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VATICAN CITY — The Vatican has taken testimony from a man who says ex-Cardinal Theodore McCarrick sexually abused him for years starting when he was 11, evidence that the initial case against the retired archbishop has expanded to include serious allegations of sexual misconduct, including in the confessional.
James Grein testified Thursday in New York before the judicial vicar for the New York City archdiocese, who was asked by the Holy See to take his statement, said Grein’s civil attorney Patrick Noaker.
Grein’s claims, first reported by The New York Times, are more serious. He has alleged that McCarrick, a family friend, first exposed himself to Grein when he was 11 and then sexually molested him for years thereafter.
Noaker said in his testimony Thursday, Grein also gave “chilling” details about alleged repeated incidents of groping during confession — a serious canonical crime on top of the original offense of sexually abusing a minor.
Noaker said combining sexual abuse with confession haunts Grein today.
McCarrick denied the initial groping allegation of the altar boy and has said through his lawyer that he looks forward to his right to due process. It wasn’t clear when his testimony would be given.
The McCarrick scandal has sparked a crisis in credibility in the U.S. and Vatican hierarchies, since it was apparently an open secret in some church circles that “Uncle Ted” slept with adult seminarians. Yet McCarrick still rose to the heights of church power, and even acted as the spokesman for U.S. bishops when they enacted a “zero tolerance” policy against sexually abusive priests in 2002.
The Associated Press does not identify people who say they have been victims of sexual assault unless they grant permission. Grein has gone public with his full name.
In addition to the canonical case against McCarrick, Noaker filed a police report against McCarrick in July.


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Are you a landlord with frustrating tenants? You’re not alone. Many landlords find out the hard way that they have frustrating tenants in one of their rental properties. In this article, we’re sharing 4 ways to deal with a frustrating tenant in Baton Rouge and in the zip code.
If you own a rental property, sooner or later you’re going to deal with a frustrating tenant in one of your properties. Maybe they trashed the property, maybe they never pay rent on time, maybe there are too many people living there, maybe they just call you for every little thing. No matter what the situation, tenants like that will eventually rent your property. Here are 4 ways to deal with a frustrating tenant in Baton Rouge when it happens it to you.
If you want to sell your rental property to us and finally get rid of the hassles and headaches, then get in touch and let us know about the property so we can make you an offer. Click here now to fill out the form or call our team at (225) 330-8416.

industry_corpus2: Real Estate & Construction


text:
I was diagnosed with Oesophageal cancer in June 2009. I had carried the symptoms for 15 months before visiting my GP. I was unable to swallow, lost weight; I thought it was because of my dieting. I went to the GP in March 2009 thinking I had a hiatus hernia, the GP may have been influenced by my remarks, as I was referred for an endoscopy, but not on a ‘2-week wait’ which would have been the case if cancer was suspected.
Nervously I asked, “what are we talking about?” The doctor looked straight at me, eyes focused and said: ”That which people don’t want to talk about”. I knew instantly what he meant. Naturally, my first question was, “How long have I got doc?” which was a bit premature as further tests would need to be carried out. I was worried, I didn’t know how to break it to my wife. You see in the years prior to me getting cancer we had several family members die from breast cancer, I didn’t want to put my wife through it all again.
On 22nd June it was confirmed that I had Oesophageal cancer. For anyone who does not know what that is it’s a type of cancer affecting the gullet – the long tube that carries food from the throat to the stomach.
As with most people my survival instinct came forth. I repeatedly told myself, ”I’ve beaten the cancer”. You see half the battle for me was mental. I thought I would go green to beat it. I changed my diet, cutting out red meat, dairy, tea and coffee. I started to google ‘cancer’, which was a big mistake and a waste of time. I did find out there was an 8% survival rate. Everything else I found was either nonsense or contradicting.
Back and forth from the hospitals, I went to have tests and by the end of July, they had located a 35-45cm tumour. I remember the moment I was told it felt empty and confusing but not quite empty as the feeling of something growing inside of me felt a bit peculiar.
In August, I started my chemo. Three cycles of chemotherapy of three weeks each. I was on what I called the ‘poison tablet’s’ and while you expect all the symptoms of chemo - losing weight, hair falling out, including eyelashes, no one warned me that your eyelashes block out the sun or that I could get 60 minutes of hiccups several times a day.
But, throughout the whole process, I continued to tell myself “I’ve beaten cancer”.
Six weeks after Chemotherapy I was ready for my Left Thoracoabdominal Oesophagogastrectomy operation. I was slightly nervous, it didn’t help that the surgeon looked so young. For assurance, I asked him if he’d done this before and if he was any good at it. To my relief, he said he had.
So, on the 11th day of the 11th month at 11.00am, my cancer armistice started. The Porters rolled up and I underwent a six-hour operation, which left me with a 63cm scar that started at the front of my stomach went around the side and ended at the spine.
I had a CT scan and on the 28th May 2010, and 9 months after I was diagnosed with Oesophageal cancer, I was finally given the all clear. Obviously, it was great hearing those little words, but I was so convinced I would beat it that it was a real relief that I actually did.
My advice to anyone going through a similar thing is to try and stay positive and to get advice and support as early as possible. Macmillan Cancer Support and your GP are great sources of support.
Dave Simpson has now made a full recovery and has been working for Central Bedfordshire Healthwatch since April 2013. His experience as a cancer patient has led to his involvement in several local cancer patient groups and volunteering for the local community. Dave is a speaker and champion for Macmillan Cancer Support.

industry_corpus2: Health & Medicine


text:
Everyone is trying to be successful. Their work, their hobbies, their family…whatever avenue it may be. The sad thing is many people judge their success by whether or not they have money, drive a BMW or what side of town they live on. Allow me to share another version of a successful life well lived.
A man is born into a farm family, well raised with church on Sunday and straight up family values served in large helpings at every meal. Working the soil and raising livestock. Dedicating every minute of his life to making sure his family is fed and have what they need. His brother leaves to join the service and he is left to help his parents and sisters. He tills the ground and follows in his father’s footsteps.
His mother and sisters work alongside him and working together they keep the family and farm going. He takes a wife in the bleakest of financial times and then, he too is called off to war. He does his time and serves his country, doing what others fear to do. He lands on the shores of Normandy and fights for the country he loves in the hopes that everyone will be better off because of his effort.
When he returns home, he starts a family, carrying on those family traditions he grew up with. He teaches them how to till the soil and work the livestock. Baling hay is a monthly ritual. The sun rises and sets, and each day he takes another step towards being a “success”.
His children grow up and have families of their own. This man continues to work the land and with each season that passes he sees the fruits of his labor.
As children, grand children, great-grandchildren, even a great-great grandchild come, his life begins to pass by faster and faster. Nieces and nephews look to him for advice and reassurance. He passes on years of wisdom to all who will listen and prays for those who won’t. He never turns his back, but gently encourages them to do what’s right, even though sometimes he doubts they will ever get it.
At the close of his life, people gather around to say their goodbyes and share their memories. If he could only hear what they say and feel the love everyone has for this precious man. It’s not about money or wealth. It’s about round bales of hay rolling down a hillside and little children too small to climb the steps of his school bus. The ones he had to get out and help to get in on their first day of school. The 4-H sheep contests that his grandsons took so much pride in, all of these memories are the things that show his success.
For a life well lived, this man has blessed so many and everyone will miss him dearly.
Rest In Peace Uncle Robert Ihnen, you are forever with us in every memory we share.

industry_corpus2: Agriculture & Fisheries


text: This Endon Colman pendant has a gloss cream finish, and a shimmering gold leaf inner for a touch of opulence. Suitable for use with energy saving bulbs, dimmable and the drop is adjustable at time of fitting. Other colour options available.

industry_corpus2: Others


text: I just wanted to message you to let you know what a brilliant driver you have on your team. I followed him from Henley this morning to Wargrave where he turned off. He was a very cautious driver who signalled even to go past parked vehicles. I know it’s nothing exciting but it’s so nice to have such a good driver in front when they are in a lorry. If you could let him know that would be brilliant.

industry_corpus2: Transportation


text:
They sit, so cheerful, on your nightstand.
You heard them the other night, when they were still closed buds in your vase, slowly crackling and giggling as they began to poke out their heads from the paper-thin coat that held them in place. One crackle. Two. Then, as if the cautious opening of the flowers was no longer enough, they burst open, all sunshine and brightness, leaving their brown husk behind.
They are the first thing to greet you in the morning--that dose of sunlight before even the sun itself is up. Big bold petals cradle their loud trumpet shaped center as if it were a fragile porcelain tea up and they, the saucer. In the center of each flower sits the furry, pollen-coated stamen perfuming your room with the sweet scent of spring.
They chase winter away, promising warmer days and flower-strewn gardens. Soon, they say, soon. Soon you will be able to pack up your winter coat and shed your winter layers. Soon you will be able to walk barefoot on the grass and picnic on fresh radishes and sprouts and berries. Soon. But until then, you have me--that bright cluster of flowers on your nightstand.


text:
Chief Financial Officer of VP Securities with responsibility for financial and economic affairs.
Experience from auditing, the retail sector, shipping and Corporate Banking.
2007 - 2015 General Manager of Finance in Dampskibsselskabet NORDEN A/S.
Executive MBA from Copenhagen Business School, 2014. And Graduate Diploma in Business Administration (financial and management accounting, HD-R) also from Copenhagen Business School, 2004.

