Striking funeral directors gain political support

<br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPwIfiR_cL8TsBXTGNxAhZBQK2UI05DCovhkiGBUwdgFVusuQ_JSw0tMampbFO_xuywDiCAiEi7zH2dYZiYS8-NOMjGPgM0DfSTJCn77nMhSj4NR7jgnYa8_BwonyIkbFvoui8Zg7JGzXV/s1600/SCI+strike.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPwIfiR_cL8TsBXTGNxAhZBQK2UI05DCovhkiGBUwdgFVusuQ_JSw0tMampbFO_xuywDiCAiEi7zH2dYZiYS8-NOMjGPgM0DfSTJCn77nMhSj4NR7jgnYa8_BwonyIkbFvoui8Zg7JGzXV/s400/SCI+strike.jpeg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Striking funeral directors in Chicago. </td></tr></tbody></table>Striking funeral directors from Teamsters Local 727 in Chicago have gained the political support of such political heavyweights as <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rahm_Emanuel" rel="nofollow">Mayor Rahm Emanuel</a>,  <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pat_Quinn_(politician)" rel="nofollow">Illinois Gov. Pat Quinn</a>, Cook County Board President <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Toni_Preckwinkle" rel="nofollow">Toni Preckwinkle</a>, 12 state lawmakers and three members of Congress: <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jan_Schakowsky" rel="nofollow">Jan Schakowsky</a>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mike_Quigley_(politician)">Michael Quigley</a> and <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tammy_Duckworth">Tammy Duckworth</a>.<br /><br />The striking funeral directors are fighting SCI Corp. for parity with other Chicago funeral industry professionals.  The $4 billion corporation walked away from negotiations, forcing the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Unfair_labor_practice">unfair labor practice</a> strike after the Teamsters’ contract expired on July 1. SCI's stock rose 56 percent in the last year, but the company proposed eliminating the funeral directors' pension fund, increased costs to health care premiums and zero wage increases for new hires after years of wage freezes for current employees.<br /><br />Pickets began a month ago at 16 Chicago-area funeral homes, which SCI operates under the Dignity Memorial brand name.<br /><br />The company has attempted to smear the funeral directors with false statements in the local news media. (Which, by the way, is exactly what you'd expect from a company that hires <a href="http://teamsternation.blogspot.com/2013/06/why-teamsters-charged-funeral-giant.html">armed goons</a> to spy on its own employees during negotiations.) <a href="http://www.teamsterslocal727.org/" rel="nofollow">Teamsters Local 727</a> put out a <a href="http://www.teamster.org/content/members-congress-join-mayor-emanuel-gov-quinn-support-striking-funeral-directors" rel="nofollow">statement</a>:<br /><blockquote class="tr_bq">Despite blatantly false claims by SCI, Teamsters are continuing to lawfully picket outside Dignity Memorial funeral homes throughout the Chicago area. Erroneous stories published by local and national media outlets have carried inaccurate reports made by SCI on the Teamsters’ uninterrupted pickets.</blockquote>The good news:<br /><blockquote class="tr_bq">Just this week, SCI contacted the Teamsters to potentially resume negotiations, offering two meeting dates. Local 727 has accepted both days.</blockquote>Stay tuned.

funeral directors strike Striking funeral directors gain political support

Striking funeral directors in Chicago.  Striking funeral directors from Teamsters Local 727 in Chicago have gained the political support of ...

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Gold Cross strikers gain support

<div class="tr_bq"><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/2-xDfJ7PC3U" width="420"></iframe></div><br />Our brothers and sisters from <a href="http://www.teamsters542.org/">Teamsters Local 542</a> are standing strong on Day 6 of their strike against Gold Cross Ambulance -- and their families are standing with them.<br /><br />The paramedics and EMTs whose job it is to save lives in Imperial County, Calif., earn less than $10 an hour. They've tried to negotiate for a living wage for six months, but the company remains intransigent. Now the Gold Cross strikers are walking the picket line in stifling heat.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.kswt.com/story/23024711/support-for-strikers-grow-families-join-picket-line">KSWT</a> reports:<br /><blockquote>Despite the heat, 60 paramedics and EMTs in Imperial County continue to walk the picket line 24/7 - trying to fight for a pay raise and better health benefits. </blockquote><blockquote>The paramedics union and Gold Cross Ambulance are miles apart and so far, refuse to meet at the bargaining table. </blockquote><blockquote>The strike has gotten so personal, paramedic's wives are also walking the picket line to support their husbands and to let their voices be heard in the community. </blockquote><blockquote>"It's rough. I mean, emotionally, financially. We've been out here everyday." </blockquote><blockquote>Ashleigh Creiglow who's husband, David, has been a paramedic with Gold Cross for five years says - while she's not a paramedic, she too is on strike because it's impacting her and their two children - directly. </blockquote><blockquote>"I'm the only one working I work part-time I have the kids with me when I work."</blockquote>Stand strong!

Gold Cross strikers gain support

Our brothers and sisters from Teamsters Local 542 are standing strong on Day 6 of their strike against Gold Cross Ambulance -- and their fa...

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Fodor's: '4 U.S. road trips to take before you die' includes one close to home

Only four destination roads are listed in the group of <a href="http://www.fodors.com/news/4-us-road-trips-to-take-before-you-die-6995.html">"4 U.S. road trips to take before you die"</a> from Fodor's, the travel people, and since one is right here in Virginia, there's no reason not to hop on and go!<br /><br />Travel writer Jimmy Im includes the Blue Ridge Parkway as one of those four coveted road trips:<br /><span class="blog-text"></span><br /><h2><span class="blog-text">Blue Ridge Parkway: Virginia to North Carolina</span></h2><span class="blog-text"><img alt="blue-ridge-pkwy-nc.jpg" height="300" src="http://www.fodors.com/wire/blue-ridge-pkwy-nc.jpg" width="452" /><b> </b></span><br /><span class="blog-text"><b>Distance: </b>470 miles<br /><br /> Road trippers can expect lush forestry and some majestic mountains on the <a href="http://www.fodors.com/world/north-america/usa/north-carolina/the-north-carolina-mountains/blue-ridge-parkway/">Blue Ridge Parkway</a>, a 470-mile drive connecting <a href="http://www.fodors.com/world/north-america/usa/virginia/central-and-western-virginia/shenandoah-national-park/">Shenandoah National Park</a> in Virginia and the <a href="http://www.fodors.com/world/north-america/usa/tennessee/great-smoky-mtns-national-park/">Great Smoky Mountains National Park</a> in North Carolina. While it averages roughly 10 hours to drive, plenty of highlights along the way ensure you'll want to take several days to explore the route. Locals call the Blue Ridge Parkway a "window" to the region as several cultural and unique towns are right off the highway.<br /><br /> Visitors stop for a photo opp at the Humpback Rocks in Blue Ridge, VA, a natural rock outcrop that has a storied history. Nearby is the <a href="http://www.fodors.com/world/north-america/usa/virginia/central-and-western-virginia/review-166229.html">Natural Bridge of Virginia</a> in Rockbridge Country, one of the oldest tourist destinations in the country and constantly voted as one of America's best natural wonders. Stop in Roanoke, the largest metropolitan city along the route, to visit charming farmer's markets. <br /><br /> Several attractions await in <a href="http://www.fodors.com/world/north-america/usa/north-carolina/the-north-carolina-mountains/blowing-rock/">Blowing Rock</a>, North Carolina, but a road tripper's favorite is the actual Blowing Rock itself, a cliff looming 4,000 feet above sea level, harboring magnificent views of Hawksbill Mountain and Table Rock. For the mother of all views, stop at <a href="http://www.fodors.com/world/north-america/usa/north-carolina/the-north-carolina-mountains/blue-ridge-parkway/activities_h2447231_hiking.html">Waterrock Knob</a>, which, at 7,000-feet high, showcases breathtaking mountain views.</span>

4 US road trips to take before you die Blue Ridge Mountains Blue Ridge Parkway Fodor's getaways Jimmy In Lynn R. Mitchell North Carolina Virginia Fodor's: '4 U.S. road trips to take before you die' includes one close to home

Only four destination roads are listed in the group of "4 U.S. road trips to take before you die" from Fodor's, the travel pe...

