was what they had received from their Lord and it echoed the symbolic division of tribes in their own sacred history. There was no question for them but that their should be a twelfth apostle.
I suppose this is very much linked to the first point, so maybe that wasn't such a new point after all. But it comes from a different part of this story of discernment. There are about 120 people together at the point of making this choice. Some of these will have joined the growing (and, on occasion, shrinking) band of disciples at different points in Jesus' ministry. But the original Twelve were chosen from a bigger band of followers who had been there from the start: Jesus' baptism. So I think it's unlikely that the two names were the only two possible names that could have been put forward at this point. This group have taken responsibility and narrowed down the options. From a larger field of candidates they have got it down to two between whom they cannot choose. They've got two good options. If there was only one obvious choice, they wouldn't have needed the next step. It would have been settled by default. But the writer wants us to see that the unsuccesful candidate was a jolly good egg. Joseph Barsabbas (son of Sabbas) has the latin nickname 'Justus' – meaning fair-minded.
This is the bit that is the most difficult for the modern mind to cope with. But when it came down to it, they left it to chance. They drew straws or threw dice or coloured stones. We don't know exactly how they 'cast lots' and it's a good thing that we don't. Otherwise we might have ritualised that particular action instead of being able to see the metaphorical possibilities. There is a place for chance, or happenstance if you prefer, in finding a way forward.
At the beginning of our weekend away we drew straws to see who would end up reading which Bible passage of the half a dozen or so we would be hearing over the course of the weekend. I suggested to people that if they got one of the Bible readings they might look for what God wanted to say to them through this particular reading. And to those who didn't get a reading, I made the invitation that they look for what God was wanting to say to them through not having a specific passage to look at.
Does that mean that I think God chose this particular reading (or lack of a reading) for them? I honestly don't know.
I suspect not.
I think it's more about the openness to hear from God that's important. I believe that God, by God's Spirit is gently calling, speaking, leading us all the time. That openness, if people achieved it, will have created the space for them to connect with the still small voice and so grow into what God has for them. Do you understand what I mean?
I guess I'd say the same about that group of disciples. Was Matthias the only right choice? Was there some flaw in Justus' character that meant he would have been a disaster? He surely couldn't have been worse than Jesus' personal choice: Judas. So maybe it doesn't matter. Maybe both men would have been an equally good choice but in the end there could be only one. So let chance happen and see what emerges.
But what both men had, I think, is character. They were formed through their experience of Jesus and their deep and constant engagement with God in prayer. In the end it was about the whole community being shaped by Christ together and then seeing what happened. As I've said before I think this is a more authentic way of reading the stories of Jesus himself. I don't think his ministry is about him following a minutely laid out plan. So that at every point he is hearing form his Father what to do next – turn left up ahead you'll meet a blind man, heal him; breathe in, Son, now breathe out – no I really think Jesus just wanders about and stuff happens because of who he is. Wherever he goes, there'll be a blind man or a troubled woman or a demoniac or a dead child. So maybe for us too, discernment is more about the formation of a Christlike character in us as individuals and communities. Making some choices ourselves using the brains what God has given us, then, taking a chance, letting stuff happen.