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Posts Tagged ‘Constitution’

Free Speech no More

In Uncategorized on May 13, 2015 at 6:20 am

First Amendment on Trialby Diane Robertson

Two hundred forty years ago, there were tens of thousands ready to give their very lives for freedom. With God on their side, and a sacrifice of blood, they were able to bring freedom to the world. Today on the very land hallowed by their sacrifice, millions upon millions of people cower at being called names, and those freedoms that men bled and died for will be taken away without a single shot fired.

On May 9th, Alliance Defending Freedom, posted a warning to the American people on their Facebook page. They wrote:

“Americans need to prepare for the same sort of surveillance-society if the Supreme Court rules to ban marriage as a male-female institution. It means that no matter what you believe, the government will be free to regulate your speech, your writing, your associations, and whether or not you may express your conscience.

Americans also need to understand that the endgame for some in the LGBT rights movement involves centralized state power—and the end of First Amendment freedoms.”

This prefaced an article making its way around the web. Canadian citizen, Dawn Stefanowicz, wrote about the changes gay marriage has initially made in the Canadian government and society. She wrote it as a warning to the American people who may be facing a sweeping ruling from the US Supreme Court ordering the nation to legalize gay marriage. I summarized this in an earlier article titled: 3 Ways Gay Marriage Has Changed Canada. Since gay marriage became legalized in Canada, the citizens can no longer speak freely about homosexuality without legal consequences. They may no longer write blogs, newspaper articles, or anything that speaks against gay marriage, homosexuality, or the laws governing marriage and family. Parental rights are trampled upon and the government justifies intervening in how parents teach their children about religion and sexuality. Churches are loosely monitored for any public teachings that include the common religious beliefs on homosexuality and marriage. Canada is now under a surveillance-society. There is no right to conscience and there is no freedom that allows Canadian citizens to disagree with gay marriage or homosexuality.

To keep the United States government from ever making laws that would trample upon the natural rights of the people and destroy all that the soldiers fought for in the Revelutionary War, James Madison penned these words:

“Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the government for a redress of grievances.”

After more than two hundred years of freedoms guaranteed by the sacrifice of blood given freely by our founding fathers, we have come to a point where these freedoms may be done away. And why? Because too many people, too many American citizens, cowered and watched silently, as they eroded. Guns did not need to be pointed, too many have given up their freedom simply because they could not stand up against words.

Who Gets to Discriminate?

In Non-Discrimination, Same-Sex Marriage on May 1, 2015 at 12:59 pm

legal justiceby Gary Boyd

Until recently, I can remember walking in to storefronts of all types, and often seeing a sign that, if not in these exact words, expressed the sentiment: “We reserve the right to refuse service to anyone for any reason”. While I recollect entertaining the thought that actually refusing service for any reason may be a tad harsh, I must now concede that I miss the days when people had a right to choose their associations, in business and otherwise, since, now, refusing service to anyone for any reason may bring dire consequences.

Though not by any means the first case of its sort, Sweet Cakes by Melissa has been assessed a fine of 135,000 for refusing to do a wedding cake for a lesbian couple. Regrettably, Melissa is not the first person who faces unjust financial ruin for failing to honor her state’s nondiscrimination ordinances. The camel has now managed to bring his entire body into the tent. The special rights of some segments of society have now been brought to bear on the silent majority, and the silent majority bafflingly remains silent.

In addition to the obvious anti-constitutionality and inherent injustice in Melissa’s case and other similar ones, two crucial considerations scream the folly of nondiscrimination law.

First, what if the supposedly marginalized individual to whom service has been refused, has a history with the business as being a substandard customer? Only naiveté respecting the fairness of human nature would lead one to believe that such a disgruntled customer would not prosecute a claim against the business owner for any damages he might possibly receive, and on any grounds that they might be brought. Even when the business owner carries the day in court, he is still out time, stress, hassle, and money for the professional fees incurred in defending himself from a wrongful action against him. Hence, antidiscrimination laws will increase an already great burden that business owners bear every day.

Secondly, what would happen in a situation where service is declined an individual because a professional does not consider himself fluent in context of the matter brought before him, and the matter touches on the status for which the individual may be discriminated against? For example, a party to a same-sex marriage contacts an attorney to handle his divorce. The attorney, competent in family law, is not familiar with the nuances of divorce under relatively new legislation and judicial activism that have legalized same-sex marriage. He simply has not dealt in that area of the law, and is not refusing the homosexual individual based on his same-sex marriage, but based on the attorney’s lack of professional qualifications in the matter. Not wanting to malpractice the individual, the attorney refers him elsewhere. His action lies open to wrongful interpretation by either the courts or the homosexual individual as discrimination. While the same-sex aspect of the marriage is the reason the attorney refused the case, he did not refuse it on a discriminatory basis. Again, this attorney could be in for a very unpleasant process, with plenty of bad publicity on his firm, even if he wins in the end.

Nondiscrimination laws are flawed because they deny personal choice, thrusting upon some the values of others, and because they provide an avenue to sue for unrealized damages to the individual who believes, or wants to believe, that he has been the object of discrimination.

In Defense of the Christian’s Rights

In Uncategorized on April 30, 2015 at 7:12 am

religious liberty in chainsby Mekelle Tenney

Oral arguments began Monday for a case that many are saying is the most important the Supreme Court will hear this year. In the last three days I have read dozens and dozens of blogs and news articles discussing same-sex marriage. I have read several excellent arguments addressing the many complex questions and problems that arise from this issue. I however would like to make an argument in defense of the Christians in America. In the debate on marriage Christians have;

  1. Had their voice belittled and disregarded solely because they have a religious base
  2. Have been denied their basic fundamental right to religious freedom
  3. Have been penalized for having and exercising religious beliefs and principles
  4. Have been labeled as bigoted and ignorant

I am a Christian and I want to make it clear that my views regarding this issue are based on my belief in a Supreme Being and his plan for his children. Though social science supports my arguments for marriage between only one man and one woman I cannot deny that my passion for this issue is derived from my religious convictions. Unfortunately America has been plagued by the belief that religious based principles have no place in the political realm. Religious believers, Christians to be more specific, are often stereotyped as closed minded, bigoted, and ignorant. My views as a Christian are neither ignorant nor bigoted. And they do not disqualify me as a voice in this debate.

Submitted to the Supreme Court was an amicus brief written by a coalition of almost 20 different Christian denominations. Though the brief was written for the Supreme Court I believe it presents arguments that should be presented to the nation. I feel that the following experts offer strong support of the Christian’s stance in the same-sex marriage debate. The summary of the brief states the following:

“Recognizing a new right to same-sex marriage would harm religious liberty. That harm is avoidable because neither the Constitution nor this Court’s precedents dictates a single definition of marriage for the Nation……Our religious beliefs, reason, and practical experience with families lead us to support the manwoman definition of marriage. Contrary to malicious caricatures, we do so not out of animus or ignorance but out of concern, conviction, and love.”

They continued to address the possibility of the court deciding that laws defining marriage between a man or woman as being hostile and the damaging effects that would have on Christians.

“A decision that traditional marriage laws are grounded in animus (hostility or ill will) would demean us and our beliefs. It would stigmatize us as fools or bigots, akin to racists……Because we cannot renounce our scriptural beliefs, a finding of animus would consign us to second-class status as citizens whose religious convictions about vital aspects of society are deemed illegitimate. Assaults on our religious institutions and our rights of free exercise, speech, and association would intensify.”

Another issue addressed is the danger that would be imposed on religious liberties if the court held that sexual orientation was a class that had been discriminated against because they had been denied the ability to legally marry.

“Judicial suspicion would quickly follow, aiming not only at laws but also at the beliefs and practices of religious organizations and believers themselves. If this Court declares sexual orientation a suspect class (a class that has been subjected to discrimination), it will soon be argued that the government has a compelling interest in protecting against private religious conduct that burdens homosexual conduct……A constitutional right to same-sex marriage under any theory would create severe tensions with religious freedoms and related interests across a wide array of religious, educational, social, and cultural fronts. Directly or not, such a High Court ruling would unavoidably convey “hostility toward religion. . . inconsistent with our history and our precedents.”

In regards to the accusation that those who oppose same-sex marriage are “hatters” they boldly state:

“We emphatically reject the accusation that we and millions of our fellow believers seek to protect traditional marriage out of “ancient religious bigotry against gay persons.” Id. That slander aims to intimidate and suppress public conversation on a complex issue by equating disagreement with hatred. Laws reserving marriage for the union of a man and a woman were the universal rule in this country until a decade ago. They are not tokens of ignorance and bigotry now.” (Justice Alito made a similar observation during Tuesdays oral arguments.)