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Hot off the press ... newest Pineapple and Coconut political cartoon

At <i>Virginia Politics On Demand</i> ... <a href="http://vapolitics.us/2013/08/shut-down-the-government/">Shut down the government....</a>

Kurt Michael Pineapple and Coconut political cartoon Republicans shut down government Virginia Politics On Demand Hot off the press ... newest Pineapple and Coconut political cartoon

At Virginia Politics On Demand ... Shut down the government....

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First Digital Camera with Android Operating System by Nikon's

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2IOLsTl_OJpPSaSdatC57rOczUbSO3V7SShq7zhic2HCPCgMf1sZ4QCsdMI17dBsEytAAM9zq4uV0eJLKTfZiH6RTB8xKTvxEmFboJsC6hmWF8cqegPpJvWK5K_0h0tll0iqzgGS6Bk-K/s1600/120822070258-nikon-coolpix-s800c-camera-with-android-story-top.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2IOLsTl_OJpPSaSdatC57rOczUbSO3V7SShq7zhic2HCPCgMf1sZ4QCsdMI17dBsEytAAM9zq4uV0eJLKTfZiH6RTB8xKTvxEmFboJsC6hmWF8cqegPpJvWK5K_0h0tll0iqzgGS6Bk-K/s1600/120822070258-nikon-coolpix-s800c-camera-with-android-story-top.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />You have listen about smartphones with digi cam functionality. But have you listen about digi cam with smartphone functionality?<br />Thanks to new Nikon's point-and-shoot camera which is powered with Android operating system.<br /><br />Earlier when camera was introduced in cellphones, then camera company's were not shocked and stunned much, because that camera was of very low resolution quality, does not have the facility of interchangeable lenses, doesn't have much sensors and not any facility of manual controls. These cellphones also doesn't have facility like high-ISO for low-light shooting, megazoom, and rugged bodies for the outdoors.<br /><br />But after the introduction of Android and windows phones in market with a very high resolution camera and many other vast features, people started to spend on good smartphones which provide multi-functionality  in a single device in comparison to digital cameras which provide only shooting facility.<br /><br />So Nickon launched $350 Coolpix S800c  new camera which will go ahead and left behind these smartphones very soon.<br /><br />It has 3.5 inch touch screen that enables users to access Google Play Store where user can download more apps for their camera, including editing tools and social networking sites like Twitter, Facebook etc. It doesn't have cellular connection but have Wi-Fi connectivity for sharing pictures and data.The camera also allows user to use all the android applications like sending mails, browsing internet, listening music and playing games etc.<br /><br />The camera also has features like -  10X zoom, can shoot 1080p videos, and GPS and maps for tagging with locations. It has fully automated controls with no manual controls. The S800c is running Android 2.3, known as Gingerbread.<br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;">Nickon is the first to launch Android camera and thats why also left behind Samsung and Sony by combining features of smartphone and camera.</span></span><br /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;"><br /></span><br /><br /></div>

First Digital Camera with Android Operating System by Nikon's

You have listen about smartphones with digi cam functionality. But have you listen about digi cam with smartphone functionality? Thanks to n...

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The Sappy Post

This is the one where I'm just a sappy mess because there's nothing better to do lol<br /><br />I love y'all<br /><br />Seriously<br /><br />I've gotten really close to some of you.  Met one of you IRL and so so so almost close to meeting another - next time!!!<br /><br />It makes me happy that you choose to share your lives with the world and let us in.<br /><br />I hate it's got to be so private and impersonal - while being extremely personal at the same time. <br /><br />Sometimes I wish my life was more interesting so there was something better to share.  Other times I'm glad I'm so boring :-)<br /><br />Been down in the dumps more often than not lately.  I want more from my life, more from my marriage, more from myself, more more more.  Oh, the golden goose too while you're at it.  But it could be worse, could be way horribly worse. <br /><br />I like having you around.  Even though you're not.  I just like being let in and part of your lives.<br /><br />So thanks.<br /><br /><br />

The Sappy Post

This is the one where I'm just a sappy mess because there's nothing better to do lol I love y'all Seriously I've gotten real...

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Logitech introduced ultrathin keyboard for iPad mini.

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><br /><br /><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Now you can write mails and messages on your iPad with the help of a mini keyboard that could be attached with your iPad. This new product introduced by Logitech and named Ultrathin mini keyboard. It is not just a keyboard but also works as a cover as well as stand for your iPad. Now you can get this gadget from stores. This device is also available for iPad 2, iPad 3 (3^rd and 4^th generation).</span></span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><br /><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;"></span><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-92WdIO7XbUc/Ufvnp9KK9kI/AAAAAAAAAIc/MiFzdpRNeNk/s1600/ultrathin-keyboard-mini-gallery-2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;"><img border="0" height="194" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-92WdIO7XbUc/Ufvnp9KK9kI/AAAAAAAAAIc/MiFzdpRNeNk/s320/ultrathin-keyboard-mini-gallery-2.png" width="320" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">source: Logitech.com</td></tr></tbody></table></span></span> </div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Specification:</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The Ultrathin keyboard mini is not only working as an input device but also protect the screen of your iPad. Powerful magnetic clips will be used to attach keyboard securely to your iPad mini. It is a light weight (280g) device, one third weight of your iPad. You have two  choice of colour variants, Black and White. The price of this mini key board is just Rs 6,795.</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Your iPad mini will wakes and sleep when you open and close the cover respectively. You can only charge the keyboard using the USB cable. Company claims up to 6 months of battery life on a full charge if you use of two hours per day. Short cut keys like copy, paste, undo are also available on the key board to save your time and works faster. The keyboard is powered by Bluetooth Easy type skill.</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">At the launching function Subrotah Biswas, director of Logitech India and South West Asia said, “<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">We are excited to introduce the Logitech Ultrathin Keyboard mini as a perfect companion for your iPad mini. Its durable 7-inch design and full size keys help you make the most of you iPad mini experience.</i>”</span><a href="http://www.blogger.com/null" name="_GoBack"></a><o:p></o:p></span></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://plus.google.com/100638775997274345522" rel="author">Anil Swami</a></div></div>

Bluetooth iPad keyboard. price Logitech introduced ultrathin keyboard for iPad mini.

Now you can write mails and messages on your iPad with the help of a mini keyboard that could be attached with your iPad. This new product i...

