text:
@article {2424, title = {Effects of tree dieback on lake water acidity in the unmanaged catchment of Ple{\v s}n{\'e} Lake, Czech Republic}, journal = {Limnology and Oceanography}, volume = {64}, year = {2019}, pages = {1614{\textendash}1626}, doi = {10.1002/lno.11139}, author = {Jiri Kopacek and J. Ka{\v n}a and P. Porcal and Jaroslav Vrba and S.A. Norton} } @article {2237, title = {An experimental insight into extracellular phosphatases {\textendash} differential induction of cell-specific activity in green algae cultured under various phosphorus conditions}, journal = {Frontiers in Microbiology}, volume = {9}, year = {2018}, abstract = {
Extracellular phosphatase activity (PA) has been used as an overall indicator of P
depletion in lake phytoplankton. However, detailed insights into the mechanisms of
PA regulation are still limited, especially in the case of acid phosphatases. The novel
substrate ELF97 phosphate allows for tagging PA on single cells in an epifluorescence
microscope. This fluorescence-labeled enzyme activity (FLEA) assay enables for
autecological studies in natural phytoplankton and algal cultures. We combined the
FLEA assay with image analysis to measure cell-specific acid PA in two closely related
species of the genus Coccomyxa (Trebouxiophyceae, Chlorophyta) isolated from two
acidic lakes with distinct P availability. The strains were cultured in a mineral medium
supplied with organic (beta-glycerol phosphate) or inorganic (orthophosphate) P at
three concentrations. Both strains responded to experimental conditions in a similar
way, suggesting that acid extracellular phosphatases were regulated irrespectively of
the origin and history of the strains. We found an increase in cell-specific PA at low
P concentration and the cultures grown with organic P produced significantly higher
(ca. 10-fold) PA than those cultured with the same concentrations of inorganic P. The
cell-specific PA measured in the cultures grown with the lowest organic P concentration
roughly corresponded to those of the original Coccomyxa population from an acidic lake
with impaired P availability. The ability of Coccomyxa strains to produce extracellular
phosphatases, together with tolerance for both low pH and metals can be one of the
factors enabling the dominance of the genus in extreme conditions of acidic lakes. The
analysis of frequency distribution of the single-cell PA documented that simple visual
counting of {\textquoteleft}active{\textquoteright} (labeled) and {\textquoteleft}non-active{\textquoteright} (non-labeled) cells can lead to biased
conclusions regarding algal P status because the actual PA of the {\textquoteleft}active{\textquoteright} cells can
vary from negligible to very high values. The FLEA assay using image cytometry offers a
strong tool in plankton ecology for exploring P metabolism.
Isoetes lacustris (quillwort) is an aquatic macrophyte commonly dominating oligotrophic softwater lakes in Europe. Reproductive ecology of a relic population of quillwort based on spore germination was studied in an acidified mountain lake in the Czech Republic. In a four-year experiment, we recorded temperature-related temporal changes in micro- and macrospore germination and sporeling establishment in (i) natural in situ conditions in Cerne jezero lake and (ii) in the laboratory at various temperatures. Germination of both micro- and macrospores increased gradually over four consecutive growth seasons. Several annual cohorts of germinating macrospores born together in a sporangium indicate that spores remain viable for up to several years and the formation of a spore bank. Minimum temperature necessary for germination was lower for microspores (6 degrees C) than macrospores (12 degrees C) and this ensured the availability of spermatozoids for the fertilization of the long-living macrogamethophytes whenever they produced archegonia during growing season(s). Macrogametophyte development started between July and October and sporeling development always followed in the next or subsequent springs. Long germination and embryo development may limit reproduction in I. lacustris by making it sensitive to both episodic and chronic changes in the environment. The relatively high minimum temperature for macrospore germination may set general limits for the reproduction of I. lacustris in lakes, by constraining its distribution along latitudinal and altitudinal gradients, and to particular depths. The mean length of time when the temperature (\>= 12 degrees C) was high enough for the germination of I. lacustris in Cerne jezero lake was 119 days and occurred during the period June to September in 2004-2011.}, author = {Martina Ctvrtlikova and Petr Znachor and Jaroslav Vrba} } @article {ISI:000302671300006, title = {Effects of temperature on the phenology of germination of Isoetes echinospora}, howpublished = {PRESLIA}, volume = {84}, number = {1}, year = {2012}, month = {FEB}, pages = {141-153}, publisher = {CZECH BOTANICAL SOC}, type = {Article}, address = {BENATSKA 2, PRAHA 2 12801, CZECH REPUBLIC}, abstract = {Isoetes echinospora, a submerged aquatic quillwort, is native in northern latitudes and a rare glacial relict in mountain lakes in temperate Central Europe. A relic population of this quillwort in the Plesne jezero lake has recovered recently from a 30-year period of failure to reproduce caused by acidification. Early ontogenetic stages of the quillwort are considered to be the most vulnerable to environmental changes. Therefore, the objective of this study was to investigate the phenology of germination of I. echinospora. In a two-year experiment, we examined the time course of germination of micro- and macrospores and establishment of sporelings under (i) natural in situ conditions in the Plane jezero lake and (ii) at various temperatures (6-17 degrees C) in the laboratory. We developed a mathematical model that describes the temperature-specific temporal changes in the early ontogeny of I. echinospora. Our experiments clearly show that spores do not germinate at once but gradually over time if exposed to favourable temperatures. Generally, percentage germination tended to increase during the course of a season under most temperature regimes but was inhibited at the lowest temperature. With increasing temperature, microspores germinated earlier and more successfully than macrospores, as described by the model. Sporelings also developed faster at the higher temperature. However, the highest temperature used in the experiments (17 degrees C) desynchronized the phenology of germination in I. echinospora as it resulted in the two types of spore not being available for fertilization at the same time. Thus, climate change might affect interactions between temperature and the phenology of quillwort reproduction and threaten the survival of this species in Central Europe.}, keywords = {aquatic macrophyte, germination, ontogeny, quillwort, reproduction}, issn = {0032-7786}, author = {Martina Ctvrtlikova and Petr Znachor and Jiri Nedoma and Jaroslav Vrba} } @article {ISI:000292603900005, title = {Ecological implications of organic carbon dynamics in the traps of aquatic carnivorous Utricularia plants}, howpublished = {FUNCTIONAL PLANT BIOLOGY}, volume = {38}, number = {7}, year = {2011}, pages = {583-593}, publisher = {CSIRO PUBLISHING}, type = {Article}, address = {150 OXFORD ST, PO BOX 1139, COLLINGWOOD, VICTORIA 3066, AUSTRALIA}, abstract = {Rootless aquatic carnivorous Utricularia exude up to 25\% of their photosynthates into the trap lumen, which also harbours a complex microbial community thought to play a role in enhancing Utricularia nutrient acquisition. We investigated the composition of organic carbon in the trap fluid, its availability for microbial uptake, the influence of plant nutrient status and trap age on its biodegradability, and the composition of prokaryotic assemblages within the traps of three aquatic Utricularia species. Using ion chromatography and basal respiration rate measurements we confirmed that up to 30\% of total dissolved organic carbon in Utricularia trap fluid in oligotrophic conditions was easily biodegradable compounds commonly found in plant root exudates (mainly glucose, fructose and lactate). The proportion of these compounds and their microbial utilisation decreased with increasing mineral nutrient supply and trap age. Fluorescence in situ hybridisation analyses showed that microbial trap assemblages are dominated by alpha and beta Proteobacteria, and that the assemblage composition is affected by changes in the ambient mineral nutrient supply. We suggest that organic carbon dynamics within the traps, involving both the plant and associated microbial assemblages, underlies the acquisition of key nutrients by Utricularia and may help explain the evolutionary success of the genus.}, keywords = {amino acids, biodegradability, exudate composition, nutrient availability, organic acids, plant-microbe interactions, sugars}, issn = {1445-4408}, doi = {10.1071/FP11023}, author = {Dagmara Sirova and J Borovec and Tomas Picek and Lubomir Adamec and Linda Nedbalova and Jaroslav Vrba} } @article {ISI:000274743500014, title = {Enzyme production in the traps of aquatic Utricularia species}, howpublished = {BIOLOGIA}, volume = {65}, number = {2}, year = {2010}, month = {APR}, pages = {273-278}, publisher = {VERSITA}, type = {Article}, address = {SOLIPSKA 14A-1, 02-482 WARSAW, POLAND}, abstract = {We studied the influence of habitat and increased mineral phosphorus and nitrogen loading on the extracellular activity of five selected hydrolases and pH in the trap fluid of the aquatic carnivorous plants, Utricularia vulgaris, U. australis, and U. foliosa (Lentibulariaceae). Enzyme activities in the trap fluid were determined using fluorometry. Phosphatase exhibited the highest activities in the traps of the European species as well as field-grown tropical U. foliosa. Trap enzyme production appeared to be uninfluenced by elevated dissolved mineral N or P concentrations both in the trap and ambient environment and thus, it seems to be constitutive. Enzyme activity in the trap fluid was determined by species and environmental conditions and varied significantly among sites within a single species. Trap fluid pH was between 4.2-5.1 in U. vulgaris and U. australis but between 5.7-7.3 in U. foliosa and seems to be regulated by the traps.