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2 episodes with conclusion as
2 episodes with conclusion as
2 episodes with conclusion as
2 episodes with conclusion as
INTRODUCTION: “Never Read A Bible Verse” “Choose this day whom you will serve … But as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD.” “Now therefore fear the LORD and serve Him in sincerity and in faithfulness. Put away the gods that your fathers served beyond the River and in Egypt, and serve the LORD. 15 And if it is evil in your eyes to serve the LORD, choose this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your fathers served in the region beyond the River, or the gods of the Amorites in whose land you dwell. But as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD.” v. 1-13: WORSHIP THROUGH COVENANT “Joshua gathered all the tribes of Israel to Shechem and summoned the elders, the heads, the judges, and the officers of Israel. And they presented themselves before God. 2 And Joshua said to all the people, “Thus says the LORD, the God of Israel, ‘Long ago, your fathers lived beyond the Euphrates, Terah, the father of Abraham and of Nahor; and they served other gods. 3 Then I took your father Abraham from beyond the River and led him through all the land of Canaan, and made his offspring many. I gave him Isaac. 4 And to Isaac I gave Jacob and Esau. And I gave Esau the hill country of Seir to possess, but Jacob and his children went down to Egypt. 5 And I sent Moses and Aaron, and I plagued Egypt with what I did in the midst of it, and afterward I brought you out. 6 “‘Then I brought your fathers out of Egypt, and you came to the sea. And the Egyptians pursued your fathers with chariots and horsemen to the Red Sea. 7 And when they cried to the LORD, He put darkness between you and the Egyptians and made the sea come upon them and cover them; and your eyes saw what I did in Egypt. And you lived in the wilderness a long time. 8 Then I brought you to the land of the Amorites, who lived on the other side of the Jordan. They fought with you, and I gave them into your hand, and you took possession of their land, and I destroyed them before you. 9 Then Balak the son of Zippor, king of Moab, arose and fought against Israel. And he sent and invited Balaam the son of Beor to curse you, 10 but I would not listen to Balaam. Indeed, he blessed you. So I delivered you out of his hand. 11 And you went over the Jordan and came to Jericho, and the leaders of Jericho fought against you, and also the Amorites, the Perizzites, the Canaanites, the Hittites, the Girgashites, the Hivites, and the Jebusites. And I gave them into your hand. 12 And I sent the hornet before you, which drove them out before you, the two kings of the Amorites; it was not by your sword or by your bow. 13 I gave you a land on which you had not labored and cities that you had not built, and you dwell in them. You eat the fruit of vineyards and olive orchards that you did not plant.' Exodus 6:7, “I will take you to be My people, and I will be your God, and you shall know that I am the LORD your God.” Jeremiah 7:23, “Obey My voice, and I will be your God, and you shall be My people. And walk in all the way that I command you, that it may be well with you.” v. 14-18: WORSHIP THROUGH COVENANT 14 “Now therefore fear the LORD and serve Him in sincerity and in faithfulness. Put away the gods that your fathers served beyond the River and in Egypt, and serve the LORD. 15 And if it is evil in your eyes to serve the LORD, choose this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your fathers served in the region beyond the River, or the gods of the Amorites in whose land you dwell. But as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD.” 16 Then the people answered, “Far be it from us that we should forsake the LORD to serve other gods, 17 for it is the LORD our God who brought us and our fathers up from the land of Egypt, out of the house of slavery, and who did those great signs in our sight and preserved us in all the way that we went, and among all the peoples through whom we passed. 18 And the LORD drove out before us all the peoples, the Amorites who lived in the land. Therefore we also will serve the LORD, for He is our God.” Joshua 1:8, “This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success.” John 14:23-24, “If anyone loves Me, he will keep My word, and My Father will love him, and We will come to him and make our home with him. 24 Whoever does not love Me does not keep My words. And the word that you hear is not Mine but the Father's who sent Me.” v. 19-28: WORSHIP THROUGH COVENANT “But Joshua said to the people, “You are not able to serve the LORD, for He is a holy God. He is a jealous God; He will not forgive your transgressions or your sins. 20 If you forsake the LORD and serve foreign gods, then He will turn and do you harm and consume you, after having done you good.” 21 And the people said to Joshua, “No, but we will serve the LORD.” 22 Then Joshua said to the people, “You are witnesses against yourselves that you have chosen the LORD, to serve Him.” And they said, “We are witnesses.” 23 He said, “Then put away the foreign gods that are among you, and incline your heart to the LORD, the God of Israel.” 24 And the people said to Joshua, “The LORD our God we will serve, and His voice we will obey.” 25 So Joshua made a covenant with the people that day, and put in place statutes and rules for them at Shechem. 26 And Joshua wrote these words in the Book of the Law of God. And he took a large stone and set it up there under the terebinth that was by the sanctuary of the LORD. 27 And Joshua said to all the people, “Behold, this stone shall be a witness against us, for it has heard all the words of the LORD that He spoke to us. Therefore it shall be a witness against you, lest you deal falsely with your God.” 28 So Joshua sent the people away, every man to his inheritance. Hebrews 13:20-21, “Now may the God of peace who brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus, the great shepherd of the sheep, by the blood of the eternal covenant, [that's what He's done] equip you with everything good that you may do His will, working in us that which is pleasing in His sight, [that's what He's doing in and through us] through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory forever and ever. Amen. [that's why we do it]” Hebrews 12:1-2, “Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, 2 looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God.” v. 29-33: WORSHIP WITH COVENANT Picking up at verse 29, “After these things Joshua the son of Nun, the servant of the LORD, died, being 110 years old. 30 And they buried him in his own inheritance at Timnath-serah, which is in the hill country of Ephraim, north of the mountain of Gaash. 31 Israel served the LORD all the days of Joshua, and all the days of the elders who outlived Joshua and had known all the work that the LORD did for Israel. 32 As for the bones of Joseph, which the people of Israel brought up from Egypt, they buried them at Shechem, in the piece of land that Jacob bought from the sons of Hamor the father of Shechem for a hundred pieces of money. It became an inheritance of the descendants of Joseph. 33 And Eleazar the son of Aaron died, and they buried him at Gibeah, the town of Phinehas his son, which had been given him in the hill country of Ephraim.” CONCLUSION: “As it Began … So it Ends”
For additional notes and resources check out Douglas’ website.Why immigrants should be welcomed:In some of the uncharitable attitudes exhibited in the discussion there is more than a hint of hypocrisy.“Give me your tired, your poor / Your huddled masses, yearning to breathe free. / The wretched refuse of your teeming shore. / Send these, the homeless, tempest-tost to me. / I lift my lamp beside the golden door.” (inscription on the Statue of Liberty)We are called to obey the laws of the land, and yet our land (for us Americans) is a nation built of immigrants.The Bible calls us to love the alien (Leviticus 19:34), because God loves the alien (Deuteronomy 10:18-19).Yes these laws governed a church-state. Under the new covenant, the church is not a political entity.The Law of Moses teaches us much about the heart of God, yet it is not a platform for civil law in our time.Inflexible policies are rarely in harmony with the principle of love.Why illegal immigrants should return to their home nations / strive to become legal:Lying to immigration authorities can damage one’s conscience. Keeping a clear conscience receives a huge emphasis in the scriptures. Always being “on the run” can erode faith.Social services are expensive; somebody has to pay. (And some needs are more legitimate than others.) The scriptures also emphasize pulling one's own weight.In most countries there is a way to become a legal resident. It may be better to come clean, plead for clemency, and let God move in his own way.On the other hand...In some cases, going back to countries of origin is unrealistic or even dangerous (political or religious persecution)!The issues are complex. Anyone who denies there are any "gray areas" in scripture is unrealistic -- isn't being honest.It isn't the church’s job to be vigilantes who cause trouble or hardship for those who, for whatever reasons, have chosen to “hide” from immigration authorities.Conclusion:As long as there is human society on this earth, there will be nations and laws and borders. Without borders, states will be overrun by their enemies.Capitalism may work better than socialism, but Christ-followers are called to neither position.Christianity was never intended to be elevated to the level of national policy. That's because those on the narrow road will never be more than a small minority in their society.Each situation be considered on a case-by-case basis.Let us balance justice with compassion. How would Jesus have dealt with the illegal alien?
Link to bioRxiv paper: http://biorxiv.org/cgi/content/short/2020.06.28.176222v1?rss=1 Authors: Charupanit, K., Sen-Gupta, I., Lin, J. J., Lopour, B. A. Abstract: Objective: Studies of high frequency oscillations (HFOs) in epilepsy have primarily tested the HFO rate as a biomarker of the seizure onset zone (SOZ), but the rate varies over time and is not robust for all individual subjects. As an alternative, we tested the performance of HFO amplitude as a potential SOZ biomarker using two automated detection algorithms. Methods: HFOs were detected in intracranial electroencephalogram (iEEG) from 11 patients using a machine learning algorithm and a standard amplitude-based algorithm. For each detector, SOZ and non-SOZ channels were classified using the rate and amplitude of high frequency events, and performance was compared using receiver operating characteristic curves. Results: The amplitude of detected events was significantly higher in SOZ. Across subjects, amplitude more accurately classified SOZ/non-SOZ than rate (higher values of area under the ROC curve and sensitivity, and lower false positive rates). Moreover, amplitude was more consistent across segments of data, indicated by lower coefficient of variation. Conclusion: As an SOZ biomarker, HFO amplitude offers advantages over HFO rate: it exhibits higher classification accuracy, more consistency over time, and robustness to parameter changes. Significance: This biomarker has the potential to increase the generalizability of HFOs and facilitate clinical implementation as a tool for SOZ localization. Copy rights belong to original authors. Visit the link for more info
EPISODE 61: CBD FOR AUTISM With guest Dr. Rachna Patel INTRO: Hi, everyone! First and foremost, I want to thank everyone out there who has been patient with me these last couple of months. It turns out that working a 9-5 job, homeschooling my son, and running a nonprofit with these podcasts is a lot harder than I thought. Just know, that I’m doing my very best to bring you the most relevant information, from people within the autism community, to the best of my ability. Today, I’m speaking with Dr. Patel, who is a world-recognized expert in the field of Cannabinoid Medicine. CBD is something that we hear about all the time, but maybe perhaps, we still have very limited knowledge on. Stay tuned to hear Dr. Patel share information on CBD products, what to expect when using CBD products, while also dispelling some of our fears that we may have. Thanks for listening! SEGMENT: I’ve personally looked into CBD products, not only for myself, but also for my son. I’ve had conversations with many families on their use of CBD. Dr. Patel is with a company called Doc Patels, a company that produces CBD products made from industrial hemp plants derived on American farms which produce 100% 0.00% THC Broad Spectrum CBD products through their patented process. Their team of 30 engineers, scientists, a psychiatrist and even a dentist, along with their manufacturing partner, consist of Doc Patels. Let’s welcome Dr. Patel to our show. CONCLUSION: As families are looking for natural, healthy ways to help their loved ones, and even themselves, I hope you find this information helpful in your decision-making process. Every path is different, but whatever path you choose, know that we are here to support you along the way. Thanks so much for listening, and I’ll talk to you soon! ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: www.DocPatels.com
Science Says is supported by Leksi (https://Leksi.co): the best education and study app to convert your notes and articles to audio so you can listen and learn anywhere, anytime. Objectives: Undergraduate medical students experience a considerable amount of stress and anxiety due to frequent exams. The goal of the present study was to examine the development of exam related anxiety and to test for a correlation between anxiety and learning approaches. Methods: A whole class of 212 medical students was invited to participate in the study. During their first term, trait anxiety and learning approaches were assessed by use of the state-trait-anxiety inventory (STAI-T) and the approaches-and-study-skills-inventory-for-students (ASSIST), respectively. Acute state anxiety was assessed twice in the course of the second term. To that extent, the STAI-S in combination with measuring salivary cortisol were employed immediately before two oral anatomy exams. Results: Our most important results were that a surface learning approach correlated significantly with anxiety as a trait and that students with a predominantly strategic approach to learning were the least anxious yet academically most successful. Conclusion: As surface learners are at risk of being academically less successful and because anxiety is a prerequisite for burn-out, we suggest that medical faculties place particular emphasis on conveying strategies for both, coping with stress and successful learning. Cipra C, Müller-Hilke B. Testing anxiety in undergraduate medical students and its correlation with different learning approaches. PLoS One. 2019;14(3):e0210130. Published 2019 Mar 13. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0210130. This is an open access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original author and source are credited. Sections of the Abstract, Introduction, and Discussion are presented in the Podcast. Link to full text: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6415780/
Matthew 24:3–13 ESV 3 As he sat on the Mount of Olives, the disciples came to him privately, saying, “Tell us, when will these things be, and what will be the sign of your coming and of the end of the age?” 4 And Jesus answered them, “See that no one leads you astray. 5 For many will come in my name, saying, ‘I am the Christ,’ and they will lead many astray. 6 And you will hear of wars and rumors of wars. See that you are not alarmed, for this must take place, but the end is not yet. 7 For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom, and there will be famines and earthquakes in various places. 8 All these are but the beginning of the birth pains. 9 “Then they will deliver you up to tribulation and put you to death, and you will be hated by all nations for my name’s sake. 10 And then many will fall away and betray one another and hate one another. 11 And many false prophets will arise and lead many astray. 12 And because lawlessness will be increased, the love of many will grow cold. 13 But the one who endures to the end will be saved. The dramatic, visible, bodily return of Jesus is a bedrock doctrine of the Christian faith and is the hope of all believers. Matthew 16:27 ESV 27 For the Son of Man is going to come with his angels in the glory of his Father, and then he will repay each person according to what he has done. Acts 1:11 ESV 11 and said, “Men of Galilee, why do you stand looking into heaven? This Jesus, who was taken up from you into heaven, will come in the same way as you saw him go into heaven.” Hebrews 9:27–28 ESV 27 And just as it is appointed for man to die once, and after that comes judgment, 28 so Christ, having been offered once to bear the sins of many, will appear a second time, not to deal with sin but to save those who are eagerly waiting for him. The return of Christ will be preceded by the Last Days, characterized by events Jesus called birth pains . 1. Signs on the earth . 2. Signs in humanity . We are living in the last days . Hebrews 1:1–2 ESV 1 Long ago, at many times and in many ways, God spoke to our fathers by the prophets, 2 but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son, whom he appointed the heir of all things, through whom also he created the world. 1 Corinthians 10:11 ESV 11 Now these things happened to them as an example, but they were written down for our instruction, on whom the end of the ages has come. 2 Timothy 3:1–5 ESV 1 But understand this, that in the last days there will come times of difficulty. 2 For people will be lovers of self, lovers of money, proud, arrogant, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, 3 heartless, unappeasable, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not loving good, 4 treacherous, reckless, swollen with conceit, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, 5 having the appearance of godliness, but denying its power. Avoid such people. Jesus’ counsel to believers living in the last day can be summarized into two principles: Principle #1: Stay alert and active in the world, because there’s still time before He returns. Principle #2: Stay ready and detached from the world, because He could come like a thief . Conclusion: As a believer living in the last days, don’t become complacent or entangled . Rather, be alert and encouraged , because the Lord is coming soon!
