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The First Decade: 10 Years, 10 Accomplishments
The First Decade: 10 Years, 10 Teachers
Male Presence in Teaching Continues to Decline
by Brian Jamieson
Where Was That Line?
by Joe Jamieson
Luci Loisi was hired to do an LTO for the Dufferin-Peel Catholic DSB in September 1997. And she's been there ever since, now the consummate professional, 10 years into a long-term career.
Hired to teach French at Loyola CSS, Loisi's start was abruptly interrupted by a political protest. Instead of standing in a classroom, she found herself standing on a sidewalk carrying a placard.
The following year the teachers were back on the picket lines, this time before the school year began. "That was a tough beginning," she says. She remembers questioning whether she should stay in teaching.
Happily, she did. She taught at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Secondary School from December 1997 until June 2003, when she became part of the team to open a new school in Dufferin-Peel: St. Marcellinus Secondary School. She's been teaching French there ever since, and sees herself still there in another 10 years.
Loisi says she was thrilled when that first group of Grade 9 students graduated from Grade 12 this past June. "It's been fantastic being part of a new school – hiring staff, developing policies and influencing programs. I have enjoyed the challenges."
In the early days she found it difficult to manage her own high demands to be a perfectionist and ensure that every class was engaging, rigorous and creative. "There was little time for anything other than work, and it was stressful feeling I had to prepare something new and exciting every day."
Time and experience have taught her to manage her time and expectations better. "I have a repertoire now. I have resources and activities I know work. It's still demanding and can still be stressful, but not like it was."
Back then, Loisi was afraid to ask colleagues for help. She didn't want to show weakness, especially in front of administration and more experienced colleagues. It's different today.
She says, "I introduced Le Petit Prince to my Grade 12 students and had them colouring with crayons, and they loved it." Ten years ago she would never have done that for fear of what admin would think. Today she realizes that such creativity is necessary to keep her students engaged. Moreover, her strong professionalism and confidence erase her worries about what others think.
Along the way, Loisi has completed AQs in Special Education, co-op and religious education, as well as her Master of Education.
"It gets easier," she promises, and she encourages teachers who are struggling to stick with it. "When I had an especially difficult class," she remembers, "I sometimes felt like giving up." In hindsight, though, it was those classes that taught Loisi the most about classroom management, discipline, organization and creativity. "I had to work extra hard to engage some students, and it forced me to develop alternative teaching styles, which made me a better teacher."
This year Carl Gagnon worked with Manon Séguin, a singer from L'Orignal in the Cornwall area, to prepare a school tour to show students that it's possible to succeed and to work in French in the region. He says, "The students saw that success is possible right here, and that you don't necessarily have to go to Hollywood."
Gagnon is a language planning teacher for the Conseil scolaire de district catholique de l'Est ontarien, and works from an office in the école secondaire catholique La Citadelle in Cornwall. His main duties relate to the implementation of the aménagement linguistique policy, which is intended to improve students' communication skills, increase enrolment in French-language schools and support teachers in their activities.
One of Gagnon's greatest pleasures is watching young people's reaction to the projects they undertake. "I like to see them smile," he says. "I like to see teachers happy and watch how the new activities benefit so many students."
Even though he is passionate about his new role, this former elementary school French Immersion teacher admits that he misses the students. "I work behind the scenes and my direct contact with them is limited. When I visit the school or have the opportunity to work with and see my former students again, we say hello. Human contact, smiles, joys, failures – all these things explain my attachment to the profession and the fact that I am still working in teaching today."
His hobbies are baseball, soccer, fishing and spending time with his family. He says: "You need to know when to say no. It's a great challenge because my work is important, but I also need to spend time with my wife and my little darlings to give them the love and attention they need. My wife is a teacher, and several members of my family have been in teaching, so the people around me are very understanding and have set an example for me to follow."
Every morning Anju Bhardwaj works for the Toronto DSB. Her daughter was born in 2005 and she relishes her time both at school and at home, especially after being on maternity leave.
Bhardwaj started with the TDSB in 1999, working at Rose Avenue JPS, Nelson Mandela Park PS, Chine Drive PS, and now Glen Ravine JPS.
She has taught JK/SK and a Grade 4/5 split, and she prefers the JK/SK students. "I enjoy the kids' energy, their enthusiasm and their eagerness to learn." She also likes the respect the smaller children give their teachers, and feels she connects best with this age group.
She found it challenging to get back into the swing of things after her maternity leave, more so because she came back to a new school and new colleagues. "It took a while to adjust," she admits, "but everything is going well now."
Reflecting on her career, Bhardwaj feels that one of her strengths comes from the tremendous variety of students. "I've had many children with high emotional and behavioural needs, and kids who don't speak English, and I know how to work with them to help them be successful."
One of her major challenges, although she doesn't see it that way, is the fact that many of her JK students come to her class with little or no English. "Parents whose first language is not English send their children to school thinking, 'This is where they will learn English.'"
Bhardwaj takes it in stride. "The kids pick up a lot from their classmates and they follow the other kids. Plus, I repeat myself and use visuals to reinforce what I am saying." She also encourages them to speak in complete sentences. "They quickly learn 'washroom' but they only say the word. I have them speak in full sentences to ask for what they want." Many of her students are Tamil and the students will translate for each other too.
Bhardwaj herself learned English as her second language; Punjabi is her first. "I did my schooling in Burlington and I acquired my English skills without difficulty."
"Having other careers before teaching has broadened and strengthened my practice," says David Douglass, who worked first in hospitality and then in banking.
In 1999 he and his wife (now a nurse) decided to change career paths to focus more on helping others. And he hasn't looked back.
Working in Sudbury for the Rainbow DSB, Douglass has taught in three different schools, teaching Grades 6, 7 and 8, working as a Special Education Resource Teacher (SERT) and teaching students in an autism spectrum disorder class. He has been at Long Lake PS for the past two years.
The school has 83 students, five teachers and a shared principal, vice-principal and SERT. The small school means a tight staff, a supportive community and the luxury of getting to know all of the students. Douglass comments: "One of the things that makes teaching most enjoyable for me is getting to know my students both inside and outside the classroom."
He likes teaching the 5/6 split because he has many students for two years in a row. "It allows me to really understand and teach to their learning styles, and to help them be as successful as possible." That's not always easy to do, especially with 28 kids in the class.
Douglass feels it's important to show his students that he cares about them. "I let them know they are integral to the success of our classroom, and that I and their classmates miss them when they're not here. I take the time to listen to their stories and show them that I'm interested in what interests them."
He stresses the importance of learning to his students, and it's just as important to him. He's started his MEd, and has his specialists in reading and Special Education. Douglass has worked hard to integrate and apply what he learned in his AQs to his programming.
He plans to keep on teaching, maybe at the university level once he finishes his next degree, or perhaps with the lucky students at Long Lake PS.
Irene Maccarone is in her sixth year of teaching, all of it with Grades 4 and 5 students at Credit Valley PS in the Peel DSB. This year she's teaching Grade 5 at the Erin Mills school.
She worked in IT in the banking and brokerage industries for several years before becoming a teacher. "Business is demanding and challenging, and teaching is even more so. There's never enough time, and time management is my biggest challenge. I'm pulled in so many directions: students, my program, clubs, teams, concerts, staff meetings, paperwork. My dream job would be to have enough time to work with the kids all day long."
Maccarone helps run the school's speech club. She coaches the cross-country team and is involved in the school's and board's anti-bullying programs. "Kids need to be made aware that bullying occurs everywhere," she says. "They need to learn what it is, how to avoid it, and what to do if they encounter it."
She believes that all children have something good in them and that it's her challenge to bring it out. "Everyone can succeed and get recognition from their peers for doing something well. It's my job to figure out what that is for each child and to make it happen."
She's getting ready for yet another AQ course – ESL Part 1 – and is currently reading Getting Beyond "I Like the Book" on teaching students critical reading and thinking skills.
Maccarone found her first couple of years extremely difficult, but is happy that she stuck with it. "When I started, someone told me it would take about five years to feel comfortable in my career and strike the right life-work balance. I agree with that."
Maccarone sees herself as continuing to work with students, although maybe not in Canada. "There are so many opportunities out there in the world and I want to take advantage of them. I may want to teach abroad."
France Monette teaches at école élémentaire catholique Saint-Antoine in Tecumseh, near Windsor.
"As a Grade 1 teacher," she says, "I'm the one who needs to take some of the play out of things and establish routines, give them structure, and show them how to work, manage their time and do their homework. It's an incredible experience to watch their progress in reading and writing, to see them become more independent and enjoy what they have been able to accomplish after only a few months."
Her greatest challenge is teaching a class in which more than half the students do not speak a word of French. "Their mother tongue may be English, Romanian, Arabic or Italian, and it's up to me to help them make progress – to elicit their interest in the French language and keep them interested, so they can develop fully within the French-language school system."
Monette applauds research and development in education technology and the many different kinds of software that exist, but laments the lack of time, and courses, to learn them all.
She would like to teach her students that they should take pride in themselves as francophone Catholics. "It's important to live your faith, your Catholic religion and your Frenchness in a visible way everywhere – in the school and the community and not only in the classroom. We need to be proud of being francophone, proud of who we are."
In her free time, Monette likes to read about education and she occasionally writes poetry. But, she adds, "I have three daughters. I am therefore both a mother and a taxi driver.
"I'm lucky to have a good husband. He's a high school teacher. I often tease him by telling him that I have more work than he has, but he answers back that the very opposite is the case!"
Making a difference is what teaching is all about for Lenora Maracle, a Mohawk Language teacher from Six Nations of the Grand River near Brantford. For some of her students, her class is their first introduction to their own language.
After graduating from Seneca College, Maracle worked for 10 years as an audio-visual technician with the York School Board. She returned to Six Nations once she had her children. She worked as a bus driver, in a ladder factory and in a bakery before taking the Native Teacher Education program on Six Nations. She then began teaching in elementary schools there, but to teach high school in the Grand Erie DSB she needed certification.
She attended the Aboriginal Teacher Certificate Program at Nipissing University in North Bay to earn her certificate. Since then she's been teaching Mohawk in high school from September to February, then supply teaching in the five elementary schools on the reserve for the rest of the year.
The native languages curriculum document is very vague, she explains, because it has to handle so many different languages. "As language teachers we have to develop our own resources and teaching tools. You can't find them on the Internet or in bookstores. Each teacher develops his or her own, and the styles of teaching differ." Maracle has adapted some of her course materials from those used in the adult immersion program. Others she found in a kindergarten class when supply teaching.
Maracle finds herself incorporating more traditional skills in her classroom. As an aboriginal clothing and crafts artisan, trained at Pine Tree Native Centre in Brantford, she finds that crafts can make a difference in her students' sense of accomplishment and pride. A student having difficulty with the language class was transformed by an opportunity to make his own moccasins.
Maracle has noticed a decline in respect for teachers in her few years in the profession. For many students, the initial excitement about learning Mohawk has worn off, and they now take learning their language for granted. She credits parental and family involvement for those who are succeeding. "If the parents think the language is important, then the kids do too," she maintains. Maracle's personal motto is: "Prepare for the worst, but expect the best," and although she would prefer to teach her language in high school all year round, she brings her unique and multi-faceted cultural approach to her elementary teaching as well. And that makes a difference to all her students.
Amanda Flemming is enthusiastic about her new profession. "You go to university for five years to prepare for something you think you want to do, but you don't know for sure until you're done and out there. I can honestly say that I love it!" And it's the variety and the students she enjoys most.
Flemming has been teaching math and English at J. Clarke Richardson Collegiate in Ajax in the Durham DSB since she joined the College. Her timetable has alternated between one semester of applied math and one of academic English, mostly with students in Grades 9 and 10. She also teaches Grade 12 University English at night school.
Flemming especially enjoys working with students at the applied level. "Most academic kids are good, hard-working and know what they want and how to achieve it. At the applied level, many students have struggled in school and it doesn't come easy." She enjoys the challenge of finding success with them. "I may not see progress every day with these kids, but I do over time, and that makes it worthwhile."
She strives to find a balance between lesson planning and marking. Her dream would be to make every lesson fun, engaging and applicable to her students' lives, but she's come to realize that isn't possible, at least not every day. She wants to spend her time prepping, but there's also marking and administrative work to be done. Finding the right balance comes from discipline and time management, she feels. "I try to use my prep period for lesson planning, and then mark and do paperwork after school."
J. Clarke Richardson Collegiate has a strong technology focus. Flemming and all her colleagues have laptops and access to smart boards, data projectors and the Internet. She uses IT regularly and her students work in the computer lab at least once a unit. In English, her biggest challenge is teaching students to research responsibly and filter what they find on the Net.
This relatively new teacher has some advice for newer teachers: "Don't take yourself too seriously; your students won't. Remember why you went into teaching – to work with kids. Don't sweat the small stuff. Have fun!"
New teachers are typically full of high ideals and brimming with the vision of teaching that brought them into the profession – then they have to face the real world.
Karen Heffernan has been able to integrate her ideals into the reality of her first job. In only her second year of teaching, she is assistant head of English at Clarington Central Secondary School in the Kawartha Pine Ridge DSB. "I was in the right place at the right time with the right list of accomplishments," she says. Clarington is a brand new school. From before the ground was broken, the principal and staff have been working together to make decisions that best meet the needs of students.
"Our school recognizes the gifts of all students," she maintains. Her classroom is currently home to two different groups of learners: Grade 9 and Grade 12. "Both sets of kids have a lot to change in their world. They see things in unique ways. Coming to the same classroom they see each other's work displayed and ask questions, learn from each other."
This integrative approach to learning offers many rewards, but Heffernan says her greatest challenge is what she sees as the disconnect between the goals and philosophy of teaching supported by her school, and the big push for numbers from the province. In her opinion, "The kids we're trying to help are punished by the numbers-driven system." She still believes that accountability is important, "but I'm also personally accountable, and I'm accountable to the people in my room."
Before becoming a teacher, Heffernan was an adult literacy worker with Frontier College in Peterborough, and she worked with the disability services office while in the concurrent education program at Trent.
She finds that the learning community model in her school allows for mentors to grow with her. She has embraced the recent technological advances that her school has incorporated. Announcements are televised, there are high levels of access to computer labs, and she is eager to explain that "learning through video conferencing helps students realize how big the world is and how many new skills they'll need, regardless of their career path."
Recently certified to teach in Ontario, Chukwuyem Imahiagbe is searching for a new job that follows his passion – teaching.
Imahiagbe grew up in Nigeria, where he graduated from the University of Ibadan and teacher's college and taught math for two years. Then he moved to England. While working on his masters in computing and information systems at the University of Luton, he taught math and information technology to 16- to 19-year-olds at Luton Sixth Form College for 18 months. He also coached the school chess team.
Imahiagbe came to Canada in 2005, thinking he would have to take an examination to qualify to teach here.
"I got myself connected with Teach in Ontario," he says. "There, I got information that was very useful and important. They provide information on schools, boards, curriculum, how to get on the supply list, how to have a chance to get employed. I didn't need to take any more exams, I just had to submit my application and get documents from Nigeria and England."
One important factor was visiting Ontario classrooms. Imahiagbe found that helpful, although he says, "From what I'm used to in England, what I saw here is about the same."
One difference he found was that desks in Ontario classrooms were arranged so that students sat alone. In England, they were arranged in pairs. But, he noted, there was enough room here for students to interact. "The teachers I observed created a stimulating environment with time for students to work together. They encouraged team work and collaboration."
Just before the 14-week Teach in Ontario program ended, Imahiagbe took a position with Dell Canada. As a quality specialist, he listens to calls, provides feedback on the quality of the call, and coaches agents on how to improve.
Imahiagbe's next step, now that he is licensed to teach in Ontario, is to get acquainted with the school boards in Ottawa, where he and his family live. "I'll be happy to move back to the public school system where my training and experience will be put to use. I'm looking to teach science, math or computers."
Imahiagbe fully intends to find himself a place in a classroom – and also to coach the school chess team, or form a chess team if need be.