The brief in its entirety offers a strong defense of Christians and their belief in traditional marriage as well as defending their religious liberties. I stand with many other Christians in my belief that marriage is defined as being between a man and a woman. Marriage is a fundamental unit that our society depends on for stability. The impact that this case will have on America is hard to imagine. We have already seen on a state level the discrimination perpetuated against Christians as a result of legalizing same-sex marriage. We have heard countless cases of Christians who were fined to the point of financial ruin for not bending to the will of a same-sex couple. Our short history with same-sex marriage leads me to believe that if the court finds that same-sex marriage is a Constitutional right Christians will lose their God given religious rights.

The Supreme Court Hears the Gay Marriage Debate

In Uncategorized on April 28, 2015 at 8:09 am

marriage equality and supreme courtby Nathalie Bowman

Today is a big day for anyone interested in the status of marriage in the United States. The Supreme Court of the land will hear four cases in regards to the legal issues of same sex marriage.

This is an important issue for all who believe in marriage between a man and a woman as well as the right of children to have both a mother and a father. Back in January, the Supreme Court agreed they would hear these four cases. There are two main decisions the court will make: whether the constitution requires states to allow same-sex marriage, and whether a state must recognize the marriage of a same-sex couple, which was performed in another state. This ruling may likely change the face of marriage in the US.

Although it may feel far away and not reaching us into our comfortable little homes, I urge you to take note of the proceedings and be educated about this issue. It will affect all of our families.

Robert Barnes of the Washington Post has some interesting points about the Supreme Court accepting this case and how the landscape of gay marriage in the US has changed in the last few years:

“Supreme Court Agrees to Hear Gay Marriage Issue”

The Supreme Court announced Friday that it will decide a historic question about whether the Constitution requires that same-sex couples be allowed to marry no matter where they live or whether states are free to limit wedlock to its traditional definition as a union only between a man and a woman.

The court accepted cases from Michigan, Ohio, Kentucky and Tennessee, where restrictions about same-sex marriage were upheld by an appeals court in Cincinnati two months ago. The high court will hold 2 1/2 hours of oral arguments in April and decide the issue by the time the current term ends in June.

The justices ordered that the parties to the cases address two questions in their legal briefs:

  •     Whether the Constitution requires states to issue marriage licenses to same-sex couples, and
  •     whether states must recognize same-sex marriages performed in other states where they are legal.

Advocates have called same-sex marriage the modern era’s most pressing civil rights issue, and the court’s action could mark the culmination of an unprecedented upheaval in public opinion and the nation’s jurisprudence.

The country’s first same-sex marriage, the result of a Massachusetts court decision, took place less than 11 years ago. Now, more than 70 percent of Americans live in states where same-sex couples are allowed to marry, according to estimates.

 The questions raised in the cases that the court will consider this spring were left open in 2013 when the justices last confronted the issue of same-sex marriage. A slim majority said at the time that a key portion of the federal Defense of Marriage Act — withholding recognition of same-sex marriages — was unconstitutional and in a separate case allowed same-sex marriages to resume in California.

Since then, courts across the nation — with the notable exception of the Cincinnati appeals court — have struck down a string of state prohibitions on same-sex marriage, many of them passed by voters in referendums. Many of those court decisions compared the prohibitions to the ones on interracial marriage that the Supreme Court struck down in 1967 in Loving v. Virginia.

When the Supreme Court declined to review a clutch of those decisions in October, same-sex marriage proliferated across the country……”  Read more

Remember Liberty

In Democracy, Religious Freedom on July 3, 2012 at 10:49 pm

Diane Robertson

On the fourth of July, I always like to ponder the founding of our great nation, read the Declaration of Independence, and sing some of the great songs about our freedom, liberty, and the sacrifices that so many men and women made to make our nation the place of freedom and refuge it has been.

The fourth verse of the patriotic song, My Country ‘tis of Thee, says:

Our fathers’ God, to thee,

author of liberty, to thee we sing;

long may our land be bright

with freedom’s holy light;

protect us by thy might, great God, our King.

This was written in contrast to England’s national anthem, “God Save the King”. Instead of asking God to save the king, Samuel F.Smith, the author of this poem declares God to be the author of our liberty and then declares God to be our king and our protector.

In the Declaration of Independence, Thomas Jefferson wrote, “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.” “Our Creator” is God. Jefferson and all of the men who signed the Declaration of Independence, like Smith, declare God to be the author of our liberty.

The first of amendment of our Constitution, written by James Madison, states, “Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof.”

Samuel Adams, another of our founding fathers declared, “Our Constitution was made only for a moral and religious people. It is wholly inadequate to the government of any other.”

Clearly, the men who fought for liberty and established our great Nation believed God to be the giver and protector of liberty. These men did not want a state religion to limit the worship of the people. They understood that freedom of Religion isn’t about taking God away from the people. It is about allowing the people to worship God according to their consciences.

In our day, many are trying to remove religion completely from the public square. The word “God” has in many instances become offensive. Many people are being denied the right to act on their conscience. This clearly is against the founding principles and ideologies of our nation. This July Fourth, as we think back to and remember the beginning of our great nation, let us remember what these men fought to establish, and like them, protect it for the future liberty of our children.

What do UFI readers think about Surrogate Mothers?

In adoption, Child Development, Families, motherhood, Polls on November 11, 2010 at 5:48 am

Here’s last week’s UFI Family Poll question and here is the response:

What are your thoughts on a surrogate mother carrying a child for an infertile heterosexual couple? (child not conceived from the egg of the surrogate mother)

33 percent said                 “a positive and altruistic thing to do”

67 percent                          “a morally and ethically questionable thing to do”

The article, The Most Wanted Surrogates in the World, was linked to.  This article had a relatively positive view of the topic, yet the majority of our readers think surrogacy is a bad idea.  Anyone had any experience with this they’d like to share?

While we’ve got your attention, here’s the question of the week:

What is the greatest predictor of juvenile violence and crime?

  • poverty
  • neighborhood environment
  • fatherlessness
  • lack of education

Go to our website at www.unitedfamilies.org and scroll down to locate our Family Poll on the bottom right of page.  We want to hear from you!

Obama’s Healthcare Devastating to the Health of the Unborn

In Abortion, Constitution, Democracy, Health Care on March 22, 2010 at 3:54 pm

With the passage of Obama’s Healthcare Bill comes what some are calling “the greatest expansion of elective abortion since Roe v. Wade.” Although Bart Stupak and other supposed “pro-life democrats” want the public to believe that a Presidential Executive Order will save unborn lives and prevent taxpayers from funding abortion, the reality is that legal precedent in such court rulings as Hamdan v. Rumsfeld and Commerce of U.S. v Reich leave much doubt as to whether an Executive Order could even stand a court challenge—one that would surely come.
Add that to the doubt that Obama would even put much effort into an Executive Order banning taxpayer supported abortion. Candidate Obama promised, repeatedly, that abortion would be treated as a “basic health care mandate” that both taxpayers and health insurers would be required to subsidize. When you add this attitude to the fact that Pres. Obama could rescind his Executive Order at any time and that future Presidents have the ability to rescind as well, it leaves one wondering if an Executive Order such as this is even worth the paper it is written on.

Obama and the Democrats in both the House and the Senate have for months and months insisted that the various Healthcare Bills as written did not allow for abortion. So now with agreeing to an Executive Order barring tax payer funding of abortion, they have admitted that abortion is in the Healthcare bill. Why should we trust President Obama and his fellow Democrats now when their deceit on this issue is clear?

It is a dark day for the unborn and for all Americans.

A Principled Understanding of Same-Sex Politics

In Same-Sex Marriage on March 5, 2009 at 11:28 pm

ufilogoExerpts from LaVarr Christensen’s A Principled Understanding of Same-Sex Politics:

I remember it well. It was 2003 and the Massachusetts Supreme Court had stunned our country with its own radical and unprecedented ruling. They ordered the State of Massachusetts, based on their state Constitution, to immediately grant full, legal recognition of marriage to same-sex couples. Then, in California, after 4.6 million people sought to define the definition of marriage as the legal union of a man and a woman, because they didn’t have the second sentence that we have now adopted in Amendment 3, the California Legislature circumvented the will of the people. They created a parallel system of “domestic partner” legislation. Even now in California, the City of San Francisco and the opponents of “Proposition 8” are appealing the election outcome back to the same Supreme Court whose radical and unprecedented opinion prompted the overriding vote of the people in the first place. What a dizzy series of events.

We can see both the principle and the potential precedent in all this. We choose to oppose those proposals that seek to classify and treat same-sex couples as virtual equivalents of marriage and then compel the official sanctioning and public recognition of same-sex unions.

