Inflammatory bowel disease—an autoimmune disease that can have serious health consequences—may be caused or exacerbated by the regular consumption of the popular artificial sweetener Splenda, as it inactivates digestive enzymes and alters gut barrier function.
Previous research also found that sucralose can destroy up to 50 percent of your beneficial gut flora, and increases pH level in your intestines.
Many consumers may suffer ill effects from artificial sweeteners such as Splenda without realizing their problems are related to their consumption of artificially sweetened foods and beverages. If you experience any of the signs and symptoms listed, you'd be well advised to halt your use of sucralose products to see if symptoms are alleviated.
In early studies of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), it was shown to be most prevalent in countries such as the United Kingdom, the United States, and those in northern Europe.
However, in more recent studies, Canada has suddenly shot to the top of the list as the country with the highest incidence.
In 1981, the incidence of IBD in Alberta, Canada was only 44 per 100,000; less than half that of Olmsted County in Minnesota.
By the year 2000, the incidence in Alberta had skyrocketed to 283 per 100,000; now 63 percent higher than that in Olmsted County in the US.
Could Widespread Consumption of Splenda Explain Skyrocketing IBD Rates?
It's worth noting here that IBD is different from another condition that sounds very similar, namely irritable bowel syndrome, or IBS.
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is an autoimmune disease that can have very serious consequences, while IBS is a functional bowel disorder.
Many IBD patients wind up having extensive sections of their colon removed to address the problem when conventional therapies fail, and this can result in devastating and life-threatening complications.
A paper published in the Canadian Journal of Gastroenterology1 theorizes that the increase in this troublesome disease may be related to the impairment of digestive proteases, caused by the inhibition of gut bacteria by dietary chemicals, such as saccharin and sucralose. Saccharin fails to provide an explanation for the rise of IBD, as Canada adopted stringent standards for the use of saccharin in 1977 -- but this is not the case for sucralose (Splenda).
"If not saccharin, then what caused the remarkable increase of IBD in Canada? ... [S]ucralose may be the culprit ... In 1991, Canada was the first country to approve the use of sucralose, and it was allowed to be used as a tabletop sweetener in breakfast cereals, beverages, desserts, toppings, fillings, chewing gum, breath mints, fruit spreads, salad dressings, confectionary, bakery products, processed fruits and vegetables, alcoholic beverages, puddings and table syrups."
Reduces the amount of good bacteria in your intestines by 50 percent!
In the featured paper, the author states that sucralose has a potent inhibitory effect on your gut bacteria and inactivates digestive protease. It also alters gut barrier function. All in all, this may help explain the pronounced increase in IBD in Canada since its introduction into the food supply.
I have done a fair level of literature review on this as I invested several years with four other professionals to write the definitive work on Splenda, Sweet Deception, which was published by Putnam in 2006.
It's important to understand that despite its misleading slogan, Splenda (sucralose) is nothing like sugar. Rather it's a chlorinated artificial sweetener in line with aspartame and saccharin, and with detrimental health effects to match. In fact, while sucralose starts out as a sugar molecule, by the time the manufacturing process is completed, it more closely resembles DDT than sugar.
Unfortunately, many fail to connect the dots between their symptoms and their use of Splenda, or other artificial sweeteners. I recommend reading through Sucralose testimonials -- the first-hand accounts of my readers -- at least one of whom say that Splenda is "worse than chemical warfare" based on the adverse effects she suffered before she figured out the cause. Just as with aspartame, many Splenda users complain of general malaise or "feeling under the weather," along with a variety of neurological changes, such as foggy-headedness, lack of concentration, and "bad mood."
If you experience any of these symptoms and have just consumed Splenda, or consume it on a regular basis, I strongly recommend carefully avoiding any further exposure for a few days to a few weeks to see if the symptoms disappear. If they do, you may just have solved your own "health mystery." Likewise, if you have inflammatory bowel disease and consume any kind of Splenda product or other artificial sweetener, you'd be wise to avoid such items in order to improve your condition.
While more research will likely be needed to confirm this potential link, there's plenty of evidence showing that artificial sweeteners such as sucralose and aspartame can be dangerous to your health.
Ready to Kick the Artificial Sweetener Habit?
If you're using an artificial sweetener, it's probably because you're trying to avoid the calories while still craving that sweet taste. Sweet cravings are very common, and quite understandable when you realize that sugar is as addictive as some hard-core street drugs. Unfortunately, switching to artificial sweeteners will neither reduce these cravings nor increase your satiety. On the contrary, you're likely making matters worse.
Your body tends to crave sugary foods when it's lacking proper fuel. Sugar is very quick fuel and can give your body a boost when it's running low. However, using artificial sweeteners will not trick your body into thinking it has had its fill; rather it wants more sweets because it didn't get the energy boost that normally goes along with the sweet taste. In fact, this is part of why artificial sweeteners are associated with increased weight gain rather than weight loss. You're simply confusing your body.
The most powerful solution to help curb your cravings is to eat a wholesome diet of real food, and by "real food" I mean fresh, whole (preferably organic, as it's more nutrient-dense) foods that have been minimally processed, if at all. Once your body has the fuel it needs to keep going, it doesn't need to "remind" you, in the form of sugar cravings, that it needs an energy boost.
To learn what a "healthful diet" really is, I invite you to review my nutrition plan, which is divided into three steps: beginners, intermediary and advanced, so that you can progress at your own pace.
Take a high quality animal-based omega-3 fat supplement. If you're already taking a plant-based omega-3 such as flax, know that it will not work as your body needs the omega-3 fat DHA to have a serious impact on this disease, not the omega-3 ALA found in flax.
Optimize your vitamin D levels. Vitamin D appears to be nearly as effective as animal-based omega-3 fats.
Get plenty of beneficial bacteria (probiotics) in your diet, as this will help to heal your intestinal tract. You can do this by regularly consuming traditionally fermented foods, or taking a high quality probiotic supplement.


Adoption culture involves many interesting and unique aspects. Here are a few things you should know.
1) Adoptive Families have a different perspective on how families are formed. Many adoptive families have fought very hard to be a family. They have been scrutinized from every aspect, filled out stacks of paperwork, and sometimes waited years for their children to come home. Because of the intense struggle, most adoptive parents have a great appreciation of the gift of parenthood.
2) Adoptive families realize that blood is not the only thing that makes a family. Love makes the family. When they look at their children, they only see their children, not an adopted child. The adopted child is their "real child." There is a line in an anonymous adoption poem that says "you didn't grow under my heart but in it." Adopted families don't need genetics to make them a family.
3) Every adopted child has "their" special day. It is a day unique to them. It is like a family holiday just for that child. Our family calls it Gotcha Day. My friend's family calls it Adoption Day. Still another family I know calls it Family Day. So what is this special day? It is the day the adopted child came to their forever home.
Our family chooses to look at Gotcha day as the day that our son got a family he needed, and we got a child we longed for. We "got" each other. We became a forever family. On this day, our family recounts the joyful day that we met our son. I would be remiss if I did not mention that not every child has the joyful homecoming stories that our boys do. While we may shield the hard parts of their early days until they are older, our boys came to us as infants and their stories are not as heartbreaking as some. Some children hate their Gotcha Days because it brings up feelings of loss and painful memories. Families call it different things and observe it different ways, but it can be a beautiful reminder of how special the child is and how thankful the family is that that particular child is with their forever family.
4) When a family adopts a child whose nationality or ethnicity is different than their own the adoptive family will often retain parts of the child's ethnic heritage and incorporate it into family life. Making sure that the adopted child is familiar with aspects of their native culture is very important to the child understanding who they are and where they came from. Building relationships with other families who share the child's heritage or cooking meals from their first culture are great ways to connect the child to their ethnic heritage. Sometimes books, toys, and artwork can be found to reflect the child's heritage.
5) Sometimes adoptees retain various forms of communication with their biological families. Adoptions can be open, closed, or semi-open in communication. Communication can be as basic as an annual update letter, to as complex as interpersonal relationships depending on the family and situation of the biological family. Having this extended family can add a unique dynamic to the adoptive family.
6) If you associate with a family who has adopted, you may hear them use terms that may be very unfamiliar to you. It's true, we do have our own lingo and acronyms. While there are too many to list in this article, here are a few that you may hear.
Home Study – the process required before a child can be placed with a family for foster care or adoption. It includes references, medical reports, financial statements, background checks, social worker visits to the home, and a variety of required training. Upon completion of the aforementioned, a document is drafted stating approval for adoption.
Semi-Open Adoption – a non-identifying interaction between the child's biological family and the adoptive family, usually through a mediator such as the adoption agency/attorney.
Open Adoption –identifying information is shared between the biological parents and the adoptive parents and an amount of contact following placement is agreed upon by both parties.
Closed Adoption –there is no contact between the biological family and the adoptive family.
Match – when a potential birth family and a potential adoptive family are found to have suitable qualities and agree to pursue placement.
Profile Book – a mini biographical photo album of an adoptive family's likes, interests, family, and friends that is designed to introduce them to potential parents seeking to place their child for adoption. There are also online profiles.
Placement – when the adoptive child comes to live in the adoptive family's home.
Adoption culture is pretty amazing. Just like any culture, it can be as varied as the people in it. Each family has its own special dynamic, experience, and traditions. If you are curious about adoption culture, don't be afraid to ask because another neat thing about adoption culture is that most adoptive families love to talk about adoption.
© 2019 Adoption Living | Parenting, Family & Special Needs. All Rights Reserved.