What do we mean when we say “personal and relational wellness,” and why are they important for you as a leader? And how can you develop habits and routines that will help you stay healthy personally and in your relationships? We continue in our Wellness Series with this conversation about both personal and relational wellness. If you missed part 1, be sure to go back and listen to Episode 48. Staying Healthy as a Leader: Personal Wellness What do we mean by personal wellness? Our minds, our intellect Our emotions Our mental health If I’m feeling overwhelmed, it’s often because I’m not taking good care of my personal wellness. Neglecting our personal wellness can lead to stress, anxiety, depression and other mental health concerns. It’s important for you to know where your baseline is and be aware of this, especially when it comes to mental health so that you know when you may need additional support. How we can take care of our personal wellness as leaders: Doing things that help you to de-stress on a regular basis. Managing our emotions. Self-awareness--recognizing your own baseline for emotional and mental health. It takes a lot of self-awareness to figure out what things actually rejuvenate you and what things don’t. Regular rhythms of rest; having a Sabbath and times when you do not have work or a to-do list. Episode 260 of the Carey Nieuwhof Leadership Podcast with Ruth Haley Barton addresses the issue of busyness and the need for rest as leaders. Taking our thoughts captive. Reaching out for additional support from professionals. Holly and I both share some examples of how we stay healthy personally. Staying Healthy as a Leader: Relational Wellness Relational wellness means the health of your most important relationships. In Episode 15 - we talked about Healthy Relationships 101, and we really dove deep into our framework for how we see this topic. The health of our leadership is directly impacted by the health of our relationships. How we can take care of our relational wellness as leaders: Invest in your most important relationships; make space for these people. Creating rhythms and routines for your closest people. Develop friendships and mutually support one another. Grow in relational skills and/or address specific concerns (communication/conflict, mentoring, step-parenting). See the list of episodes below for episodes that address these areas. Don’t live in unforgiveness. It is not easy to forgive, but it important to work towards that in all relationships. We discuss some of the habits and routines we have created to keep our relationships healthy. Conclusion: As a reminder, all 4 areas of wellness are interconnected. We need to be intentional about our personal and relational wellness because things naturally deteriorate rather than improve. And finally, don’t try to focus on changing everything at once. Want some help figuring out how you are doing with your wellness? We have a quiz for you! Go to estherlittlefield.com/wellness to take the quiz! Other Episodes Mentioned: Episode 5: Designing a Life You Love with Lilah Higgins Episode 15: Healthy Relationships 101 for Leaders Episode 16: Healthy Communication for Leaders with Carrie Sharpe Episode 19: The Value of Mentoring with Elisa Pulliam Episode 21: How To Develop Healthy Relationships with your Children and Stepchildren with Gayla Grace Episode 22: What To Do When Relationships are Hard Episode 33: My Favorite Tools for Goal Setting, Planning and Creating Habits Key Quotes from the Episode: A routine is really important even if you don’t really love it. Living in unforgiveness in one relationship affects all of the others. For the full show notes for this episode, visit estherlittlefield.com/episode50. Episode Sponsor: Confident Leader Club If you are looking for a way to connect with like-minded women who understand how lonely leadership can be, to grow and broaden your skills as a leader, and to have some accountability to take action on your big goals, I want to invite you to join the Confident Leader Club. The doors open a few times per year, and you can get on the waitlist (or join if we are open) at confidentleaderclub.com. You don’t have to lead alone, and the Confident Leader Club will provide you with the community you’ve been looking for. Connect with Esther and Holly: Esther’s Website Holly’s Website Instagram Facebook Group Facebook Page This episode was originally published on estherlittlefield.com/episode50.
Contractor Success Map with Randal DeHart | Contractor Bookkeeping And Accounting Services
This Podcast Is Episode Number 0309, And It Will Be About Profit Draining Invoice Errors Contractors Make Without Realizing It Creating an invoice for the entire project seems like it is the simplest way to track payments and have the current balance. The harsh reality is that if all of the work is NOT done, accounts receivable is reflecting a balance due that is NOT REAL. Without proper tracking and matching of income and expenses, most construction companies never know if they made a profit until the job is over. However, due to your work’s nature, as construction contractors provide services on a per-job operation, issuing invoices make it all the more challenging and difficult than it has to be. The good news is that it doesn't have to stay that way. Consider the following invoicing errors contractors make and take actionable steps on how to avert them. Format You and your entire staff need to stick to a single standard invoice template that everyone will use throughout the job transaction. Not only will this make your paperwork look professional, having a uniform appearance gives your company credibility and integrity. Your client will appreciate how clear and straightforward it is to understand and check the payment details. A confused client will ask more questions that could’ve been avoided if accounts are itemized and charges are explained. Procedure Terms and conditions of payment should be discussed before starting a project. When a system is in place, it seems effortless to remind a client regarding prompt disbursement of money. Whether you incentivize with discounts for early payment or penalize for paying late, it all starts with formal documentation as agreed upon by both parties. Relying on good faith alone won’t pay your bills especially when you’ve completed your service on time. Date/Department Knowing when and where to send the invoice is an essential part of the procedure that changes with each job you take. Eliminate any confusion right from the start by taking note of the payment terms you’ve made, the company name, department, or contact information you are directing your invoices to. Filing Failure to back up and save copies of invoices invites trouble and disaster. Maintaining an accurate and up-to-date record of issued and paid bills will keep you from stress in the future. Use a numbering system to track and manage your invoices efficiently, this will save you time when you need it in case of customer disputes, pending accounts, and sending duplicates. Employee Human error, though inevitable, could at least be avoided in this case. Take time to develop specific rules and documentation for you and your employees to follow when invoicing a client. Investing a few hours learning accounting software is never a bad idea. You can start by asking your construction accountant to provide you and your crew with training and best practices so that everyone can deliver paperwork in accordance to your company’s standard. Conclusion: As a reminder, billing your clients is dependent upon your signed contract and sending invoices is based on the details of this agreement. Preventing these errors will undoubtedly help in speeding up the process of you getting paid and more so, getting paid on time. If you don’t know what to do or how to start, I recommend our Contractor Bookkeeping Review and Consultation with Randal. It is one of the most sought out services we provide and have helped many small construction business owners across the United States. To help with invoicing, Contractor Payment Application is also available in our store. Helping Contractors around the world is one of the reasons we added the Fast Easy Accounting Store.com Follow our blogs, listen to Contractor Success M.A.P. Podcast. We Appreciate Our Visitors, Listeners, and Subscribers. – Thank You!! Please feel free to download all the Free Forms and Resources that you find useful for your business. We are here to Help “A Little or A Lot” depending on your needs. About The Author: Sharie DeHart, QPA is the co-founder of Business Consulting And Accounting in Lynnwood, Washington. She is the leading expert in managing outsourced construction bookkeeping and accounting services companies and cash management accounting for small construction companies across the USA. She encourages Contractors and Construction Company Owners to stay current on their tax obligations and offers insights on how to manage the remaining cash flow to operate and grow their construction company sales and profits so they can put more money in the bank. Call 206-361-3950 or sharie.com
Introduction Growing up I had a terrible childhood. My father led by fear and terror, and it made our home a miserable place to be. Everyone was always on edge and very afraid. There was no two-way communication, he only barked orders and very little display of love. My father was extremely abusive, and in my home, I never experienced the luxury of being a child. So this episode is about how my children went from being entitled, spoiled little girls to labeling me as a "mean" mom. Download Episode When I became a mother, I wanted to give my kids everything I did not have growing up. Unlike my upbringing, I wanted theirs to be associated with fond memories, love, and great times. It was my goal to be the best mom I could be. I was everything and did everything for them. When they were young, it was great; they seem to appreciate everything I did. I would spend hours on end, running myself ragged, taking them to gymnastics, swim and soccer practices. Then, there were museums and play dates, vacations, and road trips, all done in the name of building great memories they could look back on when they were older. I wanted them to have great memories of me as a mother and of growing up. But as they approached pre-teens, then teens, I soon began to feel like I was doing too much and they were not doing enough. That I was giving all of me and they were not giving any of themselves. They had begun to expect everything but were not willing to give anything. Just a simple task of keeping their rooms clean or cleaning the kitchen without being asked became a weekly event of me reminding them to do so. Time to Change Course Yes, now they're in their teen years and I see the urgency to teach them life lessons; that life is not about always receiving, but you also have to give. Mom and dad are not responsible for doing everything while you sit back, reaping the benefits and contributing nothing. So the shift in their attitude from one of gratefulness to one of selfishness led me to have the talk with them. While talking, I told them they should not expect to be given everything from others without giving very little of themselves. I explained that as a family, we are a team and a team cannot be successful if all its players don't do their part. That to expect everything from your parents but not be willing to put in what little work you are responsible for is unacceptable. I felt like they were becoming way too entitled and that was the last thing I wanted for them to be. I wanted my children to understand that life is complicated and nothing comes easy without hard work. So as my words fell on deaf ears, I began to change my tactics in dealing with them. I was on a mission to no longer give tirelessly of myself without expecting the same from them. I made it clear to them that my going out of my way to do things for them would be solely based on their participation and efforts given both at home and school. So of course, this is how I started to "treat my children badly" because the spoiled children who wanted to receive everything they asked for, were now being held to a higher standard and viewed my husband and my expectations as punishment. Can you believe it, punishment? Now keep in mind, when I was growing up, Saturdays was clean the entire house day. Not only was I expected to clean my room, but my parent's room as well. Then, I had to turn around and wash, fold, and put away everyone's clothing, including my parents. Oh, and let's not forget I had to clean the kitchen without the help of a dishwasher. I was the dishwasher! My children have nowhere near the responsibilities my husband or I had growing up. All they have to do is clean their room, bathroom, and wash and fold their clothing and they are complaining! They don't even wash dishes, the dishwasher does that! So because I expected them to do their part I was no longer "nice." Then they have the nerve to mention allowance. Allowance! An allowance is for children who go above and beyond around the house. Merely cleaning what you are responsible for anyway, does not constitute an allowance. Conclusion As parents, it is our responsibility to let our children know our expectations of them. Don't assume they know what you need for them to do. Just as they expect us to protect, house, feed, and clothe them, they too must know what the rules of the home are, and what our requirements of them are as well. Lastly, you are not your kid's friend! I let my children know that I am 90% parent and 10% friend. As they age, get married, and have children the friendship will increase, but I am always their parent first. They know that I do not care if they are upset with me because my job is to parent them, not to worry about likes; leave the likes for their classmates. So if my children sometimes label me as "mean" or say I've "changed" because I refuse to raise spoiled and entitled daughters, then so be it! I have stopped giving more than I am receiving. There are no freebies in life; everyone has to earn what they get, and this lesson they too must learn.
