text:
Gilbert tucked his chin against a brisk September breeze and hurried along Theological Hall’s carefully manicured lawn. Young men and women were grouped across the grass, buzzing with excitement. He wound his way between them, searching for his friends.
Turrets stretched from the sprawling brick building up to a bluebird sky, and a bell tower stood tall and proud above the ornate front doors. Theological Hall was the center of Queens College, the fine institution at which Gilbert had been a pupil for the past fortnight.
The campus was lush and vibrant, its refined landscape made crisp and colorful with autumn’s changing leaves. Gilbert’s eye was drawn by an especially spectacular maple tree. Caught in the glow of late afternoon sunlight, its orange and red leaves burned like a bonfire.
“Watch it, coming through.”
Gil twisted around and jumped back. The crowd behind him parted as two upperclassmen lurched past, lugging a bronze statue between them. It was a likeness of the lady Justice, about three feet tall from head to plinth, with her book in one hand and her scales in the other.
“‘Learning is not attained by chance, it must be sought for with ardor and attended to with diligence,’” were the words engraved at her feet.
“What’s that?” a girl beside him asked her companion, watching the young men stagger forward.
“It’s the Lady of Learning,” someone called, their voice rising above the crowd’s inquisitive murmurs. “The first place team of this year’s Fall Freshmen Scavenger Hunt will take it home for the year!”
Gilbert grinned and pushed his way onward. He had a feeling that such a prize would be greatly coveted, and he was determined to be of assistance in its conquest.
He found Moody, Josie, Ruby, Charlie and the others on the wide stone steps leading up to the hall, basking in the sunshine. Moody jumped up at his approach and pompously shook his hand. Gilbert greeted the others with warmth. He’d started classes late, having been delayed by his apprenticeship at Kingston Hospital, and hadn’t seen much of anyone since he’d left Avonlea for the summer.
He’d barely time to wonder where Anne was, when he heard her dulcet tones calling up the stairs behind him. He turned.
She took the steps two at a time, not looking up from the sheaf of papers in her hands. Her frilly white dress was tied with a blue ribbon around her waist, childlike and delicate despite her long skirts. One hand held her hat to her head against the wind, decorated with flowers as always, little white sprigs of baby’s breath between soft blue petals. Her other hand clutched the stack of papers and a fistful of skirt, wrinkling both in her haste to reach them.
“I’ve read the first clue!” she called, breathless. “It’s obvious— That trophy will be ours!”
She paused at the first landing, looking up when she reached Ruby’s feet.
“Oh!” She stopped short at the sight of him.
The wind stained her cheeks pink. Gilbert tried not to stare. She looked different— Her hair was up, he realized belatedly. He wasn’t used to seeing her without her twin braids, but of course they were at college now. They weren’t children anymore.
“‘Lo, Anne.” He nodded. She peeked up at him cautiously, golden lashes fluttering at the low sunlight. Gilbert warmed at the sight of her, his face creasing in a smile before he could wrestle it down. Her cheeks glowed in response.
“Are you playing for team Avonlea?” she asked. Two copper curls hung loose from her elegant coif and brushed against the bare slope of her shoulder. Gilbert’s pulse thrummed in his ear.
“Of course.” He jammed his hands in his pockets and slouched. He suddenly felt very awkward.
“Thank the Celtic goddess Rhiannon!” She jumped the last few stairs between them. “I don’t know if you’ve seen, Gilbert, but the winning prize is a glorious bronze likeness of lady Justice with the most dignified quote beneath— Well, I don’t suppose that would matter much to you, but it would sit ever-so-charmingly in the corner of my rose garden… anyway, I’m sure you, Gilbert Blythe, would never back down from the pursuit of a competition well won?”
“Certainly not.” He straightened, just holding back his smirk. “And I’m always determined to do Avonlea proud.”
Her eyes grew wide and misty. “How wonderful.” Gilbert watched with consternation as she swayed on her feet. He reached to steady her on instinct, but she caught herself, snapping quickly upright. The apples of her cheeks were bright and pink. “Here, uh,” she waved a piece of paper in his face, “here are the rules.”
He plucked the page from her grasp, and she turned away, distributing the rest to their teammates.
“Each team has a set of clues to follow which will take us around campus,” she explained. “That’s the point— to help us become familiar with Queens’ buildings and grounds. To win, we must collect each clue in order, and be the first to find our way back to the Lady of Learning.”
“‘Seal with wax thine anecdote; then stop here to post thy note,’” Ruby read aloud. She looked to Moody, confused.
“Perhaps the community bulletin board?” he suggested.
“No, no, no!” Anne exclaimed. She bent her head over the clue scrawled in elaborately curled writing at the bottom. Another tendril at the back of her elegant, grown-up twist escaped and tickled the delicate knob between her shoulder blades. Gilbert stared. His mouth was dry.
“It’s the post office, of course!” She twisted around, and Gilbert found himself nose-to-nose with her wild-eyed excitement. She gazed at him, brows raised. He started when it dawned on him she waited for his reaction.
“You must be right,” he agreed, a bit tongue-tied, then tried to elaborate. “You always are.” His stomach dropped when she bristled and huffed, but then she studied him, thoughtful. He felt his cheeks burn in spite of himself, and he lowered his gaze, neck hot inside his scratchy wool scarf.
Keep it together, Blythe, he scolded himself.
“Thank you, Gilbert,” she said softly, “I’m sure your generous use of hyperbole in this instance is in earnest.” She turned, then, and began the unenviable task of herding their peers to the post office for no other reason than because a piece of paper told them to. Gilbert watched her for another dazed moment, then jumped to help.
He never told her he’d chosen to end his courtship with Winni. They’d seen glimpses of each other since then, but hadn’t truly spoken since before he went to Kingston for the summer. She’d heard of it somehow, of course.
An unmarked envelope had found its way to his desk sometime in July. Neatly folded inside was a magazine clipping. Gilbert recognized the curlicues on the typeset from a literary magazine Anne subscribed to. His fingers traced and retraced the words.
It's all I have to bring to-day,
This, and my heart beside,
This, and my heart, and all the fields,
And all the meadows wide.
Be sure you count, should I forget, —
Someone the sum could tell, —
This, and my heart, and all the bees
Which in the clover dwell.
— Emily Dickinson
There was no note or return address, but Gilbert knew with absolute certainty the poem was from Anne. He didn’t know why she’d sent it to him, though, and hadn’t quite enough courage to ask. Instead, he’d dithered embarrassingly for two weeks, before he steeled his nerve and posted his reply.
When you are old and grey and full of sleep,
And nodding by the fire, take down this book,
And slowly read, and dream of the soft look
Your eyes had once, and of their shadows deep.
How many loved your moments of glad grace,
And loved your beauty with love false or true,
But one man loved the pilgrim soul in you.
— William Butler Yeats
The exchange was not explained or repeated.
Now they’d been together at Queens College for two weeks, and Gilbert was determined to resume their friendship.
He was going to find a way to make Anne smile. Then, he was going to make her laugh. Then, he would probably say something to annoy her, just to let her roll her eyes, and then he would make her laugh again. Then he would hold her hand and tell her that he loved her.
First things first.
They followed their clues to the registrar’s office, and then to the dining hall, where half the freshman class appeared to have been distracted from their hunt by a generous spread of punch and cookies. Charlie and Josie joined them, promptly abandoning team Avonlea.
Gilbert swiped a cookie and then ducked outside the crowded dining hall. He joined their dwindling group in the hallway and stood behind Anne, reading the next clue over her shoulder.
“‘Take heed,’” she announced aloud, “‘classes here may be sanguinary; proper attire keeps us sanitary.’”
“What’s sang-win-erry?” Ruby asked, repeating aloud the unfamiliar word.
“I think it has to do with one’s family relations,” Anne said, a crease between her eyebrows. “Perhaps the hall of records—”
Gilbert couldn’t help it. He laughed.
“It means ‘bloody!”’ He exclaimed, and snickered at Anne’s affronted expression. Ruby shuddered and pulled a face, but Gilbert hardly noticed. He knew exactly where the clue led.
“Mr. Peters, the lab assistant in my first-year biology course, is always saying that: ‘proper attire keeps us sanitary.’ He must have said it five times my first day!” Gilbert’s excitement mounted. “It means the medical wing of Theological Hall, surely. C’mon, I’ll show you. I have classes there three times a week.” And, without thinking too closely on his actions, he grabbed Anne’s hand and dragged her down the corridor to the front doors.
She exhaled a happy sigh when they stepped out into the late afternoon sunshine. Her hand clutched reflexively to his, and they shared a moment, reveling in the crisp bite of approaching winter.
Their friends lagged in the doorway. Gilbert paid them half a mind, but he could tell their interest in the hunt was waning.
He turned to Anne. His stomach fluttered when he found her gazing up at him, blue eyes wide.
“Shall we?” he asked. Inexplicably, he removed his hat and held it against his thudding heart.
She nodded slowly, lips curling upward. Gilbert promptly forgot about the others and pulled her down the sidewalk. She giggled, skipping a bit to keep up.
He released her hand to open the door at the east wing of Theological Hall, ushering her inside. Shadows fell thick as dust when the door snapped shut behind them.
His shoes clicked down the tile corridor. Her boots scuffed hastily alongside him.
“These are the third- and fourth-year labs,” he explained when they passed a series of windows on either side of the hallway, revealing neat rows of tables with equipment stacked against the walls. “Doctor Ward put in a good word for me, so I’ll sit in as third assistant next semester.”
“Third assistant?” she queried.
“It’s mostly clean-up and dung removal.” He gazed longingly into a corner laboratory, one hand on the windowpane. “I can’t wait.”
“Good for you, Gilbert,” Anne said, settling against the wall opposite him. She crossed her arms and cocked her head. “You’ve always been so focused. I admire that about you.”
Gilbert raised an eyebrow, a smile itching at the corners of his mouth. “Really?”
“Mm.” She lifted a shoulder and studied her hands. “It’s why I was surprised when you told me you were considering an engagement last spring. Really, Gilbert. You’ll be grateful not to have a wife distracting you from your studies.” She looked up to find him gaping at her. Her eyes skittered away, a blush blooming across her cheek. She hurried to continue, stumbling over the words. “We’re much too young to be getting engaged anyway.”
“I—” Gilbert didn’t know what to say. “How old were your parents when they married?”
The question spilled from his lips without thought. Her eyes widened. He cringed almost immediately.
“I’m sorry, Anne, that was stupid of me—”
She shook her head. “No, I didn't have the chance to tell you. I followed a few leads and learned a bit more about them this summer.”
“Yes.” Her smile was brilliant. “My mother was a teacher with red hair, and my father would send her poetry.” Gilbert’s mind flashed to the magazine clipping tucked safely inside his Bible, locked inside the desk in his bedroom. His heart stuttered, cheeks warming, but Anne didn’t notice. Her eyes grew dark. “They were so young when they— when they died. My mother was just nineteen.” She blinked up at him. “Nineteen, Gilbert! It’s such a tragically romantic age.”
“I’m nineteen,” Gilbert said.
Anne stilled. Her mouth opened like she meant to keep speaking, but no words came out. It occurred to Gilbert that was perhaps not the most empathetic thing to say.
“‘Doth thou need a specific tome? Come, bring thy notes; no more studying at home.’”
They turned. Moody read aloud from a slip of paper in his hand, pacing down the hallway toward them. He looked up when he finished and shook it in the air.
“How did I find this before the two of you? You had at least a five minute start on me.” He gloated, too distracted by his triumph to notice he might be interrupting.
Anne looked from Moody to Gilbert and back again, eyes wide. Her lips parted, and she briefly looked so lost it was almost comical. Then with a shake of her head, she pulled herself upright and swept imperiously down the stone hallway to snatch the clue from Moody’s hand.
Gilbert followed, drawn irresistibly behind her. Silently, they read the words scrawled upon the slip of paper one more time.
“The library,” they said together.
Even Moody’s enthusiasm for the scavenger hunt waned in the face of Anne and Gilbert’s shared reverence for the Library at Queens College, a tall, airy building that had quickly become one of Gilbert’s favorite places on campus. Moody parted ways with them as they mounted the stair to the third level, insisting it made more sense to split up and search for the next clue. Gilbert knew him well enough to see his eyes glaze over at the prospect of traversing another floor of the library, forced to listen to his bookish friends’ running commentary.
The third level was the top floor of the library, where rows and rows of dusty books were stacked close together, and light streamed from tall windows set every few feet in the walls. Gilbert had been to a library, of course, before coming to Queens. But he’d never had the time or the right to dawdle, to explore the multitudes of worlds within its pages, to sit within its hoarded knowledge, sprawled upon a comfy-looking armchair in the corner. There was something magical about it, this freedom of access to mankind’s best thoughts and ideas, and Gilbert was earnestly grateful.
“I used to dream I had a library like this when I was in the orphanage,” Anne murmured. “In my stone tower where I was a beautiful princess, unfairly imprisoned.” Her eyes traveled up a gleaming wood ladder to the top row of books, stacked all the way to the ceiling.
Gilbert smiled. “Cordelia,” he said, as though they reminisced about an old friend.
Anne startled. “Yes, that’s right.” He saw her glance at him sideways.
“Would you ever dream of being rescued?” he asked.
She shrugged. “Sometimes. Mostly, Cordelia liked the tower. She just… got lonely.” Her cheeks burned with another blush, and she looked away as though she’d said something shameful. Gilbert opened his mouth, intending to probe further, when she straightened and gasped.
“Look, Gilbert!” Anne rushed across the room to a small sitting area around a fireplace. On the mantle was another likeness of the Lady of Learning, a smaller version than the statue they had seen that afternoon. She picked the statue up in one hand and discovered yet another slip of paper beneath it.
“‘Roses grow beside the chapel. Feel thou peckish? Grab an apple.’”
Gilbert followed and plucked the clue from her hand. He read it again, sure he was missing something. Anne sighed loudly, a playful smile dawning on her lips.
“I might have known I couldn’t keep a hideaway secret from you, Gilbert Blythe. If I didn’t know better, I’d think you planned it this way.”
“Is that so?” Gilbert said, playing along though he didn’t quite follow.
“Mhm.” She paused, watching him. Dust swirled in a pane of light slanting from the window high above them. They weren’t alone, but the handful of other students sprawled at desks between the stacks felt very far away, paying them no mind.
“Reedbarrow Hall has a lovely little courtyard hidden in one corner— Well, it’s not that small; large enough for a chapel and rose garden, and even a beautiful miniature apple orchard.” Her voice grew soft, hushed in the already quiet space. Gilbert felt a tingle behind his ears at the intimacy of her whisper. “There are only four rows of apple trees, but when you stand right in the center and get very quiet and look up at the sun, it feels just like the orchard at the Barry’s back in Avonlea, if you can believe it. It’s my secret place, Gilbert Blythe, my sanctuary. You wouldn’t deprive me of my sanctuary, would you?”
Gilbert heard the teasing lilt of her question as though in a dream.
“Certainly not,” he whispered back. “I’d rather you weren’t deprived of anything. But this once, would you share it with me?”
He’d never tire of that blush, sweet and freely given. She nodded and held her hand out for the clue. He passed it to her, brushing his fingertips lightly along her palm, and it felt like a promise. She pocketed the slip of paper safely with the others.
The sun was setting as they exited the library, lending a golden, almost dauntless cast to the evening. Still, it wasn’t until they mounted the stair to Reedbarrow Hall that Gilbert summoned the courage to ask.
“Anne,” he said, holding the door open for her. He willed his voice to remain nonchalant, and mostly succeeded. “Did princess Cordelia have any great romances?”
Anne stumbled on the top step, head snapping around to gape at him. “Certainly not! I was just a child—”
“Imaginary romances,” Gilbert rushed to clarify. “And I wasn’t asking about you, I was asking about Cordelia.”
He let the door fall closed behind them. Anne led him into the darkness, hurrying to stay just a few steps ahead.
She waited until Gilbert’s stomach was tied into knots, and he was sure he’d finally overstepped that last boundary that would end with a slate cracked over his head, when she finally answered.
“No.” She turned a corner, and stopped when the hallway ended at a small doorway. Gilbert stepped forward eagerly when she pushed the door open, drawn by the golden sunset and the sweet scent of apple trees. Anne turned to him on the threshold.
“Cordelia didn’t think too much about romance, though she hoped it would happen to her someday. She gave little thought to the groom, but desperately wished to be a bride, and planned her dream wedding,” Anne’s eyes shone, rising from the sturdy trunks to branches laden with fruit to warm afternoon sky, “in a bright, sunlit orchard just like this one.”
They passed together into the courtyard, set snugly within Reedbarrow Hall’s four walls. Earth sprouted damp and green at their feet, and high above their heads, a wisp of clouds reflected the colors of the sunset. They trod down rows of apple trees, branches bowing with the weight. Further ahead, a small chapel rose from the grass, stained glass glowing with a multitude of colors, brilliant even from a distance. Roses grew like whiskers around its circumference.
“So, princess Cordelia would get married here,” he commented, glancing about the courtyard with evident delight. “Would you?” Belatedly, he realized they were holding hands.
“Someday, perhaps,” she said, eyes sparkling. She didn’t seem to notice the recent hand-holding development. The orchard had cast its spell over her, too. “There’s plenty of time for that after I’ve become a teacher and shaped the impressionable young minds of my pupils.”
Gilbert nodded. “But someday, if the situation were right, would you be married in a place like this?”
Anne’s brow creased. “I would,” she said slowly, her voice darkening with suspicion. Her eyes traveled down to their clasped hands. She startled and made to pull away, but he tightened his grip, holding her fast.
“I see.” He coughed and rocked back on his heels. “Would you marry me?” He posed the question as before, schooling his face to innocence.
Anne froze. “What,” she stammered, “you mean, someday?”
Gilbert shrugged. “Sure.” He lifted an eyebrow, a silent challenge.
Anne’s cheeks burned as red as an ambrosia apple. “Well, one can never know the future…” She trailed off helplessly. A copper curl nudged against her neck. Her eyes flicked up to meet his, then fell to her feet. Gilbert felt his blood rush, circulating just beneath his prickling skin. He leaned forward, painfully eager for her to continue.
“...but I suppose I would, yes,” she said and cleared her throat awkwardly.
Gilbert blinked. “Really?” He made a token effort to keep the grin off his face before giving in, wide and dopey. Something like victory thrummed in his chest.
Anne peeked up at him, a hesitant glance that paused, arrested by his smile. Her eyes widened, alarm sliding over her face. Gilbert quickly schooled his expression.
“Gilbert,” her voice tightened, rising in pitch, “this is hypothetical, isn’t it? Oh, why must you delight in embarrassing me at every turn—”
“You didn’t say ‘hypothetically’,” he pointed out. “You said, ‘someday.’”
“But you asked me in a hypothetical manner!” she argued. Her eyes were bright, her bosom rising with feeling. The blush had drained from her face except for two splashes of color high on her cheekbones. He stepped closer.
“Just to get you to admit it.” He quirked a grin, unabashed. Her mouth fell open.
“Gilbert Blythe, you rotten boy! You tricked me.”
“You can be very stubborn, Anne,” he said with utmost patience. A delicate crease formed between her pretty brows. Gilbert turned her palm over and cradled it in his, practically buzzing in his skin. They stared down together at his calloused fingers wrapped around her thin ones. He was quiet for a moment, allowing warmth to build in his chest and buoy him forward. She took a sharp breath, and he panicked, thinking she meant to rebuke him. “I want to tell you something,” he said in a rush. She stared at him, blush rising once more. His heart raced. “And I think you’re ready to hear it. Are you?”
Her jaw had dropped slightly, lips parted in distraction as her eyes flicked between his. Her tongue swiped at her bottom lip, pink and moist. Something quivered deep in Gilbert’s stomach. Slowly, she nodded.
He slid their palms together, twisted his fingers between hers. “I’ve never met anyone like you. I have admired you and your bravery, wit and kindness to others for as long as I have known you. You are smart, and sweet, and passionate about so many things.” A chuckle got lost in his throat. He squeezed her hand for courage, comforted when she didn’t pull away. “I’ve loved you without your permission for quite some time and I don’t mean to stop, but I was wondering, hoping rather, if I might have it now.”
He tried not to seem to expectant. She blinked, dazed.
“If you might have… what?” she asked. Her gaze lingered on his mouth. Gilbert shivered like a newborn calf.
“Your permission,” he repeated.
“To— to love me?” She squared her shoulders and met his eyes directly. She was trying to be brave, but he could tell she was lost at sea, clutching to his hand like an anchor.
He nodded. “It would make things much less complicated.”
“For you, perhaps!” Anne exclaimed. “I’m not certain I’m not hallucinating this whole conversation— I might have gotten into the moonshine again, gotten drunk and dreamed all this—”
He couldn’t help it. He tugged her into his space— much too close to be appropriate, Mrs. Lynde would knock him upside the head for it— and carefully wound his arm around her waist. He held her loosely, an aggravating six inches between them, gazing down at her upturned face. Her freckles looked darker than usual.
“It would be a dream, would it?” He smirked, pulling her imperceptibly closer. “To learn that I love you?”
Her breath was shaky. “Far be it from me to be ungrateful for the greatest gift one person can bestow upon another, that of being loved and admired and ch-cherished.” Her voice broke and she dropped her head, but not before Gilbert saw her eyes grow wet. “Especially from you,” she murmured, so quiet he had to stoop to hear.
She couldn’t seem to look up just then, so Gilbert pushed his luck. He wrapped both arms around her and pressed their chests together. She startled, grasping at his biceps. Gilbert’s eyelids drooped at the soft swell of her bosom against him.
“Anne.” His voice was rough, so he cleared his throat, took a deep, tingling breath. “Do I have your permission, then?”
She was tense, her breath harsh and fast. Her pulse beat in the delicate notch at her throat. Her fingers tightened on his arms. “I am so grateful—” Something must cross his expression, because she hurried to add, “and I don’t want you to stop, but, but... just what are you expecting from me?”
Her face was so fearful he almost laughed. “Nothing has to change if you don’t want it to. I just wanted you to know, and to know that you know I know… that you know. I think.” She huffed a begrudging laugh and relaxed against him. Gilbert felt himself softening, his tongue running away from him again. “And that if you ever need anything- a study partner, an accomplice in crime, anything- you know you can ask me, whatever it is.”
“Even if I want to be first in the class, and you’re the only student above me?” she challenged, pulling away to pin him with a beady eye.
He grunted, pretending to think it over. “Even then,” he acquiesced. She gasped. His fingers curled around her waist. “But I know you’re too fair-hearted to ask such a thing of me.”
She giggled and patted his cheek. Gilbert’s ears tingled. “It’s not my fault you’re so easily bamboozled,” she sighed.
His face hurt from smiling. “And, of course, I want you to marry me someday.”
Her hand stilled against his face, eyes widening again. “Are you asking— I mean, are we en—”
“Certainly not.” He tried not to feel too stung when she sagged against him with relief. “You’re much too young, and haven’t taught any impressionable young minds in the classroom yet.” He opted not to mention the three years of medical school ahead of him. “No, I’m afraid it’s a long road for us, before I can well and truly sweep you off your feet.”
She hummed, a response Gilbert wasn’t entirely sure how to parse. “So we’re not engaged.” She tilted her head, confident again now she was back on familiar ground. “But we are…”
“Pre-engaged,” Gilbert supplied, just a tad hopefully. “That’s rather romantic, isn’t it?”
She drew back, horrified. “Surely not! Pre-engaged sounds tawdry, almost. Perhaps one could countenance an understanding of a pre-engagement— or a pre-pre-engagement—”
“Good lord, Anne,” he said, “how many times do you expect me to propose?”
She met his eyes, scowling—
— and together they dissolved into laughter. Gilbert was transported by the experience, holding Anne close in their mutual mirth, watching her cling to him as she shook and gasped for breath.
“Very well,” he agreed through the last of his chuckles, “we are pre-pre-pre-engaged,” adding the extra ‘pre’ just to be the pain in Anne’s side she’d grown accustomed to. “And you give me permission to love you.”
He gazed at her expectantly, hopefully. She bit her distracting bottom lip and nodded.
He couldn’t think what else to do but grin stupidly at her. She returned his smile, and they looked at each other for what occurred to Gilbert was probably an embarrassingly long time.
Anne shifted, her face growing troubled. Gilbert waited patiently.
“Is it— that is—” She cleared her throat. “Pre-engagements are usually secret, aren’t they?”
Gilbert paused. Anne regarded him intensely. He met her eyes.
“A secret engagement is romantic, surely.”
She melted against him. His heart stuttered and his knees went weak, but he gathered her up, scolding himself to firmness. His stomach fluttered uncontrollably.
“A secret engagement between kindred spirits who understand and lo-love one another, who make no demands on the present but promise more in the future if it still be desired, must be the height of tragical romance,” Anne breathed, beside herself.
Gilbert smirked. “Tragical romance sounds good.”
“It’s terrible,” she rebuked him. “But one would never wish it otherwise.”
He smiled at his singular girl— my secret future wife, his brain supplied. “I love you.” He didn’t mean to say it, but really, he did.
She gaped up at him. “I- I do, too,” she said, which was quite a lackluster response from a normally vibrant elocutioner, but Gilbert decided to let it go when her hands slid up his arms and clutched at his shoulders. His head felt light, vision swimming when she pushed herself onto her toes and nudged her nose against his.
He swallowed. “It’s a shame, but I don’t know when I’ll be able to speak to you like this again.” His voice was low and hushed, their faces close together.
“That’s the tragical part of it,” she whispered back.
His knees gave out, and they stumbled backwards together. Anne giggled through her gasp, the delight on her face nearing ecstasy. Gilbert, bewitched as always by her lack of guile, felt his courage mount, and was intensely grateful for her expressive nature.
“Anne,” he said before he lost his nerve. “Who knows the next time we can understand each other this way. It could be years before we find another moment like this—”
“Not years, surely,” she exclaimed. Gilbert was warmed by her dismay.
“I wouldn’t normally be so bold, but…” He layered his voice with earnestness. Her eyes narrowed.
“Can I kiss you?” he asked. “I won’t tell anyone,” he hurried to add. “No one will know… except for us.”
She exhaled in a rush. “Alright.” He leaned forward, eyes alight, but then she raised a hand to ward him off. “Wait, I’ve changed my mind.” He’d only a moment to droop before she continued, “I want to kiss you.”
“Hold still,” she added, leaning closer, as though Gilbert hadn’t turned to stone at her words. His heart gushed in his ears. She pressed their lips together, soft and dry, and he lost sense of time, his cares and worries, floating in the ether of her kiss.
“How was that?” she asked when they parted. Gilbert stared at her mouth, pained to think it had just been attached to his, but now was separate again.
“Mm,” he said, and pushed his nose against her temple. “I need a better understanding…” he brushed his lips down her soft cheek, nuzzled his face against its warmth. “So tragical…”
She giggled and turned to meet his mouth. “But romantic, too,” she murmured between kisses. “Our little secret.”
The sun had set before they remembered the scavenger hunt, the Lady of Learning long claimed by another lucky team. Team Avonlea would be disappointed on their behalf, but Gilbert wasn’t too bothered. Time spent in pursuit of a worthy goal was never wasted, he knew.