text:
We played below standards, says Misbah post Windies Test drubbing
Sharjah [UAE], Nov.3 : Disappointed after failing to complete a Test series whitewash against West Indies, Pakistan skipper Misbah-ul-Haq has admitted that his side made `a lot of mistakes`, including displaying poor batting during their five-wicket defeat in the third and final match in Sharjah.
Chasing a target of 153 runs to win, Kraigg Brathwaite (60) and Shane Dowrich (60) stitched an unbeaten 87-run partnership to deny Pakistan historic 9-0 rout of West Indies.
The visitors were earlier whitewashed 3-0 by Pakistan in the previous T20I and ODI series respectively.
The 42-year-old admitted that his side performed below their standards and lost their momentum during the final match.
"It is always disappointing to lose a Test. Yes, the series is important but it's not good to lose. You don't want to lose momentum. We made a lot of mistakes. Credit to West Indies. They kept improving and we kept losing momentum. We were well below our standards, especially in the batting department. There was no discipline, there was bad shot selection," Misbah said in the post-match presentation. The Pakistan Test skipper also praised the Caribbean side's disciplined batting performance before issuing an apology to the fans and spectators for a poor show.
"Their batting discipline was really good. Sorry to all the fans, who believed in us and came out to support us," he said. Meanwhile, Brathwaite, who was declared `Man of the Match` for his unbeaten knock of 60 and 142, described the match as the best of his Test career, while insisting that he had just worked around his strengths and backed his abilities.
"It was a tough Test for us as well, Pakistan also played well. We had to work really hard, very happy to come out on top. I know my weak and strong areas. I just worked around my strengths and backed my ability. On a low pitch, I thought front foot will give you more runs than on the back foot. This has been the best batting Test match so far of my career. I hope to repeat this feat many times in my career. I've had a good start. The key is to maintain it. I don't want to get comfortable. I just want to continue working hard and score a lot of runs," Brathwaite said after West Indies' first away win against a side ranked above them since 2007 and first Test win for Jason Holder as captain.
Yasir was adjudged `Man of the Series` for picking a total of 21 wickets. Earlier, Holder bagged a five-wicket haul as the Caribbean side bundled out Pakistan for 208 in their second innings.
Pakistan posted 281 runs in their first innings. Despite the defeat, Pakistan clinched the Test series 2-1 against West Indies. Misbah-ul-Haq's side won the first two matches by 56 and 133 runs, respectively..
← Paytm appoints ex-Times Internet Executive Deepak Abbot as Senior VP Brathwaite, Dowrich help Windies deny Pak 9-0 rout →

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


text:
'use strict';

import Packet from './packet';
import DataQueueService from '../service/data-queue-service';

export class DataQueueReadRequest extends Packet {

  constructor(name, library, search, wait, peek, key) {
    super((!key) ? 48 : 54 + key.length);

    this.length = this.data.length;
    this.templateLength = 28;
    this.serviceId = DataQueueService.SERVICE.id;
    this.requestResponseId = DataQueueReadRequest.ID;

    this.name = name;
    this.library = library;

    this.data[40] = (!key) ? 0xF0 : 0xF1;
    if (search) {
      this.search = search;
    }
    this.wait = wait;

    if (peek) {
      this.peek = 0xF1;
    } else {
      this.peek = 0xF0;
    }

    if (key) {
      this.key = key;
    }

  }

  get name() {
    return this.data.slice(20, 30);
  }

  set name(val) {
    val.copy(this.data, 20, 0, 10);
  }

  get library() {
    return this.data.slice(30, 40);
  }

  set library(val) {
    val.copy(this.data, 30, 0, 10);
  }

  set search(val) {
    val.copy(this.data, 41, 0, 2);
  }

  get search() {
    return this.data.slice(41, 43);
  }

  set wait(val) {
    this.set32Bit(val, 43);
  }

  get wait() {
    return this.get32Bit(43);
  }

  set peek(val) {
    this.data[47] = val;
  }

  get peek() {
    return this.data[47];
  }

  get key() {
    return this.getField(DataQueueReadRequest.KEY);
  }

  set key(val) {
    this.set32Bit(val.length + 6, 48);
    this.set16Bit(DataQueueReadRequest.KEY, 52);
    val.copy(this.data, 54, 0, val.length);
  }

  static get KEY() {
    return 0x5002;
  }

  static get ID() {
    return 0x0002;
  }

}

export class DataQueueReadResponse extends Packet {

  constructor(dataOrSize) {

    if (!dataOrSize) {
      super(58);
    } else {
      super(dataOrSize);
    }

    if (!dataOrSize) {
      this.length = this.data.length;
      this.templateLength = 38;
      this.serviceId = DataQueueService.SERVICE.id;
      this.requestResponseId = DataQueueReadResponse.ID;
    }
  }

  get senderInfo() {
    return this.data.slice(22, 58);
  }

  set senderInfo(val) {
    val.copy(this.data, 22, 0, val.length);
  }

  set entry(val) {
    this.entryLength = val.length;
    let start = this.data.length;
    let b = new Buffer(this.data.length + 6 + this.entryLength);
    this.data.copy(b, 0, 0, b.length);
    this.data = b;
    this.length = this.data.length;
    this.set32Bit(val.length + 6, start);
    this.set16Bit(DataQueueReadResponse.ENTRY, start + 4);
    val.copy(this.data, start + 6, 0, val.length);
  }

  get entry() {
    return this.getField(DataQueueReadResponse.ENTRY);
  }

  set key(val) {
    this.keyLength = val.length;
    let start = this.data.length;
    let b = new Buffer(this.data.length + 6 + this.keyLength);
    this.data.copy(b, 0, 0, b.length);
    this.data = b;
    this.length = this.data.length;
    this.set32Bit(val.length + 6, start);
    this.set16Bit(DataQueueReadResponse.KEY, start + 4);
    val.copy(this.data, start + 6, 0, val.length);
  }

  get key() {
    return this.getField(DataQueueReadResponse.KEY);
  }

  static get ENTRY() {
    return 0x5002;
  }

  static get KEY() {
    return 0x5003;
  }

  static get ID() {
    return 0x8003;
  }

}

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaGithub


text:
March 30, 2017 News, Policy News
Science is foundational to the American Fisheries Society (AFS) and we strongly support scientific research, science application to management and policy, and the science education of our members and of society. The March for Science, set for April 22, in Washington, D.C., and in various locations around the world, is a non-political event that will stress the importance of science to humanity and the role science has to play in informing governmental policy. AFS supports its members expressing their right to speak out on behalf of science and exercise that right through joining the March for Science.
See the March for Science website.
Washington March meet-up information: Please meet up at the National Gallery Sculpture Garden Café (see link https://www.nga.gov/content/ngaweb/visit/getting-here.html) at 10:30 a.m. The closest Metro is Archives-Navy Memorial (on the Green and Yellow lines). Please note the restrictions on signs and other items that can be brought to the March – see the Washington March FAQ. Also, after the March, from about 2:00 p.m. onward, we are going to gather at Churchkey at 1337 14th St NW for an after-social. All are welcome! For more information, email Martha Wilson at [email protected] or call (202) 445-9514.


I began potty training my toddler today.
He is turning 3 in a few short months. According to all the books, I've waited a bit too long to start. I had my reasons for starting late -- his speech delay, the birth of my daughter, extenuating circumstances with my family. All of it led me to the conclusion that waiting would be better. For what it's worth, I don't regret it.
My lack of regret doesn't change the reality that today sucked. In fact, it was probably one of the hardest days I've had with my son since he was born. I'm sure that was due, in part, to the fact that I missed "the window" ... but let's not linger on things we can't change.
I actually don't want to spend my time with you today speaking about the challenges we had. If you have potty trained a little one before, or have let yourself think for a minute on what potty training might be like one day, you already know the challenges. Our day was just as disgusting as you've already surmised it would be. My carpet will NEVER be the same again.
But like I said, that's not why I'm here. I want to talk to you about how truly mesmerized I was by my child today. I want to tell you what it was like, for the first time in my life, to be utterly schooled by a two year old.
Today, my son woke up to his whole world being turned upside down. This little boy, who has never known life without a diaper, arose this morning to learn that the diapers are no more. Throughout his day, he encountered new and terrifying things.
The concept of "not peeing on the floor."
Disapproval for peeing on the floor.
Such a vast number of things he had never experienced before, and he had no time to mentally prepare. And yet, today my son conquered each of these things with courage and grace. He didn't insist, as I often do, on things remaining the way he's always known them.
He didn't become rigid and inflexible, as I do when new things are scary.
He didn't make excuses, like me when I don't think I can do something hard.
My brave, sweet, extraordinary child conquered the biggest obstacle he has ever faced. And you know what else? He did it with a positive attitude. Full of optimism, he took on his tiny failures throughout the day with grace -- recognizing that he would get it eventually. And when he finally figured it out, boy did he celebrate. That boy danced, high-fived, and shouted for joy like only a child can.
And in so doing, he humbled me.
I can't imagine how different my life would be if I tackled new and scary things like my son did today. I wonder how many doors would have opened for me if I had faced obstacles like he did -- with a spirit of bravery and optimism. I wonder how many times in my life I woke up and said, "I didn't ask for this today," and let good things pass me by. How many times did I throw in the towel because I was scared, intimidated, or convinced that I just couldn't do it?
Today, I decided to start living my life with the bravery that seems to come so naturally so my two year old. I decided that if my incredible little boy can conquer the scariest thing he has ever faced with a positive attitude, then I certainly can too.
I can overcome the hard things in my life.
I can smile when things are scary.
I can trust the people who love me, even when things don't make sense.
I can refuse to let failure stop me, and I can refuse to be identified by it.
I can celebrate hard when I succeed.
I'm so thankful for the lessons I learned from my two year old today. And what an extraordinary little boy he is.
Innobaby Suction Divided Plate - Perfect for Plate Tossers!