The Three Steps to Writing a Bid Welcome to the wonderful world of government contracting. We wish you all the best in 2019 and thank you for your continued support of our blog, podcast and YouTube channels. Please remember to subscribe, click the notification bell, and hit the “Thumbs Up” button. This is episode number 40 for our podcast and episode number 6 for our YouTube channel. Today’s topic is on Three Steps to Writing a Bid. These simple steps will make the proposal process easier. Just try it. Step One There are three steps to writing a bid. The first step is analyzing the solicitation. It is imperative to read and understand the solicitation requirements. As this will help you determine whether to bid on the project. Once the decision to bid on a project is made the next step is to break down the solicitation. We need to make sure that your proposal addresses all the requirements of the solicitation. Remember the goal is to convince the buyers to award the contract to your company. Step Two Preparation and Research are essential when preparing your proposal. Start step two by breaking the solicitation down into different parts. Then use these parts to create a template. Now is the time to gather all the information needed to respond to the solicitation. Remember your goal is to demonstrate that your company is experienced and can handle the contract. Step Three In step three we will concentrate on writing and submitting our proposal. This is where you will show that you understand the solicitation requirements and have gathered the data necessary to prove that you know how you will meet the criteria. Writing the proposal is merely the task of assembling the information in a compact and organized way following the instructions given in the solicitation. Conclusion As you can see the steps of responding to a bid is not overly complicated once you break the process down into the three steps. This has been a simple overview of the steps of responding to a proposal. We will be covering each of these steps in more details in our next episodes. We notify our subscribers when releasing articles. Consider subscribing, clicking the notification bell and hitting the Thumbs Up for us. If you prefer to listen to articles, we also cover the same topics on our podcast "Federal Contracting Made Easy," or if you are a visual person, we have launched our YouTube channel here.
Set-aside Site Visits Required for 8(a) Businesses Welcome to the wonderful world of government contracting. This is episode number 036 and today’s topic is “Set-aside Site Visits Required for 8(a) Businesses?” Before we get started with our topic today you need to stop, provide a review of the podcast, and don’t forget to subscribe so you are kept up to date when new episodes are released. Also, be sure to check out today’s show notes for more information on today’s topic. Do you have a topic that you would like discussed on this podcast? Then email our host and she will ensure that we not only cover the topic but let you know when the topic is released. Congratulations on your acceptance into the 8(a) Business Development set-aside program. That can be quite a feat but is well worth the wait. Now that you are 8(a) certified it is time to educate you on the program. Remember the more you know the better prepared you are to make the best educated decisions for your business. Think of this article as a brief overview of just one small segment of the 8(a) program, the 8(a) set-aside site visit. What is an 8(a) Site Visit? SBA uses set-aside site visits in many ways. Set-aside site visits help the BOS gather facts and validate information. A set-aside site visit can also help determine how your business location impacts eligibility and compliance with the 8(a) program regulations. When are Set-Aside Site Visits Conducted? Set-aside Site Visits maybe conducted multiple times. The better you understand the regulations the better prepared you will be when your BOS comes to visit. Let's discover times when a BOS will visit. Bona fide Office Applying for a SBA approved Bona fide office will require a site visit. A Bona Fide Office is necessary for construction firms wishing to bid on 8(a) competitive contracts in another state or area not currently covered by their local district office. The SBA office where the Bona Fide Office resides will perform the site visit not your local office. Statutory Requirements SBA regulations require site visits at least once per year. This is a great time for your BOS to visit your office and get an update on how things are going. I have found that seeing something in person is much better than trying to understand a business from their business plan It is the perfect opportunity to get to know your BOS and to ask them questions that have been on your mind, but you have not had an opportunity to ask yet. Most BOSs will visit the 8(a) business when the business must recertify that it still meets the program requirements. However, it is up to each BOS to determine when to do the visits. Many BOSs will visit multiple firms within an area in order to save travel costs. Your BOS can visit Set-aside Site Visits Required for 8(a) Businesses your firm multiple times per year and they do not have to schedule an appointment. SBA can perform unannounced site visits. The decision resides with the BOS. Determining Service District Office SBA will use site visits to determine which SBA office will service the 8(a) business. There is usually only one SBA office in each state except those states that cover larger territories like California and Texas for example. Eligibility Determination A site visit help determine a business’s eligibility. For example, if your business is co-located with another business SBA may have to determine if the other business has any control over your business. Set-aside site visit may prove affiliation with another business. Eligibility Determination Determine whether a firm’s location impacts eligibility (e.g., size, affiliation, control) What Can Cause a Site Visit? A site visit may be prompted when a BOS has questions from a previous site visit or when reviewing your annual review paperwork. They also may visit when requested by SBA Headquarters. Conclusion As you can see that are several reasons why a BOS will visit your business. If you are operating from the location and have been completely transparent on your application, annual reviews and site visits there is nothing to worry about. It is best to think of your BOS as your partner. By keeping them in the loop on what is happening in your business they can better provide advice and guidance. As always, we hope you enjoyed today’s topic and are better prepared when the local SBA official comes to visit. Now stop, subscribe to this podcast and provide a rating. Your feedback is very important to us. If you have a topic you would like discussed, please contact me. My contact information will be in today’s show notes. To learn more about SBA's 8(a) program please see today’s show notes for links to our other episode on the 8(a) BD program. Do you prefer to read a blog? If so, we will have a link in our show notes to our blog. Links to our podcast with 8(a) as a topic. Intro 8a Set-aside Site Visits Required for 8(a) Businesses IMPORTANT UPDATE - We will soon be launching a YouTube Channel. Stay tuned for more updates!!!
This weeks episode is all about something that is right in front of us, every time we log in to LinkedIn but it's something that most of us take very little notice of......and I think that's a missed opportunity. I'm talking about data - about companies and their employees. Companies that are our competitors, customers or prospective customers. I think we should all be taking more notice of this data, more of that later but first........ Interesting Stuff I Saw This Week Unveiling Translations in the LinkedIn Feed When you click on 'See translation' you see this And here's how it compares to Google translate Conclusion: A fantastic feature that will be really beneficial to people who operate in countries like the Netherlands where you want to reach an English and native speaking audience with your posts. It will also be very handy when someone @mentions you in a post that is written in a foreign language - this happens to me at least twice a month! It's not as accurate as Google yet but should improve with time. At First VidCon Summit, LinkedIn Video Creators Celebrate “Special” Community Good to see LinkedIn recognised by the wider video creating community and given a spot at VidCon. I find it fascinating that these LinkedIn video creators, who seem to have come out of nowhere, are gaining almost 'YouTuber' like cult status! I do think that a feature like Instagram stories would be great for Linkedin, such as this; The only issue is that she has had to make this is IGTV (Instagram) so the portrait format looks awful on LinkedIn - hence the need for a way of making this type of video in the LinkedIn app. I believe that the next stage for video on LinkedIn is the combination of video and stories - live streaming is probably the next stage after that but I'm not sure the LinkedIn community is ready for live just yet! LinkedIn Data I was recently sent this article by a listener to the show; Recruiting on LinkedIn adds analytics and pointed questions I'm really not sure I understand the question about the ethics of using this analytics tool to raid a competitor - isn't that what everyone does? This tool just provides better information to allow recruiters to 'poach' those that are more likely to be interested. The ethical question around headhunting has always seemed bizarre to me, to suggest it is wrong would suggest that a company somehow 'owns' its staff - that seems to be on much thinner moral ground (ice) to me! Interestingly enough, someone else had mentioned LinkedIn's new Talent Insights feature to me recently and I had made a note to check it out. If you want to hear LinkedIn talk about it, the video below is set play at the part where they announced Talent Insights at their Talent Intelligence Summit earlier this year. LinkedIn describe Talent Insights as their most exciting product since Recruiter! It will be launched next summer (2019) There are two reports that it provides; Talent Pool which includes analysis based on a search by Job title/skill/location as follows; Total numbers plus or minus # that changed jobs in last 12 months How many jobs advertised Hiring demand index Location comparison City migration Main employers Which companies are increasing or losing staff in these areas Company Report. A deeper analysis of companies identified as main employers in point 7 above Skills Company locations Where they recruit from (employee source) Where do they go to after they leave This all seems pretty exciting for Recruiters and it got me thinking about how useful such data could be for other purposes. As I started to think about it I realised that much of the useful data can easily be extracted from Sales Navigator! Take this example; Account search by location, industry and number of employees, then I used the headcount growth slider to identify which companies had seen the highest growth over the last 12 months Furthermore, I can go into that company a drill down to a list of employees, here I can see exactly how long they have been at the company and in their role. This easily highlights those that are new. This can be very useful data used for the following; Competitor analysis Recruiting opportunities Business development Fast growth = increase need to buy your product/service downsizing = potential for financial assistance, interim services etc Conclusion As is often the case LinkedIn are demonstrating a lack of joined-up thinking. Much (not all) of what this new Talent Insights product provides can be found, quite easily within Sales Navigator already! I'm assuming this new product will come with a hefty price tag and we have to wait at least a year to get it! I've been quite disappointed with Sales Navigator recently. It's pretty hopeless as an engagement tool and LinkedIn.com is easily my preferred tool for posting, commenting etc but the data you can access is really very useful. What are your thoughts? How else could this data be used? You are 100% correct Rose, a company page is required to ensure that your company logo appears in your experience section which in turn ensures that it appears at the top of your profile. I would never suggest that people don't have a company page, you also need it for advertising and it can be useful as a way of getting people to your website. It's a good feature for branding and providing information about your company - it's just a very poor feature for engaging with people.
Contractor Success Map with Randal DeHart | Contractor Bookkeeping And Accounting Services
This Podcast Is Episode Number 02##, And It Will Be About ### Today's Guest Article Is From Tom Jager, professional blogger ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------- American science writer Robert Heinlein once said: “Progress is made by lazy men looking for easier ways to do things.” Do you agree? That’s okay if you don’t because laziness is a quality that is not commonly associated with success. However, working as little as possible is a strategy that many people embraced and ultimately reached new heights. For example, Dana Brownlee, the president of a corporate training company Professionalism Matters wrote on Entrepreneur that the “Lazy Entrepreneur” philosophy helped her to become incredibly successful and enhance her business in a unique way. So can laziness be good for business? What about contractors - can they be both lazy and successful? Undoubtedly, working as a contractor requires a lot of hard work and dedication to succeed, because the profession requires you to make most of the important decisions. Completing projects within deadlines, finding clients, negotiating prices, sending offers – all of this demands a lot of your time. But does that mean that you can’t enjoy occasional laziness? Of course not. Let’s see how you can be both lazy and successful as a contractor. Be Smart About Meetings For you as a contractor, meetings are important because you use them to get more clients. However, as important as they are, they can take a lot of time, and most of it can be dedicated to something different. On average, 25-50 percent of meeting time is wasted, according to MeetingKing. That’s why 47 percent of employees and managers consider too many meetings the biggest waste of time. To make sure that you’re not wasting time on meetings, use technology. It’ll help you to be more efficient and save a lot of time that you can spend doing what you want. Take Regular Breaks For some people (especially bosses!), taking regular breaks is perceived as destructive to effective and efficient work. That’s why most of employees spend the majority of their day at their desks, staring at computer screens. In addition to preventing some harm being done to your health, you should take regular breaks at your work to actually become more productive. Yes, you read it right: taking breaks and spending less time on working can turn you into a better worker. Think about it: have you ever faced a problem that you couldn’t resolve, decided to take a small break, and then the answer came to you suddenly? If you have, then you know that refreshing your brain helps to see a situation in a new way and come up with the right solution. Here are more benefits of taking regular breaks: They can prevent decision fatigue. Decision fatigue occurs when you have to make a lot of decisions and your willpower and reasoning ability wear down. Breaks are important for physical and emotional health. It is a known fact that constant sitting, for example, at your office desk, increases your risk for obesity diabetes, heart disease, and depression. You know what they say, “sitting is a new smoking.” Breaks increase creativity and productivity. Working for hours without taking breaks results in stress and exhaustion. On the other hand, taking some time for rest replenishes mental resources, refreshes the mind, and contributes to being more creative. By taking breaks from work, you’ll expose yourself to fun side activities that may inspire you to do something and provide you with positive energy. Automate as Much as You Can Technology can be your best helper with tasks that you do every day. For example, if you work in social media promotion, there is a good chance that your clients require you to build their presence by posting information on a daily basis. This task can be easily automated using tools such as Buffer that allow to schedule and manage social media posts across multiple networks. As the result, you’ll maintain the same productivity but have more time for something else. Besides, it’ll allow to be more consistent and give an opportunity to complete projects for clients who live in other countries because time differences don’t matter with automation. Let go of the Urge to Work for Work’s Sake Many people work just because they think they should. They’re not okay with doing nothing because they think that only hard work delivers stellar results. While they’re certainly right that working hard is good, but what about working smart? One should not work because it just seems smart. Why? Because working more doesn’t necessarily means better results. A