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The prologue to Crelrn's Bleach: Reemergence
The dirt path started turning to a deep brown from the rain that was beginning to lightly fall over it. Only gradually, though, as the path was sheltered by the colossal, ancient trees that it meandered its way through.
The primordial lake that the path made its home next to, however, wasn’t so fortunate and took the full brunt of the downpour, causing large ripples to form, disturbing and distorting its mirrored surface. The mystical red Tori gate that jutted out of its surface stood silently as the small waves crashed against its legs.
A fog began to form, covering up the path, the trees, the gate, and the lake in its entirety. The fog consumed everything that it grasped, swallowing up the venue and cradling it in its clammy clutch.
It was quiet, apart from the steady sound of water dripping off the branches onto the trodden path and the abnormality of metal clashing into metal, blade into blade.
In the middle of the path were two rather odd-looking figures exchanging blows with another odd-looking character. The first of the two was tall and slender, and had long, flowing red hair that climbed down his back. He wore a blue hakama with a red sash and a white, open-chested jacket, very unusual for the times. He wore a cool expression on his face, apparently not phased by anything.
The other of the two looked the complete opposite. He was a little shorter than average height, with a very muscular build. His short, navy blue hair seemed to defy his fiery personality, framing his piercing green eyes. He wore a red hakama with a blue sash, though he was shirtless, flaunting his well-toned body.
Both the men had what appeared to be a white piece of plaster on their cheeks: the left cheek on the redhead and the right cheek on the other man. Apart from their dress, the oddest thing about them was that where their right pectoral muscle should have been was a gaping hole. Although it seems impossible that they would both be still alive with the holes there (or that part of the body not there, depending on your point of view), sure enough the two men were there, living and breathing.
The man with whom they were exchanging blows with was rather odd, too. He looked about 19 years of age, which didn’t seem very suspicious. He was a little taller than what an average Japanese would be, garbed in a black robe that opened up at the waist like a trench-coat and continued downwards to his feet. There was a slash down the side of the robe that was bleeding lightly. His right sleeve was missing, revealing that his arm was entirely wrapped in black bandages, excluding his fingers.
He had a slim build, with long limbs and a short torso. His messy, black hair had a slight dark-red tinge to it. The expression on his face was similar to the taller of the two men: calm and collected. He was apparently not especially concerned of the situation that the two men had placed him in.
Momentarily, there was a lull in the fighting. The robed man looked around his surroundings, noticing that he had been placed between a thick row of trees and his two opponents. Apparently, there’s nowhere to run anymore, he thought to himself with a sigh.
A malicious grin started to form on the blue-haired man’s face, causing the ghost-white plaster on the side of his face to rise up with it. “There’s nowhere left to run, Shinigami,” the man stated. He raised his short, curved sword up, pointing it at the robed figure. “Now, dog of the Soul Society, prepare to lose your life by the hands of the Numeros Arrancar, Alvaro Baudelio!”
“I see a few problems with your assertion,” sighed the Shinigami as he sheathed his sword and turned his back to the Arrancar.
The red haired Arrancar narrowed his eyes, changing his stare from cool ice to that of intrigue. “What was that?”
Now facing the row of trees, the Shinigami began, “First off, I am of no relation to the Soul Society. I dropped from their ranks long ago. Secondly,” he continued, turning his head in their direction. His eyes were no longer calm and lighthearted: they were dark and murderous, their brown irises seemed to flare red. “Why would I run away when it would be so much easier to kill you instead?”
The Shinigami drew his sword, slashed his blade toward the row of trees and re-sheathed his sword all in one motion. He turned back towards the unmasked Hollows, a placid stare on his face. The trees started to fall towards the two Arrancar, threatening to crush them under their massive weight.
“Shit!” exclaimed Alvaro, surprised. As he reached up to cut the trees that were falling on top of him, he looked down just in time to see the Shinigami appear sliding past him underneath, unsheathing his sword. With a flash the sword came cut of its sheath, colliding with Alvaro’s mid-section.
Roughly fifteen meters behind Alvaro, the Shinigami’s sliding body came to a halt. Looking back, he looked at Alvaro with an uninterested look on his face. “You’re still alive? I’m surprised.” His words betrayed his apathetic expression, though.
Alvaro grinned. “Why wouldn’t I be? Arrancar have a skin as hard as diamonds, called ‘Hierro.’ It’s futile to attempt to cut us!” he said with a laugh.
“If that’s so,” began the Shinigami, holding up his Zanpakutou, “then what’s this?”
The back of the Shinigami’s blade was painted crimson. Bewildered, Alvaro felt his stomach and felt his own blood, hot and sticky. He glared at the Shinigami. “So I see we’re not dealing with some runt.” A malicious smile spread across his face. “I guess we’ll have to get serious, then.” He glanced at his brother, who then nodded at him.
“What?” started the Shinigami, “Are you going to release your Zanpakutou now?” A surprised expression shot across both of the Arrancar’s faces. “Why do you look so surprised? It was obvious that you two weren’t fighting at full strength, as your Spiritual Pressure is nothing extraordinary. Plus both of your swords resemble Zanpakutou and are radically different, leading me to believe that you have at least one release. So can we quit with this charade and continue?”
The red-haired Arrancar smiled. “That’s quite the hypothesis you’ve come up with. You’re actually quite correct. However,” continued the Arrancar while raising his sword, “you’ll find that this is very unfortunate for you. Are you ready, Alvaro?”
The blue-haired Arrancar rose his short, curved blade above his head. “Of course, Goyo!” He looked at the Shinigami, a malicious look in his eyes. “Are you ready, Shinigami?” Prepare to witness our true power!”
He took his sword and stabbed it into his own Hollow-hole. “Chispa (Spark), Infierno!”
Goyo did the same, stabbing his long blade into the Hollow-hole on his right. “Ascenso (Rise), Torrente.”
As soon as Goyo said his Zanpakutou’s name it dissolved into water that then poured from his Hollow-hole, then disappeared. Alvaro’s Zanpakutou turned into flames, erupting from his Hollow-hole. Turning to face the Shinigami, Alvaro asked, “What’s wrong, Shinigami? Have you never seen an Arrancar’s release before?” He grinned, pointing his fist at the Shinigami. “Well here’s a first-hand experience!” he yelled, punctuating the last word with a burst of blazing-flames from his hand.
“Fire?” bluntly questioned the Shinigami, easily avoiding the blast. “You control fire? Then I’m assuming that this one,” turning to face Goyo, “controls water.”
The red-haired Arrancar pulled back a loose strand of hair off of his face. “Correct once again, Shinigami-san. Now, if you’d please,” began Goyo, now staring at the Shinigami, “Die!” His arm dissolved into water and launched itself at the Shinigami, which he easily dodged. However, he didn’t count on the water rematerializing into an arm, which then proceeded to club him in the back of the head, knocking him over.
He recovered his fall into a dive-roll, using the momentum from the roll to launch himself at Goyo, slashing him in half. With a smile on his face, the two halves of Goyo disolved into water, going around his ankles. “Now, Alvaro!” yelled the puddle of water that went around the Shinigami’s feet, constricting him.
“Of course, brother!” yelled back the other Arrancar, who’s forearms turned to flames. “Die, Shinigami!” he hollered with a spiteful grin on his face, launching his arms at the Shinigami, colliding with his body and covering him from head to toe in flames.
“Ow! Goddamit, Alvaro!” yelled his brother retreating from the flames that were now engulfing their surroundings. “You made me steam again!” This was actually quite true, as steam was literally emanating from his body.
“Heh, so?” asked Alvaro, uninterested. Flame sprouted out of where his forearms were missing, which then formed into new ones. “I killed him, didn’t I? So why does it matter?”
“I think you may be mistaken,” said a voice coming from the smoke. Surprised, the two brothers looked in the direction of the voice. As the smoke and steam cleared from the trees, a figure was revealed, belonging to none other than the Shinigami, completely unscathed. “You look surprised to see I’m still alive.”
“How?” demanded Alvaro, grinding his teeth. “How are you still alive?”
“How?” commented the Shinigami. “Well, it’s quite simple, really. Though I think it would be better for you to experience it for yourself. Here!” he said, pointing at his chest. “Shoot me with your flames again and see what happens. It’s futile.”
Great! thought Alvaro. Now I just need to use a full-powered blast and he’s down for good! “Alright Shinigami, but it’s your funeral!” This time his entire body dissolved into flames that seemed to sneer at him. “Die!” he yelled as the flames launched themselves at the stoic figure, colliding with his chest. It’s over! thought the Arrancar, who now reassembled himself behind the Shinigami. He turned around to admire his handiwork and then noticed that the Shinigami was standing there, untouched and unfazed by his attack.
The Shinigami looked over his shoulder, an unimpressed look on his face. “Is that it?” He sighed. “It looks like this fight will turn out to be much less interesting than I had predicted.” He redrew his Zanpakutou, holding it out in front of him. “You see, your flames don’t affect me because of the nature of my Zanpakutou. Witness it yourself!”
His demeanor changed from one of uninterest to one of seriousness as he leaned back into a battle stance. “Oku no homura to saku! Honoo no Kaze Soushi (With your inner fire, separate! The Twin Flaming Winds!).”
There was an explosion of fire that disrupted the visibility between the three figures. Just as suddenly and explosive as the fires came up, they died down, revealing the Shinigami’s Zanpakutou. In his hands were two identical blades. The two blades looked like two flat pieces of iron, ending in a vicious-looking hook at the end of each. The handles of the two swords looked like a smashed-in square, a crescent moon shaped piece of metal made up the front of it while underneath it looked very similar to the end of a halberd.
He turned to face the Arrancars. “Owarimashou (Let’s end this.).” He disappeared, reappearing in front of a bewildered Alvaro, the blade in his right hand sinking into Alvaro’s torso. “Moetsuku (Ignite).” From the hilt of the blade rising upwards, fire ignited on the blade, catching Alvaro on fire.
Alvaro kicked out at the Shinigami, which he blocked with his own leg, though the Arrancar used the recoil of the kick to separate himself from the blade inside his stomach. Landing on the ground, he grabbed his blackened stomach, polluted blood pouring from it onto the trodden path. “How did you burn me? Me, the Arrancar master of fire!”
“Master of fire? Don’t make me laugh,” he said, sickened. “Your flames can’t even scorch my robe.” Turning towards Goyo, he blandly stated, “Your turn.” He disappeared.
Goyo prepared to guard the inevitable strike in front of him. He suddenly felt a presence behind him and, learning from his brother’s mistake, turned himself into water just before the two blades came crashing through his shoulder blades, splitting him into four pieces. The quarters of water went up along the blade and surrounded the Shinigami, attempting to suffocate him.
Before the water could reach his head, he stabbed both his blades into the dirt of the forest path. “Jisei Honoo no Hana (Blossoming Flame Flower).” he muttered. All of a sudden, a column of fire sprouted from the cracks in the ground, swallowing up the two combatants in a figure of fire that looked like a blooming flower.
As the flames died down, the Shinigami was the only one standing; Goyo was laying on the ground, steaming and missing his left arm. “Damn you!” he spat through gritted teeth. “Just what the hell are you, anyways?”
“’What’?” asked the Shinigami. “Do you mean ‘who’? If so, I’ll tell you.” He leaned on his Zanpakutou, which was still stuck in the ground. “Possessor of what was the second most powerful Fire-type Zanpakutou in the Gotei 13, Shou Michio.” Pulling his Zanpakutou out of the ground, he raised them both above his head. “But please now, disappear. Moetsuku,” he whispered, the flames igniting on the length his Zanpakutou. “May Death be merciful on your soul.”
The twin blades came down.
The path continued to darken like before, but was no longer darkened by rain, but by blood.