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Food| ONE Midtown Kitchen
by Donna Shana
I had such a great time recently when I was invited out for an evening of four courses and wine pairings at ONE. midtown kitchen. Let me start by saying the restaurant that opened in 2002 is beautiful. It's sleek and fresh but laid back and sexy- exactly the type of atmosphere that I love to spend my evenings winding down in. Take a look below and check out the ambiance as well as some of my courses.
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subset: commoncrawl


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Monthly Archives: November 2016
International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women
Many Forms of Violence against Women by Rene Wadlow
25 November is the day designated by the United Nations General Assembly as the "International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women." Violence against women is a year-round occurrence and continues at an alarming rate. Violence against women can take many different forms. There can be an attack upon their bodily integrity and their dignity. As citizens of the world, we need to place an emphasis on the universality of violence against women but also on the multiplicity of the forms of violence. We need to look at the broader system of domination based on subordination and inequality. The value of a special Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women is that the day serves as a time of analysis of the issues and a time for a re-dedication to take both short-term measures – such as the creation of a larger number of homes for battered women – and longer range programs.
Both at the international UN level and at the national and local level, there have been programs devoted to the equality of women and to the promotion of women in all fields. Thus, it is important to stress that women are not only victims in need of special protection but also that women should participate fully and effectively in all aspects of society.
Nevertheless, women have largely remained invisible and inaudible by being allowed to have a key role in the "informal sector" – those sectors of the economy that are the least organized and are often left out of the statistics of the formal economy as if the informal sector did not count. Women have turned to the informal sector – or have been pushed into it – as a way of sustaining a livelihood for their families.
Read the whole article in Ovi Magazine, HERE!
Happy Thanksgiving
From the Ovi Family to You and Your Family,
A Happy Thanksgiving Day
World Diabetes Day
World Diabetes Day is the primary global awareness campaign focusing on diabetes mellitus and is held on November 14 each year.
Filed under health
R.I.P. Leonard Cohen
R.I.P. Leonard Cohen


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Economic and financial data for research in international development workshop
Staff from CAS with support from GDA and GJA are running a free research workshop on the use of economic and financial data in research on international development for UoE Staff and Students on the 18th and 19th of May 2017.
Participants will become familiar with an integrative approach where theory, conceptualization and data act in dialogue. In contrast to standard data workshops, the focus will not be on teaching hypothesis testing techniques. Instead, the workshop will explore how economic and financial data can play a part in the formulation of pertinent questions about society and development.
The course is for students and staff studying International Development, and is specifically tailored to those coming from a non-economics background. Its aim is to demystify key concepts and equip participants with knowledge and skills on how to access, analyse and interpret economic data for development research: assessing, for example, which sectors are doing well in an economy, changing wages, spending in different social services, or the financial position of a company without relying solely on secondary literature.
The workshop will be focused on practical application of skills in class research exercises. In particular, we hope this will prove useful in supporting students with research for MSc dissertations and PhD theses.
The teaching component of the workshop will be led by Professor Marc Wuyts of the International Institute of Social Studies, and Professor Sukhdev Johal, Queen Mary's University of London. Dr Hazel Gray and Dr Andrew Bowman from Centre of African Studies will act as facilitators.
Spaces are limited, and will be allocated on a first come first served basis, with priority given to students.
The event is supported with funding from the University of Edinburgh's Global Development Academy and Global Justice Academy.