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McKesson shareholders reject CEO pay

<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAPFEaVYee_GMBSNbT7IZyw_iJvmKayUIEVsQJAQ7FnPhIq3aHRMMU1drO6WlPcamsZFrcTz1NzdD9qKyWhVEhee7e0dGbP5XTqDPRmNmJ5kvyb_Z_I6kFXgv3E1wcna5teQhA5saCPgyQ/s1600/glenn+gray+at+mckesson+rally.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAPFEaVYee_GMBSNbT7IZyw_iJvmKayUIEVsQJAQ7FnPhIq3aHRMMU1drO6WlPcamsZFrcTz1NzdD9qKyWhVEhee7e0dGbP5XTqDPRmNmJ5kvyb_Z_I6kFXgv3E1wcna5teQhA5saCPgyQ/s400/glenn+gray+at+mckesson+rally.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Teamster Glenn Gray, McKesson warehouse worker</td></tr></tbody></table>Shareholders said “no more” to a pharmaceutical distribution company lavishing extravagant wages on its CEO while paying its workers so little they can’t afford health care.<br /><br />At the <a href="http://www.reuters.com/article/2013/07/31/us-mckesson-pay-idUSBRE96U0X920130731" rel="nofollow">McKesson annual meeting</a> in San Francisco on Wednesday, shareholders sent a resounding message that they’ve had enough with the company’s excessive pay packages for its CEO. A majority vote by the shareholders rejected the CEO’s compensation package and approved a shareholder proposal to strengthen the executive pay clawback policy. The proposed<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Clawback" rel="nofollow"> clawback policy</a> would allow the company to recoup some of the boss’s pay if it is discovered the pay was based on inaccurate financial reporting or misconduct.<br /><br />McKesson has had to pay out nearly a billion dollars to settle allegations of price fixing and Medicaid fraud. The scandal happened during John Hammergren’s tenure as chief executive. Still, the board richly rewarded him with roughly $50 million a year in total compensation.  His pension, valued at $159 million, is likely the <a href="http://blogs.marketwatch.com/encore/2013/06/25/a-ceo-pension-package-worth-159-million/" rel="nofollow">highest for any executive in history</a> according to compensation consultants interviewed by the Wall St. Journal.<br /><br />Perhaps even more shameful than the CEO’s pay is the workers’ pay. Glenn Gray, a 10-year McKesson employee from Lakeland, Fla., stood up at the meeting to tell the CEO that the pay for McKesson workers in his distribution center is so low that many of his co-workers cannot even afford to pay for their healthcare. “Most cannot even afford to set aside one percent of their paycheck into their 401 (k),” he said.<br /><br />Workers at the Lakeland facility voted for Teamster representation nearly two years ago and still don’t have a first contract.  The company has hired union busters and retaliated against workers who support the union. At a rally outside the San Francisco shareholder meeting, Teamster leaders pledged the solidarity of Teamster members throughout North America to support the fight of McKesson’s workers in Florida.<br /> <br /><a href="http://www.teamsterslocal337.com/" rel="nofollow">Teamsters Local 337</a> in Detroit has represented McKesson employees for nearly two decades. “McKesson employees work hard and they deserve to earn a decent wage and have affordable health care and a safe work environment,” said Teamsters Local 337 President Mike Martin.<br /><br />Steve Vairma, Teamsters international vice president and director of the union’s <a href="http://www.teamster.org/content/warehouse" rel="nofollow">Warehouse division</a>, said, “McKesson Teamster members from 13 local unions across North America have put the company on notice that an injury to one Teamster is an injury to all. If McKesson wants to wage war on its Florida workers, it’s going to find itself fighting all of us.”<br /><br />“This company profits off the hard work of some 1500 Teamsters employed at McKesson distribution centers as well as off the billions of dollars in prescription drug purchases made by Teamster families through our affiliated health funds and their pharmacy benefit managers,” said Ken Wood, international vice president of the <a href="http://teamster.org/" rel="nofollow">Teamsters union</a>. Wood’s<a href="http://teamsterslocal79.org/"> local union</a> represents the Lakeland employees.  Inside the meeting, he warned, “I will not stand silently by and allow a company like McKesson to use the hard earned assets of Teamster affiliated health funds to hire union busters and undermine workers’ rights.”<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPAbCS9iOgg5L3tOtZcxgSfLThfR7G-u0RIBjN9aqC3Ryj54FMQ8LzFPy-oCc7GCtRozjCNYMXazTbUCd9YR8U5dgzWkxN0SYAWYnVUfX5L18g7cpFv4xe17ZrEgQRR6FLTE57U8GkAJIY/s1600/McKesson+Teamster+rally.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPAbCS9iOgg5L3tOtZcxgSfLThfR7G-u0RIBjN9aqC3Ryj54FMQ8LzFPy-oCc7GCtRozjCNYMXazTbUCd9YR8U5dgzWkxN0SYAWYnVUfX5L18g7cpFv4xe17ZrEgQRR6FLTE57U8GkAJIY/s400/McKesson+Teamster+rally.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Teamsters rally outside McKesson shareholder meeting on Wednesday. </td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br />

McKesson shareholders reject CEO pay

Teamster Glenn Gray, McKesson warehouse worker Shareholders said “no more” to a pharmaceutical distribution company lavishing extravagant wa...

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HOW CAN WE ATTRACT YOUNG PEOPLE?: PART TWO

After the provocative post by Rachel Held Evans, which I discussed in my recent post <i>How Can We Attract Young People</i>, there have been a lot of folks who know more that I do weighing in on the question. Two of the good ones are below. They have some valuable insights well worth the attention of church leaders.<br /><br />I latched onto the importance of:<br /><br />Authenticity<br />Being part of the world -- substantively, not via gimmicks<br />"Young adults" wanting to be valued -- but not as a commodity that will save the church<br /><br />http://amychanson.blogspot.com/2013/06/what-young-people-want-in-church.html<br /><br />http://www.religiondispatches.org/archive/sexandgender/7227/a_reluctant_millennial_on_the_state_of_church/<br /><br />

HOW CAN WE ATTRACT YOUNG PEOPLE?: PART TWO

After the provocative post by Rachel Held Evans, which I discussed in my recent post How Can We Attract Young People , there have been a lot...

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Despicable smear artist attacks fast-food strikers