Designed by the renowned architect C.Y. Lee, Taipei 101 towers impressively over the Taipei Basin, its distinctive shape and features infused with eastern symbolism embodying the spirit of rising fortune and success. The cloud-capped skyscraper is also a popular backdrop for photos. Countless couples have framed their wedding photos with the public artworks in the building square. A large red aluminum sculpture of the word "LOVE," capturing the spirit of enduring passion, is a particular favorite. In 2013, Taipei 101 began allowing couples to take wedding photos on the top-floor observation deck.
Reached by a high-speed elevator ride, the deck commands a bird's-eye view of the greater Taipei area. The vantage casts the bustling streets of the city in miniature, creating an unusual backdrop for a romantic wedding shoot "at the height of love."
Take MRT Xinyi Line to Taipei 101/World Trade Center Station, then take Exit 4.
44 South Village is located at the site of a former housing community for soldiers in the military's 44th Arsenal and their families.
Most of the townhouse-style homes have been demolished, but some have been renovated and repurposed for cultural and educational functions, opening a window back to an earlier time.
One of the buildings is now the Xinyi Public Assembly Hall, which provides a space for events and exhibitions related to the old military dependents' village. Good Cho's, located in Building C, is a combined café, specialty-product store, and art venue.
On weekends, the village square hosts the Simple Market, featuring produce from small farms, handmade crafts, and second-hand items. The various elements create a relaxed, cultured ambiance that has made 44 South Village a popular spot for pre-wedding photo shoots.
Walk about 5 minutes from Taipei 101.
Designed by Japanese architect Toyo Ito, Eslite's visually arresting new store has an arc-shaped facade with terraced green balconies and views overlooking the historic buildings, plaza, and lotus pond of the Songshan Tobacco Factory complex.
The interior is divided into several cultural-creative venues. "Expo" brings working art studios to a mall environment, and "Tea with Books" fuses Taiwanese tea culture with a bookstore setting.
The mall also has an art exhibition and performance area, with a cinema and performance hall. Taiwan's first vinyl record shop, and world-champion bread maker Wu Pao-chun's Wu Pao Chun Bakery, are also located here. Ito's team raised the bar in terms of building acoustics, lighting, and interior design, creating a world of pleasant surprises where culture, design, and fashion are delightfully combined.
Walk from Taipei 101 to MRT Taipei City Hall Station and take the Bannan line.
Huashan 1914 Creative Park is an arts and culture venue located at the former site of the Taipei Winery. The historic buildings have a distinctive retro style, and frequently serve as backdrops for wedding photos.
Several art and design-themed stores and specialty restaurants have also set up shop here. Among them are 1914 Connection, Taiwan's first contemporary designer gift shop; Ayoi Taiwan Indigenous Specialty Boutique, presenting indigenous handicrafts; VVG Thinking, a LOHAS-themed store fusing a restaurant, art and culture exhibitions, and lifestyle products; and Chingye-Shinleyuan, a restaurant specializing in Taiwanese fare with an ambiance that manages to be nostalgic and modern at the same time.
The park's expansive grounds are also a magnet for city residents. Fairs and other art events are hosted here on weekends and holidays, presenting Taipei's creative vitality in vivid light.
Daan District stands apart from other Taipei neighborhoods with its mix of cultural and educational dimensions. In addition to several universities, the district is dotted with art cafés, independent bookstores, exotic restaurants, lifestyle stores, and art galleries.
Among them is Hui Liu, a teahouse fusing classical and modern elements with a menu emphasizing organic seasonal fruits and vegetables. The area is also home to Earth Tree, Taiwan's first exclusively fair trade store; and Caffè Libero, a community art café located in a renovated old building.
The stores here are also distinguished by a general embrace of a business philosophy that puts quality of living above profit. This spirit of slowing down to enjoy life is palpable as you stroll along the quiet streets and alleyways of Daan.
Downtown Taipei, north from Dongmen Market, south to National Taiwan University, east to Daan Forest Park, west to National Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall.
Take the MRT Xinyi Line from Taipei 101/World Trade Center Station to Dongmen Station. Take Exit 5.


Blockchain bloat is afflicting Ethereum with a user reporting a download taking more than a week to complete.
Ethereum's (ETH) blockchain is now larger than Bitcoin's at around 180 gigabytes, with experts warning further increases may spell disaster.
After one user reported downloading the backlog of transactions for "over a week" while syncing a node, cryptocurrency commentator and entrepreneur Tuur Demeester highlighted a source giving an overall figure of up to 180 GB.
Ethereum overtook Bitcoin sometime in February 2017, according to the source data, when both were around 130 GB.
Further Twitter commentators added that the problem of so-called 'Blockchain bloat' would be "compounded" by the fact that the relative free-for-all on Ethereum-linked wallets meant that many users had a considerable number of them.
A huge range of altcoins are based on the Ethereum blockchain, many of which continue to see frantic trading activity with the completion of various ICOs.
What the future holds for ETH itself meanwhile poses further issues.
Continued upward trajectory could see the biggest altcoin's blockchain hit one terabyte before 2018, making syncing a seriously unwieldy business.
ETH prices meanwhile hit new highs over the weekend, capping a 3000% increase since the start of the year which is doing the rounds across mainstream media.


text:
The Latest New Releases Include "Old" and "Mad Love"
10.21.21 |	Chris Cummins	| Tags: BBC, Ben Platt, Bobby Darin, Connie Britton, Criterion Collection, Cynthia Erivo, Dario Argento, DC, DC Universe, Elvis Presley, Franki Valli, Gael García Bernal, Gary Sinise, Gina Lollobrigida, Hallmark Channel, Joel Grey, John Malkovich, Kevin Pollak, Land Girls, Leslie Odom Jr., Little Rascals, M. Night Shyamalan, Maggie Q, Mark Wahlberg, Michael Keaton, Our Gang, Peter Lorre, Robert Patrick, Samuel L. Jackson, Sandra Dee, Smallville, Sonny Bono, Superman & Lois	| no comments
This week's new releases are a fantastic bunch! You'll find Blu-rays, DVDs, and 4K Ultra HD titles from every genre — including recent theatrical hits, TV show sets and classic films — that are making their most welcome physical media…
Poll: Who's Your Favorite Character from "A Few Good Men"?
07.06.20 |	Jon Morgereth	| Tags: 1990s Films, A Few Good Men, Demi Moore, Jack Nicholson, Kevin Bacon, Kevin Pollak, Kiefer Sutherland, MovieFanFare Mega Mondays, Rob Reiner, Tom Cruise	| no comments
This latest poll focuses on A Few Good Men, director Rob Reiner's powerful courtroom drama based on the play by Aaron Sorkin (who wrote the screenplay). Tom Cruise shines as cocky Navy lawyer Lt. Daniel Kaffee, assigned to defend two…


text:
Cunningham v. Credit Mgmt. L.P.
Subscribe to Cunningham v. Credit Mgmt. L.P.
Third Circuit Rules that TCPA Authorizes Consumers To Retract Consent to Cell Phone Calls
By Kevin Ranlett on September 9, 2013
Posted in Motions Practice
The spate of class actions under the Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA) isn't ending anytime soon. And the risks to businesses have just increased in the Third Circuit, thanks to that court's recent ruling that the TCPA permits consumers to retract consent to receiving calls on their cell phones placed by automatic telephone dialing systems.
The TCPA prohibits making any call to a cell phone "using any automatic telephone dialing system or an artificial or prerecorded voice" unless (among various exceptions) the call is made with the "prior express consent of the called party." 47 U.S.C. § 227(b)(1)(A)(iii). Courts have upheld various ways of demonstrating "express consent," including:
verbally, such as when the consumer orally provides a cell phone number as a contact number (Greene v. DirecTV, Inc., 2010 WL 4628734 (N.D. Ill. Nov. 8, 2010));
in writing, such as when a contract authorizes cell phone calls (Moore v. Firstsource Advantage, LLC, 2011 WL 4345703 (W.D.N.Y. Sept. 15, 2011)); and
through a third party, such as when a spouse authorizes cell phone calls (Gutierrez v. Barclays Bank Group, 2011 WL 579238 (S.D. Cal. Feb. 9, 2011)).
But once consumers have consented to receiving these calls, can they rescind their consent? The TCPA's text is silent on the subject. And although the FCC's 1992 TCPA Order indicates that consumers who provide their cell phone number can give "instructions" that they don't agree to receive autodialer calls, the order doesn't address whether the consumer can give those instructions long after initially providing the cell phone contact number.
By contrast, other privacy statutes—such as the CAN-SPAM Act, the Junk Fax Protection Act, and the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act—have express provisions allowing consumers to opt out of receiving communications at any time. A number of district courts have concluded that the lack of a corresponding express provision in the TCPA means that consumers don't have the statutory right to retract consent once it has been given. See, e.g., Osorio v. State Farm Bank, F.S.B., 2012 WL 1671780 (S.D. Fla. May 10, 2012); Cunningham v. Credit Mgmt., L.P. (pdf), 2010 WL 3791104 (N.D. Tex. Aug. 30, 2010); Starkey v. Firstsource Advantage, L.L.C. (pdf), 2010 WL 2541756 (W.D.N.Y. Mar. 11, 2010).
But in Gager v. Dell Financial Services, Inc. (pdf), the Third Circuit sided with courts that have taken the opposite view. See Adamcik v. Credit Control Servs., Inc., 832 F. Supp. 2d 744 (W.D. Tex. 2011); Gutierrez, supra.
The Third Circuit gave three reasons for its holding. In my view, each one is questionable.