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Team building is a huge part of developing a Thriving dental practice. Often the difference between a good practice and a world-class practice is the presence of a true team where the Dentist and the team members are all moving together in concert toward commonly defined goals.
Podcast: Play in new window | Download
Running Time: 49:40 min
In this Thriving Dentist Show, Gary interviews his friend Brenda McNulty about how the FISH! Philosophy can help you develop an amazing team. In this interview Gary and Brenda discuss the history and background of the FISH! Philosophy, the four components of the FISH! Philosophy and how each of these can be applied in the dental office, other team building strategies and how Brenda is helping dental teams succeed today. You will LOVE Brenda's experience and passion for team building!
Brenda's email address: email@example.com
Connect with Brenda on FaceBook: facebook.com/McNulty.Brenda
More information about the book FISH! and the FISH Philosophy: www.charthouse.com
Podcast Assistance by Jodey Smith, Rodecaster Expert Category: Practice Building


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Wood Boardroom Tables are always a popular choice due to their style and material longevity. Sleek and modern, they suit all office spaces. If your office could do with an update, these desks are an easy way to elevate your working space in a contemporary way.
Wooden Conference Tables also allow you to really play with the other furniture in the room - want to inject some colour to your space? These tables create a neutral focal point and complement most colour palettes, meaning you don't have to hold back on your use of colour.


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FCS II Fins Performer PC Small Tri Fin Set
Smaller surfers will love the adaptability of the FCS II Performer PC Tri Fin Set. Designed for a balance of speed, flow and response, the Performer features advanced Inside Foil Technology (IFT) that increases the efficiency of water flow over the surface of the fin adding lift and reducing drag. Performance Core construction delivers a stiff and responsive fin that is incredibly lightweight. A versatile template for an array of conditions, the Performer Series is a well proportioned design that truly provides all around reliability.
Tech Specs
- Base: 4.25 in, 108 mm
- Depth: 4.43 in, 112 mm
- Area: 14.03 sq in, 9054 sq mm
- Sweep: 33.7°
- Foil: IFT
- Size: Small
- Fins in set: 3
- Material: Performance Core
Performance Core construction features an updated large hex core that reduces weight, resulting in a lighter and more responsive fin. The stiff flex pattern extends progressively from the base through to the tip helping the surfer to maintain drive and hold through a turn. PC fins are reliable, very responsive, and can be used in a variety of different conditions.
If you are not 100% satisfied with your purchase you may return it for a full refund, or exchange within 30 days of receiving your order.
Returns are easy! We understand that in some situations returns or exchanges may be necessary. We also want you to be stoked on your purchase. If you are not 100% satisfied with your purchase you may return it for a full refund, or exchange within 30 days of receiving your order. Items must be in new condition with original tags and packaging.
Please reference our full Return Policy.


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Photocopies of score and single string parts, edited and arranged for string orchestra by Imogen Holst. Marked 'in progress'.
Nocturne H173, by Gustav Holst
Archive Unit
- For more information, email the repository
- Advice on accessing these materials
- Cite this description
- Bookmark:https://archiveshub.jisc.ac.uk/data/gb1111-hol/hol/2/3/2/4/6
- This material is held at
- ReferenceGB 1111 HOL/2/3/2/4/6
- Dates of Creationnd [c1960s-1980s]
- Physical Description1 file
Scope and Content
Access Information
This material is made available under the standard conditions of the Britten-Pears Foundation. Readers will be required to produce proof of identity and to sign a Reader's Undertaking form.


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"I've met some of my best friends from being in this band."
Brandon Goetz is a junior at UNC Charlotte, majoring in finance with a concentration in finance & accounting. After graduation, he plans to work at an accounting firm or in investment banking. Brandon plays trumpet and has been in the marching band for three years.
Brandon was born in Baton Rouge, Louisiana and moved to Apex, North Carolina when he was 5 years old. He graduated from Apex High School in 2015 and was a member of the Apex High School Marching Band all four years. Brandon's favorite aspects of band are playing his trumpet and meeting other musicians that share a love of music. Some of his hobbies include martial arts, gymnastics, video gaming and spending time with friends.
Here's what Brandon has to say about the PNNMB:
"I love the PNNMB… it's like my family away from home. I've met some of my best friends from being in this band. It's a great organization to meet like-minded people as well as play music! Performing in the band is an amazing experience. Words cannot describe what it feels like putting on a show for thousands of people, especially at a Carolina Panthers game. The PNNMB has given me so many opportunities to perform and meet some amazing people. I love being a part of the PNNMB and I wouldn't give it up for anything."
By Dr. Chesley Black, Student Leadership Program & Media Director


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A friend of mine posted this quote from American clergyman Howard Thurman on Facebook the other day:
Don't ask what the world needs.
Ask what makes you come alive, and go do it.
Because what the world needs is people who have come alive.
I've read this quote about 30 times already and every time I'm amazed by how powerful and intrinsically true it is. It's closely linked to a lesson I shared with you from my overseas sabbatical, which was to aim right first and then aim high. The bottom line is to know who you are, what makes you feel fulfilled and go for it.
I caught up with a friend and ex-colleague of mine yesterday. She's been questioning her career a lot over the past few years and she announced to me over lunch that she had (pretty much) decided to take the brave step of quitting the security and prestige of the corporate world to pursue her true passion in the cycling industry. I was so pleased to hear the excitement in her voice, see the sparkles in her eyes… She really is coming alive and it's refreshing and beautiful to witness. It has taken her a lot of introspection to get to that realisation (and there's still more to be done), but the end result will be an enjoyable career and, most importantly, a happy and fulfilled person.
As we were about to leave each other, feeling her uncertainty about the legitimacy, timing and announcement of her decision, I shared with her Thurman's quote and said: "Make decisions that make you happy". Her response was a big, genuine smile…
Are you creating a path for yourself that truly makes you come alive? If not, what decisions do you need to make for this to change? What gives you inspiration, motivation and will? What is your definition of success? How do you measure success on a daily and annual basis? What makes you want to jump out of bed in the morning, no matter what? What is your personal mission?
I hope I've encouraged some most important self-reflection…
Til next time, happy decision making! 🙂


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I often think that if I didn't go to law school I would want to either be a pastry chef or learn to blow glass. Perhaps I could blow glass into the shape of pastries. Very many times this year I have thought of quitting. Someone in my small group dropped out during winter quarter and I have to say that I've often felt kind of...well...jealous. I don't think law school is "difficult" per se. It's often busy, overwhelming, awkward, and frustrating...but rarely is the material so difficult that I can't tackle it intellectually. I guess what I'm trying to say is that if I ever get a reader who is just surfing through trying to decide to go to law school...don't not go because you think it's too hard (because it's not)...but do not go if there is something else in life that you think you will love to do every day forever and you're not entirely sure this is what you want (because it's hard enough).
I hold out hope that like OTS is to the Air Force, law school is to being a lawyer. The process of "becoming" kind of sucks, but once you get to the "real" world you find a way to take pride in your job and enjoy what you do.
In other news, I unexpectedly LOVE Criminal Law. This is a surprise since this is basically what I dealt with in the Air Force as a Section Commander, and it never really did much for me. I think that of all the classes we've taken so far it is one I can really grasp onto in a practical way. This has much to do with the professor...but aside from Contracts (also a fabulous professor), this is the most enjoyable class this year.


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The Middleham ottoman is a timeless piece of furniture, featuring a spacious and useful storage compartment with faux suede lining, deep buttoned finish and strong feet. This piece of bespoke furniture is crafted from hard wood for a frame strong enough to last you for many years of constant use.
The simple but elegant design lends this piece to a plain fabric finish, although you do of course have a range of materials and patterns to choose from, in order to get the perfect match for your family living room or wardrobe room.