<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBMfrGlXapycxRV2XEurFWYEVR-VIMGArtN6bY-PvUQXQqzQkVtxrQWsuJiFZIZaUTOYdBEPwY7cG7VxQKdgylHO5VUXn6dfma9iAp2ZhxDaX7dt9h-xg7z21koCdxFGybQ9dsQeAhMHF9/s1600/fast+food+strikers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBMfrGlXapycxRV2XEurFWYEVR-VIMGArtN6bY-PvUQXQqzQkVtxrQWsuJiFZIZaUTOYdBEPwY7cG7VxQKdgylHO5VUXn6dfma9iAp2ZhxDaX7dt9h-xg7z21koCdxFGybQ9dsQeAhMHF9/s400/fast+food+strikers.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr></tbody></table>Our old enemy, the despicable smear artist <a href="http://bermanexposed.org/" rel="nofollow">Rick Berman</a>, is back, making up crap on Fox News to discredit fast-food strikers.<br /><br />Berman is a shill for the restaurant industry, which is clearly spooked by the thousands of<a href="http://teamsternation.blogspot.com/2013/08/low-wage-workers-in-Chicago-Milwaukee-Seattle-walk-off-jobs.html"> fast-food strikers</a> who've elicited broad public outrage over their poverty wages and abuse at work. The fast-food strikers want higher wages and an end to retaliation for trying to form a union.<br /><br />This week, fast-food workers walked off the job in a wave of one-day strikes, first in New York, then in St. Louis, Kansas City, Chicago, Detroit, Flint, Milwaukee and Seattle. Workers who hadn't planned on joining the fast-food strikers suddenly decided to join them. Scabs refused to cross picket lines, according to Bud Meyers at <a href="http://www.economicpopulist.org/content/low-pay-keeps-millennials-stuck-home5319" rel="nofollow">The Economic Populist</a>.<br /><br />Berman is an old corporate hit man whose own son has called him despicable. This is what <span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 16.890625px;"> </span><a href="http://ethanbeute.com/wordpress/like-son-dont-like-father-berman/" rel="nofollow" style="background-color: white; color: #336699; font-family: Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 16.890625px;">he has said about dear old dad</a><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 16.890625px;">: </span><br /><blockquote class="tr_bq" style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 16.890625px; margin: 1em 20px;">“My father is a despicable man.  My father is a sort of human molestor.  An exploiter.  A scoundrel.  A world historical motherf*cking son of a b*itch.  (sorry grandma)”<br /><br />“He props up fast food/soda/factory farming/childhood obesity and diabetes/drunk driving/secondhand smoke.</blockquote><blockquote class="tr_bq" style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 16.890625px; margin: 1em 20px;">He attacks animal lovers, ecologists, civil action attorneys, scientists, dieticians, doctors, teachers.</blockquote>Meyers has more about Berman's recent appearance on Fox News:<br /><blockquote class="tr_bq">Recently on July 29th, on the Fox News business channel, host Stuart Varney interviewed Richard Berman of the Employment Policies Institute to provide a "critical analysis" of the walk outs. Berman dismissed the idea of raising fast food employee wages, claiming that a hike in pay would result in lower employment: </blockquote><blockquote class="tr_bq">"The business model just does not support those kind of wages. If people are feeling that they are not being paid adequately, then they have got to find a job someplace else." </blockquote><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpbMgZFVxYJhIPUzT2FSkVJ0DUom6uIZv3p8kaiE1r-GXs7M2Sw0mxvkD5j0ug5q0RPcLFeGJwsgyvX7PJZr6pg3eUrJltBgixALY_FSIhGmQKhdbUky9LnsHLO4hnq77Ourov_-U5f5SC/s1600/rick+berman.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpbMgZFVxYJhIPUzT2FSkVJ0DUom6uIZv3p8kaiE1r-GXs7M2Sw0mxvkD5j0ug5q0RPcLFeGJwsgyvX7PJZr6pg3eUrJltBgixALY_FSIhGmQKhdbUky9LnsHLO4hnq77Ourov_-U5f5SC/s1600/rick+berman.jpg" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Berman</td></tr></tbody></table><blockquote class="tr_bq">Berman, a corporate lobbyist, did not disclose his organization's ties to the fast food industry. According to <a href="http://www.citizensforethics.org/" rel="nofollow">Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington</a>, the Employment Policies Institute is one of many front groups associated with Berman which provides political cover for clients in the restaurant, hospitality, alcohol, and tobacco industries. Berman specializes in a so-called "aggressive media outreach" approach intended to "change the debate" in favor of major clients. </blockquote><blockquote class="tr_bq">Berman, who says the fast-food industry can't support paying $15 an hour, is trying to convince the general public that this raises the incentive for fast-food businesses to replace workers with some automated method of preparing, serving and selling fast-food via an iPad. According to the Employment Policies Institute's 2011 990 form, Berman is paid $1.16 million to use scare tactics to convince others that they aren't worth $15 an hour.</blockquote>It's the same old story of powerful corporations trying to crush their workers using devious means. Let's hope the fast-food strikers can write a new chapter with a happier ending.<br /><br />

fast food strikes low-wage workers Despicable smear artist attacks fast-food strikers

Our old enemy, the despicable smear artist Rick Berman , is back, making up crap on Fox News to discredit fast-food strikers. Berman is a sh...

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Clerk - New Britain Public Library

<strong>Clerk - </strong><strong><strong><span style="color: #48286d;">New Britain Public Library</span></strong></strong>. 20 hour Clerk I position to work in Circulation area. $12.56/hr. Full posting @ <a _fcksavedurl="http://www.nbpl.info" href="http://www.nbpl.info/" target="_blank">www.nbpl.info</a>; high school diploma or GED required. Application or resume & letter, 3 work-related references to Administration, New Britain Public Library, 20 High St., New Britain, CT 06051. No phone calls please. EOE.

Clerk - New Britain Public Library

Clerk - New Britain Public Library . 20 hour Clerk I position to work in Circulation area. $12.56/hr. Full posting @ www.nbpl.info ; high ...

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What Lies Ahead for the Future of the Wildlife Professional?

An interesting article on the future of the wildlife management profession.<br /><br /><a href="http://newswatch.nationalgeographic.com/2013/07/12/what-lies-ahead-for-the-future-of-the-wildlife-professional/#.UfvDDGq-3XM.blogger">What Lies Ahead for the Future of the Wildlife Professional?</a>

What Lies Ahead for the Future of the Wildlife Professional?

An interesting article on the future of the wildlife management profession. What Lies Ahead for the Future of the Wildlife Professional?

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6 week weigh in results

Are you ready?????  Here we are.  Starting weight was 293.  2 weeks ago I was at 275 at 18 pounds lost with belviq.  Today, I am at........well, watch for yourself!!<br /><br /><br /><br /><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="280" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/xo-AKi9VmdU?feature=player_embedded" width="380"></iframe><br /><br />That's right folks, I met my weigh in goal to BE UNDER 270 pounds!!!!!!  I am at 269.8 (BARELY but we will take it) for a totally weight loss of 23.2 pounds.  But, it's really a little lower as you heard us talk about my dress .<br /><br />We did confirm that the dress I am wearing, because of the material, weighed 1.5 pounds.   So technically, I am down to 268.3ish pounds for a total loss of 24.7 pounds but I couldn't video myself in the nude HAHA!<br /><br />Actually, I am claiming the 24.7 pounds - rounding to 25 pounds.  We verified that the dress is heavy (ruffles made with extra fabric) and it was a poor choice on my end - next time I will know. <br /><br />SO you can take the official or the unofficial.  I mean, by the end of the weekend I'd be at the 25 anyway hahahaha!  <br /><br />For me, I met TWO of my goals:  1, under 270 and 25 pounds lost.  1/2 There to my bigger goal of 50 pounds.  I AM SOOOOO excited!!!!!  ALL in 6 WEEKS.  <br />   <br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />

6 week weigh in results

Are you ready?????  Here we are.  Starting weight was 293.  2 weeks ago I was at 275 at 18 pounds lost with belviq.  Today, I am at........w...