industry_corpus2: Finance & Economics


text:
Candy is a great colt. He is maturing to have the same excellent conformation as his full brother, Heza Regal Dandy. When Dandy was born I thought he was the best of the best and never dreamed that Princess would give us another super colt, but she did. Candy has the same gorgeous head, huge hip and good mind. He's Homozygous so you will ALWAYS get a colored baby.
His full brother was shown one time shortly after he was purchased. He took 4th place in halter. The couple that bought him are planning on sending him to a trainer for Reining training with plans on taking him to the World Show. At the present time he is being broke to ride. I received a message from the new owners stating the following: "Dandy is doing awesome! He is the sweetest guy. I am just getting him started under saddle and he is doing great. The first time I climbed into the saddle he took off like he knew what he was doing."
We have had 3 foals out of Princess so far and she never disappoints us. Her colts have all been such a pleasure to work with as they are so willing to please and eager to learn. Candy is no exception to the rule. He retains what he learns day by day.
He will certainly turn any judges head with his "LOOK AT ME" attitude and the proud way that he carries himself. He KNOWS that he is something special. He should excel in Halter, Pleasure, Trail, Color Class and more. His dam was shown extensively in Halter for 5 years and won every Halter class she was ever in.
If you are in the market for a stud, Candy has everything you need: Homozygous, conformation and a champion pedigree to boot ... Doc Bar, Primero El Randado, Big Bits Bar, Kokomingo, Hanks Koko, Dandy Diamond, Leo San Cita, Zippo Pat Bars, Sugar Bars, Lighting Bar, Doc's Zimfandel and more.
His Great Grandsire, Citas Slidin Leo, is the sire of Slidin Miss Kitty the FIRST Paint ever to win #1 Six Pac Top 5 Award 3 Years Running and the FIRST 3 Year Old to ever win #1 Six Pac Top 5 Award. In 3 years of showing she earned a PAC Certificate of Recognition in Western Pleasure, Halter, Trail, English Pleasure, Walk/Trot, Showmanship, Equitation and Color Class and a PAC Certificate of Achievement in Western Pleasure, English Pleasure, Halter, Walk/Trot, Trail, Color Class and Showmanship. Multiple times PAC Champion and High Point Awards. She has won so much that there is just too much to list here. She has earned 3,445 Lifetime Performance Points and 486 Lifetime Halter Points.
Candy was imprinted at birth and has been exposed to all types of things... Power tools, dogs, cows, rabbits, coyotes, fox, Prairie Dogs, Birds of ALL kinds, tractors, cars, trucks, irrigation equipment and much more. Nothing seems to phase him in the slightest. He is halter broke, picks up his feet with ease and has been wormed. We put extensive ground work into our foals and work them every day. He will be taught to cross poles, walk over plywood and plastic, back, move away from pressure, load in a trailer and much more.
Don't pass this guy up. He'd be a great addition to your show barn or your breeding program.
If you show Candy, once you earn 10 VERIFIABLE Points with the APHA we will issue a $100.00 refund. You just need to notify us that you have earned the points. Once the points show up on the APHA web site we will send you a check. Please note that it does take a while for the points to show up on the APHA web site.


text:
A new snippet surfaced this morning presumably from Chris Brown’s upcoming Fortune album.
“Touch Me (Like U Touchin’ Urself)” features former RichGirl member Se7en and I think it’s a nice change of pace from his new single, “Turn Up The Music”. I guess he had to leak something to remind his R&B fans that he hasn’t forgotten about them.

industry_corpus2: Film & Entertainment


text: Getting help from Rachel via coaching calls has made a huge difference to my horses. The biggest thing has been a change in Muru’s mood, from being really over aroused to now where he is so much calmer about everything. The change in him has been amazing. My other horse Dazzle I’ve had for 23 years and this has been by far the best year for our relationship and the communication between us. All three of us are much more relaxed and having much more fun.


text:
Holiday Club 2017 – can’t wait !
Coffee and muffins will be on Sale for parents.
On the day, check-in opens at 8am.

industry_corpus2: Hospitality & Catering


text:
Recently, Glare-LED 100 sets of LED variable speed limit screen layout Daguang, Fuchang, Heda, Hunwu, Jingha, Changping high-speed, for Jilin Province Expressway road network "screen" Tim Smart style, build a security barrier.
The correct opening mode of the front maintenance--led display With the unprecedented prosperity of outdoor advertising industry, the advantages of pre-maintenance LED display will become increasingly apparent. Glare-LED Front Service LED display, LED outdoor advertising market reliable choice.
September 19, the 14th Shanghai International LED exhibition (led China 2018) at the Shanghai Pudong New International Expo Center, the grand opening curtain, Shenzhen Glare-LED Optoelectronics Co., Ltd. participated in the three-day wisdom display ceremony, showing a representative and forward-looking LED Smart Display products.
The China International Road Traffic Safety Product Exposition (2018CTSE) falls on August 17 Curtain, Glare-LED, Dahua, Seewor and so on nearly 450 industry brands exhibited own product, about 50000 merchants observe this industry grand event.
2018 China ITS InterTraffic Expo LEADER OF ENERGY SAVING LED DISPLAY China*Beijing China International Exhibition Center(New Hall) Glare-led sincerely invite you to visit our company, and we will be proud of you!
Glare-led front service led display is not only easy to maintain,Compared with the traditional led display. The maximum weight of single cabinet is only 26 kilograms. There is no special service channel behind the screen, which is especially suitable for the space limited installation environment or the display screen mounted on the wall. The demand for space can be greatly reduced because of no service of the channel.
In order to reflect the spirit of enterprise, strengthen unity and cooperation, promote communication, and build an excellent staff team. Shenzhen Glare-LED Optoelectronic Co., Ltd.(hereinafter referred to as Glare-LED) organized all the staffs to carry out the April 2018 team cohesion activities on the afternoon of April 27.
On the afternoon of April 26th, the new product conference of LCD control traffic ETC information guidance led screen of Shenzhen Glare-LED Co., Ltd in 2018 was held successfully ,Glare-led sales, research and development department, planning department witnessed this exciting moment together.
On the afternoon of April 13th ,the new product conference of Illegal whistle monitoring screen of Shenzhen Glare-LED Optoelectronic company in 2018 was held successfully!
31, March , a birthday party for employees in the first quarter of the years were be held in Glare-led company’s meeting room. More than 20 birthdays were invited to this special birthday party and enjoy the happy time together.
The bright openning of 2018 Guangzhou international advertising logo and LED Exhibition (ISLE) is on March 3rd in Guangzhou Canton Fair Exhibition Hall Area B, and the gorgeous appearance of the exhibition hall of Shenzhen GLARE-LED Optoelectronic Co.,Ltd (The following is called "GLARE-LED")was in 11.2 D50 .
LED display act as a important role in security monitoring areas, marketing development impact the direction of the security industry directly. LED outdoor display gain an unparalleled advantage in the development of intelligent transportation, is an important direction of LED area development.
In the high-definition small-pitch LED display to become the mainstream of the market today, we often hear these terms: 1080P, 4K, 8K, etc.,But what does 4K mean? If 4K is four times greater than 1080p, does that mean 4K is 4320p? The above questions we come to answer you one by one.
Shanghai International LED Exhibition is ongoing, Glare-led has already achieved great success at the beginning two days, attracted numerous exhibitors to negotiate. Today is the third day, browsing through numerous members in the same trade, we have to say there gathering plenty of talents in the LED display field, we’re amazed by intelligence human beings creative display technology and every kinds of Black Tech.
Seven years have witnessed the growth and the beginning of the company, the fleeing of the time, while we review the footprints of the journey, we are filled with gratitude. In order to express the great thanks to all the staff for their great effort and to build a harmonious team atmosphere, hereby on the day of the company’s seventh anniversary, the company organized a tour to Huizhou’s Xun Liao Wan which is renowned as the “Blessed white sand causeway”, being placed under the hug of nature, people had a great day.
On June 25th, 2016, the special and joyful moment, the Glare-LED held various celebration activities for the seventh-anniversary and housewarming of Glare-LED, hundreds of guests and staffs of Glare-LED gathered together and had a great time.
September 19th to 22th ,2016,The much-anticipated 2016 the 12th Shanghai international LED show(also known as LED CHINA 2016)will be held at Shanghai new international exhibition center.

industry_corpus2: Computing & Telecommunications


text:
The amount of training you’ll need to put in before the event will depend on your current level of fitness and your cycling ability.
If you’ve got good fitness – you cycle regularly throughout the year, either to work every day or long rides at the weekends – you’ll probably already have a good training schedule and you should be fit enough to tackle the ride without too much extra training.
If you’ve been cycling intermittently over the years, perhaps by cycling to work in the summer or regular Sunday rides with the family, you’ll likely have some basic fitness and confidence for cycling, so a few months should be enough time to prepare.
If you haven’t ridden a bike for years – or ever! – then the sooner you get training the better. Build up your mileage gradually so you don’t over-exercise or get injured – this will also help you get a good base fitness so you can build your stamina up from there.
When you’re training, it’s important to structure your sessions and training schedule properly so you get the most out of them and you don’t get injured.
Warm up for at least ten minutes at the start of each session, and don’t forget to stretch after your session as well. The rounded shoulder position that you use on your bike can lead to overstretched upper back muscles and a tight chest, so by spending a few minutes stretching after each ride you’ll help prevent this from happening!
Make sure you plan recovery time into your schedule – whilst you need to cycle at least twice a week to retain your cycle strength, you should give yourself time in-between to recover. Between two and four outings a week is enough. One of these outings every week or fortnight should be a long ride, for more than hour, to build up your endurance.
Also, the weather might not always allow you to get out on the bike (although some would argue there’s no such thing as bad weather, just the wrong clothing!) – but that needn’t be a bad thing. As long as you’re getting some outdoor cycling in, it can be good to mix it up with spin classes, swimming, yoga, core strength exercises – find what works for you and stick with it.
If you've already got a bike, you're already halfway there! But if your bike’s been gathering dust and you’re just taking it back out now for your training, it’s a good idea to take it along to a good quality bike shop, where they’ll be able to give it a thorough service.
Once you’ve got your bike in good working order, don’t forget all the kit: you’ll need a good quality helmet and cycling clothes. Remember, you can earn our lovely cycling kit by hitting your fundraising targets.
And make sure you stay safe by getting reflective clothing and lights if you’re training after dark.
Cycling burns more than 300 calories per hour, so as you’re training you’ll probably find that your appetite increase as you burn that energy off! To make sure you’re looking after your body, you need to be eating well so that you give your muscles fuel, repair any muscle or tissue damage, and replace lost electrolytes and nutrients.
Carbohydrates: a high carb diet is recommended for anyone involved in an endurance sport such as cycling, as carbs give you the bulk of your energy.
Fats: fats help breakdown food to give you enough energy and help store the sugar and energy you’ll need. Around 20-30% of your diet should be fats.
Proteins: proteins are the building blocks of tissue repair, so it’s important for cyclists to consume 15-20% of protein in their diet to help rebuild muscle and tissue fibres.
Vitamins and minerals: these, alongside other micro-nutrients, have an important part to play – by eating a variety of fresh fruit and veg, you’ll be keeping your immune system healthy and helping with tissue repair.
Water: this is just as important as food. Even when you feel you don't need it, drink plenty. It’s just as important to keep your fluid up after exercise to help you recover.
To be on peak form for the day of the ride, you’ll need to taper, cutting down on the intensity of your training in the run-up to the event. Three to four days of tapering will be fine for shorter routes. If you’re doing a 100 miler, you may want to taper for up to a week.
Good luck and happy cycling!
In Izzy's words, an updated version of our family's involvement with Bloodwise over the years.
Wiggle Birmingham Bikeathon – 2017 routes announced!
With the choice of three distances – 26, 52, and 100 miles – there's a route for everyone, whether you fancy a leisurely summer cycle with the family or something a little more challenging.