}, keywords = {aminopeptidase, aquatic carnivorous plants, extracellular enzyme activity, growth experiment, nutrient enrichment, phosphatase, trap fluid pH}, issn = {0006-3088}, doi = {10.2478/s11756-010-0002-1}, author = {Lubomir Adamec and Dagmara Sirova and Jaroslav Vrba and Eliska Rejmankova} } @article {ISI:000273415100006, title = {Effect of Food Quantity and Quality on Population Growth Rate and Digestive Activity in the Euryhaline Rotifer Brachionus plicatilis MULLER}, howpublished = {INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF HYDROBIOLOGY}, volume = {94}, number = {6}, year = {2009}, pages = {706-719}, publisher = {WILEY-V C H VERLAG GMBH}, type = {Article}, address = {PO BOX 10 11 61, D-69451 WEINHEIM, GERMANY}, abstract = {We investigated the nutritional effects of both food quantity and quality on Brachionus plicatilis. Decomposition of particulate and dissolved organic matter by rotifer digestive enzymes play a crucial role in rotifer nutrition. Among other enzymes, rotifers produce phosphatases, non-specific enzymes that allow for the release of orthophosphate from a variety of organic phosphorus compounds. Phosphatase saturation was measured in B. plicatilis homogenates using the spectrofluorimetric method. We examined population growth rate, reproduction and phosphatase activity in the homogenate of rotifers (PA(RH)) fed by nutrient-replete algal food supplied at different quantities. Population growth rate, number of eggs per individual and PA(RH) were affected by food quantity. Growth rate and number of eggs per individual significantly increased in rotifers fed by food supplied at the highest quantity. The highest population growth rate was reached by rotifers fed by nutrient-replete food, while it did not significantly differ between rotifers fed on nitrogen (N)-depleted and phosphorus (P)-depleted food. The number of eggs per individual was more affected by N than P supply. PA(RH) and rotifer RNA content were not influenced by different food quality. The results indicate that B. plicatilis is not able to regulate its digestive apparatus in terms of efficiently getting access to essential nutrients when scarce, but do this when nutrient-replete food is available in different quantity.}, keywords = {nitrogen limitation, phosphatase activity, phosphorus limitation, reproduction}, issn = {1434-2944}, doi = {10.1002/iroh.200811138}, author = {Martina Strojsova and Suga, Koushirou and Hagiwara, Atsushi and Jaroslav Vrba} } @article {2307, title = {The effects of aluminium toxicity and low pH on the early development of Isoetes echinospora}, journal = {Preslia}, volume = {81}, year = {2009}, month = {2009/06}, pages = {135 - 149}, abstract = {
A relict population of Isoetes echinospora Durieu survived a thirty-year period of severe acidification and high concentrations of phytotoxic aluminium (Al) in Plesne Lake (Bohemian Forest, Czech Republic). The population consisted of only adult plants. Sporeling Survival and age structure were examined during the population recovery in 2004-2008. Laboratory experiments I were conducted to assess the effect of various pH values (4-8) and Al concentrations (0-1000 mu g.l(-1)) on sporeling development. The responses of the sporelings to the experimental treatments were evaluated and compared with those observed in the lake. The experiments showed that in Al concentration higher than 300 mu g.l(-1), and high acidity (pH 4), inhibit sporeling growth, in particular resulted in a pronounced reduction in absorptive organs (macrogametophyte rhizoids, roots and root hairs). With increasing concentrations of Al and at pH 4, the ratio of the below-ground to above-ground sporeling biomass decreased to less than 1. The responses of the lake sporelings, routing in the upper sediment layer, were similar to those exposed to 100-300 mu g.l(-1) of Al in the laboratory, and reflected the Al toxicity of the lake water. The quillworts at Plesne Lake survived because adult plants can tolerate these adverse conditions and are very long-lived. The population recovered when the pH of the water increased to over 5 and the Al concentration decreased to below 300 mu g.l(-1).}, keywords = {acidification, demography, Isoetes echinospora, quillwort, recovery, reproduction, sporeling}, author = {Martina Ctvrtlikova and Jaroslav Vrba and Petr Znachor and Petr Hekera} } @article {2306, title = {Extracellular phosphatases produced by phytoplankton and other sources in shallow eutrophic lakes (Wuhan, China): taxon-specific versus bulk activity}, journal = {Limnology}, volume = {10}, year = {2009}, month = {2009/08}, pages = {95 - 104}, abstract = {
Extracellular phosphatases are an important part of the phosphorus cycle in aquatic environments. Phosphatase activity (PA) in plankton was studied in seven subtropical shallow lakes of different exploitation management and trophic status in the urban area of Wuhan City. Bulk PA was rather high (range 1.1-11 mu mol l(-1) h(-1)), although concentrations of soluble reactive phosphorus (SRP) were also high (range 27 mu g P l(-1) to similar to 1.5 mg P l(-1)) in all lakes. Cell-associated extracellular PA in phytoplankton was detected using the fluorescence-labelled enzyme activity technique. Phytoplankton species partly contributed to the bulk PA. We found explicit differences in the presence of cell-associated phosphatase within the main phytoplankton groups; species belonging to Chlorophyta and Dinophyta were regularly phosphatase-positive, while Cyanophyta and Bacillariophyceae were phosphatase-negative in all but one case. Furthermore, there is a certain potential of extracellular phosphatases produced by heterotrophic nanoflagellates in most of the lakes. This new finding compromises the {\textquoteleft}traditional{\textquoteright} interpretation of bulk phosphatase data as being due to overall phytoplankton or bacterial P regeneration.}, keywords = {Algae, ELF97 phosphate, Heterotrophic flagellates, Phosphorus regeneration, Polymictic lakes, Protozoa}, author = {Cao, X. Y. and Song, Chunlei and Zhou, Yiyong and Alena Strojsova and Petr Znachor and Zapomelova, Eliska and Jaroslav Vrba} } @article {SirovaVrbaEtAl_2006, title = {Extracellular enzyme activities in benthic cyanobacterial mats: comparison between nutrient-enriched and control sites in marshes of northern Belize}, journal = {Aquatic Microbial Ecology}, volume = {44}, number = {1}, year = {2006}, month = {aug}, pages = {11{\textendash}20}, abstract = {Cyanobacterial mats, an important component of the oligotrophic alkaline wetland ecosystems of the Caribbean, are sensitive to nutrient enrichment. In order to elucidate their role in nutrient cycling, we measured extracellular enzyme activities in cyanobacterial mats and underlying sediment exposed to a long-term effect of different salinities and nutrient enrichment. Activities of alkaline phosphatase, leucine-aminopeptidase, arylsulphatase, and beta-glucosidase were measured fluorometrically. The distribution of phosphatase activity among different groups of microorganisms in the vertical structure of the mat was visualized using ELF (R) 97 phosphate. The activity of all enzymes, except arylsulphatase, was localized mainly in the mat itself and was several times higher than in the underlying sediment. Phosphatase always exhibited the highest activity, followed by leucine-aminopeptidase, arylsulphatase and beta-glucosidase. Phosphatase activity was significantly suppressed in P-addition plots under all salinity levels. The remaining enzymes were not significantly influenced by nutrient addition. Cyanobacteria, which formed most of the mat biomass, exhibited no phosphatase activity, with the exception of Chroococcus spp. Hence, we presume that the main sources of extracellular enzymes are different species of bacteria distributed in the mat and the mucilaginous sheaths of cyanobacteria. Sediment type, rather than salinity, seems to have an important influence on the extracellular enzyme production strategies.}, author = {D. Sirova and Jaroslav Vrba and Eliska Rejmankova} } @article {MindlSonntagEtAl_2005, title = {Effects of phosphorus loading on interactions of algae and bacteria: reinvestigation of the {\textquoteright}phytoplankton-bacteria paradox{\textquoteright} in a continuous cultivation system}, journal = {Aquatic Microbial Ecology}, volume = {38}, number = {3}, year = {2005}, pages = {203-213}, abstract = {The effect of different phosphorus loads (L-p) on the phosphorus (P) and carbon (C) content (biomass) of algae and bacteria was assessed in continuous culture. We tested if a mixed freshwater microbial assemblage co-cultured with a phytoflagellate (Cryptomonas phaseolus) would comply with the {\textquoteright}phytoplankton-bacteria pdradox{\textquoteright} (sensu Bratbak \& Thingstad 1985). This hypothesis states that the ratio of bacterial to algal abundance changes to the benefit of bacteria with decreasing L-p. However, the phenomenon was originally investigated by simultaneously altering Lp and microbial growth rates, and it is unclear to which extent it can be assigned to either parameter. Therefore, we set up 3 chemostat systems in triplicate at equal dilution rates, but with daily Lp of 21, 41 or 62 mu g l(-1) d(-1) (corresponding to 50, 100 and 150 mu g P l(-1)), Higher L-p led to a 5-fold increase in total algal abundance and biomass but to less than a doubling of these parameters in the bacterial assemblage. Total biomass ratios of bacteria to algae changed from 0.18 to 0.06 with increasing L-p, while the bacteria-algae total phosphorus ratios decreased from 0.80 to 0.17. The cellular C:P ratio of algae remained similar at all P concentrations, whereas the molar C:P ratios of bacterial cells significantly increased at higher L-p (from 44 to 73). An enrichment experiment with the 50 mu g P l(-1) treatment demonstrated that bacteria at the lowest L-p were co-limited by P and C, and that increased P stimulated mainly the algal fraction. The phytoplankton-bacteria paradox at the level Of a mixed microbial assemblage is thus characterised by the following aspects: (1) bacteria profit from their high affinity to P and are better competitors at lower L-p; (2) although algae compete with bacteria for P, P-limited algae release extracellular C that stimulates growth of their bacterial competitors; (3) when bacteria depend on algae as their sole source of organic C, this provides a feedback mechanism by which algae limit the abundance of their competitors at higher L-p; (4) large oscillations in the bacteria-algae ratios at the lowest L-p point to a greater instability of this interaction with stronger P competition. However, bacteria were not able to outcompete C. phaseolus, as algae were their only C source.