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‘If This Was Your Mother, Doctor…’ - NYT

<p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px"><p>The other residents and I sat in our blue scrubs with our attending physician in the windowless family meeting room just outside the intensive care unit. We had gathered around one end of the ovoid table with the family of the patient, two daughters and a son, at the other. </p><p>The patient was an elderly woman, admitted to our unit just a few hours before, with a breathing machine keeping her alive. We proceeded with the meeting as we were trained to do. We kept our elbows off the table, maintained eye contact (but not too much eye contact) and gave the family an update of where we stood. </p><p>A healthy family meeting, we'd been told, involved us speaking for about half the time, with the family speaking for the rest – venting, questioning, grieving and hoping, in no particular order. This meeting, though, was dominated by long periods of silence that unearthed the dull, low-pitched drone in the background. </p><p>The son, quiet for most of the meeting, broke the silence and, with a hint of anger and a big dollop of frustration, asked the one question I had dreaded being asked the most: "Doc, give it to me straight. If this were your mother, what would you do?" </p><p>While the patient-doctor interaction varies widely across cultures and continents, this question seems to be a universal constant. As a medical student in Pakistan, I had heard it often, and even after hours of preparation, never felt prepared to answer. As a wobbly newcomer to clinical medicine, it left me feeling vulnerable and violated.</p><p>From a patient or family member's perspective, though, this question helps them make sense of the confusion, desolation and powerlessness that so often defines the hospital experience, which usually involves a full-on assault of numbers, jargon and 'expert' opinion. They are confronted with difficult choices, like whether they want to go ahead with a particular high-risk procedure or wait for the tincture of time to kick in.</p><p>Overwhelmed and confused, it makes sense they would defer the choice to someone who appears to know what they are doing. And by invoking the physician's parent, they hope to humanize the physician and have a conversation with real stakes. </p><p>Yet I still find this question hard to answer. See, my mother is the sort of person who spends two hours each day on the treadmill, even during vacations, so that she can eat to her heart's content. Often described as a "fighter," any additional moment she could spend with her children or future grandchildren would be worth the extra mile. My father, on the other hand, is someone who avoids getting his blood sugar level tested to evade medications, dreaming of spending his last days in the quiet serenity of the village he grew up in. Thus my answer to the question would be very different, as it would be for anyone, depending on which parent you asked me about. </p><p>So I have come to believe that the right answer to the question, "If this were your mother, doctor…" is: "Tell me more about your mother." </p><p>This response gives patients' families the chance to think about their loved ones, about what they would value and what they would consider a good life, what they would think was worth fighting for if they were available to answer the question for themselves. </p><p>The burden that family members feel when making medical decisions as proxies, whether a loved one has dementia or is so sick or confused they can't participate meaningfully in decision making, is immense. But this response often helps to diffuse that. It takes them away from a place where they feel solely responsible for the trajectory of their relative's life to one where they simply communicate what the patient would want out of their life. We as physicians can then weigh in on whether it is reasonable to expect that to happen.</p><p>So I asked the family who was sitting across the table from me, "Tell me more about your mother." </p><p>And then, slowly, the family started sharing stories of the woman we had met only met a few hours before, unconscious and intubated. She loved being independent, would hate for people to open doors for her or hold her hand as she tried to get up, they told us. She loved the sun, the beach. She loved walking, loved being out and about. She would never, ever want to go to a nursing home. Never ever. They pulled out a picture of her lounging on a chair, sipping lemonade. </p><p>We then told them that based on a combination of her vital signs and lab values, as well as our clinical judgment, that while we could hope for some progress, it would likely not be enough to allow her any real shot at experiencing life outside a nursing facility again. </p><p>The daughters shared another glance with their brother. Their shoulders were now less tense, their eyes less teary. The room seemed to be filled with memories of a woman who had lived life well. They turned to us and asked us to make her comfortable, and to turn off the breathing machine. </p> <hr><p><em>Haider Javed Warraich is a resident in internal medicine and Katherine Swan Ginsburg Fellow in Humanism at the Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center in Boston and author of the novel "Auras of the Jinn."</em></p></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px"><br></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px"><a href="http://well.blogs.nytimes.com/2013/08/01/if-this-was-your-mother-doctor/">http://well.blogs.nytimes.com/2013/08/01/if-this-was-your-mother-doctor/</a></p>

‘If This Was Your Mother, Doctor…’ - NYT

The other residents and I sat in our blue scrubs with our attending physician in the windowless family meeting room just outside the int...

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Living in Zurich

For the last week and a half I was in Zurich, Switzerland, for World-Architects, checking out some new architecture in the evenings after work. Many of the buildings I happened to look at were recent housing projects, primarily middle-class developments just west of central Zurich. Below are eight of those projects, with links to the architects' websites and more of my photos on Flickr.<br /><br /><a href="http://graberpulver.ch/index.php/projects/siedlung-grunmatt" rel="nofollow">Siedlung Grünmatt FGZ</a> (2014) in Zurich, Switzerland, by Graber Pulver.<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/archidose/9410085348/" title="Siedlung Grünmatt FGZ by archidose, on Flickr"><img alt="Siedlung Grünmatt FGZ" height="480" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5495/9410085348_585c7f7484_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />[See more <a href="http://www.flickr.com/search/?q=siedlunggr%C3%BCnmattfgz&w=archidose&adv=1&mt=all&ct=6&m=tags">photos at Flickr</a>]<br /><br /><a href="http://www.em2n.ch/projects/neufrankengasse" rel="nofollow">Housing Neufrankengasse</a> (2013) in Zurich, Switzerland, by EM2N.<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/archidose/9390351645/" title="Housing Neufrankengasse by archidose, on Flickr"><img alt="Housing Neufrankengasse" height="800" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7396/9390351645_3a98a710fe_c.jpg" width="575" /></a><br />[See more <a href="http://www.flickr.com/search/?q=housingneufrankengasse&w=archidose&adv=1&mt=all&ct=6&m=tags">photos at Flickr</a>]<br /><br /><a href="http://www.maerkliarchitekt.ch/solo.php?lang=de&id=686144300" rel="nofollow">Gutstrasse Wohnüberbauung</a> (2013) in Zurich, Switzerland, by Märkli Architekt.<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/archidose/9407418775/" title="Gutstrasse Wohnüberbauung by archidose, on Flickr"><img alt="Gutstrasse Wohnüberbauung" height="622" src="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2827/9407418775_99693b1edb_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />[See more <a href="http://www.flickr.com/search/?q=gutstrassewohn%C3%BCberbauung&w=archidose&adv=1&mt=all&ct=6&m=tags">photos at Flickr</a>]<br /><br /><a href="http://www.burkhalter-sumi.ch/projects/sunnigehof" rel="nofollow">Sunnige Hof</a> (2012) in Zurich, Switzerland, by Burkhalter Sumi Architekten.<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/archidose/9410326070/" title="Sunnige Hof by archidose, on Flickr"><img alt="Sunnige Hof" height="633" src="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2894/9410326070_b6aa50843a_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />[See more <a href="http://www.flickr.com/search/?q=sunnigehof&w=archidose&adv=1&mt=all&ct=6&m=tags">photos at Flickr</a>]<br /><br /><a href="http://www.vbk-arch.ch/preview-detail/items/084-ersatzneubauten-triemli-zuerich.html" rel="nofollow">Ersatzneubauten Triemli Zürich</a> (2011) by Von Ballmoos Krucker Architekten.<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/archidose/9389544167/" title="Ersatzneubauten Triemli Zürich by archidose, on Flickr"><img alt="Ersatzneubauten Triemli Zürich" height="480" src="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2841/9389544167_a8a98d39ec_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />[See more <a href="http://www.flickr.com/search/?q=ersatzneubautentriemlizuerich&w=archidose&adv=1&mt=all&ct=6&m=tags">photos at Flickr</a>]<br /><br /><a href="http://www.swiss-architects.com/de/althammer-hochuli/projekte-3/-33335" rel="nofollow">Wohnüberbauung Wasserschöpfi</a> (2011) in Zurich, Switzerland, by Althammer Hochuli.<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/archidose/9401165352/" title="Wohnüberbauung Wasserschöpfi by archidose, on Flickr"><img alt="Wohnüberbauung Wasserschöpfi" height="427" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3687/9401165352_2ff7f942c5_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />[See more <a href="http://www.flickr.com/search/?q=wohn%C3%BCberbauungwassersch%C3%B6pfi&w=archidose&adv=1&mt=all&ct=6&m=tags">photos at Flickr</a>]<br /><br /><a href="http://www.camenzindevolution.com/News/KISS" rel="nofollow">K.I.S.S.</a> (2011) in Zurich, Switzerland by Camenzid Evolution.<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/archidose/9394271283/" title="K.I.S.S. by archidose, on Flickr"><img alt="K.I.S.S." height="640" src="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2877/9394271283_f1eb69e1bc_z.jpg" width="632" /></a><br />[See more <a href="http://www.flickr.com/search/?q=kiss&w=archidose&adv=1&mt=all&ct=6&m=tags">photos at Flickr</a>]<br /><br /><a href="http://www.gmuergeschwentner.ch/gebaute-projekte/new-project-page/" rel="nofollow">James</a> (2009) in Zurich, Switzerland, by Gmür & Geschwentner Architekten AG.<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/archidose/9410446902/" title="James by archidose, on Flickr"><img alt="James" height="481" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7362/9410446902_007ed8a1e1_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />[See more <a href="http://www.flickr.com/search/?q=gm%C3%BCrgeschwentnerarchitektenag&w=archidose&adv=1&mt=all&ct=6&m=tags">photos at Flickr</a>]