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Blessings in the midst of transition
Sometimes we simply forget to count our blessings! We should all be thankful for so many things that we take for granted on a daily basis; our family, our friends, our jobs, our church, our home, and the list goes on. God has given us so many blessings that we simply overlook. Why is that?
Our lives are full of things that constantly take up our time. Things that we should be able to put on hold, but for some reason these things seem to fill our days with empty, endless, time consuming nothings. Yet we have little time for things that matter most in life; God, prayer, family, and taking care of ourselves. These are the things that we seem to always put on hold for another day. We will start the fast tomorrow, or the diet, or the prayer journal, or maybe it's simply taking our children to the park for a walk. Things that are of true importance, we never seem to have enough time to actually do.
God has designed something called day and night. The World has a schedule that seems to fill those days and nights with everything that it deems important, but in the end, these are things that waste our time, preventing us from the things that mean the most. We must realize that Gods plan for our lives doesn't work on the "normal schedule".
As you know, we recently left Charlotte where we had lived for the past 8 years. I must say that those eight years were not the most memorable. But they were eight years of being settled in one place, or at least as settled as a traveling ministry family can be.
Moving to Virginia Beach has proved to be a wonderful thing! A much needed time of rest for our family; a place for Judah to belong, learn and strive in his studies; a church family that we love and need; friends that are close enough to visit and spend time with. The list truly could go on for the duration of this letter! So why am I having such a hard time with this transition? It's the best thing that has happened to us in years!
Transition is a place that means we are changing or something around us is changing. Webster's states that transition is passage from one state, stage, subject, or place to another; or a movement, development, or evolution from one form, stage, or style to another. Let's take some time here to let that sink in! A PASSAGE from one STATE, stage, subject, or PLACE to ANOTHER; or a MOVEMENT, development, or EVOLUTION from one FORM, stage, or style to ANOTHER! Once you pick yourself up off the floor, we can move forward!
My "PASSAGE" from one "STATE" to "ANOTHER"- or my "MOVEMENT" or "EVOLUTION" from one "FORM" to "ANOTHER"- means many different things in my life. It means that I am no longer a homeschool mother. I now have to live under someone else's schedule for school, dinner, and bedtime. That is a huge change in our life!
My home is set up differently, and therefore my treadmill is upstairs which prevents me from walking every night while my family and I watch our nightly episode of "Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman." Two months of no walking equals 5lbs of weight on short Michele! Although these things may seem small or indifferent on the larger scale in life, they have been absolutely insurmountable obstacles for me to overcome the past two months.
I find myself in the "evolution forming" definition of the word transition. I am "evolving" if you will into the new mom, wife, and woman that God has intended for me to be in the midst of this transition. That means that my life is changing for the good. And yet, I am having a hard time with the blessings that He has given me in the meantime.
What's my problem? Why can't I just be thankful and move on? Transition changes us, and we are creatures of habit. Like it or not, most of us have a hard time with change simply because it is different. That means that we can miss the blessings in the midst of the transitions due to our lack of or inability to handle change! We MUST move on! When God has blessings awaiting us, if we don't move on, we will never recognize the totality of who He wants us to be or all that He has for us to accomplish!
God loves each of us so much that He will allow situations or circumstances in our lives to make us uncomfortable so we can TRANSITION to the new place and position that He has destined us for. So come on people! Let's count our blessings in the midst of the transition that we find ourselves in. I promise that they will far outweigh the discomfort that you think feel. Think of it like this, there is a sometimes difficult transition from childhood to adulthood. But if we never become an adult; we never grow up, have a family, take on responsibilities and set the course for our future. After all, it's the circle of life!
I am more convinced than ever that when we feel uncomfortable in life's situation, it's nothing more than the Lord "TRANSITIONING" us to our next step in life and ministry.
Transition is simply promotion!
Bask in it, love it, live it!
My prayer for you is that you take time every day, in every situation to count the blessings that the Lord has given you. Write them down and you will see His handy work all over the wall!
Happy Thanksgiving! Let's enjoy all our blessings while in the Midst of Transition!
Digging the Wells of Worship,
Michele Duncan


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Fifth week of our expressive painting class had lots of energy!
Everyone was busy with their creative ideas and explorations.
The creative process engages the whole person in a pursuit of discovery.
Jackson Pollock expressed that "painting is self-discovery and every good artist paints what he is." The participants in our class are truly exploring who they are in their paintings. That's a lot of fun to watch and experience.


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The Importance of "Good" Waste Management
There's lots of things we could tell as to why you should engage with Flame UK to look after your waste management but ultimately we believe that proper waste management is crucial for your safety and the environment. When you dispose of waste properly, we are able to prevent less pollution in the air, which can help with improve public health. When you use proper liners and containers for your rubbish, you are preventing toxic materials from entering the environment.
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- Reduce waste. Recycle! Recycle! Recycle! The beauty about recycling is you can reduce waste and reuse your materials.
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Now that George Zimmerman is back in jail after losing his get out of jail card, due to what prosecutors call "blatant lies" about his finances, it's time to turn to what's next for Zimmerman. Zimmerman lost his get out of jail card by misrepresentations to the Court that he had limited financial means to pay bail. Zimmerman's wife testified that she had no money to assist for a bond. Based on hearing testimony about Zimmerman's limited finances, Judge Kenneth Lester ordered him released on $150,000 bail. Prosecutors had demanded a $1 million bail to secure George Zimmerman's release.
Now after hearing a recorded jail conversation between Zimmerman and his wife, Shelly, prosecutors learned that he had readily available funds of $135,000 on the day preceding the bail hearing. Ironically, if the court had set bail at the requested $1 million, Zimmerman had the money to immediately post bail. A bail bondsman customarily requires 10% of the total amount to post bail. Zimmerman had more money than the required $100,000.00 to post a $1 million bail through a bail bondsman.
At April's bail hearing, defense attorney Mark O' Mara said it would take some time for the family to secure the bail funds as they were a family of "very short means." Zimmerman's wife testified that she was a nursing student and her husband was unemployed and it would take time to "scrape up" funds for a bail. And now that the truth has come out, it will haunt Zimmerman and his attorney. His attorneys want or really need to put a spin on the circumstances saying that Zimmerman did not have access to funds consisting of $135,000 and which ultimately grew to over $200,000. The defense attorneys requested a hearing to explain the lack of truthfulness and will request a new bail. Good luck with that one.
Here's what Judge Lester should do under the circumstances. Zimmerman is entitled to explain himself at a hearing in the hopes to establish a new bail. However, there is no dispute about what his wife was asked in court concerning his finances. And she "blatantly lied" while her husband sat passively listening to her known perjured testimony. So he should not be rewarded now with a new bail for failing to initially tell the truth. I think every parent would agree that a child doesn't get rewarded for lying. A child gets punished. That's exactly what should happen to Zimmerman. The judge should deny a new bail and Zimmerman should be ordered to remain on no bail status until trial.
After the hearing, the prosecutor should bring separate and new charges of perjury. Perjury is plain and simple—lying under oath. And plain and simple, Shelly Zimmerman lied under oath. At a minimum, both conspired to commit perjury. George Zimmerman, who passively sat listening to his wife's known untruthful testimony, should be charged with conspiracy to commit perjury.
Lying to the judge should get your get out of jail card permanently revoked. And that's exactly what Judge Lester should do. Perhaps the second time around will be the charm when Zimmerman will be forced to remain on no bail status until his trial date—for Trayvon Martin's killing and on any new perjury charges.
Debbie Hines is a former prosecutor and legal /political commentator appearing in national and local media including the Michael Eric Dyson Show, NBC, ABC and CBS affiliates, RT TV, CBC- Canadian TV, NPR, XM Sirius radio, the Wall Street Journal, Washington Post, USA Today, Black Enterprise among others. She founded LegalSpeaks, a progressive blog on women and race in law and politics. She also writes for the Huffington Post.


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The typical procedure to weave a beaded spheroid is to start from a 5- or 6-bead group, then use the right-angle weave technique to extend outward by adding more 5- or 6-bead groups aroud the central (first)-bead group in a spiral fashion. Whenever a 5-bead group is introduced, negative surface curvature is created, and thus the surface would be curved inward. According the Euler theory, to close a spheroid, 12 pentagons are needed. Thus along the path of spiral, we can put any number of hexagon we want, but a total number of 12 pentagons are needed to get a closed spheroid. Of course, if the sequence is arbitray, many of the structures are going to have very high energy. When a spheroidal fullerene can be contructed in this way, the thread will go through each each exactly twice, the amount of thread needed will simply s*2*N*d, where s is the scaling parameter to take the part of thread outside the beads into account.
According to the work by the British chemist, Fowler, there exist a class of fullerene system which can not be described by this way. An example is tetrahedral C380 as shown in his book entitled "An Atlas of Fullerenes". For this kind of system, we probably have to use longer lenth of thread because some beads will be stitched more than two times.