much better way is to focus on the things that provide the real value for you, your customers, and your career. CONCLUSION: As you can see, being a lazy contractor isn’t necessarily a bad thing. In fact, it can be quite beneficial for your career because it helps to focus on something that really matters. About The Author: Tom Jager is professional blogger. He works at Proessaywriting. He has degree in Law and English literature. Tom has written numerous articles/online journals. You can reach him at G+ or Facebook. The Information Shown Below Is From Fast Easy Accounting Download The Contractors APP Now! Access code: FEAHEROS The QR Code Below Will Go Apple Or Android Store Whichever One You Need Simply scan the QR code below or search for ‘MyAccountants’ in the App Store and enter the Access code: FEAHEROS to utilize the powerful App features and capabilities, and benefit from having our Construction Accounting App at your fingertips, 24/7. Access code: FEAHEROS Or click to download the Contractors APP now from the App or Android store Click here to download the App on iOS: Click here to download the App on Android: I trust this podcast helps you understand that outsourcing your contractor's bookkeeping services to us is about more than just “doing the bookkeeping”; it is about taking a holistic approach to your entire construction company and helping support you as a contractor and as a person. We Remove Contractor's Unique Paperwork Frustrations We understand the good, bad and the ugly about owning and operating construction companies because we have had several of them and we sincerely care about you and your construction company! That is all I have for now, and if you have listened to this far please do me the honor of commenting and rating the Podcast www.FastEasyAccounting.com/podcast Tell me what you liked, did not like, tell it as you see it because your feedback is crucial and I thank you in advance. You Deserve To Be Wealthy Because You Bring Value To Other People's Lives! I trust this will be of value to you and your feedback is always welcome at www.FastEasyAccounting.com/podcast This Is One more example of how Fast Easy Accounting is helping construction company owners across the USA including Alaska and Hawaii put more money in the bank to operate and grow your construction company. Construction accounting is not rocket science; it is a lot harder than that, and a lot more valuable to construction contractors like you so stop missing out and call Sharie 206-361-3950 or email sharie@fasteasyaccounting.com Contractor Bookkeeping Done For You! Thinking About Outsourcing Your Contractors Bookkeeping Services? Click On The Link Below: www.FastEasyAccounting.com/hs This guide will help you learn what to look for in outsourced construction accounting. Need Help Now? Call Sharie 206-361-3950 sharie@fasteasyaccounting.com Thank you very much, and I hope you understand we do care about you and all contractors regardless of whether or not you ever hire our services. Bye for now until our next episode here on the Contractors Success MAP Podcast. About The Author: Our Workflow Removes Your Paperwork Frustrations For Contractors Who Prefer To Do Your Bookkeeping Fast Easy Accounting Do-It-Yourself Construction Accounting Store Is Open Most Contractors Setup QuickBooks Desktop Version In One Of Three Ways: #1 EZ Step Interview inside QuickBooks Setup #2 Asked Their Tax Accountant To Setup QuickBooks #3 They Attended A How To Setup QuickBooks Class Or Seminar And QuickBooks Does Not Work The Way They Want It Too! The Answer: #1 Click Here To Buy An Entire QuickBooks Setup For Your Specific Contracting Company #2 Click Here To Buy Just The Chart Of Accounts For Your Specific Contracting Company Short List Of Construction Contractors We Serve Asphalt ContractorAsphalt Contractor Brand New ContractorBrand New ContractorBrick And Stone ContractorBrick And Stone ContractorCabinet Installation ContractorCabinet Installation ContractorCarpentry ContractorCarpentry ContractorCarpet And Tile ContractorCarpet And Tile ContractorCommercial Tenant Improvement ContractorCommercial Tenant Improvement ContractorConcrete ContractorConcrete ContractorConstruction EmployeesConstruction EmployeesConstruction ManagerConstruction ManagerConstruction Support SpecialistConstruction Support SpecialistCustom Deck ContractorCustom Deck ContractorCustom Home BuilderCustom Home BuilderDemolition ContractorDemolition ContractorDrywall ContractorDrywall ContractorElectrical ContractorElectrical ContractorEmerging ContractorEmerging ContractorExcavation ContractorExcavation ContractorFinish Millwork ContractorFinish Millwork ContractorFlipper House ContractorFlipper House ContractorFlooring ContractorFlooring ContractorFoundation ContractorFoundation ContractorFraming ContractorFraming ContractorGeneral ContractorGeneral ContractorGlass Installation ContractorGlass Installation ContractorGutter ContractorGutter ContractorHandyman ContractorHandyman ContractorHot Tub ContractorHot Tub ContractorHVAC ContractorHVAC ContractorInsulation ContractorInsulation ContractorInterior Designer ContractorInterior Designer ContractorLand Development ContractorLand Development ContractorLandscape ContractorLandscape ContractorLawn And Yard Maintenance ContractorLawn And Yard Maintenance ContractorMasonry ContractorMasonry ContractorMold Remediation ContractorMold Remediation ContractorMoss Removal ContractorMoss Removal ContractorPainting ContractorPainting ContractorPlaster ContractorPlaster ContractorPlaster And Stucco ContractorPlaster And Stucco ContractorPlumbing ContractorPlumbing ContractorPressure Washing ContractorPressure Washing ContractorRemodel ContractorRemodel ContractorRenovation ContractorRenovation ContractorRestoration ContractorRestoration ContractorRoofing ContractorRoofing ContractorSiding ContractorSiding ContractorSpec Home BuilderSpec Home BuilderSpecialty ContractorSpecialty ContractorStone Mason ContractorStone Mason ContractorStucco ContractorStucco ContractorSubcontractorSubcontractorSwimming Pool ContractorSwimming Pool ContractorSwimming Pool And Hot Tub ContractorSwimming Pool And Hot Tub ContractorTile And Carpet ContractorTile And Carpet ContractorTrade ContractorTrade ContractorTree ContractorTree ContractorUnderground ContractorUnderground ContractorUtility ContractorUtility ContractorWaterproofing ContractorWaterproofing ContractorWindow ContractorWindow Contractor Additional QuickBooks Templates, Resources, And Services QuickBooks Set Up TemplatesSolopreneurQuickBooks Chart Of AccountsFree StuffQuickBooks Item Lists TemplatesConsulting We Serve Over 100 Types Of Contractors So If Your Type Of Company Is Not Listed Please Do Not Be Concerned Because If You Are A Contractor There Is A Good Chance We Can Help You! Call Now: 206-361-3950 Additional QuickBooks Templates, Resources, And Services QuickBooks Set Up Templates Solopreneur QuickBooks Chart Of Accounts Free Stuff QuickBooks Item Lists Templates Consulting We Serve Over 100 Types Of Contractors So If Your Type Of Company Is Not Listed Please Do Not Be Concerned Because If You Are A Contractor There Is A Good Chance We Can Help You! Call Now: 206-361-3950 If you are a blogger, who writes about construction we would like to hear from you. https://www.fasteasyaccounting.com/guestblogger Contractors_Success_MAP, Contractors_Success_Marketing_Accounting_Production, Contractor_Bookkeeping_Services, QuickBooks_For_Contractors, QuickBooks_For_Contractors,Contractors_Success_Map_Can_You_Be_Both_a_Lazy_and_Successful_Contractor
This month we are doing things a bit differently, and will be reviewing the book Post-Millennial Gothic: Comedy, Romance, and the Rise of Happy Gothic by Catherine Spooner. We will be discussing the impact Tim Burton, sparkly vampires, the creepy cute, Columbine, political discourse, Jillian Venters, and others have had on the cultural milieu of goth and the consumption of the Gothic in mainstream media. Our guests this month are Natalie and Trae! More Recommended books from this author: Contemporary Gothic Fashioning Gothic Bodies Chapter 1: 7:00 -Thesis, Introduction, methodology overview -Goth as a middle class culture of consumption Chapter 2: 53:15 -Tim Burton and his reshaping of modern Gothic Chapter3: 57:42 -The increased reliance of the visual in goth -The politicization of goth through Columbine and Sophie Lancaster Chapter 4: 1:22:44 Premise 1: In the post millennial era, vampires have sought to become the institution rather than the subversion, to become as human or amiable towards humans as possible rather than be the Other Premise 2: Goths and vampires have shared a historically propinquitous relationship, often informing or appropriating one another Conclusion: As vampires have grown more polite and reinforced the “happy gothic” so too have goths sought to remake their image in a similar fashion Chapter 5: 1:37:37 -The modern goth girl and the "whimsical macabre" Chapter 6: 1:47:05 -Camp and it's influence on goth and the assimilative monster Chapter 7: 2:02:06 -Goth/Gothic masculinities and humerus monsters Chapter 8: 2:19:36 -Whitby Gothic Weekend and the Gothic-carnivalesque Conclusions 2:30:25
Show Rabbit Training. Hello Listener! Thank you for listening. If you would like to support the podcast, and keep the lights on, you can support us whenever you use Amazon through the link below: It will not cost you anything extra, and I can not see who purchased what. Or you can become a Fluffle Supporter by donating through Patreon.com at the link below: Patreon/Hare of the Rabbit What's this Patreon? Patreon is an established online platform that allows fans to provide regular financial support to creators. Patreon was created by a musician who needed a easy way for fans to support his band. What do you need? Please support Hare of the Rabbit Podcast financially by becoming a Patron. Patrons agree to a regular contribution, starting at $1 per episode. Patreon.com takes a token amount as a small processing fee, but most of your money will go directly towards supporting the Hare of the Rabbit Podcast. You can change or stop your payments at any time. Thank you for your support, Jeff Hittinger. Can bunnies be trained? Can they learn? Can they be taught? Yes, yes and yes!... They can. In fact they are quite clever little things and are quick to learn. They enjoy the interaction and stimulation too. First we are going to look at the psychology behind training a rabbit. Why is a Rabbit Not Like a Dog? Let's compare a rabbit to a dog, that quintessential model of (potential) obedience. The ancestral dog was a cooperative pack animal. He was utterly submissive to his alpha dog: the chief of the pack. Humans took that characteristic and bred domestic dogs to have a very strong desire to please their *new* alpha, the Human Master. Most dogs have a puppy-like desire to please their perceived alpha, and this is what makes them so easy to train (at least in the hands of an experienced dog trainer who understands the way a dog's mind works). Now consider the rabbit. The wild rabbits from which our domestic friends are descended are indeed social creatures--but they are herbivores who have not had the evolutionary pressure to be highly cooperative. The family group lives in a series of excavated tunnels (the warren) in the earth. There is a social hierarchy, but it is generally based on which rabbit is the strongest and toughest. Rabbits cooperate only in the sense their evolutionary programmed alarm systems benefit the entire warren. Rabbits can certainly be extremely affectionate with one another, but they also have distinct likes and dislikes of other rabbits. It's often impossible for a human to guess which rabbits will fall in love, and which ones will hate each other from the start and never learn to get along. Surprisingly, it's often easier for a rabbit to get along with a human, cat, dog, guinea pig or other animal than with an unfamiliar member of his/her own species. Unlike dogs, rabbits have no innate desire to please an alpha. If the human caregiver becomes so frustrated with the apparent disobedience of the rabbit that s/he becomes physically abusive, the rabbit will begin to consider the human as an enemy, and never forget the physical punishment. Hitting a rabbit is not only dangerous to the animal (the skeleton is extremely fragile), but unproductive. The rabbit subjected to physical punishment may become extremely aggressive, hopelessly fearful or--believe it or not--vindictive. With love and patience, the human caregiver can teach the bunny what is acceptable and what is not. The only effective way to train a rabbit away from undesirable behaviors is with positive reinforcement and very gentle negative reinforcement, such as a squirt with a water bottle and a firm "No!" when the bunny is being naughty. Rabbits are very clever and actually enjoy learning new things. Learning through play is the best way to teach your bunny, and if you add some of their favorite treats as a reward, it makes the whole process much easier and rabbits will look forward to 'rabbit training time'! People Pleasers As more people are realizing that rabbits are social creatures and love the company of their owners, lucky bunnies everywhere are being brought inside the family home, to live, sleep, play and socialize. In turn, they are learning new habits, routines and games. Rabbits are enjoying the freedoms other pets, like cats and dogs, have long since been a part of, rather than suffering the confinement of an outside, dingy, damp, lonely hutch at the bottom of the garden. And about time too! Rabbit training can be for practical reasons of course, but certain types of training can be helpful and rewarding in other ways too. Let's take a more in-depth look at rabbit training and it's uses: ⦁ Litter Box Training - Learn the basic steps to successful rabbit toilet training, important for indoor rabbits but also can benefit outdoor bunnies too. ⦁ Clicker Training - Rabbits are very reward-based when it comes to doing as they are told. Sound association is an excellent way to get them to remember! ⦁ Harness Training - There's lots of reasons why harness rabbit training is a good idea and your bunnies will take to it, or they won't, but there are ways to help them get used to . ⦁ Agility Training - Agility courses for rabbits are becoming more popular worldwide. Rabbits and owners enjoy the exercise but there are a few things to follow before you get your rabbits running through tunnels! ⦁ Show Jumping Rabbit Training - Much like agility training but more competitive, especially in Scandinavia where it all started. But seeing a rabbit jump over hurdles like a little horse is amazing & rabbits love it too! ⦁ Show Rabbit Training - If you are breeding beautiful, pictures of perfection or even rare rabbits, you'll want to show them off, but the correct behavior on the show table is important to their success and adds to the overall winning formula. On this episode we are going to specifically cover Rabbit Show Training for the show rabbit For more than 150 years, people have been exhibiting rabbits at shows. The showing of different breeds and varieties of rabbits at exhibitions and competitions has been around since the late 1800s and more people enjoy the fellowship of these events every day. Associations & Councils The BRC (British Rabbit Council) in the UK and the ARBA (American Rabbit Breeders Association) are two of the largest and most influential of the organizations. They have quite a strict standard of entry and list of regulations, but with the right rabbit training techniques and know-how, you too could have a prize-wining rabbit on your hands. Range All recognized breeds and varieties of rabbits can be shown and shows range from small club shows and county fairs to huge state and national events. This variety provides a wide range of competition for rabbit raisers, breeders and owners. Each show will have slightly different rules but the basics principals of showing rabbits are more or less the same worldwide. Lets take a look at a few things you and your rabbit will need to learn: Posing Your Rabbit Posing the rabbit on the table for the showmanship contest can be done in several ways (for example, sideways, facing the contestant, or facing the judge). However, the usual posing position is to have the rabbit face the judge. Posing the rabbit is done in such a way that the animal is neither stretched out too much nor tucked in too much depending on breed description. By properly posing your animal, you can give a good impression of the "type" of the breed. Some rabbit breeds are posed in a specific way, while some are not judged in a posed position. It is important that you know the proper pose for your rabbit and set the rabbit in this pose during the judge's evaluation. Practicing posing with your rabbits will help keep the animals calm while the judge is handling them. A rabbit that has not been handled will be scared or aggressive and will make it difficult for the judge to evaluate it. This could hinder your placing because it will not allow the judge to see your rabbits best qualities. The Domestic Rabbit book has a tutorial that states the pose and handling of various rabbit breeds. Practice Posing Practice makes perfect! You should practice posing your rabbits properly and going through the routine that the judges will use to check your rabbits for