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Upholstered White Doll Bed for 14 1/2-inch dolls.
- Handcrafted upholstered white doll bed and tufted doll mattress by Handmade by Hill for 14 1/2-inch to 15-inch dolls.
- Doll bed: 17 3/4 inches long and 8 1/2 inches wide. Made of foam board, padded with polyester batting, and covered in cotton fabric.
- Headboard: Made of foam board, padded with polyester batting, is 8 1/2 inches high and covered in cotton fabric.
- Tufted mattress:1 1/2 inches thick, 17 1/4 inches long and 8 1/2 inches wide. Filled with 100% Premium Polyester Fiberfill, which is non-allergenic and covered in white cotton fabric.
- From the bottom of the bed to the top of the mattress is 3 3/4 inches.
- The doll, doll mask, and doll pajamas aren't included. The doll mask is available in this listing. The doll pajamas are available in this listing.
- Not made for children under 3 years old.
- Created and stored in a pet-free and smoke-free environment.

domain: design


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The government shutdown continues after Congress failed to reach an agreement Monday night. But now there's a greater worry about the debt ceiling.
Who does the U.S. actually owe $16.7 trillion to?
LinkedIn isn’t really set up for blue-collar workers. Now a new site aims to fill the gap.
“I think the best compliment I can give is not to say how much your programs have taught me (a ton), but how much Marketplace has motivated me to go out and teach myself.” – Michael in Arlington, VABEFORE YOU GO

domain: economics


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After being arrested in a drugs-for-sex sting, a once-revered Colorado lawman ends up in a detention center bearing his name
An ex-detective testifies that he and his colleagues frequently fabricated drug cases to meet arrest quotas
Just in time for Domestic Violence Awareness Month, Kansas' capital city is on the verge of decriminalizing domestic battery as part of a budget standoff
A predictive computer program is piling up an impressive track record of preventing burglaries in California
After serving 18 years in prison for allegedly killing three Boy Scouts, three Arkansas men are unexpectedly granted freedom Friday during a surprise hearing
The recession was expected to cause a spike in robbery and murder, but the FBI says violent crimes actually dropped last year. Why the decline?
The Supreme Court orders the Golden State to free inmates from its overcrowded prisons. Justice Scalia dissents, warning that "terrible things are sure to happen." Is he right?
- Half the world's population lives in these 6 countries
- This is why you can't trust the NSA. Ever.
- How a degree from Duke University dashed my dreams of buying a home
- What would a U.S.-Russia war look like?
- Why you should stop believing in evolution
- Innocent before proven guilty? The bizarre bipartisan rush to clear Rick Perry
- The real-life events that inspired Game of Thrones' Red Wedding
- This 1,600-year-old Viking war game is still awesome
- What Keeping Up with the Kardashians can teach America about interracial marriage
- 7 grammar rules you really should pay attention to
Subscribe to the Week

domain: law


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According the latest piece of Marvel casting Aubrey Plaza is joining the cast of Agatha: Coven of Chaos. Rumors around this news place Aubrey’s characters as most likely to be the main antagonist of the upcoming Disney+ show. though this could just be fan generated speculation. Here is what Variety reported about the casting news.
Aubrey Plaza is joining Kathryn Hahn in the upcoming Marvel Studios series “Agatha: Coven of Chaos” at Disney+, Variety has learned from sources.
The series is a spinoff of the Marvel show “WandaVision,” with Hahn set to reprise the role of Agatha Harkness. Exact plot details, including the character Plaza would play in the show, are being kept under wraps. Emma Caulfield Ford is also set to reprise the role of Dottie from “WandaVision” in the new series, while Variety exclusively reported that “Heartstopper” star Joe Locke will also star “Coven of Chaos.”
As has been the case in the past, Marvel does not comment on projects they have in the works. Reps for Plaza declined to comment.
As you can see there is no hint of what role Plaza has in the show in this report. However the Barside Buzz seems be swinging towards antagonist. Until we get something more solid on that front though, all we can say is Plaza is in and playing, someone, in Coven of Chaos.
As for Joe Locke, the current favorite among the fan base is Hulkling. Though, again we don’t seem to have anything solid on that front for now. Likely this is guess work from fans because Locke has previously played a gay teenager. However, until we know more, anything goes.
What do you think of the news that star Aubrey Plaza joins the cast of Agatha: Coven of Chaos? What about the rumor she’s the antagonist of the show, is it just fan speculation? As always, leave any thoughts below.

domain: celebrity


With his second inauguration, Barack Obama will become the first president since Dwight Eisenhower to renew his tenure after having won more than 51 percent of the vote in two consecutive elections.
More importantly, in a political sense, he will be the first Democrat since Franklin Delano Roosevelt to have won mandates from the majority of the American people in two consecutive elections.
This is the perspective that Americans should bring to the inaugural festivities. We should expect a great deal from Barack Obama. Despite four years of battering by Fox News and Limbaugh and the Tea Party and Mitch McConnell, he has been re-elected with a higher percentage of the popular vote than John Kennedy in 1960, Richard Nixon in 1968, Jimmy Carter in 1976, Ronald Reagan in 1980, Bill Clinton in 1992 or 1996 or George Bush in 2000 or 2004.
Obama’s mandate extends beyond himself. His party has increased its Senate majority and Democrats earned 1.4 million more votes in House races than Republicans. Gerrymandering and money kept Republican control of the House, but that opposition party is in such disarray that the president really does have an opening to make something of his mandate.
Obama must seize that opportunity as an essential part of making the case for bold executive orders and a bold legislative agenda that will bring not just the hope but the change he promised in what now seems like a very distant 2008 campaign. The president has in the transition period since the 2012 election displayed a willingness to push harder, to go bigger, and it has yielded significant progress not just on gun-safety issues but in the long struggle against the Republican austerity agenda that makes a diety of deregulating away consumer and environmental protections, tearing the social safety net and cutting taxes for wealthy campaign donors.
To consolidate that progress, and to assure that his second term will be as visionary and activist as his 2012 campaign promised, Obama must, like FDR, use every opportunity to give voice to the agenda—not just in his inaugural address but in his February 12 (Lincoln’s Birthday) State of the Union address.
To do this, the forty-fourth president would be wise to note his electoral connection to the thirty-second, as a Democrat who after a difficult first term has earned as second term with a mandate to govern. Yes, times and circumstances are different. Obama does not have the “New Deal” Congress that Roosevelt did, but neither does he face quite the economic challenge that FDR did.


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Boa Constrictor LG G6 Skin
This Boa Constrictor G6 Skin features exclusive artwork from artist Vincent Hie. Showcasing an eerie, bright yellow Boa Constrictor weaving through a blue cloth, you'll love how this Skin looks on your G6. Dress up your LG G6 smartphone to impress. The Boa Constrictor LG G6 phone skin is designed with premium 3M vinyl and printed with ultra-vivid print technology so your G6 will stay looking fresh and new, longer. The Boa Constrictor LG G6 skin is the perfect way for you to add a personal touch to your already-impressive LG smartphone.

domain: artistic


Blenders and mixers are used to thoroughly combine any type of liquid or solid during the manufacturing process; they are usually large tanks or vats with motorized blades or paddles that rotate on a stationary shaft or remain stationary themselves. Stainless steel is most commonly used, especially within the food and beverage industry because of the metal’s sanitary and hygienic properties.
Other potential materials include aluminum, steel or cast iron. Because most consumable products contain various ingredients that have been mixed through this industrial process, blenders are widely used across many industries. Nearly all types of consumables or products that come into direct contact with people including beverages, pills and drugs, toothpaste, foods, petroleum products and many other products must be processed by blenders and mixers.
Blenders are also used frequently in the cosmetic, pharmaceutical, chemical, agricultural, pulp and paper, automotive, water treatment, adhesive and sealant industries.
Industrial blenders are generally composed of mixing blades, ribbons, impellers or propellers that are driven by a rotor-stator, a single rotor or a twin rotor. Certain applications require specific types of industrial blenders in order to achieve the appropriate consistency or end-product. Cost effectiveness and efficiency are often the most important considerations.
Blenders have become more powerful, more efficient and more varied. Blades are machined to mix faster while the motors that power them are smaller and use less fuel than older models. Certain designs maximize certain benefits and the variety of blender shapes, sizes and abilities continues to expand.
Some of the many types of industrial blenders include ribbon blenders, paddle blenders, vacuum blenders and dryers and agitators. Ribbon blenders are horizontal blenders containing two helical blades, one inside the other, pushing the contents of the mixer both inwards and outwards for thorough shearing mixing action; typically used at full capacity to mix dry or powdered ingredients, ribbon blenders may blend wet ingredients as well.
Paddle blenders are similar, moving dry or powdered ingredients laterally and radially with paddles radiating from a horizontal screw. Vacuum mixers and dryers can have horizontal or vertical construction and use a combination of low internal heat and vacuum pressure to blend the mixture while removing moisture. Another very common type of mixer and therefore blender is an agitator with a single or double impeller to mix products with high viscosities.


