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Leadership in the New Millennium

Effective leaders are rare. They are created through the trials and tribulations of managing or working with people in a variety of settings. Most good leaders have had their fair share of hard knocks that awakened them to the greater potential within their scope of influence. Effective leaders are excellent communicators, able to speak the many languages of the individuals within the groups they lead. Oftentimes the individual perspectives may appear different simply from the type of language they use. A good leader pays attention to the facts and then makes decisions based on objective analysis of those facts, which is not to say that humanitarian factors succumb to the bottom line.

Effective leaders naturally motivate people from their actions, which include showing respect, listening, reflecting, and negotiating through conflict. Efficient leaders learn the strengths and weaknesses of their subordinates and cohorts and utilize group dynamics. Leaders encourage and empower people to achieve success rather than place blame. Leaders have solid vision and unshakeable persistence in achieving a goal. Serendipity follows them everywhere as if their environments are alive and vibrant with creative energy just waiting for an opportunity to manifest a synchronicity.. Their efforts are empowered by their ability to manage and organize both activities and time in their busy schedules.

A good leader is courageous, able to make decisions without hesitation, and maintains integrity of word and deed. Dependability is also a key trait for a leader must always be there for their group. Sound judgment and sensibility are also features of a leader, with loyalty, enthusiasm, endurance, and initiative rounding out the ever-expanding list. These characteristics manifest in a variety of presentations and situations, especially for project managers in process.

Project Manager Effectiveness
Project managers are leaders of small and large groups destined to complete a strategic project plan. Leadership characteristics described above can make or break a team. In all successful project fulfillments, it is the leadership of the project manager that determines the type of success for the project’s members. The most successful accomplishments are met with a sense of fun and reward when goals and objectives are met, all facilitated by the project manager’s leadership. “Persistent leadership is required to make partnering work. Project managers must “walk the talk” and consistently display a collaborative response to problems. Similarly, top management must consistently and visibly champion the principles of openness, trust, and teamwork.” (Gray and Larson, 2001, p. 373)

There is also an emerging element in project management. It was first introduced by Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi in his book Flow – The Psychology of Optimal Experience. (Harper and Row, 1990). He states that, “Instead of accepting the unity of purpose provided by genetic instructions or by the rules of society, the challenge for us is to create harmony based on reason and choice.” This reason and choice are the foundations of project management.

People are more productive when they have optimal experience, a sense of flow to their personal and professional lives. Mr. Csikszentmihalyi describes flow as “being completely involved in an activity for its own sake. The ego falls away. Time flies. Every action, movement, and thought follows inevitably from the previous one, like playing jazz. Your whole being is involved, and you’re using your skills to the utmost.” This is the foundation for the highest productivity in any organization.

Project managers of today are successful due to their interpersonal relationships with everyone associated with the project. Providing an environment noted by Gray and Larson means that to incorporate the concepts and a delivery mechanism of optimal performance, Flow has to be incorporated within the foundation of the strategic plan. The attention given to this process empowers the leadership skills of each member of the team. Empowered leaders facilitate action and results, often better than anticipated.

CEO Comparisons
Leadership styles that are successful in one industry may not garner the same results in another. The integrity of James Burke, CEO of Johnson & Johnson, led the company out of a potential disaster when Tylenol’s tampering took place. Instead of following the recommendations of both the FBI and the Food and Drug Association, they recalled the entire supply on the market, even replacing customers’ capsule bottles with tablets. On the other hand, had he been faced with the knowledge that fossil fuel use is polluting air, ground, and waters of the world, would he have recalled the oil?

More often than not in the 80s, CEOs’ management styles were often tailored to their particular industry. Defense contractors had traditionally been led by threat rather than reward; demanding and commanding compliance and performance. Managing by threat creates an atmosphere of mistrust, which is diametrically opposed to current management philosophy. Many companies in this industry now have initiated a variety of sensitivity programs to bolster moral and productivity.

Inspired stakeholder involvement creates opportunity for evolutionary leaps in a learning organization, across the gamut of organizational type or industry.

Code of Ethics
The Project Manager Code of Ethics described in the text begins with:
“Project Management Professionals, in the pursuit of their profession, affect the quality of life for all people in our society. Therefore, it is vital that Project Management Professionals conduct their work in an ethical manner to earn and maintain the confidence of team members, colleagues, employees, clients, and the public.” (Gray and Larson, 2001, p. 550)

The Articles within the Code of Ethics describe the optimal practices of human accountability, creativity, and responsibility. With minor nomenclature changes, it could very well read like the articles for developing any kind of organizational foundation. Leaders, true leaders, exemplify these Articles in their daily living. It is the following of the precepts set forth in these Articles that make them the recognized leaders within the organizations they serve, be it a corporation or community.

In Waking Up – Overcoming the Obstacles to Human Potential (1986), Dr. Charles Tart postulates our will is largely a mechanical reaction based on conditioning, intelligence is severely limited compared to what it could be, and there is no true self controlling life from a state of genuine self-consciousness. This discovery, not only by Dr. Tart, is changing the way personal and professional lives are working. The attitude of project management reflects this change. The qualities of leadership and project management demonstrate the symbiosis of creating results in life or in industry. There is little difference between the two in our evolving society.

In more practical applications, communities and municipalities depend on these best practices for survival now. For instance, AzDOT partnering meetings engage every stakeholder to create a partnering agreement mission statement with goals for the project team [stakeholders], a code of ethics, an issue resolution plan for jobsite activity and an issue resolution plan for all known or potential issues. The most effective leaders engage the spirit of partnering, create trust relationships with subcontractors by being trustworthy and more often than not bring in projects ahead of schedule and below budget from value engineering addendums. This leadership choice, the partnering meetings, also reduced lawsuits by over 800%. This practice begs inclusion in every commercial and/or community project, especially now.

This writer proposes that a true leader is priceless. Demonstrating the qualities of leadership not only wins friends and influences people; it sets the standard of behavior within an organization. The writer’s perspective of a true leader is one who leads people by example through using a synergy of charisma, tact and skill in handling challenges, concern for the rights and privileges of others and care for the positive impact on people and planet within the scope of their leadership and beyond.

Csikszentmihalyi, Mihaly (1990). Flow – The Psychology of Optimal Experience, New York, NY: Harper and Row Publishing.
Gray, Clifford F.; Larson, Erik W., Project Management – The Managerial Process, Copyright © 2001 by The McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc.
Tart, Dr. Charles (1986), Waking Up – Overcoming the Obstacles to Human Potential, Copyright © 1986 by The Institute of Noetic Sciences

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Saturday, August 28, 2004

My article in The Emory Wheel about the war in Iraq

I wrote this article because I wanted people to really know how the Iraqi people felt about the war in Iraq and their liberation from the murderer Saddam...I hope by publishing it here more people across the globe will get to read it rather than being restricted to the Emory University community here in Atlanta, GA...enjoy and I look forward to reading your comments!!!

An Iraqi's perspecctive on the war and its aftermath
By Nancy
March 19, 2004

These days, telling people I am from Iraq is a major thing that is followed by a flood of questions due to what is currently happening in my country — but that does not bother me at all. On the contrary, I usually welcome questions about my country and how I, as well as other Iraqis, feel about what is happening in our land. I welcome these questions because I want people to hear the Iraqi perspective from someone who has lived in Iraq under the former regime, and witnessed its horrific crimes. There are a lot of people who think they know what the Iraqis want, specifically those from the Middle East region. They think they are entitled to speak for the Iraqis because of their “brotherhood” ties with Iraq, so they express their opinions and views as being those of the Iraqi people when in fact they are the complete opposite.
The war declared against the bloody former regime of Saddam Hussein was the only way to end the Iraqi people’s long years of suffering, and the best decision that President Bush made.
War is a horrible event that causes tremendous destruction to our world and should be avoided when unnecessary. However, in very rare cases war must be initiated in order to establish peace and free an oppressed people. This was the case in Iraq.
The Iraqi people have been suffering under the former regime for 30 years. The crimes committed by Saddam and his gang are countless, ranging from kidnapping daughters from their parents and raping them to killing innocent youth in front of their families. And these are the “small” crimes — what about the eight years of war with Iran, where many young men were conscripted into the military and forced to fight? These unfortunate soldiers fought for an unknown cause; in the end, only to have their remains brought back to their families in body bags. What about Gulf War I, when a neighboring country was invaded for a stupid, invalid excuse? Again, this led to the death of many more Iraqis who did not even have the chance to breathe before being thrown into yet another hell.
Furthermore, we should not forget the most challenging years that the Iraqis had to endure: the 13 years under economic sanctions that only made Saddam more powerful and the Iraqis even weaker (which was not the goal that the sanctions were supposed to achieve). Saddam’s crimes continued to reach so far as to use the oil-for-food program to enhance his military and further oppress the people of Iraq.
All of this was going on while the rest of the world was sitting idle and watching. It was about time someone stood up and fought this dictator, and who was better for the job than the most powerful nation in the world, the United States?
Why should the United States fight for the Iraqis, you ask? The answer is simple. The United States was the reason Saddam Hussein became so powerful in the first place. It was the United States that supported him during the Iran-Iraq war, constantly providing him with weapons. Similarly, it was the United States that promised support to the big uprising formed by the Iraqis after Gulf War I, only to abandon them in the end to be crushed into pieces by Saddam’s gang.
The Iraqis waited patiently for a long time for this nightmare to be over, which is why, when the war was on the horizon almost a year ago, the majority of the Iraqi people supported it. Iraqis were awaiting the long-sought dream of when Saddam was caught and Iraq was free. The Iraqis welcomed their American liberators with open arms because they realized it was the only solution to end their suffering.
For the first time in a very long time, the interests of the Iraqi people collided with the interests of the United States. I believe that this can lead to great outcomes on both sides.
In addition, the United States’ presence in Iraq is also welcomed because it will assist in rebuilding Iraq, not only structurally, but in all other aspects of life. The United States will help teach the meaning of democracy to generations of Iraqis that have been brainwashed by the former regime and isolated from the entire world.
However, unlike what many people expect, this will not be an overnight change. It is impossible to turn a country that has been under destruction for 30 years, including three major wars, around in just a few months. People who think this is possible are obviously very naïve or trying to fool themselves. Rebuilding Iraq will be a slow, gradual process that will take years, but it will definitely happen. In fact, small changes in all areas of life can already be seen, and I know this from talking to family members who are still in Iraq.
Iraq will go back to its glory days, and the Iraqi people will again have the opportunity to live peacefully without the destruction of wars. Until then, we Iraqis want and need the United States presence in Iraq — we do not wish to be abandoned again. In short, the majorities of Iraqis supported this war and were ecstatic to see that monster being pulled out of his “rat hole” and humiliated.
I would also like to take this opportunity to say to all those who loved Saddam — specifically our neighboring “brothers” who were getting their pockets filled with the Iraqi people’s resources — thanks for doing nothing. All this time, you were watching the Iraqis getting slaughtered by the thousands while doing nothing. You watched us starve and die due to lack of medication and you did nothing. But when it was time to liberate us, you went out on protests, claimed that you were on our side, and misrepresented our viewpoint to the world. Congratulations! Your “hero” turned out to be a coward who lost the fight without a fight. Saddam Hussein lost and is gone forever. Despite all your efforts to stop us, we will rebuild Iraq, and it will turn into a democracy where peace and justice will fill people’s lives instead of violence and hatred.
—Nancy is a College sophomore from Baghdad.