disqualifications and placings. This is also great practice if you will compete in rabbit showmanship. If you plan to compete in rabbit showmanship, you should say aloud each step as you practice checking and posing your rabbit. This will help you build your confidence since you will need to do so during showmanship in order to demonstrate to the judge that you know your rabbit stuff! When practicing posing your rabbit, make sure you have a table and a rug or a piece of carpet upon which to set the animal. Never try to set up the animal on a smooth surface since it may slip and will not get a good grip, and this action would affect the pose negatively. Steps to Good Posing Follow these rabbit training steps if you want to pose your rabbit effectively and correctly ⦁ Cover the rabbit's eyes with the palm of your hand so that it will sit calmly rather than struggle. ⦁ With your other hand, set the forelegs in alignment with the eyes and the hind legs in alignment with the hips. ⦁ Gently stroke the rabbit on the back when the positioning is finished so that the animal will sit calmly in the posing position. ⦁ Keep your movements to a minimum; the less you have to do to secure the proper response from your animal, the better your performance will be judged. ⦁ It is important to pose the rabbit to the front facing the judge, because several people will be working side-by-side behind the table and the rabbits will be positioned close together. ⦁ If they are posed sideways, a rabbit (especially a buck) may be tempted to mount an adjacent rabbit. Posing straight ahead should diminish this problem and that the rabbits are posed at least two feet apart. ⦁ When the judge gives the command "pose," you will have two to three minutes to place the animal in the proper pose. ⦁ You should then take a step back and stand at attention. Examining Your Rabbit rabbit show handling In the showmanship part of the rabbit contest, the judge attempts to determine each participant's practical knowledge by checking the rabbit for defects and disqualifications. You will need to demonstrate your practical skill at examination, and the judge will evaluate you on how smoothly, systematically, and confidently you perform each of the examination sections. The examination can be broken down into the following steps: ⦁ Start with the head area. Squeeze the base of each ear to determine whether the animal has any ear mites. If the animal struggles, you can suspect it has ear mites. ⦁ Open and examine each ear to ascertain that the rabbit does not have ear mites. ⦁ Check the rabbit's eyes by pointing your index finger at each eye to make sure the animal is not blind. Also check each eye to make sure that the rabbit does not have weepy-eye, a disease problem. ⦁ Turn your rabbit smoothly on its back. This is a very important step. Judges will be closely observing whether the rabbit is under your control. ⦁ Make sure you provide enough support on the table for the rabbit when you turn it around. Don't allow the animal to struggle or kick you in the face. Try to accomplish the turn in your initial attempt. The turning should be done in a very smooth way. ⦁ Practice turning the rabbit on its back by getting a firm hold of the shoulder skin over the ears (as you do when beginning to handle your animal). ⦁ Keep the hindquarters resting on the table and use your right hand to make a swing to the right so that the animal is completely on it back. ⦁ Keep a firm grip with your right hand while supporting the weight of the animal on the table. ⦁ Point your left index finger to the rabbit's nose area and look for any white discharge (a sign of a cold). ⦁ With your left thumb and index finger, pull back the animal's lips (first the upper and the lower) to check the condition of the teeth. ⦁ Carefully check for any problems with buck teeth, a hereditary condition which is a disqualification. ⦁ Pull each front leg toward you to see if the legs are straight, crooked, or bowed. ⦁ Press the palm of each foreleg to examine the color of the toenails and to look for missing toenails. ⦁ Run your left hand over the chest and abdomen areas to check for any abscesses, tumors, or other abnormalities. ⦁ As you come to the end of the abdomen area, grasp the thigh area of the hind legs and push it straight downward with the palm of your left hand to determine the straightness of the hind legs. Note whether or not they are parallel. ⦁ Release your hand from the high area and check the hock areas to any sign of sore hock. If a scab is visible, press it to see whether it is an old scab or if it is fresh. If it is fresh, it will bleed and the animal may struggle. This would then mean an elimination. ⦁ Examine the color of the toenails on the hind legs; also check for missing nails. ⦁ Check the sex area of the animal to determine the sex and locate any obvious disease problem. ⦁ To check the sex, hold the tail between your left index and middle fingers and press down on the sex area with your thumb. Apply a slight pressure. ⦁ Feel the tail to see whether it is broken. ⦁ Turn the rabbit back to the original position (its head facing your left). ⦁ Check the balance of the tail to see whether the rabbit has a wry tail or any other tail deformity. ⦁ Set the ears of the rabbit properly. Check to see if they are carried in a position which is normal for its breed. ⦁ Check the meat quality of the animal by feeling the meat on the shoulders, ribs, loins, rump, etc. ⦁ Examine the fur quality by running your hand from the tail to the head and back. Look at the guard hairs. You may also blow on the fur to examine the density of the fur. Selecting and Grooming Rabbit Training Class Determination You must be sure of the sex of any rabbits you are going to show, because sex is one of the things that determines the class in which you will enter your rabbits. The other factors that determine class are the age, weight, variety, and breed of your rabbits. You should check the necessary standards for your breed. rabbit grooming You will also need to begin grooming your rabbits that you have selected for show at least 6 weeks before the show date. Daily grooming not only improves the appearance of your rabbits, it also tames them and makes them easier to handle at the show. Good Tip It is also a good idea to play a radio near your rabbit house to get them used to voices and the extra noise they will certainly encounter at shows. How to Prepare for a Rabbit Show Choosing rabbit(s) and completing show entries First and foremost you have to choose the animals that you believe will be of show quality and will do well at the show. Some shows, such as county fair shows and 4-H shows, also require that participants carry out additional activities as part of their rabbit competition. These additional entries should not be seen as a daunting task, but instead as a more opportunities to excel in your rabbit project and be rewarded for your hard work. You should complete these entries well in advance. Nutrition and Conditioning Months prior to the show you should be conditioning your rabbit for the show. Make sure that your animal is getting the proper nutrition. If you choose to feed your rabbit supplements, first contact your veterinarian or use a knowledgeable, reputable source, then follow the instructions given. ALWAYS make sure that your rabbit has water available. Grooming You should groom your rabbit often. Grooming will help your rabbit’s temperament by allowing the animal to get used to being handled. It will also greatly improve the condition, luster, body and texture of your rabbit’s coat. It will also help you establish a trust relationship with your rabbit. The rabbit will learn to trust you and hence not become as stressed when handled. This will also help you to learn your rabbit’s habits. Also remember to cut your rabbit’s nails prior to the show. Register for the show Some shows require that you register in advance and may require that an entry fee be paid. Make sure that you complete the registration in advance and whatever additional requirements there may be in order to participate. If your entry is submitted late, you may not be allowed to participate in the show. Transportation Transporting the animals to and from the show should be done as comfortably for the animal as possible. Exposing the rabbit to extreme heat or cold can be damaging to both the animals condition and health. Make sure that you take water bottles, feeders, feed and water to rabbit shows the rabbit show. If the rabbit it traveling in an air-conditioned car, make sure that the A/C vent is not directly blowing air at the rabbit as this can make them sick. Be on time It is your responsibility at a rabbit show to make sure your animals reach the judging table at the appropriate time. In order to accomplish this, one must pay attention to the order of judging, which judge will be handling your breed, and which variety and class is to be brought up for judging next. Now we discussed some breeds needing to be posed differently, and one of those is the Belgian Hare. Training Belgian Hares to pose Training and Showing By Frank Zaloudek When you look at the picture of the Belgian Hare in the ARBA Standard of Perfection, your attention is immediately drawn to its pose, standing on the toes of its fully extended front legs, ears erect, body carried high above the floor and with a wild look in its eye. If you have been around Belgians for a while, you will learn that this is the pose it takes only when excited, startled or when it is eagerly anticipating food or drink. It is not a pose that it would take in a relaxed, non threatening situation or in the intimidating surroundings of the showroom. How do you get you Belgians to pose as it the picture? The simple answer is that they have to be trained! The problem is that there are many ways an exhibitor can train a Hare to pose, and there are just as many ways that judges use to pose a Hare. If the Hare's training and the judges set-up technique "click", then it might be successfully posed; otherwise, the judging can degrade to a "wrestling match" ("acrobatics at a Halloween party" as characterized by the late Dr. Terry Reed) between the judge and the Hare during which time is wasted and the Hare, no matter how deserving, will be at a disadvantage to Hares that pose easily. How can these "wrestling matches" be avoided? Is it the responsibility of the judges, of the breeder/exhibitor, or both? Perhaps we can get some answers to these questions if we look at techniques used and advocated by some judges and breeder/exhibitors. There seems to be a number of basic methods in use at the present time. These methods can be characterized in the following descriptive terms: The "natural pose" method The "shoulder pressure" method "Ear lift" method "Head lift" method "Body stretch" method and combinations of the above. Lets look at a description of each of these methods and comments on some of them as presented in past issues of the ABHC "Spotlight" and the ABHC Guidebook. Natural Pose Method In the "Natural Pose" method, no attempt is made by the judge to set up the Hare; instead, it is allowed to move about naturally in a judging coop. John C. Fehr wrote in the 1975 ABHC Guidebook, "Many a fine Belgian Hare loses out because of not being properly handled. You need not wrestle a Belgian Hare around nor stretch his limbs out like a chiropractor would do; he will show you in the coop where he is weak and where he stands out. Mr. Fehr described his judging technique as follows: "You must have a wire coop large enough so that your rabbit can run around and stand up, one for each entry. After you have taken them out to examine for disqualifications, they are placed back into the coop. Judging is then done in the coop. A good idea is to place one which looks good at the head of the class, the next best and so on. Now is the time to go along the line and study their action, moving them back or forward from coop to coop. Don't make snap judgments. After you eliminate your class down to the five winners, your job really begins all over again. Here the experienced Belgian Hare exhibitor has the advantage. He has worked with his Hares to the point that they are really proud to show off." By allowing the Hares to pose naturally takes the pressure off the judge to make the animals all assume a, more or less, identical pose. However, it requires the breeder/exhibitor to "condition" his hares so that they will move about the judging coop in a manner to show off their best attributes. A Hare cowering in the corner of the coop because of the intimidating surroundings and crowds will certainly will not show off his best stuff to the judge! What can the breeder do to prepare his animals? It's important that a breeder frequently handle his Hares so that they will be accustomed to being handled and examined. Placing them on the judging table before the show starts can get them familiar with the surroundings and placing them on your grooming table prior to judging can prepare them for the presence of spectators (a Hare on display seems to always be able to attract a crowd). Shoulder Pressure Method In an article written for the ABHC Spotlight, Dr. Terry Reed recommended that Belgian Hare enthusiasts attempt to train their animals using a method similar to the following: 1. Position the hind legs in a manner such that the animal is sitting squarely on the hind legs in a natural position. 2. With one hand between the forelegs, the front portion of the Hare is gently raised and at the same time very gently pushed backwards until the animal extends its front legs. 3. During the extension of the front legs, a light amount of pressure is placed on the shoulders with the opposing hand. 4. As the Hare rests the tip of the toes on the extended limbs, the hand is removed from between the legs. 5. Slight alternating pressure is maintained on the top of the shoulders until it can be removed and the animal maintains its stance. (The Hare will tend to rise up to resist the pressure, there by extending its front leg and raising its head.) 6. Stepping back from the table, it is anticipated that the animal will maintain position and look about alertly. 7. After the animal has been completely evaluated in the posed position, one can allow the animal to move back and forth on the table to evaluate the extension of limbs and other characteristics. Caution should be utilized not to "wear the animal out" on the table. Dr. Reed advised, " The posing position will not "just happen" with regularity and it is anticipated that the younger the animal and the more frequent it is handled and posed, the more natural it will become for the Belgian Hare to pose on the table. However, with noise, strange environment, and other peculiarities, the position must be adjusted from time to time to accomplish the correct pose." He also advised that, "Due to the extremely long legs, long body, fine bone, and fragile ears, it is extremely important that when handling the Hare, one is very gentle and uses extreme caution in protecting the animal to the best of their ability. Due to the temperament of the Belgian Hare, one must be firm, but not aggressive in the handling procedure or the animal will become extremely excited and there is a possibility of self trauma to these beautiful creatures." Most Belgian Hare breeders will agree that their animals are most certainly more robust than they appear and a judge should not be afraid of handling them in a normal manner. A Hare should, of course, not be abused, but neither should any other breed of rabbit. Ear Lift Method Ted Gordon described the "ear lift" method in the 1975 ABHC Guidebook. He noted, "Posing for show seems to be a matter of the Hare's confidence in the handler, much training so that the Belgian knows what is wanted, and the inborn proud attitude of the "King of the Fancy." "The system of training that seems to work for us begins at about weaning age. Time is spent every day even if it is just a minute apiece to get the animals used to being handled. I try not to "pet" them -- that is, stroke them from the shoulders to hips -- because then they tend to flatten out or crouch down (though they do enjoy being petted). Running both hands along the sides of the Hare, lifting the front quarters slightly and then tucking the hindquarters as you pass over them gives the young Hare the idea of being high on the front legs." To pose a Belgian Place the Hare on a piece of carpet facing left. 1. Place the back feet out at about 30 degrees on each side to give a good solid base to sit on, and untuck the tail if necessary. 2. Grasp the ears gently in your right hand and place the left hand, palm up and fingers pointing away from you, under the belly. 3. Move the left hand up to behind the front legs extending them fully. Lift with the left hand and at the same time gently raise the Hare with the right hand which is grasping the ears. Lift up and back with as much weight as possible on the rear feet. There is some gentle pull on the ears with your right hand, but you are also supporting the chest with the left hand. See the accompanying photograph for correct hand position. 