industry_corpus2: Sports


text:
Geocarpic seed pods (usually scarce).
Examples of leaf shape variation in the species (tetrafoliolate leaves).
Erect stems arising from rhizomes.
Stabilizing headland and road verges.
cv. Arb used as a groundcover in a banana plantation in South Africa (bare ground around banana plants to avoid competition).
Arachis glabrata Benth. var. hagenbeckii (Harms) F. J. Herm.
While not strictly synonyms, other epithets such as prostrata and marginata have been misapplied to this species.
Family: Fabaceae (alt. Leguminosae or Papilionaceae) tribe: Aeschynomeneae subtribe: Stylosanthinae, section Rhizomatosae, series Rhizomatosae (formerly Eurhizomatosae).
rhizoma peanut, rhizoma perennial peanut, perennial forage peanut, amendoim-bravo, mendoim-do-campo-baixo.
Herbaceous perennial with a dense mat of rhizomes (mostly in the surface 5-7 cm of soil), 3-5 (up to10 mm) in diameter, radiating from a deep, woody taproot. Mature rhizomes often covered with orange-brown, flaky phellem or bark. Stems erect to decumbent, unbranched, hollow or pithy, 2-3 mm diameter, 5-35 cm long, arising from the crown and rhizomes. Leaves tetrafoliolate, glabrous to sparsely pubescent; leaflets ranging from linear-lanceolate to oblanceolate, obovate or cuneate up to 4 cm long and 2 cm wide; stipules linear-lanceolate, falcate, up to 3 cm long. Flowers sessile, axillary; hypanthium filiform, tubular, up to 10 cm long, pilose, containing the ovary at its base; standard more or less orbicular, 15-25 mm wide, yellow, soft orange to brilliant orange without red veins on back. Fruit set geocarpic, but usually scarce; fruit ovoid ca. 10 mm long and 5-6 mm diameter; seed with pale testa .
South America : Brazil (Goiás, Mato Grosso, Mato Grosso Do Sul, Minas Gerais, Sao Paulo), Argentina (Corrientes, Misiones), Paraguay (Alto Parana, Amambay, Caaguazu, Canendiyu, Central, Concepcion, Cordillera, Guaira, Itapua, Misiones, Paraguari, San Pedro).
Used in intensively grazed pastures, for hay and silage production, and agroforestry (e.g. under coconuts). Also used for soil conservation (e.g. road verges) and as an ornamental. May also have value in companion cropping systems, either with cool or warm season grains.
Grows successfully on well-drained soils ranging from sands to clays. Prefers acid soils growing well down to pH 4.5, but tolerates neutral to slightly alkaline soils, some ecotypes growing moderately well at pH as high as 8.5. Grows well on infertile or fertile soils, but may suffer from excessive grass competition on the latter. Appears to be less P-demanding than A. pintoi .
Rainfall over its natural distribution ranges from about 1,200-1,600 mm/year. In cultivation, it is best suited to areas receiving 1,000-2,000 mm per year. It is extremely drought tolerant and can persist in areas receiving well-distributed rain down to 600 mm, or 750 mm rain in a 5-month wet season. During very dry conditions, aerial growth may die off, but rhizomes survive and plants regrow vigorously with the onset of warm and humid weather. It can also tolerate short periods of flooding or waterlogging, surviving in areas with about 4,000 mm rainfall /yr.
Natural distribution extends from 13ºS-28ºS, mostly at fairly low altitudes. In cultivation, it has grown successfully from near the equator to about 30ºN and S, representing a range in average annual temperature from about 20-26º C. While it grows best when mean monthly temperatures are above about 20°C, it has survived at 32ºN in the USA with average annual temperature of 18ºC, and where "freeze" temperatures may fall to -12ºC. Heavy frosts kill top growth, but plants recover from rhizomes.
Shade tolerance varies with ecotype, e.g. CPI 12121 rated highly shade tolerant and CPI 29986 as having low shade tolerance. Generally can grow in moderate shade, but less shade-tolerant than A. pintoi .
Appears to flower in response to shortening days, particularly when released from a stress, e.g . wetting of soil following a dry period. Despite often-dense flowering, few seeds are formed. Seed set is more common during the establishment phase before sward closure or in rhizome production fields the year after digging.
A. glabrata is very tolerant of heavy grazing, requiring moderate to heavy grazing pressures for best performance. For hay production, 3 cuts/year on an 8-week cycle or 2 cuts /year on a 12-week cycle give best results. For grazing, best regrowth is obtained with 2,300 kg/ha DM residual (20 cm stubble height) on a 3-week cycle, or 1,500 kg/ha DM residual (15 cm stubble height) on a 6-week cycle.
As with death of tops from frost and drought , plants readily recover from rhizomes following fire.
Due to low levels of seed set, A. glabrata is usually propagated from rhizomes. A clean seedbed is preferable since establishment is delayed by competition from associated plants. It is important to use rhizomes that are dormant or have a high level of total non-structural carbohydrate (TNC) to ensure rapid, vigorous establishment. Pieces of rhizome mat 30 cm square can be planted on a 1.5-2 m grid, or rhizomes can be teased out prior to planting into 15-25 cm lengths (sprigs), and planted in one of two ways (Note: Rhizome harvesting machinery that digs and separates rhizomes has been developed in Florida, USA). Sprigs can be broadcast over the surface and disked in to the soil, or alternatively, planted in rows, 50 cm to 1 m apart, manually or using sprig-planting machinery, also developed in Florida. In all cases, a planting rate of at least 4.5 m³ of tightly packed or 9 m³ of loosely packed rhizomes/ha (100 bushels/ac) is necessary, planting to a depth of 3 cm in clay soils to 6 cm in coarse sands. Regardless of planting method, fields should be rolled immediately after planting to compact the soil around the rhizomes. There is usually no need to inoculate, since effective strains of Bradyrhizobium are transferred with the planting material. Shoots develop 2-3 weeks after planting, and full stand cover is possible by the end of the first growing season if rainfall is adequate or irrigation is applied. In many cases, it may take 2-3 years to achieve a dense cover. Even if seed were available, rhizome planting would probably give faster cover since seedlings are usually quite large before rhizomes form. Weeds should be controlled during establishment by manual weeding or through use of pre-and post-emergence herbicides such as trifluralin or vernolate, post-emergence applications of alachlor and dinoseb, and routine applications of bentazon or 2,4-DB for broadleaf weed control, and sethoxydim and fluazifop-butyl for grass control, as required. Mowing and early grazing reduces shading from taller weeds and promotes spread of A. glabrata .
Grows well in soils low in phosphorus (Mehlich P level to as low as 4.4 ppm ), but some P fertiliser is advisable for soils extremely low in P. Liming is rarely necessary.
Combines well with other low-growing species, including aggressive creeping grasses that usually suppress companion legumes. Can be shaded out by taller grasses.
Grasses: Axonopus fissifolius (affinis), Cynodon dactylon , Digitaria eriantha , Paspalum nicorae , P. notatum , Brachiaria decumbens.
Legumes: Aeschynomene villosa , Medicago sativa , Trifolium repens.
A. glabrata is rarely troubled by insects or disease and is immune to common groundnut leaf-spots caused by Cercospora arachidicola (Mycosphaerella arachidis) and Cercosporidium personatum = Phaeoisariopsis personata (Mycosphaerella berkeleyi). Generally immune to groundnut rust caused by Puccinia arachidis, although strains of the organism exist that can cause severe damage. Susceptible to, but suffering no long-term damage from, leaf-spot diseases caused by Phyllosticta, Leptosphaerulina and Stemphylium. White mould caused by Sclerotium rolfsii, and rhizome rots caused by Rhizoctonia, Pythium and Fusarium cause temporary damage when conditions favour spread of the organism, but stands recover. Cotton root rot caused by Phymatotrichopsis omnivora (= Phymatotrichum omnivorum) has also caused damage. Peanut stunt virus (Clemson isolate, Cucumovirus), symptoms of which include stunted plants, chlorosis, malformed leaves, and reduced foliage yield, has recently been isolated from A. glabrata . Tolerant of or resistant to the various root-knot nematodes (Meloidogyne spp).
Insect damage is of little consequence.
Plants can only spread by rhizome extension, although, in principle, spread by water-eroded seed or rhizome is possible. Rhizomes can spread up to 2 m per year in the absence of competition, or 5-30 cm per year with grass competition.
Nutritive value varies with ecotype or cultivar, and declines with age of material. Values range from 10-18% CP and 45-68% IVOMD for material cut twice a year and up to 22% CP and 77% IVOMD for material cut more regularly. P levels of 0.15% have been recorded in A. glabrata growing in extremely infertile soils, and up to 0.52% in well-fertilised soils. The overall nutritive value is similar to that of Medicago sativa .
Readily eaten by dairy and beef cattle, horses, dairy and meat goats, sheep, swine, rabbits, poultry and ostrich, as hay, silage and pasture. The hay is at least as palatable as Medicago sativa hay . The leaf meal compares favourably with yellow maize and alfalfa meal as xanthophyll pigment source for egg yolk colouring in laying hens.
Dry matter yields of about 10 t/ha are common, and up to 16 t/ha under ideal conditions. Yields of 5 t/ha have been obtained in rubber and coconut plantations. Three cuttings of hay are possible in good seasons cutting at 7 or 8 week intervals, although limited rainfall may reduce this to two a year.
Beef cattle can gain up to 0.9 kg/day grazing A. glabrata , and meat goats >60 g/day. Benefits have also been demonstrated with milk production, and in pigs, poultry and horses.
2n = 40; selfed or outcrossing. Ecotypes cross within the species, but also capable of producing shortly rhizomatous, sterile triploids, crossing with the diploid Arachis paraguariensis (section Erectoides) and Arachis kretschmeri (section Procumbentes). Seedling off-types from intra- and inter-sectional hybrids are common in nurseries where a range of germplasm is being maintained.
Seed yields are very low, probably of the order of 50-100 kg/ha in higher yielding types.
High yields of rhizomes with high levels of total non-structural carbohydrate (TNC) are required for propagation. One hectare of A. glabrata nursery should yield enough rhizomes to plant 20-30 ha at a planting rate of 9 m³/ha (100 bu/ac). A greater area of nursery would be required to plant mats or sods. Rhizomes should have a minimum diameter of about 3 mm. Best rhizomes are produced with good soil moisture and fertility, and a lengthy period without defoliation. Intensive hay-making, mowing or grazing of fields to be harvested for rhizomes results in lower rhizome production, decreased diameter of rhizomes, and reduced TNC. Rhizomes should not be kept in stacks, which will lead to heating, and should be planted within 5 days of digging.
Tolerant of pre-emergence herbicides, trifluralin and vernolate, and post-emergence herbicides, alachlor, dinoseb, bentazon, 2,4-D, 2,4-DB, sethoxydim and fluazifopbutyl. Susceptible to metsulfuron methyl and glufosinate.
Produces high yield of high quality forage .
Adapted to infertile, acid soils.
Very persistent even under heavy grazing.
Combines well with competitive grasses.
Adapted over wide latitudinal range.
Cook, B.G. (1992) Arachis glabrata Benth. In: 't Mannetje, L. and Jones, R.M. (eds) Plant Resources of South-East Asia No. 4. Forages . pp. 46-48. (Pudoc Scientific Publishers, Wageningen, the Netherlands).
Freire, M.J., Kelly-Begazo, C.A. and Quesenberry, K.H. (2000) Establishment, yield, and competitiveness of rhizoma perennial peanut germplasm on a flatwoods soil. Soil and Crop Science Society of Florida Proceedings, 59, 68-72.
Mislevy, P., Quesenberry, K.H., Williams, M.J., and Blount, A.R. (2003) Influence of harvest management on yield and persistence of rhizoma peanut on wet tropical soils. Agronomy Abstracts. CD-ROM, C03-mislevy243766-P).
(PI 118457, CPI 58110) USA (Florida) (c. 1960) From Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil (20.45ºS, 585 m asl, rainfall 1,500 mm). Selected for productivity.
(PI 262839, PI 262873, CPI 58111) USA (Florida) (mid 1960s) From Amambay Department, Paraguay (22.13ºS, 300 m asl, rainfall 1,600 mm). Low-growing type (to 15-20 cm), selected for spreading ability.
(PI 262817) USA (Florida) (1986) From Itapúa Department, Paraguay (27.12ºS, 200 m asl, rainfall 1,700 mm). Selected for drought tolerance and adaptation to deep, droughty sands. More drought -tolerant than, but of similar productivity to 'Florigraze'.
(GKP 9553, PI 262801) USA (Florida) (2002) From Corrientes, Argentina (27.63ºS, 75 m asl, rainfall 1,300 mm). Low-growing, with shiny, waxy leaves; selected for drought tolerance, disease resistance, and rate of spread on upland sites; used as low-maintenance ground cover in fruit production, along roadways and in xeriscape plantings in urban areas; adapted to peninsular Florida.
(9056068) USA (Florida) (2002) From Brazil. Small, dark green leaves and abundant yellow-orange blooms; selected for drought and disease tolerance, low growth habit, low maintenance, and attractiveness of foliage and blooms; used as ground cover in fruit production or as turf along roadways and in xeriscape plantings; adapted to peninsular Florida.
(PI 262840) USA (Florida) (1992) From Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil (22.12ºS, 200 m asl, rainfall 1,400 mm). Low growing (8-10 cm), more floriferous type than forage varieties. Used as turf or ground cover on lawns, highway median strips and shoulders, parks, playgrounds, off play areas of golf courses, and any low traffic area.
(GS-1) USA (Florida) (1978) Spontaneous emergence between experimental plots of PI 118457 ('Arb') and PI 151982 (CPI 22762), and possibly a natural hybrid between the two. A taller type (to c. 30 cm), selected for yielding and spreading ability. The most widely planted cultivar in Florida, growing under colder conditions and on wetter soils than does 'Arbrook'.
(CPI 93483, PI 231318) Australia (Queensland) (1995) Origin unknown. Intermediate type growing to 25 cm, with dark blue-green, ovate leaves. Highest yielding and highest CP level of lines tested; also capable of rapid spread, but not as good as CPI 93475 in this respect. Combines well with vigorous grasses.
(PI 118457, CPI 58110) South Africa (1987) Same as 'Arb'. Used as ground cover in tropical fruit orchards and banana plantations.
'Waxy leaf' USA (Florida) Substantially taller than other ornamental strains and very dense cover. (= 'Brooksville 67').
CPI 12121 (PI 163452) Australia, Indonesia Origin unknown (from Rio de Janeiro Botanical Gardens). Generally low growing (to 20 cm), with light to mid-green, elliptic leaflets. More shade tolerant variety, known in Indonesia as Maiwa variety. Potential for growing under coconuts.
CPI 22762 (PI 151982) Australia (Queensland) Origin unknown. Low growing type (5-15 cm) with small, dark green, linear-lanceolate leaflets. Adaptable, dense, persistent.
CPI 29986 Australia (Northern Territory) Origin unknown. Taller growing type (to 30 cm) with large, mid-green, lanceolate leaflets. Produces well in the tropics, but slow to establish.
CPI 93469 (coll. no. GKP 9618) Australia (Queensland) From Cordillera, Paraguay (25.2ºS, 80 m asl, rainfall 1,400 mm). Vigorous, intermediate type (to 25 cm), dark green, oblong lanceolate to narrow elliptic leaflets. Distinguished from other Australian cultivars and accessions in having soft orange (as opposed to brilliant orange) flowers.
CPI 93475 (PI 262814) Australia (Queensland) From Itapúa Department, Paraguay (27.28ºS, 80 m asl, rainfall 1,700 mm). Low growing type (10-15 cm), with dark green selected for rapid spread.
(PI 262826) USA (Florida) Small rhizome type, with best competitiveness against grass invasion in an 8-year experiment, and annual DM yield equal or superior to 'Florigraze' and 'Arbrook'.
(PI 262839) USA (Florida) Same PI as 'Arblick', but may be different. Small rhizome type, with higher survival and lateral spread than 'Ecoturf'. Best overall performance of types tested, 'Arbrook', 'Florigraze', 'Ecoturf' and EL18.
EL18 USA (Florida) Seedling from near 'Arbrook' plots. Large rhizome type like 'Arbrook', with higher survival and lateral spread than 'Ecoturf'.