Living in Zurich

For the last week and a half I was in Zurich, Switzerland, for World-Architects, checking out some new architecture in the evenings after wo...

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U.S. House schedule for Friday, August 2, 2013

<a href="http://majorityleader.gov/"><i>From Majority Leader Eric Cantor....</i></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><u><b>FRIDAY, AUGUST 2ND </b></u><br />On Friday, the House will meet at 9:00 a.m. for legislative business. First votes expected: 9:15 - 10:45 a.m. Last votes expected: 12:00 - 1:00 p.m.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><b>One Minute Speeches</b><br /><br /><b>Complete Consideration of <a href="http://republicanleaderforms.house.gov/Components/Redirect/r.aspx?ID=353936-6846703" target="_blank">H.R. 367</a></b> - Regulations From the Executive in Need of Scrutiny Act of 2013 (Structured Rule) <i>(Sponsored by Rep. Todd Young / Judiciary Committee)</i><br /><blockquote>Postponed Amendment Votes (no more amendments may be offered to the bill):</blockquote><blockquote><blockquote><b>Rep. Steve Scalise Amendment <br /> Rep. Jason Smith Amendment <br /> Rep. Tom Latham Amendment <br /> Rep. Jerry Nadler Amendment <br /> Rep. Hank Johnson Amendment <br /> Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee Amendment <br /> Rep. Gwen Moore Amendment</b></blockquote></blockquote><a href="http://republicanleaderforms.house.gov/Components/Redirect/r.aspx?ID=353938-6846703" target="_blank"><b>H.R. 2009</b></a> - Keep the IRS Off Your Health Care Act of 2013 (Closed Rule, One Hour of Debate) <i>(Sponsored by Rep. Tom Price / Ways and Means Committee)</i><br /><br /><b>Special Order Speeches</b><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><u><b>COMMITTEE ACTIVITY OF THE DAY </b></u><br />Natural Resources Subcommittee on Energy & Mineral Resources hearing on ”<a href="http://republicanleaderforms.house.gov/Components/Redirect/r.aspx?ID=353939-6846703" target="_blank">Preventing Government Waste & Protecting Coal Mining Jobs in America Act</a>” (Friday, August 2nd, at 10:00 a.m.)</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><a href="http://republicanleaderforms.house.gov/Components/Redirect/r.aspx?ID=353940-6846703" target="_blank">Printable PDF</a>

Congress Eric Cantor U.S. House of Representatives U.S. House schedule for Friday, August 2, 2013

From Majority Leader Eric Cantor.... FRIDAY, AUGUST 2ND On Friday, the House will meet at 9:00 a.m. for legislative business. First votes e...

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Today's Teamster News 08.02.13