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Saturday, December 28, 2013

Lectionary Notes for First Sunday after Christmas Day, Year A

Readings for First Sunday after Christmas, 12/29/13:
Isaiah 63:7-9, Psalm 148, Hebrews 2:10-18, Matthew 2:13-23

Isaiah 63:7-9:
  • Isaiah can pack a lot into a few short verses. "I will recount the gracious deeds of the Lord." Will you? What are the gracious deeds of God in your own life?
  • "It was no messenger or angel but [God's] presence that saved them." Excellently said. God came as God's own self to save us. We see that in Christ's coming to earth, but even more generally speaking, we can say that God throughout the scriptures is always directly involved with the people. A hands-on God. No intermediaries will do what God can do and does do.
Psalm 148:
  • I like Psalms that are simple and clear in their focus: Praise God, everything and everyone. It is a reminder to me, to us, in our worship preparations, to remember what is our focus: Praise God, everything and everyone. Sometimes we try so hard for something fantastic that we lose focus on why we put together such wonderful music, beautiful liturgies, and carefully crafted sermons. Praise God!
  • Psalms like this that include things like: sun, moon, starts, mountains, fire, hair, hills, trees, cattle, birds, young, old, men, women, rules, snow, and wind, all in one litany remind us of our relationship with ALL creation. A little stewardship of the earth, please? If the psalm says all creation praises God, we do a good job of putting a stop to the praise when we destroy the creation...
  • This image sort of reminds me of The Lion King when all the animals come to see the new baby Simba be ‘baptized’ – all creation is joining in. What a picture!
  • Creation is commanded by the psalmist to give praise because of its existence. Do we require more of God to give God praise? Do we only feel like praising when things are going our way or when we’ve received some desired request? Or do we praise because we are, because we have being?
  • V. 11-12 say that Kings and the regular people, rulers, young men and women, old men and women, all should praise together. Is that a good picture of worship today? How do we worship together from different walks of life? Who is missing from this full picture in our own congregations?
Hebrews 2:10-18:
  • Overall, the theology of this passage is not how I would articulate my theology. But nonetheless, some good points: "perfect through suffering" Have you experienced anything like this in your own life? Suffering making you stronger? More perfect? I don't think that God creates suffering for us to make us stronger, but I certainly believe God can work through our suffering to make us stronger.
  • "Jesus is not ashamed to call them brothers and sisters" I do like this part of the passage - the imagery throughout that we are siblings with Jesus Christ - his brothers, his sisters. He is like us, human like us. Yes, we view him as also divine, but without his being human, Jesus wouldn't mean much to us, or be able to reach us, and we wouldn't be able to seek to be like him, our brother.
  • "he did not come to help angels, but the descendants of Abraham." Similar to the sentiments in the Isaiah text for today - God didn't send someone else to save us, Isaiah says, and likewise, we read in Hebrews, God didn't come to save someone other than us. It's God and God's people. That's it.
Matthew 2:13-23:
  • I find Matthew's obsession with showing Christ as fulfilling Old Testament prophecy distracting. Count the times in this passage: at least three times in this one passage. I find Jesus' life and ministry compelling enough without his proof-texting. But obviously, to Matthew, it was very important to show this dotting of 'i's and crossing of 't's.
  • Complain, complain :) - Another thing I don't like about this passage is how one-sided the account is - Matthew talks all about Joseph here, and Joseph's taking "the child and his mother" - Mary is not even named! What are Mary's thoughts on all this?
  • Oh - Herod's killing of the babies. How terrible. It makes me think of the plague on the first born in Exodus, which was even more terrible since the scriptures attribute it as being carried out by God's hand.
  • What is the message for us here? This is about establishing Jesus' identity, for Matthew at least. It also tells us about God protecting the Christ-child. And Joseph's obedience to the angel's directives.
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Wednesday, 20 July 2011

Double You workshop by The W Project at 1948

Last week The W Project stopped by at the nike 1948 store, for a one day workshop for some of the young ladies of London. Peep the video for what went down that day.

Holdtight Teo and Loren always doing good things.

Loving bntl like a fat kid loves cake.

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Thursday, October 2, 2014

Almost there and almost more

Two days ago the tile by the front door was installed. I definitely like it BUT the transition from tile to carpet is too bulky. I think they should have trimmed more off when they folded the carpet under at the edge. It is a subtle tripping hazard as it stands, so it will need to be redone.

(The carpet is starting to show its age, but I don't want to get new until I no longer have Betsy. She suffers from occasional brain farts, thinks she is outside when she hits carpet. It doesn't happen often but often enough. Poor thing.)

Today there was a small parade of contractors through the house, taking care of this, that, and the other. Everything is done except some wall repair in the kitchen (in progress), and a decision is pending on what to do about the kitchen counter by the stove. Ideally, I want it to be replaced with something that has no seam, as it is a primary work surface. The only worse place to have a seam would be by the sink.

The deck company was supposed to start work around the end of September. Yesterday I was going to call them, but did not need to, as the underground utility guys showed up to mark the yard. That means installation is imminent. Whoo-hoo!

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Beverly Oaks Homeowners Association
First Voting Period 2017
to be completed on March 31, 2017

You will receive a confirming copy of your choices by e-mail.
If you do not receive the confirmation within 5 minutes, please re-vote.

Address (Beverly Oaks street number, list one if multiple)
Homes Owned
Re-enter e-mail
IMPORTANT: Please vote for what is in the best interests of the community as a whole. It is not always the same as what is in our personal best interests. Votes must be received by 3:00 PM, Friday March 31, 2017. If you change your mind before the deadline you may vote again - your last vote will be the one that is counted. This is a secret ballot - your vote is visible only to you and the independent counters. The Annual Meeting summary is located here:

Section 1: Amendment to the Covenants and Restrictions

Amendments are proposed changes to our governing documents. Sixty-seven percent (67%) approval is required to enact a change in the deed restrictions.

Proposal 1: No Street Parking in Lieu of Painting Curbs Red

Overview: This is an initiative of the board to manage street parking without painting the curbs red.

Proposed: This amendment would state that "Street parking is prohibited at all times and vehicles parked, unattended, for more than 1 hour may be towed without warning or notice. Additionally, a sign will be placed at the entry announcing the restriction.

Board Recommendation: The 2016 Board supports this initiative and it was received favorably at the annual meeting.

Impact: Positive financial impact to the Association ($200).

Note: 67% of the owners must approve this initiative for this transaction to be completed.

I approve the proposed amendment (does not affect dues)
I do not approve of the proposed amendment.

Proposal 2: Violation Fines - After Certified Letter

Overview: This is an initiative of the owners arising from the 2015, 2016 and 2017 annual meeting over frustrations that some owners repeatedly violating community standards, requirements, and rules. The amend is described here:

Proposed: This amendment provides a limited ability for the board to levy fines for a violation after (1) a certified warning letter has been sent and (2) a thirty day period to correct the violation has expired (3) and any requested and approved extensions have expired, (4) after any board appeals has been exhausted, and (5) after any third party appeals have been exhausted.

The monthly architectural fine shall not exceed 16.6% of the cost of the repair per month and be levied until the repair is made but for no more than 24 months. .

Board Recommendation: The 2016 Board supports this initiative and it was received favorably at the annual meeting.

Impact: Minor positive financial impact to the Association - miscellaneous income.

Note: 67% of the owners must approve this initiative for this transaction to be completed.

I approve the proposed amendment (does not affect dues)
I do not approve of the proposed amendment.