4. Raise the Hare in this manner until his feet are clearing the carpet and hanging straight. Ease the pressure of the right hand on the ears and lower him slowly onto his tip toes, encouraging the Hare to support himself high on his front legs. "It will take many, many times to get a Hare to hold this stance at all -- as many as 20 to 25 attempts a day for a week before he learns. If he struggles, don't force him, but set him free and talk soothingly to him. Then start again. You gain the Belgian's confidence by working with him gently, and eventually he learns to enjoy the handling and seems to want to please you." Mr. Gordon noted that, "If the Belgian Hare is going to respond (and most, but not all, eventually do) it will come after many attempts, and each attempt should follow the same order so that the Hare becomes accustomed to the same routine each time. Once the Belgian Hare will bear his weight on the front legs, the next step is to get him to "hold it" for a longer and longer period of time, talking to him gently, praising his effort, and "radiating your pleasure at his performance. If you "feel with" your Belgians a sense of shared joy in each others existence, these beautiful sensitive animals will respond. The old timers tell me that years ago, a well trained Hare would "hold" for three minutes or more!!" Head Lift Method The "Head Lift" method is a variation of the Ear Lift Method and is seen practiced by some judges and breeders/exhibitors that are reluctant or unaccustomed to pulling on a rabbit's ears, no matter how gently. It can also be use on individual specimens that refuse to have their ears grasped. This method proceeds as follows: 1. Place the Hare facing away from you and to the left with back feet out at about 30 degrees on each side to give a good solid base to sit on, and untuck the tail if necessary. 2. Similarly to the Ear Lift Method, place the left hand, palm up and fingers pointing away from you, under the belly. Instead of grasping the ears, place the right hand along the Hare's left cheek. Place your bent thumb behind the ears and a finger under the Hare's chin. Use whatever finger is suitable to avoid placing pressure on the Hare's throat. Doing so will cause the Hare to struggle. 3. Move the left hand up to behind the front legs extending them fully. Lift with the left hand and at the same time gently raise the Hare's head with the right hand. Lift up and back with as much weight as possible on the rear feet. With you thumb, position the ears in the vertical position. 4. Raise the Hare in this manner until his feet are clearing the carpet and hanging straight, and slowly lower him onto his tip toes until his feet touch and the legs bear his weight. At some point, you will feel his body relax; when you do, slowly withdraw your left had from beneath his belly. 5. You will feel the Hare start to support his head and ease the pressure on your right hand. As he does, remove your right hand slowly in a manner that you do not brush the Hares whiskers abruptly. Doing so will make him flinch. 6. Anticipating that the Hare will hold this pose, stand back smartly and evaluate the animal. When training the hare to pose, lavish praise on him when he holds a pose, even if very briefly. Sometimes a treat such as a raisin or a black sunflower seed given in reward for a good performance will solidify his training. After repeating this procedure frequently, 20 or more times daily for a week, you will find the Hare holding the pose quickly will little effort on your part. Ideally, he will snap into the pose when placed on the carpet and hold it for a brief period of time, but only few progress to that type of performance. Body Stretch Method Some popular Belgian Hare judges are currently using a previously undescribed, but apparently very successful method of posing Hares. This method seems to work on both highly trained animals and those who have had only minimal training. Furthermore, this method appears to induce a Hare to show off its finest attributes, and it can net outstanding and consistent results. Although there are some variations on the application of this method, it essentially proceeds as follows: 1. Place the Hare on a piece of carpet at a 45 degree angle so that it is facing your right shoulder. 2. Straighten out the tail with your left hand if it is tucked under the body, and place your fingers under the body from the rear. 3. Place your right hand at the left cheek of the Hare, fingers extended. Place the bent forefinger in back of the ears, the bent ring or small finger under the chin, and the thumb on the forehead. Be careful not to put any pressure on the throat of the Hare or it will start struggling. 4. Simultaneously with both hands lift the Hare so that both fore and hind legs barely touch the rug. The Hare will extend its fore and hind legs to the maximum to try to maintain touch with the rug. Also, with the finger under the chin, tip the head slightly upwards and gently pull the head so that the Hare stretches out its body. Position the hare so that most of its weight will be placed on the hind legs when lowered to the rug. 5. Gently lower the Hare to the rug, tapping its front feet on the rug to encourage it to stand on its toes. Some will gently message the Hare's forehead with the thumb of the right hand to quiet the animal before releasing it; however, I have not found this particularly useful. Slowly slip the left hand from under the hind end, and as the Hare relaxes, remove your right hand from its head and step back to evaluate it. If at any time the Hare starts to struggle during posing, release it and start over again. This method seem to work best if the handlers actions are assertive but not abusive. Also, watch the palm of your right hand because it is in a vulnerable position should the Hare decide to bite. The particular advantage of this method is that it will encouraged the Hare to both stretch and position its body, both front and rear, well off the rug. One breeder doesn't start training hares until they are 10 weeks old. They were told that it is better to let their bones strengthen and I can see the sense in this. This breeder is probably in a small minority who don't start training Hares from a young age. However they find that it is no hindrance to the speed they learn. Conclusion As pointed out at the beginning, this is only a sampling of methods in use to pose Hares. There are probably other methods available and combinations of methods that will induce a Hare to assume the desired pose. However, it is important to note that a Hare will not pose without some effort be expended on the part of the breeder/exhibitor. With the many posing methods practiced by various judges, a breeder can only hope to expose his animals to enough of a variety of methods so that it will respond to the judges handling no matter what technique he uses. However, it means a lot of work by the breeder if he wants his animals to excel. It would be beneficial for both breeders and judges alike if some agreement, formal or informal, could be reached on a "standard" procedure. I have no propositions or suggestions on how such an agreement could be arrived at. A few additional recommendations from the 4-H Rabbit Showmanship 1. Wear long sleeves to protect your arms from getting scratched. 2. Handle your rabbit with care. 3. Handle your rabbit often. 4. NEVER lift or carry a rabbit by its ears. This is painful for the rabbit. Lifting by the ears causes damage to the ear veins. Also, without the entire body being supported, when a rabbit kicks to free itself, it may cause bone fractures in its back or hind legs, and cause injury to nerves or tendons. 5. NEVER lift a rabbit by its legs. This is painful, as well as can cause injury as mentioned in No. 4. 6. NEVER lift a rabbit by the scruff of its neck without supporting the entire body weight, as injuries can occur as mentioned in No. 4. 7.Put a rug or piece of carpet on the table or area where you are handling your rabbit, so it can get a foothold when being worked with. Smooth surfaces cause a rabbit to slide, making it hard to handle, groom, and pose. A rabbit will not feel secure on smooth places, and may become afraid. 8. Handle your rabbit during the cool part of the day. 9.Handling rabbits when it is too hot can cause unnecessary stress and heat stroke. 10. Carry your rabbit by tucking its head under your arm while supporting its body between your side and your same arm. The rabbit’s eyes should be covered by your elbow. Support the hindquarters with your free hand. Show Preparation Grooming 1. Start grooming your rabbit at least six weeks before the show. 2. Groom in the cool part of the day. 3. Use a table covered with a rug or piece of carpet as a grooming stand. 4. Moisten your hands and rub them through the rabbit’s fur (from head to tail) until it is damp. 5.Once the fur is damp, stroke the rabbit from head to tail several times to remove dead fur. 6. Do not rub the fur backwards (from tail to head) as that can break the guard hairs. 7. Repeat steps 4 through 6 for several days. 8. Then continue to groom your rabbit daily by stroking the fur from head to tail without dampening the fur. This makes the fur shiny and tight. 9. Daily grooming improves the appearance of your rabbit, and tames it, making it easier to handle. Showmanship Showmanship is a combination of: (1) your appearance; (2) knowledge about rabbits; (3) handling and showing your rabbit, including knowing its faults according to the ARBA breed standard; and (4)sportsmanship and show ring ethics. http://florida4h.org/projects/rabbits/ShowRabbits/Activity9_Preparing.html Rabbit Training http://www.justrabbits.com/rabbit-training.html Training Your Rabbit: Reality 101 by Dana Krempels, Ph.D. http://www.bio.miami.edu/hare/training.html Word of the Week: Morning Plant of the Week: Chickweed © Copyrighted
Acts 20 Guided by God to serve… I know what people think. They think that I work alone. That I enter a town like a lone superhero and boom – people are instantly wowed with my good news of salvation. That I am so intelligent, speaking things which are difficult to comprehend and without emotion. But you know what. Those people who think like that, are wrong. I don’t work alone. I am always surrounded by a great team of people. Check out these folk with me on this occasion, or will be soon – Luke, Sopater; Aristarchus and Secundus; Gaius; my dear son, Timothy; and Tychicus and Trophimus. A community of God’s people from different places working with me. It is for God’s sake that I work and am His. It is my conviction that the good news of salvation can be had by all, through Jesus Christ’s death and resurrection from the dead. As for being without emotion, clearly, they have never met me and therefore misunderstand me. Emotions are part of the human experience and that is what I am, a mere human being used by the God I proclaim, worship and serve. I once was very different though. I was on a mission – a mission from God – or so I thought. A mission to defend God’s truth. It was my job to be God’s defender and root out the miscreants known as ‘The Way.’ Those people claiming that Jesus, Yeshua ben Joseph, had risen from the dead after being crucified. No way could God have a Son. That was blasphemy! Rubbish it was! It was! How could the Saviour of my people, the Jews, the Messiah, die on a cross – a Gentile cross at that - and be cursed by God? Patently absurd! Bald-faced and blatant blasphemy! No! No! No! It was my duty as a man zealous for the Law, to eradicate all those who were followers of this man, Jesus. Those heretics. Then… I still remember it as if it was yesterday. I was on the road to Damascus, embarking on my mission and boom! Suddenly a voice from heaven cried out “Saul! Saul! Why are you persecuting me?” I asked who it was that was speaking and the voice spoke again “I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting.” God had stopped me, arrested me (Philippians 3:12), shone his light upon me (2 Corinthians 4:6), and the mercy of God overflowed upon me (1 Timothy 1:14) and within me. Jesus is alive! WOW! It is true! Jesus is alive! Did you hear me? Jesus is alive! Jesus, the Messiah did die on a cross. But he came back to life, rising from the dead three days later just as He repeatedly said He would. Afterwards, he made many public appearances before He ascended back to God the Father. Then He appeared to me! Me! Saul of Tarsus! WOW! That was about 20 years ago now. Now I am on a different mission. A mission given undeniably to me, by God – a mission which is to tell the world, by all possible means, this good news of Jesus the Christ. I, now named Paul, am no longer an enemy of Jesus, but now His friend. A friend of God! God calls me, friend - converted from a persecutor to being one of His faithful followers. This conversion was a total transformation by God upon me. My attitudes, character & relationship with God, have all been transformed and for His glory alone. My God loves me! Me! Unbelievable, isn’t it? My conversion is real, God continuing to work in me, upon me and through me. So here we are today! Having just left that majestic city of Ephesus, where I spent the best part of the last 3 years. A city and people I love dearly – loved often with tears and joy. Recently as a result of my preaching and sharing the Good News of Jesus, some folk took exception and caused a riot. So, onwards to Jerusalem and the believers there. I have a gift for them. A wonderfully sacrificial gift from the Gentile churches, to the Church there in Jerusalem. It is a practical way of looking after the welfare of the Church of fellow believers there in the magnificent city of Jerusalem. The churches in Macedonia and Achaia, are wanting to make a practical contribution towards the Christians in Jerusalem . Headlong we go, guided by God and serving Him. I will catch up with Timothy and Erastus whom I have sent ahead of me! Firstly though, let’s look at the map so that you can see where I am and where we are going tonight. v1-2 – first we go north from Ephesus to Macedonia. I may just stay in Corinth for the winter. v3 – Then I will return through Macedonia instead of sailing to Syria v7-12 - Troas - Eutychus is raised from the dead by God v13 - By foot to Assos v14 - sailed to Mitylene v15 - sailed to Kos, Samos and Miletus v17 - Ephesus elders came to Miletus And still on our way to Jerusalem! We will get there, even if not directly! Click or Tap here to listen to or save this as an audio mp3 file ----more---- 1. Overview With that introduction, we come to tonight’s passage of Acts 20. We may just finish by midnight and hopefully nobody is sitting on any window sills to fall asleep and fall. The chapter, as you can see, breaks down into 3 sections. v1-6 - Paul in Macedonia and Greece v7-12 - Paul in Troas v13-39 - In this section, Paul says goodbye to the Ephesian leaders. We have the only sermon in the book of Acts, which is given by Paul to other Christians. All others are preached to those who were not Christian. As ever, there is a lot in this chapter for us. In preparation, as I read the passage, listened to it being read repeatedly and meditated on this chapter, two words came over and over to my mind. Two words which are important for the church today, just as they have been down through history. 2. Guidance How was Paul guided by God to fulfil God’s purposes and will? I know some people probably think that Paul was guided by God putting visible arrows in the sky, pointing Paul and his team in the right direction! Maybe you are one of those tonight, and if you are, then I am sorry to disappoint you by saying that is not how God guided Paul. As far as we know anyway! Another time, the Holy Spirit stopped Paul and his team from entering a place – twice. Acts 16:6-7 tells us this. How the Spirit stopped them, we don’t know, but soon afterwards, we find out why He did. God spoke to Paul in a vision. A vision whereby a man in Macedonia implored Paul to visit. So, Paul went and preached the Gospel there! But that was probably quite a rare event. So how was Paul primarily guided by God? I would like to suggest that in the main, Paul just used his brain. He set out where he wanted to go, and proceeded to go there. If he got stopped, he went somewhere else, just as we have seen here in this passage and in previous weeks here. We have that intriguing phrase in v22 “compelled by the Spirit” or as the New Living Translation puts it “bound by the Spirit”. What are we to make of that phrase? Is that in direct contrast to Paul using his mind to work things out, as some people today would suggest? By no means, no. Paul knew, as he has said, that he was to be in Jerusalem. He was obligated by his convictions. The Spirit was binding Paul to his inner conviction that Jerusalem was where he was to go. He also had that gift from the Gentile churches to give to the Jerusalem church. That thought also played on his conscience. He had undertaken the task and was honour bound to fulfil it. Therefore, Paul was bound by the Spirit to Jerusalem – bound by the Spirit through conviction and conscience. His overarching conviction was that people must turn to God in repentance and have faith in our Lord Jesus. It was his aim to preach that message everywhere he went. His conviction fed his aim in v24 “to finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me – the task of testifying to the good news of God’s grace. Paul was also guided by circumstances (v3). Once he had found out that the Jews had made a plot against him, Paul changed his plan and went back through Macedonia. It would have been easy for a boatload of Jewish opponents going as pilgrims to Jerusalem to get hold of Paul and dump his body overboard into the sea. Or with Eutychus in verse 10. When it occurred, do you think Paul had an internal debate with himself: “Hmmm. Is God guiding me to keep speaking now or is He wanting me to go help that lad?” Of course not! Paul saw the need, used his brain, went to the lad, prayed, held him and the lad was resuscitated. God also would have guided Paul through prayer into His purposes and direction. Perhaps that is why Paul went alone on his journey by land to Assos– to spend time with God alone and seek His face. So, Paul had set his face towards Jerusalem. Another way Paul used his mind in being guided by God, was by relating his future to his past. In this sermon, Paul says “You know” (in relation to his past in verses 18, 20 & 34) and “I know” (in relation to his future, in verses 23, 25 & 29). Paul had learnt the lessons of his past to help him in his future. All he knew that lay ahead, as he preached the Gospel, was that suffering and persecution for the sake of Jesus Christ was to be his. Of course, these are only some of the ways. He certainly also sought and used the counsel of others. How are we guided? 