text:
Four prospective buyers are vying for what could be the cheapest piece of real estate in the city: a former comfort station on Columbia Road that the city of Boston put on the market this fall. The minimum bid for a successful proposal was set at just $100.
Four private groups have submitted plans to turn the 102-year-old site, shuttered since 1977, into an updated building serving modern needs–all while maintaining the building’s historic character, according to Department of Neighborhood Development. The building was once used as a way station for commuters waiting for trolleys in the bustling Uphams Corner business district.
The proposals range from a local bistro to a daycare center with development costs ranging from $84,500 to $1.1 million. All proposals are privately funded, with costs including necessary rehabilitation to the 1,200 square foot building, which sits adjacent to the Dorchester North Burial Ground on Columbia Road.
Local entrepreneur Noah Hicks, owner of Bowdoin Bike School, partnered with Historic Boston Incorporated and the American City Coalition to propose Bike Kitchen. The full-service bike shop and cafe would serve coffee, baked goods, and sandwiches, and selling refurbished bikes and cycling accessories. Construction is expected to take seven months and cost $1.1 million.
Kevin Kyo, owner of the popular restaurant 224 Boston Street, has proposed creating a neighborhood bistro in the space. The project is expected to cost $200,000 and once proper permits are secured, is expected to take five months to complete. 224 Boston Street is located, as its name suggests, several blocks away from the Columbia Road comfort station.
The two other proposals are a $162,000 daycare center for children between 2 and 5 years old and a grocery store and office space at $84,500.
In mid-January, DND will present the proposals to the community, scoring them based on the community’s interest, and then determine who receives the bid. The comfort station is currently owned by the city of Boston. Its assessed value is $86,200.
“We’ve been working very closely with Uphams Corner Main Streets and the surrounding neighborhood,” said Sheila Dillon, the director of DND who is charged with selecting a new owner for the building. “We’re very excited to have four proposals and we’re hoping this wonderful small building will soon be an important community asset.”