Section 2: Capital Repair Approvals

Capital Repairs: The are two capital repair projects scheduled this year and two proposed additions. The scheduled items are included in the capital repair plan approved by the owners 2011.

Project A: Street Repairs

Overview: The community streets have failed in 27 locations and are in a state of deterioration at those locations.

Proposed: It is proposed that the Association dispense between $40K - $50k from the capital budget to make these repairs and seal the remaining cracks with a clear colored sealant to slow down roadway deterioration. Download pdf to see map of repairs needed.

Impact: There is no impact on monthly dues rate. The project is currently out to bid to 10 contractors.

Project approved in 2016 - work in progress!

Project B: Repair of the Mailboxes

Overview: This initiative is to replace the current mail stations which are low security, in poor operating condition, have been broken into 3 times in the last year resulting in one cluster being out of commission for three weeks (mail had to be picked up at Plymouth Park).

The post office will only repair the boxes with old scrap yard boxes which are in extremely poor condition (click photo to enlarge). Mailbox theft is on the rise. Post Office care and maintenance of the postal clusters is rapidly eroding and repair budgets have been slashed / repair personal laid off.

Proposed: The board recommends moving the mail service to the 2023 garage. This is the safest and highest security option. With the increase in online product purchases and the decline of the post financial situation, the problem is very likely to increase.

Impact: This renovation will be paerrtially paid for out of capital funds, and the annual reserve rate will need to be increased from the current $21 a quarter by:

Option 1: Mail center moved to 2023 Garage
High security tamper resistant box style (4-c)
Indoor light area (security camera future option)
Center door closes at night (any owner can get a door opener)
Wheel chair ramp
Seven parking spaces
Security can be upgraded in time (camera future option)
Amazon and/or UPS parcel station (future option)
$15,000 cost (increase dues rate by $1.97 month)

Option 2: Same as above / door open 24/7
$13,700 cost (increase dues rate by $1.54 month)

Option 3: Replace existing outdoor clusters
High security box style
Four parking spaces
$10,000 cost (increase dues rate by $0.88 month)

Option 4: Band-aid fix
Purchase one low security box style
Petition USPS for exemption for one cluster
$1,500 cost (increase dues rate by $0.00 month)

Option 5: Do nothing
(Not recommended)

Project C: Repair Garage Foundation

Overview: This initiative is to spend $8,000 to fix the garage foundation and exterior brickwork.

In the last 12 months, the foundation has been sinking rapidly and the building is taking in water which is rotting the wooden framing and will make for even more extensive repairs if not addressed.

Proposed: Foundation specialists are recommending that we install three peers to stabilize the foundation.

Once the foundation has stopped moving, the brickwork will be repaired on the north and west wall (pictured - click to enlarge).

I approve (does not affect dues)
I do not approve of this expenditure.

Project D: Repair Parameter Fence Near Exit Ally

Overview: This initiative is to patch the 45 foot fence at the exit to keep it from falling down before the shrubs can recover and grow back up to cover it (3-4 years). This work is to avoid full replacement which is estimated to be $2,500.

Proposal: This initiative is to spend $600 or less to repalce the rotted and termite damaged stringers and pickets and then paint the fence FocBlack to match the ajoining section.

I approve (does not affect dues)
I do not approve of this expenditure

Section 3: 2017 Budget / Dues Rate and Special Projects

The assessment amount needed to cover mandatory expenses for management accounting, audits, taxes, insurance, and the routine annual maintenance obligations guaranteed to every home owner by the Covenant and Restriction Declaration, plus the elected payment into the Reserves is $88.66 per month ($266 per quarter) a 3.8% increase over 2016. The increases over 2017 are across the board price escalations for the contractual obligation to homeowners and only includes the base services provided in 2015 and 2016.

I ratify the 2017 budget

$86.66 per month ($3.33 increaase vs 2016), $266 per quarter
~These are nondiscretionary contractual obligations to owners as per deed
~No new projects included in this number
~3.8% increase over 2016, driven by small increases by most suppliers
~A detailed breakdown of these expenses is located here .
I abstain

I approve the installation of a security gate at the rear exit
Will end drive through traffic
If gate fails, owner inconvenienced (must use front entry/exit), but no emergency condition created (unlike a failure of an entry gate)
Install a gate in 2017 - $11.40 per month in 2017
Install a gate in 2018 - $5.70 per month in 2017, 2018
Install a gate in 2019 - $2.85 per month in 2017, 2018, 2019
Not in the best interest of the community

Section 4: Safety Renovations Funded by TxDOT

Overview: The Association successfully petitioned the State of Texas for $27,000 to make safety changes to the exit onto Highway183.

Approved: The plan is to relocate the traffic spikes to the required 30 foot setback, to lower the screening wall to see oncoming traffic, to relocate the electrical services, and add high visibility signage/lights to manage community traffic.

Schedule: The work will be done in 2016-17, before road construction which has both tax and cost advantages.

Impact: Funded by TxDOT. No impact on monthly dues rate or the capital reserve. This is a self funded project.

Approved in 2016 - work in progress!

Section 5: Wanting Your Opinion

Should we form a 21st-century crime watch?

The idea here would be for the association to pay to have surveillance cameras in 8-10 homes to cover the community and make views assessable to all owners. We could also have a text warning set up so thaht any owner could alert others when there is a problem.

I will help
Not good for community

Should we have a summer BBQ and/or Christmas Party?

We've had summer BBQs and Christmas Parties in the past. Attendance at BBQ is between 20-30. The last Christmas party was around 20 - 25.

I will help
Not good for community

How is the bookkeeper company doing?

We have a bookkeeper who has done a wonderful job for the Association in general and operates at a fraction of the cost ($250/month) of prior management companies ($500-$1,500). They have a very limited function for owners - basically to help with any payment account issues.

We have received a few complaints and we want to track down the problem. If you have had any problems please tell us about it. It is important that we get feedback to our contractors.

Not great
No opinion

Section 6: Select Four Directors
Four director positions are available with the expiration of Randy Ranew, Robert Bauer, and Vivian Scott terms and the seat vacated by Chad Johnson. David Schneider (President) will complete the second year of his 2016-2017 term (see photo, right).
Order of candidates: Incumbents listed first, others listed in the order submitted.
Term: 2017 - 2018.
Incumbent: Randy
I elect
Pick 4 from these 5 candidates
Vice President 2009-2016
I'm running this year because I believe in our community and the stable path we are on. When I visit comparable communities, it is evident how much better managed our subdivision is than most.

We still face challenges and things that can be improved, and I want to be part of that continued growth. ~Randy Ranew

Incumbent: Robert
I elect
Pick 4 from these 5 candidates
Treasurer 2013-2016, President 2009-2012, Director 1988-1991
I'm running to work on major construction projects like the exit renovation and the street repairs, and to manage the landscaping. What I like about our community is that we are like a family in many ways - whether it's visiting those who are ill, lending a neighbor something, helping someone with a task, returning an escaped pet - we often have each others back. ~ Robert Bauer
I elect
Pick 4 from these 5 candidates
Committee Co-chair 2016
I have lived in the community for three years and I co-chaired the window group purchase program this year. I have met a lot of neighbors in this process and I'm impressed by the dedication and caring volunteers who tirelessly and selflessly invest themselves in this community for our collective benefit. It has motivated me, and I am stepping up to offer my hand in this continued success story. ~Jesse Mitchell
I elect
Pick 4 from these 5 candidates
I have lived in the community for 14 years, have become friends with my neighbors, and I want our neighborhood to continue to make positive change. I believe my business background, degree in accounting, and strong financial skills are a good fit for the board. I'd borrow the line "Let's make Beverly Oaks Great Again", but I feel our community is already pretty great. I will help to continue the positive path we are on. ~Joel Kern
I elect
Pick 4 from these 5 candidates

No candidate
statement submitted

Is the community making progress and on the right growth path?

For the most part
Not sure
Not so much

Share any community suggestions here.

Updated 03/18/17

After you submit your ballot, a confirmation window should appear. You will also get a confirmation e-mail with your vote selections.

Association Purpose
Community News
Financial Overview
Exterior Painting
Infrastructure Repairs
Architect Standards
Architect Compliance
Roofers, Handymen
Board of Directors
For New Owners
For Renters
Records Online
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Contact Us


text:
Sunday, May 5, 2013

Beyond 50 on Spring Break

Beyond 50 on Spring Break

Friday, May 3
 A Live & Online Broadcast

We will be back next Friday, so tune in to our live broadcasts with bestselling authors, celebrities, experts and visionary leaders from around the world.

*If you happen to miss any of our past interviews, you can hear them from our listings: archive 1  and archive 2.

Braco: The Miracle Gaze of God, Part 2
For Beyond 50's "Spirituality" talks, listen to an interview with Pamela Bloom.  You'll learn about Braco from Croatia.  He is world renowned for his remarkable, spiritual gift of being able to pass on illuminated states and healing energies to many by gazing at them.  Hundreds of thousands have experience the benefits.  At a gathering, he silently gazes at an audience for 5 - 8 minutes.  Bloom will elaborate about his ability that has been studied by scientists.  And, many have also experienced a healing just from hearing his voice.

    To Hear the Past Interview, Click on This:  Episode 435

   Best of Beyond 50 Radio

Every week, we'll be selecting our best interviews from 2004 to the present and feature them on our YouTube channel.  It's is an eclectic mix of compelling and educational conversations.