}, author = {Mindl, B. and Sonntag, B. and Jakob Pernthaler and Jaroslav Vrba and Psenner, R. and Thomas Posch} } @article {StrojsovaVrbaEtAl_2005, title = {Extracellular phosphatase activity of freshwater phytoplankton exposed to different in situ phosphorus concentrations}, journal = {Marine and Freshwater Research}, volume = {56}, number = {4}, year = {2005}, pages = {417{\textendash}424}, abstract = {Extracellular phosphatase production and biomass change were investigated in phytoplankton species transplanted from the phosphorus-limited dam area of a eutrophic reservoir and exposed to the phosphorus-sufficient inflow part and vice versa. Extracellular phosphatase activity was studied using the enzyme-labelled fluorescence ( ELF) technique, allowing for direct microscopic detection of enzyme activity and, moreover, its quantification using image cytometry. Several phytoplankton species ( e. g. Anabaena planctonica, Microcystis aeruginosa, Fragilaria crotonensis, Ankyra ancora and Planktosphaeria gelatinosa) regulated phosphatase activity according to external phosphorus concentration. On the contrary, picocyanobacteria and several green algae (Coelastrum microporum, Crucigeniella sp., Pediastrum tetras, and Staurastrum planctonicum) did not produce extracellular phosphatases at all. The species-specific extracellular phosphatase activity of F. crotonensis, A. ancora, and P. gelatinosa ranged between 0.02 and 3.5 fmol mu m(-2) h(-1).}, author = {Alena Strojsova and Jaroslav Vrba and Jiri Nedoma and Karel {\v S}imek} } @article {SirovaAdamecEtAl_2003, title = {Enzymatic activities in traps of four aquatic species of the carnivorous genus Utricularia}, journal = {New Phytologist}, volume = {159}, number = {3}, year = {2003}, month = {sep}, pages = {669{\textendash}675}, abstract = {Here, enzymatic activity of five hydrolases was measured fluorometrically in the fluid collected from traps of four aquatic Utricularia species and in the water in which the plants were cultured. In empty traps, the highest activity was always exhibited by phosphatases (6.1-29.8 mumol l(-1) h(-1)) and beta-glucosidases (1.35-2.95 mumol l(-1) h(-1)), while the activities of alpha-glucosidases, beta-hexosaminidases and aminopeptidases were usually lower by one or two orders of magnitude. Two days after addition of prey (Chydorus sp.), all enzymatic activities in the traps noticeably decreased in Utricularia foliosa and U. australis but markedly increased in Utricularia vulgaris. Phosphatase activity in the empty traps was 2-18 times higher than that in the culture water at the same pH of 4.7, but activities of the other trap enzymes were usually higher in the water. Correlative analyses did not show any clear relationship between these activities. Trap comensals (Euglena ) could be partly responsible for production of some trap enzymes. The traps can produce phosphatases independently of catching prey. Taking into account the enzymatic activities in traps, phosphorus uptake from prey might be more important than that of nitrogen for the plants.}, author = {D. Sirova and Lubomir Adamec and Jaroslav Vrba} } @article {2310, title = {Element budgets in three Bohemian Forest lakes and their watersheds in the 2000 hydrological year: II. Cerne Lake}, journal = {Silva Gabreta}, volume = {6}, year = {2001}, note = {
Added to JabRef: 07.12.2009}, month = {2001}, pages = {53 - 72}, author = {Jiri Kopacek and Josef Hejzlar and Jiri Kana and Petr Porcal and Psenakova, P. and Jaroslav Vrba} } @article {VrbaKofronovaBobkovaEtAl_1997, title = {Extracellular, low-affinity beta-N-acetylglucosaminidases linked to the dynamics of diatoms and crustaceans in freshwater systems of different trophic degree}, journal = {Internationale Revue Der Gesamten Hydrobiologie}, volume = {82}, number = {2}, year = {1997}, pages = {277{\textendash}286}, abstract = {
Extracellular hydrolysis of 4-methylumbelliferyl beta-N-acetylglucosaminide was measured in the oligomesotrophic Piburger See and the eutrophic Rimov reservoir during spring and summer phytoplankton blooms. respectively. Total enzymatic activity (TEA) ranged between 0.2 and 19.1 nmol l(-1) h(-1) in the reservoir and between 0.8 and 12.4 nmol l(-1) h(-1) in the lake. High-affinity (K-m \< 1 mu mol l(-1)) and low-affinity (K-m \> 100 mu mol l(-1)) enzymes were kinetically identifiable in most samples from both localities. The low-affinity enzyme activity (LEA) usually accounted for \>60\% (mean: 80\%) of TEA. LEA and diatom biomass significantly correlated over time in the reservoir epilimnion (r(s) = 0.578) and in the lake metalimnion (r(s) = 0.862). As diatoms possess chitin and take up its monomer, N-acetylglucosamine, two explanations of the observed relationships are suggested: extracellular beta-N-acetylglucosaminidase activity partly originates either from ectoenzymes of chitinolytic bacteria attached to diatom cells or from ectoenzymes of diatoms, enabling them to take up N-acetylglucosamine from ambient amino sugars instead of synthesizing it de novo. A significant positive correlation of LEA with crustacean abundance was found in the lake epilimnion (r(s) = 0.850), apparently reflecting the growing spring populations of frequently moulting juvenile crustaceans. A possible contribution of chitinolytic bacteria, accompanying the crustacean populations, to LEA is discussed.}, author = {Jaroslav Vrba and Kofronova-Bobkova, J. and Jakob Pernthaler and Karel {\v S}imek and Macek, Miroslav and Psenner, R.} } @article {VrbaSimekEtAl_1996, title = {Evaluation of extracellular, high-affinity beta-N-acetylglucosaminidase measurements from freshwater lakes: An enzyme assay to estimate protistan grazing on bacteria and picocyanobacteria}, journal = {Microbial Ecology}, volume = {32}, number = {1}, year = {1996}, month = {jul}, pages = {81{\textendash}99}, abstract = {Protistan community grazing rates upon both bacterioplankton and autotrophic picoplankton were estimated using fluorescently-labeled prey and by measurement of extracellular hydrolysis of 4-methylumbelliferyl (MUF) beta-N-acetylglucosaminide in a eutrophic reservoir and an oligo-mesotrophic lake during phytoplankton blooms. In addition, enzyme methods were optimized in bacterivorous flagellate cultures by two enzyme assays, based on fluorometric detection of protistan digestive activity, which were compared and calibrated independently against flagellate bacterivory. Enzymatic hydrolyses of MUF beta-N,N{\textquoteright},N {\textquoteright}{\textquoteright}-triacetylchitotriose and MUF beta-N-acetylglucosaminide were measured in cell-free (sonicated) and whole-cell (unsonicated) samples. The hydrolysis of both substrates, using the whole-cell enzyme assay at in situ pH, was correlated significantly with total grazing rate of Bodo saltans. Thus the whole-cell enzyme assay with MUF beta-N-acetylglucosaminide was used for freshwater samples. High-affinity (K-m < 1 mu mol l(-1)) and low-affinity (K-m > 100 mu mol l(-1)) enzymes were distinguished kinetically in most samples from both systems studied. Activities (V-max) of the high-affinity enzyme varied from 0.24 to 1.43 nmol l(-1) h(-1). Protistan community grazing on bacterioplankton was in the range of 0.15-1.36 mu g C l(-1) h(-1) both for lake and reservoir, the differences being observed in grazing on picocyanobacteria (lake, 0.03-0.22 mu g C l(-1) h(-1); reservoir, 0.35-1.56 mu g C l(-1) h(-1)). The enzyme activities were correlated significantly with the protistan grazing both on bacterioplakton (r(s) = 0.62, P < 0.001) and total procaryotic picoplankton (the sum of organic carbon grazed from bacteria and picocyanobacteria, r(s) = 0.73, P < 0.001) in the eutrophic reservoir. Weaker relationships (r(s) = 0.42) with a lower slope were found for the oligo-mesotrophic lake. Ingestion rate studies are time-consuming and the digestive enzyme assay with MUF beta-N-acetylglucosaminide presents a rapid alternative for estimating total protistan prokaryotic picoplanktivory in freshwaters.}, author = {Jaroslav Vrba and Karel {\v S}imek and Jakob Pernthaler and Psenner, R.} } @article {SIMEKVRBAEtAl_1994a, title = {Estimates of protozoan bacterivory: From microscopy to ectoenzyme assay?}, journal = {Marine Microbial Food Webs}, volume = {8}, year = {1994}, pages = {71{\textendash}85}, author = {Karel {\v S}imek and Jaroslav Vrba and Lavrentyev, P.} } @article {VRBAKOMARKOVAEtAl_1993, title = {Enhanced Activity of Alkaline-phosphatases - Phytoplankton Response To Epilimnetic Phosphorus Depletion}, journal = {Water Science and Technology}, volume = {28}, number = {6}, year = {1993}, pages = {15{\textendash}24}, abstract = {The stratified, eutrophic Rimov Reservoir (South Bohemia) receives a considerable input of phosphorus. However, phytoplankton development in the epilimnion has often been P-limited (<5 mug.l-1 of soluble reactive phosphorus) during spring and summer when algal maxima are observed. Alkaline phosphatase activity (APA) was measured in the epilimnion (0-2 m) using a fluorimetric method. The seasonal course of APA (range 6.7-726.7 nmol.l-1.h-1) roughly followed that of chlorophyll a (r2 = 0.45) in 1990. During algal blooms, a significant percentage of total APA was found in the 2.5-100 mum fraction containing most of the algae. Very similar relationships were found by a longitudinal sampling of the reservoir epilimnion during the spring phytoplankton bloom in 1991, despite high P concentrations in the reservoir{\textquoteright}s tributary. Hence, phytoplankton can be P-limited in the epilimnion, even in a eutrophic reservoir with a high input of P. This study shows that the phytoplankton community might adapt to phosphorus depletion by changing species composition and/or by increasing APA.}, author = {Jaroslav Vrba and J. Komarkova and Vyhnalek, V.} } @article {2302, title = {Effect of periodic illumination on nitrification in the continuous cultivation}, journal = {Archiv f{\"u}r Hydrobiologie Beihefte Ergebnisse der Limnologie}, volume = {34}, year = {1990}, pages = {145{\textendash}450}, author = {Jaroslav Vrba} }