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ance of affluence at home; an affluence that may aid pernicious measures, but, at last, must be destructive: in its consequences.
I cannot take my leave of you, without congratulating you on the benefaction conferred on mankind by M. Necker. I have read more than once his excellent work; and some of the concluding chapters with ecstasy and tears. I flatter myself, that the princes of the earth will read it, and that some of them will be affected as I have been; and perhaps some of their ministers. I need not say, that many of his thoughts have been yours and my own, though I have never been able to express them with the elegance he has done.* In 1772, and 1777, I gave to Lord North two or three sheets; in the former year, on the subject of money ; in the latter, on that of peace. The opinions therein contained, I now find confirmed by an authority that I respect without bounds. I am, my dear Sir, your affectionate and faithful servant,
Lyons, 30 June, 1785.
The Academy of Sciences, Belles Lettres, and Arts, of Lyons, informed by a letter from the Abbé Chalut,
* Necker's treatise, entitled Administration des Finances, was published in 1784. It is stated in the Biographie Universelle, that eighty thousand copies were sold in a few days. The writer adds; "Jamais sujet aussi sérieux n'avait excité une curiosité mani universelle. C'etait sans doute une chose nouvelle dans les habitudes d'une monarchie absolue, que de voir un ministre en retraite publier solennellement qu'il se consolait des disgraces de la cour avec les suffrages de la nation." that you would willingly accept the title of its associate, hastened to offer it to you by a unanimous vote, and charges me to inform you of your election. We all feel, and we feel deeply, how much honor a name like yours confers upon a literary society, whose principal object is the study of the natural sciences, upon which you have shed so much light, and in which, at every step, we meet monuments consecrated to your discoveries.
During the last years of my residence at Paris, my heart often beat with joy, when I had an opportunity of joining my applause to that, which all France seemed to think due to you, wherever you appeared. I am still more happy at this time, since I am requested, in the name of my fellow citizens, to add one modest flower to the wreaths with which you are crowned, and am allowed the personal gratification of offering to you the homage of my profound veneration. The Academy has directed me to send to you the list of its members, and a table of the prizes, which have hitherto been given. I shall venture to add a dissertation on the laws of Lycurgus, by the author of the Testament de fortuné Ricard, which you condescended to receive with kindness, and your approbation of which has filled him with the liveliest gratitude. I have the honor to be, &c.
Lausanne, 3 July, 1785.
editor and bookseller of my map and description of the States of America. I had already done in the matter every thing in my power when I was on the spot, and pressed the point stronger than I should have done, had it been for my account; but, when I considered it, as what I really wished, the doing an act of charity to the daughter of an ingenious and illtreated man,* I exerted more pains about it than is my ordinary custom. I wished to make my intended charity as efficient and productive as possible. If I were on the spot I could not do more. I have prepared a second edition, with very many additions. If you will recommend to me any person who will translate it into French, I will publish this edition in France and give the whole profits to Evans's daughter.
I am told you are on the point of returning to your own country, a country which you have not only saved, but formed into a State, independent and sovereign. You must excuse me when I say what I feel, that I envy you. God has not only made you an instrument of good to your country, but has given you the most supreme of all happiness in this world, that of seeing your country and all the world acknowledging your deeds; that of, therefore, living to receive from their acknowledgments your reward in this world. It was your happiness to be in a situation of exerting your abilities in a line of politics, in which providence had designed to lead the affairs of men.
I wished, in my line of conduct, to have served a country, which, alas! I could not, at least would not, believe was too far gone in corruption of all sorts, but especially in corruption of politics, to be served. This corruption sunk to ignorance and inspired with inso
* Lewis Evans, the geographer.
lence the nation, and Providence gave it leaders and governors exactly calculated to lead it to its just punishment. But, whatever my habitual love to my native country was, I thank God I always had a feeling for the welfare of the English nation, which superseded all local considerations; and I am happy in my hopes, that real political liberty, with all its concomitant and consequent happiness, will be established in that branch of the English nation, which Providence planted and nurtured in America. Providence now holds this out to them, and may they have the temper and wisdom to see what is their real interest, or, at least, to take the advice of those who do see. If God grants you life and health, what a glorious scene in this great drama have you before you, in giving and persuading your country to take your advice, as to the settlement of their independence in a sovereignty free and efficient to all the purposes of liberty and their real interest. I have the pleasing consciousness to think, that my Memoir* addressed to them, will not, when understood, be entirely useless and inefficient to those ends.
Adieu, my dear friend. You are going to a new world, formed to exhibit a scene which the old world never yet saw. You leave me here in the old world, which, like myself, begins to feel, as Asia hath felt, that it is wearing out apace. We shall never meet again on this earth; but there is another world, where we shall meet, and where we shall be understood, and those of us, who shall not have our reward here, will have it in all fulness there. If you receive this, pray let me hear from you before you depart, but more especially, if you have leisure, when you arrive at home. Studying the state of this country, with reference to what I know (as the workman knows his own metier) of America, I see many things which might be useful for America to copy. A temperate spirit and a homely wisdom have established real liberty and actual happiness here, with surer and a longer permanency, than any other country ever yet enjoyed in quiet. I shall not neglect to collect these experiences with reference to America; and if I can communicate them to you, or to any one where I can be sure they will be of use, I will with pleasure do it; and the more so, as I find, that the very spirit and true foundation of the constitutions of this country have not been understood ; first, by scribbling voyagers; and next, less so by speculating writers, who write from system, not from fuct. Once more, my dear friend, adieu. May you have an easy passage, with as little pain as possible, and a happy arrival at your home. Remember your old and affectionate friend,
* A tract entitled, "Memorial addressed to the Sovereigns of America," published, 1783.
Leaves Passy. — Travels to Havre in the King's Litter.
Passy, 4 July, 1785. DEAR FRIEND, By this post I have given orders to engage a fine ship, now at London, to carry me and my family to Philadelphia. My baggage is already on the Seine, going down to Havre, from whence, if the captain cannot call for us there, we shall cross the channel, and meet him at Cowes, in the Isle of Wight. The ship has a large, convenient cabin, with good lodgingplaces. The whole to be at my disposition, and there


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Single Mercruiser 3.0 Liter engine (Approximately 1023 hrs), 12.5 KW Westerbeke Generator (Approximately 5,308 hrs), Vetus Electronic Stern Thruster. Flybridge, Canvas Party Top, Roof Top Bar w/ sink, Top Deck Carpet, Radar Arch, Roof Davit.
Swim Platform, Rail Canvas, Battery Charger, Remote Spotlight, Depth Finder, Rudder Indicator, Halon System. Goodman Central Heat Air, Smooth Top Range, Side by Side Refrigerator w/ Ice & Water in Door.
4 Bedrooms; 4 Queens, 2 Full Bathroom w/ 2 Type 1 Purasan Systems. Roof Repainted In 2015, Party Top Rope Lights, Front Side Stairs, Back Spiral Stairs.
2- 75 Gallon Fuel Tanks, 2- 65 Gallon Fresh Water Tanks. Remodeled Lower Births w/ Multi Tile Windowsills, Draperies Completely Relined. Roof Top Completely Resurfaced w/ Sanitred In 2011. Lower Unit Maintenance Done In 2014, Slip is Transferable.
Brokers Note:
Engine and lower units have recently been serviced, and is in top mechanical condition.
Tom Miller


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Los Medanos College, our local community college, can help you find employees for your business!
Employment Services
Are you an Off-Campus Employer Looking to Hire LMC Students & Alumni?
Employment Services is a place where students, alumni, and employers can interact quickly, easily and efficiently through posting and communication on LMC's College Central Network database.
Post Jobs Online!
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Career Pathways
Programs at Los Medanos College provide students the skills necessary to succeed in a highly competitive global economy. LMC makes it easier for students to understand their options and choose the career that matches their interests; in partnership with its feeder high schools, ROP, Adult Education, CSU, and industry/business partners, LMC has established several career pathways from school to college to work.
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Paintings featuring numbers or text break up a salon wall really well. Jack Burton's work feels playful, with numerals seemingly from a child's game of hopscotch incongruously placed over a densely saturated image of a beautiful tree. Jack's print is called a hybrid, in the sense that it begins as a digital print with two colours screenprinted over the top. A varnish overlay over the white beautifully picks up the light and makes the numbers pop out from the background. Kate Bryan, Soho House Head of Collections, says: 'I like Jack Burton's language because it's really peculiar but without ever closing you off - it's a bit surreal but there's a definite open entry, come in, play around with this image.'• The Numbers by Jack Burton• Archival Inkjet with two colour and varnish overlays on Somerset Satin 330gsm Paper• Edition of 25• Cut Edge• H60 x W42cm• Pieces featured at Soho House 40 Greek Street and Redchurch Street Townhouse
Dispatched within 3-5 days
Availability: In stock
Archival Inkjet with 2 Colour and Varnish Overlays on Somerset Satin 330gsm PaperDimensions: H60 x W42cm
Please note that frame is not included.
Please note, based on the items in your cart only the relevant delivery options will be offered at checkout.
In light of Covid_19 restrictions, we have extended our returns policy from 28 to 90 days until further notice. All other terms and conditions related to returns and refunds apply.
If for any reason you aren't completely satisfied with your goods, contact our Customer Care team and we will help you in every way possible. Any unwanted item, unless faulty, must be returned, undamaged and unused, in a re-saleable condition, with all original packaging and labels.
To return your order please contact our Customer care team on 020 3819 8199 to organise the correct return method for your unwanted goods.
For more information on delivery including international shipping charges please see our Delivery & Returns Page