Here are some of the interviews you may like:

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Category: Employment

Actual Housewives Of Beverly Hills, Not Just Rich Loaded!

CareerExcessive Faculty students at this time are inundated with options on tips on how to put together themselves for college. Career Step is acknowledged by the ADHI (Affiliation for Healthcare Documentation Integrity) as an accredited training program, it’s accredited by the BBB , and it is registered as an academic institution in Utah beneath the Utah Postsecondary Proprietary School Act (Title thirteen, Chapter 34, Utah Code).

Dad and mom must accompany those who are ages 16 – 17. For college students which might be sixteen, the only career avenues available to them are business occupations and Culinary Arts, so it’s typically finest to attend till a youth is 17 to use so they will have more career training options.

If you need to know more about portfolio careers or get assist with creating and managing your own, get in touch with one of the group at CareerWorx We present professional career coaching providers to individuals face-to-face (in London, Guildford and Portsmouth) and by way of Skype, contact us for extra information.

For now, I am excited to be staying on with the Career Heart, again as both a blogger and a Career Fellow, and to be conserving you all up to date on my trials, tribulations, and awkward social interactions for yet another 12 months. All that gloomy stuff apart though, the enjoyment on the face of a pupil who has simply passed their take a look at does type of make up for it all…a bit!

Unfortunately, DPI doesn’t have the flexibility to help all 61 candidates that applied for the pilot; nevertheless, not being chosen as a pilot school will not be meant to discourage these colleges or others from planning, making ready, and implementing quality ACP services.… Read More

Career & The Metropolis

CareerMaking a career alternative as of late is getting tougher, and not all people will get a career in engineering and medicine; nor can many of us turn out to be the a part of the forms élite. One of these position is often confused with an EKG as a result of they’re names are carefully the same however they are a special type of tech performing a unique sort of check altogether. One career knowledgeable, Alison Doyle, estimates the common particular person modifications jobs ten to fifteen times (with a median of 12 job modifications) throughout his or her career. Renu Kishor ,works as Search Engine Optimization Analyst @ Beside her work she additionally has a eager curiosity in counselling students to take the appropriate stride in the direction of reaching their career targets. In fashionable days, feng shui are utilized in most instances be in luck in looking for love, concord in life, growing wealth, sustaining well being and on this case, assist paving methods towards profitable career. We assist your career development and development inside and outdoors the office with training, applications and tuition reimbursement.

This may be achieved in many ways equivalent to by writing an article for a metaphysical/New Age journal in print or on the internet; arrange a website or weblog and write a short biography about yourself and the services you provide; set up and run a workshop; use word-of-mouth, and of course, keep a optimistic focus and angle.

This effort will aid you to remain excited and energized about what you do. For those who’re on the lookout for particular insights in this space for your self, I like to recommend that you complete an DISC persona take a look at (either a full report or a mini report), after which use the access code on the Career Interest Explorer to identify and research completely different career choices that might fit you finest.

Some do not know what they need to do with their lives, so taking a career interest quiz provides direction for these students. I’m a business communications coach who teaches writing, speaking, and management abilities to adults in the midst of a career change. One other great side of career & technical schooling on the college prep aspect, is that you just get to see first hand what it’s like to work in that career area. Many due to the 70+ participants who joined Camilla Kornerup, Smilena Spasova, Jomar Reyes and the Career Evenings Crew for our last occasion earlier than the summer season break – The Good On-line Job Hunt. These providers include, however usually are not limited to: housing relocation, eviction prevention, housing search, landlord liaison actions, financial teaching, and housing counseling. If it had been that straightforward everyone would be doing it. If you do resolve on it as a career.

Easy tricks to follow contains putting a steel windchime over your kitchen stove, that are said to be able to activate your career in addition … Read More

My Career At IBM

CareerRemember to contact Career Companies at 277-3290 for assist in sprucing your professional materials! Earlier than the Premier League emerged, he had already been sent off 6 instances, bringing his career complete to 12. He holds the record for the quickest ever yellow card, at 3 seconds. Learning or improving on a ability during your break could lead on you to a brand new course in your career or an entire career change! The links beneath give you an overview of the construction and features inside Barclays, so you can find the very best fit in your career aspirations. I’ve accomplished one course through EvCC who makes use of Career Steps curriculum (they’ve partnered with them).

The pricing of this take a look at is anyplace from $20.00 – $ninety.00 with the latter being a more in-depth evaluation of your particular person results. At the outset let me make it clear that the career path of a financial advisor isn’t very easy.

And so long as they’re comfortable with the extent of economic insecurity that can typically come with career selections that don’t comply with a normal career path, these more venture-focused work patterns could also be extra appropriate for individuals of this personality kind.

He was chargeable for managing a subject test of the product involving 10,000 college students. Keep up with the latest trends in career exploration, training, and job searches by subscribing to our e-mail newsletter. All the time memorizes the previous accomplishments that may hold the morale excessive on the time of selecting career. I’ve included the link that can enhance you career or improve your job search.

For me the 2 key things listed here are that career selections are about id (who do you want to be?) and not just the job itself (what do you wish to do?) , and that asking folks how they make their choices isn’t at all times a reliable information for how they really do.… Read More

What Military Recruiters Don’t Inform You

CareerThese actresses are among the most popular from Seventies television whose magnificence and expertise had been showcased in such reveals as Charlie’s Angels and Dukes of Hazzard, among others as properly. That is only a sneak peek of the roles throughout the hospital that most people still today to not notice are career selections. In Ohio, where I dwell, I work for a Career & Technical College and have seen the advantages these faculties provide students looking to be taught a ability or trade. The world map is nice feng shui for these confused or without direction of their career path. News heart- That is principally where it is best to go to see news from within your career.

Career education might also refer to facilities or departments at colleges and universities that help college students plan their career paths. We will assist you to identify your career objectives and acquire the abilities, resources, contacts, and instruments essential to achieve them. I know we’re all in need of some good rest and celebration after the yr ends, but the summer time is a vital time to your career and work experience. You possibly can contact me at kristcha.deguerre@ with any questions or concerns regarding your MSW education or career as a social worker. My title is Bernie Stratford and I am the Director of Experiential Education inside Career Companies.

Career Edge’s paid internship applications will connect you with the right candidates through our low threat, price-efficient recruitment model. And with more than 250 global areas, WestRock gives a wide variety of career paths. McDonald’s career began in the Nineteen Forties, when she loved success as certainly one of that decade’s hottest pin-up models. You don’t know what you don’t know, however your career counselor does, so make sure that to tap into his or her interviewing wisdom. Career theories are emerging which can assist steering counsellors as they help their shoppers to address these problems with identity. The test results also show ideas for career occupations and appropriate majors or courses.

Loads of career advice also is available from education and coaching providers, however you have to be cautious of recruitment pitches, which can be deceptive. Phlebotomy is a good career choice as a result of there are so many several types of venues on the lookout for this type of ability, and due to this, you have got more choices to start or advance your career. Construct a strong understanding so if you end up ready to interview and check for a job, you aren’t upset.

Any such position is usually confused with an EKG as a result of they’re names are closely the same but they are a special sort of tech performing a special sort of take a look at altogether. One career professional, Alison Doyle, estimates the average person adjustments jobs ten to fifteen instances (with a median of 12 job modifications) during his or her career. Renu Kishor ,works as Search Engine Optimization Analyst @ … Read More

Accenture Career Alternatives

CareerIn Could 2009, I had resigned with my old job as a result of impending delivery of our daughter, with no plans of returning to work exterior the home. If you want to explore career fields, one nice choice is the Career Middle’s Professional in Residence Program, which brings professionals to campus so college students can meet with them and be taught what it is like to work in their subject. It can be crucial that college students choose a suitable stream in school 12 to ensure that they’re able to be part of the career of their alternative after they complete the twelfth grade.

This database is a instrument to attach Hokies with potential employers, educational or career opportunities, events, and other resources. Your portfolio career could possibly be made up of two or three totally different roles either doing the same varieties of labor or throughout three fully different fields for variety. A concentrate on vocation and which means in work will turn out to be extra central to career practitioners work in the future. In the event you pursue this career area, you will study to draw blood for lab work for patients in numerous healthcare settings. In economically uncertain instances, a portfolio career gives a way to generate multiple earnings streams with the potential for increased income whilst spreading the monetary risk. Career Cruising was sent a letter of intent to award a contract on October 12, 2015. She presently serves as Chief Artistic Director of and volunteers for the 1736 Family Crisis Heart.

You probably have a query or would like to share your expertise of having a portfolio career I’d love to listen to from you within the comments section beneath. For example, I was recently working with an alumna who wished to transition from a career in accounting to a career in actual property. I’ve also included a ‘pay for website where you possibly can take the quiz and let it discover the outcomes for you. Congratulate yourself on ending your first couple of weeks in your MSW graduate college career. They are partnered with Career Step, so the course is the exact same one that CS gives. She was fearful as nicely but she passed and located a career in Echocardiography with no downside.

While DPI cannot direct you one or one other, it might be greatest to proceed along with your current career development software program contract for one more year so you don’t derail any ACP implementation processes applied to date. If you can’t consider anybody in your personal circle, find a career or life coach who can encourage and motivate you. How effectively you do on an employer’s check is probably the most critical thing to getting hired. An individual who’s the Sensing sort will desire a career where they are often extra palms-on, and take care of exhausting information. In addition to these great assets, the Tufts Career Middle can be another useful tool in your career development. … Read More


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Sunday, October 17, 2010

In Britain, councils are tearing up cobbles or covering them with tarmac and concrete. Why? Because people trip up on them and then claim compensation from the council. Sixty-six councils admitted to the Telegraph newspaper that they had either permanently removed or resurfaced over their cobbles in the last five years.