Again, we stress that all citizens, including same-sex couples, already have full freedom to make hospital visits, transfer property by deed and through inheritance by will, purchase life insurance policies, buy and sell property, and obtain employment.

California’s Proposition 8 was an important moral issue that directly affects the future of traditional marriage throughout our country. No state legislature, no elected branch of government, no direct or indirect manifestation of “We the People” has yet consciously and knowingly tried to redefine marriage and extend it to same-gender couples. However, if the people of California had chosen to ratify the earlier decision of four judges who claimed authority to set aside and disregard the prior direct vote of 4.6 million citizens of their state, that important constitutional principle and precedent would surely be in jeopardy. I am extremely grateful for the 6.8 million voters and all those who contributed so much to the success of Proposition 8 in California.

Same-sex marriage advocates never mention or acknowledge the weight of compelling judicial opinions that uphold traditional marriage nor the fact that 40 states have now adopted either constitutional amendments or statutes to limit marriage to the legal union of a man and a woman.

The whole concept of same-sex marriage falsely assumes that men and women are interchangeable and children are so adaptable that there is no desired norm in our society anymore other than the personal pleasure of adults involved in whatever relationship they may choose to form. In reality, however, as Maggie Gallagher has stated:

“Men and women are not interchangeable units. Sex has a meaning beyond immediate pleasure. Society needs babies, children need mothers and fathers; marriage is a word for the way we join men and women together to make the future happen.”

David W. Ogden, Another Anti-Family Obama Appointment

In The Family on February 20, 2009 at 9:56 am

ufilogoPresident Barrack Obama is at it again. This time, instead of appointing someone who evades paying taxes, his nominee for Deputy Attorney General, David W. Ogden evades moral judgment.

Ogden, a former top aide to Attorney General Janet Reno from the Clinton era, has worked tirelessly to undermine the heart and soul of the family. Ogden has litigated on behalf of anti-life powerhouse Planned Parenthood and top pornography giants, Penthouse and Playboy; supporting the exploitation of women and children in the process. With his inherent anti-family background, it is imperative that we try to stop the Obama nomination train from coming down the track.

Deputy Attorney General Influences Laws and Policy

Taken directly from the U.S. Department of Justice’s website, the Deputy Attorney General holds a vast amount of power and authority:

“The Deputy Attorney General advises and assists the Attorney General in formulating and implementing Departmental policies and programs and in providing overall supervision and direction to all organizational units of the Department. The Deputy Attorney General is authorized to exercise all the power and authority of the Attorney General, except where such power or authority is prohibited by law from delegation or has been delegated to another official. In the absence of the Attorney General, the Deputy Attorney General acts as the Attorney General.”

Being nominated to the position of second command of the Department of Justice means David W. Ogden will not only control the day-to-day operations of the agency, his influence will be felt in policy and rulemaking throughout the agency.

Through review of Ogden’s own written legal briefs, it is clear he has an agenda that opposes parental rights, favors abortion on demand, homosexual rights, and supports the pornography industry over children. Ogden also uses international law to override U.S. policies and believes strongly in a “compassionate and living” interpretation of
the U.S. constitution.

Ogden’s History of Anti-family Briefs

  • Ogden co-authored a legal brief for the American Psychological Association arguing that parental notification was unconstitutional and limited the rights of 14-year old minors seeking an abortion.
  • Ogden wrote the brief for Planned Parenthood on behalf of the American Psychological Association contesting a woman’s right to know policy including the negative effects of abortion and a 24-hour waiting period. His arguments included statements that women who receive abortions have “minimal” emotional and psychological effects and that “potential psychological consequences may result from bearing a raising a child…”

  • Ogden wrote an amicus brief for the American Psychological Association, the American Psychiatric Association and the National Association of Social Workers in the landmark Lawrence v. Texas lawsuit in where he declared that “homosexuality is a normal form of human sexuality” and defended “safe sex” education that teaches grade school children about anal and oral sex in the Bowers v. Hartwick case.

  • Ogden was council for 15 library directors that opposed the Children’s Internet Protection Act of 2000. He adamantly contended that Congress was subverting the role of librarians by limiting access to all “information”. Further he represented Playboy Enterprises several times over the years always in favor of access to pornography as a constitutional right.

International Law Over U.S. Law

  • Ogden assails the juvenile death penalty law in the Simmons brief using international treaty language pulled directly from the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, an international treaty snubbed by the United States Congress, stating that the international community does not support the death penalty for juveniles.

What You Can Do to Stop This Appointment

Call the U.S. Senate today at 202-224-3121.

Let the Senators know that approving a nominee who holds so little regard for families, life, and the well-being of children is in direct conflict to what our nation stands for.
Ask them not to approve a supporter of the pornography industry.
Tell them that under David Ogden’s leadership, our nation’s sovereignty is in jeopardy.
Tell the good Senators to do the right thing and stand for families by voting against David Ogden for U.S. Deputy Attorney General.

Yes on 8 Campaign Asks Legislature To Stop Wasting Time and Resources on Prop 8 Resolutions When Voters Have Already Spoken

In Same-Sex Marriage on February 17, 2009 at 4:02 pm

ufilogoSACRAMENTO, Calif., Feb. 17 — Urging the Legislature to stop wasting time and resources on non-binding resolutions concerning voter approved Proposition 8, Protect Marriage.com today urged legislative committees to shelve HR 5 and SR 7, resolutions stating that the Supreme Court should overturn Proposition 8 when it hears the matter next month.

Proposition 8 was adopted with over a 600,000 vote margin, gaining approximately the same vote percentage as Barack Obama did nationally,” said Ron Prentice, Chairman of ProtectMarriage.com – Yes on 8, the campaign committee responsible for passage of the measure. “It passed in 42 out of California’s 58 counties, including the five largest counties in California. It is wrong for legislators to disrespect the vote of the people and attempt to substitute their values for the decision of over 7 million voters.”

HR 5 (Ammiano) and SR 7 (Leno) are authored by legislators who have long opposed Prop 8. Their views were well known and rejected by voters when 52.3% of the electorate approved Prop 8. These same legislators have also signed onto amicus briefs before the Court asking that Prop 8 be overturned. Now they are authoring meaningless nonbinding resolutions that take up the time of legislators and legislative staff who should be focused on appropriate legislative priorities such as solving the state deficit.

“Disrespecting the will of voters and wasting taxpayer resources on meaningless legislative resolutions are among the reasons that public approval of the Legislature has fallen to 15%, the lowest in history.” Prentice said. “We urge the Judiciary committees of the Assembly and Senate to shelve these inappropriate resolutions and return the Legislature’s attention to more appropriate work.”

SOURCE The ProtectMarriage.com – Yes on 8 Campaign

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Weekend in Boston

Happy New Year! Did you do anything fun to celebrate?

I went with Nick to visit his friends Ben & Jenny in Boston. I had never been there before and I hate to be cheesy but it was just magical! If you’ve been reading this blog for a while you can probably imagine that I was completely enthralled by all the old buildings and busy streets. But more than that, it was just wonderful to spend a weekend with some of the most warm, funny, and sincere people I have ever met. I’m still on a high from it.

I have to run to work now, but I couldn’t resist posting a few pictures right away. I have tons more that I’ll share soon. Thanks for reading!

*click images for full view//kodak 400//canon eos rebel k2

8 responses to “Weekend in Boston

    • I know! I get kind of unmotivated this time of year because it’s always too dark to take pictures. I promise I’ll be better now that I have a bunch to share :)

  1. Boston is definitely on my list of places to visit.. especially since on of my good friends is living/studying there now. These pictures are great.. can’t wait to see more!

  2. These are lovely, Boston looks amazing, and wow you’re really making me want to take a plane and cross the Atlantic. I’ve missed your posts :)

    Happy new year to you too. I started the new year with a little excursion to the beach at dawn and it was great!

  3. Boston sounds lovely. I have friends there too, but haven’t had a chance to visit. But now that we’re back in the states, it’s do-able. :D
    あけましておめでとうございます！thanks for the sweet note.

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8/10 Best thing about my stay was...

The swimming pools, a choice of family friendly or quiet and relaxing. The shade Sail over the restaurant/patio was superb..

Polly Stanton-Smith
Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire

10/10 Best thing about my stay was...

The industrial strength air conditioning!!! It's fantastic and included in the price :-).

Paul Carroll

8/10 Best thing about my stay was...

Great Weather - Self Catering so excellent local restaurents.

Robert Seery
Newbridge Kildare

  • Flexible balance payments on most rooms
  • Best price guarantee or your money back!