domain: economics


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Drawing Different Moe Characters: Personality and Facial Expressions
This book explains how to draw diverse moe characters. Learn to modify the parts of the face according to a character's personality and draw facial expressions from various angles! A large section is dedicated to explaining how to express the same emotions in different ways. Let’s break the stereotype that all moe characters look the same!
Chapter 1: The head
Chapter 2: Neck and shoulders, arms and hands
Chapter 3: Facial expressions
Chapter 4: Examples of character variation
■ by Mosoko Miyatsuki, Tsubura Kadomaru
■ 257 x 190 mm / 176 pages
■ Published in August 2015
■ ISBN: 9784798610702
■ Japanese title: 萌えキャラクターの描き分け 性格・感情表現編
Rights sold to China, South Korea
Mosoko Miyatsuki studied manga, anime and character design at Nihon Kogakuin College. She has authored and contributed to many drawing manuals, and also works as a lecturer at Nihon Kogauin College.
Tsubura Kadomaru has always loved drawing and sketching, and in middle and high school was the head of the school's art club. She protected the club, that had become a manga study group and Gundam get-together, and its members, raising creators who now work in the game and anime industry. She studied oil painting in the Faculty of Fine Arts of the Tokyo University of the Arts at a time when film studies and contemporary art were thriving. She has authored, edited, and conceived dozens of drawing manuals.

domain: artistic


The National Society of Collegiate Scholars elevates and recognizes the top 20 percent of students through its more than 300 chapters. ASPR counsels NSCS on strategy, messaging, media outreach and its community college initiative.
NSCS has enjoyed a significantly higher level of awareness and visibility thanks to new connections made to Huffington Post and an innovative outreach effort during its Houston summit.
ASPR helped secure Daniel Hernandez, Jr., as a speaker; Hernandez was the intern who saved the life of Rep. Gabby Giffords in 2011. Hernandez led NSCS Scholars in a CPR training that attracted reporters interested to this moving story: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=atMZCbrjgAI
Overall, NSCS boosts U.S. efforts to increase the percentage of Americans with college degrees through its chapter activities and scholarships.