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Primary among the many benefits of matcha green tea powder is its abundance of antioxidants. When ingested, these antioxidants help combat free radicals and give your immune system a healthy boost, but matcha can also be used on the outside to help treat sun-damaged skin and reduce inflammation, not unlike the ever-soothing aloe vera.
While the high antioxidant content in matcha is lauded for a number of benefits, when it comes to skin care, the high chlorophyll content in matcha is responsible for no small part of its anti-inflammatory properties. By creating a matcha face mask, not only will users find relief from minor sunburns, but those with sensitive skin will also reap the benefit of natural UV protection (though never enough to forgo sunscreen completely). For those that suffer from Rosacea, even though it has no reported cure, matcha green tea powder face masks may help to reduce the redness and inflammation associated with the condition.
However, those interested in a matcha face treatment don't need to have irritated or damaged skin. The polyphenol content in matcha can help give any skin a natural glow. Matcha face treatments lend to clearer, smoother skin that lends to that coveted dewy look.
Fortunately, a matcha face mask is no great scientific undertaking to make. One teaspoon of the green tea powder is mixed in equal part with raw honey and water is used to create a thick paste. After left on for 10 - 20 minutes then washed off, users will reap all the benefits as well as having enticingly scented skin. You can also substitute the honey for other ingredients such as coconut oil or raw sugar.
While our premium green tea powder is too good not to drink, our organic everyday matcha is perfect for every occasion - from having a quick matcha latte to baking some fantastic treats or even being used for a quick spa experience to give your skin a healthy glow. Shop online today and get started with your own matcha green tea revolution.


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Asian Tribune is published by E-LANKA MEDIA(PVT)Ltd. Vol. 20 No. 79
Tamil MPs are irrelevant and they should resign for not.....
[b]Tamil MPs are irrelevant and they should resign for not acting against EU travel ban – V. Navaratnam[/b]
[b]Montreal, 18 October, (Asiantribune.com): [/b]Reacting to the EU travel ban on the LTTE, V. Navaratnam, the former Ilankai Thamil Arasu Kadchchi ( ITAK – Federal Party) MP, now residing in Canada, states that "the position of the Tamil National Alliance (TNA) MPs has become irrelevant in Parliamentary and diplomatic life in Colombo" they should "resign their seats in Parliament en bloc and get out of Colombo."
He added: "It is the least that is expected of them by their electors, the Tamils, to show the resentment and anger of the people at the EU's caving in to Colombo and appearing to stand behind South Ceylon in the latter's genocidal activities against theTamils."
Communicating this to a fellow Tamil in America he wrote: "I think it (the travel ban) is an instigated mischief that the European Union (EU) of 25 countries of the Western World has thought it fit to insult the Tamils by making a public declaration which is so derogatory of the Tamils as a people. They may claim that it is against the LTTE only. But the EU is well aware that in all negotiations concerning the Tamil problem, LTTE means the Tamils, and Tamils means the LTTE.
"For reasons best known to itself the EU declares that the LTTE (= Tamils) are no longer admissible into its member states. One is unable to think of the real reason behind this Declaration. The declared reason, namely violence and terrorism, cannot be the real reason because the EU's current president, Britain, itself resorted to violence and terrorism to shoot and kill Pandaara Vannian from behind a hiding place and seize his kingdom and amalgamate it through Captain Colebrooke with the Singhalese South Ceylon. So the real reason must be different.


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by Norm Shrout
Long Leash on Life
How can this be, you ask? It's hard and crunchy, right? Dry food brands allege that their dry food help keep your pet's teeth clean. Many companies put these claims on their packaging. Curiously, the pet food industry allows these unscientific claims, but they are far from the truth. This leaves pet parents believing that dry food not only cleans teeth, but that no other pet oral care measures are needed. The unfortunate oral-integrity losers are the pets.
To clean teeth, dry pet food would need to cause consistent and substantial abrasive action against the pet's tooth during chewing, especially near the gum line. In reality, dry food shatters when the pet's teeth apply pressure to it, forming a sticky paste that smears across the teeth. This is a perfect medium in which plaque (the start of oral hygiene problems) can form. Another compounding factor is the substantial amounts of simple carbs contained in most dry pet foods that tend to aggressively stick to the teeth.
Dental disease has become firmly entrenched as the number one health condition in pets; nearly 80% of cats and dogs have some degree of dental disease by age three. That's because the vast majority of pets are consuming dry food alone, without any other oral hygiene protocols. Another unfortunate factor is that periodontal disease can contribute to other systemic health issues like heart disease, diabetic complications, as well as kidney and liver concerns.
Pet parents can prevent periodontal disease by investing 5 minutes a day on pet teeth brushing. This is the most effective way to remove food particles and disrupt plaque growth, which can return in as little as 24 hours. Another proven method is a specific seaweed food additive. Don't rule out the added effectiveness of supervised chewing on safe, durable chews, including animal body parts and high quality dental chews. Keep in mind that wolves are not stricken with the periodontal disease that dogs endure because they do not consume processed dry food and they chew on raw bones.
It is understandable that the convenience of dry pet food makes it so universal. But if you stop and actually look at the drawbacks of feeding non-ancestral dry pet food, poor oral hygiene is just one of many reasons not to rely on it exclusively. Dry pet food is highly processed, exactly like human fast food. So it should not come as a surprise that is has more substantial health risks associated with it than the fewer benefits.
In closing, the next time you might be shopping for dry pet food, please consider the many other types of pet food that may be better for your pets' oral integrity including dehydrated, freeze-dried, and fresh diets, as well as home prepared meals. Ask your local independent retailer, they will confirm that these foods can have a more positive effect on your pet's dental dynamics. When it comes to their oral hygiene, health and overall well-being, it is clear that pets cannot live by dry food alone.
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Foreclosures are getting harder and harder to find, but we're here to help you in your search. If you are in the market for a short sale, foreclosed or REO property, please contact us to get the latest list. Though we display the most recent foreclosures listed in our MLS, not all properties make it online. They sell too quickly!
To be in the know when it comes to foreclosures, you need a licensed real estate agent working for you on the inside. We'd love to help you keep track of the latest opportunities in [area]. If you want to view properties today, please don't wait for an email reply, call us at [phone] for the fastest service.
Probably best for you to reach out to me for an advanced search options. (408) 431-7202
You can search for homes by clicking here. search home for sale in almost every county of CA.


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Keep your home and business cool even when the outside temperature is rising. By hiring us to maintain your air-conditioning systems, we can help save you money. Through our service contracts, you can avoid expensive breakdowns that come when your system is not properly maintained.
Make the effort today to get your air-conditioning system working like it should and avoid the hassle of repair after repair. We offer the 24-hour emergency service so you don't have to wait long for a technician to help you.
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New Delhi [India] Apr. 29 (ANI): Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday announced a summer internship linked to the 'Swachh Bharat' campaign.
Speaking during his monthly radio address 'Mann Ki Baat,' he urged the youths of the country to take part in the 'Swachh Bharat Summer internship' to make this initiative a success.
"My young companions, I am urging you today for a very special internship. Three ministries of the Indian government have announced the 'Swachh Bharat Summer internship'. This is an opportunity for college students, National Cadet Corps (NCC), National Service Scheme (NSS), Nehru Yuva Kendra Sangathan volunteers, and people who want to do something for the society and the country," Prime Minister Modi said.
The internship is an initiative of the Sports, Human Resource Development (HRD) and Water Ministry.
The 'Swachh Bharat Abhiyan', launched in 2014 on Gandhi Jayanti, aims to clean up the streets, roads and infrastructure of smaller towns, cities and rural areas.
Further, the objectives of the mission include construction of household-owned and community-owned toilets, to make India open-defecation free. (ANI)


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How to Unblock a Callby Matt McGew
If you have a blocked phone number, your name and number will not appear on the caller ID display of the call recipient when you make outgoing phone calls. You can, however, unblock your information on a call-by-call basis when making outgoing telephone calls. Typically, unblocked phone numbers will display both the name and number associated with the telephone line on caller ID displays when making outgoing telephone calls.
Step 1
Lift your telephone's handset.
Step 2
Dial "*82" using your telephone's keypad.
Enter the phone number you want to call to connect and unblock your caller ID information.