Cay Beach Meloneras, Meloneras

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Cay Beach Meloneras Overview

The welcoming complex is peacefully located in the holiday resort of Meloneras just 500 m from the fabulous natural stone beach of Playa Meloneras. Shopping and entertainment venues are to be found just 1 km away and links to the public transport network are to be found in the near vicinity. The complex offers 24 h reception, supermarket, games room, playground, mini club, entertainment, jacuzzi and gym among other facilities. The bungalows consisting of one master-bedroom, bathroom, living-dining room, air conditioning, a fully equipped kitchen, a small patio, Satellite TV, hairdryer and safety deposit box on the ground floor.

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  • Massage
  • Restaurant(s) in hotel
  • Safe-deposit box at front desk
  • Sauna
  • Snack bar/deli
  • Swimming pool - children's
  • Swimming pool - outdoor

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  • Balcony
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6/10 Good Based on 7 Reviews

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6/10 Good

15 December 2010

quiet and relaxing

quiet aparthotel 10 minutes from sea

The best thing about my stay was...

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February 10, 2013

UF commit at UM Jr. Day: I had great time

This 4-star WR is a University of Florida commitment. But the Canes have been recruiting him hard, and he drove across Alligator Alley on Saturday to attend UM's Junior Day. Don't miss what he's saying about Miami and what it will now take for the Canes to catch Florida. Read on.

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'Spring Breakers 2’ Producers: James Franco

With their Muse Productions shingle hanging on such edgy fare as “American Psycho,” “Freeway,” “Buffalo 66” and “Spring Breakers,” producers Chris and Roberta Hanley are no strangers to controversy, however there’s something in the spring air this year that has gotten them more than their share of colorful press.

Earlier this month, former business partner on the Harmony Korine-directed hit pic “Spring Breakers” Wicks Walker sued Muse and fellow producer Jordan Gertner of Hero Entertainment for breach of contract.

This week, as the Hanleys and Gertner were landing in Cannes to start tubthumping several projects, including the upcoming sequel, “Spring Breakers: The Second Coming,” their star of the original picture took to Instagram to denounce the sequel as “not being done with Harmony Korine or my consent,” acidly adding, “it will be a horrible film.”

The Hanleys and Gertner spoke to Variety exclusively about this Franco dustup, giving back to Franco a little acid of their own.

“Let’s see if I can remember all of the sequels James has done,” laughed Chris Hanley, helpfully listing “‘The Great and Mighty Oz,’ ‘Spider Man,’ ‘Planet of the Apes'” while also noting “and he’s pushing hard to help set up the ‘Pineapple Express’ sequel.

“Franco is a sequel junkie in his own reality, embracing the too big to fail studio system that is his meal ticket to dilettante artistic side shows, while he glibly attacks real independent filmmakers dedicated to independent points of view,” he said of the actor.

“The next spring breakers will make the first one look like some Disney girls trying to get a new lease on life.”

On a more serious note, Hanley noted that the new film will be directed by “Spun” director Jonas Akerlund from an original screenplay by “Trainspotting” author Irvine Welsh. “These aren’t weak or lame artists” said Hanley “and I think our track record speaks for itself.” In Roberta’s view, “We’ve done nothing but smuggle important artists into Hollywood.” Stressing the new film as a fresh take, Gertner said “We had a great relationship with Harmony Korine and now we’re exploring a new incarnation of ‘Spring Breakers.'” Gertner also noted that Muse and Hero “have all rights to all prequels, sequels, remakes, animation spinoffs.” Citing the European legal terms for ownerships, Chris Hanley noted “We have the certificate of authorship for this work.”

Muse and various partners are also involved in a spate of equally edgy projects including their film adaptation of Martin Amis’s “London Fields” starring Amber Heard and featuring Johnny Depp, which has wrapped photography under direction of Mathew Cullen and will be ready for the fall festival season.

Other projects include spy thriller “An Expensive Education,” from the novel by Nick McDonell. Roberta Hanley wrote the screenplay and describes it as “the beginning of a great espionage franchise that explores present day high tech surveillance in great terrifying detail.” The producers are out to directors on “Education.”

And finally, perhaps fastest on the track to productions is their Cannes announcement of Michael Winterbottom’s new film “The Vatican Connection,” based upon the true story of NYPD Detective Joe Coffey. Orignal Edgar Allen Poe Prize-winning tome, chronicling a global trail of intrigue involving billions of dollars, Vatican bankers and a shadowy worldwide conspiracy, was penned by New York Times journalist Richard Hammer. Pic’s screenplay will be penned by “The Messenger” scribe Paul Viragh, working from a draft by Alessandro Camon.

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Fried Green Tomatoes

29 Oct

I love fried stuff, don’t you? Especially when said fried stuff envelopes healthy goodness. Technically a fruit, the tomato is very low in Saturated Fat and Cholesterol, is a good source of Dietary Fiber, Thiamin, Niacin, Vitamin B6, Iron, Magnesium, Phosphorus and Copper, and is a very good source of Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Vitamin K, Pantothenic Acid, Potassium and Manganese (source). Here is an interesting fact: green tomatoes contain three times the amount of calcium as red tomatoes (source). Cool, huh?

The recipe below makes for an excellent side dish to any southern-type comfort food you might have. Even alongside Macaroni & “Cheese” — yum! With a little sprinkling of sugar, the typically bitter flavor of these tomatoes is slightly subdued, then these little green beauties are coated in a seasoned cornmeal breading.

Fried Green Tomatoes

Fried Green Tomatoes
Yields approximately 12 slices

1 teaspoon lemon juice
2 tablespoons regular unsweetened almond milk
1/4 cup cornmeal
1/4 teaspoon garlic salt
1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper
3 green tomatoes (approximately 2-inches in diameter)
granulated sugar
2-4 tablespoons vegan buttery spread
all-purpose flour

Place lemon juice and milk in a shallow, wide dish; set aside.

Mix together cornmeal, garlic salt and pepper in another shallow, wide dish; set aside.

Cut tomatoes into 1/4-inch slices and sprinkle both sides with a small pinch of sugar. Dip into flour, then milk mixture, and finally the cornmeal mixture; turning to coat both sides of each slice.

Melt buttery spread in large frying pan over medium heat. Place breaded tomato slices in a single layer in the pan and cook until golden brown; turning to cook both sides. Remove from pan and place on a plate covered with a paper towel.

3 Responses to “Fried Green Tomatoes”

  1. Crista August 8, 2013 at 9:34 am #

    found this recipe via pinterest, made it, love it :)

    • megmeister August 14, 2013 at 6:38 pm #

      Yay, great! Thank you for letting me know, Crista!

  1. Fried Green Tomatoes | peace. love. quinoa - August 8, 2013

    […] **recipe adapted from the Vegan Food Addict […]

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Using Digital Data to Retrofit Traditional Customer Acquisition Programs

Your company continually develops and executes customer acquisition programs to identify prospects that are in your “sweet spot.”  You have your regular lists that you employ to get a lift in your campaigns, but they seem to yield fewer leads as time goes on.  What would happen if you tapped the power of consumers’ voices?  What if you could identify and reach that “sweet spot?”  You can, and the information you need is waiting for you in the social web.

The Dynamic Power of Consumer Voices

Millions of conversations are constantly taking place in the social media sphere, many of which are referencing your products.  These conversations are an ever-changing dataset that point directly to your new prospects.  Imagine the possibilities of gaining up-to-the-minute prospects, real consumers eager to know more about your products.  Instead of using the same old go-to lists, find new prospects by listening to what they’re saying online.

Tapping into the Potential of Actionable Data

The information you’ll find in the social media sphere encompasses the “3 V’s of Big Data,” important characteristics that enable digital data to better inform your marketing and lead generation efforts:

  • Volume – Big Data boasts a depth of data beyond what traditional data sources can offer, offering companies significantly more valuable insights.
  • Velocity – The rate of change in Big Data is greater, given the dynamic nature of the Web, thus offering companies a look at consumer interests in real-time.
  • Variety – Big Data comes in many different formats, including video, web logs, geo-location information, all of which bring a depth unknown to traditional sources.

Harnessing consumers’ voices heard within the realm of Big Data will transform your customer acquisition programs.  By leveraging those Big Data sources that are most likely to have insights on the customers who are, or might be, interested in your products and services, enables you to better identify new prospects and understand their needs.  Analyzing the real-time consumer intent expressed online about your products and services will then allow you to convert more of those identified prospects to customers.  In addition to enhancing your ability to better identify and attract prospects within segments you’ve already identified, Big Data allows you to realize the potential of customers in previously unexplored segments.  In order to compete in the modern business world, companies need to retrofit their traditional customer acquisition programs with the enhanced analytic capabilities Big Data offers.