text:
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subset: commoncrawl


text:
EPC stands for "engineering, procurement, and construction."
This industry represents a specific form of contracting, where the contractor is responsible for all aspects of design, procurement, construction, and commissioning. It may sometimes be referred to as "turnkey activities," which leads to this industry sometimes being referred to as the LSTK industry.
In that circumstance, LSTK would stand for "lump sum turn key."
The actual reference that is used for the industry depends upon the geographic location of those involved. The International Federation of Consulting Engineers recognizes the EPC term for the industry. The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia recognizes the LSTK designation, although most of the Middle East recognizes the EPC industry.
A third designation, EPCC, is recognized by Qatar and some other countries as well. The second "C" in the designation stands for "commissioning."
Important EPC Industry Statistics
#1. The value of the U.S. construction industry, as stated in a percentage of GDP, is 4.3%. (Statista)
#2. The total value of new private construction in the United States was $898.7 billion in the last reporting year. (Statista)
#3. Expenditures in the United States reached $1.2 trillion in the last reporting year, making it one of the largest construction markets in the world today. (Statista)
#4. Over 1.2 million new privately-owned houses were started as a project within the EPC industry in 2016. (Statista)
#5. The current value of local and state government non-residential construction in the United States is currently $251.4 billion. (Statista)
#6. 13% of global GDP values are related directly to construction spending. (McKinsey)
#7. To keep up with the rates of global GDP growth, about $57 trillion in infrastructure spending is required by 2030 to ensure the EPC industry is able to maintain itself. (McKinsey)
#8. If there was a 1% reduction in construction costs within the EPC industry, then it would funnel an extra $100 billion dollars of discretionary spending into the global economy. (World Economic Forum)
#9. More than 50% of construction and engineering professionals have reported at least one under-performing project within the past 12 months. (KPMG)
#10. Only 1 out of 4 EPC projects came within 10% of its original deadline within the past 36 months. Just 31% of these projects came within 10% of the budget given to it during the same time period. (KPMG)
#11. When there is a large project undertaken by the EPC industry, it averages taking 20% longer to finish than estimated. These projects are typically 80% over-budget as well. (McKinsey)
#12. 98% of the largest projects taken on by the EPC industry come in over-budget or delayed for some reason. 3 out of 4 of these "mega projects" are least 40% behind schedule right now. (McKinsey)
#13. Labor shortages are one of the primary reasons why delays and budget overages occur within the EPC industry. 80% of active firms are unable to find the skilled workers they need to finish a job. (Associated General Contractors of America)
#14. 56% of builders working within the EPC industry say that they are having problems because of the effects caused by the presence of labor shortages. (National Association of Home Builders)
#15. The EPC industry has one of the highest turnover rates in the United States at more than 21%. In 2016, there were over 200,000 unfilled positions within the industry. (Bureau of Labor Statistics)
#16. Almost 29% of workers within the EPC industry in the United States identify as being Hispanic or Latino. The average age of a worker within the industry is 42, which is a full year older than the average age of the U.S. workforce. (Bureau of Labor Statistics)
#17. From 2012-2015, there was a 16% increase in the number of fatalities reported from workplace incidents within the EPC industry. (Bureau of Labor Statistics)
#18. Over the last 20 years, there has been a 1% increase in the overall annual productivity achieved by the EPC industry in the United States. (McKinsey)
#19. Logistics impacts more than 50% of the issues that have a negative impact on the EPC industry. (Mechanical Contractors Association of America)
#20. 82% of firms in the EPC industry feel like they need more collaboration with their contractors to be successful. At the same time, 78% of EPC firms believed that the risks of projects are continuing to increase. (KPMG)
#21. About 30% of the initial data which is created during the initial design and construction phases of a new project is lost by the time the project reaches its closeout phase. (Emerson)
#22. 30% of the work that is performed within the EPC industry is actually rework that happened in previous projects. About 70% of this work is due to changes in design that occur over the course of a project. (CQI)
#23. Over $4 billion each year is lost in the United States because of poor document controls, which results in project rework. (City of Seattle)
#24. Engineering services generated $251 billion in revenues in 2017. Since 2013, the annual average rate of growth for this industry segment was 1.9%. (IBIS World)
#25. About 156,000 firms currently offer engineering services, which provides direct and indirect employment opportunities for about 1.2 million people. (IBIS World)
#26. Around half of all companies involved with the EPC industry report spending less than 1% of their budget on technology each year. According to McKinsey, that makes the EPC industry one of the least digitized industries in the world today. (JB Knowledge)
#27. About 60% of the firms actively engaged with the EPC industry are not investigating any new technologies this year as a way to improve their revenues or profits. (JB Knowledge)
#28. 2 out of every 5 firms within the EPC industry indicate that they haven't implemented new technologies because there is a lack of support within the industry. Budget concerns represent another 37% of industry resistance to new technologies. (JB Knowledge)
#29. More than 10% of the cost of an EPC project right now is labeled under an "other" category. When looking at these costs for the average cost of a new home in the United States, that means almost $20,000 is an unclassified cost. (National Association of Home Builders)
#30. Energy intensity within the EPC sector from a manufacturing standpoint has been steadily decreasing since 2010. From 2010-2014, the overall fuel intensity decreased by 4.4%, with real gross outputs rising at 9.6% at the same time. (U.S. Energy Information Administration)
#31. 17% of global engineering teams say that they are not using the EPC sector at all. In comparison, just 6% say that they use the EPC sector for all of their project. (NAE)
#32. Over 92% of EPC contractors say that they plan to increase their use of global virtual teaming as a way to encourage offshoring and cost-savings efforts within their organization. (NAE)
#33. 48% of EPC contractors say that their engineering costs have a major impact on their efforts to offshore a project, with a reduction of more than 10% in total costs. (NAE)
#34. 75% of EPC contractors say that offshoring a project has no impact on the construction cost of a project. 72% of contractors say that there is no impact to the quality of the work that is completed either. (NAE)
#35. Women, in general, earn about 81% of what men make in the United States. In the EPC industry, women earn about 96% of what men make. (Bureau of Labor Statistics)
#36. In 2016, there were about 939,000 women currently working in the construction sector in the United States. Women make up about 10% of the overall construction workforce in the EPC sector. (Bureau of Labor Statistics)
#37. 45% of women employed by the EPC industry are in a sales or office-based occupation. Another 31% of women are involved in professional development or management. Just 1.4% of women are employed in material moving, transportation, or production. (Bureau of Labor Statistics)
EPC Industry Trends and Analysis
The EPC industry has an impressive reputation for consistency. There is nothing to suggest that this reputation will change any time soon. There may not be industry growth experienced over the next 5-10 years. There may not be industry declines experienced either.
What is unique about the EPC industry is that it is large enough, covering engineering, procurement, and construction, that it tends to provide a cyclical offsetting experience. When construction revenues are rising, engineering and procurement revenues tend to be in decline. The opposite is generally true as well.
In 2016, total construction spending increased by 6.5% over the previous year. That reflects a pattern of growth where year-over-year comparisons found growth levels as high as 11% in 2014.
Unless there is a major disruption in the U.S. or global market, such as a change in tariff structures, expect this industry to continue performing as it has since 1980.
Although millions of people visit Brandon's blog each month, his path to success was not easy. Go here to read his incredible story, "From Disabled and $500k in Debt to a Pro Blogger with 5 Million Monthly Visitors." If you want to send Brandon a quick message, then visit his contact page here.