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Safety of Testosterone Therapy & Clueless Primary Care Physicians
bostontestosterone	Men's Health, Uncategorized	andropause, anti-aging, boston testosterone reviews, doctors, testosterone replacement doctor, testosterone replacement therapy	Leave a comment
National Testosterone Replacement Therapy for Men
Boston, MA – Testosterone replacement therapy for hypogonadal men has been used for decades. However, there are still scores of primary care doctors spreading irresponsible misinformation regarding the safety of this treatment, particularly to elderly men who can benefit mightily from a balanced hormonal health.
A study was done with 255 men with an Average age of 60.6 ± 8.0 years, with testosterone levels between ≤ 3.5 ng/ml. They received parenteral (injectable) testosterone undecanoate.
After more than five years of monitored testosterone therapy, the study noted that a mere 3 out of 255 patients were diagnosed with prostate cancer. The study stated that "3/255 patients with prostate cancer does not suggest an increased risk of prostate cancer in elderly men on long-term testosterone treatment. Long-term treatment with testosterone undecanoate with monitoring according to the guidelines is acceptably safe."
Now, according to cancer.org, "About 1 man in 6 will be diagnosed with prostate cancer during his lifetime." They also stated, "Prostate cancer can be a serious disease, but most men diagnosed with prostate cancer do not die from it. In fact, more than 2.5 million men in the United States who have been diagnosed with prostate cancer at some point are still alive today."
In over 50 years of studies and research, there has never been a connection between testosterone levels in men and prostate cancer growth. Moreover, a study from Harvard Medical School in 2006 concluded, "there is not now, nor has there ever been a scientific basis for the belief that testosterone causes prostate cancer to grow."
Just more evidence that testosterone replacement therapy does not cause cancer or prostate cancer. We can't explain why leagues of completely clueless primary care doctors still spread baseless accusations that TRT is unsafe.
http://www.cancer.org/Cancer/ProstateCa … statistics
Boston Testosterone is a Testosterone Replacement, Wellness and Preventative Medicine Medical Center that treats and prevents the signs and symptoms associated with Andropause and hormone imbalances. With affiliates nationally, Boston Testosterone offers hormone replacement therapy, weight loss protocols, erectile dysfunction (ED), Sermorelin-GHRP2 therapy and neutraceutical injectable therapies for men and women. Their medical facilities offer physician examinations and treatment programs that incorporate the latest in medical science.
"The Greatest Health of Your Life" ℠
www.BostonTestosterone.com
www.facebook.com/BostonTestosterone
855.617.MEDS (6337)
617MEDS@gmail.com
See: Side-Effect Profile of Long-Term Treatment of Elderly Hypogonadal Men with Testosterone Undecanoate – Farid Saad, Ahmad Haider, Gheorghe Doros, Louis Gooren. Bayer Pharma AG, Berlin, Germany; Gulf Medical University School of Medicine, Ajman, United Arab Emirates; Private Practice, Bremerhaven, Germany; Public School of Health, Boston University, Boston, MA; VUMC Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands.
Libido, Testosterone and Nutrition
bostontestosterone	Men's Health, Uncategorized	boston testosterone, testosterone doctor, testosterone replacement doctor, testosterone replacement therapy	Leave a comment
Boston, Massachusetts – Dr Cecilia Tregear explains why she believes that sexual activity is a great tool for gauging health and what you can do to give your score a boost.
Forget Botox. If you want to look and feel young, then what you should really be doing is swinging from the chandeliers.
Regular sex in your youth, your middle years and beyond is the ultimate elixir of youth, says hormone and anti-ageing specialist Dr Cecilia Tregear.
World-renowned Dr Tregear, who is based at the Wimpole Skin Clinic in Harley Street, London, has worked with hundreds of couples over the course of her 25-year career.
'I began to notice a pattern,' she says. 'The couples who were having lots of regular sex almost always looked younger than those who weren't. They were also slimmer, fitter, healthier and happier.'
'Sexual activity, in my view, is an accurate thermometer for measuring health.'
But far too many of us aren't having great sex. Or much, if any, of it. Either we're too tired, have lost our libidos or have got stuck in a rut or boring routine which makes sex with our partner about as appealing as doing the laundry. We feel unattractive — and as a result, we aren't as attracted to our partner either.
A poor sex life can be caused by hormonal problems as a result of a thyroid condition, or the effects of the menopause/andropause (male menopause) which deplete sex hormones.
But lifestyle factors, such as eating poorly, smoking, drinking too much alcohol, stress and lack of exercise, can also have a massive impact on sexual health.
Dr Tregear realised the people who were having lots of sex in their relationships had one key factor in common: their diet. All of them were eating extremely nutritious food.
She explains: 'Good nutrition is essential for the healthy production of hormones which maintain the libido and allow for regular and fulfilling sexual activity."
She has devised the Between the Sheets diet, which promises to perk up your libido. Combined with regular exercise (and, if necessary, supplements containing natural hormones) it should ensure you not only have regular, great sex — just like you did in your youth — but look and feel younger too …
Step One: Feed Your Brain
According to Dr Tregear, the first step to boosting your love life is to feed your brain. 'The biggest sexual organ is the brain, which produces the chemicals and hormones that trigger feelings of love and attraction, arousal and orgasm,' she says. 'We need to make sure we're eating the right foods to ensure the production of these chemicals and hormones.'
First, it's important to have a diet that boosts the levels of the neurotransmitter dopamine, released by the brain. Dopamine is the feel-good chemical associated with the emotions of anticipation and desire. As such, it is vital to a healthy sex drive.
Boosting levels in the brain has been shown to be incredibly successful at treating flagging libidos, and there are currently dopamine drugs on trial. However, you won't need them if you eat well.
Dopamine-boosting food: To boost levels it's essential to eat lots of proteins, because these contain amino acids, which are converted into neurotransmitters in the brain.
Amino acids are found in red meat, oily fish, eggs, cottage cheese, beans, peas, milk, wheatgerm, beetroot and bananas.
The production of dopamine also relies on vitamins and minerals, so make sure you eat plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables — watermelon, which contains vitamins A, B6 and C, is a particularly good addition to the diet.
The following spices can also boost dopamine levels: basil, black pepper, cayenne pepper, chilli peppers, cumin, fennel, flax seeds, garlic, ginger, mustard seeds, rosemary, sesame seeds, tarragon and turmeric.
Drinking a small amount of alcohol can also boost dopamine, which is why a glass of wine can help to put you in the mood.
Step Two: Balance Your Hormones
Having a good balance of hormones is essential to a healthy sex life, which is why the menopause — when hormone levels drop — can cause havoc with your sex life. There are three hormones responsible for arousal and sexual desire: oestrogens, which are present in both men and women, testosterone, also in both men and women, and DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone), which is found in women only.
'A good balance of animal fat in meat and fish and good cholesterol, found in eggs for example, encourages the production of sex hormones, improving libido,' says Dr Tregear. 'It's vital to eat plenty of good quality protein, ideally a portion with every meal,'.
Oestrogens: Avoid excessive amounts of fibre (such as brown bread) which lower oestrogen by stopping its absorption. Having cereal and toast for breakfast is the worst thing you can do for your hormones. Scrambled egg with salmon is a much better option.
Avoid alcohol, too. Anything more than the odd glass of wine with dinner, once or twice a week, has a detrimental effect on hormones, impairing both oestrogen and testosterone production.
Research also shows that smoking reduces levels of oestrogen in the body.
Testosterone: Essential for sex drive in both men and women. The reason that oysters are an aphrodisiac is because they are high in zinc, which is necessary for the production of testosterone.
Other foods high in zinc include meat, eggs, seafood and tofu. Avoid coffee or other high-caffeine drinks. Caffeine de-activates testosterone, which will reduce your libido.
DHEA: This vital hormone is made in the adrenal glands and levels usually peak around the age of 25. Although the libido-promoting effects of DHEA are less well publicised than other hormones such as oestrogen, doctors are now reporting that increasing levels can have dramatic effect on libido.
To boost your levels of DHEA you need to increase the amount of 'good fats' in your diet by eating more oily fish, such as salmon and anchovies, and also green leafy vegetables such as spinach, rocket and watercress.
The adrenal glands, which produce hormones including DHEA, are also the part of the body that respond to stress.
Excess stress can cause the adrenals to produce stress hormones at the expense of sex hormones. Spices and salty food make the adrenal glands work more efficiently to produce more DHEA.
Step Three: Boost Your Energy
For good sex, you need stamina and energy. While a generally healthy diet will help you feel strong and healthy, it's important to eat food that will increase your levels of Human Growth Hormone (HGH). This hormone increases sexual desire and provides the stamina and energy needed for a sexual marathon. To increase production, eat organic protein from beef, fish, and chicken.
Root vegetables such as carrots and parsnips can also help, as can low-sugar fruits, such as blueberries.
Avoid pulses and cereals and refined sugars, which can cause your energy to peak and then slump.
Thyroid hormones help us to maintain energy. To work, the thyroid needs iodine, which is found in kelp, seaweed, oysters, clams and tuna.
Finally, vitamin B also plays a major role in energy production, as it helps convert carbohydrates into sugar to fuel the body's energy.Foods rich in this include avocados, duck, lamb, sweet potatoes and sunflower seeds.
While it can be tempting to get an energy boost by eating sugar and sweets, this is a mistake, because it will cause short-lived energy peaks followed by a longer dip in energy. And that's not what your partner will be looking for in the bedroom!
Originally Published by dailymail.co.uk


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– Medical Mistakes Now Third Leading Cause of Death in U.S., New Research Says
Medical Mistakes Now Third Leading Cause of Death in U.S., New Research Says
On Behalf of Power Rogers, LLP | May 4, 2016 | Medical Malpractice, Wrongful Death
After analyzing medical death rate data over an eight-year stretch, patient safety experts from Johns Hopkins have calculated that over 250,000 deaths are caused by medical error each year in the U.S. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) currently list respiratory disease – responsible for nearly 150,000 deaths each year – as the third leading cause of death in the U.S.
What is Medical Error?
The research team defines medical error as, "an unintended act (either of omission or commission) or one that does not achieve its intended outcome, the failure of a planned action to be completed as intended (an error of execution), the use of a wrong plan to achieve an aim (an error of planning), or a deviation from the process of care that may or may not cause harm to the patient." During their study, the team focused their efforts on identifying preventable lethal events.
Following the release of their findings, the researchers urged the CDC in an open letter to add medical errors to its annual list of the top causes of death in the U.S.
Why Medical Mistake Deaths are Underreported
According to Martin Makary, M.D., M.P.H, professor of surgery at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, the CDC doesn't include medical errors in their list of leading causes of death because there isn't a recognized standard method to collect that data. "The medical coding system was designed to maximize billing for physician services, not to collect national health statistics, as it is currently being used," he said.
Makary and the rest of the team at Johns Hopkins is advocating for updated criteria in order to properly account for all causes of death. Currently, the CDC uses an international form that uses the International Classification of Diseases (ICD) billing codes in order to keep track of causes of death.
According to the research team, the CDC creates its list by using death certificates filled out by coroners, funeral directors, medical examiners, and physicians. The cause of death is assigned an ICD code, and the experts from Johns Hopkins claim that those codes cannot properly account for inadequate skill, poor judgment, communication breakdowns, and diagnostic errors.
The CDC's chief of the mortality statistics branch Bob Anderson disputes the claims that their coding is the issue. According to him, the codes accurately capture complications from medical care, and that the CDC's approach is consistent with international guidelines. Changing how they collect data would create issues when comparing the U.S.'s death statistics to other countries'.
The researchers examined four studies from 2000 to 2008 that analyzed medical death rate data, including ones by the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services' Office of the Inspector General, and compared them to hospital admission rates from 2013. Based on the 35+ million hospital admissions from 2013, the researchers extrapolated that over 250,000 deaths were caused by medical error. According to them, that equals to roughly 9.5% of all deaths in the U.S. each year.
With those numbers, only heart disease – 611,105 reported deaths – and cancer – 584,881 reported deaths – rank higher on the CDC's list of leading causes of death in 2013.
"Top-ranked causes of death as reported by the CDC inform our country's research funding and public health priorities," says Makary. "Right now, cancer and heart disease get a ton of attention, but since medical errors don't appear on the list, the problem doesn't get the funding and attention it deserves."
Texas Medical Malpractice & Wrongful Death Attorney
If you or a loved one has been affected by medical malpractice, we encourage you to reach out to us. Our Chicago medical malpractice attorneys at Power Rogers have more than 100 years of cumulative experience and are ready to help you in your fight. Contact us through our online form, or call us at 312-500-1792.
How to Know if You Qualify for a Wrongful Death Lawsuit
Birth Injury vs. Birth Defect