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In my experience, many artistic triumphs come in a flash. They aren't labored over and they come together organically, with a short time span between their inception and completion.
In my opinion, truly creative individuals, though they have the skills to create masterpieces over time, also have the ability to make something meaningful, given little time or materials.
This is true of Swiss Surrealist artist Méret Oppenheim (1913-1985). At age 23, she created what is now known as the most important Surrealist object, Le Déjeuner en Fourrure (Luncheon in Fur).
According to the record of Art History, Oppenheim was dining with Picasso in Paris when she showed him the design for a bracelet lined with fur. Picasso responded that she could line anything with fur, "even this tea cup and saucer", and thus, Déjeuner came to be.
Along with artists like Marcel Duchamp, Max Ernst, and Andre Bréton, Oppenheim championed the Surrealist idea of psychic automatism and Freudian fetishism, covering or juxtaposing everyday objects with fur.
These works, which have been categorized as "dis/agreeable", challenge the viewer to think about what it would feel like to use them, and creates a Freudian bridge between the fetish object and the everyday object.
To evoke the Surrealist objects of Oppenheim, I centered an outfit around a vintage fur jacket and added a few tonal pieces with a bright yellow skirt reminiscent of the above work, Squirrel.
I'm wearing a vintage scarf, vintage fur, thrifted cashmere sweater, vintage leather mini bag, vintage skirt, gifted pavé cocktail ring, Betsey Johnson wool tights, Gold Toe socks, Chloe sunglasses, and leather Marni heels.
There are still a few more days left to enter my $35 CSN stores giveaway! Just follow Artfully Awear via Google Friend Connect, Bloglovin, Twitter, or Facebook and leave a comment on this post.
[Oppenheim images from drawclose.com, chilloutpoint.com, welcomenotations.com, and chilloutpoint.com, respectively.]


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Step right into the vibrant world of Ilimecomix, where laughter and imagination collide in the most delightful way! This beloved comic strip has stood the test of time, captivating readers for generations with its clever humor and endearing characters. As one of the oldest comic strips still in existence, Ilimecomix holds a special place in the hearts of both young and old alike. So buckle up as we embark on a journey through its fascinating history, explore its charming characters, dive into the hilarious strips themselves, discover how to read them with ease, and uncover where you can immerse yourself in this timeless treasure trove. Get ready to embark on an adventure that will leave you grinning from ear to ear!
What is Ilimecomix?
Ilimecomix, a name that brings smiles to faces and laughter to hearts. But what exactly is Ilimecomix? At its core, Ilimecomix is a long-running comic strip that has been captivating readers since its inception. Created by the talented mind of an artist with boundless creativity, this comic strip has become a cherished part of popular culture.
At first glance, Ilimecomix may seem like just another set of drawings on paper. However, it’s so much more than that! It’s a portal into a world where imagination reigns supreme and everyday situations are brought to life with wit and charm.
Ilimecomix serves as both entertainment and escape from the mundanity of everyday life. With each panel expertly crafted, it effortlessly weaves together humor, relatability, and social commentary in bite-sized doses.
The magic lies in how Ilimecomix manages to capture the essence of human emotions within its simplistic yet expressive illustrations. From the highs and lows of love to the hilarity of mundane mishaps, these strips resonate with readers on a deep level.
So whether you’re seeking a quick chuckle or looking for something deeper that touches your soul, Ilimecomix is there to take you on an extraordinary journey through its delightful panels. Get ready to embark on an adventure filled with laughter and joy as you delve into the wonderful world of Ilimecomix!
The History of Ilimecomix
Ilimecomix has a rich and fascinating history that spans several decades. It all began in the early 1950s, when its creator, Harold Ilime, first introduced the world to these beloved comic strips. Ilime was a talented artist with a knack for storytelling, and his unique style quickly captured the hearts of readers.
In those early days, Ilimecomix appeared in various newspapers and magazines across the country. The strips covered a wide range of topics, from everyday situations to political commentary. One thing that set Ilimecomix apart was its ability to tackle serious subjects with humor and wit.
As time went on, Ilime continued to create new characters and storylines that kept readers coming back for more. Some of the most popular characters include Charlie Catnip, an adventurous feline with a penchant for mischief; Penny Pigeon, a wise-cracking bird who always has something witty to say; and Max Mouse, a lovable rodent known for his mischievous antics.
Over the years, Ilimecomix has evolved alongside changing societal norms and trends. The artwork became more detailed and vibrant while maintaining its signature charm. The themes explored grew deeper as well – addressing issues such as social justice, environmentalism, and mental health.
Today, Ilimecomix continues to entertain audiences both young and old through various mediums including online platforms like social media websites where fans can easily access their favorite strips at any time!
The longevity of Ilimecomix is a testament to its enduring appeal. Generations have grown up reading these timeless comic strips filled with laughter,
and thought-provoking messages.
Whether you’re discovering it for the first time or revisiting your childhood favorites,
Ilimecomix remains an influential force in the world of comics!
The Characters of Ilimecomix
The Characters of Ilimecomix are a diverse and lovable bunch! Each character brings their own unique personality and quirks to the comic strip. Let’s take a closer look at some of the main characters that have captured readers’ hearts over the years.
First up, we have Oliver, the witty and mischievous protagonist of Ilimecomix. With his trademark fedora hat and quick wit, Oliver is always getting himself into hilarious situations. Whether he’s trying to impress his crush or outsmarting his arch-nemesis, his adventures are sure to keep you entertained!
Next, we have Emily, Oliver’s best friend and partner in crime. She is known for her intelligence and resourcefulness. Emily often finds herself untangling Oliver’s messes while providing sage advice along the way. Her unwavering loyalty makes her an invaluable member of the Ilimecomix crew.
Then there’s Maxine, the eccentric inventor who brings a touch of chaos to every storyline. With her wild experiments and unpredictable inventions, Maxine adds an element of surprise to each strip. You never know what she’ll come up with next!
Last but not least is Charlie, the lovable pet dog who has stolen everyone’s hearts with his adorable antics. From stealing socks to chasing squirrels in the park, Charlie provides plenty of laughs throughout Ilimecomix.
In conclusion (sorry!), these dynamic characters are what make Ilimecomix so enduringly popular among readers young and old alike. Their relatable personalities and humorous escapades ensure that fans will continue following their adventures for many more years to come!
The strips themselves
The strips themselves are the heart and soul of Ilimecomix. Each strip is a snapshot into the lives of the characters, filled with humor, wit, and sometimes a touch of sarcasm. The art style is simple yet expressive, allowing readers to easily connect with the emotions and actions of the characters.
One unique aspect of Ilimecomix is its ability to tackle a wide range of topics. From everyday situations like getting stuck in traffic or dealing with annoying coworkers, to deeper issues such as love, friendship, and personal growth – no topic is off-limits for these lovable characters.
What sets Ilimecomix apart from other comic strips is its ability to deliver clever punchlines and unexpected twists within just a few panels. It’s amazing how much depth can be packed into those short snippets! Whether you’re looking for a quick laugh or something thought-provoking, there’s always something for everyone in these strips.
The dialogue between characters feels natural and relatable. It’s almost like eavesdropping on real conversations between friends or family members. This authenticity adds an extra layer of enjoyment to each strip.
Ilimecomix has also evolved over time. While some aspects remain consistent – such as the quirky personalities of the characters – new themes and storylines have been introduced to keep things fresh and exciting for long-time readers.
It’s clear that Ilimecomix has stood the test of time due to its engaging storytelling, relatable characters, and ability to bring laughter into our lives one panel at a time! So grab your favorite beverage (and maybe some popcorn) because once you start reading these addictive comic strips, you won’t want to stop!
How to read Ilimecomix
How to read Ilimecomix
Ready to dive into the world of Ilimecomix? Here’s a quick guide on how to get started and fully enjoy these timeless comic strips.
First off, find a cozy spot with good lighting. Whether it’s your favorite armchair or a sunny corner of your local café, having the right atmosphere can enhance your reading experience.
Next, take your time to absorb each panel. Ilimecomix is known for its intricate artwork and subtle details that add depth to the story. Don’t rush through; let yourself get lost in the illustrations.
As you read, pay attention to the dialogue between characters. The witty banter and clever wordplay are trademarks of Ilimecomix and will bring a smile to your face.
Don’t be afraid to embrace the quirky humor and unique storytelling style of Ilimecomix. It may take some getting used to if you’re unfamiliar with this genre, but soon enough, you’ll be laughing out loud at the antics of its lovable characters.
If possible, try reading several strips in one sitting. This allows you to immerse yourself fully in the narrative arc and appreciate any recurring themes or running jokes throughout multiple strips.
Don’t forget that comics are meant for enjoyment! So relax, have fun, and let yourself be transported into the wonderful world of Ilimecomix!
Remember: there’s no right or wrong way to read these comic strips – just go with what feels natural for you. Happy reading!
Where to find Ilimecomix
Where to find Ilimecomix?
If you’re a fan of classic comic strips and are looking to dive into the world of Ilimecomix, you’ll be delighted to know that it is still available for readers today. The internet has made it easier than ever to access this beloved strip.
One of the best places to start your search is on the official Ilimecomix website. Here, you can explore archives dating back decades and catch up on all the latest adventures of your favorite characters. The website also offers a convenient subscription service, allowing you to receive new strips directly in your inbox.
In addition to the official website, many online platforms and social media channels feature Ilimecomix. You can follow their official accounts on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram for regular updates and sneak peeks at upcoming storylines.
For those who prefer physical copies or want a more tangible reading experience, local comic book stores often carry collections of Ilimecomix strips. These stores are great places not only for finding older issues but also for connecting with fellow fans who share your love for this timeless strip.
Furthermore, libraries may have copies available that you can borrow or read onsite if you prefer a quiet space surrounded by other comic enthusiasts.
Whether you choose digital or traditional formats, there are plenty of options available when it comes to accessing Ilimecomix. So grab a cup of coffee (or tea) and immerse yourself in the delightful world created by ilimemaker!
Ilimecomix is truly a remarkable comic strip that has stood the test of time. With its rich history dating back to 1945, it has captivated readers for generations. The lovable characters and engaging storylines have made Ilimecomix a beloved part of popular culture.
Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to the world of Ilimecomix, there are many ways to enjoy this classic comic strip. From reading the original strips in newspapers and magazines to exploring digital archives online, there’s something for everyone.
So why not take a trip down memory lane and dive into the wonderful world of Ilimecomix? Discover the humor, excitement, and heartwarming moments that have made this comic strip so enduring. Join millions of fans around the world who continue to be enchanted by these timeless characters.
Ilimecomix may be one of the oldest comic strips still in existence, but its charm and appeal remain as fresh as ever. So grab your favorite beverage, find a cozy spot, and immerse yourself in the delightful adventures brought to life through those iconic black-and-white panels.
Remember: when it comes to Ilimecomix, laughter is guaranteed!