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REALIS3D is an architectural visualisation and presentation tool, taking the latest in real time 3D technology, proven in the games and entertainment industry, and re-purposes it for architects.

REALIS3D is not just a design tool. When you import a model, the first thing it does is allow you to walk around and present your designs.

It is possible to install REALIS3D, import your model and without any training, make a visually impressive design within minutes!

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Dan Smith, SAI executive director, talks about
- the upcoming Teacher & Principal Leadership Symposium
- an Executive Leader survey sent to all Iowa superintendents
- a needs assessment being e-mailed soon to SAI members
- SAI's Mentoring & Induction Program

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Cary Brothers Plus

Los Angeles, CA

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"Cary Brothers is required listening for a developing generation of fans of smart, heartfelt, original music..." - BOSTON GLOBE

Cary Brothers is an indie singer-songwriter from Los Angeles who first gained national attention for his song "Blue Eyes" on the Grammy-winning "Garden State" Soundtrack.  Brothers' latest release "Under Control" premiered at #1 on the iTunes Singer-Songwriter Chart and Billboard Heatseekers Top Ten.  He has had over 70 songs featured in TV shows like "Grey's Anatomy," "Bones," and the hit film "Easy A" in addition to appearances on "Jimmy Kimmel Live!" and "The Late Late Show." He is the co-creator of The Hotel Cafe Tour and has toured worldwide with artists such as Imogen Heap, Sara Bareilles, and The Fray.  In the electronic dance music world, Brothers has found great success collaborating with DJ Tiesto on a club remix of his song "Ride" as well as original material for Tiesto's latest collection "Kaleidoscope.

External Links

  1. Renny Maslow
  2. Kamel Films
  3. Filmumentaries - Jamie Benning
  4. Michael Muller
  5. Brandon Walters
  6. James Fitzpatrick
  7. Kyle Eaton
  8. Jessie Baylin
  9. The Delivery Men
  10. Contrast Films
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Ed Kishel Plus

Phoenix, AZ

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A cameraman and video editor, I am also an adjunct professor teaching video production at Paradise Valley Community College.

In my spare time I provide DoP and other video services for the Desperado Film Festival, as well as any other production or organization I can help. Thanks for visiting!

External Links

  1. Mark Wyatt
  2. Jay Cheel
  3. Brant Hadfield
  4. Hugo Goudswaard


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Inside TAP

The Task-based Asynchronous Pattern streamlines asynchronous programming and extends the multithreading capabilities of the Microsoft .NET Framework 4.

Deep Dive: Task-Based Asynchronous Pattern

This article introduces the TAP and the associated .NET language changes that streamline asynchronous programming and extend the multithreading enhancements in the Microsoft .NET Framework 4.

Tear-Off ToolStrips in Windows Forms

Starting with Microsoft Office, users have been able to double-click or drag a toolbar and have it become a floating window that can be moved or docked to the side of the application window. Here's how to implement a basic version of this behavior in C# Windows Forms applications.

C# Corner

C# Questions Answered: Lambda, C# Traps, Unsafe Code

Patrick Steele responds to questions about Lambda properties, interface-based code, and unsubscribing from events, among others.

C# Practice Makes Perfect

For years, nobody cared that the legacy image-syncing application consumed as much bandwidth and processing time as it did.

Threats or Opportunities?

Microsoft faces new threats today, like smartphones and tablets, but are they more severe than past ones?

Letters from Readers

Letters: Readers Sound Off About HTML5

Robby Ingebretsen's July VSInsider column on HTML5 produced plenty of opinions.

Practical .NET

WCF: Creating Long-Running Services

Not all business operations finish in seconds. Using Windows Communication Foundation you can still create -- as a single project -- an application that supports business services that take hours (or days or weeks or months) to complete.

Redmond Review

LightSwitch: The Answer to the Right Question

After nearly a full year in beta, Microsoft yesterday released Visual Studio LightSwitch 2011. Andrew Brust explains why LightSwitch defies categorization and is a lot more than just another framework-based tool for generating code.

Visual Studio 2010 Lab Management

Visual Studio 2010 Lab Management provides a centralized way to create, manage and share environments in your domain-joined Team Foundation Server (TFS) 2010 development shop.

Product Reviews

Ease .NET Code Documentation Pain

If you're documenting your .NET code for other developers, you should follow the standards that Microsoft has developed. Document! X 2011 for Visual Studio will make that job considerably faster and easier.

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First, enter a politician or zip code
Now, choose a category

Public Statements

Capito Responds To President's Gun Control Proposals

Location: Washington, DC

Congresswoman Shelley Moore Capito, R-W.Va., released the following statement responding to President Obama's recently proposed executive orders and legislation on gun control:

"West Virginians want us to work together to find common ground solutions to reduce gun violence in the United States--a goal we all share. That's why I am disappointed that President Obama issued an executive order today instead of showing willingness to work with Congress and State Leaders to address this serious issue. Whether appointing Czars to run car companies, using the EPA to regulate where it can't legislate, or using executive orders to circumvent Congress on gun control, the President has displayed a worrisome willingness to use the White House to advance ideological agendas.

"I will continue to consider ideas and proposals that address this issue in an inclusive manner, from the level of violence in the media to how we address mental illness in this country to gun laws."

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Do You Have a Psychic Vampire Critique Partner?

Screen Shot 2013-03-13 at 9.48.42 AM

WHAT do you MEAN I am head-hopping? THAT is my VOICE. You are ruining my ART!
(Image via Carniphage Flikr Commons)

Several months ago, in my Enemies of the Art series, we discussed Psychic Vampires. Psychic Vampires are all around us, and likely, we will never be rid of them. PVs are most likely to show up at a number of critical junctures. They sense the energy shift, and since that energy is no longer all about them, they will fight tooth-and-nail to bring balance to The Force (of Manipulation).

While many of my posts are directed toward writers, most people have these same issues. If we don’t learn how to guard against and handle PVs, we will always be their victims. Psychic Vampires will always feel renewed and refreshed, namely because they just sucked the life out of their victims (us).

Psychic Vampires abound in the arts, and they’re also prevalent in many writing groups. They are vamps dressed in writer clothing. Often they are so self-absorbed they can’t even see the reality of what they are.

This is why confronting PVs is almost always fruitless and will simply lead to conflict that only further feeds them at our expense. Our best option is to be able to spot them, then ignore them or RUN.

Beware the Psychic Vampire Critique Partner

I wish I could give all of you a nice, easy website to find healthy, professional critique partners, but unfortunately those don’t exist. We will have to trust, then use trial and error, then set tough boundaries. Some CPs will make it, but likely most will not.

Too many writers get into this business for the wrong reasons. They really aren’t interested in the life of a professional and just enjoy “playing author.” Writing is for attention and ego-stroking. Their goals are about THEM and this means anyone on board with them will go the wrong direction.

They will keep steering the ship the wrong way…toward the rocks.

Some PVCPs are touchy, sensitive and unwilling to learn and grow. Mistakenly, they believe that their art is just genetically coded into their DNA and that any feedback is just trying to sabotage their “art.”

Screen Shot 2013-03-13 at 10.00.21 AM

What do you mean too many flashbacks? YOU ARE SO MEAAAANNNN!

If you have a critique partner who refuses to listen to honest feedback. If she is touchy and oversensitive? Move on. You won’t grow. You’ll spend too much time propping up an ego that can never get enough propping up. The PV will be a continual vortex of need and if you don’t jump ship while you can? Expect to crash on the rocks with them.

This writer won’t make it unless she changes, and if you’re enabling her to be a PVCP, why should she?

We Are Who We Hang Around

I cannot recommend attending writing conferences enough. Yes, even WANACon counts.  We are having another WANACon the first weekend of October and deliver top tier NYTBSA talent right to you AT HOME. Right now we are having a special, the ENTIRE conference and recordings for $119 (which will expire soon). Just like a writing conference only no travel and at YOUR convenience.

We can arrange a TSA feel-up, but they work for tips :D.

The reason we need to choose friends wisely and surround ourselves with professionals, is that these writers have invested cold hard cash into getting better. When we forge relationships with writers who are professional or stronger, we grow. Water will always find its level, so make sure you’re rising, not sinking. Habits are contagious. This is one of the reasons I cannot recommend joining an RWA chapter enough (even if you don’t write romance).

RWA is full of professionals who work their tails off and understand craft and the business. As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens the other. Refuse to be in a place that dulls your creative edges.

PVCPs Waste Valuable Time

I’ve been in critique relationships where the other person never learned to think for themselves. Why bother reading Story Engineering, The Writer’s Journey, Hooked,  Save the Cat or Plot & Structure when we can get Kristen to so all our thinking/plotting for us?