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Bike 2 Leadership is a pilot program for high school students in Vancouver, Washington. Students can learn how to fix and maintain bikes, and earn a free bike at the end of the day camp while learning leadership skills. This project was taken on as part of a design competition for the Summer 2016 Illustrator class. The client wanted colors that matched Bike Clark County's brand. Students were free to create whatever they thought would be eye-catching to high school students.
Out of a full class of submissions, this was the chosen logo.
Project Type
July 2016
Bike Clark County
Adobe Illustrator, CMYK Pantone


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Palestinian Barbarism Update
The terrorist attack committed against the Fogel family and the Jewish community at Itamar in Samaria Israel is probably one of the most heinous terror acts committed against Jews in some time. But we only need to remember our history to realize that the Palestinians excel at killing Jewish children, having murdered at least 123 in acts of terror since 2000. Today Palestinians are passing out candy to celebrate and Mahmoud Abbas, the leader of the Palestinian Authority, refuses to condemn the murders. The western mainstream leftwing media is actually blaming the people of Itamar for their own murders, which is par for the media who have a deep-seated hatred of Israel. The New York Times reported that the proximity of the Jewish 'settlement' to the Palestinian town of Awarta caused the incident:
"The killers appeared to have randomly picked the house, one of a neat row of identical one-story homes at the edge of the settlement, on a rocky incline overlooking the nearby Palestinian village of Awarta — the proximity underlining the visceral nature of the contest in this area between Jewish settlers and Palestinians over the land."
It is shameful and a crime against humanity to support known terrorist organization such as the PA Fatah faction who is responsible for the murders at Itamar according to sources in Israel, and both the media and the United States government are in bed with the PA. It is also a crime to suggest that because there was a Jewish settlement, the blame for the murders lie at the feet of the town of Itamar, as the New York Times clearly is suggesting.
David Horowitz, conservative commentator and author of many books on the Middle East and Israel and the Front Page Mag website stated that, "No people have shown themselves as so morally sick as the Palestinians." He also noted that "In the history of humanity, there was never a people who strapped bombs on their bodies and killed innocent people. No other people has sunk so low as the Palestinians, and everyone is afraid to say it." Horowitz, himself was one a left-wing academic, educated at Columbia University and part of the New Left in the 1960's.
In regard to the Palestinian claims to the Land of Israel, it is common knowledge that historically the name Palestinian always refered to the Jewish people. There never was a Palestinian nation in the land of Israel since the days of the Roman conquest. There most certainly was not a Palestine in 1946. The wars against the Jews started in the guise of Pan-Arab nationalism and the Palestinian Liberation Organization was created by the KGB. Arafat was advised that the best way to succeed is to play the role of the victim and claim that the only thing they want is their land back which Israel is supposedly occupying. Israel since the days of the Roman occupation has never given up their rights to the land that HaShem gave them in covenant over 3400 years ago. During the Jewish Peoples long captivity in the nations of the world, the land of Israel languished and was a desolation. The few Arabs that actually occupied the land did nothing to cultivate it and only when the Jewish people began returning to the Land of Israel did it again begin to blossom.
One only need to travel to Israel to experience the Palestinian culture of death. Every Palestinian town I was ever in was dreary and grey. Palestinians do not typically plant many trees or flowers. But if you travel to the so-called Jewish settlements, they are full of life. Jews love to plants trees, bushes and flowers. The difference between the two are as night and day. It will be a sad day indeed when Israel bends to the pressure of the Jew hating media and Western Governments and allows a Palestinian state to exist. If this state ever comes into existence, that will be the end of the state of Israel.
~ by healthzombie on March 14, 2011.
Posted in Islam, Islamic Fundamentalism, Israel, Terrorism, Uncategorized
Tags: Israeli governmant, Itamar, Palestine, Palestinian State, palestinian terror, State of Israel, terrorism, the Palestinian Authority


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Triage by Biser Rangelov
English | Mystery & Thriller | ePUB, MOBI | 907 KB
After losing his license to practice, disgraced psychologist Dr. Victor Callahan aka "Dr. V." lapses into the murk of clinical depression. That might have been the end of him had his supportive wife Ann not encouraged him to do something, anything, to get out of the house. The good Doctor indulges his wife by embarking on a fishing trip at a nearby lake where he meets Nikita Vankin an autistic savant who is addicted to personality-altering popsicles laced with psychoactive chemicals. Nikita persuades the reluctant doctor to reveal the three wishes that he most hopes will come true. Serving as Nikita's mentor, Doctor V. lays the groundwork for his new protégé to unveil Triage, a previously undreamt of neuropsychological cerebral imaging process that has the power to change the world as we know it, for better or for worse.
It will be up to Dr. V. and Nikita to rise to the challenge of leveraging their own expertise to realize the only acceptable outcome that they can live with; he and Nikita are thrust into the future by harnessing the powers of Triage to enter the true final frontier, the human psyche itself, the realm where dreams come true and some wishes are doomed to fail. Coming to the aid of others, including a suicidal adolescent, a pregnant high school student, a child sexual predator and a rogue Gulf War veteran driven to the edge by the demons of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, patients whose problems are ripped from the headlines of contemporary life in a beleaguered world, we join Dr. V. and Nikita as they take on matters that are literally a matter of life and death and inextricably intertwined with the redemptive powers of love and forgiveness.


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Neighbourhood: Beaverbrook | MLS #: 1026877
Style: Detached | Type: 2 Storey | Bedrooms: 3 | Bathrooms: 4
A one of a kind opportunity in Kanata's premiere neighbourhood. Architecturally enhanced & expanded Cape Cod home situated on Beaverbrook's most coveted street and backing on the Kanata Golf Club. No expense has been spared to make this a truly special place to call home. The ground floor has been redesigned expanding the kitchen & opening the principal rooms to provide a wonderful flowing floor plan. There has also been a substantial addition to this lovely home which was carefully designed to blend with the existing architecture. The kitchen, designed by Deslaurier, is a chef's dream with 5 burner cooktop, corian counters, a huge island, preparation areas and much more. All of the major components of this home have been replaced and upgraded. Gleaming hardwood floors & wood trims as well as flat finish ceilings throughout the main levels. Upper level offers enormous bedroom spaces, 7 skylights and a fabulous ensuite bath. Stunning landscaping, well developed basement. A rare find!
Basement: Full
Basement Development: Fully finished
Parking: Detached Double Garage
Spaces: 4
Year built: 1965
Taxes: $5680.00 /2016
Flooring: Hardwood, Tile, Carpet Wall to Wall
Fireplace: 1 gas
Heating Desc: Forced Air Natural Gas
Air: Central Air
Appliances: Thermador Cook Top, Oven & Hood Fan, Microwave, Dishwasher, Miele Washer & Dryer, Refrigerator & Freezer in Basement.
Inclusions: All Window Blinds, Automatic Garage Door Opener, Security System, Inground Sprinkler System
Rental Equipment: Hot Water Tank
Exterior Finish: Brick, Wood Siding
Lot size: 70′ x 160′
Site Influences: Landscaped, Family Oriented, Treed Lot, Patio
Neighbourhood Influences: Golf Nearby, Playground Nearby, Shopping Nearby, Recreation Nearby


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Journal Article (2)
1.Journal ArticleControl of thermally stable core-shell nano-precipitates in additively manufactured Al–Sc–Zr alloys. Additive Manufacturing 32, 100910 (2020)
2.Journal ArticleExperimental Study of the Fe–Ni–Ti System. Intermetallics 18 (3), pp. 374 - 384 (2010)
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3.TalkProcess and Alloy Design for In-Situ Precipitation Strengthening of Al–Sc Alloys During Laser Metal Deposition. Metal Additive Manufacturing Conference, Vienna, Austria (2018)
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4.PosterPreventing the Coarsening of Al3Sc Precipitates by the Formation of a Zr-rich Shell During Laser Metal Deposition. Alloys for Additive Manufacturing Symposium, Sheffield, UK (2018)