The San Antonio River Walk is a public park and a one-of-a-kind pedestrian path in San Antonio, Texas, located one level below the main roadway.
Iconic area with landscaped walkways, bridges, restaurants, bars, hotels, shops & boat tours.
More Info: https://www.thesanantonioriverwalk.com/
A few visitors share:
“Very cool place located in downtown with tons of shopping and food options.”


Monarchs in the Meadow
Pollinators like monarch butterflies get a boost with habitat preservation.
Created by Alison Shapiro, Explore Natural Communities Intern Summer 2015, NatureServe.
Sound: Bee, recorded by nps.gov (soundbible.com). Public Domain.
Music: The Curtain Rises, and Bumba Crossing, by Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com). Licensed under Creative Commons: Attribution 3.0
Photo: Monarch Butterfly on Lobelia, by Matt Jones. Licensed under Creative Commons: Attribution-NonCommercial 3.0
Podcast time: 2:06 minutes
Far away in Mexico, something very important is happening. Spring is coming and the monarch butterflies know it's time to move. Flying out on delicate orange wings, they travel for hundreds of miles from their warm and sunny winter homes to eastern North America where they find their beloved wildflowers. But there's one plant in particular that the monarchs are looking for and it isn't so easy to find anymore—milkweed.
In Rock Creek Park, land use has changed dramatically over time. Fires that once spread periodically throughout the forest are suppressed. And in the shade of big trees, some of the smaller plants, like milkweed, have trouble getting the sun they need. So what is a monarch to do without the milkweed that their eggs will need?
Quickly, to the meadow!
Without fires to naturally clear spaces in the forest, Rock Creek Park staff have set up a series of "managed meadows." Kept open by planned mowing, these open spaces give sun-loving grasses and wildflowers like milkweed the opportunity to grow.
Pollinators of all kinds get the nectar and pollen they need from the wildflowers in these meadows. Not just butterflies like the monarch, but bees and hummingbirds, too.
The Presidential Memo creating the Pollinator Health Strategy is just one way people are coming together to save the pollinators. National Parks are restoring pollinator habitats and promoting conservation of this important group of animals worldwide.
Even as the monarchs find safe places to lay their eggs and flower nectar to eat, they will soon be on their way again. But maybe they will hang around Rock Creek Park a little while longer, enjoying the meadows the park provides, and give us a chance to enjoy the pollinator show.


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Roast Red Pepper Bake
How to Make It
Preheat the oven to 180 degrees celsius and divide the red pepper sauce between two small ovenproof dishes.
Break the eggs into each dish, bake for 7-10 minutes until the egg whites have set.
Place the ciabatta on a baking tray and drizzle with the olive oil. Rub the garlic clove over the bread and cook for 2 minutes.
Season the eggs with salt and pepper and serve with the ciabatta.
- 2 eggs
- 1 jar roasted red pepper sauce
- 2 slices of ciabatta bread
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 garlic clove

domain: food


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Goat Yoga TexasPhoto: Goat Yoga Texas
Once during a class at Goat Yoga Texas, Annie Goatley got so comfortable lying on the back of a student that she fell asleep. The yogi, on all fours in a tabletop pose, held the position for as long as possible so as not to wake the miniature goat.
Named for outlaws and country crooners, the herd at Goat Yoga Texas is not shy. During weekend yoga classes that are held outdoors in a corral, the goats wander between human legs and arms and sometimes plop down in the center of a mat, preventing a pose but causing giggles.
Along with Annie Goatley, Lefty — the 3-year-old is the largest of the herd, clocking in at 30 pounds — Poncho, Butch Cassidy, Johnny Cash, The Sundance “Kid” and the rest of the herd is happy to get Zen again, says Goat Yoga Texas co-owner and certified yoga instructor Kimberly Brooke.
Classes were canceled during lockdown and re-launched this month at a new location in Tomball. About 90 percent of participants have never before taken a yoga class, Brooke says.
Where: Victoria's Natural Market, 20158 Bauer Hockley, Tomball
Details: $29, ages 12 and older; schedule varies, check goatyogatx.com.
Where: 7730 Bailey, Pearland
Details: $35, ages 9 and older; schedule varies, check goatyogahouston.com.
Where: 17102 Mueschke, Cypress
Details: By reservation only, no walk-ups. Private parties up to 10, $50-$200 for 1.5-2 hours; figmentranch.com.
Kids 12 and older can join their parents for the 45-minute yoga session, which is followed by 30 minutes of photo and cuddle time. If younger kids watch the class with a parent from outside the corral, they can come inside afterward to meet the animals.
During class, goats wander, hopping and investigating.
“We make the joke that the goat chooses you,” says Brooke. “They want to … get that love and give the love the people are looking for.”
Because they’ve been bottle fed since birth, the goats are socialized and crave human interaction, she says.
There’s never been a better time for outdoor exercise that allows for hugs and cuddles, says Brooke, who was flooded with inquiries when her class was featured as a date spot on Netflix’s “Indian Matchmaking.”
“We’ve just come out of one of the most stressful times in modern human history,” she says. “Being outside, being in the sun and breathing, your blood pressure is going down,” she says, adding that the benefits of animal therapy are well-documented.
“The companionship and the love that these animals provide. … It’s soul-nurturing.”
Child’s pose, with a side of cuddles
Certified yoga instructor Rachel Henson, who launched Goat Yoga Houston in 2017, resumed her weekly classes at 50 percent capacity this month at a new location — her own 1.5-acre property in Pearland.
At her Ashtanga-style classes set to music by George Strait and George Jones, all of the goats are babies, which delights children, she says.
“There’s a lot of squealing and screaming,” when kids hold the tiny goats, some of which are less than two weeks old and weigh about 2 pounds, she says. “Some kids get so excited, they start crying.”
When time allows, students get to bottle-feed the pygmy kids.
Because goats naturally jump on flat surfaces to reach vegetation and escape predators, Henson tells students that the more they pose, the more likely the animals will come near.
“Right now, especially since you can’t hug anybody … when you feel them breathe against you, it’s calming, it’s peaceful.”
“Some people just choose to cradle a goat the whole time,” she continues. “If that’s what you need, that’s 100 percent fine with me because everybody’s going through it right now.”
Llamas, alpacas and lots of love
And at Figment Ranch in Cypress, a nonprofit entity that rescues animals, a family can book a private tour to meet the resident alpacas and llamas.
Encounters might include walking an animal by a lead rope, helping with feeding and bathing, or watching the herd splash in baby pools.
There’s always time for hugs and selfies, says Figment Ranch’s Ruby Herron, who teaches guests the difference between alpacas and llamas.
“They’re mystical,” Herron says. “They’re like a unicorn … so peaceful. They just calm you.”
On their tour, families might spot the farm’s giant tortoises, goats, sheep, turkeys, chickens and rabbits — many of which are rescues.
After months of isolation, “people like the freedom” to explore nature on the staff-led tours, she says. Especially for children who aren’t often in a rural setting, “to experience animals on a one-on-one basis” is magical.
Allison Bagley is a Houston-based writer.