I recall two members of a critique group who attended every week with their crappy writing to be critiqued. Instead of learning, they just barfed down junk on a page and let the group “fix” it. Odd thing was, after over a year of enduring the world’s worst writing, nothing changed. When these individuals self-published? NONE of the writing had changed.

This ticked me off. How many hours had we dedicated to helping, when the writer had zero intention of listening? The critique wasn’t a place to grow; rather, it was a captive audience who had to listen to their dreadful “story” vomit.

Most of us are short on time. We often have day jobs, kids, chores, bills and we have to do social media and MOST IMPORTANTLY we need to be writing more books and better books. It’s easier to tread water if we aren’t dragging a PVCP anchor around our necks.

The PVCP Test

1. Is the writer touchy. Does she want every bit of feedback to be handed with a box of chocolates?

2. Does she attend regularly? Or does she always have an excuse of why she can’t be there—great-nephew’s birthday party, helping a friend’s garage sale, washing her hair?

3. Does the writer actually READ? Does she read fiction and LOVE storytelling? I’ve met writers who claimed they wanted to be NYTBSAs, but said things like, “Well, I just don’t like to/have time to read.” Reading is FUNDAMENTAL to what we do. A writer who doesn’t read is like a musician who doesn’t listen to music. TIME WASTER.

4. Does the person give back? Critique partners should be partners. I’ve had writers who took and took for months. They wanted me to plot, then re-plot, then they had a new and BETTER idea they needed “help” plotting. Never once did it occur to them, that we hadn’t talked about my book in months.

5. Does this person ever grow? Or do they keep making the same newbie errors over and over? If they are? They aren’t listening, so move on. This is a PVCP. RUN.

What are your thoughts? Have you been the victim of a PVCP? What did you do? How did you handle it? What are your horror stories? How did you stake the PVCP? What might be some other ways to spot a PVCP? What might be some good resources for finding a good CP? I recommend trying WANATribe, join RWA or attend conferences. But, maybe you guys have some better suggestions!

BTW, Image number two courtesy of best movie ever Army of Darkness.

I love hearing from you!

Since it was such a HUGE success and attendees loved it, I am rerunning the Your First Five Pages class SATURDAY EDITION. Use the WANA15 code for 15% off. Yes, editors REALLY can tell everything they need to know about your book in five pages or less. Here’s a peek into what we see and how to fix it. Not only will this information repair your first pages, it can help you understand deeper flaws in the rest of your manuscript.

My new social media book, Rise of the Machines–Human Authors in a Digital World is NOW AVAILABLE. Only $6.99.

WANACon, the writing conference of the future is COMING! We start with PajamaCon the evening of October 3rd and then October 4th and 5th we have some of the biggest names in publishing coming RIGHT TO YOU. If you REGISTER NOW, you get PajamaCon and BOTH DAYS OF THE CONFERENCE (and all recordings) for $119 (regularly $149). Sign up today, because this special won’t last and seats are limited. REGISTER HERE.

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  1. #1 by Kim Mullican on August 28, 2013 - 7:25 am

    Oh Kristen, I always love your posts. But it took a bit of therapy after all the clown business. This? I just peed a little. ;)

  2. #2 by Ken Farmer on August 28, 2013 - 7:40 am

    When people ask for criticism…they’re really seeking praise.

    • #3 by swiveltam on August 28, 2013 - 8:02 am

      What if they’re seeking both? Is it so awful to seek some praise, to keep you going…as long as you take the criticism to heart and take action?

      • #4 by Author Kristen Lamb on August 28, 2013 - 9:49 am

        Some people only want to hear everything is perfect. I’ve been writing 14 years and I still hire editors, use beta readers and want honest feedback. People who are mean-spirited and just tear us down are useless. But they are just as useless as the person who blows glitter up our skirt non-stop. We won’t grow. They are like the friend who didn’t want to tell you your skirt was tucked in the back of your underwear in the restaurant because “she didn’t want to ’embarrass’ you”.

    • #6 by notjustablonde on August 28, 2013 - 8:06 am

      I think a good CP will offer positive reinforcement on what he/she likes as well… but that the critique is where the value is. If you didn’t like it you hopefully would not have written it… so it is the constructive feedback you should be seeking not praise.

      • #7 by swiveltam on August 28, 2013 - 9:01 am

        So, we need to be strong enough to be our own praisers and strong enough to handle the criticism. Sometimes it’s hard not to get discouraged. Don’t look for praise from our CP?

        • #8 by swiveltam on August 28, 2013 - 9:07 am

          Yes, I do know what you mean. I ask my friends/readers to be honest but not cruel. BTW Good luck on your new blog :)

      • #9 by Heather on August 28, 2013 - 9:10 am

        Honestly, as I say below, I think a good CP shows you what not to throw out when you make the changes because of the criticisms. It’s not just about positive reinforcement, it’s about actually evaluating the work.

        • #10 by notjustablonde on August 28, 2013 - 12:46 pm

          Agreed. Positive feedback is always appreciated but is NOT what we need at this stage of the game. If you are so fragile and sensitive that you find you are craving positive feedback and reassurance more than the opportunity to grow then you may need a different type of person or group setting to build up your self-worth and confidence… and that is okay!!!

          There is NOTHING wrong with feeling this way! It is just beyond the role of the CP to address your need for approval, any self-esteem deficits and to be a cheerleader for you all the time.

          Remember, the purpose of a CP is for writing. Let her help you with writing! Get your need for others approval addressed by listening to self-help CD’s, reading a good inspirational book, meeting with God, hiring a therapist or meeting a dear friend at Starbucks. Otherwise, I am afraid to tell you, that you may indeed become the Vampire we fear.

  3. #11 by Diana Beebe on August 28, 2013 - 7:56 am

    I’ve met some really great CPs through conferences, including WANACon and DFWCon, and from WANA connections. Yes, I’m all signed up for the next WANACon. I’m looking forward to it!

  4. #12 by swiveltam on August 28, 2013 - 7:58 am

    We are starting a critique group in my little town and I’m very afraid. One of the women I think may be a PV. Last year when we were both writing ghost stories for a contest, she asked me to read and give feedback on her story. I did and found some areas where she could change or tweak. She basically “defended” her choices. Then when I hinted several times “Would she like to read mine?” She never asked for it or said, “sure, send it.” I am not comfortable being so pushy as to say, “I read yours, now read mine.” Should I be? (side note and ego stroke–my story made finals, hers did not).

    And about ego stroke. Balance? We need some ego to keep going and not think our work is shite, but how much is too much. What if I’m a PV and I don’t know it?

  5. #13 by Margie Hall on August 28, 2013 - 7:59 am

    I have been in two different critique groups and each one has had what I refer to as a shredder. They completely demeaned and demoralized the authors instead of offering any constructive criticism on the manuscript. If I do venture back into the shark tank I will definitely be using you guide and take everything with a grain of salt. Thank you for the informative and entertaining post!

    • #14 by Author Kristen Lamb on August 28, 2013 - 12:29 pm

      We also have to make sure we don’t have too thin of a skin. I recall being called all kinds of names in two critique groups, “shredder” being one of them…simply because I didn’t say the writing was perfect and made of unicorn gold. I began with what I liked, then addressed the problems and faults, then gave ways to fix those problems. Criticism and critique are different. We need to have tough skin, yet at the same time, someone who just throws glitter/rocks at us can be equally destructive.

  6. #15 by cpbialois on August 28, 2013 - 7:59 am

    Reblogged this on The BiaLog and commented:
    I think it’s safe to say we’ve all encountered this at some point or other.

  7. #16 by notjustablonde on August 28, 2013 - 8:00 am

    How lucky am I to be following you! I am a newbie blogger and before your inspiration never even dared say ‘aspiring writer’ let alone… I am one! ;o) Add this great post to the list of ways you are a true inspiration and time-saver in my life! BLESS YOU!!!

    I believe as do you that PV’s are in ALL aspects of our lives! It is funny to me that I have never thought about it like that before… great ideas are like that. I will definitely keep these “warning signs” in mind if I and when I get a CP to help me out. THANK YOU!!!

  8. #17 by mandasiefert39 on August 28, 2013 - 8:06 am

    I really like this, I wanna do some, but my hubby is a psy. vamp. He always just says “yeah” when I try to show him something I have done.Even when I show him a crochet project, he is the same way. I found out a long time ago that he could not do it, “maybe he is just jealous” I would tell myself..?????Is it him or me???

    • #18 by swiveltam on August 28, 2013 - 9:05 am

      My husband is not interested either. He’s not discouraging, just not interested. Keep going. Find friends or other family members to support you. Our hubbies can’t be EVERYTHING we need, that’s what friends are for. Best of luck, hang in there :)

      • #19 by mandasiefert39 on August 28, 2013 - 9:42 am

        Thank you very much.