<a href="http://www.philly.com/philly/news/20130801_Unions_strike_at_Convention_Center.html" rel="nofollow">Teamsters Strike at  Pennsylvania Convention Center</a>  Philadelphia Inquirer   ...Trade union members went on strike Thursday at the Pennsylvania Convention Center in a dispute over proposed changes in work rules...<br /><a href="http://www.independent.com/news/2013/jul/31/additional-meetings-mtd-emergency-transit-service-/" rel="nofollow">Additional Meetings for MTD Emergency Transit Service Reduction Plan</a>  Santa Barbara Independent   ...MTD drivers, mechanics, and utility workers are represented by Teamsters Local 186, which has concerns about the impact of California’s Public Employees’ Pension Reform Act of 2013 (PEPRA) on bargaining rights...<br /><a href="http://elmwoodpark.suntimes.com/news/strike-ELM-08082013:article" rel="nofollow">Teamster Funeral home workers near one month on strike at Montclair-Lucania Funeral Home</a>  Pioneer Local   ...Since July 2, funeral home workers have been on the picket line outside the Montclair-Lucania Funeral Home, one of 16 in the Chicago area owned by SCI and managed under the name Dignity Memorial. That’s when he and other members of Teamsters Local 727, made up of funeral directors, embalmers and hearse drivers, voted to go on strike...<br /><a href="http://sanjuancapistrano.patch.com/groups/schools/p/pay-freezes-on-tap-for-some-cusd-employees-not-teachers" rel="nofollow">Pay Freezes on Tap for Some CUSD Employees, Not Teachers</a>  San Juan Capistrano Patch   ...Nonteaching employees won't get their automatic pay raises at all next year, while management and Teamsters will have to wait six months...<br /><a href="http://www.reuters.com/article/2013/07/31/us-mckesson-pay-idUSBRE96U0X920130731" rel="nofollow">McKesson Directors Re-Elected Amid CEO Pay Controversy</a>  Reuters   ...Shareholders re-elected all of McKesson Corp's board members on Wednesday, defying the recommendations of influential proxy advisers and investors who object to the inflated compensation and dual roles of Chairman and CEO John Hammergren...<br /><a href="http://www.islandpacket.com/2013/07/30/2603487/mdot-plans-for-possibility-of.html" rel="nofollow">Maine’s DOT plans for possibility of rail shutdown</a>  Hilton Head Island Packet   ...Contingency planning is underway in case Montreal, Maine & Atlantic Railway stops service following a runaway train explosion and fire that claimed 47 lives just north of the Maine border, state transportation officials said...<br /><a href="http://www.joc.com/regulation-policy/transportation-policy/us-transportation-policy/thud-amendment-targets-new-driver-hours-service-rules_20130731.html" rel="nofollow">THUD Amendment Targets New Driver Hours of Service Rules</a>  Journal of Commerce   ...The latest changes to the <a href="http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/rules-regulations/topics/hos/index.htm">truck driver hours of service rules</a> are being challenged by Rep. Richard Hanna (NY-R), who is expected to introduce an amendment to the Transportation, Housing and Urban Development bill that would block changes to the HOS rules that took effect July 1 from being “implemented, administered or enforced...”<br /><a href="http://www.commondreams.org/view/2013/08/01-3" rel="nofollow">Backyard Shock Doctrine: Wall Street's Destruction Comes Home</a>  Common Dreams   ...Since 2007, the foreclosure crisis has displaced at least 10 million people from more than four million homes across the country...The displaced are young and old, rich and poor, and of every race, ethnicity, and religion.  They add up to approximately the entire population of Michigan...<br /><a href="http://dealbook.nytimes.com/2013/08/01/former-goldman-trader-is-found-liable-in-mortgage-deal/?_r=0" rel="nofollow">Former Trader Is Found Liable In Fraud Case</a>  New York Times   ...Five years after Wall Street risk-taking nearly toppled the economy, the S.E.C. has taken only a handful of employees to court in connection with the crisis; most cases have been settled. The agency has not leveled fraud charges against one top executive at a big bank...<br /><a href="http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2013-07-31/congress-votes-to-end-fixed-interest-for-student-loans.html" rel="nofollow">Congress Votes to End Fixed Interest for Student Loans</a>  Bloomberg   ...The U.S. Congress gave final approval yesterday to a bill that pegs interest on government-sponsored student borrowing to a market-based rate, ensuring that almost 9 million undergraduates will pay 3.86 percent on their next loan...<br /><a href="http://rollingout.com/criminal-behavior/judge-must-serve-28-years-after-making-2-million-for-sending-children-to-jail/" rel="nofollow">Judge to serve 28 years after making $2 million for sending black children to jail</a>  Rolling Out   ...Ciavarella worked alongside owners of private juvenile facilities to ensure that the prison remained occupied. The more prisoners equated to more profits for the owners of the prison. As a result, Ciavarella would sentence offenders with small offenses to months and, at times, years behind bars. He once sentenced a teen to three months in jail for creating a MySpace page that mocked her school’s assistant principal...<br /><a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2013/08/01/business/strike-for-day-seeks-to-raise-fast-food-pay.html?pagewanted=all" rel="nofollow">A Day’s Strike Seeks to Raise Fast-Food Pay</a>   New York Times   ...From New York to several Midwestern cities, thousands of fast-food workers have been holding one-day strikes during peak mealtimes, quickly drawing national attention to their demands for much higher wages...<br /><a href="http://www.cnn.com/2013/07/29/politics/minimum-wage-congress-Obama" rel="nofollow">Despite fast food protests, Congress in no rush on minimum wage</a>  CNN   ...Fast food workers striking for higher wages in seven cities Monday are bound to be disappointed. On their last week before vacation, Congress isn't likely to raise the minimum wage. They're not even close to critical mass on that issue...<br /><a href="http://www.politico.com/story/2013/07/tax-reform-would-fuel-us-economy-95005.html" rel="nofollow">Tax reform would fuel U.S. economy</a> (opinion)  Politico …The current tax rules were fine when U.S. exports dominated a global economy, but they are ill-suited for a digital age of intense competition. While other countries have modernized their international tax systems, the U.S. remains mired in the past. The U.S. tax system isn’t working for American businesses, workers or the economy as a whole...<br /><a href="http://www.afro.com/sections/news/Washington/story.htm?storyid=79292" rel="nofollow">D.C. Baptist Convention Weighs into Battle Against Large Retailers</a>  AFRO   ...Religious leaders have gotten into the fight against large retailers in the District of Columbia in support of ensuring residents of the city are making living wages...<br /><a href="http://www.kvoa.com/news/bus-contract-negotiations/" rel="nofollow">Phoenix Bus Drivers Reject Contract</a>  Associated Press   ...Hundreds of bus drivers overwhelming rejected a proposed labor contract offer from First Transit on Wednesday, setting the stage for a midnight strike that would shut down service in the Phoenix-area...<br /><a href="http://www.gctelegram.com/news/national/AP-KS-SpecialSession-8-1-13" rel="nofollow">Kansas Democrats want to re-examine voting laws</a>  Associated Press  ...Some Wichita Democrats want Kansas legislators to use the special session in September to fix a problem they say exists in the state's new voting laws... <br /><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span>  </div>

Today's Teamster News 08.02.13

Teamsters Strike at  Pennsylvania Convention Center   Philadelphia Inquirer   ...Trade union members went on strike Thursday at the Pennsylv...

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Get A Ripped Body

<div style='font-style:italic;' class='uawbyline'>By Doug Russell</div><br /><br /> <div class='uawarticle'>You want to get ripped quick, right? Well, this article will tell you what you need to know, but keep in mind that these suggestions are for the exerciser that is already in shape. They might be too intense for someone just starting out. But, if you follow these, you'll see results very soon.<br /> <br /> Since you are already in pretty good shape but you just want to see more defined muscles, that's easy. See, your muscles are probably fine. You just need to get them to be released from the amount of fat covering them. You now need to shift some focus onto your diet and cardio.<br /> <br /> If you don't want to have to create your own program, you may want to follow some that are already designed. I suggest <A HREF="http://www.beachbody.com/product/fitness_programs/p90x.do"> P90X</a> or Body for Life. They are both good programs that will give you the results you want. But, if you want to do the thinking for yourself, here are some guidelines:<br /> <br /> 1. Work out six days per week. This regularity helps keep your metabolism high and burning more fat. I suggest to take Sundays off to allow your body to recover from the intense training.<br /> <br /> 2. High intensity weight lifting. Make sure you lift weights to a heavy fatigue. This promotes muscle growth which in turn increases your metabolism even more. Also, larger muscles show through your skin more than smaller ones. These are examples of <A HREF="http://5bestexercises.wordpress.com/">good exercises</a>.<br /> <br /> 3. Water,water, water. If you want to get results, you have to give your cells what they need to flourish, and that's water. I'd suggest a half ounce of water per pound of muscle every day.<br /> <br /> 4. Eat enough protein: If you want the muscles to grow so you can Get Ripped Fast, you need to give them the protein they need to do that. Go to your local nutrition store and buy some whey protein so you can make a protein shake every day.<br /> <br /> 5. Avoid junk food! Instead of all the crap, eat health meals and snacks. You look better and feel better.<br /> <br /> 6. Recover: Allowing your body to recover is as important as training. You can't have one without the other. With that in mind, make sure you get plenty of rest and good long sleep at night.<br /> <br /> That completes a very basic, but fundamental list of guidelines that will help you achieve a ripped body.<br /> <br /> </div><br /> <div class='uawresource'><br /> <div style='font-style:italic;' class='uawabout'><br /> About the Author:<br /> </div><br /> <div class='uawlinks'>5BestExercises.com has a lot more like this, such as <A HREF="http://www.5bestexercises.com/get-ripped-fast/"> Get Ripped</a> Please follow 5BestExercises.com on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/5-Best-Exercises/460587913968689?ref=hl">Facebook</a>.</div><br /> </div><br />

Get A Ripped Body

By Doug Russell You want to get ripped quick, right? Well, this article will tell you what you need to know, but keep in mind that these...

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Daily Education and Technology News for Schools 08/02/2013

<ul class="diigo-linkroll"> <li> <p class="diigo-link"> <a href="http://inside.flipboard.com/2013/07/23/flipboard-magazines-can-now-be-enjoyed-on-the-web/">Flipboard Magazines Can Now Be Enjoyed on the Web | Inside Flipboard</a> </p> <p class="diigo-description">You can now read flipboard on the web! I highly recommend this app.</p> <p class="diigo-tags"> <span>tags:</span> <a href="https://www.diigo.com/user/coolcatteacher/news">news</a> <a href="https://www.diigo.com/user/coolcatteacher/education">education</a> <a href="https://www.diigo.com/user/coolcatteacher/flipboard">flipboard</a></p> </li> </ul><p class="diigo-ps">Posted from <a href='https://www.diigo.com'>Diigo</a>. The rest of my favorite links are <a href='https://www.diigo.com/user/coolcatteacher'>here</a>.</p>

Daily Education and Technology News for Schools 08/02/2013

Flipboard Magazines Can Now Be Enjoyed on the Web | Inside Flipboard You can now read flipboard on t...