Honors at Iowa established this award to recognize the particular efforts of an individual whose steadfast and wholehearted support for the University Honors Program looms especially large in the lives of honors educators and students at Iowa. For awardees, we are pleased to offer a monetary prize and personalized memento. The award will be presented during the Honors Recognition Ceremony held each April.
The Honors Professional Staff select a University of Iowa faculty or staff member to receive this award for their campus support based on efforts made to promote the mission of the University Honors Program.


The Meetings, Membership and Marketing Institute (#ESSAETripleM) is geared to bring new innovations, insights, experiences, opinions, and success stories. Come prepared to learn, as well as enjoy networking and fraternity with fellow executives and supplier partners.
Seize Your Competitive Advantage: While workforce disruptions and technological advances in the industries we represent are challenging us to innovate at a crushing pace, they also signal deeper market needs. And if we respond to the ask beneath the trends, we radically improve our market position. Join Tracy as she reveals the one value proposition the member market is demanding that is worthy of our immediate investment -- and is the cornerstone of our competitive advantage.
Seeking Sponsors! Brand a breakout room and introduce a speaker! Keep them caffeinated and sponsor a coffee break!
In this session, attendees will have an opportunity to discuss with one another their favorite moments at events. We will collectively determine what elements of events create lasting impact on attendees and how we can replicate those experiences at our own events.
Conduct member surveys to benchmark your loyalty spectrum.
Identify and understand your member loyalty segments.
Improve member retention through advanced segmenting based on loyalty.
Leverage "like" modeling to promote member engagement and nurture up the loyalty spectrum.
Association teams are routinely under pressure to shake things up, introducing innovations to drive revenue, excite members, and frankly to stay relevant - because if we don't innovate, we allow our competitors to shape the future of our market. But here's the thing: Innovation isn't just about a great idea, it's about leading change. In this session I'll share my five-part framework to innovate for impact so you too can confidently implement the next big thing at your association.
The mission of Convention & Visitor Bureaus (CVB) & Destination Marketing Organizations (DMO) is to promote the long-term development and marketing of a destination, focusing on convention sales, tourism marketing, and service. Their goal is to ensure that meeting professionals are successfully executing events at the destination. There are several benefits to working with a CVB/DMO that go beyond sleeping rooms and meeting venues. This panel will feature four CVB/DMO panelists who will highlight the innovative ways to utilize CVB resources. During this panel we will not only share case studies, success stories, and challenges, but how meeting professionals and CVBs can work together to have a positive economic impact on their regions.
To stay competitive and relevant in the association and meetings industries, it is important to learn from others and share best practices. The round table discussion session will allow attendees to share experiences, best practices, insights and knowledge in small groups and learn from industry peers. Everyone brings unique experience and expertise to sharing sessions!
Group topics will include areas discussed during the breakout sessions and each table will have a moderator to help keep the conversation going. Table conversations will be limited to 3 rounds of 20 minutes each. No assigned seating! Feel free to select and move to tables relevant to YOU each time the bell rings.
Full Day Registration includes access to (4) four hours of interactive and engaging professional development (CAE/CMP), parking, healthy continental breakfast, coffee breaks between sessions, networking hot buffet lunch, and round table discussions with session speakers for a peer to peer idea exchange!
ESSAE Members must sign into their profiles to access the Member Rate. If you have any issues with logging into your profile, please contact us at 518-463-1755.
Overnight Accommodations: The Hilton Garden Inn Clifton Park is extending a discounted room rate of $102 for guests checking in on Thursday, April 4. If you need a room, please contact the hotel directly at 518-371-7777 and provide the room block code ESS. This room block will be available until March 26.
Cancellation Policy: Registrations must be made and paid for by March 20, 2019. Registration cancellations received prior to the deadline may be eligible to receive a refund less $25 service fee. Cancellations received after the stated deadline will not be eligible for a refund. Refunds will not be available for registrants who choose not to attend an event (no-shows). Cancellations will be accepted in writing only and must be received by the stated cancellation deadline. All refund requests must be made by the attendee or credit card holder. Refunds will be credited back to the original credit card used for payment. If you are unable to attend, you may send an alternate to the event without additional charge.


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Hard Work and Progress
Accomplished executives have taken our firm to the top.
Summit Retail Solutions: On a Mission to Grow Brands & Produce Results
Summit Retail Solutions helps brands connect with more customers through customized, authentic face-to-face interactions led by our experienced team of sales professionals in big box retail settings.
Drawing on our depth of marketing and brand partnership experience, we deliver aggressive solutions that significantly increase revenue and brand loyalty.
A Visionary Sales Organization
Summit Retail Solutions will continue to accelerate growth for our clients and people. Through education and networking opportunities, we will equip the next generation of professional sales leaders. By positioning ourselves as a trusted partner to our clients, we will drive their success and redefine face-to-face marketing.
We are committed to:
Authenticity and honesty in all interactions
Innovation and a cutting-edge, solutions-focused mindset
Authentic, face-to-face presentations with a focus on providing tangible value
Recognizing and rewarding hard work and success
Active leadership and mentorship
Identifying leaders and growing our team from the inside
Powered by Leaders
The Summit Retail Solutions executive team has spent years refining the custom, face-to-face marketing and retail sales solutions we use. They invest all their insights and experience into career development and mentorship for our people and into solutions that drive the success of our clients. The experience and achievement of our leadership has transformed Summit Retail Solutions into an industry leader.
Get to know our community of leaders
Chad Powers President
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Chad is a reputed executive with more than a quarter century of experience running a marketing and sales firm in both B2B and B2C settings. He cofounded Summit Retail Solutions in historic downtown New Bedford, Massachusetts, when he recognized BJ's Wholesale Club's need for quality special event sales support. Chad has since led the conception and adaptation of business models for a multitude of major retailers and Fortune 500 companies from around the world. He focuses on building relationships with new retailers and creating new product and program options for the sales force. Chad's entire professional trajectory represents his commitment to recruiting people and presenting them with fun, challenging career opportunities.
Chad is known for his authenticity, sincerity, and work ethic. He is particularly goal-driven when launching a new product or program and can see the opportunities that result.
The Summit Retail Solutions President stays busy by furthering the expansion of the organization and spending time with his four children.
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Daniel Weaver Vice President of Merchandising
Daniel handles brand management, international sourcing, product development, and creative direction. He has developed multiple brands, including Panda Life at Costco, New Domaine at BJ's, and Terra Life at Sam's Club. He has used his superior negotiation abilities to establish several partnerships in Asia. These relationships help expand the reach of China-sourced businesses.
Daniel earned a BS from the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth and has decades of experience in design, product development, sourcing, and brand management. Prior to his Summit Retail Solutions career, he was a Designer at Colehaan and at Tandy Brands Accessories.
When he isn't wielding his creative expertise in the office, Daniel enjoys theater, food, and spending time with his nieces and nephews. He is committed to walking the Jimmy Fund Marathon every year.
Tom Spiro Senior Vice President of Field Operations
Tom joined Summit Retail Solutions as the Vice President of Field Operations, and was promoted to his current position as the company grew. He was with the company from the start and has been instrumental in building our firm into a multi-million dollar enterprise in five years with a presence in 27 states. He now oversees the entire sales force. Tom focuses on growing targeted regions by talent scouting, mentoring, and developing the company's future leaders and managers.
Tom attended Bates College in Maine and received a BA in psychology. He worked with Smart Circle upon graduating and became incorporated as a business owner in Cincinnati, Ohio by age 23. Tom contributed 10 years to developing the organization.
Professionally, Tom is most passionate about talent scouting and leadership development. He has 20 years of experience helping people achieve their goals. Personally, Tom finds pleasure in fitness, golf, time with his family, and watching his children flourish.
Ron Clement Senior Vice President of Business Development
Ron joined Summit Retail Solutions in 2011 as the Vice President of Operations. He was promoted to Senior Vice President of Business Development by 2013. His duties include the management of U.S. vendor relationships with Mexico and the relationships with BJ's, Costco/Wegman's, and Price Chopper. Ron also finds, develops, and introduces new products to retailers.
Ron studied marketing and accounting at UMASS Dartmouth. He is a master relationship builder and has more than 25 years of experience managing sales in small and large companies alike. Ron also applied his passion to the founding of two businesses.
Ron supports the United Way of Southeastern Massachusetts. He is a U.S. military veteran who spends his spare time with his family and friends, and completing carpentry and masonry projects.
Chris Hatch National Program Director
Chris manages national trainers and program managers. He focuses on business development, particularly in terms of program testing and rollouts. He also hires and trains managers within each program, runs training calls for international partners, and assists with the oversight of targeted territories.
Chris is an award-winning sales expert, known for his ability to adjust and reinvigorate campaigns. He has revamped training processes and created the national trainer role as well. His hard work and achievement within Summit Retail Solutions demonstrate his enthusiasm for growth.
Before joining the organization, Chris was a financial advisor for John Hancock, an independent agent for Aflac, and a professional at Putnam Investments. Chris is a graduate of the University of Massachusetts Amherst, where he studied business administration. Outside the workplace, Chris enjoys a passion for sports.
Shad Weinstein CFO
With more than 20 years of experience in managing financial processes, Shad joined Summit Retail Solutions in 2013. As the Chief Financial Officer, Shad oversees the company's financial portfolio and processes. A true example of Summit's collaborative, developmental culture, Shad has continually expanded his role to now include software portfolio management and physical logistics. A true "fixer," Shad thrives on digging into challenges and determining the most beneficial course of action. In his free time, he deeply enjoys spending time with his family and fitting in a round of golf.
Darren Fredette Consultant
In 2013, Darren joined Summit Retail Solutions as SVP, Finance and Strategy, a role in which he was responsible to oversee the company's organizational needs, including key personnel and departments, contract administration, system and process refinement, and reporting. He also spearheaded infrastructure build-outs, a proprietary inventory management system, a freight optimization strategy, as well as capital management and business partner development.
Darren has played a pivotal role in growing our firm with many accomplishments to his name. He established a scalable infrastructure that supported revenue increase, developed and negotiated key legal agreements with our wholesale, indemnity, staffing, retail, and leasing partners, and was instrumental in expanding our operations to Canada, Mexico, the UK, and Spain. Today, Darren is a trusted advisor to our company.
Prior to joining Summit Retail Solutions, Darren spent most of his career in the New York metropolitan area where he invested in and advised companies across a variety of industries. Darren brings to his work years of experience conducting complex financial transactions for investment banks, private equity firms, Fortune 500 companies, and other corporate clients. He has also held leadership roles at several firms including Trimaran Capital Partners, LLC Tetrault Insurance Agency, Inc., and TSG Capital Group, LLC, and $5 billion investment fund Silver Point Capital, L.P. He holds a B.S. in Economics, cum laude, from the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania.
Visit Our Career Center
Learn about our career opportunities and how you can build a successful career with Summit Retail Solutions.