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Beyond doubt, the means is subordinate to the end, given the many and varied elements and styles of melody many extant explanations confine us to specific stylistic models, and they are too exclusive. Olivier Messiaen: A Research and Information Guide is Professor Benitez's second book on the composer, the first one being the guide's initial edition Routledge, 2008. . Barraud, Olivier Messiaen musicien mystique? Je l'ai déjà écoutée plusieurs fois, avec joie. Jennifer gave the second London performance of Messiaens Livre du Saint Sacrement at the Royal Festival Hall in 1988. The idea of serialism is also applied in ways in the visual arts, design, and architecture.
The Society held concerts in the hall almost continuously until 1945, the French composer Hector Berlioz premiered his Symphonie fantastique in the conservatorys hall on 5 December 1830 with an orchestra of more than a hundred players. In 1949 he taught at. Works performed included Réveil des oiseaux, commissioned for the 1960 festival and Couleurs de la cité céleste. The characteristic effect of Messiaens music is to induce in the listener a trance-like state of heightened response to every instant, a state where he experiences simultaneously several different rates of time-flow. Professor Benitez is currently finishing a third book on Messiaen, which is an analytical monograph on the composer's opera, Saint François d'Assise, to be published by Indiana University Press in 2018.
Most marked among these is the extent of studies undertaken by amateurs working within the parameters of strict scientific methodology, most modern biological theories apply across taxonomic groups and the number of professional scientists who identify themselves as ornithologists has therefore declined. He met a violinist, a cellist and a clarinettist among his fellow prisoners. Jamais, en effet, je n'avais imaginé qu'il me serait accordé de vous dire, en cette cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris, ma fervente admiration et ma reconnaissante amitié. Ruth Cole Matthews maiden name, Ruth Ellen Cole was the first of her family to go to college, graduating from the University of Connecticut with a Bachelor of Arts in 1946. The latter piece was the result of a commission for a composition for three and three ; Messiaen added to this more brass, wind, percussion and piano, and specified a xylophone, and rather than three xylophones.
Olivier Messiaen Benitez Vincent P.
Messiaen sits at the far right; Dukas stands at the centre At the Conservatoire, Messiaen made excellent academic progress. The Egyptians also made use of birds in their scripts, many of which. Il n'a rien fait qui soit utilisable dans ce registre. The chord built on the degree of the major scale is called the dominant chord. If you could give me a description of it that would be of great service to me. Jennifer gave 25 performances of Livre du Saint Sacrement round the world before the score was published.
I like the glissando trembling in a cascade, like cascading water, of the Kea. Birdsong in the Music of Olivier Messiaen. Some people dislike the static quality of a music that hearkens to the End of Time. So often one hears the fourth and final piece of L'ascension tripped off at twice its proper speed as if it were some pleasant little pastorale. C major consists of C, D, E, F, G, A, B, when transposing a mode of limited transposition this is not the case.
Et, vous le savez mieux que quiconque, la quête obstinée et patiente de l'artiste véritable, son humble obéissance à la recherche de l'insaisissable et de l'indivisible, l'usure indéfinie des forces et l'incertitude du résultat trouvent comme analogie la montée du mystique qui veut obéir à l'obscure lumière que lui donne le Seigneur et Rédempteur de tous. One is reminded of certain Polynesian action-songs where the women sing in languorous harmony while the men shout and dance with urgent primitive gestures. A gamelan is an ensemble consisting of metallophones, xylophones, flutes, gongs, voices. La Nativité du Seigneur is distributed worldwide and is currently being promoted for 2002 to commemorate the 10th anniversary of Messiaens death. These Native Americans hunted and gathered for most of their food, the Paiute in the area developed a mythology surrounding the hoodoos in Bryce Canyon 6.
Nous ne sommes pas là devant le déploiement abusif du sentiment religieux; nous sommes là devant une œuvre qui, s'appuyant sur la sensibilité et l'esthétique, veut nous mener jusqu'aux rigueurs pures et saintes de la contemplation du mystère ineffable ». Messiaen visited the United States in 1949, where his music was conducted by Koussevitsky and. This programme has been shown all over the world. Laissons de côté cette identification objective entre la manifestation du Beau et l'expression du Bien. The Conservatory Instrument Museum, founded in 1861, was formed from the instrument collection of Louis Clapisson, the French music historian Gustave Chouquet became the curator of the museum in 1871 and did much to expand and upgrade the collection 11. Simeone: Chez Messiaen, tout est prière: Messiaens appointment to the Trinité in 1931, Musical Times Winter 2004 pp. She played to him and Mme Messiaen at St Jamess Church, Muswell Hill.
It was first performed in 1983. That is why I wanted to advance research on these issues. J'ai déjà commencé une première notation de ce que vous m'avez envoyé. His formal application included a letter of recommendation from Widor. « Olivier Messiaen n'a pas été un « fabricant de liturgie ».