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As you may know from my twenty week pregnancy update we recently celebrated our fourth wedding anniversary. What might that have to do with baby loss you might ask? Well of course this time last year I was in my first trimester with Silver Rose and blissfully unaware how unwell she was. In fact, I was the one who was unwell! We had made plans to go to a new pancake house we had discovered which have a full vegan menu. It was meant to be a simple day where we took Beau and went out for a little treat. Instead I couldn't even leave the house that day. Morning sickness with Silver was extreme! Well, actually it was more nausea than actually throwing up but it was an intense three months.
Would you believe we've never once thought to go to that pancake house since? I'm not sure why but as our anniversary approached and my morning sickness this time despite being more persistent is milder and manageable the thought came back of going to the pancake house. We were dog sitting at the time so a few other ideas we had wouldn't have worked, such as I've been craving a greasy pizza takeaway recently and there is meant to be a good vegan place in Manchester – three hours away! We were pretty stuck for ideas and didn't want to splash too much cash so decided it would be a nice thing to do as a family to go for pancakes and walk around the beautiful city of York, enjoying the change of seasons (and a starbucks!).
I'm in two minds of how I feel about going for pancakes that day. On the day I started to feel pretty down about it and was very retrospective and nostalgic. I think the thing that hit me the most is knowing that this time last year I honestly had no idea Silver was unwell, I simply thought I was "dying" from morning sickness and just wanted to give birth. Hindsight isn't always a wonderful thing. I now realise that even in this pregnancy where I want to complain because my body feels horrible I am so grateful just to be blessed with a healthy baby and I'm also so much more aware of how I speak about my pregnancy. I make sure not to complain too much and suddenly silly little comments like "I feel like I'm dying" take on a different meaning and I realise how insensitive these can be. Silver put my life into perspective which I am forever grateful for.
As I said however, it was quite a triggering event and at times I wanted to cry, realising how my life has changed and trying to process this is something I'm still struggling with. On the other hand, after speaking with a friend I can also see how in some ways maybe this was our subconscious way of still involving Silver in our special day. I wish I had taken her picture with me so I can say she had finally reached this pancake house. Their food was absolutely delicious and I will be making a point to go back the next time we are in York. Its funny how to them we will have just been regular customers but to us this meal was not only special for our Anniversary but also has a special place in our heart because it reminds us of the good times with Silver. The times when we were so excited and hopeful of bringing a baby home.
We did actually announce our rainbow babies name on this day also. Its nice to feel that Silver and Leilani have a special day where they are connected. A day where we celebrated Silver's life, Leilani's life and of course our anniversary. I have a separate blog post on our name announcement if you'd like to take a read! Because we had been so disorganized with the announcement and up all night the previous night my pregnant body needed to sleep in a bit on the anniversary before we went to my parents around lunchtime to announce the gender. This meant after pancakes its was getting pretty late in York so we simply went for a walk, enjoying the city and park, vegan pumpkin spice in hand before heading home. And yes, for some reason Beau decided to suck his toes while waiting for Starbucks… (Is this normal for a two year old?)
On the way home that night Beau fell asleep in the car as usual, sucking on his blanket. Normally I take pictures because I think it adorable but for some reason on this day he looked different, just the way he held his mouth as his blanket fell out of his mouth. It sounds awful but I honestly panicked and thought he had passed away, his mouth looked just like Silver's had after she passed away and her lips had parted. It was the scariest thing to see and I had to check he was breathing, I guess that's just what happens to you once you've lost a child. You become over protective. I know Beau is too old for SIDS risk now but I still worry in case anything would happen to him and honestly don't think I could cope. It has completely broken my heart seeing SIDS cases on Instagram and how completely devastated the parents are that had an otherwise healthy baby they had spent so much time loving and cherishing.
As it was late by the time we got home that evening Beau ate separately to us. I then realised I'd made another triggering mistake. I had thought how nice it would be to treat ourselves to all our favourite oriental foods from Marks and Sparks. Yep, not totally glamorous and just as expensive as a meal out but nonetheless it was easiest with Beau and Loki. The only problem is I'm pretty sure the last time we ate those foods was in Crawford house, one or two days before Silver passed away. We had actually gone to York the day before our anniversary to do all our errands so we could be more relaxed on the day but even walking into Marks and Spencer's was a trigger. It always has been ever since Newcastle. It was our way of getting into town so we walked through it often and when Silver was well I had looked at the baby clothes for her too, now a painful reminder.
So what should have been a nice romantic meal was a very late exhausted tea with painful sentimental reminders. Don't get me wrong the tea was lovely and I would have it again but remembering those last few days is the hardest. Mostly because she was doing so well and everything was looking up. We moved Beau and lots of our home items up to Newcastle expecting to be living up there for several months. Her passing was so unexpected and such a painful shock that I find it hard to think about those days in Crawford House. This particular picture below I find hard to look at, we were having lunch in Crawford House on the 27th Feb getting ready to go see Silver. I was so excited because Fabian had spoke with the nurses and arranged that I could have my first ever cuddle with her. I felt so happy, Silver was doing well and life seemed to finally be looking up and moving in a positive direction. 24 hours later and I was cradling a dead baby and trying to process the shock through my sleep deprived head.
I didn't actually cry on our anniversary but I did spend a lot of time thinking about Silver, picturing her face and remembering how she felt to touch. Sometimes I cope pretty well, probably because I'm so distracted with Beau and this pregnancy but other times the reality really does hit hard. I feel so guilty at times because I want nothing more than to have her back, she's my baby and I want her. But if I had her I wouldn't have Leilani, and I don't ever want Leilani to feel she is second to Silver or a replacement. I don't know how to balance the love I feel for both of them as it feels impossible for them to coexist in my heart. They contradict each other. I have tried to take a different perspective and acknowledge the reality of Silver, realising that right now I have one living daughter who deserves so much love, the same love I gave to Silver as I tried everything to save her. I love Silver as my little angel who will forever be an angel now, and I love Leilani as my growing, living baby.
I can imagine over the coming months how hard at times it will be, looking back on what I was doing one year from now. I find it strange being pregnant again one year on, it almost feels like a do over but I have to keep reminding myself it isn't and give myself harsh reality checks. I will be writing a separate post about the approach to Christmas as I feel this is something a lot of grieving parents along with myself and Fabian are going to find extremely difficult. All in all it was a very emotional day we had but I'm so glad looking back that I did have twenty weeks with Silver filled with hope and wouldn't go back and change the fact we were unaware and able to enjoy some of the pregnancy.
Until next time,
Holly x


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2017 Constituent Survey
Delegate Randall J. Minchew
The General Assembly will be in session this year from January 11 – February 25, 2017. As your views are important to me and can be helpful as I represent you in Richmond, I hope you will take a few minutes to complete the survey below. There will be an opportunity to offer comments at the end. As always, please do not hesitate to contact me with any concerns or questions at
. I look forward to serving you.
-Delegate Randy Minchew
Please complete the following:
First Name
Last Name
Zip Code
Email Address
1. The General Assembly will be considering amendments to the previously adopted 2016-2018 budget this session. What budget-related matters are most important to you?
Please rank your responses 1 = Highest Priority, 9 = Lowest Priority
Highest Priority
Lowest Priority
Fostering job-creation and economic development
Improving roads in our region
Expanding transit opportunities in our region
Providing additional state funding for public K-12 education
Providing additional state funding for public universities and community colleges
Providing additional state funding for parkland acquisition and open space preservation
Providing more assistance for people living in poverty
Avoiding tax increases
Reducing government spending
2. School choice refers to the idea that parents and children should have a variety of traditional and non-traditional educational options available to ensure that each student's learning experience helps them meet their full potential. Which of the following school choice options do you support?
Check all that apply.
Traditional Charter Schools (tuition-free public schools that operate independently from the school district's central administration)
Public Charter Schools (such as Middleburg and Hillsboro Charter Schools, which work in conjunction with the school district's central administration and can lease existing school buildings)
Full-time Virtual Schools (virtual schools are online public "schools" that offer a comprehensive curriculum like traditional brick and mortar schools)
Virtual Classrooms, integrated into traditional school setting
State funding for primary and secondary education should be confined to our public K-12 schools
3. Of the following options, how do you think the General Assembly should address the rising cost of higher education? [Check all that apply.]
Increase state funding for colleges and universities, recognizing the funds will be pulled from other sources or require increased taxes.
Limit or restrict student auxiliary and athletic fees, recognizing the funds will be pulled from other sources or require increased taxes.
Reform and prioritize financial aid distribution to serve more middle- and low- income students.
4. Which of the following best describes your view on early childhood education in Virginia?
Universal Pre-K improves long-term educational and economic outcomes and should be provided through the public schools to all children in Virginia.
Universal Pre-K offers little tangible benefit and would increase class sizes, force local school divisions to take on debt in order to build new classrooms, and cost the state nearly $600 million per year. The private sector and the Head Start programs for underprivileged children provide sufficient access to early childhood education in Virginia.
Though more early childhood education opportunities are needed in Virginia, universal Pre-K is not the right approach; instead, access to private early childhood education providers should be expanded.
Additional early childhood education opportunities in Virginia are not currently needed.
5. In 2012, the General Assembly created a program that allowed businesses to claim a tax credit in exchange for helping fund scholarships to private schools for underserved students. Do you support or oppose expanding this initiative to provide underserved students with access to private early childhood education opportunities?
6 . Existing state law provides that the State Corporation Commission (SCC) shall approve any requested toll increases on the Dulles Greenway. Should this law be amended to allow the SCC greater discretion in the review and approval of these increases?
Yes, the law should be amended.
No, the law should not be amended.
7. As chair of the House of Delegates Ethics Subcommittee, I have worked to put into place a number of reforms to Virginia's transparency, disclosure and ethics laws. Those reforms include creating a $100 gift cap, creating a statewide ethics advisory commission, requiring more frequent disclosures, requiring all disclosure forms to be posted online, and requiring mandatory ethics training for elected officials. Which of the following do you believe?
These reforms are not sufficient.
These reforms are almost enough, but some additional work is necessary.
These reforms are sufficient.
8. Would you support legislation making it easier for felons who claim they were wrongly convicted to present new evidence on appeal?
9. Would you support or oppose tougher penalties on repeat domestic violence offenders?
10. Legislation may be considered this session which would automatically restore voting rights to persons who have been convicted of non-violent crimes and have both completed their prison sentences and paid any required fines. Should the law be changed in this way?
11. In recent years, Virginia has experienced a rise in opiate substance abuse and related criminal offenses. Drug courts are special courts designed to reduce substance abuse among nonviolent offenders through judicially supervised treatment, mandatory periodic drug testing, community supervision, and use of appropriate sanctions and rehabilitation services. Would you support or oppose legislation to expand drug courts in Virginia?
12. Currently, Virginia voters do not register by political party. Legislation may be considered this session to allow voters in Virginia to register by political party if they choose to do so. Allowing registration by party could allow for state-run primary elections to be restricted to only registered party voters. Should the law be changed to allow for political party registration?
13. Do you support the exploration of natural gas and oil off the coastal water areas of Virginia?
14. Do you support providing state funding for research on alternative energy sources such as wind, solar, and biomass?
15. Does your public street or a nearby road need maintenance? If so, please identify the street or road by name and general area below, giving an indication of the current issue. While I cannot promise immediate attention, I will make certain that VDOT evaluates the situation.
16. Please use this space to expand on any answers given above or to share thoughts on other issues of particular concern to you that could be addressed by the General Assembly.