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"Anika Reynolds is asked to report at the Principal's cabin right now." I lifted my eyes from my notebook and looked at the clerk. Actually, I was waiting for the call.
I gave a sheepish smile as I collected my things and put them in my bag. Every pair of eyes were staring at me but none of them have shocked expression because I think they lost count of how many times the same scenario happened. To be honest, I think I spend more time in his office than in any one of my classes.
It was for different reasons every time. The first was when I accidentally threw the ball at my opposite teammate. There was one time when I toilet papered Mr.Robert's house who taught us physics with some seniors. There were a few pranks like putting itching powder on a teacher's dress, gifting cockroach to someone and also one time when I put glue on my partner's seat. Another thing which I have received a lot of detention slips were for bunking classes and there is many more of Anika's little troubles.
"You are so screwed," Tessa, my best friend muttered beside me.
"Thanks for stating the obvious." I rolled my eyes and walked out of the class.
This time it was going to be different because my parents are asked to come and the stunt I pulled is not something I can get away easily. I knocked on Mr. Martin's wooden door and when I heard 'Yes, come in' I pushed it open and entered.
"Morning, Anika." The principal greeted me with a smile. He was a good human being and he looks like a cute teddy bear.
I made myself comfortable in his chair as he went through some documents. "So, tell me what did the poor boy did to deserve to be at the end of your fist?" He asked with an amused smile.
"Poor boy, my foot. He is a bastard who doesn't know the meaning of 'back off'. He asked me out early in the morning when honestly I was in a bad mood," I yelled and Mr. Martin signed me to be silent.
"Last time I checked, it wasn't a crime to ask the girl you like for a date." He chuckled. The old man was a good human being and also did a mistake to approach me once when I was in the detention room. He was there to listen, unlike my parents who are in London.
"More like, he invited me to his bed."I scowled and he kept his hand under the chin as if he was thinking deeply.
"You know what, kid? You should have punched and kicked him," He said and that's why he is the best.
"I would have if not that Barbie doll didn't show up," I told thinking how Ms.Rose had appeared and yelled on top of her voice.
"She is a nice teacher, if you had at least spared to listen to her class then you would know but now it's good that she showed up," He said and checked his phone.
"So why didn't my parents come here today?" I asked even though I knew the answer perfectly.
"They couldn't make it. Your mom has a new project of a wedding and your dad is away on a business trip," He answered and I sighed.
They were never there for me. All that mattered to them was money and fame. Sometimes like any other child, I also craved for their love and care. My dad was okay but it is not his fault that the burden of his family business is on his shoulder because he is the only heir. Then there is my mom, no one will believe that there was a time when she used to braid my hair, tell stories, cook Indian food for me and tell me folktales, argue that Salman Khan is best when I am TeamSRK.
Shahrukh is the best, there is no doubt about it.
My mom, Asha was an Indian who was an ideal daughter to her parents. Then she met my dad James who came to India for business. They met on an occasion and fell in love. There were so many problems but I heard her parents had disowned her and dad took us to New York when I was five years old.
They have the most complicated marriage in the world. They both were from different nation, religion, background and culture. But somehow it worked until fame got into my mom's head. She started going out, mingling with people, chased her dreams and now happily living her except she forgot she has a daughter in her journey.
"So, what is this time? Detention for a week, imposition or ew don't tell me to clean the janitor's closet ever." I scrunched my nose at the last part. I don't even want to think about it the last time I was there.
"Well, this time since parents are involved you aren't going to get away easily, Anika. His parents are influential and as a principal, I have to do my job. You are going to be suspended for a week." He announced and my eyes widened. A suspension?
I mean I love to spend time with myself and it would be great to be on my couch whole day with chocolates, chocolate cake, chocolate shake, chocolate chips and Shahrukh Khan but no way my parents are going to welcome this with open arms.
"But I didn't do anything. He deserved it." I whined trying to bargain.
"Okay, for three days. No more no less. Now, go home." He ordered and I blew my cheeks out. "And don't forget to study and you know only your grades are holding you." I groaned and headed for the door.
The hallways were filled with students going to get their lunch so I followed their trail and headed for the door.
I filled my tray with fries and a burger along with the chocolate milkshake. I paid and made my way to where my friends were waiting for me. The lunch hour was always a busy time, well everyone is hungry.
"Hey Anika, how did it go?" Alex asked me even before I could take my seat. I glared at him but he is too cute with his blond mop of hair and dimples that it didn't last long.
"If getting suspended for three days doesn't count, then I'm pretty fine," I said and took a bite of my chicken burger.
Tessa shook her head in disapproval and I rolled my eyes at her. She was way too innocent and has always played by the rules. She is a shy girl who prefers her solitude and is the daddy in our squad.
"Congratulations girl, you passed next level." Alex winked and Tessa threw a fry at him but somehow he caught it with his mouth and munched on it.
Just before anyone of us could make a comment, the door opened and the click-clack of heels confirmed the arrival of the queen and her minions.
Andrea Thomas owned the title of queen for her amazing look and b*t*h for her attitude. I didn't have any problem with her but when I saw her bullying a sophomore girl, she became my favorite person from that day onwards. Please note my sarcasm.
"Did you hear the news?"
"Yeah, he is coming back."
"I need to change my hair color because I think he likes brunette better."
"He is so hot and handsome."
"Oh my god, I need a wardrobe change."
The comments and the squeals continued and I groaned. I turned to see Tessa's face a little pale and Alex glaring at Angela. My friend here and the queen sitting there had a bad past. They dated when they were juniors and broke up, even though I don't know why they did but I am glad they did. She is too much to hear all the time but I never missed the longing glances, eyes locks, zoning out and all that crappy stuff.
"Who is coming back?" I asked facing Tessa who was playing with her hair.
"It is -" Tessa couldn't complete because the bell rang signaling that it was time for everyone to go back to their class and for me to go home.
"See you guys after three days, don't have too much fun without me." I winked and walked to the bin to dump my tray.
"Like we are going to stay away. See you soon, Anika." Alex rolled his eyes and I stuck my tongue out at him childishly.
I hugged Tessa and left to the parking area where my red Lamborghini was. It was my favorite thing in the entire world, of course after chocolate. It stood out from the rest of the cars and I beamed looking at my baby. It was my eighteenth birthday gift technically it is not because I exchanged the jewelry my parents gifted to me for this. It wasn't like I was going to wear it someday.
I was about to enter when the yellow bulb in my head appeared. I smiled at the pink range rover parked beside me. It was Andrea's car and I snickered before puncturing the tires. Serves her right for stealing my book last week.
I started the car and the engined roared to life. I parked the car at the park and sat under the same tree where I used to find my peace years ago. A faded memory came into my mind when I listened to the bird's music.
It was the summer season, the most favorite time of kids and family. There was no school or work and everyone was free to do anything they like. A girl of nine years old was sitting under a tree as a book covered her face. The white frock she wore was now brown with mud and hair which was tied in a beautiful ponytail was now all over the place. She was shaking, her head lowered.
"Are you crying, Anika?" A boy with blue eyes with green flecks asked her as he kneeled in front of her.
"No, Anika Reynolds never cries." She sniffed and turned her face away.
"What happened? You can always talk to me," He said looking at her face with concern.
"Why would I do that? So you can spread it to everyone and make fun of me."
The boy shook his head and replied, "No, so I can save you from the trouble."
The chocolate brown eyes bore into blueish eyes and said, "Okay but Anika Reynolds never needs help." She stood up and walked out without even glancing in his way.
My lips curved up into a smile at the memory. I have always been a stubborn kid. I remember how I used to throw tantrums if I don't get what I wanted. Dad had spoiled me completely. I shook my head and stood up dusting my jeans.
I entered my car and was about to drive away when my phone started ringing from the front pocket. I groaned when I saw the caller ID. What does he want now?
"Hey, Anika," He greeted me from another side. It is not always he calls me unless he wants something from me.
"What do you want, Sid?" I asked not wanting to beat around the bush.
"Ouch, can't I call my little sister to know how she is doing?" He asked and I rolled my eyes.
"Whatever, so what's up? Don't dare to say it's ceiling or fan," I said taking a KitKat from the bag.
"It's actually sky. I am on my way to Domino's with Sahil," Sid said and my mind went to the picture of three of us fighting for the last slice.
Siddarth is the son of my mom's best friend who is an Indian. We have grown up together and he is three years older than me. He is like a brother and I'm always his little sister. Then there is my super boy, Sahil, Sid's younger brother. He is the cutest nine years old you will see. He can cheer up anyone's mood and is a fighter even after the terrible accident.
"Give the phone to my favorite boy, will you?" I asked removing the wrapper and smiling at the chocolate bar. I wouldn't trade anything for it.
"You are already talking to him," He said and I rolled my eyes. "Okay, stop rolling your eyes or maybe who knows it will go back and you will see that you don't have a brain," I swear if he was in front of me then I will punch him by now.
"I want to talk to Sahil." I whined and I heard a voice in the background.
"Hello Anika didi, I had to snatch the phone from him," Sahil said and I laughed.
"Hey munchkin, how was your day?" I asked with a smile.
"It was great but I miss you di. I wish you were here so you can scare Tina away," He mumbled.
"Who is Tina and what she did?" I asked thinking of all the times Sahil was bullied. After the accident, Sahil's legs were paralyzed and after the surgery took a year ago, he is finally walking with the help of the crutches. Everyone is hopeful that the little boy will be able to walk on his feet soon.
"Tina is my classmate, she took my crutches from me today and I was about to fall on the ground. Thankfully, there was Ryan who saved me. She mocks me all the time." Sahil complained and I felt bad for him.
"I will meet you soon on the weekend. Did you report it your teachers?" I asked with concern.
"No, I was scared," He replied and I sighed.
"Don't be scared of anyone. Report to your teacher tomorrow and if Tina teases you again, tell her your Anika didi will come," I told him and he chuckled.
"Where is your big brother?"
"He went to order for us. I will ask him to call you later and we miss you di. Come back soon, love you," Sahil said and I started my car in the direction to home.
"I love you too, munchkin." I hung up and smiled.
I drove to my home and headed for the door but not before glancing at the next door like I always did. I sighed seeing it was still dark like how it was from five years ago. Is it weird to say that I missed my enemy?
Finally, the update is here. I hope you all enjoyed it and I'm quite thrilled about this story. This is a humorous story with some scenes. I would love to know your feedback and sorry if there was any grammatical errors or spelling mistakes. Please don't forget to vote, comment and share the story. I love you all ♥
The question of the day,
Shahrukh Khan or Salman Khan?


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Podcast: Can smallholder-produced palm oil be sustainable?
This podcast, part of the BBC programme The Food Chain, explores initiatives that hope to change how palm oil is produced. It outlines some of the environmental and social issues associated with conventional palm oil production, and discusses a smallholder certification scheme in the Sabah region of Malaysian Borneo.
Listen to the podcast here. See also the Foodsource building block What is land use and land use change?
Add comment
Asia is Earth's largest and most populous continent. It hosts many densely populated and large cities as well as enormous barely populated regions, which all together host over half of the human population. Agriculture as a source of income is of major importance in the region. In most Asian countries, agriculture is the biggest user of water and in some regions can be responsible for to 90% of total water consumption through irrigation.