industry_corpus2: Subject Education


text:
Expert System and MongoDB have inked a deal whereby Expert System’s Cogito semantic technology will be integrated with MongoDB-powered big data environments. The companies say the integration will enable MongoDB users—from systems integrators to independent developers—to quickly and accurately access unstructured data, boost text analytics capabilities, metadata generation, document classification and entity extraction.
They add that continued growth and diversity of information streams have created the need for a new approach to information management that brings scalability, flexibility and efficiency to the analysis of information. MongoDB reports its solution supports incremental growth and high-performance business environments. Expert System says its Cogito semantic software goes beyond keywords or shallow linguistics to take full advantage of their unstructured data.


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What a great Christmas we had! We were able to see a lot of friends and family and host a full house for several days in the midst of packing everything up.
You can't really ask for a better "last christmas in the States (for a while)".
Thanks to everyone here and more, we are currently at 101% of funding! What a great Christmas present.
Our PNG plane tickets arrived in the mail.
We are expecting the shipping company to arrive January 10th, to haul our belongings to Papua New Guinea.
We are moving out January 13.
We have tickets in hand for Waxhaw, North Carolina for 8 weeks of training and then we're leaving for PNG in March.
101% sounds like an exciting number, and it is! But there are numbers and then there are numbers.
I am cautioned when sharing the "inner workings of mission finances" and I'm not sure really why. I've heard the advice, and honestly if I get in trouble I'll probably get more cautious in what I share.
But again, my intention here is to demystify missions. I've been raised in the church and I've held many of the same misconceptions about missions as many people have. This entire process is a huge eye opener to me.
See even though we're told "you can go once you get 100% of support" the truth is, you really should be higher than 100% of "promised commitment". There is the promise, and then there is the actual. People are people and they sometimes forget, or their circumstances change and the funding you planned on doesn't come in.
A true miracle would be if we received 100% of the commitment. 100% equals the budget it takes for us to live in PNG and it's a very stripped down budget. The common question is "what happens to the extra?" 100% means that we've reached 100% of the comitted support required by our budget. In a perfect world any extra would go towards unexpected costs, towards immediate needs, or into savings for future needs (such as vehicles and gas, which we have not budgeted for since we do not own a vehicle over there yet). However in a realist's world, sometimes accounts dip under 100% support on a month by month basis. Sometimes the funds didn't come in, and sometimes emergencies required straying from the budget. Missionaries tend to play a lot of catchup, which is why working for an organization who can afford to allow you to play catchup. They have been burned in the past by this though, which is why they require 100% before being allowed to go to the field these days.
If one dips too low, to often, they are encouraged to return and do more partnership development (fund raising).
So we gleefully tell you, we're at 101%, and we wouldn't shy away from being at 110% before we depart, the extra money will go to cover the eventual loss we expect over time. We do expect to see a few drop offs as churches change and people age.
Glory to God, this is all in His hands. And miraculously, it's been chiefly through individuals. That's unheard of really. Most missionaries depend on churches. In our scenario, each and every person is a major player in getting and keeping us in PNG.
So Thank YOU! and Merry Christmas to your house!
Christ the Lord be glorified forever and ever!
For those that have been praying.
My son had tubes put in his ears, and his adenoids removed yesterday around 1pm. The procedure went smoothly. His adenoids were very large.
He's almost back to his normal self, except he's been unable to hold down solids but he's working through it. What a trooper, was calm the whole time.
-we needed him in quick, the doctor got him in 3 days later because he was sympathetic to our cause.
-the anesthesiologist (sp?) had done several volunteer global short term trips himself and even was able to compare notes with my wife on certain places. He was GREAT with kids, a very pleasing bedside manner.
-that time of day the recovery room was empty so we got focussed attention.
-after we got home, my wife, who wasn't feeling great, finally took a moment to realize she had strep. We were able to get the oncall doctor to write a scrip for drugs for her without a visit and she's feeling a TON better today. That almost NEVER happens.
God had his hand on this family through this entire process, I'm sure there is more but I'm pretty tired from taking care of sickies all night.
Yesterday was the first time I ever had to see my kid attached to an I.V., with breathing mask and everything. I admire the strength of so many of my friends who have had to do that for prolongued periods of time during their child's infancy. Ear tubes and adenoid surgery is a cake walk compared to some of that stuff. And through it all, somehow my little son, with his bravery and calmness, facing his own nerves, made me respect him and proud and thankful to God all at the same time.
It is amazing what God will help us get through.
Prior to the surgery I was talking and walking with him. We spoke about bravery.
"Son, bravery is when you do something you need to, even though it scares you to do it. Can you think of an example?"
"yeah, like I'm scared to go to Papua New Guinea, but I'm gonna go."
From a child's mouth, at any moment, without warning can come silliness, or poignancy.
He said that our son has fluid in his ears, and recommended implanting tubes. At age 5 when chronic fluid is prsent, they usually take a look at the adnoids and possibly remove them. A procedure akin to removing tonsils.
-it could resolve his hearing issue and not have permanent loss.
-his current hearing loss, should it be permanent, isn't enough to affect his speech or learning or functioning. (not strong enough to require a hearing aid), and isn't progressive if we treat it now.
Because of our timeline the doctor was able to fit us in this Friday. Which is another huge answer to prayer. Being fit into our insurance plan AND his schedule 2 days after seeing him?
It's not because it was an emergency but because the doctor would like to check up on him before we left for N. Carolina!
also throw in a side prayer that our visas come through soon.
thank you! PRAISE GOD, that's a load off our minds.
There is more going on than I can even blog but the energy is very high around here. We're very very excited. I tend to use that word a LOT these days.
Funding wise, we haven't technically reached 100% yet, we still need some more monthly committments and partners. However we have reached 100% if you look at it another way.
(it's funny how finances can be viewed in multiple ways) So we're cleared to leave the country! We're hopeful that by the time we actually leave we'll be at 100% EVERY way you look at it, but 1 way is good enough for us for now.
1 - you'll never be higher support wise, than you are when you first leave.
why? - because people won't feel your presence anymore, won't see your energy, won't experience your enthusiasm, and will forget your face over time.
why? - because people will stop sending for various reasons, or forget to start.
So, by no means are we intending to stop, for multiple reasons.
We're very excited to actually start creating experiences to write you all about.
Pictures! New stories! The good stuff! The exciting stuff... what God is doing over there stuff!
Well we've begun packing too. Giving away furniture, selling stuff on craig's list, donating to the neighbors, hauling away junk, putting stuff in boxes, and trying to find people who'll store a box or two for us here and there.
It is quite the logistical puzzle to craft moving, when to get rid of what furniture, when to sell/donate cars, when to quit work, and when to pack up... say.. your computer equipment, etc.
All signs are pointing to GO... but there are a few more obstacles God has to clear.
January 13 - we fly to Waxhaw, North Carolina to live in an apartment for 8 weeks.
During those 8 weeks we will undergo cultural sensitivity training and technical training while our kids attend a local school.
March 10, we return from NC to stay in the Bay area for 1 week, visiting, saying goodbye, and tieing up loose ends.
March 17, we begin to fly to PNG.
- packing. Logistics of getting it all done.
- holidays. We're hosting Christmas, and it'll be a very full house, with family from both sides attending. IT promises to be a mixture of the stress of moving, the emotional stress of leaving, the logistic stress of having visitors stay in our home, and the christmas commotion of all the goings on. It's a perfect storm, and everyone is going to feel the pressure. But, the reason for it all is love. Folks want to be around us during this time, even if part of them are upset at us for taking away the grandkids, they love us. Pray that all of us can be kind and sincere during this time.
-our son's hearing. This is a very personal issue and one that we share not to embarrass our son. He's 5yrs old, and the doctor's are telling us we might expect some percentage of permanent hearing loss. A few weeks ago, I noticed something odd about his hearing and didn't dismiss it as a young child being stubborn. We did an impromptu hearing test and he didn't do so well. So we went to his pediatrician. She said she suspected fluid, and because we were leaving the country in 3 months, put him on aggressive anti-biotics.
Aggressive anti-biotics is a bit scary of a thought because I had heard of children being deaf because of this type of treatment for ear infections. In fact memory serves that one year our son had 2 infections and the dr. said a third would require tubes instead of anti-biotics.
The treatment possibly cleared up the fluid but a tympanogram proved no movement of his tympanic membrane. So we went to an audiologist who said there might be "some" fluid but they suspect a percentage of permanent loss.
So on Tuesday we see a specialist. What are they going to tell us? We don't know yet. We have many questions.
We need more data on his situation first. As you would guess, there are a lot of questions, and a lot of prayer needed about this right now.
As always, Pray that God would envelop us in a pocket of God's presence. That we would defer all decisions to Him, that we would submit gladly to His will and recognize it.
Yesterday we sold the kid’s swingset. AT noon I posted on craigslist, by 1pm I had cash in hand and someone was tearing down the big wooden structure. By 4pm the structure was gone. That was nice.
I love our kids. Another example of God preparing them for this ministry. They take change so well. My son is anxiously awaiting today when we give the neighbor his train table.
That was a funny moment for me. I had forgotten my daughter knows her apple types well.
Today I said goodbye to my vhs movie collection. I started it in 1991, in college I used to lend movies to people. As a young kid my mom used to say “you have a gift for remembering movie trivia.” And I did, and I do.
When people ask my hobbies I often say “film”. But I don’t say it with pride, I say it with shame.
When we’re sitting around talking and someone says “you know that guy.. in that one film… who did that thing?” and I quickly reply with all the relevant data. I don’t take joy in that.
It was easy on some of the lame ones, and harder when I got to some of my favorite classics.
I was struck by a sobering thought. I looked at the futility of collecting these movies now on a nearly defunct medium, unloved for years, and finally put into the trash.
I felt sad, as if I had wasted a lot of time and energy.
I wonder if this is a small fraction of what it would feel like to stand before God on judgement day and realize your entire life was spent chasing the wrong thing.
Lord, I don’t want to chase the wrong things. I know movies aren’t sinful, but I also know they're trifles, not things to be largely concerned with. God help me not to continue the habit of spending too much time on trifles. God give me a consuming fire for your Word. God I know myself and I know I have these moments of clarity that are later overridden by unbroken habits. God help me to break that habit.
When we first started this adventure we had a list of prayer requests before God.
"God, these are the concerns on our heart, we will follow you and obey you regardless of whether or not these are answered, but we put them before you."
In the past year, that list has been systematically answered.
We still have petitions before Him, but He has graciously answered the chief concerns on our heart, and now we stand before the threshold ready to serve Him with an unburdened and unworried heart. It is such a wonderful confirmation that God would alleviate those concerns of ours.
We have all but 2 pieces of papers in to submit our visa application. We've been working hard on this. There are many doctor's visits and revisits to get all the papers we need. I'm anxiously awaiting one email so we can submit our visas.
We're starting to investigate air fare to Papua New Guinea! 95% is when you begin the final preparations!
--we still need free long term storage for our stuff.
--we still need around $160 more p/month to meet our criteria.
-God is working, he's comforting our last minute worries, He's providing for us in so many ways, He's even making work exodus go smoothly.
I had a dream last night that shook me a bit. I rarely pay attention to dreams, but you know sometimes they can affect you emotionally as you wake up and start your day. I woke up with questions and fears. Instinctively I turned to the Word. I grabbed my "Message" and walked outside after 6am and read it. Sometimes the Message is best for morning light reading. I prefer NKJ for the more mental exercises.
--God what if I'm making a huge mistake? Should I keep my job?
--God what about the spiritual attack I'll be putting my family under?
they're a joke with no punch line.
--God what if I make a huge mistake and mess up my family's future?
his path blazed by God, he's happy.
God has a grip on his hand.
--Okay I get it, but God how do I make sure I don't falter and mess things up? I'm only human.
his feet are as sure as a cat's.
insolent souls are on a dead-end street.
God speaks to His people. I am very uplifted. I've been listening to John Piper and one thing he mentions is that there are two parts of the Christian faith.
the other is desiring God.
I tell you my passion is that God's Word would pump through my life like blood through my veins. WOW. I can't help but get excited about that. God is so good, so praiseworthy! Get excited about His stuff!
I recently got an email.
We've been praying that God would see fit to increase the bandwidth in PNG before we got onsight in January.
the email today was exciting news. they are deploying new internet service technology (I'm being vague on purpose) which will allow them more reliability and bandwidth!
There are a lot of technical questions at the moment, but, it is a definite and direct answer to prayer.
God is awesome. He chooses to bless us through continued answer to prayer and He is worthy of praise. When we see answers to prayer like this we get excited! God thank you! We do not deserve these mercies!
Well, summer is over and the kids are back in school. Calvin started Kindergarten this year and Sydney is in second grade. We had a very busy summer, but were blessed to have a chance to spend lots of time with some of our extended family. Those times become much more precious when you realize that by next summer we will be living halfway across the globe.
We’d like to take a minute to say thanks to all of you who are partnering with us in this journey. Your prayers and financial support are invaluable. We are definitely looking forward to getting to Papua New Guinea, but this time we spend in preparation has given us a chance to get to know some amazing people who are a part of our team. In fact, this summer Kendal had the privilege of meeting some of our prayer partners. The residents of the retirement community where Kendal’s mom works have been faithfully praying for us for the past year. While in Oregon this summer, Kendal had a chance to meet this amazing group of people and share with them a little more about what we will be doing and where we are going. What a blessing to meet and share with these faithful members of our team!
We are at 84.8% with $600 p/month left to discover.
We don’t use the word “raise” because really we aren’t earning or raising any money, but you as our partners are supporting us because you care.
We are constantly reminded that we are on God’s clock, not our own. Personally, I (Chad) would like to see 100% before September ends. That would mean we could buy plane tickets to North Carolina at the best value, and make all our training on time, as well as finalize the details of moving. It is an interesting limbo state that we are currently in. If we do not reach 100% in time to purchase plane tickets and leave in January, then we will have to wait until the following August to go. God is sovereign, His timing is perfect. He has answered so many prayers that indicate that this January is the right time that we are acting in faith He will provide. All signs point to January as being when He wants us to depart, which is why we strongly believe we will reach 100% in time.
Please pray. Currently we have reached out to everyone we know, and friends of people we know. Historically missions finances primarily come from churches, but that does not seem to be the method God had in mind for us as over 95% of our current funds come from individuals.
If you attend a church that has an active missions department please contact us.
If you are interested in partnering with us through prayer or finances please contact us.
Please pray that God provide the 100% in time.