domain: news


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Goat milk can be considered as one of the most consumed dairy products around the world. The nutritional benefits of goat milk are numerous. About one-fourth of your recommended daily intake of calcium and vitamin A can be satisfied through a single glass of goat's milk.
Goat milk is abundant in phosphorus and, if fortified with vitamin D for commercial sale, have the essentials vital for ensuring healthy bones. Goat milk is a significant source of energy, protein, and lipids. Other than this, goat milk provides a host of other nutritional capabilities.
Goat milk nutrition facts & stats
Goat milk is a dairy alternative to cow's milk that is rich in vitamins and minerals, easier on the stomach, and offers relief for many who suffer from an intolerance of dairy.
The following nutrients are found in goat milk:
Goat milk is also rich in vitamin A which helps reduce the risk of cataracts, cancer, and even helps children fight off measles if they consume a reasonable amount of it.
For thousands of years, goat milk has played a significant role in human nutrition, possibly because it is closely akin to human milk. It is also known to form curds more easily, contain tiny milk fat globules, and have less allergenic potential compared to other types of dairy milk such as cow milk.
The protein content in goat milk varies depending on the goat’s breed, season, kind of feed, and the lactation stage. For instance, Nubian goat milk contains 3.7% protein by volume while Toggenburg goat milk has 2.7% protein. A cup of goat milk typically contains 18% of the daily required protein intake for a 2,000 calorie diet. It is also worth mentioning that compared to other breeds, dwarf goat milk contains more fat, protein, and lactose.
Goat milk is much thicker and creamier in comparison to cow milk or plant milk. There are also many health benefits associated with goat milk owing to its higher nutrient content. Read on to get an overview on these benefits.
Benefits of goat milk
Goat milk is far more than a simple specialty beverage. There are a number of reasons why goat milk may be the wiser choice for your lifestyle as opposed to any other type of milk.
Research suggests that milk is a useful element for treating skin issues. For instance, it lessens acne and blackheads. Additionally, it aids in moisturising, refining, and lightening your skin.
Beyond what milk generally does for your skin, goat milk has additional skin-friendly properties. Human skin and goat milk consist of the same pH. This means that using goat milk to cleanse your skin will protect the natural properties of your skin. This can ensure that pregnant or postpartum mothers adjusting to the changes in their skin due to hormones can be regulated and have an overall better complexion. One of the many benefits of goat milk is that it would also be of great assistance if you suffer from sensitive skin conditions.
Lactic acid and fatty acids included in goat milk help to restore the skin barrier. Goat milk's low alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) content hydrates, gently exfoliates, and heals sun-damaged skin. Additionally, it makes skin appear noticeably softer. It also contains probiotics to promote the development of healthy skin bacteria.
Compared to other types of milk, goat milk contains the most calories per serving. This means that if you are an underweight pregnant or breastfeeding mother, goat milk would be the ideal type of milk to consider in order to receive the calories you need to stay healthy. The risk of heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and high blood pressure is also reduced by maintaining a healthy weight. Additionally, it lowers the risk of developing cancer. This makes goat milk ideal for pregnant mothers and mothers that are breastfeeding in order to maintain a healthy weight while supplying essential nutrients to the baby. Goat milk can be used to treat malnourished children as an alternative to cow's milk. Therefore, goat milk should be consumed if you are underweight and want to gain weight in a healthy way.
Goat milk has fat globules that are 20% smaller than those in cow milk. Consequently, they are simpler to absorb. If you are lactose intolerant but still enjoy dairy, it is a great substitute for cow milk as it contains less lactose.
Goat milk contains more protein per serving than regular cow, soy, or nut milk. Additionally, goat milk's protein helps digestion and metabolism run smoothly making it ideal for pregnant mothers. Goat milk also has a higher protein content which means that toddlers could also benefit from drinking goat’s milk as it will help them grow.
Thrombocytopenia, which refers to the condition of having a lesser blood platelet count during pregnancy, can cause both a mother and her foetus a host of issues. These issues range from excessive bleeding during pregnancy to premature delivery, or having to face complications if getting an epidural. Research indicates that goat milk has proven to boost the blood platelet count due to its primary constituent- selenium. This is why goat's milk is ideal for protecting the health of mothers during pregnancy and in turn ensuring that your baby is delivered safely at the right time.
Breastfeeding is the best option to feed your infant up to 2 years, however, as an added source of protein, you can give your baby goat milk formula as well. As a result, they are less likely to develop milk allergies compared to if they had cow's milk. Having a milk allergy can cause anaphylaxis, a life-threatening reaction that narrows the airways. This is why goat milk is the ideal type of milk to give toddlers.
A2 casein is also a significant component in goat milk. For instance, 100ml of goat milk has 3.6 grams of A2 casein in it. High protein levels are present in A2 casein similar to human breast milk. This means it plays a part in preventing milk allergies in kids. These allergies can have symptoms that range from an irritable bowel syndrome to colitis which is caused by inflammation. For more medical information, please contact your doctor.
An enzyme called xanthine oxidase is found in the fat globule membranes of bovine milk. Unfortunately, when Xanthine Oxidase enters the bloodstream, it may result in heart problems. A study found that the enzyme xanthine oxidase is scarce in goat milk. Therefore, pregnant mothers can benefit from the lower amount of this enzyme which reduces the risk of arteriosclerosis.
The disorder known as arteriosclerosis causes the arteries that carry oxygen and nutrients to and from the heart and body to thicken and stiffen. This in turn limits blood flow to your organs and tissues. Therefore goat milk is the ideal type of milk to ensure that you stay healthy during your pregnancy so that you are able to sustain both yourself and the growing life within you.
As a pregnant mother you are sure to be consuming more food and nutrients in order to sustain you and your baby. Not only this, many pregnant mothers experience sweet cravings which can increase blood sugar levels. When your bloodstream has too much glucose, it also replenishes the remaining glucose in your liver. Blood sugar levels rise in the body as a result of insulin resistance.
This means that type 2 diabetes may eventually ensue. Your blood glucose levels can be balanced with an adequate dose of insulin. Goat milk helps you retain insulin which prevents insulin resistance which can be very bad for pregnant mothers.
Severe iron deficiency anaemia occurs during pregnancy, when red blood cells prevent oxygen from being carried by your body. This is detrimental because severe iron deficiency anaemia can increase the risk of premature birth. Postpartum depression and low birth weight are also associated with iron deficiency anaemia during pregnancy. Goat milk is ideal for preventing these complications during pregnancy and ensuring that you and your baby are both healthy.
There are many nutrients in goat's milk. Goat's milk provides a wholesome and natural choice when it comes to receiving the essential nutrients such as protein, calcium, and fats. Goat milk helps with improving your health in terms of ensuring a healthy weight gain, boosts platelet count, prevents arteriosclerosis, cholesterol and anaemia as well as helps defend against insulin resistance which can keep you healthy during pregnancy and while breastfeeding which will indirectly benefit your little one as well. It is also good for skin care purposes, is easily digestible and most importantly, prevents milk allergies in kids.
Thus, adding goat's milk to your regular diet is a wise and delicious way to receive all the essential nutrients you need during pregnancy. This explains why it is so widely consumed internationally. Keep in mind that 200 ml, or three servings, of goat milk, will satisfy a person's calcium requirements. Take advantage of the positive effects goat milk can have on your life.


text:
Not even restaurant critics are immune from having robots take over their jobs.
According to this article in the New York Times, the Thai government has funded the creation of a machine that can rate the authenticity of Thai dishes. The robot, called e-Delicious, is a boxy contraption that uses 10 sensors in its electronic tongue to evaluate levels of spiciness, taste and smell. It gives a rating based on government standards for the dish.
Sure, it might be able to evaluate the food, but can it deliver its results with snarky prose?


text:
So now that the weather is cooler has your life moved inside under the doona and onto the couch? Be a step ahead of everyone and keep moving.
Don’t use the weather as an excuse to give up and do nothing or slow down your already active lifestyle. Here are some tips:
- Use your head – Think of exercise as an opportunity, not an inconvenience and be active in as many ways as you can. Do something that you enjoy!
- Don’t get left in the dark – Make the most of the daylight hours and stretch your legs during lunchtime. Go for a walk, run or organise a lunchtime team sport.
- Don’t Do it Alone – Find an exercise partner who will help you to stay motivated when it is cold outside – phone a friend and get active together.
- Try Something New – Find a nearby indoor exercise class or indoor heated pool – have you tried Zumba or water aerobics yet? Roller skating, ice skating or rug up and head for the hills on an exhilarating bush walk.
- Set goals – set some realistic winter goals and reward yourself as you achieve them.
- Walk your best friend – Someone who never says no, no matter what the weather is your dog – get out and go!
- Don’t Forget to Warm up – Cold temperatures can make your muscles tight and prone to injury. Make sure you do a thorough warm up prior to your exercise.
- Insulate your Body – If exercising outdoors, wear layers of clothing. Layering provides the most effective heating method and allows you to remove the top layer if you get too hot.
- Drink Up – It’s just as important to stay hydrated when exercising in winter as it is in summer, even though you may not feel as thirsty.
Leanne Sklavenitis has been extensively involved in the Fitness industry in not only Australia but also the USA for over 20 years as an Online Fitness Expert, Group Fitness instructor / Personal Trainer and Speaker running a successful online home based fitness business.
She has won the Aquatic and Recreation Victoria Group Exercise Instructor of the Year Award, the YMCA Group Fitness Instructor of the Year Award, has presented to 5000 delegates in Singapore, spoken to numerous corporate organisations and presented at conferences. She has also been interviewed in Fitness Instructor editorials and written fitness articles for magazines.
Leanne currently runs her own Online Health & Fitness Motivation Business where she provides the latest health and fitness motivation and helps to motivate fitness clients “online” no matter where they live. She has recently launched a new health and fitness membership site which contains all the information you need to know about creating the healthy lifestyle you deserve.

domain: health


text:
Avery Bardot steps off the plane in Rome, looking for a fresh start. She’s left behind a soon-to-be ex-husband in Boston and plans to spend the summer with her best friend Daisy, licking her wounds—and perhaps a gelato or two. But when her American-expat friend throws her a welcome party on her first night, Avery’s thrown for a loop when she sees a man she never thought she’d see again: Italian architect Marcello Bianchi.Marcello was the man—the one who got away. And now her past is colliding with her present, a present where she should be mourning the loss of her marriage and—hey, that fettuccine is delicious! And so is Marcello. Slipping easily into the good life of summertime in Rome, Avery spends her days exploring a city that makes art historians swoon, and her nights swooning over her unexpected what was old is new again romance. It’s heady, it’s fevered, it’s wanton, and it’s crazy. But could this really be her new life? Or is it just a temporary reprieve before returning to the land of twin-set cardigans and crustless sandwiches? A celebration of great friendship, passionate romance, and wonderful food, Roman Crazy is a lighthearted story of second chances and living life to the fullest.
Audible Audio, Simon & Schuster Audio, 10 pages
Published September 13th 2016 by Simon & Schuster Audio
Four stars: A delightful escape book that features a sizzling second chance romance set in Rome!
Avery is shocked when she opens her husband's office door and comes face to face with his manhood dipping into his secretary. Furious, she slams the door and pursues a divorce, despite the prodding from her wealthy mother in law. Feeling low and defeated, Avery decides to visit her best friend, Daisy, in Rome. Once she arrives in Rome, Avery is enamored with the old world charm, the sun and the food. On her first night, Daisy throws a party for Avery. What Avery doesn't expect is to come face to face with her past. Marcello is the man who stole her heart, the one she let get away, and the one she never thought she would see again, but here he is sitting next to her at dinner, and he's decidedly furious. Soon, Avery finds herself spending more and more time with Marcello, soaking up the sun, the art and the food. Is it possible to get a second chance at love?
What I Liked:
- Roman Crazy is exactly the book you need to read during the cold winter months. This is an excellent escape novel that takes you to the sun drenched streets of Rome with its grand splendor, gorgeous colors and decadent food. I felt like I was right there in Rome, and believe me, this is a great cure for the winter blues!
- The setting is fantastic. I loved how the authors brought Rome to life. The attention to detail was wonderful from the cobbled street, the flowers bursting from the planters, the quaint shops, the old architecture and the rich descriptions of food. I loved that I could go to Rome vicariously while reading this book.
- The romance was wonderful. This is a second chance romance, one that took root years ago and was abandoned. It starts out bristly and hesitant, and then it warms to a friendship before bursting into the intense buried heat and passion that was simmering deep down for years. I liked that it took its time to reignite, and I loved seeing these two find their way unexpectedly back to one another. Once it takes off, it is sizzling hot, it will warm you right up on a cold winter night.
- I also liked that this was a story about personal growth and discovery. Avery long ago gave up her dreams and her ambitions for a career as she got lost in her husband's life and world. Once she heads to Rome, she slowly rediscovers her talent and her dreams. I loved seeing her find her way again. I also liked the way she handled her ex husband and the way they worked it out.
- The ending was sweet and satisfying. No loose ends or nagging questions.
- The audiobook version was fantastic. I loved the dual narration provided by Nina Bocci and Randi Geddens. I am a huge fan of two narrators, and I thought this duo did an excellent job with the story and characters.
And The Not So Much:
- I was bothered by the romantic stumble at the end. I couldn't figure out why Avery never bothered to question this issue in the beginning before she got involved, it was something she should have done from the get go. I also didn't like that she didn't come clean with Marcello right away about the past.
- Something happened to Avery in her past that caused a rift in her marriage. I was disappointed that this issue wasn't covered in more detail. I was left wondering what happened to Hannah?
- For all you fans of Alice Clayton, this one lacked the trademark humor that Clayton is known for. Not a big issue but if you are expecting this one to be full of humor, it isn't.
Roman Crazy is the perfect winter escape novel. I loved traveling vicariously to Rome while reading this. The setting is delightful, the romance hot, and the story is entertaining. I would highly recommend this book for anyone who is suffering a case of the winter blues, or it is perfect for anytime you need a great escape read.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own, and I was not compensated for this review.