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2015 we are official artist in residence for kulturkontakt austria.
In 2013 we worked on several flashmobs together with the green party vienna.
Since 2012 we are active member of the independent moviemaker network kino 5.
2015 we were working together with youth in action in luxembourg.
2014 we made a musicvideo for pianodrum aka. christof moser
Since 2014 cooperating with university for
applied arts in vienna.
Since 2008 cooperating with university for
music and acting.
2015 Cooperating with Daniel Moshel
for MeTube2.
2015 We were shooting for the viennese greek dance assosiation a short film.
2015 we cooperated with mondscheinbazar.
2015 it led us to cooperate with the artununchored artist collective.
2015 we made a jingle for sultan cola.
Since 2014 working together with letter p on several projects.
2009 we took part in project pop organized songwriting workshops.
2016 musicvideo for the latvian symphony orchestra and conductor andris rasmanis
developping a comedy sequel supported by okto.tv


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Ford Ranger OE Roll Bar Quick Foot Kit
Product Description
This kit is specific to the Ford Ranger MK5 and allows the Ford supplied original equipment sports roll bar to be combined with the Roll N Lock roll top.
You can also use our OE style roll bar with this kit to mount onto the Roll N Lock.
The kit consists of four new sports bar feet and the associated fitting hardware required to combine the two together professionally.
As some Rangers already have the Ford sports bar fitted as standard, this kit provides a great solution to retain this sports bar which is otherwise discarded.


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Monroe Lending Library
October Activities
Children's Library
Saturday, October 13th 11 a.m., Storytime and Craft
Books are TRICK OR TREAT DANNY by Edith Kunhardt and THE BIGGEST PUMPKIN by Steven Kroll.
Craft - Owl Handprint.
Saturday, October 20th 11 a.m., Storytime
HAUNTED HOUSE by Jan Pienkowski and EVERYTIME AUTUMN COMES THE BEAR by Jim Arnosky
Adult Library
Wednesday, October 17th 7 p.m.
Needlecraft Group
Join us if you enjoy needlecrafts or wish to learn.
Monday, October 22nd 7 p.m.
Book Review Group
Book WATEER FOR ELEPHANTS by Sara Gruen
The Library is located at 231 Macready behind Monroe Primary School.
Library Hours:
Monday 6-8 p.m.
Wednesday 10-12 noon, 2 p.m.-8 p.m.
Saturday 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
Telephone 513-360-0714


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Elementary Schools
Elementary Schools (cont.)
Middle Schools
High Schools
Educational Services
3300 MO-109, Wildwood, MO 63038 | Phone (636) 733-4200 | Fax (636) 733-8834
All students will be valued and provided results-based instruction in the areas of Career, Academic, and Personal Social Development, through a comprehensive guidance program, as they acquire skills, abilities and attitudes that empower them to be lifelong contributing members of society.
Our guidance and counseling program includes:
Your counseling department will be issuing out a monthly newsletter that will help parents stay up to date with current events and information related to our department. The newsletter may detail dates for guest speakers, guidance lessons, counseling groups, student need data, articles related to mental health awareness and information to help get to know your counselors better. Please view or most current newsletter below!
The Counseling Connect: August 2020
The Counseling Connect: September 2020
Counselors may meet with students individually, in small groups or through lessons presented in class rooms. Students may arrange to consult with their counselor by notifying a teacher, administrator or the counselor directly.
Parents are encouraged to communicate directly with their child's teachers regarding questions or concerns about academic performance. Counselors may support this communication process and consult with parents and teachers about supportive strategies.
Counselors are assigned to teams. View the LSMS Faculty/Staff Directory.
You can see or talk to your student's counselor by email, phone, or by appointment. The counselor is available most days from 7:30 am to 2:30 pm from early August through late May. There are days when the counselor is not available due to previously scheduled appointments.
A student can fill out a request for the counselor to see him/her. The student should get a pass from a teacher to fill out the request or come to the guidance office before/after school or during lunch.
Two counselors are servicing students at LaSalle Springs Middle School. Please be patient as we work to get back to you as soon as possible. If you have an urgent concern, please contact a school administrator.
Parent University
Rockwood Guidance and Counseling


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Regretfully, there are many divisions between conservatives and libertarians, which is why this guide is so important for the future. The Republican Party cannot survive without us, so it is only fair to state libertarian ideals for the general public to witness.
Libertarians are pro-free trade, and believe that the only fair trade that should happen is born in the negotiation room. While this is up to either the government or individual corporations, the government should not impede trade between nations as a result of political discourse or any other conceivable reason. It is the company's decision to make deal or reject deals with potentially hostile countries.
Government Programs
As most libertarians have a textualist slant when interpreting the Constitution, many libertarians believe all government welfare programs should be cut back or completely cancelled as the Constitution never gives the government the power to run a welfare state. Yes, these cuts include Social Security (in particular welfare), Medicare, and Medicaid. However, there is no consensus as to how far these programs need to be cut back. Libertarians in my area of the spectrum would say that Medicaid needs to be reformed and Medicare and Social Security need to be privatized. There is no need for a Department of Energy or Education, so both of those departments can be cut. The budget should always be balanced, and the majority of the balancing can be done through cutting welfare programs. The government is responsible for building and maintaining roads.
Universal Healthcare
Government is getting involved in your life and is trying to give you a right to someone else's labor. Universe healthcare should not exist.
Gun Rights
Trending: The Conservative Answer to Reforming the Criminal Justice Sysytem
The Second Amendment exists to allow the people to protect themselves from a tyrannical government. Military style weapons should be allowed, as well as high capacity magazines. People should be allowed to carry weapons wherever they like, as long as they are legally allowed to do so. Violent felons should have their rights to own a firearm revoked as they have proven to be incompetent.
If an individual is not harming anyone else they should be allowed to do with they body whatever they so choose, within reason. Marijuana should be legalized, as there are many health benefits with fewer downsides than smoking (note that these downsides can vary from smoking). Methamphetamine is extremely dangerous and there is a general consensus that it should not be allowed.
LGBT Rights
As long as someone is not harming another individual they should be allowed to live as who they are, and love who they want. While this aspect of libertarianism is opposite of what many conservatives believe, it can be reconciled by looking through a small government lens. Why should the government care about who you sleep with? It should not.
Freedom of Speech
Unabated free speech, unless inciting a riot. There is no such thing as hate speech, as the parameters for hate speech are too broad and can be unfairly applied to different groups. Flag burning should be protected as it is a vocal manner of expressing disdain for a government, even if it makes the burner look disrespectful.
Abortion Rights
Many libertarians believe the government has no say over what a woman can and cannot do with her own body. While many libertarians are personally pro-life, politically they are pro-choice due to our personal beliefs.
Non-interventionist, a military must be maintained but should not be used unless the United States is attacked, and in the event of an attack, a declaration of war must be issued. Title 50 should not grant the President the power to universally launch strikes.
Libertarians are opposed to all domestic surveillance without a legitimate warrant. FISA warrants are often looked down upon due to how often they are issued.
Executive Power
The President should only use executive power when all other options have been exhausted.
The views expressed in this opinion article are solely those of their author and are not necessarily either shared or endorsed by EagleRising.com


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Dealing in securities while in possession of inside information is prohibited by the Corporations Act 2001 (the Act), even if the dealing may otherwise be permitted under this Policy.
All Rivkin staff wishing to deal on a personal basis, or deal on behalf of a Related Party, must first be authorised to do so by completing a request and having it approved by a director or compliance officer.
If you have any questions regarding this Staff and Proprietary Trading Policy, please contact Gregory Freckmann, Risk and Compliance Manager, on 02 8302 3600.


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Key to Becoming an Expert Witness
Hemangi Harankhedkar
Aug 27, 2020
The testimony given by an expert witness plays a decisive role in deciding the outcome of a case. It is not that easy to become one and it requires lots of skills and a good knowledge of the case. Go through this story to know more on how to become one.
An expert witness is a person who has extraordinary and specialized knowledge of his concerned subject as compared to the intellect of an average person. The testimony of this expert is highly valued in the court of law. The duty of an expert witness comes with great responsibility as his/her opinions play a decisive role in deciding the outcome of the case.
For this, he/she needs to be unbiased in his/her research and opinions. He can testify either for the prosecution or for the defense parties. In many cases, both the parties use the services of an expert witness making the case complicated and sometimes also controversial. Do you want to become one? Read through FAQs given below for a detailed information.
Where is an Expert Witness Required?
An expert witness is required to confirm the authenticity of an opinion or event, concerning law. This can be confirming severity of the injury of victim, cause of accident, and many other events.
The expert has to carry out a thorough research for finding the truth and then he/she documents and presents the facts before the jury. His/her opinions and findings play a decisive role in judging the outcome of the case.
Who Can Become an Expert Witness?
Expert witnesses are generally experts in their field of work and many of them possess higher qualifications like a PhD degree. Though a doctorate is not a mandatory qualification required, experience and sound knowledge of their concerned field are factors that are important. The more education a person has, the more he/she will be trusted by the court.
The qualifications of the person are generally verified by the concerned court authorities and so you should neatly document and present your skills. Many experts, to popularize and advertise their services, use websites through which they can also convey their availability to be a witness.
There are schools that provide training to the potential candidates and help them obtain the important experience of the work. The work generally involves producing and preparing documents after studying the evidence cases.
What are the Required Skills?
Becoming an expert witness is quite a challenging task. Apart from holding the right qualification, he should also possess many other skills, some of them being communication and writing skills. He should have writing skills because it is his work to document all the evidence for the scrutiny of the court authorities. He also has to take care that the written format is well documented and easy to understand for the people involved.
How Much Can he Expect to be Paid?
Considering the challenge and responsibility involved with the job, expert witnesses are quite substantially paid. There are as such no perfect salary figures and pay varies from one case to another. An expert who has experience of giving testimony to court would demand a higher amount and would be well paid than the experts who have no court experience.
The pay is quite similar to that of lawyers. In special cases, they can cut down on their fees, like in cases where the people involved with the case cannot pay the required fees. This entirely depends on the experts and the lawyers involved with the case.
To avoid controversy, an expert witness should be impartial and not let pressure affect them to modify the truth and authenticity of their opinion. This is because their findings have a very high say on deciding the fate of the case and deciding the judgment. If you are interested in becoming one, you should have a sound background knowledge of your area of work and the ability to justify your points.
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It would be great if I could just go into edit mode, click on the mistaken entry and see a list of the available midi presets assigned to that automation track and just swap to the correct preset (the preset that I meant to hit).
Or would it be possible to sync a video to the automation track so I would only have to rewind or fast forward the video and re-enter the preset. Anything that would prevent one from having to play the song all the way over every time one needs to make an edit.