Again, thank you to everyone for your prayer and support. It takes a team to accomplish this work, and we are very thankful to God for you.
wow, a lot of stuff has happened.
In the interest of getting the information out, we sort of hacked up the original format to squeeze in the info.
2 - God would bring folks who have committed to joining us, to telling us what level they are comfortable with.... .still in progress but some folks are saying "remember when we committed months ago.. .well this is how much we'd like to give.."
God really worked out a major issue for us. POC is a 14 week in country camp/training based on teaching you how to live in the country. My future manager needs me at the job at soon as possible to train me before he leaves in country. If I were to attend the 14 week training it would drastically lower my ability to do my job right out of the gates (I like to hit the ground running).
So now the story is... in January we'll be attending 5 weeks of training, move to PNG, live there for 6 months, and then go to the 14 week training, which will allow us not only to have more time acclimating, but create a better appreciation for the 14 week training as well as more preparation.
All in all, God moved a mighty mountain for us recently!
and we're waiting for the final 24% of people to let us know what they are comfortable with committing to!
We're excited... the rubber is meeting the road and we're ready to go!!!
-that our funding hits 100% by September.
-that our visas and work permits go through smoothly.
This is very exciting stuff! We're seeing God answer prayers in His incredible style!
People are asking us if we're excited. The answer is yes!
Today we moved passed the 70% support line into 75% support!
That is exciting. 80% is our next milestone. We'd like to be there by the end of July. And we'd like to be at 100% by the end of August.
That's our timing, God's timing seems to be keeping in line with that, and we definitely will wait on Him.
We are going to take some family time this July, and hope to fit in some time to visit churches and friends.
We have submitted the application for the kids enrolment to school, and we have finalized the Visa application (it takes a while to get all the documentation in) and are sending it in today.
Pray that all paperwork gets to it's proper destination and is processed in a timely fashion and that things go smoothly.
It is definitely a discipline to do your paperwork thoroughly and on time, and completely. A discipline that is part of the job and that we are learning.
On a personal note, I find it ironic because I have always disliked paperwork, and now I am at a time in my life when paperwork is a huge portion of my day.
Doesn't God always work like that? Always trying to strengthen us in our weak areas (-;. As my folks used to say... "it builds character".
Today marks 67% of our financial goal!
We have begun our Visa application process and require prayer that it goes smoothly.
There is a lot of paperwork to fill out and rules and regulations to adhere to, official copies of this and that to get and such.
We do our best to make sure this all goes through smoothly, and then trust God to guide it all to the right people to get it through. As we start sending off document after document, pray for it's smooth sailing.
We are now at 60% financial partnership! Only 40% more to go! If you know of any interested parties we have yet to contact please let us know.
the financial data is out of date because in 2 weeks time we have had such a response that we were unable to keep up with it.
we've finished newsletter2, a few weeks ago.
now we're compiling everyone's email addresses.
With each email we send out, we save approximately one dollar. (printing costs and mailing costs).
So in the interest of stewardship, we've taken the extra week to compile email addresses.
51% financial partnership!!!! (as of 5/13/06) We jumped right passed 50 and went straight to 51% !!! YAH....YIPPEEE!!! (didn't want to give a search engine free advertising).
Also, for those of you who desire a more personal touch, the newsletters aren't it. The newsletters go to a wide range of people, and as such, are typically more informative and general... as is the news.
For the personal touch, look first to the blog, which while public, is more personal. And secondly we do try to keep in touch with everyone on a personal level as well.
If you have any questions, or simply want to talk, we would love to have a chat with you.
God answers prayer in incredible ways.
I (chad) have learned throughout my life to pray for everything. I don't believe in coincidence, and I don't believe anything is too small to pray about. God is all powerful, to Him it is as hard to raise full support for missions as it is to find a good parking space. His power can handle both with relative ease. In our eyes, things are harder, and so we tend to gravitate towards only releasing the harder things to God. BUT, in my daily life I pray continually, and while I sometimes do feel silly praying for the small stuff, I definitely have seen God take those opportunities to be glorified and encourage me.
Well I was taking my time, not being rude at all, and I paused at an intersection to let people go, but jsut as I did, a large group of people decided to cross the street and block the river of traffic coming at me, so I took the opportunity and pulled behind a big convertable with one man driving.
His bumper stickers read: "hedonist" "apes evolved from creationists" and "boycott A.A."
I thought "God, this man apparently lives his life in mockery of you."
Well, the man was looking to his left, I don't know why, because I was looking to my right, and right in front of him, a car was pulling out.
This man missed it completely, and I got a prime parking spot.
I laughed and thanked God.
Not only, did God part the waters to allow me to drive smoothly, but He gave me a perfect parking spot in a very encouraging way as if to say "there will be those that mock me, but I reward my faithful."
It seems like a small thing, but I believe when you have eyes to see, you can see God working everywhere.
I do not know how many of these thoughts I should share. They are personal and not completely matured. Yet we desire to remain sincere and open to those who support us, because the end goal is to glorify God. Sincerely voicing the thoughts and struggles are part of the missionary process. People can never truly know unless you share, and unfortunately for the reader, when I am passionate I am also verbose (well on paper anyway). Keep in mind as you read, the context, we haven't been in the field for many years and thus we consult those who have been and are encouraged. We're aware we probably represent the youthful vitality one expects from "newbies".
I see friends in professional ministry being absorbed by the frustrations of the professional side of their work. I see movies about priests that have lost their faith. Always these movies show men who once had a lively relationship with God and now are consumed with selfish desires and have lost that connection with God. I hear of missionaries who burn out and return home from the field.
I desire to serve God with my life. God can search my heart and know that I am a wickedly selfish man. I know that I am no good on my own. I know that I seek out selfish pursuits, but also, if I possess any wisdom at all, I know that these pursuits will not end in happiness, and the only true contentment can be found in God’s presence. On top of that I know that all of these things are temporary. My life is flying past my eyes, and the only investment worth making is in God’s eternal kingdom.
Worship helps me with my focus and motivation. I read the Scripture and I see God’s character and in a world where all is failing me, where many things are empty and devoid of goodness I see God shining above it all. God is so good and so Holy. And when I concentrate on that, little else matters to me. My self fades away, my soul desires to be with God’s holiness. As if I’m taking a huge drink after years of thirst, soaking in God’s holiness. It doesn’t matter where I am or what I’m doing, so long as I’m worshiping God through thought and action, and whatever I end up doing, I need to be convinced that I’m doing it to worship the goodness of God. Right now, I’m convinced the way to do that is to go to PNG and take my family. The risk is that we would be consumed by the process and lose sight of worshiping God, which would be the failure of the project. But I see no evidence that in not going that risk becomes any less. In fact, I am anxious for the opportunity to throw my life into a situation where I am stripped of my American culture and comforts and thus can measure how much I truly depend on God for all things. And continue to live a life where I am dependant upon God.
As a westerner, there is much I do not understand about dependence.
4And do you remember God's answer?
5It's the same today. There's a fiercely loyal minority still--not many, perhaps, but probably more than you think. 6They're holding on, not because of what they think they're going to get out of it, but because they're convinced of God's grace and purpose in choosing them. If they were only thinking of their own immediate self-interest, they would have left long ago.
My selfish nature and Bible study already tell me what I will get out of serving God, assuming I do it correctly. But I also know that none of these rewards will be sufficient motivation to forebear the suffering that will most likely accompany any faith developing scenario. (I use the term faith-developing instead of testing on purpose). So these rewards are not what motivates me. There is a sense of duty, yes. A sense of doing what is right also. There is a sense of not losing face among those invested in our success as well. But these motivations will crack under the pressure too. The motivation that will truly uphold us during the times when we can’t take any more, will be because we are convinced of God’s grace and purpose in choosing us. And we are. God’s grace is immeasurable. The fact that He chose us is inconceivable. We are fully confident of this. Couple that with a daily dose of worshiping His goodness and Holiness and what you have are addicts for God.
Perhaps this pushes the illustration a bit extreme. A drug addict, will do anything for their next fix. But they also know when they’re getting fake stuff. It doesn’t have the same effect.
That is how we intend to let the Spirit be our rudder. When entering God’s presence and sensing even a sliver of His holiness becomes something we can no longer do we will know that there is an issue we need to work out and right before God.
We desire to be submissive to Him, so we can stay close to Him, because He is good. We are addicted to God's holiness, we breath it in as often as we can. When you remain in this state, you eyes and ears and heart maintain a sensitivity to the Spirit that helps guide.
The risk of losing sight of God's plan is the same at home as it would be in the field. The pressures are strong against you whenever you are doing what God would have you do. The cultural adaptation stress can be a huge factor. As a missionary you are more in the public eye. A spiritual failure at home can go unnoticed, but a spiritual failure in the field will not go unnoticed. Also though, the stigma that comes with a missionary returning before retiring is that perhaps they failed in their mission. It's sad but that is an assumption that some folks make "what went wrong?" Maybe nothing went wrong at all. But that is a different topic.
We refuse to disobey God's call because the risk for failure is great. The risk of embarrassment is great. Failure is simply not an option. My family has been specifically prepared for this, we have been specifically called. We have the qualities required for success both in faith, character and personality. I can give you a very convincing resume of why we are very well suited for the work before us, and odds are you already know us and are convinced of our abilities yourself (otherwise you would not be supporting us). But none of that matters. There is only one requirement God needs and that is willingness. We are obedient and willing and submissive to what God puts on our hearts. God does the rest. In fact He even accomplishes the obedience and willingness simply by means of being who He is. He is completely good, and completely Holy. We are compelled to Him. We are not relying on odds or on pedigrees, we are relying solely on God's provision. God will not fail, and thus we will cling to His coat tails the entire way.
Yes the pressures of cultural adaptation will be great. Yes the spiritual warfare will be present. Yes financial pressure will be a stress. There is a long list of reasons why we can fail. God is greater than all of them, God does not fail. We can fail, we will fail. God will prove faithful and compensate.
As partners in this ministry you have opened yourselves up for failure as well. You have committed to pray for us, and the more effective our ministry is at tearing down the strongholds of Satan, the more the people who pray for us will be under attack. Few consider this. Know that God overcomes. God is faithful.
And so, when the times come where we feel we want to give up, we will first go to God and admit it. We will ask God to shore us up, to meet us and supply. No one truly seeks to suffer, but we will not shy from it when it comes. We expect hardship, something that as Americans who have been blessed our entire lives is not something that we confront often. So when it comes, many people will wonder if we will be able to handle it or not. We don't know ourselves, but we do know that our instinctive reaction will be to plead to God for help through it. We do not ask to avoid pain, but we desire to seek God's face in the midst of it, and in the end, be more fit to glorify God.
We look forward to blogging the great stories of God proving faithful. For where the odds are their worst, when things seem impossible, those are the places that God absolutely shines without doubt. We are so anxious for those times, because it brings us all closer to God. Pray for those times for yourself and each other. Pray that this ministry would be a collective of submissive servants who live only so that God can be glorified.
Burnout is a reality. Stress can be overwhelming. Wycliffe has mandatory counciling and has good training and preparation for handling stress. We have been reading books and studying to prepare. Many practical steps have been taken to assure the full success of this ministry, but in the end, it comes down to the reality of every situation in life. How much are we going to try and handle without God? The answer is 0.00% There isn't any success to be had on our own.
after re-reading this I realize that we have already undergone some spiritual attack and stress and suffering. In each instance, as a couple we immediately turned to God in prayer. In each instance, God met us there quickly and completely and so amazingly "God-like" that it was undeniably Him. The term "God-thing" applies because it is during these moments of sorrow, stress, weakness, complete humanity, that God is glorified because only He fit those jigsaw like missing pieces of the puzzle.
The story we blogged about my daughter carrying the backpack for my wife was such an example of God supplying for us when we were needing encouragement greatly.
well, since we're not really sure at what time we'll be leaving or ready to go, we're in a mode of.... preparing. Faithfully working towards the idea that the money will come in before January '07.
we're planning to pack for a trip to a place we've never lived in.
Well first we talk to a lot of folks who live there or have lived there, and take in all their advice.
Then we look at our belongings and consider what can stay and what needs to go. Ironically we look forward to simplifying our lives, and yet have been advised to buy many things unobtainable over there. Like advil.
In the midst of this we are keeping in mind the idea of simple living. Depending on God. And balancing that with our passion to create a home environment for people.
for me personally, it seems very silly to be asking "how many computers should I bring?"
one for me, one for the wife, one for the kids, one for spare parts, one as a server...... really how many is "enough".
For my wife the question is photo albums, we're told not to bring anything we can't afford to lose at first... should something go wrong somewhere in the shipping process.
and then... we'll most likely need to move all of this stuff multiple times a year.
Managing this issue of "stuff" is a blessing to us from God because my wife and I are rather compatible in this area. Neither of us are too materialistic. Both of us have our areas of "i need this..." and each of us can be stretched and challenged enough to adapt that it makes it an adventure.
We both loved "colonial house" (a pbs special). The idea of getting away from dependence on technology, of a return to simplicity.
Now we are facing the reality of making choices... what stays, what goes, and what needs to be purchased for whatever reason to take with us?
Whatever decisions are made, we'll survive and be strengthened by any "lack" we might experience.
We also hope that it will develop a truer sense of priorities. Even if we think our priorities are right now, there is nothing like good old fashion testing your mettle.
-physical conditioning to be able to handle the training camp 3 day backpacking hike.
well we are working on finding the people who want to partner with us in prayer and or financially. We have spoken in a few groups, and right now see our ministry as a process of informing and discovering. Our home church is having a missions emphasis month and so we're involved in helping other missionaries where we can.
We're writing a lot of letters right now, and seeing where that leads.
We're at 23% of our goal right now, and we're hoping to be at 100% before August but that all depends on God's timing.
This part of the process is the part where there might not be as much to blog primarily because financial matters inherently involve a bit of privacy.
But we can still talk about what God is doing and what He is showing us. Right now He is showing us how wonderfully excited so many of you are about us as friends and about our joining together in ministry!