Bootheel Blues Society
An Interview with Gospel Music's
Sylvia Rose Cobb
(photo courtesy of Sylvia Rose Cobb)
I became aware of Sylvia Rose Cobb when I was introduced to a song she composed, the popular "Mansion, Robe and Crown." A group I performed with did the song and she later saw it on YouTube. After a few emails between the two of us I was able to arrange for her to talk to me here.
Sylvia has been involved with music in one form or another for most of her life. After she heard the chorus from Southwestern Christian College in Terrell, Texas perform at her church, she decided that's where she wanted to attend college. By her sophomore year, she was named the school's first female student director of the college chorus. After two years at Southwestern, Sylvia received a Ford Scholarship to Harding University in Searcy, Arkansas and she graduated in 1977 with a bachelor's degree in music. She later taught music and directed the chorus at Harding for 3 years before moving to Detroit, Michigan. After her move, she decided to concentrate writing religious music. Over the years, Sylvia has written hundreds of songs, started her own publishing company, written a musical, Long Live the Dream, served as interim principal for Luckett Christian Academy and many other endeavors. In 1997 she founded Great Heritage Ministries, Inc. which is a non-denominational ministry.
When you were growing up, did your father and siblings also have an interest in music? Whereas we have a few members who sing, my family is known primarily for its ability to talk. We are at ease in speaking, a gift from our father, but I am the only music major and composer in the family.
Whereas we have a few members who sing, my family is known primarily for its ability to talk. We are at ease in speaking, a gift from our father, but I am the only music major and composer in the family.
What was the first moment you remember realizing that music was what you wanted to do? When I was in the fifth grade I was introduced to music and knew almost immediately that it would be my life. It was the comfort that I needed when my mother died at an early age.
Which musical instruments do you play and what do you consider to be your main instrument? I began playing the violin in the fifth grade and moved from there to woodwinds – first, clarinet and then settled on saxophone (primarily tenor) which I played in high school and college band. I dabbled at several others because I wanted to become an orchestra and/or band conductor. However, in my senior year of high school I joined the choir and ended up switching my focus to “voice”, majoring in choral conducting instead. I use the piano to compose, but am not a pianist at all (unfortunately), so I probably would consider my voice my main instrument.
What inspires you to write a song? Do you hear melodies first or do you work out the lyrics at first? I am by so many things. Often I will write something because I need to or have a specific reason. For instance, I have written a mini production to celebrate my sister’s 70th birthday so have written songs primarily to reflect and rejoice in the goodness of God, her love for him and the love that people have for her. Sometimes I begin with melodies and at other times I begin with lyrics.
Do you usually write songs entirely by yourself or do you collaborate? I typically do not collaborate, having only done so once.
Is there an "average" time it takes you to compose a song or does it depend on the song? I only ask because I write songs and I'm curious about other writers-some songs I compose in literally 5 minutes and others I may spend months on. Like you, it varies. I, too, have written songs within an hour, minutes and at other times, days, weeks or months. At first I thought it was an age thing as well, feeling that I had slowed down due to age, but this latest project has proved that not to be correct. I suppose it’s really about inspiration. ?
Do you compose at the piano? Most of the time I do. However, since I have a recording mechanism in my laptop, I have used it to record melodies and/or lyrics and then taken it to the piano just to develop the harmony and chording.
Aside from gospel music, what types of music do you enjoy listening to? Who are some of your favorite artists? I am a lover of music in general, but I do listen to gospel primarily. Years ago, I used country music to help me get in writing modes, especially when I was working on writing a themed project because nobody tells a story better than a country music writer. But you may find me listening to classical, jazz, pop and R&B. I am not a fan of Rap.
Do you enjoy personally performing your own compositions? I rarely sing my own compositions. I don’t sing as much as I used to, choosing to perform mostly at funerals when asked. I love hearing my songs performed by others, especially in the various arrangements and styles that others have performed them.
Have you ever felt intimidated being a woman in the music business? If so, how do you handle it? I don’t think that I would say that I have been intimidated, but I can say that it’s hard to find many people who will help or work with you to succeed. To this end, I rarely seek assistance anymore.
What inspired you to write the book "Rise Up"? I had written a different book with another person that was submitted to a publisher. They contacted me saying that they didn’t want that book, but wanted me to write or submit something else for them. Although I had several other manuscripts that I could have submitted, I said that I was willing to write what they needed. They requested a book on leadership for African American women and they titled it “Rise Up” upon its completion.
Have you ever considered delving into politics? You seem to be such a strong voice and advocate for women, especially African-American women, that I could see you having a positive impact in this regard.)Whereas I am quite the activist and advocate, I am not a politician. I could never be elected for anything because I am not a loyalist to or towards a party or a position. I am a strong advocate for women and an independent fighter for what I consider right and especially for the voiceless and the “least of these”.
I am regularly in contact with my representatives in congress and will speak out or take to the streets for issues that I believe in (health care and anti-war demonstrations).
When did you form your publishing companies? Was there any gender or cultural difficulty encountered when you created them? Right after I wrote my first song, in 1977, I read about Neil Sedaka having to purchase his own music back from a publishing company, and decided then that I would want to own my music. Having only written a couple of songs at that time, I always believed that what I would write would have value enough that ownership would be important. So when I read an article in Songwriter Magazine about publishing companies and how to form them, I followed the steps and did so. I believe that was in 1979. Afterwards, I joined organizations that held conferences that I would attend that increased my knowledge about publishing, copyrights, etc. Whereas I can’t say that I encountered problems because I was a black woman, I can say that I rarely saw women or blacks in this field during that time who owned publishing companies so I had few if any that I could relate to or connect with.
What do you like to do to relax or do you ever get to? [Couldn’t help but chuckle at this one. ] I don’t do this enough. I used to go to the movies in years past, but today I find so few that interest me. I will rent them from the library perhaps, but don’t go into the theaters that much. I have pretty much moved from music to ministry and although I enjoy it, it requires times of respite, more than what I am prone to take. I do spend a lot of time alone because the time that I spend with people is usually taxing, since I am often ministering to people who really need help. Primarily, I am a minister at a shelter for women who have recently been released from prison, those who are homeless, those battling drug and alcohol addictions and those being sheltered from abusive men. I also minister a lot to senior citizens.
In an interview with you on "YouTube" you have a picture of Dr. Martin Luther King on your wall and you also wrote a musical (partially?) based on him. Did you ever meet him when you were younger? Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. was and is my hero and inspiration. I lived in
Are your books A Guide to Effective Choral Singing and Songs of Faith available for purchase? (I've seen "Rise Up" on Amazon, etc) How would someone go about buying these books? A Guide to Effective Choral Singing and the hymnal, Songs of Faith, were self published. The first is no longer in print and the second is sold directly through our offices from my publishing company. It is available online through our company, although the site is down at the moment. In addition to Amazon.com, I also sell copies of “Rise Up” as well. It is offered via my ministry site (www.greatheritage.org) but will also be sold online via my publishing site (www.srosepublishing.com) as well. (By the way, Songs of Faith contains “A Mansion, Robe and Crown”. I had assumed that you had gotten the music from there and was surprised to know that you had just chorded it yourself. Good job!)
As a former teacher and principal, what do you think about the importance of keeping music education in schools and available to all children? Needless to say, this is also one of those things that can get a quick sermon out of me. Unfortunately, education is not of primary importance in this country, and especially a well-rounded one. We have done an injustice to our children in limiting their exposure to the arts. It was my introduction to music through the public schools and their provision of school-owned instruments that allowed me to grow and flourish into the musician and music lover that I became. It also increased my self-esteem and kept me sane and composed, in light of an abusive home after the death of my mother. I cannot fathom what life would have been like for me in school as a young child without music education.
A big thank you to Sylvia Rose Cobb for making time to do this online interview with me. If you are interested in learing more about Sylvia Rose visit:
To hear "Mansion, Robe and Crown" written by Sylvia Rose visit these links:
Guitar on the Brain
An Interview with SEMO's
How old were you when you first started playing guitar?
I started when I was 5. My dad showed me some basic open chord positions and I began picking out single note melodies. I started my first band when I was 9 with my brother Dewayne and my cousins Mike and Darrel. We called ourselves The Four Z's. Later we added Jere Swader on drums and changed our name to the Blazers. I was in that band until I was around 14. I have never been out of a band since I was 9.
Do you play any other instruments?
Mandolin, harmonica, steel,a little piano and drums. I have several lap steels that I play in different tunings. I have a double neck Rickenbacker 8 string lap steel that originally belonged to Darrel in that first band. It's sound is great for western swing and old style country.
Are you self taught or did you have music lessons?
Self taught. My Dad showed me enough to get me started and I picked up from there. I never had band in school or any formal training. I have always played by ear.
Seems as though I recall your father was a musician with the Bootheel Jamboree-is this correct and tell me anything about that you'd like to add.
My Dad played bass in the house band for the Jamboree from the very beginning. The original Bootheel Jamboree was started by Jerry Foster and Bill Rice. They were DJ's at the radio station in Malden at the time. They didn't have a building for the show and they had it in a big circus tent in Malden. I started playing drums on the show when I was 12 and I use to play acoustic guitar and sing some on the shows also. They use to have stars come in from the Grand Ole Opry and do special guest appearances so I got to play with several when I was just a kid. There were some great musicians in the band. Billy Springer played pedal steel and Dale Hawkum played guitar. You had to back every singer that walked out on stage. I learned a lot just from being exposed to great players. Foster and Rice later sold the rights to the Jamboree and moved to Nashville and teamed up as song writers and wrote a string of hits. The Palmer family bought the Jamboree and built the building in Bernie and the show ran for many years after that. My Dad was in the band until the very last show.
What brand of guitar do you play the most?
When I play blues I mostly stay with the Gibsons. My main guitar is a Gibson Firebird. I also have a Gibson ES335. I carry several guitars on stage when I am playing with the Waterstreet Band.
I have some other guitars on stage for slide in a couple of different tunings and a couple of Fenders. I also have a telecaster and a strat that I use when I need a brighter or twangier sound.
Your CD "Guitar on the Brain" was great; how can fans buy a copy?
I will have a way to buy my CD on line soon through my MySpace website. You can also buy it in Cape Girardeau at Hastings or P-Mac.
Your niece Christy Griffin who I work with at Bernie High School said that your daughter in law designed the very cool cover for the CD. Are other family members involved in your music in any way?
My daughter in law Lisa is a graphic designer and she did the cover for me. All of my kids play instruments and sing. My son Eric plays guitar and saxophone. Brandi plays saxophone and piano and sings. I recently did a show where my band backed Kimberly Dahme. Kimberly is the bassist for the rock group Boston and has out several solo CDs. Almost all of her songs have a male and female back up vocalist so I brought Brandi in for that show to sing the female back up parts. She did a great job on that show. My youngest daughter Victoria plays clarinet and sings.
Have you put out other recordings?
Guitar on the Brain was my first solo CD although I have a played guitar on a lot of sessions for other people over the years.
I am in the process of recording another CD now but I don't know when it will be finished yet.
What are some of your earliest musical memories?
One of my first memories was when my dad had some musicians over and they were rehearsing in the living room. I was probably about 5 and I had a small bodied Gibson that my aunt's boyfriend had given me. It was cracked all the way across the back of it and it rattled when you played. He gave it to me just as a toy but I wanted to know how to really play it. My dad had showed me how to make an A chord by barring my finger across the second fret. They were playing a Hank Williams song in A with a simple 1-4-5 progression. I would play along with them when they were on the A chord and I would stop when they went to the 4 and the 5 because I didn't know how to make those chords but I knew it wouldn't sound right to play the wrong cord. I could hear the chord changes. After everyone left I asked my Dad to show me the other two chords. So he showed me the D and E. I think that is when it all really started for me. I don't really remember this part but when the family got together this past Christmas at my Mom and Dads, we were talking about this. I had told them that I wanted a guitar that didn't rattle and my Dad told me that when I could play a song all the way through he would buy me a better guitar. My Mom told him that he might as well get his wallet out. In a couple of days I was playing that 3 chord progression and he bought me a guitar that played a lot better and easier to learn on.