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CHICAGO -- The Wizard of Oz has been playing the huge Rosemont Theatre just outside O'Hare Airport since Mar. 1 and continues through April 5. Madison Square Garden's touring production, which permits audiences to both cross over the rainbow and to enter into the movie, stars lifelong headliners Mickey Rooney (in the title role) and Eartha Kitt (as the Wicked Witch of the West) in this family-friendly 3-D version of the beloved 1939 movie classic. Selected from among 300 young auditioners, 15-year-old Jessica Grove plays Dorothy. For information, call (312) 559-1212.
-- By Lawrence Bommer
Chicago Correspondent


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What is a mini-rally? Well, it's the name of an amateur rally here in Latvia. Why am I writing about this!? Jānis is participating in it! He is co-driver: reading off a set of pacenotes to the driver.
While he was 450 km away from home we (girls) had a PJ party! Girls are sad when Jānis isn't home and also fight! As my mom says: There should be at one rooster in the henhouse! I agree!
So girls were happy, I made sweet condensed milk popcorn and cheese crackers and chocolate milk from real cocoa with honey and vanilla in it! We dressed in PJs and watched movies: The Princess and the Frog, Nemo and Frozen.
Jānis was home at 3am but girls were sound asleep by that time.. and me too!


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Minoru Kato
- Title
- DevOps Evangelist, NTT Comware
- Role
- DASA Events Committee Japan
Minoru KATO is the DevOps Evangelist of NTT COMWARE CORPORATION. He has engaged in cloud technology research and development. He currently engages in cloud service and DevOps service. He was appointed to the DASA Ambassador of Japan in August 2018.
The mission of the DASA Ambassador is to expand the latest skills standardized by DASA and practices and knowledge gained from the committee activities widely in Japan. He received Annual research award 2011 of the Information and Communication Management Technical Committee of IEICE. He is the Information Processing Society of Japan certified IT professional.


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The Grand National Assembly of Turkey (TBMM, Turkish: Template:Italics correction), usually referred to simply as the Meclis ("parliament"), is the unicameral Turkish legislature. It is the sole body given the legislative prerogatives by the Turkish Constitution. It was founded in Ankara on 23 April 1920 in the midst of the Turkish War of Independence. The parliament was fundamental in the efforts of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk and his colleagues to found a new state out of the remnants of the Ottoman Empire in the aftermath of the World War I.
Turkey has had a history of Parliamentary government before the establishment of the current national Parliament:
Turkey had two Parliamentary governments during the Ottoman period. The First Constitutional Era lasted for only a brief period, elections being held only twice. After the first elections there were a number of criticisms of the government due to the Russo-Turkish War, 1877–1878 by the representatives, and the assembly was dissolved and an election called on 28 June 1877. The second assembly was also dissolved by the Sultan on 14 February 1878.
The Second Constitutional Era is considered to have begun on 23 July 1908. The constitution that was written for the first parliament included control of the sultan on the public and was removed during 1909, 1912, 1914 and 1916, in a session known as the "declaration of freedom". Most of the modern parliamentary rights that were not granted in the first constitution were granted, such as the abolition of the right of the Sultan to deport citizens that were claimed to have committed harmful activities, the establishment of a free press, a ban on censorship. Freedom to hold meetings and establish political parties was recognized, and the government was held responsible to the assembly, not to the sultan.
After World War I, the victorious Allied Powers sought the dismemberment of the Ottoman state through the Treaty of Sèvres.[1] The political existence of the Turkish nation was to be completely eliminated under these plans, except for a small region. Nationalist Turkish sentiment rose in the Anatolian peninsula, engendering the establishment of the Turkish national movement. The political developments during this period have made a lasting impact which continues to affect the character of the Turkish nation. During the Turkish war of independence, Mustafa Kemal put forth the notion that there would be only one way for the liberation of the Turkish people in the aftermath of World War I, namely, through the creation of an independent, sovereign Turkish state. The Sultanate was abolished by the newly founded parliament in 1922, paving the way for the formal proclamation of the republic that was to come on 29 October 1923.
Mustafa Kemal, in a speech he made on 19 March 1920 announced that "an Assembly would be gathered in Ankara that would possess extraordinary powers, how the members who would participate in the assembly would be elected and the need to realise elections at the latest within fifteen days". He also stated that the members of the dispersed Chamber of Deputies could also participate in the assembly in Ankara, to increase the representative power of the parliament. The Turkish Grand National Assembly, established on national sovereignty, held its inaugural session on 23 April 1920.
The first trial of multi-party politics, at the republican era, was made in 1924 by the establishment of the Terakkiperver Cumhuriyet Fırkası which was closed after several months. Following a 6-year one-party rule, after the foundation of the Serbest Fırka (Liberal Party) by Ali Fethi Okyar, in 1930, some violent disorders took place, especially in the eastern parts of the country. The Liberal Party was dissolved on 17 November 1930 and no further attempt at a multiparty democracy was made until 1945.
The Multi-Party period in Turkey resumed by the founding of the National Development Party (Milli Kalkınma Partisi), by Nuri Demirağ, in 1945. The Democratic Party was established the following year, and won the general elections of 1950; one of its leaders, Celal Bayar, becoming President of the Republic and another, Adnan Menderes, Prime Minister.
Under the constitution of 1961, the Grand National Assembly was a bicameral parliament with over 600 members, the upper house being the Senate.
Following the 12 September militar coup (1980–82) the Turkish parliament again became unicameral under the current constitution approved in a national referendum in 1982.
There are 550 members of parliament (deputies) who are elected for a four-year term by the D'Hondt method, a party-list proportional representation system, from 85 electoral districts which represent the 81 administrative provinces of Turkey (Istanbul is divided into three electoral districts whereas Ankara and İzmir are divided into two each because of their large populations). To avoid a hung parliament and its excessive political fragmentation, a party must win at least 10% of the national vote to qualify for representation in the parliament. As a result of this threshold, only two parties won seats in the legislature after the 2002 elections and three in 2007. The 2002 elections saw every party represented in the previous parliament ejected from the chamber.[2] This rather high threshold has been internationally criticised, but a complaint with the European Court for Human Rights was turned down.
Independent candidates may also run[3] and can be elected without needing a threshold.[4]
Since the 2002 general elections, an absolute majority of the seats have been held by members of the Justice and Development Party (AK Party), which leads a single-party government.[5] In 2002, the Republican People's Party (CHP) was the only other party that succeeded in being represented in Parliament. At the 2007 general elections, three parties managed to clear the 10% threshold — AK Party, CHP, and the Nationalist Movement Party (MHP). Furthermore, Kurdish politicians from the Democratic Society Party (DTP) circumvented the threshold by contesting the election as independents; 24 of them were elected, enabling them to constitute their own faction in the Assembly.
The current Speaker of the parliament is Cemil Çiçek from the AK Party, who was elected on 4 July 2011 for the first two years of the legislature. He is the 25th Speaker of the parliament of Turkey succeeding his party colleague Mehmet Ali Şahin.
Parties who have at least 20 deputies may form a parliamentary group. Currently there are three parliamentary groups at the GNAT: The majority AKP, main opposition CHP, and the other opposition parties MHP and BDP.
These committees are one of auditing tools of the Parliament. The research can begin upon the demand of the Government, political party groups or min 20 MPs. The duty is assigned to a committee whose number of members, duration of work and location of work is determined by the proposal of the Parliamentary Speaker and the approval of the General Assembly.
These committees are established if any investigation demand re the PM and ministers occur and approved by the General Assembly through hidden voting.
An MP can attend more than one committee if s/he is not a member of Application Committee or Planning and Budgeting Committee. Members of those committees can not participate in any other committees. On the other hand s/he does not have to work for a committee either.
Number of members of each committee is determined by the proposal of the Advisory Council and the approval of the General Assembly.
Sub committees are established according to the issue that the committee receives. Only Public Enterprises (PEs) Committee has constant sub committees that are specifically responsible for a group of PEs.
Committee meetings are open to the MPs, the Ministers' Board members and the Government representatives. The MPs and the Ministers' Board members can talk in the committees but can not make amendments proposals or vote. Every MP can read the reports of the committees.
NGOs can attend the committee meetings upon the invitation of the committee therefore volunteer individual or public participation is not available. Media, but not the visual media, can attend the meetings. The media representatives are usually the parliamentary staff of the media institutions. The committees can prevent the attendance of the media with a joint decision.
Template:Turkish general election, 2011
The breakdown of seats in the previous legislature was as follows:
The building which first housed the Parliament was converted from the Ankara headquarters of the Committee of Union and Progress, the political party that overthrew Sultan Abdulhamid II in 1909 in an effort to bring democracy to the Ottoman Empire. It is now used as the locale of the Museum of the War of Independence. The second building which housed the Parliament has also been converted to a Museum, the Museum of the Republic. The Grand National Assembly is now housed in a modern and imposing building in the Bakanlıklar neighborhood of Ankara.[6] The monumental building's project was designed by Clemens Holzmeister.
The building was depicted on the reverse of the Turkish 50,000 lira banknotes of 1989-1999.[7]
Coordinates: 39°54′42″N 32°51′04″E / 39.91167°N 32.85111°E / 39.91167; 32.85111
Iraq, Saddam Hussein, Russia, United Nations, Turkey
Politics of Turkey, Turkey, Islamism, Justice and Development Party (Turkey), Turkish general election, June 2015
Chechnya, Michael Jackson, Indonesia, Saddam Hussein, 2004
Republican People's Party (Turkey), Bülent Ecevit, Turkey, Istanbul, Rahşan Ecevit


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text: Pediatricians have a unique challenge when it comes to caring for the broad spectrum of needs associated with opioid-exposed infants. Some babies who were treated with pharmacological methods in a hospital will be discharged home still on neuro-active medications. Other babies did not receive a neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS) diagnosis or specific treatment after birth but are at high risk and may show signs of developmental problems. Nathalie Maitre, MD, PhD, director of the NICU Follow-up Program at Nationwide Children's Hospital, and her team have developed two key algorithms to support the care of opioid-exposed infants.