domain: library


Panduit cable compression connector cover Product Details
Made of high impact plastic to provide high impact strength and 360° inspections of crimped connection to assure the crimp is complete and the correct die was used.
Incorporate dual self-latching spring loaded latches and supplied with two Panduit UL 94 V-0 cable ties to allow for easy snap-on assembly and ensure covers are secured.
Each cover half supports installation information labels inside plastic retainer strips to allow labels to be viewed on either side of cover and to protect labels from being removed.
Product Type: Cable compression connector cover
Product Material: Plastic
Width: 1.4 in
Depth: 4.5 in
Height: 1.2 in
Features: Flame retardant
Compliant Standards: CSA, RoHS, UL 94 V-0, cULus
Manufactured by: Panduit
Mfg Part No: CLRCVR1-1
( Length:0, Width:0, Depth:0)
Shipping Weight: 0.0500 pound(s)
Click here for full warranty and support information
- Panduit logos are registered trademarks of Panduit. All others trademarks and copyrights mentioned herein are the property of their respective owners.


There is a new option to consider for business-class satellite internet connectivity: low earth orbit (LEO) technology. Starlink is currently the most broadly available global solution for this high-speed, low-latency broadband. It’s innovative LEO technology is a game changer for businesses who rely on satellite service for high-speed internet. For organizations who struggle with latency using old school geostationary (GEO) satellite connectivity, Starlink provides a viable alternative.
Beyond the limits of physical connections
The pathways from most homes and businesses to the internet are through cables. Those cables may be coaxial, copper, or fiber, but they are physical lines connecting that building to the Internet. Despite all the innovation and advances over the past decade, an astounding number of rural businesses struggle with reliable and performant network access. Sixty-six percent of rural small businesses say poor internet or cell phone connectivity negatively impacts their business. This issue now receives more attention as more people shift to remote work, wherever they reside.
“Old school” geostationary satellite connectivity
For over 20 years, GEO satellite technology has been available in North America. It provides broadband connectivity to most places that can see the sky. Generally sold under the brands Exede, ViaSat, and HughesNet, it continues to be a lifeline for people in rural areas who have no other provider options. However, the service can be expensive, and performance is inferior to landline options available in more densely populated areas. This can mean slower downloads and VPNs, poor video conferencing quality, and spotty streaming service.
For providers, it takes a lot of investment and work to make even this level of service available: The satellite dishes for Exede customers in the Americas likely point up at Viasat-2, a 14,000 pound satellite that launched in 2017 after taking 40 months to build. That one device cost $600 million.
The drawbacks of GEO Satellite
Connection anywhere you can see the sky is great, but GEO satellite service clients do have to contend with some limitations. In particular, latency. The Viasat satellites are in orbit 22,000 miles away. That means every bit of traffic has to travel a total of 44,000 miles up and back. The result is latency of around 600 ms – over half a second.
Viasat has improved on this through creative TCP optimizations in their platform, but those optimizations don’t help tunneled traffic like VPNs and SD-WAN, or other non-TCP traffic like most VoIP and video. Since real time calls take two-way communication, the high latency makes a Zoom participant delayed over one second in conversation. It requires a lot of patience to have a meeting when everyone must wait for those pauses.
Enter Starlink, LEO connectivity
The newcomer, and seeming game-changer, for those seeking a satellite connection is Starlink. Starlink leads the way in the LEO space. LEO is a different approach and a different type of connection.
Instead of a single giant geostationary satellite 22,000 miles away, Starlink utilizes a swarm of thousands (as of this writing 2,112) of smaller, relatively cheaper satellites. Starlink launches a new batch of satellites every week or so. They are less than 1/20th the size of ViaSat-2 (around 650 pounds) and create a constellation of satellites across the sky. The antennas at both the service location and at the ground station where the constellation is connected into the Internet switch between the satellites as they orbit past, just like a cell phone in a car zooming down the highway switches between towers as seamlessly as possible.
Key to reducing latency, the Starlink satellites are only around 200 miles up. That is 1/100th the distance to the GEO orbits. The result is low latency of around 40-60 milliseconds – a number quite similar to wired broadband in urban areas.
Starlink and Amazon’s Project Kuiper are promising new technologies. Perhaps we can look forward to a future when connectivity is not tied to physical wires. It could create opportunities and lower the cost of internet connectivity worldwide.
Our founder Joel Mulkey often works from his rural home where terrestrial connectivity options are sub-optimal (only very slow DSL is available), so he is always on the lookout for ways to improve his connectivity. He recently unboxed and installed his Starlink “Dishy” terminal, which he will connect to his Bigleaf router and mix with connections from a fixed wireless provider, 4G LTE, and a GEO satellite service. Check out his video on the results from that installation.
What are the concerns with Starlink?
LEO connectivity is complex and unproven. If you are looking to lean on Starlink for critical connectivity, it is healthy to be suspicious of its reliability. Can it perform as claimed? While Starlink is aiming to provide 1 Gbps, current customers are getting between 40 and 150 Mbps down. And when will they work out the kinks? On a weekend in April 2022, Starlink users across the globe experienced extensive outages that the company has not explained. The Starlink support page is sparse and not particularly informative.
Using the best of Starlink in any situation
For the lower latency and potential throughput increase that Starlink provides over the older GEO technologies, getting it for his rural location is hugely appealing for Joel. But as a sole source of connectivity, he can’t tolerate any unexpected outages.
“This is a place that Bigleaf really shines. I gain all the benefits of this new technology without being subjected to the drawbacks. Bigleaf will optimize my use between Starlink and my other connections in real-time, insulating me from any outages or brownouts. Plus, I get a static public IP address block that works over all of my wireless circuits.” Joel said.
Bigleaf and Starlink applied
Bigleaf allows the connection of up to 4 circuits. Along with rural locations that lack options, a LEO satellite link could be valuable for any facility seeking a redundant connection that does not use the shared routes of many physical service providers. If a backhoe takes out the cabling to the building, Starlink would be unaffected.
With Bigleaf, a “backup” connection does not sit dormant awaiting an emergency. Unlike a traditional failover-only circuit, Bigleaf’s AI utilizes all connections simultaneously and with their same-IP failover, can automatically route traffic to the best available circuit if one fails. Even existing video conferences continue without dropping.
Bigleaf’s ability to automatically monitor your circuit conditions, intelligently load balance, and make routing and QoS changes in real time further adds to its ability to deliver performant connectivity. In the instance of a rural site without any ideal broadband options, users can combine a more reliable but lower bandwidth connection with a less reliable but higher bandwidth account to get the best of both.
In short, Bigleaf can monitor the health of satellite connections in real time, along with the other circuits being used, and route the identified traffic types down the respective circuits that will deliver the best application performance. This allows a user to optimize the circuit conditions of the LEO satellite path even if there is high latency or jitter.
Even if you don’t choose Starlink, you can mix a 4G or DSL network connection (typically faster and fairly reliable) with a GEO satellite connection (available almost anywhere) and real-time apps would automatically use the lower latency network while file transfers would use the larger bandwidth connection.
To further support the use of Starlink, Bigleaf has recently included a preconfigured LEO satellite setting. Site operators can connect their Starlink base station to the Bigleaf router and quickly configure it to recognize the LEO satellite circuit
Starlink won’t be the last innovative network access technology
Starlink is an exciting option that was hard to believe possible just a few years ago. Many people are holding their breath to see what 5G capabilities will come to the market. One thing is certain: Technology will continue to offer new ways to connect us. As new options grow and refine, Bigleaf allows them to be utilized to their best now.
Learn more about how we can do so for your business by requesting a free demo today.


The governorship candidate of the Labour Party (LP) in Lagos State, Mr. Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivor has warned that supporters of the party would resist any act of intimidation on election day.
Rhodes-Vivor who spoke in Lagos, yesterday, said: “Our victory is for the people of Lagos and it has set up the foundation upon which we can change the status quo and begin to build a better Lagos moving forward.
“At this moment, I feel your despair, frustrations and anger at this system which callously tries to subvert our will and makes us feel like our votes don’t matter. Do not despair my people.
Our votes actually count and it has retired some members of the status quo already.
“I have also heard about the threats they make to your livelihood, the intimidation on your businesses and the violence they have promised to unleash on you.
“Stand strong for I will stand firm with you through this all and together we shall prevail and after we achieve victory, none of them will dare you.
“We must keep the fire burning and even if they attempt to cower us, they cannot kill our hope. Our hope has kept us going in the face of intimidation, thuggery and suppression.”
He stressed that the people’s hope for a better Lagos and a better Nigeria, “has brought us this far. It has set us apart in this electoral cycle. I appeal to you to reach into your innermost recesses and draw upon strength so that we can emerge victorious and actualise the new Lagos we dream of. We are on the threshold of victory and must not give in to self-doubt or primordial fears.”