What is your personal favorite kind of music? Who are some of the artists you listen to?
I like everything. I still love all the old country songs and western swing. The Beatles of course and lot of music from the 60s and 70s like the Stones, the Band and CCR. I loved all of the old Motown and the stuff coming out of Memphis from Stax and Hi records. Most of the music I listen to now is from strong singer songwriters like John Hiatt and some of the really hot guitar players like Albert Lee and Tommy Emmanuel. I also like the good slide players that work in different tunings like Sonny Landreth and Bonnie Raitt.
I remember Bernie musicians Junior Curtis, Butch Smith, Ray Doane, Stan Hathcoat, Bob Ash & others from way back when. Were you in any bands with them?
Those guys are some my best friends in the world. I sold Junior Curtis his first set of real drums. I was around 17 or 18 and Junior was probably 12 or 13 I guess. I had pretty much gone to guitar all the time and wasn't really playing drums anymore. I wanted to sell them to buy a new guitar. Like most of us then we didn't have much money and Junior had a homemade set of drums. I remember his hi-hat was made out of paint can lids. Shannon Howe worked at the pool hall and Junior us to hang out there. Shannon saw Juniors potential and bought my drums for Junior. When I was in my 20s Junior and I put together a progressive rock band called Dirtywork. It was a great band and I still have people ask me about to this day.
Ray Doan was my neighbor and his was the only family that lived on our road that wasn't a relative. He use to hang out the house all the time when we were playing guitars. He talked his folks into buying him a set of drums and they ordered them from Montgomery Ward. I showed him how to set them up the day they came in and showed him some basics about drumming. We didn't have air conditioning at the house so we slept with the windows open. During summer vacation he used to practice until 2 or 3 in the morning and we could hear it plain as day at our house. He almost drove my mom and dad crazy but I liked hearing it. I think the first song he learned to play was a Lovin' Spoonful song called Six O'clock. When I was high school, Ray and I put a band together with Stan Hathcoat on bass. We played together for a few years and Ray and I went on the road together when we were in our early 20s with a band called the Next of Kin. That was my first experience with the world outside of Bernie.
Butch Smith was a great talent. We first met when we were 15 and his family moved to Malden. He had been living in California and playing with guys like Clarence White who later played with The Byrds and was the co-inventor of the B-bender that is used on half the country songs you hear today. He was so far ahead of the rest of us when he moved to town. He was the one who introduced me to slide guitar and different tunings. I have no doubt that if he had stayed in California he would have ended up in a major band. I still have Butch's old 63 Fender Tremolux amp that he use to play harp thru. I miss him a lot.
Bob Ash moved to Bernie when we were in the 7th grade. His dad was with Brown Shoe Company and got transferred to Bernie to be the superintendent of the factory there. The first time they came to Bernie to see the town I was playing on a flatbed trailer with The Blazers for the grand opening of a cafe there where the bus stop was. When school started he ended up being in my class and sitting beside me. He wanted to meet me because I played but he was kind of shy at didn't know how to approach me. He had just got his first guitar for Christmas and he got my attention by sitting at his desk drawing out guitar chord diagrams on a piece of paper. I saw it and asked him if he played guitar. We ate lunch together in the school cafeteria that day and that was the beginning of a lifelong friendship. He knew 3 chords when I first met him and could play Twist and Shout by the Beatles. We started going to each others houses and playing guitars together. He learned faster that anyone I ever saw and in 6 months time it was pretty much an even exchange because he was figuring out stuff and showing it to me as much as I was showing him. We played in bands together off and on a lot throughout the years. In my late 20s and early 30s we had a band called Stampede with Earl Perkins and Scott Barnett that was together for about 6 years. The first year that band was together we played 320 nights. To this day there is no guitar player that I play with that our styles mesh together any better. We got together and played some gigs this past summer and it was like we had never stopped playing together.
All of us as well as Gene Hanners another great Bernie musician use to rent the JC hut at Malden and have these jam sessions that would last all night. We had great fun and learned a lot from each other.
I saw you warm up Buddy Guy at the Show Me Center a while back-just you and a bass player and you two were absolutely astounding. I've rarely heard so much music coming out of just two people. Is this what you like to do best or do you prefer playing with a larger crew?
The bass player is Ken Keller and he is my bass player in the Water Street band and a tremendous talent. He is also a great engineer and owns IBS studios where I recorded my CD.
When we opened for Buddy Guy that was the first time that we ever played together with just the two of us. My CD had been sent to Buddy Guy'3
s people when they were looking for someone to open up for him. They liked the CD but did not want to have that large of band open because of the logistics of the equipment change over between acts. They asked if I would do a solo or duo. I wasn't going to do it at first but the guys in the band wanted me to so I asked Ken to play with me. I do some solo and duo gigs and I really enjoy them. When I play those it is usually in a small room like a house concert and some winery gigs. This is where I get to try out a lot of my originals. I will always like the energy of a full band though.
Do you have a "day" job or just play music? (every musician's dream)
I do have a day job. I work at the RapcoHorizon company in Fruitland. They make cabling systems for the Audio industry. I mostly work with sound contractors and touring sound companies helping put together the cabling for their tours so I am working with musicians on my day job too.
What do you see yourself doing in 5 years?
I hope to be semi retired and just playing music again. I would like to do some road work again. To date I have played 38 states and 6 countries. I plan on doing some overseas tours again.
Looking back, what, if anything would you do differently in regards to your music if you could?
I would get more formal training. I don't think there is any substitute for a good ear but there have been some missed opportunity's because I was not a good site reader. If you have the ability to do both it can make a big difference.
What would you tell young musicians just starting out?
The main thing is to make sure it is always fun. The wonderful thing about playing an instrument is you don't have to be great to get enjoyment out of it. It can be enjoyed at many different levels. As far as young musicians who want to be in a band this is the advice I give them. Please yourself. You have to have somewhat of a thick skin because you no matter how good you get there is always going to be someone that doesn't like you. I don't know how many times I have heard someone say they hate the Beatles or they hate Elvis Presley. You are never going to please everyone. I know there are people that will hear me play and not like it or be indifferent to it. On the other hand I have had many people tell me that my music has brought great joy to them or touched there lives in someway.
The other thing that I tell them is the first rule of bands is all bands break up[except for the Rolling Stones] When you are in a band ,especially your first bands you can get to be like family and if the band breaks up its like getting a divorce. Don't let it stop you from playing. Find some more musicians and keep going. I would also urge them to play with as many different musicians as possible and to keep your mind open to playing all styles. Your musical taste change as you change. It's just a fact of life.
Thanks to Bernie native Bruce Zimmerman for taking time out of his very busy schedule to do this interview with me.
LADY SINGS THE DELTA BLUES
An Interview with
Donna Herula Did you grow up in a musical family? What made you decide that guitar was your instrument of choice?
I got to hear Donna Herula perform June 12 and 13, 2009 at the Chicago Blues Festival and it was quite a treat. We'd become friends on MySpace prior to this and it was nice to get to meet her after her first performance. Donna plays a very impressive slide guitar and sings the Delta Blues like she's been doing it all her life which she just about has. Her guitar playing reminds me of that done by the late Memphis Minnie and her voice reminds me of Maria Muldair.
Did you grow up in a musical family? What made you decide that guitar was your instrument of choice?
Yes, I have three older sisters and an older brother and they all play musical instruments. Although my mom did not play, she made sure that all of her kids knew how to play the piano. One of my sisters currently plays French Horn semi-professionally. When I was young, I remember watching my sister play the guitar and sing and wished that I could do that, too. After about five years of piano lessons, I was very happy to switch to the guitar when I was 10 years old.
How did you learn to play the blues and what were your first experiences playing the blues?
My brother played really amazing saxophone at neighborhood bars in
What first interested you in playing slide guitar and Delta Blues?
When I went to the Chicago Blues Festival in the 1990’s, I saw two street performers, Steve Arvey and Kraig Kenning, play some great acoustic blues. Kraig Kenning played slide on his silver metallic Dobro guitar. I had never seen anything like that before and loved it. In 1999, I saw blues slide guitarist Eric Sardinas for the first time and it had a huge impact on me. In addition to playing electric slide with his band, he also performed some solo acoustic songs by Delta Blues legends Robert Johnson and Mississippi Fred McDowell. His playing was raw and emotional and he had superior technical ability with the slide. From that day on, I knew I had to learn how to play slide guitar.
Tell me about your guitars. How long have been playing these two and where did you find them? They are vintage 1930's I believe. Do you play resonators for a more authentic sound?
I am a big fan of National Guitars. I found the old 1930's National Triolian at a vintage guitar show in the
What kind of tunings do you use most often? I'm not a slide player (but trying to learn a little) so this interests me. What is your preferred type of slide?
I use an open G tuning and an open C tuning (which is open D dropped down a whole step). I have a low voice so the C tuning tends to work better than the D tuning for me. I also use a Guild Dreadnought and play in standard and drop D tunings when I fingerpick. I like both the glass and metal slides. I used to use the glass slide more often, but more recently, I have gone back to the brass Dunlop Preachin’ Pipe.
Was this your first time officially performing at the
This was the first year that I officially played at the Chicago Blues Fest, and I was thrilled to be part of it. I have been coming to the Chicago Blues Festival since I was a teenager and my husband and I have attended each year since then. In 2006 and 2007, I was a blues street performer at the fest and in 2008, I was one of the performers at the ZonePerfect Booth. This year, 2009, I performed a commemoration for slide guitar legend Robert Nighthawk at the Route 66 Roadhouse. Nighthawk would have been 100 years old this November. Not only was he an amazing slide guitar player, he had an incredible voice and was a fantastic songwriter and lyricist. I felt honored to play his music and had a lot of fun bringing his songs to other blues lovers.
Were you nervous performing at Blues Fest?
No. As we were driving into the City, I actually felt less and less nervous and more and more excited. I felt good knowing that I was going to play a number of really cool old blues songs that many people had never heard.
I liked the PorchBoard Bass you used. I've seen John Hartford with something similar. How long you've been using it in your performances?
I bought my PorchBoard Bass in the summer of 2008, so I have used it for about a year. Before then, I tried to make my own stompboard with a pick-up and a piece of plywood and also looked into some other stomp boards, but they did not have the full, deep booming sound of the PorchBoard. On the way back to
What do you do when you aren't playing music?
When I’m not playing music, I like to watch others perform and support local music venues. In the past couple of months, I've seen Paul Geremia at a place called SPACE in
What do you see yourself doing musically in 10 years?
I would like to continue to play at music festivals and grow as a musician and songwriter.
A big thanks to Donna for taking the time to do this interview with me.To listen to Donna's music and learn more about her, including how to buy her CD, check out her MySpace page at:
www.myspace.com/donnaherula I got to hear Donna Herula perform again at the Arkansas Blues and Heritage Festival in Helena,AR Oct. 9 and 10, 2009. Below are photos taken then. Donna is a huge talent and a genuinely nice person and we hope to get to hear more of her down in our neck of the woods in the near future.
(Above,left) Donna performing her tribute to Robert Nighthawk at the Miller Hotel,Helena
(Above,right) Donna with Robert Hill and Joanne Lediger performing on the street in downtown Helena
(Above,left) Donna Herula and Cindy Lester at the Miller Hotel before her Robert Nighthawk tribute
(Above,right) Donna, middle, performing on the King Biscuit Time Radio Show on KFFA, Helena
I got to hear Donna Herula perform again at the Arkansas Blues and Heritage Festival in Helena,AR Oct. 9 and 10, 2009. Below are photos taken then. Donna is a huge talent and a genuinely nice person and we hope to get to hear more of her down in our neck of the woods in the near future.
Malden's Platinum Blues Band
Jimmy Robinson, Barnell Porter, Robert Underwood, King, Kia Vincent and Ronnie Williams at a recent performance in Malden
If you are a blues performer the BBS would love to feature you on this page. Email:
If you are a blues performer the BBS would love to feature you on this page. Email:


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Several youth protesting the removal of the chief imam of the Jimeta Juma’at Mosque, in Yola, Adamawa State, Sufiyanu Adamu, on Friday set fire to the office of the District Head of Jimeta, Ibrahim Baba-Paris.
The angry youth insisted that they would not accept the removal of the imam by the district head as it was based on the imam’s criticism of the government’s poor handling of the current security situation in the state.
The imam’s criticism came during a special prayer session for peace last week.
Trouble started after worshippers trooped to the mosque on Friday only to learn of the imam’s suspension by the district head.
Some youths then headed to the district head’s office and set it ablaze. They were about storming his home but were prevented by security agents and some opinion leaders who pleaded with them.
“We will no longer condone injustice by leaders who think we must not express ourselves in the face of injustice,” one of the protesters, Bello Sufi said. “Why should the district head feel offended because the imam spoke the mind of the majority as far as this insecurity is concerned.”
Several efforts to get the district head to react to the development was not successful as he had reportedly been rushed to an unknown destination for his safety by security agents.
When contacted, the Adamawa state Police Command spokesperson, Othman Abubakar, confirmed the incident but said he was yet to get details on the incident.
Mr. Abubakar, however, said the situation was now under control.


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For the Miami home of filmmaker Michael Bay, interior designer Lynda Murray conceptualized a site-specific ceiling-to-floor light sculpture, executed by glass artist Alison Berger, that cascades down the center of a 40-foot nautilus staircase. Rising three stories from the living room to the roof deck, the glass-and-steel staircase was designed by architect Chad Oppenheim. The living room floors are limestone, and the wall of windows looks out onto a reflecting pool.
Painter John Dowd displays selections from his art collection in the stairwell of the 1820s cottage he restored in Provincetown, Massachusetts. A 1950s portrait by Judith Shahn of a local gas-station attendant hangs near a painting by Ross Moffett of chimney repairmen. The chaise longue is 19th century, and the wide plank floors are original to the house.