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The Key to You and Me
Jaye Robin Brown
A sweet and funny ownvoices LGBTQ+ romance perfect for fans of Becky Albertalli and Julie Murphy, from the critically acclaimed author of Georgia Peaches and Other Forbidden Fruit!
Piper Kitts is spending the summer living with her grandmother, training at the barn of a former Olympic horseback rider, and trying to get over her ex-girlfriend. Much to Piper's dismay, her grandmother is making her face her fear of driving by taking lessons from a girl in town.
Kat Pearson has always suspected that she likes girls but fears her North Carolina town is too small to color outside the lines. But when Piper's grandmother hires Kat to give her driving lessons, everything changes.
Piper's not sure if she's ready to let go of her ex. Kat's navigating uncharted territory with her new crush. With the summer running out, will they be able to unlock a future together?
"Piper and Kat are imperfect, but always trying their best—aren't we all?—and Brown had me rooting for them all the way through this sweet, slow burn romance. Their triumphs, their blunders, and the way they swing between confidence and self-doubt are utterly relatable."—Misa Sigura, award-winning author of It's Not Like It's a Secret
Praise For The Key to You and Me…
"Piper and Kat are imperfect, but always trying their best—aren't we all?—and Brown had me rooting for them all the way through this sweet, slow burn romance. Their triumphs, their blunders, and the way they swing between confidence and self-doubt are utterly relatable."
— Misa Sigura, award-winning author of It's Not Like It's a Secret
"Such a sweet story with compelling family relationships, awesome female characters, a satisfying mix of coming out and already-out-and-proud, and lots of equestrian goodness!"
— M-E Girard, Lambda Literary Award-winning author of Girl Mans Up
PRAISE FOR The Meaning of Birds: "An evocative story of the thrills of first love and the anguish of first loss. This will break you and heal you."
— Julie Murphy, #1 New York Times bestselling author of Dumplin'
"An unforgettable story that resonated deep in my bones, The Meaning of Birds will break your heart and then put it right back together again. Jess and Vivi's relationship was so beautiful and true. I loved them and didn't want the story to end."
— Amber Smith, New York Times bestselling author of The Way I Used to Be
"A profoundly moving and exquisitely written story of love, loss, grief, and healing. These characters have imprinted on my heart and will be with me for a long, long time."
— Amy Reed, author of Beautiful and The Nowhere Girls
"A heart-wrenching journey through anger and grief, balanced on the sharp edge of hope."
— Malinda Lo, author of Ash and A Line in the Dark
"Prepare to cry, often—and to be thoroughly swept away into this subtle and utterly real story of grief and love and heartbreak and finding yourself in the middle of it all."
— Robin Talley, New York Times bestselling author of The Lies We Tell Ourselves and Our Own Private Universe
"Told in alternating "then" and "now" chapters, the moving narrative captures well the nonlinear progression of Jess' grief and emotional growth. Frank and accessible, this gritty drama realizes with great compassion and empathy the ways reckoning with loss can manifest."
— Kirkus Reviews (starred review)
"Affectionately rendered. Brown depicts Jess with raw realism."
"Brown's exploration of loss is raw and devastating, placing readers directly into Jess's turbulent experience. Captures the ambivalence of grief in this searing and ultimately hopeful novel. For fans of Jandy Nelson, Adam Silvera, and Nicola Yoon."
— School Library Journal
Praise for Georgia Peaches and Other Forbidden Fruit: "Funny, thoughtful, compassionate Jo is a delightful narrator. The frank portrayals of swearing, sexual activity, underage drinking, etc., neither titillate nor condemn; they just depict teens being authentic teens. While Jo and Mary Carlson are white, the rest of their friends display considerable diversity portrayed with nuance through each character's words and actions. A sweet, sexy, honest teen romance that just happens to involve two girls—all the more charming for being so very ordinary."
"Faith matters in this book, but so do family, friends, and being funny. The dialogue is snappy—Joanna is sharp tongued and sometimes bratty—and the characters aren't types. Rather, they're individuals navigating a complicated world, which makes for a rich and satisfying read."
"Brown orchestrates a fast-paced narrative that is powerful, moving, and relatable. This work will resonate with those who enjoy a female protagonist who is bold, brave, candid, and thoughtful. The language is realistic, and the author accurately captures queer and Southern cultures. Brown expertly describes the complex nuances of faith and sexuality. This plot-driven story is humorous, and the characters are effortlessly likable. Teens who root for underdogs will be pulling for this dream team of characters. For fans of David Levithan and John Green's Will Grayson, Will Grayson; this title is a worthwhile purchase for all YA collections."
— School Library Journal (starred review)
"Readers will appreciate the compelling characters, the humor, and the romance. Anyone who enjoys the writing of John Green or Rainbow Rowell will find a sense of familiarity in Brown's writing, and will be left longing for more."
— teenreads.com
HarperTeen, 9780062824585, 368pp.
Publication Date: April 20, 2021
Jaye Robin Brown is the critically acclaimed author of the young adult novels Georgia Peaches and Other Forbidden Fruit and No Place to Fall. She lives in North Carolina with her dog, horses, and wife. You can visit her on Instagram @jayerobinbrown or online at www.jayerobinbrown.com.


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National Disability Strategy Youth Roundtable
Young people with disability met to discuss the barriers they face at the National Disability Strategy Youth Roundtable in Melbourne today.
Bill Shorten, said over 30 people attended the event and the Australian Government provided almost $25,000 to the Youth Disability Advocacy Service to host the Roundtable.
"The Roundtable was a great opportunity for young people with disability to come together and bring creative, forward-thinking ideas and solutions to break down the barriers many of them experience," Mr Shorten said.
"People with disability encounter barriers such as exclusion from community, educational and employment opportunities, a lack of funding for and access to services and lax enforcement of disability standards and legislation.
"The limited opportunities to participate in community life, with barriers to whole-of-life education and employment opportunities, especially during transitional stages, is a major issue for young people with disability.
"For example, access to quality education is recognised as the best path to economic participation and greater independence.
"The National Disability Strategy is a key part of the Government's commitment to promote social inclusion for all Australians and will help address the barriers faced by people with disability.
"This Roundtable is part of the extensive, nation-wide consultations on the development of the Strategy.
"The Strategy will provide a new whole-of-government, whole-of-life approach to disability issues that will tackle the social and economic divide between people with disability and those without.
"It is important for these future leaders to develop a strong network and to collaborate closely as we embark on the development and implementation of the National Disability Strategy.
"Australia recently ratified the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and the new Strategy will be an important mechanism to ensuring the principles are integrated into policies and programs," Mr Shorten said.


When police officer Seth Colter sees the delicate, shabbily dressed beauty in line at the soup kitchen where he's serving, he's gut shot over the idea of her being on the streets cold and alone. More baffling is the dark, possessive instinct that tells him she belongs to him. For Lily Weston, home is a secluded nook in a back alley—until Seth offers her a place to stay. She's wary of his offer, but even one night out of the cold is too much temptation to resist. Seth is convinced Lily is his. The problem is, when his brothers lay eyes on her, the same primitive instinct comes roaring to the surface. The Colters never imagined they'd follow the unconventional path of their fathers, but they can't ignore their mutual need to offer Lily their protection—and their love. But before Lily and the brothers can forge a future together, they must heal the deep wounds of her past.