For example, cobbles have been removed from part of Liverpool's UNESCO site. The stones were ripped out of William Brown Street - which is lined by St George's Hall, the Central Library, and the Walker Art gallery - and the holes have been filled with Tarmac.

The council said they had loosened and needed to be removed. It insisted that, once funding was found, the cobbles would be restored.Goodness knows when that might be.

Thirty-seven local authorities surveyed said they had received a total of 159 applications for compensation from people claiming to have fallen over on cobblestones or to have experienced some sort of accident caused by them.

While some of these claims have been thrown out, others have are still ongoing and several have resulted in payouts totalling more than £100,000, including one of £25,000 from Worcestershire County Council.

Here in Bigastro, the council is bucking that trend by lining the centre of Calle Purisima with cobbles as part of the refurbishment. Either side of the cobbles there are level pavements for people to walk on. The only time when the cobbles might cause a problem is when there is some kind of parade that needs to use the centre of the road when people will need to take care. Streets leading off from Purisima are entirely cobbled so people will have to take extra care on those.

In Britain it seems that nobody is responsible for their own actions any more. Any accident that people have is always someone else's fault and an occasion to sue. You can’t blame councils for trying to reduce the burden of these claims by taking decisions and actions to avoid them; I blame the people for not showing a bit of common sense.

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Beer Review
By Tim

Mai BockAfter many months I have returned to the shores of America and pulled from the shelves of my favorite specialty store a beer that rivals all those great ales I have been reviewing over the past few months. The beer is lager called Mai Bock brewed by the Sprecher Brewing Co. Inc. The corporate slogan is, "Dedicated Brewers producing fine European and Traditional Style Beer & Gourmet Sodas." If anybody knows, let alone tries, what a gourmet soda is please e-mail your favorite websight and tell us what it is.

Mai Bock, besides having a cool, mysterious name, is a seasonal lager aged over the winter months and sold during the springtime. MB ( NO, for all my friends, this does not mean Milwaukees Best) has the smooth sweet taste that is characteristic of an ale. It has only a mild bitter aftertaste but goes down smooth and tasty. It is a perfect spring brew - being a light sweet taste - almost like a springtime rain (hold me back I think I am going to break into song). The smell from the bottle is quite nasty so I advise that you pour the lager into an ice cold mug. The Sprecher websight says that the perfect drinking temperature is 50 degrees F, but if you pour it into a mug from the freezer you should be OK. The pour results in a thick tasty foam and a clear golden liquid.

MB is brewed according to the Bavarian Purity Law of 1516, with no additives or preservatives and is non-pasteurized (is it not great that a man who has been dead for a long time has his own websight - in French and English). As a result, the lager must be drunk within 90 days of the date marked on the bottle. (For best results.) The beer is brewed in Milwaukee, Wisconsin (by Laverne and Shirley) and is bottled in pints (one bonus point from me).

I rank this beer 4 BB & B's and recommend it for all spring occasions. It is smooth and tastey with very little aftertaste. The price is $7.00 a 4 pack of pint bottles at six percent alcohol. (Maybe on the border of reasonable) .

Ranking out of 5 BB&B's.

Suggest a beer for review!!


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Check out the Featured Blog Feeds.

Check out the Submission Guidelines.

Thursday, April 19, 2007

Annoying Blog Ads

In-text advertising has to be the most annoying form of marketing used in blogs. It is even worst than paid posts. I can ignore paid posts but sometimes the in-text ad links look like real links. Sometimes when I move my cursor over a page to check something the ad link is triggered and this annoying pop-up obscures what I want to see.

There is another problem with these ads. Quite often they are unrelated to what is being blogged about. Have a look at this screenshot:

According to the ad you can buy 'your blog' on eBay. The ad looks silly and the whole advertising aspect of the blog loses credibility.

If people want to 'monetize' their blogs they are better off producing great content and finding a sponsor.


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Tag Archive for indifference

Thirteen fallen cyclists in the City of Angels, and no one even seems to notice — or care

Ghost bike for Andy Garcia, from MidnightRidazz.com

Ghost bike for Andy Garcia, from MidnightRidazz.com

That’s the answer to the question the LA Times didn’t ask.

In an opinion piece that went online Thursday as part of the paper’s extensive coverage of bicycling issues in the City of Angels, Times writer Robert Greene notes that London is reeling over the deaths of six bike riders in the last two weeks. And 14 this year.

It’s a devastating total for a city that, like Los Angeles, has made great strides in accommodating cyclists in recent years, and has seen an accompanying jump in ridership.

Or maybe it’s the other way around, as an increasing number of riders have demanded better infrastructure.

Either way, the uproar is entirely justified, as Londoners are shocked by the carnage on their streets, and demand action. Even if some insist on blaming the victims, whether for wearing headphones or other imagined violations that had noting to do with the deaths.

Just one problem.

Los Angeles, with less than half the population of the British capital, has suffered just one less death this year.

Thirteen Angelenos have lost their lives on the city’s streets since the first of the year. All in traffic collisions.

And shockingly, nine of those 13 deaths have been hit-and-runs, as heartless drivers have fled the scene, leaving their victims to bleed out in the street.

Yet unlike London, there is no outrage on the streets of LA.

There are no protests. There are no die-ins. There are no calls in the press for urgent action to keep our two-wheeled citizens safe as they ride, whether for transportation or recreation.

In fact, as far as I can tell, no one in the press has even noticed.

It’s just accepted as the cost of sharing our streets. Maybe there’s brief outpouring of shock and grief in some cases, near total silence in others. But in the long run, as the late Phil Ochs sang, it doesn’t seem to interest anyone outside of a small circle of friends.

And no one in the media or government ever does the math to come up with the horrifying total.

Some might say it’s only 12, as one victim — Markeis Vonreece Parish — was walking his bike when he was run down by a cowardly killer in a speeding Mercedes who didn’t even slow down after blasting through another human being.

Technically, Parish was a pedestrian when he was hit. But the fact that he was holding his bike as he walked with friends implied he’d ridden it there, and would likely get back on it to return home.

And that makes him one of us.

Then again, I don’t see where 12 victims is any less tragic than 13. Especially when the city saw just five fallen cyclists in each of the last two years.

As if that isn’t five too many.

Even as the press reports on the deaths in London, the loss of lives on our own streets is unnoticed or ignored.

There’s no demand for action from our advocacy groups as the death toll mounts; no mass protests at city hall.

And no reaction at all from city hall. No calls from the mayor to halt the bloodshed, no action from the city council to help keep bike riders alive, no demands, unlike other cities, for an end to traffic deaths, let alone those of more vulnerable cyclists and pedestrians.

In fact, in this bloody year of 2013, with nearly three times the bicycling deaths of recent years — and still six weeks left to go — supposedly bike-friendly councilmembers like Tom LaBonge and Paul Koretz have gone on record as opposing bike lanes on Lankershim and Westwood. And had the mayor’s support in gutting the green lanes on Spring Street.

When we need a hand up, we get a knife in the back.

But what’s a few more dead cyclists in the grand scheme of things, if that means drivers — and Hollywood — can continue to maintain their hegemony on our streets?

Greene’s piece isn’t bad.

He suggests the need for protected bike lanes, though noting that we’re unlikely to get them everywhere they’re needed. And he calls for greater enforcement against law-breaking drivers, even though he can’t resist the false equivalency of headphone-wearing bike riders.

But where is the outrage over the blood that’s being spilled on our own streets, as too many Angelenos lose their lives on the hoods and bumpers of cars? And the angels that watch over this city silently scream at the indifference we show to the deaths of our brothers and sisters.

It’s just accepted as the cost of transportation, the desperately high price we pay for getting from here to there.

And that may just be the greatest tragedy of all.

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Winston Lives!

categories: Cocktail Hour

             I cried at the end. Really.

            Not just for Winston who, at 95, had led a relatively full life as human lives go. But for myself and the end of what was a three decade-long reading odyssey.

            When I finished I couldn’t immediately peg the year that I read the first volume of William Manchester’s The Last Lion (did they really use that same title for a biography of Teddy Roosevelt? Jesus.), but I knew my father was alive, remembered reading it in his living room and shouting funny quotes over to him. It was a bonding thing for us, me and my Dad, right up there with watching Doug Flutie throw his Hail Mary. I was in my twenties, I know that, dogged by my own black dog of depression, and I tried to put some of the lessons of Churchill’s life to use in my own. (I couldn’t go more than a week without saying “A change is as good as a rest.”)

                I loved that book, subtitled “Visions of Glory,” (I just looked it up and it was published in 1983) and I loved the second one too, “Alone,” (88) which covered the 1930s, the years when Churchill was a lone voice in the wilderness warning against appeasement. I particularly loved the preambles, which in condensed form told the stories of Churchill’s wit, his daily habits, and his truly finest hour. They were thrilling reads.

            And then there was the story behind the story. The second volume ended in 1939, on the cusp of World War II, and if you were like me you couldn’t wait for the third, which promised to be the most exciting. The second book came out in 1988 and the wait for the next extended twenty five years.