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File Name: foundations of library and information science .zip
The resources below will help you to situate libraries within their worldwide historical context.
Library and information science LIS sometimes given as the plural library and information sciences   is a branch academic disciplines that deal generally with organization, access, and collection of information, whether in physical for example, art or digital form. In the last part of the s, schools of librarianship , which generally developed from professional training programs not academic disciplines to university institutions during the second half of the 20th century, began to add the term "information science" to their names. The first school to do this was at the University of Pittsburgh in Although there are exceptions, similar developments have taken place in other parts of the world. In spite of various trends to merge the two fields, some consider the two original disciplines, library science and information science , to be separate. Tefko Saracevic , p. The common ground between library science and information science, which is a strong one, is in the sharing of their social role and in their general concern with the problems of effective utilization of graphic records.
Electives 15 credit hours - students may select from a range of elective courses ranging from children's literature to information technology to archival theory and practice. One of the five electives must be a technology course: LIS , , or Successful completion of the comprehensive exam in LIS is required to receive the master's degree. Distance students with intent of returning or moving to any state other than Mississippi should be aware of the unique requirements for that state. To obtain a public school license following completion of this program, students may first obtain school licensure in Mississippi then apply for a license in their state of residence. Each state has specific requirements for licensure: some examples of additional requirements are additional coursework, distinct test scores, and criminal background checks. We are unable to determine if this program would lead to licensure in states other than Mississippi.
Search this site. Home Page. Multiple Choice Type Questions and Answers Academic Library. Academic Status of a Librarian.
The MLIS program can be tailored to meet the needs of individual students. A variety of transcript designated concentrations and areas of specialization are available which give students the opportunity to customize their elective coursework and focus their studies on a special area of interest. This accreditation is important to you as a student as many Library and Information Centers only hire graduates of ALA accredited programs. Our online program is one of the longest running online MLIS programs in the nation. SOIS is also recognized for excellence in several individual categories. Our Archives and Preservation specialty ranks 9 and our Digital Librarianship specialty ranks Available transcript designated concentrations include:.
Home About Contact Guidelines for Authors. Whether you are studying, doing research, or a working professional, this is the place for you to develop a sound knowledge of Library and Information Science. Free for everyone Forever Questions on similar subjects are grouped together so as the give a clear understanding of the subject. Under similar subjects, e. LCC, basic questions are given first which is followed by advanced level questions. This collection of questions will act not only as a question bank on Library and Information Science but also be a good tool for appearing in the competitive exams e.
Richard E. Rubin teams up with his daughter, Rachel G. Rubin, a rising star in the library field in her own right, for the fifth edition. Spanning all types of libraries, from public to academic, school, and special, it illuminates the major facets of LIS for students as well as current professionals.
In this paper we have done a comparative study of LIS professionals and managers of organizations and found more similarities than differences. This paper outlines and discusses the professional skills and necessary technological skills needed for library science professionals and managers. But what is library management that has not hitherto been taken for granted by senior librarians as their essential role as administrators of their libraries? No part of librarianship can be divorced from the concept of management - not even the more recondite aspects of professional activity such as palaeography or the bibliography of early printed books, for these, too, are concerned with the efficient control of such materials to make them readily accessible to readers.
This book explores the development, trends and research of library and information sciences LIS in the digital age. Inside, readers will find research and case studies written by LIS experts, educators and theorists, most of whom have visited China, delivered presentations there and drafted their articles based on feedback they received. As a result, readers will discover the LIS issues and concerns that China and the international community have in common.
- Она подошла вплотную к окну. Бринкерхофф почувствовал, как его тело покрывается холодным. Мидж продолжала читать. Мгновение спустя она удовлетворенно вскрикнула: - Я так и знала. Он это сделал. Идиот! - Она замахала бумагой.
Мысли ее мешались: она тосковала по Дэвиду и страстно желала, чтобы Грег Хейл отправился домой. Но Хейл сидел на месте и помалкивал, поглощенный своим занятием. Ей было безразлично, чем именно он занят, лишь бы не заинтересовался включенным ТРАНСТЕКСТОМ. Пока этого, по-видимому, не случилось: цифра 16 в окне отсчета часов заставила бы его завопить от изумления. Сьюзан допивала уже третью чашку чая, когда это наконец произошло: компьютер пискнул. Пульс ее участился.
Кожа на левой руке загорелая, если не считать узкой светлой полоски на мизинце. Беккер показал лейтенанту эту полоску. - Смотрите, полоска осталась незагорелой.
Это так важно? - полувопросительно произнес Джабба. - Очень важно, - сказал Смит. - Если бы Танкадо подозревал некий подвох, он инстинктивно стал бы искать глазами убийцу. Как вы можете убедиться, этого не произошло.
Отпусти ее, - раздался ровный, холодный голос Стратмора. - Коммандер! - из последних сил позвала Сьюзан.
icel3.org icel3.orgfoundations-of-library-and- icel3.orgGabriele F. 28.03.2021 at 13:35
23 minut v pekle pdf free don miguel ruiz the fifth agreement pdfAgunreman 30.03.2021 at 20:55
In the fifth edition of this classic textbook, Richard E. Rubin and new co-author Rachel G. Rubin provide a foundational text for LIS students and.Ghita C. 01.04.2021 at 09:17
ALA Neal-Schuman purchases fund advocacy, awareness, and accreditation programs for library professionals worldwide.Jessica C. 02.04.2021 at 18:32
Kumar, P.S.G.() Foundations of Library and Information Science. Paper. I of UGC http://gti/icel3.org 4. Eisenberg.

domain: library


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Did you know that the only rotating brick pizza oven in Hampton Roads is located in Virginia Beach? Had you heard 23451 is home to a restaurant that goes through more than 200 pounds of fish per week for their specialty tacos?
Local and visiting food lovers can relish fun facts and more on Virginia Beach Food on Foot Tours, the brand-new business established by local entrepreneur Eric Grissom.
Grissom, 24, has spent the summer uniting unlikely dining companions by way of a three-hour walking journey with visits to locally owned and operated food joints at the Virginia Beach Oceanfront. The leisurely stroll starts at 37th and Boardwalk and ends at 22nd Street - around a mile - with seven stops along the way.
"It's a way to experience the Oceanfront like a local," Grissom said. "We visit places people normally would not visit."
For 20 bucks, ticket buyers get a flavor of the Beach through Grissom's mini-history lesson and hearty portions of each restaurant's specialty. Grissom keeps the names of participating eateries secret until guests walk up to the door.
"If people had the list, then why would they go on the tour?" he said.
Grissom, a Cox High graduate and Bryant & Stratton College student, got the idea in December as he watched the Food Network during a vacation in New York. A show on the channel detailed a walking restaurant tour in Manhattan.
Grissom and a friend took it, paying nearly $120 for two tickets that didn't include tastings at eight spots in Midtown.
"I enjoyed the tour in New York," Grissom said. "(Our guide) was very knowledgeable about the city."
With college graduation around the corner, the business major - who has worked in restaurants since he was 14 - wanted to bring the New York City idea to the Beach without the high price tag.
"I know the Oceanfront, I know the food and I feel comfortable there," he said.
One of his college professors told him to ditch the idea, saying it would be too tough to start out in a bad economy. Grissom persisted.
"I don't have a family to support, so I thought it was a good time to take a risk."
He is living with his parents while he tries to get his business off the ground. His savings from working in restaurants went toward renting a booth on 22nd Street and printing business cards and ads to leave at hotels. He works seven days a week, conducting two tours a day. He makes about $1 off each ticket.
Grissom began his research in February by eating at dozens of Beach establishments. After each meal, he approached the manager or owner about being involved in Food on Foot. He did not ask for freebies from the restaurants. For the tours he planned to order the house specialty and pay with his credit card.
Even with the prospect of free advertising, future patronage and potential for immediate revenue if tourgoers ordered cocktails or additional munchies, Grissom struggled to get restaurants onboard.
"I was shocked about them saying 'no,' " he said. "I'm bringing them free clients. They're not paying for anything."
He recruited enough restaurants to get started by the end of April, and after walking the route "at least 50 times" - figuring out details like which sidewalks were widest and how he could cross the least amount of intersections - he led his first tour June 12.
The walk starts with a round of introductions and a taste of local history. Grissom wears a polo shirt, shorts and white sneakers, and carries a planner. He's lanky, with a nice smile and sun-kissed skin.
At the first stop, Grissom orders enough food for everyone to get a decent bite. While guests wait, Grissom folds in interesting information about each place, such as explaining the meaning behind the name of one spot or noting the 20 TV screens on the first level of another.
"There are things even as a local I didn't realize," said recent tourgoer Dawn Aleksich Ramey, 45, a computer-aided-design manager and Beach resident since 1999. "Ninety percent of the places I'd never been to before."
The chow arrives, and folks indulge while chatting about their vacations, favorite restaurants and interests. After the grubbing and gabbing is through, Grissom pays the tab and the group heads off to the next stop. The tour takes two-and-a-half to three hours, depending on the pace of the group.
Grissom tried to do a nightlife walking tour, but that offer lasted a little less than a week. A guest overindulged at one of the establishments, and the group was asked to leave.
"I thought it was too much of a risk, so why chance it?" he said.
A recent coupon offer landed Grissom a boatload of clients: he sold 520 of them. Before the first group of three showed, Grissom fretted. He thought if he bombed, the 517 others would be disappointed.
Depending on how things pan out this season, Grissom would like to add another tour next year that encompasses the south end of the beach. In the meantime, he wants to concentrate on perfecting the Food on Foot recipe, making it one of Virginia Beach's most enticing activities.
"It's a learning process," he said. "I'm just gonna go with the flow."
Holly Van Auken, email@example.com

domain: geography


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Bengaluru, April 10: The post-Wrestlemania editions of WWE Raw and Smackdown Live are always eventful and last night was no different. A number of surprise appearnces from the past and the stars red brand were lined up to make it a fun experience for the fans in attendance and the ones watching at home. But the most significant of all, was a sudden title change.
It was a battle of the two of greatest tag teams on Smackdown Live that ended up crowning new champions. The Usos defended their Tag Team Championships against the Hardy Boyz in a dream match that lived up to the hype. But the title change came as a big shock to the fans.
Before the match, The Usos cut a promo on their title retention at Wrestlemania 35 against three other teams in a fatal-4-way match. But they were focussed on this particular two-on-two tag match which was much-anticipated one for the WWE Universe. It was a way to prove which tag team is the best in WWE.
The match started with an armbar by Matt and Jeff Hardy on Jey Uso, who reversed it to a spear in the corner on Jeff. Jimmy Uso received the tag and the twins started controlling the match. Jey sent Matt outside the ring. Jimmy further threw Matt into the barricade to gain the upper hand.
The Hardy Boyz were back in the match with Poetry in motion by Matt alongside the Side Effect from Jeff Hardy. Usos came back to the match with two superkicks on the Hardyz. But they missed the frog splash off the top rope after which Matt hit the Twist of Fate to which Jeff followed up with the Swanton Bomb to earn the pinfall win.
By collecting this pin, The Hardy Boyz became the new SmackDown Live Tag Team Champions and thereby set a new record in the WWE. They picked up the titles for a record eighth time surpassing another legendary team of Edge and Christian. The only other tag team that has won more tag titles apart from this team is the Dudley Boyz who have ten title reigns.
However, the night did not end on a happy note for the Hardy Boyz. Lars Sullivan attacked the duo just after the match finished. He fended off Jeff Hardy from the ring before planting Matt in the middle. A flying headbutt followed on the elder Hardy to end the segment. Well, that was a great way for the newest NXT recruit to put the locker room on notice.

domain: entertainment