The Federal Government is today expected to announce that it is delaying the introduction of its emissions trading scheme by a year.
The ABC understands that Prime Minister Kevin Rudd is about to announce that the scheme will be delayed until 2011, while the range of proposed cuts will be increased to 5 to 25 per cent of 2000 levels by 2020.
The ABC also understands that the scheme will be changed to ensure that efforts made by households to reduce emissions will be factored in.
The scheme had been criticised for not taking household reductions into account, with some arguing any cuts by individuals would merely allow heavy polluters more leeway.
The Government is also understood to be considering other changes, including a lower cap on the price of carbon.
But it is not clear if the changes will be enough to win the Senate votes needed to have the scheme passed.
The Government had promised to have its Carbon Pollution Reduction Scheme begin next year and was due to introduce legislation into Parliament in June.
It was also committed to cutting emissions by 5 to 15 per cent of 2000 levels by 2020.
The Federal Opposition and some sectors of industry have been calling for the scheme to be delayed for at least a year.
The Greens have also been unhappy with the scheme, saying the emissions reduction target is far too low.


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Located on the grounds of Hawkesdene (www dot hawkesdene dot com), at 381 Phillips Creek Rd in Andrews NC 28901. Cherokee is a 3-bedroom, 2-bath cottage on a hillside with a great view of the mountains. With one king size bedroom, two queen size bedrooms and a queen-size sleeper sofa, the cottage sleeps 6 to 8 guests. Cherokee Cottage also accommodates two additional persons in the adjacent 1-bedroom, 1-bath Cherokee Studio.
Cherokee has a fully equipped kitchen including all cooking utensils, flatware and dishes. The living room features a large stone fireplace, pull-out sofa, 42" LCD TV with cable, central heat & air, inside and outside dining areas and a laundry room stocked with a washer and dryer, iron and ironing board. The cottage bedrooms are equipped with 22" LCD TVs, super comfortable beds, luxury linens and pillows, throw blankets, an iPod dock with alarm clock and private labeled bottled water. Amenities include a hairdryer and the Molton Brown collection of eco-friendly hair, bath and body products.
The Cherokee Studio is a 1-bedroom, 1-bathroom free-standing suite that extends the capacity of the adjoining Cherokee Cottage. With one king-size bed, the studio sleeps 2. The Cherokee Studio has an open floor plan with a king size bed, dresser, mini-refrigerator, 42” LCD TV with cable, central heat and air, iron and ironing board. There is an outside deck with two adirondack chairs. The studio also includes super luxury linens, an iPod dock with alarm clock and private labeled bottled water. Amenities includes a hairdryer and the Molton Brown collection of eco-friendly hair, bath and body products. The adjacent Cherokee Cottage kitchen and laundry room amenities are shared with Cherokee Studio guests.
The Cherokee Cottage and Studio are part of the Hawkesdene Estate, a 36-acre private residential village adjoining the Nantahala National Forest consisting of luxury homes, buildings and manicured grounds enhanced by the rushing waters of Phillips Creek. please visit our web site at www dot hawkesdene dot com.
Invite your family and friends as there are other cottages available for rent on the estate. Please inquiry.

domain: travel


Bayo Oyewale Lokoja
A Chief Magistrate Court sitting in Lokoja has warned a lawyer, Mr Julius Elukpo to abide by his bail conditions or face the full wrath of the law.
The presiding Chief Magistrate Mr Seidu Hussain gave this warning in Lokoja on Thursday.
Hussein who was reacting to a submission made by the counsel to Prosecution Counsel, Mr Theophilus Oteme against Elukpo who is currently facing a one count charge of forgery before the court.
Oteme called the attention of the court to a publication made by the accused on the social media in which he cast aspersions on the integrity of the police and some individuals that have connection with the case.
The prosecution counsel told the court that Elukpo’s action was a clear breach of his bail conditions , asking the court to call him to order.
Oteme also urged the court to prevail on the accused to honor police invitation anytime he is called upon to come shed light on the allegation of bribery he leveled against police and other issues he raised in the online publication.
The counsel later told the court that he will be seeking for an amendment to an earlier application already submitted before the court.
The legal counsel to the accused , Mr Muizdeen Abdulahi did not object to the move but insisted that the amendment be made formally.
Elukpo who is a legal practitioner and the Chairman of Kogi State Elders Forum was charged with forgery before the court by the state Commissioner of police.
The accused was alleged to have forged signatures of three persons to a write a petition to the Minister of Health on March 22, 2017.
The case has been adjourned for hearing till April 4,
Chief Magistrate Hussein however warned Elukpo against infringing on his bail conditions or he will be forced to revoke the bail.


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Whatsapp us on +91- 9599090487 and tell us what your furry friend requires and we’ll get your order delivered. Would give frightened canine and cats the care and remedy they should get better. On Deck” may additionally be used for different animals who can’t go home just but, but they will meet potential adopters who can place an adoption maintain if it’s a match! Colored) paper indicate the animal shouldn’t be at the moment obtainable for adoption (these animals also don’t seem on the net website).
Tippy will get along well with different canines and would not thoughts sharing her eternally dwelling with one other canine. Fill out an adoption profile , and we’ll have it ready for you while you get right here! If you’re looking for a particular canine and maybe don’t see it here, please call, as we are always taking in new canine and perhaps the one you want simply hasn’t made it to the web site yet.
He should be adopted within the Central Florida area so as to complete his pet follow-up care – – neuter and microchip – – included in his adoption donation quantity of $500. Not the entire canine are available for viewing or adoption immediately so ensure to plan to come out when the dog you have an interest in is obtainable.
Please click on the picture of the dog that you’re all in favour of to view their particular adoption date and adoption donation. Adopting a pet from the Pet Adoption and Protection Center is a low cost, personally satisfying different to purchasing a pet from a pet retailer.
Adoption charges embody all photographs, a spay or neuter, microchip & registration, a complimentary veterinary examination (at a listing of participating veterinarians), deworming, a bag of Science Food plan food, heartworm testing (for canine 6 months or older), heartworm and flea prevention.

domain: pet


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National FDU poll: OK to pray at public meetings
The majority of Americans embrace the concept of “one nation, under God,” according to a recent national survey conducted by the Fairleigh Dickinson University PublicMind Poll.
Seventy-three percent of the 883 registered voters responding to the poll agreed with the statement, “Prayer at public meetings is fine as long as the public officials are not favoring some beliefs over others.” Less than a quarter of the respondents — 23 percent — agreed with the statement, “Public meetings shouldn’t have any prayers at all because prayers by definition suggest one belief over another.”
“This has always been a praying nation, despite its very secular Constitution,” said Peter J. Woolloy, professor of comparative politics at FDU. “People generally see generic prayer as harmless, if not uplifting, not as something that is oppressive.”
Rev. Neill Tolboom of Morristown United Methodist Church said, “I believe it is appropriate, especially if you are only talking about prayer, and not expounding on one faith over another. All you are doing is evoking help from a creator, or God, and acknowledging that there may be something greater than us, a spiritual realm. Maybe the prayer is for someone who is sick, or you are just praying for guidance. What could be wrong with that?”
A news release about the poll referenced a pending U.S. Supreme Court ruling on the 2008 case of Town of Greece v. Galloway, which was sparked by the practice in the New York town of Greece to bring in a rotating group of clergy members to offer prayers at council meetings, the overwhelming majority of them representing Christian faiths.
“An overwhelming number of Americans are upset by two things — not being allowed to pray, and someone insisting that only their prayer is legitimate,” said Msgr. Herbert K. Tillyer, pastor of St. Peter the Apostle church in Parsippany.
“I know myself that over the years, I have asked to (offer prayer) at a number of public meetings, and I know of a number of clergy from other denominations have done that as well,” he added. “Personally, they have been among the most uplifting moments of my life. I am very much in favor of prayer at meetings as long as the mayor and the council are comfortable with that.”
Prayer at public meetings received support from individuals pledged to both major political parties.
Republicans favored public-meeting prayer by a margin of 88 percent to 10 percent, while Democrats favored it 60 percent to 36 percent. The survey showed no significant statistical difference between men and women, whites and non-whites, or age groups.
The poll was part of PublicMind’s Project on Popular Constitutionalism, which is designed to assess voter attitudes about the Constitution and its competing values.
The survey was conducted by phone between Dec. 9 and 15.
William Westhoven: 973-428-6627; wwesthoven@ dailyrecord.com

domain: news


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Cryptocurrency is a sensitive topic in Venezuela and current policies’ directions are somewhat contradictory. Mining crypto was illegal not too long ago but now somewhat encouraged. Crypto Mining was banned in Venezuela in 2017, and as of Jan 24, 2018, people in Venezuela were mining for blockchain at huge personal risk of being raided by the police and arrested. (Source). People were arrested on spurious grounds such as “energy theft”, and officials have confiscated some mining rigs and then started using it themselves to mine for blockchain. (Source)
However, the government did a sudden about-turn in 2018. Due to the failed economy, cryptocurrency is one of the only things allowing people to maintain their incomes. Recently, President Madruo announced plans for a national cryptocurrency, the Petro, which is perhaps the reason for the about-turn shift in policy. In March 2018, the Venezuelan government called for citizens to build cryptocurrency mining farms throughout the country and also established a mining program which the president hopes will attract a million people. (Source). The government has also started a school in Caracas to teach about cryptocurrencies and is moving to set up mining farms in Venezuelan universities. (Source).
Anyone mining for crypto is required to register with the government. People are divided about whether or not they trust the government’s intentions and it seems that many are deciding to go underground. (Source). Despite this, seizures of mining equiment have been reported as late as April 2018 (Source).
President Maduro has decreed that the Petro will become legal tender for all transactions involving government institutions within 120 days of the passing of the measure through the Constituent Assembly on April 9, 2018. The Constituent Assembly is a parliament convened by Maduro to rewrite the constitution and it quickly gave itself legislative powers, currently holding de facto power to write legislation and replacing the opposition-led National Assembly which Maduro dissolved in 2017. Many pundits and rating sites are calling the Petro currency a scam despite the government pushing its use. The government also set up a National Cryptocurrency Treasury to manage and regulate all crypto assets as well as a national virtual asset exchange. It has also already approved the Petro for Venezuelan tax payments. (Source 1, Source 2). A news agency reports that, “ “According to the document approved by the Constituent Assembly, President Nicolás Maduro will have the power to regulate the issuance, organization, and operation of the Petro.” (Source).
Given this climate, it is impossible to see where the status of crypto will end up in Venezuela. Although blockchain activities are no longer expressly banned, engaging in them can still get one in trouble. Crypto is exploding in the country, with many people seeing it as a way out of a failed economy, however, the legal implications of this explosion has yet to fully manifest.
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domain: finance