        • #20 by swiveltam on August 28, 2013 - 11:17 am

          And for what it’s worth, I don’t know if its jealousy as much as disinterest. My hubby tries to tell me about soccer and listen politely and try to ask intelligent questions, but I’m just not “moved” by soccer. I would guess, that your hubby as well as mine is not “moved” by crochet or blogging or writing? (I’m new to these kind of blogs.comment pages—Kristen is it okay for me to post to posters? Am I over-doing it?

    • #22 by Author Kristen Lamb on August 28, 2013 - 9:47 am

      Him. I learned a long time ago not to look to empty wells for water. You need encouragement? Hop on Twitter and hang out with us at #MyWANA. We give a mix of love and tough love so it’s a great environment to grow as an artist.

  9. #24 by Indiewritersreview on August 28, 2013 - 8:34 am

    Reblogged this on IndieWritersReview and commented:
    Very Awesome post:)

  10. #25 by Cate Masters on August 28, 2013 - 8:58 am

    My crit partners are all as tough (i.e. honest) as I am. We treasure one another because we know we can count on a crit that will help take our work to the next level. I feel blessed to have them.

  11. #26 by Gry Ranfelt on August 28, 2013 - 8:59 am

    I’m lucky to be in this very constructive critique group, but I’ve met them at writing events :P

    • #27 by Gry Ranfelt on August 28, 2013 - 8:59 am

      with “them” I mean the psychic vampires

  12. #28 by Heather on August 28, 2013 - 9:08 am

    Having been through and given critiques of architectural work in design schools, I can safely say that the best critique partners have something that they like about your project. Because when you focus on the good, you can make the rest of the changes so the good gets better, and it makes it clearer what not to keep. That’s always how I used to go about it. When I critiqued writing, even if I marked up pages, I usually included notes like “love this!” It’s not about stroking their ego or making the criticisms go down better. It’s about telling the author/designer what’s working, so when they take their writing/design apart, they don’t lose the gold with the sand.

    I have also had faculty in school who were the PVCP. Actual faculty who enjoyed nothing more than tearing apart ideas, rather than teaching the students how to get better. They enjoyed it, because it made them important because ‘they knew better.’ I remember TAing and going back to a student who was in tears and ready to quit. So, we got her on track, and she finished for her deadline.

  13. #29 by kristin nador on August 28, 2013 - 9:25 am

    Reblogged this on kristin nador writes anywhere and commented:
    Continuing from Monday’s subject of critique groups, here’s the always awesome Kristen Lamb advising us, as only she can, on the importance of choosing critique partners. Maybe writer’s garlic will help… :)

  14. #30 by Lynne Spreen on August 28, 2013 - 9:35 am

    I used to worry that a few of my critique partners hadn’t bothered to educate themselves about the craft, and I felt they lacked the ability to critique my work. But then I had two realizations: one, they do represent READERS, those peeps who aren’t authors but love to read, and in that sense, their feedback can be really valuable. Two, if a writer is always defensive or in some other way wastes my time in the critique group (e.g. wakes up that morning, vomits something onto a page from a dream she just had, and brings the piece to group for a first look), I don’t critique it beyond an oblique compliment. We have to protect our time and energy. PS I am LOVING Rise of the Machines. When I print out the Kindle highlights it’ll form a small book.

    • #31 by Author Kristen Lamb on August 28, 2013 - 9:45 am

      SQUEEEE!!!! Thanks! But people who give good feedback and maybe aren’t learning craft aren’t what I would consider vampires because they ARE giving something, not just ALL TAKE ALL THE TIME.

  15. #32 by Roland D. Yeomans on August 28, 2013 - 9:54 am

    You can have an incomplete person as your critique partner, too. One whose chief delight is sadistic jabs at a person’s work. Their reason for reviewing the work of their partners is the fun they have in destructive criticism. If they are intelligent, though flawed, it can take you awhile to see their game. If even the praise is back-handed, then you should consider changing mentors. Good post as always,

  16. #33 by Alex Hurst on August 28, 2013 - 9:55 am

    This was an awesome post. As someone who spent a few months this year stumbling around various critique groups as a sole-critiquer (nothing to have critiqued), I grew so weary of people feeling the need to respond to e-v-e-r-y comment I’d made on my line-by-lines, justifying their words or ideas. My response to that always is: are you going to look over the shoulder of every reader? You don’t have the benefit of justification. What the reader sees is what they get!

    Fantastic read. Your ‘Rise of the Machines’ book looks very interesting as well. ^_^

    • #34 by Author Kristen Lamb on August 28, 2013 - 12:27 pm

      Thank you! So happy you are enjoying the new book, and thanks for taking the time to comment. I always enjoy hearing from you guys. Y’all are the highlights of my days.

  17. #35 by Shea Ford on August 28, 2013 - 10:23 am

    I haven’t had any real CPs. Maybe I should find one. But at least I know when to run if neccessary. :D

  18. #36 by Donna Cowden on August 28, 2013 - 11:44 am

    I learned something here today! Love your comment on “love” and “tough love.” I’ve found many just want to be heard (read) but rarely take the time to listen (read). Would be great to join a writer’s group full of passionate and giving people.

  19. #37 by annerallen on August 28, 2013 - 12:39 pm

    Fantastic advice for anybody who’s in a critique group. They can so often be self-perpetuating failure clubs. Nobody wants to learn or change. Nobody wants anybody else to succeed. It’s sometimes hard to leave, but you have to just walk away.

  20. #38 by Mitzi Reinbold w/a Mitzi Flyte on August 28, 2013 - 2:55 pm

    Ah, critique groups…difficult topic for me. I was in a group with friends and my sister. I was one of the few who routinely brought stuff to critique. Then when I had to travel for work (overnights in a hotel during the week) and couldn’t get to meetings, no one wanted to critique by email. So I dropped out.

  21. #39 by chloethurlow1 on August 28, 2013 - 3:42 pm

    A lot of PVs live on FaceBook and masquerade as trolls, or perhaps it’;s the other way round. Be wary in whatever incarnation, they suck out your positivity and well-being through a negativity straw.

  22. #40 by Erica on August 28, 2013 - 3:58 pm

    I’m not yet at the point of joining a critique group (don’t have enough to share). And quite frankly, I’m scared to join one. I’m not afraid of open and honest critique; I’ve been presenting my artwork to one and all for critique since I was 14. And as a professional copywriter, my work gets critiqued and edited all the time.

    I’m just scared of that one person who’ll sense “fresh meat” and rip me to shreds for the hell of it.

  23. #41 by sharonhughson on August 28, 2013 - 6:55 pm

    Last time Kristen blogged about this topic, I complained about not getting a good critique so much that she offered to give me one. Boy, that was one tough butt chewing. But it really opened my eyes to some serious deficits in my story structure.
    I followed her advice and I think I’m getting better. If I ever win the monthly drawing, I guess I’ll find out *cringes* Good luck to all my fellow commenters😛

    • #42 by Author Kristen Lamb on August 28, 2013 - 8:41 pm

      You did GREAT, just made the same noob errors we all do. If you want a good laugh I can send you the first fifteen pages of my first novel (but I like you, so that might be bad juju :D).

      • #43 by sharonhughson on August 28, 2013 - 8:48 pm

        You crack me up. When I’m having a rough day, I know reading your blog will make me laugh, so I look forward to it.
        As for the critique: Sometimes, a butt whipping is all that will help us *shrugs*

        • #44 by Author Kristen Lamb on August 28, 2013 - 9:12 pm

          Well, if you ever need to feel better about your writing, my first novel is chained in the garage…eating the sheetrock.

  24. #45 by Charla J Schneider on August 29, 2013 - 10:09 am

    Years ago I joined an online writing site called “Poetry-Free-For-All”. It really is a fantastic site where people who are serious about poetry go to give and receive feedback. (For every poem you post you must offer three critiques before you can post again) I joined because poetry is very difficult to write well and I thought working on poetry would improve my writing in general. One of the critiques I got on my first poem posted was “Read a thousand poems before you attempt to write another one.” Ouch. That stung but looking back I think his comment was a huge gift to me. My writing has come a long way since then and I remember that as being a bit of a wake up call, you know, a shift in thinking when I began to consider “hmm maybe good writing takes some work….”

  25. #46 by alicamckennajohnson on August 29, 2013 - 1:57 pm

    I love my critique partners. It took two different groups, one on line and one in person group to find this one. And thank goodness, even when they tell me I need to re-write something I always leave group feeling inspired.