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POSTGRADUATE PROGRAMMES IN SOCIAL POLICY: PGD; MSP & M.Sc
The Department of Public Administration and Local Government also offers the following degrees and postgraduate diploma on Part-time and full-time bases:
Postgraduate Diploma (PGD) in Social Policy
The Postgraduate Diploma in Social Policy is based on the philosophy of human capacity building as a factor to support development planning and management.
Five 'O' level credit passes including English Language and any four subjects.
A student with at least 3rd class degree in any area of study.
HND holders with a minimum of Upper Credit from recognized institution may also be considered.
HND holders with lower credit and/or BSc holder with pass degree with 5 years and above post-graduation experience
Master of Social Policy (MSP)
The MSP programme offers a professional training in Social Policy at the Master degree level. As a professional programme, this option combines theoretical and practical aspects of Social Policy as an academic discipline and social, political, and administrative processes.
Bachelor of Science Degree in related field from a recognized University with a minimum of Third Class or a postgraduate diploma in a related field from a recognized university.
Applicants that possess Higher National Diploma (HND) with a minimum of Upper Credit and relevant work experience.
Any other qualification that is acceptable to the Board of Postgraduate School and Senate of the University will also be considered as part of the admission requirements.
Master of Science (M.Sc) in Social Policy
The M.Sc. in Social Policy is based on the philosophy of human capacity building as a factor to support development planning and management. The programme is anchored on the philosophy of empowering human resource as a factor of change in the society.
The criteria for admission into M.Sc. Social Policy programme will be as follows:
Five (5) O-level credits passes including English;
Candidates with at least 2nd Class honours Lower Division in Social or Management Science;
Candidates with a PGD in Social Policy with a CGPA of 3.5 on a 5 point scale or its equivalent.
Application Forms can be obtained ONLINE on payment of a non-refundable fee ofN25,000.00 (Twenty five thousand naira only) made payable to "The University of Nigeria Postgraduate Application Fees Account, at any bank within the country using the Remita platform.
Applicants should log onto www.unn.edu.ng and follow the procedures stated below:
Click on UNN Portal or through this link unnportal.unn.edu.ng.
Click on PG Application form to generate invoice for payment.
Use your phone number to generate the invoice. You are advised to use a functional number to enable us reach you for the admission screening test.
Proceed to any Bank with Remita platform for payment.
Return to the UNN Portal with your payment confirmation pin from the Bank and follow the procedure for completing the form.
REFEREE REPORTS
When completing the application form, the candidates shall supply the email addresses of their referees through which a link will be sent to the Referees with request to complete the Report Form in respect of the candidate and submit online. The candidate shall download the three (3) completed Referee Report Forms and enclose them in an envelop for submission to the Secretary, School of Postgraduate Studies along with their online application forms. Please note that applications would not be processed unless the referee reports are available.
Candidate should download transcript request forms (D2) also provided online, and submit to their former Universities/Institutions to forward their academic transcript(s) to "The Secretary, School of Postgraduate Studies, University of Nigeria, Nsukka" to reach him/her not later than 30thJune, 2019. Candidates whose transcripts are not received on or before the deadline by the School shall not have their application forms processed.
SUBMISSION OF APPLICATION FORMS
Most information required would be completed online. However, a copy of the online completed application form should be downloaded and printed. The printed application form with the relevant documents as listed below should be posted or delivered to the Secretary, School of Postgraduate Studies, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, for Nsukka based faculties. Candidates for Enugu Campus based faculties are to submit their application forms by post or deliver them to the Deputy Registrar, School of Postgraduate Unit, University of Nigeria, Enugu Campus. For ease of reference, Enugu Campus based faculties and Institutes/Centre are: Business Administration; Environmental Studies; Health Sciences & Technology; Law; Basic Medical Sciences; Medical Sciences; Institute for Development Studies (IDS); Institute of Maritime Studies; Institute of Maternal and Child Health; Institute of Public Health and Centre for Environmental Management & Control (CEMAC). Candidates are advised to ensure that the following documents are enclosed in the file:
Copies of their qualifying certificates/statements of result and NYSC discharge certificate (Exemption or Exclusion Certificate). Note that To Whom It May Concern shall not be accepted in lieu.
Two copies of the Application summary form (D3) available online should be downloaded & printed:
(i) One copy of the printed summary form (D3) should be glued very neatly (NOT STAPLED) on a 10" X 15" brown envelope;
(ii) The second copy of the printed summary form (D3) should be glued very neatly (NOT STAPLED) on a 9" X 13" white file jacket;
All accompanying documents should be placed in the file jacket specified in (b.ii) and the File Jacket should be placed in the brown envelope as specified in (b.i) above.
All documents must fit into the 10" X 15" envelope and delivered or addressed and sent by courier to "The Secretary, School of Postgraduate Studies, University of Nigeria,Nsukka" and to the Deputy Registrar, School of Postgraduate Studies Unit, Enugu Campus for Enugu Campus-based academic units.
Application starts from 1st March, 2019 and closes on 31st March, 2019.
**IMPORTANT NOTICE TO ALL APPLICANTS**
All applicants will undergo computer based Postgraduate admission screening test.
Check out for information on screening processes via the UNN Website unn.edu.ng from, Monday 1stJuly, 2019, for your further necessary action.
Date for the Screening Test: 19th July, 2019.
NOTE: For Ph.D degree programme, a candidate must have published at least an article from his/her Ph.D Thesis or obtained an acceptance letter from a journal certified by the University of Nigeria, Nsukka as a condition for graduation.
T. Ugwueze,
Deputy Registrar/Secretary, School of Postgraduate Studies


Since more than a month I was planning an amazing adventure up to the Pizzo Stella aiming to skii it up and down with some friends. Closing on the day the weather conditios made it unfeasible due to avalanche warnings, strong winds and heavy cloud formations, so we had no other choice but to give up with the planned tour and had to rearrange the day in some not-so-easy weather conditions.
On the friday night we opted for a closer and "classic" route on the Resegone mountain, a low peak of the alpine foothills characterized by its saw-like ridges from which its name comes from (resegón in local dialect means big saw). Its height and orientations make it difficult to find the right conditions for skiing it, a snowy season is required as well as cold days and possibly non direct sunlight (warm snow is unexpectedly dangerous).
I did this peak only once before during summer, so seeing the trail with a different perspective and brightened colors made the deal. Skin, pack and it was already dawn.
The road, which puts a strain on the tightness of the stomach in the early hours, is a continuous succession of bends that wind for at least three quarters of an hour from the exit of the nearest highway. Once reached an helipad, we left the car to put on our train of laminae and skins.
We left while some snowflakes were still descending, and fortunately the clouds remained much higher than the top, firmly looking at our moves along the slopes.
The first part of the route winds through a forest of birches (?) gifting temporary frames, difficult to capture if not planning (and hoping) to guess the alignment of the incoming trunks.
At the first fork the road rises by altitude and slope, the low clouds of the previous evening dampened this stretch of trail, and the skins struggled to hold the grip on the steepest valleys, the result is a comical sequence of improbable reverses, solved only by breaking the slope or putting the skis on the shoulders and continuing on foot (choice that also decreases the fatigue of the climb).
Closing to the summit, we saw from below the shelter embedded in the spiers, clouds of passage hide and reveal at times the metallic cross placed at few meters from the hut.
We reach it by always keeping skis on our feet, bending us among improbable oblique games on the increasingly harsh slope of the last stretch.
After the usual photos and hugs for the success we turned down to the shelte where we found a young couple managing the structure, a father with his son (not older than ten years), a group of retired skiers and some lone wolve.
A quick beer and we are back with skis, ready to face the descent along a route slightly different from that of the climb, through a gully!
In the upcoming weekend a certain repetition is scheduled … I hope you'll see some amazing things!


We want you… To volunteer with us!
We're an organisation of dedicated and enthusiastic volunteers, all from the East Auckland community, and we'd love for you to join us! It's lots of fun, you get to meet others like you, do good work in the community, and put your unique skillset to use, or learn some new ones! Most roles only take an hour or so per week, and then we have monthly meetings where we cover what to do, catch up with each other, and eat yummy food.
We're an organisation run on courses, so it would be great to have someone take charge and organise facilitators, participants, and goodie bags where necessary. This is vital to our organisation and you'd be doing really valuable work!
E-newsletters are a great way to communicate with our members about events, discounts, and upcoming courses. This wouldn't take much time at all, and can be done in your PJ's! If you think you're content savvy or love to type, this is perfect for you.
Our Toy Library is one of the best ways you can serve your community and reap the benefits. Just dedicate yourself to one weekend per month where you can sit in our Library for two hours and meet other parents. You can bring your kid and borrow the toys whenever you want too!
These are only a few of the ways you can help out, and we're completely flexible, so if you have something else to bring to the table, we'd love to hear it! Let us know below!


Oceans offers plenty of indoor and outdoor space and to enjoy uninterrupted Sydney harbour views.
Oceans catamaran is a perfect catamaran boat for a relaxing cruise whether you are entertaining friends, international guests or hosting an important business function. With lots of space in the cockpit area, your guests can flow out to a large open areas where you can enjoy the sensational views of the harbour.
A selection of char grilled capsicum, eggplant, assorted olives, semi dried tomatoes, dips, breads and crackers and variety of cheese and meats selection.
A variety of cheese, crackers and breads, figs and grapes and a selection of dried fruits and Quince paste.
She is surveyed to hold a maximum of 30 passengers, 1 skipper and 1 crew member dependent on your passenger numbers. Please note, an infant, regardless of age is considered a passenger.
Yes, she has safety rails all the way around the boat and children's lifejackets are available on request. Children must be under adult supervision at all times.
The cockpit area has roll down clears to provide ample shade from the sun and closure from wind and rain.
She is equipped with two modern, spacious marine toilets with easy access for charter.
The boat has cutlery, plates and glasses for 30 passengers as well as salad bowls, platters and other basic kitchen items. A microwave, oven, two fridges, freezer, and 3-burner stove are also available for use.
The boat has a coolers and a fridge available to use. You are able to bring along additional coolers if required. Older style metal eskies are not permitted as they damage the boat.
Yes. Alternatively, we can arrange ice for your charter at an additional cost upon request.
Yes, the vessel is equipped with a sound system which is iPod and mp3 compatible. Please ensure your mp3 player is fully charged. You may also like to bring along a selection of your favourite CDs. Boat is equipped with both indoor and outdoor speakers.
Dreamtime Girl provides excellent protection from the elements because of its covered coach house area and clear roll down awnings that can be rolled out to cover the transom if necessary.