2a. Guidance So what can we learn from this, for us to put into practise in our life? We saw that Paul was guided by a vision, his brain, his convictions, his conscience, his circumstances, the past, prayer and wise counsel. Not a mystical arrow in the sky in sight! Perhaps the most common question we get asked is “How can I know God’s guidance for me – to know his purposes and will for me?” Controlled by the Holy Spirit So firstly, the Christian Disciple is guided by being controlled by the Holy Spirit. We see this clearly in evidence in the life of Paul. Another way to say this is by submitting to the God the Holy Spirit’s leading. Fundamental to being guided by the Spirit for the Christian is to be filled with the Spirit, or another way of saying it, is to be controlled by the Spirit. When the Spirit is quenched (1 Thessalonians 5:19) or grieved (Ephesians 4:30), then the Holy Spirit no longer has control of us. To allow the Holy Spirit control, we need to resubmit ourselves to God. Part of being controlled by the Spirit is to enable Him to convict us of sin (Psalm 139:23-24), regularly confessing our sin (1 John 1:9) and accepting the assurance of being forgiven. Sins such as quenching or grieving the Holy Spirit. We are to go on devoting ourselves to being a living sacrifice for God (Romans 12:1-2) and seeking the Holy Spirit’s divine power and wisdom in order to serve Jesus Christ (Galatians 5:16; Ephesians 3:16). We show our devotion to God by yielding all things to Him, including our gifts and our plans. In yielding to the Holy Spirit, the body (1 Corinthians 6:20) and mind (Romans 12:1-2) are given to Him sacrificially for the glory of Jesus Christ. Both the body and the mind are yielded, because the body activates what is conceived in the mind (Proverbs 25:19). We are called to a total dedication of placing all thoughts, plans and actions into God’s hands and the seeking of His divine wisdom. We set out where we want to go and let God steer, accelerate or brake. Sometimes all three at once. It’s like driving a car. No point just sitting in the car hoping to get somewhere if you aren’t willing to turn it on and actually drive! So we start out and let God do the steering, accelerating and braking. Just as Paul has done here. Convictions and Conscience We saw tonight how God the Spirit leads through convictions and conscience. How are we doing at standing firm in our convictions and allowing God to refine them? How are we doing at allowing God to refine our conscience – pricking and poking it? Counsel and Circumstances In addition to submitting to the Holy Spirit, other people and circumstances are great helps in regard to guidance. We saw that earlier tonight with Paul. Seeking the advice of others in trying to understand God’s guidance, plays an important role in deciding God’s will in our life. The Ephesian Elders were certainly guided by God through the ministry of Paul. When seeking the advice of others bear in mind that the person should be a reliable, godly and faithful servant of God. How often have we not asked for advice because we don’t want to humble ourselves and actually ask for help and advice? Or am I alone in being like that? In the end, each of us as individuals is responsible for our own actions and for knowing God’s guidance for themselves. Then, again as we saw earlier, we have circumstances, which are a great learning tool. Circumstances surround us 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Through circumstances, God often discloses his perfect will and guidance. You can see examples of this in the lives of Abraham (Genesis 22); Moses (Exodus 2) and again, Paul (Acts 23). Lessons from the past Are we learning the lessons of our past, both individually as well as those passed down through Church history, to help us in our future – both individually and as a body? That is one reason we should be studying what has gone on before, in order to be ready for what is to come. 3. Service What did Paul do with that guidance? He served – served God and served others! Showed his love of God by loving others and serving both. That is our second word - service. 3a. Paul’s Service - How did he serve We see here, just in this passage, as we do elsewhere, Paul served where ever he was – in public spaces as well as in private spaces, such as homes. We see that Paul served God and showed that, by serving others. Serving others both in private and in public. He served groups of people, such as the leaders of the Ephesian church. As well as individuals, such as Eutychus. Paul overcome opposition while on his acts of service. Opposition as we saw last week in Acts 19. We see in v23 that Paul has been warned what is to come – persecution and suffering for the sake of the Gospel, for the sake of God. What can we learn of Paul’s use of words and of his knowledge in his acts of service to God and others. We see that with words Paul challenged, comforted, encouraged, evangelized, healed, prayed, preached, taught, warned and worshipped – all with words. We also see that he worked manually with his hands, probably as a tentmaker. We see a couple of times where Paul says that he served with tears in his eyes, verses 19 & 31. That is not something we usually associate with him, is it? In all these ways of serving God, Paul showed that service of God, by serving others and being a consistent example to others – is a good witness for God to others. Paul knew, that he knew, that he knew, he was called by God to be a witness to the Gentiles of a loving God of mercy and grace. Let’s see just in this passage how Paul did that. v2 encouraged. v7 worshipped by sharing in the Lord’s Supper and s preached v10 Prayed v19 I have done the Lord’s work humbly and with many tears. I have endured the trials that came to me from the plots of the Jews. v20-21 I never shrank back from telling you what you needed to hear, either publicly or in your homes. I have had one message for Jews and Greeks alike—the necessity of repenting from sin and turning to God, and of having faith in our Lord Jesus. v24 But my life is worth nothing to me unless I use it for finishing the work assigned me by the Lord Jesus—the work of telling others the Good News about the wonderful grace of God. v25 preached the Kingdom v27 I didn’t shrink from declaring all that God wants you to know v31 my constant watch and care over you night and day, and my many tears for you. v34 You know that these hands of mine have worked to supply my own needs and the needs of those who were with me. v35 And I have been a constant example of how you can help those in need Not only do we see Paul encouraging others to go serve but we see other people serve as well, such as when they engaged in worship and the Lord’s supper. We also saw that God Himself serves by his grace and mercy. We know that the Son, Jesus Christ, was the greatest servant of all. One way, the Ephesian elders were to serve, amongst others. was by protecting their flock. To be on their guard and have their wits about them. They were to be on their guard for when wolves would enter amongst them to try and steal the sheep. Wolves as animals, hunt in packs and are predators. Collectively they use guile, intelligence, cunning and speed, panicking their prey and usually concentrating on the weaker prey. Their prey, as a collective defence, have a great sense of smell, good hearing, agility, speed, or sharp hooves. What Paul means as wolves, are those people being ear-tickling false teachers trying to lure people away from the true gospel of Jesus Christ. Wolves that knew nothing about the real gospel of Jesus Christ and repentance and are only in it for what they could get out of it. Ergo, the elders are to use their senses, their wisdom and knowledge to sense out these wolves. It wasn’t long after this, that we see that it did occur, just as Paul said it would. 3a. Service Once again, what can we take away with us tonight, so that we can go from here to live lives worthy of Jesus Christ? Just as Paul was gifted, so were the Ephesian elders. Eutychus obviously had the gift of falling asleep! Who has Spiritual Gifts? All of us here tonight have what we call spiritual Gifts. We know from other parts of the Bible, that God, through His infinite wisdom, mercy and grace bestows these gifts that belong to Him, upon His servants, you and I. These gifts are to be used primarily to bring glory to God! (1 Peter 4:11). That was Paul’s motive, as we saw earlier. They are opportunities for you and I to serve other people. Some gifts like teaching, helping or leadership quite possibly are enhancements of natural abilities. Whilst others like faith, healing and miracles are from the Holy Spirit’s empowerment alone. The Purpose of Spiritual Gifts The reason that the Holy Spirit imparts spiritual gifts to us Christians, so that the body of Christ is built up (Ephesians 4:12), for the common good of the church (1 Corinthians 12:7, 14:12) and “so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ.” (1 Peter 4:12). That was certainly evident in the life of Paul, even in our brief glimpse of him tonight. As all Christian people have gifts, we have a responsibility to discover and develop them (1 Timothy 4:14)! We are also, to help others discover and develop their gifting. Again, just as Paul did earlier. When was the last time that you and I did that? We are to discover, discern, develop and put into effect our spiritual gifts, so that God can be glorified and His church built up! Have you discovered your gifts of service yet? We are to employ our gifts & talents faithfully by asking God to continue their development, strengthening and opportunities to use them! We are to seek gifts that build up others, commands Paul (1 Corinthians 14:1-12). We are to ask God faithfully for gifts that give opportunity for service to God and others! Each of us here is creative in some way! How creative are you in your service of God and of others? Do not neglect or ignore your gifts and talents – the Church needs you. Church local and church universal. If you need help, ask somebody! How are you serving God – in this church and outside of church, in the workplace and at home? Where ever we go, work, rest or play – online or offline, we are called to be ambassadors for Jesus Christ and serving Him. Serving Him in our office, our home and where ever we go. How are we doing at that? 3 quick questions to ask ourselves Q1. Am I willing to do whatever God commands me to do? Q2. Am I willing to be humble enough to ask other people’s advice? Q3. Am I willing to sacrifice my desires so that God’s Will is achieved and His glory acclaimed? How are we doing at looking out for wolves amongst us as warned by Paul? The church we used to belong to in London, would often hae people from the nearby Jehovah Witnesses or the Church of Scientology sneak in to visit the congregation after the services, to see if they could steal people away to join their cult. Usually by inviting their prey to do some form of “bible study.” But as Paul said, not only wolves from outside, also wolves from amongst us. I am sure it has happened here before. Let’s all be on our guard. Not primarily from what is taught up front, though do keep your minds active to hear what is being said. But more what happens after the service, particularly by others, and away from here during the week. Possibly evern from within the home groups. Let’s all be on our guard – for ourselves and for those that we know. Let’s use our own knowledge of Scripture, our common sense and our senses to sense out the wolves. Words Let’s have a look now to our words – our use of words. How are you and I doing in our use of words? Words are our central means of communication and miscommunication. Are the words you and I use, filled with grace, always of truth, healing, uplifting, encouraging and building up others! Words of comfort and of challenge – as appropriate. Serving others with your words. Sure, there are times when words are to be used for rebuking in love, but always used under the control of the Holy Spirit. The words we speak reflect our inner attitudes, our inner thoughts and our inner being. The words you speak and communicate reflect who you are. Just as mind do. If the words we communicate are derogatory, inflaming and cursory then that reflects your inner thoughts and attitudes. Your words and all your communication have the power to bring life, healing and encouragement but also on the contrary, have the power to bring corruption, degradation and death. Are we sometimes embarking on gossip, under the pretence of “sharing”? “You know, ooo listen, did you hear about such and such? “No! Really? WOW!” Let God Himself help us to use our words for the supreme glory of Jesus Christ! That is one of the ways in which you and I will truly be seen to be one of His disciples! Our words have power – we are to use them wisely. As for silence. Sometimes silence is golden. Proverbs 17:28 says “Even a fool is thought wise if he keeps silent, and discerning if he holds his tongue.” But at other times it too is misused. We stay silent when we should say something particularly encouraging and building up. We all at times ignore people in need of care, but use our silence against them. Am I alone in doing this? Conclusion As we go now, into the new week, let’s go with the confidence that God is guiding us when we ask him too, that we are to serve him where ever we go – work, home and play. As C.S. Lewis once said, “It is not your business to succeed, but to do right. When you have done so the rest lies with God.” Too many Christians are afraid to do something different, in case it fails or because they think it somehow goes against God. If it is against God, He will soon let you know! We are to use words to glorify God – words that comfort, challenge gently, heal and to communicate the Gospel to other people, those outside God’s Church. Our confidence, like Pauls, is to be in God and His words of grace. The words we use can heal people – heal their hurts. Our words of encouragement, can be a boost to others and ourselves, and glorifying to God. I know what it is like to be hurt by the words of others – people telling lies about me and gossiping – from the realms of fantasy. Even recently. But I also know beyond doubt that words can be a healing balm. Also recently. Daily I have to repent to God, of my misuse and abuse of words. I have to ask forgiveness of somebody I hurt with my words or my silence. Lastly, our knowledge. Let’s go on growing in knowledge – particularly knowledge of God, so we can pass that knowledge on. Bernard of Clairveaux in the 12th century once said: “There are those who seek knowledge for the sake of knowledge; that is Curiosity. There are those who seek knowledge to be known by others; that is Vanity. There are those who seek knowledge in order to serve; that is Love.” I am convinced that is why Paul sought knowledge and to distribute what he knew – to serve God and others with love. Who will you share your knowledge of Jesus Christ with this week? How will you use your knowledge this week to be a help or encouragement of somebody else? Who will you protect from the wolves this week with your sensitivity, your sense and your knowledge of God? Let’s go from here knowing we are being guided by God and to serve His purposes and will. With v24 in mind, determined, where ever we go – work, home or play “to go on to finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given us – the task of testifying to the good news of God’s grace.” We are not all called explicitly to be evangelists but we are called to do the work of an evangelist. We are not all called to be pastors and elders, that is shepherds of God’s people, but each of us can take care of others in our own inimitable way. May God continue to guide us as we serve him in word and deed. May God be glorified in each of our lives every day as effective witnesses for Him, in this town, our workplaces, this country and this world. Click or Tap here to listen to or save this as an audio mp3 file You can now purchase our Partakers books! Please do click or tap here to visit our Amazon site! Click or tap on the appropriate link below to subscribe, share or download our iPhone App!