  26. #47 by 1weaver on August 30, 2013 - 1:25 am

    i consider this post – and your next – great advice for Any one, writer or not. great stuff.

  27. #48 by Gale Albright on August 31, 2013 - 12:59 pm

    Reblogged this on Visions and Revisions.

  28. #49 by Raani York on September 17, 2013 - 5:36 pm

    I have to admit: I’ve got the most wonderful and supportive partner a writer can have!! Who is actually sucking my enthusiasm and stamping it into the ground is my mother… but I have learned just not to talk about her anymore about my writing… I’m getting sick of her comments.

  1. Finding an Awesome Critique Partner | For What It's Worth
  2. What Type of Critique Partner are You? | My Literary Quest

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text:
Did a rapidly changing climate make early humans smarter?

The Week
Africa's Olduvai Gorge: The birthplace of humankind?

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Africa's Olduvai Gorge: The birthplace of humankind?

A new study points out that a constantly shifting environment may have forced us to get smart or die trying

The question: Scientists are always on the hunt for clues in our evolutionary history that might help explain why we have such highly advanced brains. Some have pointed to the advent of cooked food as a tipping point, giving our brains the nutrients and proteins needed to grow. Others say it's the invention of agriculture, which diverted our attention away from merely surviving to more intellectual pursuits. Now, scientists from Penn State University think the rapidly fluctuating climate some 2 million years ago may have forced homo erectus — a direct ancestor of modern humans — to change their behavior as they migrated from the forest to the dry, flat grasslands and back again. Did climate change spark a period of major intelligence gains?

How it was tested: Researchers focused on a region in Africa called the Olduvai Gorge — an area where humankind is thought to have originated. Scientists believed that the area began drying up 3 million years ago in something they call the "Great Drying," robbing the area of trees and other lush plant life. Biochemists used techniques like gas chromatography and mass spectrometry to analyze carbon isotopes from wax leaf samples. With that data, they were able to create a timeline for the amount of vegetation in the area over a period of 200,000 years.

The outcome: The area didn't dry out slowly and consistently over time, but was instead highly variable, meaning it was changing all the time. In just 10 to 100 generations, early humans would have had to migrate from areas with trees and forest cover to vast open areas with only grass — and vice versa. The temperature was constantly in flux, possibly as a result of changes in the Earth's orbit around the sun. More intriguingly, variability in the environment happened to coincide with a critical period in human evolution when the first hand tools began to emerge.

What the experts say: "Changes in food availability, food type, or the way you get food can trigger evolutionary mechanisms to deal with those changes," says researcher Clayton Magill. "The result can be increased brain size and cognition, changes in locomotion, and even social changes — how you interact with others in a group. Our data are consistent with these hypotheses." Yes, "there was a complete restructuring of the ecosystem from grassland to forest and back again," says researcher Katherine Freeman. "I've worked on carbon isotopes my whole career, and I've never seen anything like this before."

The takeaway: The Great Drying may not have happened after all, and our homo ancestors were likely forced to adjust to a brutal, changing landscape in just a few generations. In other words: We either had to get smart fast, or die trying.

SEE ALSO: 4 bizarre experiments that should never be repeated

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How To Remotely Manage Application-Server Instances

Posted by marinasum on October 26, 2005 at 3:11 PM PDT

Another article that I published this week, Remote Management of Application-Server Domains, also cowritten with Sun senior staff engineer Mark Basler, shows you how to manage a domain of application-server instances. The trick is to export the hierarchy of the J2EE Management Model. Step by step, the article describes the configurations, security permissions for the Web module, and the procedure for running the J2ME Web-service client.

In addition, you're invited to visit the ongoing Java BluePrints Project on A ton of best-practice tips and guidelines for designing applications and Web services there, all complemented with examples.

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Public Draft of JSR 286 In Review

Posted by marinasum on August 22, 2007 at 2:35 PM PDT

Wesley Budziwojski's recent posting on The Portal Post carries the news that the public draft of JSR 286, Java Portlet Specification 2.0, is in review. He also highlighted some of the key features in that spec.

That's exciting news. Early this year, Wesley and I cowrote the article, Introducing Java Portlet Specifications: JSR 168 and JSR 286. Lots of steady progress have been made on JSR 286 since then, and the public review is set to complete soon—on August 27, 2007.


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String's equals method isn't always enough

Posted by joconner on June 28, 2006 at 1:24 AM PDT

I read Ethan Nicholas' blog about intern'd strings with great interest. I agree with his assessment that using '==' to compare String objects is almost never correct. He suggests that String's equals method is superior. His description of the intern method is excellent, and I wouldn't want to detract from his comments. He is right on...the equals method is the right way to compare many strings. However, I think you need to know more about string comparisons, especially why equals does not provide the correct results all the time.

The Problem with String's equals

The problem shows up when you want to compare text you do when you use a standard word dictionary. The String class just doesn't have the ability to compare text with natural language in mind. String's equals and compareTo methods compare the individual char values in the string. If the char value at index n in string1 == the char value at index n in string2 for all n in both strings, the equals method returns true. So what's the problem?

The problem is that there are often multiple ways to represent the same text in Unicode. For example, the name "MichÃ¨le" can also be represented as "Miche`le" in Unicode. The second version of the name uses a "combining sequence" ('e' + '`') to represent 'Ã¨'. String's simplistic equals method says that these two Strings have different text. They are not lexicographically equal, but they are definitely equal linguistically. Combining sequences are perfectly valid representations of accented characters.

The following code snippet prints this: The strings are not equal.

String name1 = "MichÃ¨le";
String name2 = "Miche\u0300le"; //U+0300 is the COMBINING GRAVE ACCENT
if (name1.equals(name2)) {
  System.out.println("The strings are equal.");
} else {
  System.out.println("The strings are not equal.");

The Problem with String's compareTo

The compareTo method is flawed too...from a linguistic perspective anyway. It compares the char values similar to equals. You can read up on the details of the comparison in the javadoc. The end result is a very simplistic decision about which string precedes the other. Using compareTo, your code would think "Hat" precedes "cat". Why? Because uppercase 'A' through 'Z' come before lowercase 'a' through 'z' in the Unicode (and ASCII) table. Any kid knows which of these comes first in a dictionary, but the compareTo method is blissfully unware that its simplistic evaluation would confuse most people.

The following snippet prints this: Hat < cat

String w1 = "cat";
String w2 = "Hat";
int comparison = w1.compareTo(w2);
if (comparison < 1) {
  System.out.printf("%s < %s\n", w1, w2);
} else {
  System.out.printf("%s < %s\n", w2, w1);

When are These Results Wrong?

If you're trying to sort a list of names, the results of String's equals and compareTo methods are almost certainly wrong. If you want to search for a name, again the equals method will subtly trip you up if your user enters combining sequences...or if your database normalizes data differently from how the user enters them. The point is that String's simplistic comparisons are wrong whenever you are working with natural language sorting or comparisons. For these types of linguistic comparisons, you need something more powerful. And what might that be?

What is a Collator?

The java.text.Collator class provides linguistic comparisons. It's not as fast as String's compareTo, but it is supposed to be correct for linguistic comparisons. If correctness in that situation is important to you, you have to use this class.

If you used a Collator instance, you'd see that "cat" really does come before "Hat", and that "MichÃ¨le" and "Miche`le" can be considered the same in many situations, usually those in which natual language processing is important.

You should know that a Collator is locale sensitive. That is, it performs differently depending upon the locale for which it is created. Different geographic regions compare words differently, using different rules for which letters and accents come before (and after) others. Let's look at some comparisons using a Collator object.

The following comparison prints this: The strings are equal.

Collator collator = Collator.getInstance(Locale.US);
String name1 = "MichÃ¨le";
String name2 = "Miche\u0300le";
int comparison =, name2);

if (comparison == 0) {
  System.out.println("The strings are equal.");
} else {
  System.out.println("The string are not equal.");

If you browse around the Collator javadoc for long, you'll notice that it has various properties that you can set to modify its comparison behavior. That stuff is interesting, and you'll need to learn more about it sometime, but it's not important for the discussion here. The main point I want you to understand is simply this: String's equals method does not work for everything. Although equals or even == might be fine for testing some types of Strings (like Button action commands), these methods are not sufficient for more complex comparisons.

The Conclusion

Take a look at the Collator class to determine when a linguistic comparison might be more appropriate than a simple == or equals check. You might be surprised to find that you've been using the wrong API in many places. I'm not saying you have to go through your code to change every occurance of one API to the other, but you might start thinking about where a Collator is the correct choice. It's particularly useful when sorting and searching text.

One Last Thing

Can you guess which class (String or Collator) can help you match the word "MichÃ¨le" even though a user enters "Michele" (without the accent) into your application?

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