A scheme providing for a reduction in sentence for early guilty pleas was introduced in the previous Criminal Law (Sentencing) Act 1988 (SA) and continues in the current Sentencing Act 2017 (SA), which came into operation on 30 April 2018.
The legislated scheme provides for a reduction of sentence by up to 40% for early guilty pleas in both the Magistrates Court [Sentencing Act 2017 (SA) s 39] and other courts [Sentencing Act 2017 (SA) s 40]. Under the scheme, the earlier the guilty plea is in the court process, the greater the potential reduction in sentence.
Whether the defendant could not have reasonably pleaded guilty at an earlier stage because of circumstances beyond their control.
See Sentencing Act 2017 (SA) ss 39 and 40.
Section 41 of the Sentencing Act 2017 (SA) outlines the process the court must follow in applying sentencing reductions.
For an outline of the specific reductions available and at what stage in the proceedings they apply, see Duty Solicitor Handbook chapter on Guilty Pleas.


sent her to be with her grandpa for the summer where she meets The Beestings… more importantly Zack, who she almost flattened on their first encounter. I really really liked this book, it's very sweet and I just love Zack. He's the most amazing guy ever (which is something I'm sure I say with every book boyfriend I like… but I can't help it), I didn't hate him at all, he didn't annoy me, I just loved him the whole time!
This book is very lightweight, it's a good 'in-between' book even though it touches the heavy topic that is loss it's still funny and cute, it's not only romantic but it's also very loving, Scarlett's grandpa is the sweetest, I wanted to hug him all the time. Scarlett did annoy me a little, mainly because-spoiler alert- she falls in love with the worst guy ever and she didn't see it and it really annoyed me but at the same time I kind of get it, it's just when I was reading it I couldn't stand it. I would still read this book again because of Zack, lol, no but I really liked the story itself, it's kind of cliché and predictable but those are my favorites so I didn't mind that at all, if you're not one to love cliché… this book might not be perfect for you.
To wrap it all up, I really really liked this book and I would wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone who doesn't mind cliché stories. It's really good, as I said, very cute, sweet and heartwarming. A very light read, very comforting and what I liked the most is that I can actually find some of the songs in the book on Spotify, I've been listening to 'New To Me' nonstop since I discovered it. It's so good.
Massive thanks to NetGalley & Flux for sending me an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!
I've been trying to read more contemporary YA and this is right up my alley! I dont know what is it about cliched tropes that makes me want to read them again and again, ahaha. Awesome review!
I'm not sure how I would take this book if I tried reading it. That topic hits very close to home for me. I had a brother and cousin both die from overdoses in their twenties. Glad you enjoyed it!


text:
Q: Very Basic Python 2.7.13 Trouble opening files in IDLE and python took a break from programming and am trying to get an old program up and running. I previously wrote a program called 'NetsimGUI' that uses modules networkx and matplotlib. I could not figure out how to install them on a new computer (running Windows 10) and then realized I could barely do anything at all. In the Python command window after importing pip I have tried the following:
'python pip install networkx'

'pip install networkx'

'python NetsimGUI'

'python NetsimGUI.py'

'Python NetsimGUI.py'

'Python27 NetsimGUI.py'

'NetsimGUI.py'

'NetsimGUI'

'python -m pip install -U pip'

'python -v'

'py27 -v'

'py -27 -v'

'Python -v'

and so on. All give errors saying NameError: name 'python' or name 'py' is not defined or something similar. PATH environment variable is set to C:\Python27 and NetsimGUI.py is in that folder as well. Guessing the solution is something super simple I am missing. Any ideas?

A: It looks like you're basically having trouble installing pip on Windows. What you're doing isn't exactly correct, the correctly way to install pip 2.7 on Windows is detailed here
From the docs:

To install pip, securely download get-pip.py.
Then run the following:
python get-pip.py

Once you've done that, you should be able to install python modules as normal.

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaStackExchange


(C)2018 - T5 PRODUCTION - ARP - TF1 FILMS PRODUCTION - EUROPACORP - TOUS DROITS RESERVES、(C)2019「夜明け」製作委員会、(C)MMXVIII STX Productions, LLC. All Rights Reserved.、(C)2019「チワワちゃん」製作委員会、(C)2019 映画「マスカレード・ホテル」製作委員会 (C)東野圭吾/集英社、(C)Universal Pictures All rights reserved.、(C)2016 REBEL MOVIE, LLC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.、(C)2018 - Maneki Films - Wild Bunch - Arches Films - Gapbusters - 20 Steps Productions - RTBF (Television belge)、(C)2019「映画刀剣乱舞」製作委員会 (C)2015-2019 DMM GAMES/Nitroplus、(C)Eros international all rights reserved. (C)SKF all rights reserved.


The hornbook often presented English children, and subsequently Colonial American children, with their first encounter with letters and words. Because parchment was a scarce material, and thus expensive, the origins of reading and literacy (the alphabet) was printed upon a single piece, along with simple combinations of vowels and consonants and finally a copy of the Lord's Prayer in its entirety and placed upon a wooden paddle. To protect the fragility of the hand printed document, the parchment was sealed under a layer of cow's horn. The process to prepare the horn for use was lengthy, involving soaking the horn in cold water for several days to separate it from the bone, boiling it in water, placing it directly in fire and pressing it between metal plates to transform it into a smooth, translucent piece which was then fastened upon the wood with brass strips and iron tacks. The small paddles often had a hole on one end which a string of leather or twine would be passed through, allowing the hornbook to be tied to its owner and making it portable.
As with many instruments of learning and technology, different variations were made available. Oak hornbooks were the least expensive and accessible to almost everyone. More intricate versions of the hornbook would go on to be created of silver, ivory or bone and were often etched or engraved upon directly. The type of hornbook a student carried could have been viewed as a symbol of wealth or privilege, as different versions of electronic gadgets can be seen today.
The hornbook was a ready, at-hand reminder of the simplest of lessons, but also a reminder that God was a constant presence. A small, red cross was almost always included in the upper left hand corner of the hornbook. Students were to ask God to bless them as they reviewed and studied their lessons; the final section of the hornbook remained The Lord's Prayer, offered up as a routine closing. As colonists moved away from the reign of the church of England, the red cross faded from American hornbooks as primers began to move to include secular teachings.
The role of play in education was explored as far back as 68 A.D. The Roman rhetorician Quintilian believed that children learned best through play and suggested the first incarnation of what we know today as alphabet blocks, claiming that the best way to learn the alphabet was to give children "blocks and tablets containing the letters to play with." (Huey, p. 241) It was thought that children who had strongly interacted with objects of educational value would learn and retain information at a much higher rate of success than those who learned through strictly rote methods.
Hornbooks were often used both in lessons and at play. Perhaps the most popular form of hornbook amongst children was one that was made entirely from gingerbread with icing creating the traditionally written portion. Children would get to eat each letter as it was learned. German educational reformist Johann Bernhard Basedow, a large proponent of learning literacy through play, went as far as stating that each school should have a dedicated baker. "The children must have breakfast, and it is not necessary for any child to eat the alphabet more than three weeks. The cost of shaping the dough into letters is less than one-half penny daily for each child. The acquisition is entirely worth so much and is possible even to the poor children." (Huey, p. 242) It would appear that school budgets have always been a cause for concern, regardless of time or choice of materials.
Children carried hornbooks as small reminders of simple lessons. Colonial American children went on to develop their own versions of handbooks through other mediums. It was not uncommon to find the alphabet, along with favourite rhymes, popular sayings of the time, prayers and other familiar verse stitched in thread upon linen. These personalized versions of handbooks were known as samplers, and by creating them, children were no longer simply reading and reciting simple lessons, but actively creating the content they would later review themselves.
It may be considered a stretch to call electronic devices such as Android phones and iPads the hornbooks of today, but a simple browse through the app store could prove interesting in this regard. In the Apple App Store alone, there are well over 1000 apps listed as a result of searching the term "alphabet." The apps range in technological advancement from a simple backlit, hornbook-like printed alphabet to fully interactive, animated alphabetical characters who move around the screen to match the swipe of a finger with accompanying music. The basic sentiment of a handheld device existing to help students to remember their alphabet and learn the basics of reading remains the same though the technology has allowed the presentation to become, in some cases, vastly different.
It would be interesting to conduct a study on how different alphabet apps, from the very simple visual "hornbook style" to the highly interactive, impact early readers. The increasing affordability and availability of smartphones and e-readers to younger users along with the advancements in app design and content will make it increasingly harder to test children in an untainted state. Some may even argue that the written alphabet, which can still be found strewn across the tops of classrooms the world over, will eventually become obsolete. Of course, the same has been said about brick and mortar libraries.
As with many other forms of advancement, tradition is something that will always be reflected upon when considering full abandonment. In the case of the hornbook, the end of the nineteenth century saw the rise in illustrated tri-fold booklets. Historian Andrew Tuer wrote, "In its later days, the humble hornbook was treated with the full measure of contempt lavished on a thing which has served its purpose. 'Destroy and forget,' said everybody, and alas! Everybody did." (Tuer, p. 6) Perhaps if Andrew Tuer opened a simple alphabet app on a smartphone today, he would be pleasantly surprised at what he might find.
Bookmaking with kids: For the love of reading, writing & art. (2008, Aug 25). Hands-on history of books: Hornbooks. Retrieved from http://www.bookmakingwithkids.com/?p=716.
Huey, E.B. (1913). The psychology and pedagogy of reading. New York, NY: The Macmillan Company.
Ong, W.J. (1988). Orality and literacy. New York, NY: Routledge.
Reeder, R.R. (1900). Historical development of school readers and of method in teaching reading. Columbia University Contributions to Philosophy, Psychology, and Education. 8 (2). 92.
Tuer, A.W. (1897). History of the horn-book. London: Leadenhall Press.
This entry was posted in Research Paper and tagged america, colonial, education, england, hornbook, tool. Bookmark the permalink.
I have never heard of such a tool before. It certainly doesn't seem far fetched to compare it to modern tablets at all. Interesting to see how its decline was tied to the rise of spelling books.
I would also say that it isn't far-fetched to compare hornbooks and modern tablets' affordances as symbols of wealth and privilege. Students and parents taking note of wood types and craftsmanship would likely be rather equivalent to noting company names and model numbers. The technology may change, but the competitiveness doesn't.
Though it does appear that hornbooks were more readily available to the masses than what I would initially think to be true of iPads, Kindles, and the like today, I did find an interesting parallel between having the most intricate (or expensive) model in both sets of circumstances. Unfortunately, I believe that regardless of time and progress, there will always be a desire to "Keep up with the Joneses" as it were.