William Manchester

            What happened in between was a literary tragedy. Manchester, writing the third volume, suffered two strokes and couldn’t finish. As Dexter Filkins wrote in the New York Times in 2001:

”Language for me came as easily as breathing for 50 years, and I can’t do it anymore,” he (Manchester) said, seated on the couch in his den. ”The feeling is indescribable.”

Once able to write and work for days on end without sleep, Mr. Manchester says he now needs a full day to compose a letter to a friend. The author of 18 books, including ”The Death of a President” and ”American Caesar,” Mr. Manchester now struggles to follow the plots of the television dramas he has begun, for the first time in his life, to watch.

             And then in 2003, not long before he died, Manchester asked a friend, the journalist Paul Reid to finish the third book. Reid had never written a book before and he had only about 100 useable pages of Manchester’s. But he set out, determined, and completed the book after eight years.

            What did I think of it?

            I thought it was great. I thought it captured the spirit of Manchester and Churchill. I thought it laid out the facts in an organized and readable fashion but that the main thing it did was never let the psychology of the man get too far out of sight. Because that is why we are reading him. We want to spend time with that brilliant energetic mess known as Winston Churchill. We want a little of his energy and creativity to rub off on us mortals.

            Richard Aldous, who reviewed the book for the New York Times Book review, agrees to a certain point, writing of Reid:

“His palpable enthusiasm at thinking about Churchill demonstrates once again, were it needed, the grip this iconic figure can still exercise on the imagination. “

But after that Aldous starts picking nits:

“Such Anglo-American meetings provide the finest moments in “Defender of the Realm.” About British history and politics, however, Reid is on less sure ground. Some mistakes count for little, but it matters that Stanley Baldwin, not Neville Chamberlain, was the prime minister who appointed Anthony Eden as foreign secretary in 1935, and that the Labour cabinet minister, Aneurin Bevan, was never the “administrator” of the National Health Service. Reid offers an explanation for why Churchill loathed left-wing intellectuals educated at what is here called Winchester University — actually Winchester College, and no university: rather, it’s an elite private boarding school rivaling Eton and roughly similar to Groton in the United States. As these and other solecisms and errors pile up, the reader is left with the uneasy sense of an author whose command of British politics and society is only skin deep.”

And ends:

“Admirers of William Manchester may buy this book because it reminds them of earlier times spent in his company. Yet it is difficult not to conclude that his legacy and reputation would have been better served by leaving him standing alongside Churchill in May 1940, ready and poised for the approach of that ‘finest hour.’”

I disagree with Mr. Aldous. Quite strongly in fact.

Having just spent three pleasurable weeks in Churchill’s (and Reid’s) company, I would argue that what Reid has done is close to miraculous, turning a thousand page plus book where you already know the ending into a page turner.

The criticism of Mr. Aldous seem to me to be small, if not petty  And in writing about Churchill one had better watch out for being small, since it was largeness, magnanimity, which defined the man.

Paul Reid understands that and what he has accomplished is very large indeed.

Paul Reid

  1. Bill writes:

    Can’t wait to put aside a few decades and dig in! But it does sound great…

  2. Dave writes:

    Nice! That’s a kind of stealing which WS would have approved of.

  3. Mary Collins writes:

    I love this, thank you. Have you read Rebecca Hunt’s gorgeous, short, British novel, Mr Chartwell, about Winston and his black dog of depression, in which the dog is actually cast as the central character? Poignant, and had me re-thinking my own take on the black dog. Thanks again for reminding me of how much there will always be to love about this man. I am English and several years ago was visiting his home in Kent and sat on the bench by his goldfish pond where he apparently went to contemplate. I spotted an unusual small green stone poking out of the dirt in a rose bed beside the bench and slyly pocketed it. It sits here on my writing desk.


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Topics: Sin

Somewhere I heard that in God's eyes it isn't enough for us to be sorry for our sins. Is this true?

You're right: It isn't enough for us simply to be sorry because we've done wrong. Judas was very sorry because he betrayed Jesus; the Bible says he "was seized with remorse" (Matthew 27:3). But it wasn't enough, and in spite of his remorse, Jesus said Judas was "doomed to destruction" (John 17:12). He ended up committing suicide.

You see, something needs to be added to our sorrow for our sins and that is repentance. To repent means to turn from something or to change our attitude about it and when we truly repent of our sins, we turn from them (with God's help) and change our attitude toward them. Jesus' first recorded sermon begins with these words: "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is near" (Matthew 4:17).

But something else needs to be added to our repentance and that is faith in Jesus Christ and what He did for us. Jesus was without sin, but on the cross all our sins were placed on Him, and He took the judgment we deserved. He did for us what we could never do for ourselves, and because of Him we can be forgiven.

The most important decision you'll ever make is what you will do with Jesus. Will you ignore Him or will you turn from your sins and trust Him alone for your salvation? God loves you; He loves you so much that He sent His only Son into the world to die for you. By faith turn your life over to Him today.


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Friday, 11 May 2012

Catch up- Holiday Monday

Holiday Monday was wet so we took the kids to the Sea Life Centre down at Lomond Shores. They loved it and even the little one was fascinated by the sea creatures. Lomond Shores has a shopping centre which has just opened an antique shop. I saw a few nice things- even the kiddos liked looking round it! Result!

  1. My little one loves going to the aquarium - we usually have to do the rounds twice :-)

    I really like that picnic set! x

  2. Love that top photograph, really beautiful xx

  3. Such cute pictures. I love that picnic set. Xx

It is always amazing to know you read and comment - so thank you very much.


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Bathmats & Pillows

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Measures 28" x 15" and weighs 1.3 lbs

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[Bioclusters] Nomenclature (was Re: Call for information.)

Ivo Grosse bioclusters@bioinformatics.org
Wed, 17 Apr 2002 10:58:28 -0400

Hi all,

Joe Landman <joe.landman@mscsoftware.com> wrote on Wed, 17 Apr 2002:

> does not depend upon the values used/computed in the Nth chunk, you have
> the opportunity to pursue a high throughput computing implementation.
> BLAST as it turns out, is nicely suited for this, as are some other
> codes.  These calculations are still of the high performance variety,
> but you attempt to maximize throughput, and not speedup of an individual

Yes, thanks to make that clear.  Hence, my question about recent Blast
benchmarks on P3s and P4s and Athlon-MPs meant: does anyone have those
3 numbers (or sets of numbers) for SINGLE nodes?


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Faculty Bio

Christopher Raymond

Assistant Professor of Philosophy

Christopher Raymond received his A.B. in Philosophy from Brown University and his Ph.D. in Philosophy from The University of Texas at Austin through the Joint Classics-Philosophy Graduate Program in Ancient Philosophy. His research focuses primarily on Plato, Aristotle, and their predecessors. He also has broad interests in 19th-century European philosophy, ethics, aesthetics, and ancient Greek literature. His publications include essays on Plato’s Hippias Major and Nietzsche’s theory of tragedy.


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Tuesday, July 26, 2016

by BIS Correspondent

MUMBAI, JUL 26, 2016: In a bid to help 60 poverty stricken villages in Maharashtra, the Bosco Gramin Vikas Kendra (BGVK) in Aurangabad alongside STULZ CHSPL India Pvt. Ltd. have launched a 'Livelihood Project' to educate and equip the rural marginalised through training, exposure and implementation availing the various existent government schemes.

Livelihoods in the rural districts of Aurangabad, Jalna, Parbhani in Maharashtra are harshly affected by various socio-economic factors such as the scarcity of water, inadequate skilling, very little agricultural research, financial insecurity and a host of other issues that need immediate attention.

The BGVK under the aegis of Mumbai-based Don Bosco Development Society has committed to reach out to 60 villages in this region. 20 villages each in Aurangabad, Jalna and Parbhani have been identified as communities that require sustainable solutions to their varied issues.

Initially supported by the BMZ, Federal Ministry (Germany) for four years, this 'Livelihood Project' seeks to - through a 11-month period - address issues related to youth, women and farmers.

The primary focus is providing youth with vocational skilling, imparting livelihood skills training to farmers, agricultural extension specifically aimed at understanding and implementing better scientific farm practices with regard to soil and crops and empowerment of women through formation of Self Help Groups (SHGs) and bank linkages.

"We have to envisage sustainable development and permanent solutions to the people's problems," Father Rolvin D'Mello, the Executive Director of Don Bosco Development Society, said.

BGVK intends to mobilise, organise and educate individuals and communities to access their entitled rights through this renewable endeavour, offering hope to the voiceless.

Kalyan Chape, the Sarpanch of Shahapur, Aurangabad and Sakhubai Kharat, SHG Women Jikhthan, Aurangabad expressed their gratitude to all concerned for implementing the development initiative.

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Friday, July 8, 2011

Chatterbox Pub Bloody Mary

In February of last year, we decided to stumble into Chatterbox Pub over in the Corcoran neighborhood of Minneapolis for a cold dreary late Saturday afternoon lunch.  We eschewed the board games and classic Atari play for some burgers and a towering good Bloody Mary at the bar with an antipasto-plate-on-a-stick shoved in it.  Given their BMs are 1/2 off from 2 - 5pm every day, it was a wise choice on our part, I would say.

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Thursday, July 27, 2017

How to Make an Accordion Style Book with Gypsy Soul Laser Cuts by Barbara Rankin

Hi everyone!  Barbara here today to show you a fast and easy way to turn these engraved book covers from Gypsy Soul Laser Cuts into a fabulous little mini album. i used Decoart Media Fluid Acrylic products to transform these covers.  While I have a variety of ideas for making the book pages, I have chosen the simplest way, which is to make an accordion style book. I have chosen Graphic 45's A Ladies' Diary paper collection, but you can use whatever papers you like or have on hand.