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Nancy and Kelcey Diemert receive the "Spirit of Montana Award"
July 26, 2023
Montana Gov. Greg Gianforte was in Blaine County last week as he continued his annual "56 County Tour," the third such tour since becoming governor. On the tour the governor will make stops in all 56 counties throughout the state. Explaining the "why" of the tour the governor said, "The best and most important part of my job is meeting with Montanans where they live and work."
Last Wednesday he stopped in Blaine County to visit the tribal-owned Little River Trading Post in Harlem and then met with the Fort Belknap Tribal Council. From there the governor headed west for a stop at the Chinoo...

domain: geography


text:
The "American Idol" 2012 summer tour recently took its final stop in the Philippines, where runner-up Jessica Sanchez's warm welcome was followed up with an amazing honor. According to GMA News, Sanchez was lauded by Filipino fans and even received the news that the country was planning on honoring the 17-year-old songstress with recognition on the nation's "Walk of Fame" in Quezon City.
Sanchez landed in Manila, Philippines this week (along with her fellow Top 10 "American Idol" season 11 finalists) for the first and only international stop on the "American Idol" summer tour. Sanchez (whose mother is Filipino) was extremely excited to perform for her Filipino fans. During a Top 10 finalist press conference, Sanchez beamed, "I've never been out of the country before. This is such a delight going to the Philippines and traveling out of the (US) for the first time. Out of the whole tour, this is the most special for me. My grandfather is here and my grandmother has traveled with us from the States. I definitely have lots of family here from Bataan. If I have any free time, I'd definitely go visit Bataan."
During the airing of "American Idol" season 11, Sanchez received much praise and support from her Filipino fan-base, even getting an endorsement from the nation's president, Benigno S. Aquino III.
Sanchez continued gushing her gratefulness during the Philippines press conference, stating - "Even while I was in the States, while I was in the show, like I heard they were voting crazy for me, like on Skype or Magic Jack... (Filipinos) have really been a big part of my success. I am definitely appreciative of them. That's why I'm excited to be here."
Jessica Sanchez Gets Much Love in the Philippines, leads to Jollibee Endorsement Deal
Upon hearing the news that her name would be added to the Filipino Walk of Fame, Sanchez said, "I'm surprised by this, I'm just like I can't even process this right now but that's definitely awesome. I would love to meet [the host of the project] someday and actually thank him personally."
The "American Idol" tour will hit the stage at Quezon City's Smart Araneta Coliseum on Friday, Sept. 21. Reports have it that Sanchez plans on remaining in the Philippines two more weeks to experience more of what the country has to offer.© 2018 Mstars News, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.


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I’ve had the pleasure of knowing artist Greg Montgomery and collaborating with him professionally for almost a decade, but his presence in my life dates back to the 1980s when I was a kid growing up in Saratoga County. Like many families, the Bouyea clan made annual appearances at Saratoga Race Course during the summertime, and our house’s decor featured several of Montgomery’s early entries in his now-famous Travers Stakes poster series, which has been going strong since 1986.
Montgomery’s Travers series has become so popular and coveted that it isn’t unusual to see the inaugural year’s poster commanding as much as $25,000 on the secondary market—if one of these gems becomes publicly available (for some reason my parents still refuse to pass that family heirloom along to me). Montgomery never imagined he’d even be a part of Travers or Saratoga lore. In fact, he admits he knew little about Thoroughbred racing or its traditions in the Spa City when he produced that first poster back in ’86. “I was studying at The College of Saint Rose in Albany and needed an idea for a project when I came across a small poster that was promoting something called the Travers Stakes,” says Montgomery. “I asked what it was, and the guy in the store went on and on about its history and how big of a deal it was. I thought that if it was so important it needed something significant to symbolize its relevance. Here I am almost 35 years later still doing these posters!”
A portion of Montgomery’s series highlights some of the more memorable moments from Travers past, including Holy Bull’s thrilling 1994 victory, Birdstone’s dash through the dark
in 2004, the unforgettable dead heat between Alpha and Golden Ticket in 2012 and Arrogate’s record-setting romp in 2016. Others hat-tip the serene, scenic splendor found
only at Saratoga Race Course: the iconic roofline, the historic paddock, the distinct infield gazebo, the legendary Oklahoma Training Track and Union Avenue’s horse crossing. “There’s so much beauty that’s distinctly Saratoga and vital to what I do each year,” Montgomery says. “Otherwise, it’s just horses on a track, and that can happen anywhere. Saratoga is one of a kind, which is what I try to convey.” I can’t wait for the next edition. Can you?


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Pumpkin seeds, also called Benefits of Pumpkin Seeds are a nutrient-dense superfood that is brimming with important minerals, vitamins, antioxidants, and good fats. These little seeds, which are sometimes disregarded and thrown away when carving pumpkins, have so many health advantages that you should include them in your diet. We’ll go over the many benefits of pumpkin seeds in this post, along with the reasons you should think about include them in your regular diet.
- Rich Source of Nutrients:
Pumpkin seeds are a great source of important nutrients that are necessary for good health and wellbeing in general. They are a great source of minerals including magnesium, zinc, iron, and potassium, as well as protein, fiber, healthy fats, and vitamins like vitamin K, vitamin E, and B vitamins. You can achieve optimal health and fulfil your daily nutritional needs by include pumpkin seeds in your diet.
- Benefits for Heart Health:
Due to its high concentration of heart-healthy elements including potassium, magnesium, and good fats, pumpkin seeds are well known for having heart-healthy qualities. By supporting cardiovascular health, decreasing cholesterol, and controlling blood pressure, these nutrients help minimize the risk of heart disease and stroke. Furthermore supporting heart health are the antioxidants in pumpkin seeds, which aid in defending against oxidative stress and inflammation.
3. Boosts the Immune System:
The body’s defenses against infections and disorders can be strengthened and strengthened by the immune-boosting qualities of pumpkin seeds. Specifically, zinc is essential for both immunological response and wound healing. Including pumpkin seeds in your diet can help you make sure you’re getting enough zinc and other minerals that support the immune system, which will improve the resilience and performance of your immune system.
- Encourages Digestive Health:
Dietary fiber, which is necessary for regular bowel motions and digestive health, is found in good amounts in pumpkin seeds. By providing food for good gut bacteria, fiber aids in satiety, avoids constipation, and supports a healthy gut microbiota. Furthermore, phytosterols—compounds found in pumpkin seeds—have been demonstrated to enhance gut health by lowering inflammation and enhancing nutrient absorption.
- Promotes Bone Health:
Minerals like zinc, phosphorus, and magnesium are abundant in pumpkin seeds and are necessary for keeping strong, healthy bones. These minerals are essential for the development, strength, and density of bones, which helps fend off osteoporosis and fractures. By including pumpkin seeds in your diet, you can lower your chance of developing bone-related illnesses and promote bone health.
- Improves Skin and Hair Health:
Pumpkin seeds include vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that can help maintain healthy skin and hair. Particularly well-known for its ability to nourish the skin and guard against oxidative damage and early ageing is vitamin E. In addition, pumpkin seeds’ zinc and iron contents promote strong hair development and guard against hair loss.
Pumpkin seeds are a nutritional powerhouse that are rich in important nutrients and substances that support health and wellbeing in general. Pumpkin seeds are a delightful and adaptable addition to any diet, offering a variety of health benefits such as immune system support, digestive system health, bone health, and skin and hair health. Pumpkin seeds are a tasty and easy method to increase your nutritional intake and gain the benefits of optimal health. They can be eaten as a snack, added to salads, cereal, baked goods, smoothies and trail mixes. Therefore, the next time you carve a pumpkin, consider using the seeds’ amazing health benefits for a happier, healthier you!

domain: food


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Plastic Sprengeri Grass Hanging Bush in Green 9" Wide 30" Long
DetailsLooking for artificial hanging greenery bushes? Check out this beautiful plastic sprengeri grass hanging bush in green that is perfect for indoors or outdoors. Use this luscious grass bush to give your outdoor hanging baskets vibrant color and a natural look!
- 9" Wide x 30" Long

domain: design


THE RICK RAY BAND (Into The Hands Of Sinners) CD
I was totally overwhelmed by the amount of informations I received about Rick Ray with this CD. This mysterious guitarist had not only issued about 26 years albums since 1999. He had toured in the past with bands like The Lizards and Frank Marino & Mahogany Rush and when I surfed through the net, searching for more about him, I was again blown away by the information overload. This is his newest release on Neurosis Records, and though I'd listen very often to the CD, it's still hard to define his style. One thing is for sure, this man is an excellent guitarplayer with an unusual style and sound. The base of his sound his definitely heavy rock and prog, but here's so much more to find. Sometimes, the band throws in a bit of Hawkwind or comes up with instrumental acoustic themes or 12 bar blues turns into jazz. That sounds wicked and it is.
But not only Rick Ray is a great talent. Three of the five musicians are excellent singers, too, while Phil Noch is only singing on four of the here included twelve tracks. The music got a free floating spirit and Rick's guitar is doing a lot of crazy things. He plays all kind of stuff, which still leaves me speechless. Smoking power-chords change into mesmerizing jazzy guitar-parts, where his instruments tells inexhaustible electric stories, and although I'm not the greatest fan of endless guitar-solos, Rick Rays playing knows to impress and entertain in an unobtrusive way. And his playing is well integrated in the song. Every song got nice and interesting changes, and if I would describe all twelve songs to you, this review would become a neverending story. I better give you the advice, to check out the world of Rick Ray, if you're looking for something outstanding and special.