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Almost a decade ago, a major change came to the Academy Awards. It was 2008, and The Dark Knight was on everyone’s lips. It captured the box-office dollars, naturally. It was one of the best reviewed films of the year, surprisingly. And it featured one of the greatest (and soon-to-be Oscar-winning) performances ever committed to film. It had all the makings of a Best Picture nominee. But it was a “genre” film. As they often do, the Academy failed to take it seriously, and its snub from the five nominees was met with angry howls, and not just from Batman fans.
Fearing they were losing touch with modern-day audiences (the ratings for the Oscars ceremony were spiraling down, year by year), the Academy made the bold decision to increase their Best Picture nominees from five to 10, hearkening back to the 1930s and 40s when this was how the Oscars were run. It was hoped this would widen the possibilities for “genre” or blockbuster films of the future to get a look in. And for a while it worked.
That first year of ten nominees saw hugely popular films like Up and Avatar included, as well as something as left-field as District 9. Likewise with the following year, with the inclusion of Toy Story 3 and Inception. But it was short-lived, and the last few years have seen the Academy fall back to nominating the same type of films it had always given preference to – dramas, period pieces, and biopics. Even though a comic-book superhero film was the catalyst for this expansion of nominees, a film of that genre has still failed to receive a Best Picture nomination.
And that’s not for a lack of possibilities. Films like Guardians of the Galaxy, Deadpool, The Avengers, and Captain America: The Winter Soldier certainly had the rave reviews and the box-office results to be considered. Deadpool even managed to squeak in to the Golden Globe and PGA nominations. Yet all were overlooked by the Academy, much to the chagrin of those who deem these movies worthy of more than just box-office dollars. That could all change with the arrival of a film that truly demands to be amongst this year’s nominees – Wonder Woman.
Now just hear me out. I know a lot of people will groan and roll their eyes. It’s just a fun action popcorn flick, right? How dare I say it should be included as one of the best films of the year? But there’s so much more to Wonder Woman than just entertainment. Few pieces of cinema have captured the cultural zeitgeist this year like Patty Jenkins’ brilliant film. And it wasn’t so long ago when the Academy would indeed recognise such buzzed-about films.
Star Wars, Jaws, ET, Raiders of the Lost Ark, The Exorcist, Beauty and the Beast – all were nominated for Best Picture, and that was when there were only five slots available. If you don’t know your Oscars history, this could be pretty shocking, right? I genuinely feel the majority of these would not be nominated today. They’re all “genre” films outside the usual Oscar-bait genres. They all made huge box-office dollars. They all had enormous impact on pop culture. And they were all wonderful popcorn cinema. Yet they all found themselves nominated for the big prize. So why can’t Wonder Woman do the same?
But there’s something Wonder Woman has that none of these previous nominees did – the weight of cultural importance. It’s been a difficult time for women lately, what with Hillary’s crushing loss and the disgraceful sexual harassment scandals plaguing Hollywood. The arrival of a brave, intelligent, and heroic female cinematic icon could not have been more timely, especially delivered to us by a female director. In the insanely hyper-masculine world of superhero films, a pair of females have shown up the men and delivered something truly masterful.
This is perfectly typified by the sequence where Diana ignores the warnings of her non-believer male cohorts and bravely crosses the No Man’s Land battlefield, deflecting bullets and striking down her enemies. It truly was one of the greatest moments in cinema this year. Or any year. It was a scene women could cheer for. Here was a strong female superhero, not using her beauty to win the day. Diana is fierce with a capital F. And it has nothing to do with how she looks.
Yes, Gal Gadot is utterly gorgeous. And yes, her costume shows off her striking physique. But it’s never played for glorification. It’s a minor aspect of this character, and overlooking her beauty is part of Jenkins’ deft vision for this film. She wants you to see the strength of the woman by what’s in her very core, not what we see when we look at her. Jenkins and Gadot fill this film with lashings of heart, humour, wit, and, most importantly, hope.
That hope spreads outside the film itself, in that Wonder Woman is a clear example that films led and crafted by women can indeed make box-office dollars. Audiences of both genders want to see females at the forefront of any type of film. This was proven by the results the film achieved, which are utterly astonishing, to say the least. $821 million worldwide, $412 million from the US alone. The biggest box-office ever for a film directed by a female. The biggest box-office of the new DC franchise. The biggest superhero origin film of all-time. For a film many worried would fail, these numbers are staggering. And that kind of success deserves to be recognised by the Academy.
But it’s not just the huge financial success of the film that demands it be a Best Picture nominee. The film itself is expertly crafted and wonderfully made. The screenplay is emotional and perfectly paced, filled with engaging character development for Diana and those surrounding her. It’s beautifully shot and features glorious production and costume design. It has a soaring score, with that now-iconic Wonder Woman theme song, taking centre-stage. The casting is utter perfection. And it’s just downright entertaining, from start to finish. What more could you want from a Best Picture nominee?
Now I can bang on about how great this film is and why it deserves to be nominated until I’m blue in the face, but can it actually happen? The answer is absolutely yes. I won’t bore you with the rather complicated process of how the final nominees for Best Picture are chosen. It’s a preferential ballot system, and just thinking about how it all works makes my head spin. If you are curious to the ins-and-outs of the process, Steve Pond of The Wrap summarises it rather neatly here.
Basically, to secure the nomination, Wonder Woman will need to receive around 200 or so #1 votes on the nomination ballot forms. Doesn’t sound all that many, does it? But I know the Academy. And I know what they’re like, or rather, what films they like. It’s not going to be easy to change people’s minds about what constitutes a Best Picture-worthy nominee. The old white guys of the Academy are probably so freaked out by this film, they’d rather pick anything but Wonder Woman this year. But, fittingly, there is hope.
Over the last few years, the Academy has been increasing and diversifying its memberships rank, as a response to the embarrassing #OscarsSoWhite backlash. Earlier this year, the Academy added over 700 new members to their voting pool, including Gal Gadot herself. This new group of voters are younger and more diverse, with many women and people of colour joining the vote. Is it that unfathomable to think many of these new voters adored Wonder Woman and would love to see it represented on Oscar night?
And the other glimmer of hope is Warner Bros. and their commitment to launch a full-scale Oscar campaign for this film, across all categories. I’ve spoken many times before about the importance of Oscar campaigning in the modern-day awards season, so this bodes extremely well for the film’s chances. They will likely spend big bucks on this campaign. Nabbing a Best Picture nomination would be a major coup for the studio, especially over its intense rival, Marvel Studios. To be the studio responsible for the first superhero film to receive a Best Picture nomination is something Warner Bros. would desperately love. And with intelligent and articulate women like Jenkins and Gadot leading the campaigning over the next few months, it genuinely could be on the cards.
Wonder Woman is one of the greatest success stories of cinema in 2017. It’s one of the best films we’ve seen this year, and one of the most lovingly received by audiences and critics alike. It’s a triumph of blockbuster filmmaking, and a turning-point for the role of women in cinema, both in-front-of and behind the camera. These very notions demand it be considered as a Best Picture nominee, and I implore the Academy to make it happen.