Book Cover Front
Book Cover Back

INSTRUCTIONS FOR ACCORDION BOOK (see video for full tutorial)

The book covers measure 2-7/8" x 4-1/2".

Cut two pieces of cream paper to 5-7/8" x 12".

Score horizontally along 12" bottom edge at 1-1/2".  This will form pockets to hold tags and ephemera.

Score vertically at 2-3/4, 5-1/2", 8-1/4", and 11".

Adhere the two lengths of paper together along the 1" flap to make one long piece of paper.  Fold bottom edge up to form pockets, and accordion fold the length of paper at each scored line.  Cut remaining 1" flap off.

Adhere the front and back pages to the inside book covers. Decorate pages as desired.

Here are some photos of the completed, decorated book.

Supplies Used:
GSL Book Cover Deco Engraved (coming soon)
GSL Miniature Bookplates Shape Set
GSL Miniatures Shape Set - Ladies Choice
GSL Vintage Ladies Silhouettes Set
DecoArt Media Fluid Acrylics
  Translucent White (optional)
  Titan Buff
  Primary Magenta
  Primary Yellow
  Interference Gold
  Burnt Umber Antiquing Cream
DecoArte White Crackle Past
DecoArt Metallic Lustre
  Gold Rush
  Cosmic Blue
  Polished Coral
  Black Shimmer
Derivan Liquid Pencil (for shading)
Assorted Paint Brushes
12"x12" cream card stock
Graphic 45 A Ladies' Diary paper collection
Tags, Scallop Combo(Sizzix Original)
Brick/Stone mini stencil (Tim Holtz)
Martha Stewart Deco Fan punch
Assorted embellishments

I hope you like my project today and are inspired to make one of these sweet accordion books using your favorite papers.

As always, thanks for stopping by, and have a wonderful and creative day!

Friday, July 21, 2017

Some Acrylic Pouring Fun with ColourArte Vivid Ultra Metallics

Hi everyone!  Today, I want to share my first acrylic pour using ColourArte Vivid Ultra Metallics.  If you've been here before, you know how I like to experiment, and so this video will do just that.  I decided to try playing with the pour to see what may or may not work.  I hope you will join me for this "adventure".

Supplies Used:
ColourArte Vivid Ultra Metallics
  Bolivian Blue
  African Jade
  Pink Azalea
  Solar Gold
Americana Lamp Black acrylic paint
8"x8" canvas
Flood Floetrol
3-in-1 All Temp Silicone
Silicone brush (Prima)
Aluminum foil roasting pan (Dollar Store)
Push Pins

I hope you enjoyed my project today.  I would love to hear what you think, and if you have any questions, please leave me a comment below.  I will check in and try to answer them.

Thanks for stopping by, and have a super day!

Thursday, July 13, 2017

Mixed Media Chipboard Tag with Gypsy Soul Laser Cuts

Hi everyone!  Today I have a cool mixed media super-sized tag for you.  Ever since I started playing around with mixed media, I have been having so much fun from experimenting and learning all sorts of things.  I hope you enjoy watching my transformation process video here, too.

Supplies Used:

GSL Chipboard Decorative Tags X Large
GSL Layered Frame Aria
GSL Herald Medallions (coming soon)
Acrylic Paints
  FolkArt Home Décor Chalk Vintage Mustard
  FolkArt Home Décor Chalk Cascade
  Craftsmart Chalky Burnt Orange
DecoArt One Step Crackle Medium
Finnabair Gold Crackle Texture Paste
Stampendous (Dreamweaver) Optic Checkerboard stencil
Carabelle Art Stamps - Mixed Media Strips
Graphic 45 Vintage Hollywood paper collection (image)
Mister bottle
Ink Pads
  Ranger Archival Black
  Distress Oxide Broken China
  Distress Oxide Fossilized Amber
  Distress Ink Black Soot
Ranger blending tool
Art-C Gold Metallic Paste
Assorted brushes
Assorted embellishments (ribbon, lace, flowers, jewelry, etc.)

I hope you enjoyed my project today. Be sure to check out all the great laser cut chipboard at Gypsy Soul Laser Cuts.

Thanks so much for stopping by, and have a super crafty day!

Sunday, July 2, 2017

Art Journal Video Tutorial: Good for the Soul with ColourArte

Hi everyone!  I just wanted to share another art journaling video tutorial with you that I made for the ColourArte Video Creators team.

ColourArte Supplies Used:

Primary Elements
  Orange Peel
Twinkling H20s
  Beachhouse Blue
  African Jade
  Burnt Umber
  Raspberry Wine
  Ancient Coin
  Sweet Alfalfa
  Snap Dragon
The Solution Acrylic Wash Medium

Other Supplies Used:

Dylusion 8"x5" art journal
Paper Artsy HP1507EZ stamp set
TCW 554s Mini Butterfly Collage Stencil
TCW 490s Mini Tattered Lace Stencil
Kaisercraft Crackle Stamp
Montana White Acrylic Paint Pen
Uniball Vision Elite 0.8mm pen
Tim Holtz Distress Oxide Walnut Stain reinker
Makeup sponge
Ranger Blending tool
Liquitex White Gesso
Dynasty #6 round paint brush
Assorted paint brushes
Mini Mister
1" masking tape

I hope you enjoyed todays art journal project.  And remember, art journals are really fun because you don't have to be perfect. It is for you and your enjoyment, and allows you to be free to try products and experiment without feeling like it has to be perfect. This is a good place to come, sometimes.  So, I hope you will give art journaling a try!

Thanks so much for stopping by, and have a super crafty day!

Friday, June 23, 2017

#StudioABSeeSurf Video Hop - "Beautiful Seahorses" Mixed Media Canvas

Hi everyone.  So glad you stopped by today so I could tell you about another fun video hop from some of the gals over at Studio ABSee.  We often get together and make video tutorials to share with you, and we almost always have a giveaway from each channel.  So come on and join us for lots of fun ideas and inspiration, and a chance to win a prize.

Here is the link to my video in this hop.  When you get there, you can go to the description box below the video for all the links to each video in the hop.  Please leave a comment on each video for a chance to win, click on the like 👍button, and subscribe, if you don't already.

I hope you enjoy the hop, and thanks for stopping by.

Have a wonderful, crafty day!

Thursday, June 22, 2017

Cabana Row House with Gypsy Soul Laser Cuts

Hi everyone!  Today, I want to share a fun little Summer project using these Cabana Row Houses from Gypsy Soul Laser Cuts.  Not only would these cuties make great mixed media projects or table decorations and favors, but they would also make wonderful gift boxes since the bottom folds up, but does not have to be glued in place.  Hmmmm ... think of the possibilities.  I'm sure you can come up with even more ideas.

When you get the set, look for the tiny alphabet letters (A through E) on each piece to match up the house with its coordinating roof piece.  They are so simple to put together, just fold the house up and attach the roof.

House E

Cut one paper strip 2-3/8" x 8-1/2" and one 2-1/8" x 2-1/8" square.  Cut two triangles for the eaves.  I used the box itself to measure and trace the eaves onto back of paper.

Run paper through Xyron sticker maker and edge paper strips with Evergreen Bough distress ink and foam blending tool.

Adhere paper pieces to bottom section of house.

Place red liner tape along roof and side tabs, as shown.

Adhere a  half round window on each side of house under eaves.  Set aside.

Cut a piece of print paper cut to 2-3/4" x 4-3/4".  Run strip through Xyron sticker maker and edge paper with Vintage Photo distress ink.

Adhere paper to roof top.

Spread a thin layer of  light molding paste through stencil, let dry.

Lightly add Vintage Photo distress ink to paste with blending tool.

Now back to the house.  Remove red liner from taped sides.  Fold side tab in and attach to side of house.

Fold tabs in and close up bottom of house.  You can also tape this in place if you do not plan on using the house as a gift box.

Fold roof tabs in and attach roof.  Glue two small square windows from the Seaside Doors & Windows set to the sides of the house, as shown.

Cut bottom portion of smallest Vintage Ladies Silhouette.

Glue bottom portion that was cut off back onto silhouette, but higher up.  This will shorten the lady and make her size more appropriate for the size of the house.

Use a spatula to apply a thick coat of Heidi Swapp Hot Pink Metallic Texture Paste to vintage lady, disguising chipboard join and swiping lines in the paste to resemble folds of fabric in her dress.  Set aside to dry.

Paint both sides of the vintage bicycle with Vivid True Silver.  Let dry, then add Vintage Photo distress ink, which will give it a coppery look.  Don't cover all of the silver, though.

Spread light molding paste over hot air balloon and draw lines through paste, as shown.  Set aside to dry.

Paint balloon with Vivid Ultra Metallics, first with Lemongrass, then African Jade, then Pink Azalea, and lastly with Teal Zircon.  Let dry, then lighten the color with African Jade.

Cut a 5" piece of 20 gauge copper wire and adhere to back of balloon.  I used a wet glue and a piece of tape.  Let glue dry before handling.

Turn balloon over and repeat process for opposite side, i.e., add light molding paste, draw lines through it, and color with the Vivid Ultra Metallics.  This will cover where you have added the coper wire on the back.

Make a little twist in the copper wire, as shown.

Use a paper piercer or awl to make a tiny hole in the roof top and insert wire through it.  Add clear drying glue to hold in place.