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New Budget Law Raises Spending Caps, Provides Nearly $90 Billion in Disaster Aid
Early Friday morning, Congress passed and the President signed into law a sweeping $500 billion bill that includes: a six-week Continuing Resolution (CR) that funds the federal government through March 23, a budget deal that lifts defense and domestic discretionary spending caps by $300 billion over two years, and an $89.3 billion disaster aid package that will help Puerto Rico, Texas, Florida, and the U.S. Virgin Islands recover from last year's devastating hurricanes and provides tax relief to help California recover from wildfires.
Budget Deal
The law raises the spending caps for both the defense and domestic discretionary spending accounts—domestic by $63 billion in fiscal year (FY) 2018 and by $68 billion in FY 2019. It is yet unclear how these new spending caps will affect funding for housing and community development programs.
The deal included a six-week CR to fund to give lawmakers until March 23 to write an FY 2018 Omnibus spending package under the new budget caps. Enterprise will encourage appropriators to increase investment in vital programs like HOME Investment Partnerships, Community Development Block Grants, Project-Based Rental Assistance, and the CDFI Fund.
It is worth noting that while Congress has provided meaningful increases to domestic programs for two years, these levels are still lower than historical levels before the Budget Control Act instituted strict spending limits.
Disaster Recovery
Along with the budget deal and CR, lawmakers concurrently passed an $89.3 billion disaster supplemental aimed to helping communities in disaster-affected areas recover from devastating hurricanes and wildfires in 2017. The package provided $28 billion for the Community Development Block Grant Disaster Recovery (CBDG-DR) program at HUD, $23.5 billion for the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Disaster Relief Fund, $17.39 billion for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, and $1.65 billion for the Small Business Administration disaster loan program.
CDBG-DR funds will go to repair homes, support local businesses and rebuild infrastructure in addition to mitigating future risk from natural disasters. Within the $28 billion for CDBG-DR:
- $16 billion will be used to address unmet needs, including at least $11 billion for helping areas adversely affected by Hurricane Maria of which $2 billion is for repairing and improving the power grids in Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
- $12 billion will be used for mitigation activities that will be awarded to prior CDBG-DR grantees in proportion to the size of CDBG-DR grants awarded to those grantees for disasters occurring in 2015, 2016, and 2017. This is a new sizeable investment in resilience measures for communities already administering recovery programs.
- Up to $15 million of the appropriation will be used for capacity building and technical assistance to help states and local governments more effectively rebuild and administer disaster resources. This is the first time Congress has dedicated technical assistance for recipients of CDBG-DR.
The law includes special provisions for the use of disaster funds in Puerto Rico, requiring the Governor to coordinate with the Recovery Board on the administration of recovery programs.
The disaster aid package included a provision that allows HUD to make temporary adjustments to Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher renewal funding allocations for public housing agencies (PHAs) adversely affected by disasters in 2017. Such an adjustment would need to be made at the request of a PHA in coordination with HUD.
The supplemental also provides $18.7 million to rebuild Section 515 Rental Housing properties in USDA's portfolio that were damaged or destroyed by disasters in 2017 and extends favorable tax treatment provisions enacted for areas affected by hurricanes to also include areas in California affected by wildfires.
The package additionally extends the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) for another month until March 23, giving lawmakers more time to consider NFIP reform legislation.
Next Steps
Enterprise is heartened that Congress has provided a meaningful increase for domestic programs and a robust disaster recovery package. We encourage lawmakers to continue monitoring the recovery process in disaster-affected areas to provide additional support as needed. In addition, Enterprise urges appropriators to increase funding for housing and community development programs in the FY 2018 Omnibus, given the urgent need for these investments in communities nationwide.
The Administration is expected to release its FY 2019 Budget Request on Monday, February 12. Look out next week for additional posts and analysis from Enterprise on the request and its policy proposals.


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[An article by Paula Whidden]
This Veteran's Day, we seek to honor our soldiers who sacrificed their time, their energy and their bodies for their country. Let's also be aware the Bible isn't silent on this topic. It's easy to think about God as love, and Jesus as the Prince of Peace and these things are true. But, I would be inaccurate if I didn't expose you to more.
God isn't a one dimensional storybook character. Consider that we're made in His image. Think of how complex we are, and you'll begin to understand how complex He is.
The Bible is packed with battle imagery. Anyone who looks at the Middle East notices how often people get ready for battle. An attitude not new to this generation, it's been around for centuries. Israel's history is war-filled. Sometimes, God told Israel to attack. Sometimes, other peoples did the attacking. Anyway you look at it, these wars created veterans.
These Bible veterans told happy stories of successful fights. There were also battles where they never returned. Much like our soldiers today, they knew the full content of war.
Who are these Bible veterans?
1. Joshua: As second in command to Moses when Israel left Egypt, he led the army. He trusted God and still felt scared on occasion. When he took over the leadership at Moses death, God had to tell him to be strong and courageous several times. He was. In his story we see how even the strongest warriors feel fear.
Deuteronomy 31:6 – "Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you."
2. Gideon: The Bible says God called him to face a battle against outrageous odds, a fortified army with greater military prowess than Israel. He didn't want to do it, but after some convincing he relented. He never led anyone prior to that moment, but with God's help, he led his little army to success.
Judges 6:12 – "When the angel of the LORD appeared to Gideon, he said, "The LORD is with you, mighty warrior."
3. Samson: A strong guy with a bad temper. He ultimately served God in a drastic way, but his temper and foolish mouth conquered him better than any army in battle.
4. Deborah: A prophetess who went marching with the army, because their leader got nervous. Under her leadership, they won the fight, in spite of the incredible odds.
5. David: As a kid, his courage and faith in God's abilities knew no bounds. When he became an adult, he fought in the army, ended up leading the army, and battled many enemies who attacked Israel. All these battles wreaked havoc on his personal life, but he continually tried his best. Often, he asked God for help and forgiveness. His attitude mattered to God.
1 Samuel 16:18 – "One of the servants answered, "I have seen a son of Jesse of Bethlehem who knows how to play the lyre. He is a brave man and a warrior. He speaks well and is a fine-looking man. And the LORD is with him."
6. Jonathan: An outrageously gutsy guy, Jonathon once fought a battle with only the help of his own armor bearer. He took risks and it paid off. He also sought God's guidance every step of the way. Ultimately, though he fought bravely and wanted to please God, he still met a warrior's death.
2 Samuel 1:25 – "How the mighty have fallen in battle! Jonathan lies slain on your heights."
7. God: I've spoken with many people who only want to think about God as the miracle maker who calms us when we hurt or loves us unconditionally, and His ability to meet those needs is unmatched. But if the Bible is the Word of God and helps us to understand the complexities of Him, we should also consider some warrior imagery it presents. In a vital way, God fought alongside Israel to help them succeed when the bookmakers would have bet against them.
His strength made weak people look strong. He also comes alongside us in our daily hours and fights the internal and external fights with us. He conquers fear. He emboldens us to do unusual things. No enemy of the Lord's will ever last long, His might has no match.
Exodus 15:3 –"The LORD is a warrior; the LORD is his name."
Psalm 24:8 – "Who is this King of glory? The LORD strong and mighty, the LORD mighty in battle."
Whether you see the value of war or desire peace in every quarter, it remains that men and women do fight for their countries. They give of themselves, because their country asks them to do it. In the United States, we can accurately say our success and even our existence came from people who pushed past their fears to do something different from the every day.
In my family, we've had people in the Air National Guard, Navy, Army and Marines over several generations. What about you? Does your family contain one or more veterans? God understands their experience better than many of us can. If opportunity provides, let a vet know you appreciate them. If you cannot, then ask God to help the vets you know to grow closer to Him and His strength.
Today, I express thanks to the men and women who choose to leave comfortable lives to serve and save others. Thank You Lord for these sacrificial people.
Do you know people who served in the military? How have they inspired you?


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Gulfstream International Airlines is making The Bahamas more accessible this summer by boosting frequencies on its flights between Fort Lauderdale and Freeport, Marsh Harbour and Treasure Cay for travel from June 29 to August 22, 2011.
The Fort Lauderdale flights will depart at 8:30 a.m., 11:35 a.m. and 2:55 p.m., arriving in Freeport at 9:10 a.m., Marsh Harbour at 12:35 p.m. and Treasure Cay at 3:55 p.m., respectively.
Return flights will depart Freeport at 9:35 a.m., Marsh Harbour at 1 p.m. and Treasure Cay at 4:20 p.m., arriving back in Fort Lauderdale at 10:20 a.m., 2:05 p.m. and 5:20 p.m., respectively.
The new service brings to four the total number of daily Gulfstream flights to/from Freeport. Marsh Harbour flghts increase to three times daily, while service to Treasure Cay grows to twice per day.
Visit www.gulfstreamair.com.