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Pastors Need Your Prayers, They Need Their Homes Furnished - and They Need Your Benjamins

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmlHOhgyq-bns7oWDfERMu5IFOZEVN8zPdF3GxXnsHqeTxeSF5XGCW54vF56y-Qh3rxb_qkSPYU8lHooLGRS1M2eh-RkICSHZ-N6jx5dDcGi_ZtuiwqAweVFpri0_s89Xri44cWbDb97VX/s1600/Benjamins2.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="211" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmlHOhgyq-bns7oWDfERMu5IFOZEVN8zPdF3GxXnsHqeTxeSF5XGCW54vF56y-Qh3rxb_qkSPYU8lHooLGRS1M2eh-RkICSHZ-N6jx5dDcGi_ZtuiwqAweVFpri0_s89Xri44cWbDb97VX/s320/Benjamins2.png" width="320" /></a>Hope all of you Watchdog readers are having a wonderful summer. Make no mistake, the Watchdog is still on the job, but just taking a break from writing over the past month. Like some of the high-profile mega church pastors, the Watchdog is on a summer sabbatical to recharge his blogging batteries. The Dog of God has to take a break just like the Man of God, you know!<br /><br />During the Dog Days of summer, I did want to share with you a short post of a few recent examples of what pastors need from you this summer, so you can be sure to help them out. <br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBEgCSde2byJX9gM5skZ5m6XVAeZ0zPfN_8C7-p5ze0JR-49DlTDgxW7aGtXG_zFXh_gkV7tXGsNyhUGyweUbK417W5T56hdaG_65g_CWgMktjpY-tYsH1F_MT5Nz6XKxFKIA9Y4NITTLD/s1600/Turner.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBEgCSde2byJX9gM5skZ5m6XVAeZ0zPfN_8C7-p5ze0JR-49DlTDgxW7aGtXG_zFXh_gkV7tXGsNyhUGyweUbK417W5T56hdaG_65g_CWgMktjpY-tYsH1F_MT5Nz6XKxFKIA9Y4NITTLD/s200/Turner.png" width="188" /></a><u><b>"It's All About the Benjamins"</b></u>: Josh Turner and the pastors at <a href="http://www.celebration.org/" target="_blank">Celebration Church</a> here in Jacksonville need your benjamins. Last night with a giant "It's All About the BENJAMINS" graphic behind him (for those of you who don't know, a "benjamin" is a $100 bill) - Josh preached to the college students the importance of forking over 10% of their life's income to the church so they can be blessed and not cursed. Josh even managed to make fun of a woman who actually took them up on their "money back guarantee" offer - a woman who I know and who did need her money back and went through the humiliation of having to ask for it. I used to think that pastors tried to hide the fact that what is most important is the money - but Josh and the leadership at Celebration are now apparently open and honest: "It's All About the Benjamins" as you see in the photo above taken last night. To these preachers what matters most is the dollars - you prove your faith to them by forking over 10 cents on the dollar. Seeing this reminded me of Ed Young's <a href="https://vimeo.com/16359090" target="_blank">"Show me the Money" sermon disaster in 2010</a>.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSCqjn55G9OszCYWd2Ag08Ik8XYDdISQkkPNEHfsayObqvLGrQiFicgohMSZ39aZSkHP7weh8J13Q7mzt6ZxW76OYwv_4SD8Dzi5n1zAPBn2yK290gO9hOFcbhOO7wwLuEXFZdF9cIOXzR/s1600/Crosby.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSCqjn55G9OszCYWd2Ag08Ik8XYDdISQkkPNEHfsayObqvLGrQiFicgohMSZ39aZSkHP7weh8J13Q7mzt6ZxW76OYwv_4SD8Dzi5n1zAPBn2yK290gO9hOFcbhOO7wwLuEXFZdF9cIOXzR/s1600/Crosby.png" /></a></div><u><b>"Preacher Needs House Furnished"</b></u>: While Josh is trying to rack up the Benjamins, another pastor in Waycross, Georgia is trying to rack up the home furnishings. Remember Danny "<a href="http://fbcjaxwatchdog.blogspot.com/2011/10/new-minister-at-fbc-jax-piously-tells.html" target="_blank">It Ain't None of Yo' Business</a>" Crosby, the preacher here in Jax who bragged about <a href="http://fbcjaxwatchdog.blogspot.com/2011/10/crosby-follow-up-he-berates-woman-for.html" target="_blank">ripping into a woman at a restaurant</a> who dared to criticize her pastor in a private conversation - while his own online resume publicly ripped his prior church? Danny boy landed a <a href="http://www.jamestownbaptistwaycross.org/?i=8664&mid=10" target="_blank">new gig at a church in Waycross</a> this spring. I've never heard of a pastor doing this before, but apparently Danny and the Mrs. set up a "wedding registry" at Belk's website so the peeps at his new church could help them furnish their home they're moving into this summer. If you'd like to help Danny furnish his home - they still need the Samsung 720p plasma TV on the Walmart registry - visit their registry <a href="http://www.walmart.com/giftregistry/gr_detail.do?registryId=86162083175" target="_blank">here</a> and <a href="https://www.belk.com/bridalregistry/bridal_registry_results.jsp" target="_blank">here</a>. And tell them the Watchdog sent you.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpPsB7Kfbef1eHmLPWLWyJzCOyVTfLcry731nnl1CbX0o3UEK6C7iPa99PaKNNfdx4LdnT5cWbKUuv75-U8wJ95Wl4sMIEOu-9ZKfoIO5WS4jvYHo9EFg4OM2PyXJpc9sEcKNLjzVGpnKL/s1600/Redneck.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpPsB7Kfbef1eHmLPWLWyJzCOyVTfLcry731nnl1CbX0o3UEK6C7iPa99PaKNNfdx4LdnT5cWbKUuv75-U8wJ95Wl4sMIEOu-9ZKfoIO5WS4jvYHo9EFg4OM2PyXJpc9sEcKNLjzVGpnKL/s200/Redneck.png" width="160" /></a><u><b>"Preacher Needs Your Prayers"</b></u>:  The peeps at Perry Noble's church received an hour's lecture by "teaching pastor" Clayton King on a very necessary topic: you are obligated to continually pray for your pastor. Not that you should be praying for your wife or your kids, but you should be in continual prayer for Perry and others in "authority" over you, since their jobs are so tough and so important. Clayton wrapped it up by telling the good folks six steps to praying for Perry: pray <u>affectionately</u>, pray <u>compassionately</u>, pray <u>courageously</u>, pray <u>specifically</u>, pray <u>expectantly</u>, pray <u>constantly</u>. And pray while drinking the NewSpring Kool Aid. If you need to watch this hour lecture on how to pray for YOUR Man-of-God, you can watch Clayton's message <a href="http://newspring.cc/series/redneck/the-right-tool-for-the-job/" target="_blank">here</a>.<br /><br />There you have it, now you know what your pastor needs...now get busy and pray and buy for your pastors, and remember, IT'S ALL ABOUT THE BENJAMINS!

Pastors Need Your Prayers, They Need Their Homes Furnished - and They Need Your Benjamins

Hope all of you Watchdog readers are having a wonderful summer. Make no mistake, the Watchdog is still on the job, but just taking a break f...

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