Adhere vintage lady to left side of house.

Decorate house as you like.  I have added some flowers just below the half round window, and adhered the vintage lady to the left, and the vintage bicycle was added to the right with a foam dot to make it look like it was propped up against the house.

Here are a few views from different angles.

GSL Miniatures Shape Set - Guy Thing
Paper Studio Country Road 4.5" x 6.5" paper pad
ColourArte Vivid Ultra Metallics
  True Silver
  African  Jade
  Pink Azalea
  Teal Zircon
Evergreen Bough, Vintage Photo distress ink
Foam blending tool
Xyron 3"sticker maker
Golden Light Molding  Paste
Tim Holtz Stripes stencil
Heidi Swapp Hot  Pink Metallic Texture Paste
20g copper wire
Quick Grab Tacky Glue (Aleene's)
Miniature flowers (Paper Studio)

I hope you enjoyed my project today.  Be sure to check out the fabulous laser cut chipboard from Gypsy Soul for even more ideas to decorate these Cabana Row Houses.

Thanks for stopping by, and have a crafty day!

Monday, June 12, 2017

How to Decorate a Wooden Door Hanger

Hi everyone.  Today I wanted to share a really fun little project that can make either a great addition to your studio, or a really fabulous gift for just about anyone with a door.  Okay, I am just being goofy now, but these wooden door hangers are such fun to decorate and can be transformed into beautiful inspirational art pieces for you to see every time you enter your studio.  Also, imagine how you could decorate these to give to friends and family to suit their tastes.

You can visit my video tutorial here if you would like to see how I made mine.

To see more video tutorials like this, please click here to subscribe to my channel.

Of course, I used a variety of ColourArte products to complete my project, and I would encourage you to stop by the ColourArte website to check out the fabulous products offered.

Thanks for stopping by, and have a super wonderful day!


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Thursday, August 27, 2015

Those cool nights are signaling one of my favorite times of the year!!
I curled up for a few hours with my sketchbook, wool and needle & thread this past week.
This is what I came up with.

Kit and pattern for Sunflower will be available in my studio and on our website. September 1st.
It really works up quickly and is something you can leave out September thru November!

Happy stitching everyone xo

1 comment:

linda said...

Very nice; I like the different wool petals


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Sour Grapes Post Election 2012

Tuesday, August 11, 2009

Mississippi and Georgia information.....

The Itawamba Historical Society is a Mississippi non-profit organization dedicated to the preservation of Itawamba County, Mississippi's history and heritage. Be sure to visit the Itawamba Historical Society Online where you can discover your Itawamba County, Mississippi roots

Located on the Internet are some fascinating sites relating to history studies. One such site is the Internet Archive Movie Archive. This interesting site, a part of the massive Internet Archive, contains literally thousands of online movies. The visitor can find most anything in this collection including big bands of the 1940's, public service films from the 1940's and 1950's, old silent Hollywood movies, and television commericals from the 1950's to modern documentaries. Many of these movies are public domain movies and documentaries.

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Bathnote // Bathnote draws its inspiration from the design of toilet paper rolls. We can all appreciate the important role that toilet paper plays in shaping our daily lives, especially when you need one in an emergency and it is nowhere to be found. So just place a roll on the table, tear off a piece and jot down anything and everything that comes to mind, worry free.
Creative Director
Ming Lo
Humphrey Correia


text:
Back to site

Take Away! - Lizz Lunney

Image of Take Away! - Lizz Lunney

Lizz Lunney draws surrealist animals, household objects and items of food, all endowed with the sometimes questionable gift of consciousness, exploring various concepts of life and death in a humorous setting. Sometimes she draws humans. Take Away is a specially commissioned book for Blank Slate that collects all of Lizz’s favourite work from the last eight years, presented alongside lots and lots of brand new content. It’s designed with four sections in four different tasty spot colours for extra dazzle, to give you the best possible experience of Lizz Lunney’s world of existentially silly and serious situations!

Featuring two of her longest stories yet, starring Romantic Bison in an epic tale of love and misunderstandings, and Depressed Cat in a globe-trotting adventure into ennui. Plus lots of short strips, interludes and strange moments with other recurring characters. As if that isn't enough, unfold the cover and peek under the flaps and you'll find even more pert and punchy comic strip goodness. Take Away! is absolutely packed with comics!


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It’s week 26 of the Premiership this weekend, with Chelsea 7 points clear at the top of the League and facing Burnley it looks like their tenure is safe for one more week. After P.S.G. running them ragged and a fiasco with their fans, it will be interesting to see what Jose has to say about the vendetta everyone has on Chelsea. Clearly a fantastic manager that everyone loves to hate – Jose needs to set things right here and tone his bully boy tactics down, to set an example for his team and their fans. Soon, they will be bringing the game into disrepute, for the club points should be docked. One by one the players flirt with tribunals or scandals.

Another team that are a scandal right now are Manchester United, a Multi-Million pound team waited 70 minutes to come from behind to beat Preston North End (if you haven’t heard of them don’t be embarrassed). Many big names joined over the summer to make them a team to envy, although only on paper. Dismal display after display United have just got across the finish line enough to keep them at dizzying heights of third place. They have been graced by a bunch of underperforming teams surrounding the top four and have the fortuity to have played a lot of lower clubs already, still to face Spurs, Arsenal, Liverpool, Man City and Chelsea and only City look like a team out of form that could lose to United.

Travelling to Wales to visit Swansea will see Van Gaal’s men play a team that could rest on their laurels in January. Selling Bony and getting no one else in was almost a resignation to their position of mid table. Gary Monk still gets fight out of the team but is he getting money from the owners? A merry band of misfits Swansea can often rise to the occasion and scare some teams, although with a mixed bag of results recently this game will be all about giving the home fans some future memories. A dull draw looks the outcome here as statisticians count up the long balls.

One of Swansea’s last victories in the league was against Southampton who have seemed to have lost the rudder in their ship. They welcome Liverpool to St. Mary’s on Sunday, who they faced on the opening day, leaving Anfield, unluckily without a point. Lallana will probably be benched for his first trip home after playing in Europa league Thursday and Rodgers could be tempted to start Ballotelli alongside Sturridge to see if his recent arrogance in Europe can turn to confidence, so another line-up change up for the Northern Irishman. Southampton, playing very fast football may have run out of steam with a lot of players sidelined for a while now. If Liverpool keep up their counter-attacking form coupled with a fairly solid defense they could take another 3 points off the saints and bring them within a point of their tails. This game could be played very loose this weekend.

Another loose game in our future will be Sunderland v West Brom, Gus Poyet trying to reassure the fans everything is moving in the right direction and both teams looking for a vital three points to move adrift of the bottom three where Aston Villa have plunged to. The newcomers of the relegation zone have a new manager in Tim Sherwood who hopes to save them from Championship football after winning their first game against Premiership opposition in over 7 games.

Another team hoping for any point they can get is Newcastle who go away to Manchester City this week. City struggling with form in recent weeks will surely have all eyes on Barcelona who they face in the Champions league, which could give Newcastle an opportune moment to surprise them. City are the team most likely to catch Chelsea but are not too far away from being caught and dumped out of the top four themselves, albeit a tad unlikely. City will have Bony to call up and not a minute too soon as Aguero keeps struggling with fitness. Toure returns from the African cup of nations also – will he return with some form? The result should be cut and dry but this year we have learned to hedge our bets.

Newcastle old boy Alan Pardew aims to be the tricky opposition as he hosts Arsenal in Selhurst Park. The Eagles have had some inspired form of late, winning a couple under their new boss as the excitement grew –since then results have been slipping but the enthusiasm hasn’t. Palace have lost and drew some close games that could have been down to the bounce of the ball. Last weekend in the cup Liverpool left it late to overcome the goal that the reds gifted to Campbell, a goal that palace clung to for a long time.

Arsenal are capable of the style of play that would just over-awe most teams on a good day, that form has been missing and is starting to slowly creep back in as we saw against MIddlesborough. Wenger’s team has had one knock after another, always missing one element of the team each game, making it hard to judge this side. Reliant on Sanchez for so much all season and for a lot of the goals scored this year – just over a quarter of them, they will happily see this man bring back the pace to their game that leaves so many sides dizzy. Giroud finding his feet(and head) again will give Arsenal another option, with Ozil, Welbeck, Walcott and Rosicky all adding to the threat and the goal tally recently Palace have so much more to worry about. This trip across London could be a nervous encounter for the Red and White army at first until they get the first goal in – then the flood gates should open. A win could pop Arsenal into third.

A return to form is on the cards for Arsenal and Liverpool if the past few weeks are anything to go by, within the next few weeks, United should ease away and show up Van Gaal for what he is and the rest of the top six should be more familiar.

Enjoy the games

21 Feb 10:00 Aston Villa Aston Villa v Stoke Stoke
21 Feb 10:00 Chelsea Chelsea v Burnley Burnley
21 Feb 10:00 Crystal Palace Crystal Palace v Arsenal Arsenal
21 Feb 10:00 Hull Hull v QPR QPR
21 Feb 10:00 Sunderland Sunderland v West Brom West Brom
21 Feb 10:00 Swansea Swansea v Man Utd Man Utd
21 Feb 12:30 Man City Man City v Newcastle Newcastle
22 Feb 7:00 Spurs Spurs v West Ham West Ham
22 Feb 9:05 Everton Everton v Leicester Leicester
22 Feb 11:15 Southampton Southampton v Liverpool Liverpool


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