text:
Interstate and Foreign Transportation: Hearings Before the Joint Committee on Interstate and Foreign Commerce, Congress of the United States, Sixty-fourth Congress, First Session, Pursuant to Public J. Res. 25, a Joint Resolution Creating a Joint Subcommittee from the Membership of the Senate Committee on Interstate Commerce and the House Committee on Interstate and Foreign Commerce to Investigate the Conditions Relating to Interstate and Foreign Commerce, Volumes 1-10
U.S. Government Printing Office, 1916 - Interstate commerce - 680 pages
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ADAMSON amount appear authority bank believe bill bonds capital carriers carry cent CHAIRMAN charge committee Congress consider consideration Constitution construction corporation cost course court created desire determine dividends earnings effect entire exercise existing facilities fact Federal Government fixed follows foreign gentlemen give hearing important incorporation increase Interstate Commerce Commission investment involved issue legislation limit lines matter means meet method miles necessary needs NEWLANDS operation organized ownership Pacific politics possible practically present President proper proposed protection question rail railroad railway railway company rates reasonable reference regard regulation represent respect result roads rule securities Senator CUMMINS Sims situation suggestion taxation Texas thing Thom tion traffic transportation understand Union United whole
Page 229 - And, in order to ascertain that value, the original cost of construction, the amount expended in permanent improvements, the amount and market value of its bonds and stock, the present as compared with the original cost of construction, the probable earning capacity of the property under particular rates prescribed by statute, and the sum required to meet operating expenses, are all matters for consideration, and are to be given such weight as may be just and right in each case.
Page 239 - The result is a conviction that the states have no power, by taxation or otherwise, to retard, impede, burden, or in any manner control the operations of the constitutional laws enacted by Congress to carry into execution the powers vested in the general government.
Page 112 - The power of creating a corporation, though appertaining to sovereignty, is not, like the power of making war, or levying taxes, or of regulating commerce, a great substantive and independent power, which cannot be implied as incidental to other powers, or used as a means of executing them. It is never the end for which other powers are exercised, but a means by which other objects are accomplished.
Page 469 - In the discussion of this question, the plaintiffs contended that a railroad company Is entitled to exact such charges for transportation as will enable It, at all times, not only to pay operating expenses, but also to meet the Interest regularly accruing upon all Its outstanding obligations, and justify a dividend upon all Its stock; and that to prohibit It from maintaining rates or charges for transportation adequate to all those ends will deprive It of Its property without due process of law,...
Page 115 - Recollecting the fundamental principle that the Constitution, laws, and treaties of the United States are the supreme law of the land, it seems to us almost absurd to contend that a power given to a person or corporation by the United States may be subjected to taxation by a State.
Page 114 - ... fact that they are agents, but upon the effect of the tax; that is, upon the question whether the tax does in truth deprive them of power to serve the government as they were intended to serve it, or does hinder the efficient exercise of their power. A tax upon their property has no such necessary effect. It leaves them free to discharge the duties they have undertaken to perform. A tax upon their operations is a direct obstruction to the exercise of Federal powers.
Page 112 - But since, in consequence of the expansion of the country, the multiplication of its products, and the invention of railroads and locomotion by steam, land transportation has so vastly increased, a sounder consideration of the subject has prevailed and led to the conclusion that Congress has plenary power over the whole subject.
Page 243 - ... a right, privilege or power of public concern, which ought not to be exercised by private individuals at their mere will and pleasure, but should be reserved for public control and administration, either by the government directly, or by public agents, acting under such conditions and regulations as the government may impose in the public interest, and for the public security.
Page 389 - Colony system of the New York, New Haven & Hartford, and the Boston & Maine railway systems, each of which controls several minor roads once independent.
Page 105 - ... compared with the original cost of construction, the probable earning capacity of the property under particular rates prescribed by statute, and the sum required to meet operating expenses, are all matters for consideration and are to be given such weight as may be just and right in each case. We do not say that there may not be other matters to be regarded in estimating the value of the property.

domain: law


text:
When Rock Band arrived on the PlayStation 2 a year ago it was a mere shell of its former next-gen self. Major features like World Tour mode, customizable characters, and downloadable content had been gutted from the package. Now the sequel, which is absolutely fantastic on Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, and Wii, has been kicked over to the PS2 again, and…it's still a bit gimped.
While World Tour mode is finally here, there is still no character creation or online functionality. The lack of online is understandable as the PS2 wasn't designed to spend a lot of time on the internet. But it is very disappointing to find the customization options missing as they have been one of the most engaging aspects of the game on other systems. When you create your character, name them, outfit them, design their tattoo, and finally name your band, you feel a sense of ownership in your accomplishments and the fans you earn. Here, that is denied the player. "You'll play with these stock characters and watch this generic performance video and like it," the game says to us.
A welcome new addition to Rock Band 2 is the Tour Challenge mode. These can be played either solo or as a band and are often tailored to specific instruments. Unfortunately, the Battle of the Bands (BotB) challenges that appear on other systems is not present. BotB is updated daily and allows players to compete against other bands online, but the lack of any online functionality here means PS2 players will have to do without. Leaderboards are here that will record your high scores, but they only read your local save file and are populated with phony names and scores (until you add your own, of course).
World Tour mode's presentation is really slick. From a bird's-eye view of the globe it feels like you're touring around the world through different gigs and cities. But if you just want to play a few tracks of your choice, you can now create your own setlist in Quickplay so you don't have to pick a new song after each performance. It's more user-friendly than the original.
The game's difficulty is balanced better than the first Rock Band. Guitar parts are more challenging and, for the experienced players, more fun to play now. But good news for casual gamers: songs can be switched to "no fail mode" so people can play without worrying about failing out during some insane solo. You can't progress through World Tour with this mode enabled, but it's nice to have the option for those that just want a pick-up-and-play experience.
Rock Band 2 ships with a really good mix of 84 songs on disc. From AC/DC to Beastie Boys to Beck to The Who -- any music lover will find plenty tracks here that they love. It's a great collection of tunes that spans all eras of rock.

domain: entertainment


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Hurricane Sandy's force uncovers Fire Island shipwreck: Not really bizarre
Nov 16, 2012 | Posted by: roboblogger | Full story: Examiner.com
Long lost wreckage was brought to the light of day thanks to Sandy. According to ABC News on Friday, the near-hurricane force winds of the storm uncovered a ship believed to have sank about ninety years ago.
Cool stuff. I wonder what else Hurricane Sandy unfolded?
Since: Feb 12
Commander Bunny - was that yours?
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PROTEQ Classic 3-layer 100% Cotton Mask with sewn-in melt-blown filter providing 95% filtration efficacy.
Available in 3 Sizes.
Nose Wire and Chin Cover provide a snug-fit on your face.
Comfortable and Elegant Look.
- %100 Cotton Inner & Outer Layer with an integrated filter (95% + BFE) *
- Water-repellent soft carbon fabric
- Adjustable Earloops
- Nose Wire
- Covers your chin and nose comfortably
- 3 Sizes
USE & CARE INSTRUCTIONS
- Wash before your first use
- Use the elastic ear straps to put your mask on and off
- Mold the stiff edge to the shape of your noise to fit the mask snugly on your face
- Store clean and used masks separately to avoid cross-contamination
- Hand wash with warm soapy water after each use and air dry for longer product life
- Do not dry clean
- Do not bleach
- Do not iron the ear straps
* While wearing a mask would protect the wearer to a degree, it does not claim to provide full protection.


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Strategic Energy Investment Fund Advisory Board
Strategic Energy Investment Advisory Board
The Strategic Energy Investment Advisory Board meets twice a year to review briefings on the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI) auctions. Proceeds from the RGGI CO2 allowance auctions are returned to member states and have been primarily invested in consumer benefit programs: energy efficiency, renewable energy, direct energy bill assistance, and other greenhouse gas reduction programs.
Board members disucss the quarterly RGGI auction results, the proposed fiscal year for the next year, possible program changes or legislative session review depending on the time of the meeting.
Strategic Energy Investment Fund (SEIF) is comprised of a variety of funding sources, the main source of proceeds is historically from Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI) auctions. However, in recent years non-RGGI funds sources have been representing an increasing percentage of the overall SEIF like a variety of merger settlements and other Public Service Commission orders.
Senate Bill 52 (2019) requires that the Maryland Energy Administration “shall hold at least four public meetings across the State... in the eastern, southern, central, and western parts of the State, respectively; and.. is encouraged to solicit input from all regions of the State…”
Strategic Energy Investment Advisory Board Meeting
Monday, January 6, 2020
to view presentations from the meeting
Current Board Memebers
Residential Customer Alland Leandre
Residential Customer Joseph Robert Pickens Ph.D.
Commercial Customer Daniel Beyrodt
Large Elecectric User Susan Corry
Electric Company Mark D. Case
Electric Co-op Jeffrey S. Shaw
Elecectric Supplier Edward Daniel Kenny
MD Env. Group Joanna Diamond Esq.
Renewable Electric Industry Jose A. Menendez
Appointed by Senate President Stephen S. Hershey, Jr.
Appointed by House Speaker Benjamin Brooks.
Ex officio (nonvoting):
Ben H. Grumbles, Secretary of the Environment;
Jason M. Stanek, Chair, Public Service Commission;
Paula M. Carmody, Esq., People's Counsel.
Below please find details from the four public meetings held in 2019:
October 11, 2019 Strategic Energy Investment Advisory
Board Listening Session
October 11, 2019 Listening Session Facebook Live Video
October 30, 2019 Strategic Energy Investment Advisory Board Listening Session
October 20, 2019 Listening Session Facebook Live Video
November 13, 2019 Strategic Energy Investment Advisory Board Listening Session
November 13, 2019 Listening Session Facebook Live Video
November 21, 2019 Strategic Energy Investment Advisory Board Listening Session
November 21, 2019 Listening Session Facebook Live Video
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SEIF 2019 Report
SEIF 2018 Report
SEIF 2017 Report
SEIF 2016 Report
SEIF 2015 Report
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