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Dan and Helen are a young married couple I drove from one bar to another Sunday night. And they are the kind of people that make Ubering so much fun.
“Yeah, she totally screwed it up,” Dan said facetiously.
“She has a hard time admitting when she’s wrong,” Dan confided to me.
“You guys are married, right?” I said.
To my amazement, they both laughed. “That’s what I’m talking about. To the point,” said Dan.
“Also a stick.” I said.
She couldn’t know that I’m exactly fifty years old and, of course, a dad.
They both thought that was hilarious.
When we pulled up to A.J. Gators, they spotted a friend sitting outside and called to him.
Dustin, a middle-aged black man with freckles, dreadlocks, and a big smile approached the open passenger side window.
“What do you call a boomerang that doesn’t come back?” I said by way of introduction.
It took him about three seconds and then he let out a genuine belly laugh. He fist-bumped me through the window and climbed into the backseat with Helen. He wanted more.
“Holy sh–, a talking muffin!”interrupted Helen. She was so thrilled to give me a taste of my own medicine.
Dan slipped me a twenty as a tip. I protested that it was too much.
They all three got out full of laughter and camaraderie.


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Our Community Support Scheme has now donated over £150,000 to deserving causes throughout Nottinghamshire, Derbyshire and surrounding areas since the Scheme was established in 2008. The milestone was reached when the Scheme’s trustees agreed to distribute another £20,000 to 40 groups in 2017 looking for funding to help bring their plans to life.
The Community Support Scheme was established to provide financial assistance to a range of local community groups, clubs and charities that selflessly devote their time and energy to improve the quality of life for communities throughout our region.
Applications are invited from organisations that assist the disadvantaged; promote and encourage participation in sporting activities or the arts; support education; or benefit the environment.
A total of 387 donations have now been made to local community groups since May 2008 with beneficiaries including Over 60's Youthful Group, Age UK Notts, Chesterfield Amateur Boxing Club, Mansfield First Responders, Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust, Central Nottinghamshire MIND, Mansfield Senior Reds Walking Football Club, Mansfield and North Nottinghamshire Society for Deaf People and many, many more.
The Society’s donations have helped groups in our heartland area fund a variety of things, including new kayaks and associated safety equipment, defibrillators, a fibre optic carpet for those living with autism, and even a lawnmower for a local crown bowling club to maintain its facilities.
Gev Lynott, Chief Executive Officer at the Society, said “We’re delighted to have helped so many great causes across the region through our Community Support Scheme. I am always amazed by the selfless generosity of individuals who give their time week in, week out, to provide invaluable support to improve the lives of others.
To find out more about our Community Support Scheme or to download an application form, click here.


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Welcome to Ask the Expert section again. We are in our Week 2 now. CAT 2013 preparations are in full swing now. This week’s questions are answered by a veteran – ARKSS. ARKSS has taught thousands of students over the last 15 years and is famous for his motivational pep talks and infusing an aggressive and positive mindset. ARKSS Is the CEO of Vistamind and was formerly the Director of TIME. He is a PGDCM from IIM Calcutta.
ARKSS talks about how working professionals can manage despite the demands of a modern day job and also gives invaluable tips on tackling verbal. He also believes 2015 and 2016 will be the best time to graduate from a good business school in India.
1) I work 12 hours a day on the weekdays leaving me with no time to study except weekends. How do I plan? I am struggling in the mocks.
2) My Verbal scores are terrible in the mocks especially Reading Comprehension. How can I improve in a short time?
3) Selection criteria, normalization concern me a lot. The recent CAT Scam affects me too. How do I approach the CAT negativity and cynicism?
4) Is it a good idea to invest 2 years and spend 1 Million on the MBA in this economy?
Watch the 15 Min video and hear from ARKSS. If you have any questions, leave them below. For all courses offered by Vistamind please click here. You can get a 10% discount on all Vistamind products by using our Store. See all Vistamind products listed here.