Today, we have a topic that is extremely important, complex, and interesting for agriculture...immigration law. My guest is Sarah Thomas, an attorney at the New Mexico law firm of Noble & Vrapi, where she practices business immigration law. Sarah works with employers, including dairies in New Mexico, on business immigration issues. This episode is full of practical information and best practice suggestions for employers to consider. Form I-9 We kick things off talking about the importance of employers complying with Form I-9 requirements. Critically, having all employees complete Form I-9 is required for all employers, whether or not they hire foreign nationals, to have forms on file for all employees for the required time limits (the longer of 3 years after hire, or 1 year after the employee ceases employment). Employers should ensure they use the most current Form I-9 (available here). With respect to filling out the Form I-9, Sarah explains that employers should be careful to follow the rules listed on the Form I-9 when verifying required documents. There are three lists of documents. An employee must present either one List A document or one document each from List B or List C. The employer may not require a certain document within these lists. The employer must see the original document, no copies are allowed, in the presence of the employee. The employer should view the documents to ensure they reasonably appear to relate to the employee and appear reasonably to be valid. Sarah recommends that her clients not make copies of the documents presented by employees for their files. An employer should never backdate or alter Form I-9s. Finally, Sarah offers tips for employers store I-9 forms together in one file, rather than in an individual file for each employee. She also recommends that employers destroy I-9 forms once the required retention period passes. Additionally, she cautions employers to be careful in classifying persons as either employees (I-9 required) or independent contractors (not required) and be sure their classifications are accurate. What if ICE shows up at my farm? First and foremost, Sarah advises that businesses need to think ahead and have a plan in place in case this does occur. Typically, if an audit is going to happen, there will be an auditor from the Department of Homeland Security and either an ICE officer or a federal marshal. A business should train employees, including receptionists and front desk staff, not to chat with or give information to the auditor or officers. Instead, there should be one person designated to speak with the officers and ensure that everyone in the business knows who that person is. If agents arrive, employees should be friendly, but should not answer any questions and immediately inform the assigned representative that agents are at the farm. Government agents are only allowed to go into public areas, areas included in a signed warrant, or in areas for which they have been given consent to enter. This brings up three important points. First, Sarah advises employers never to consent to allow agents to go into private areas without a warrant and, importantly, employees should be told not to give consent as well. Second, having clear delineation between spaces that are public and private is important. Without a warrant, agents may only go into public areas. So, if a barn was labeled "employees only" then the agents may not enter those private areas. Third, if the agents have a warrant, it is important for the employer to view the warrant. A valid warrant will be signed by a judge. Without a judge's signature, the document is not a valid warrant. Employers may want to have an attorney view the warrant to confirm it is valid. Finally, employers and employees should be aware of their rights, including the right to remain silent, in the event they are questioned by agents. Additionally, employees should never sign any documents if they do not understand the contents or taking the opportunity to talk with an attorney. Sarah provided a document helping folks understand their rights (see below). Conclusion As always, I asked Sarah my two final questions. She said that a law she wishes could be changed is that she wishes the US provided universal healthcare for citizens. For her restaurant recommendation, she suggests we try New Mexican food at El Bruno's, with locations in Cuba, NM and Albuquerque, NM. Contact info for Sarah Thomas (Email) sarah@noblelawfirm.com (Website) http://www.noblelawfirm.com/ Links to topics mentioned on the show - Noble & Vrapi law firm - I-9 Central (current Form I-9, instructions, and handbook for employers) - Farm Employers and Form I-9 Compliance - US Department of Justice Immigrant and Employee Rights Section (formerly Office of Special Council) has an anonymous employer hotline for questions: 1-800-255-8155. - Know Your Rights Handout (in English and Spanish)
Hi, and thanks for popping in to listen to this weeks' Episode, which promises to be an interesting one for anyone who owns a car (so that represents the vast majority of us!). If you are new here please do check out this page, which will tell you a little about why this project exists and what it's aiming to do for you. Episode 21 is here: ################################# While some would argue that the cost of running a car hardly qualifies as a Financial Planning topic, I would beg to differ. Seeing as many of us possess one for the duration of our adult lives our choice of car represents a significant life long investment. What I am hoping to uncover is exactly how much they cost and what if any differences there are in buying a 'newish' car versus an older car! Some of you at this point will hit the red 'x' in the top right hand corner, you like your cars, you don't care what they cost you, provided you can afford to have a 'nice' car you will continue to do so irrespective of the financial costs. I respect that, hit the red 'x', but might do you no harm to see what it is actually costing! In the interest of being up front I will state that even before we look at the figures I have always had a strong bias towards owning older cars (6-10 years old) where the largest depreciation costs have been absorbed by a previous owner, however I am always open to correction, so lets see which option is the more informed from a financial perspective! Assumptions: For the purpose of this exercise I based my findings on 2 family sized cars. The 'newish' car is a 2013 Volkswagen Passat 1.6 Diesel from a dealer, with 62k miles on the clock costing €20,450- listed on Carzone.ie at time of the research. The 'old' car for the purposes of this exercise is a 2007 Ford Mondeo, 1.8 Diesel, 90k miles on the clock costing €4,700 from a dealer, again it's listed on Carzone.ie at time of research. Our exercise will assume we hold the car for 3 years, before changing it again for another car. Mileage assumed at 13,000 miles per annum. The Cost of Owning a 'Newish' Car for 3 years: Depreciation: €12,450 - Buy it for €20,450. Based on the research when you go to sell a car of this type in 3 years, assuming average mileage and it being well maintained, you will get approximately €8,000. Irrespective of selling it privately or trading it in this is the approximate value achieved (even VW which historically hold value reasonably well). Fuel Cost: €4,029 - This modern car will give approximately 55 miles per gallon on average. www.honestjohn.co.uk is a great website for honest mileage numbers. Using a diesel price of €1.25 per litre, and traveling 13,000 miles per annum, that's the cost over the 3 years! Motor Tax: €570 - As a post-2008 car, with relatively low emissions of 109g/km motor tax will set ou back €190 per annum Maintenance: €1,200 - This assumes carrying out 1 annual service and changing 2 tyres per annum, with no other major outlay on this relatively young car Insurance: €1,800 - This one is a big variable dependent on the driver and his/her status and years of no claims bonus etc, however the same figure will be used on both examples Total Cost = €20,049 The cost of having this car for the 3 years is over €20,000. With good fuel economy and low tax it still amounts to a fairly sizeable amount of cash! If we break that down annually it is €6,683. Per month that is €557. If you are on the higher tax bracket you need to earn €1,100 Gross Salary in order to pay for your car..........................If you earn €50,000 Gross, that is 1 week's work per month to pay for your car! Seems hefty, but lets now compare it to the alternative, a cheaper, less flashy, less efficient and perhaps less reliable motor! Cost of owning an 'old' car: Depreciation: €2,220 - Buy it for €4,700. Based on the research when you go to sell a car of this type in 3 years, assuming average mileage and it being well maintained, you will get approximately €2,500. Irrespective of selling it privately or trading it in this is the approximate value achieved. Fuel Cost: €5,039 - This less modern car will give approximately 44 miles per gallon on average. Using the same diesel price of €1.25 per litre, and travelling 13,000 miles per annum, thats the cost over the 3 years for this car. Motor Tax: €2019 - As a pre-2008 car, with a 1.8 litre engine you are in for a juicy €673 per year road tax, no avoiding it! Maintenance: €2,400 - This assumes carrying out 1 annual service and changing 2 tyres per annum. In this instance we have included €300 per annum for ad-hoc repairs. While this could be quick a lot more or less on a car of this age and mileage this average is an industry accepted figure. Insurance: €1,800 - This one is a big variable dependent on the driver and his/her status and years of no claims bonus etc, however the same figure will be used on both examples Total Cost = €13,478 So there you go, the estimated cost of 3 years of motoring in such a car will cost you just south of €13,500, which works out at €4,492 per year and therefore €375 per month. Before tax you are looking at earning €750 Gross Salary to put this car under your back-side. The single biggest cost differentiation between the two options is depreciation, yet this is the one factor which many many of us do not give due consideration to. We fail to include that in the cost of ownership, however it is a very real part of the cost, and in some circumstances is the single biggest aspect to the overall cost. Fact. Many of us millennials see the shiny new shapes, we see what our peers are driving, we see the latest adverts, we see the 171's on the road and we start to feel that our 'old' car is giving a poor representation of ourselves and portrays a lack of success. I'm being somewhat melodramatic here obvously but there are elements of these emotions behind our decisions in buying 'newish' cars. I often look to the example set by Mr. Warren Buffet (3rd wealthiest man on the planet). He drives a regular joe-soap car, and seems pretty happy with it!! Conclusion: As always I believe you are more than capable of drawing your own conclusions from the above. As with many of our financial decisions there is more often than not an emotive drive determining the outcome. One could choose to drive an older car, and to use the 'savings' to save for the future, enjoy an extra holiday or some other experience. Likewise one may prefer to be seen driving a 'newish' car, they may like the reliability and feeling they get from a more modern car, and are happy to sacrifice the 'savings' in favour of these aspects. Likewise they may not realise the costs of owning a car, until now! Ultimately the choice is yours of course, but at least now you have a greater sense as to what your car is costing you, and indeed if you have 2 cars in your household what they are costing you. If you are trying to budget and manage or indeed reduce your cash outflows the ownership of cars can be one of the single biggest factors in doing so. I have included a sample calculator which I created for you to run your own numbers here, have fun! Thanks for reading, sharing and spreading the love! Paddy Delaney (QFA, RPA, Coach) Links: MPG Information for use in above calculator: http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/realmpg/
Hi again dear listener! If you are new here, welcome! This is a great place to begin the journey if you are a new visitor. This is the 2nd in our 'financial foundations' series, and will further explain one of the many protection options available to us all in today's market. For the first in this series we looked at the ins and outs of specified illness cover. Click here to listen. Income Protection, also known in some quarters as Income Continuance, Income Insurance, Income Cover & Permanent Heath Insurance. Confused yet!!? I'm gonna stick with the label of Income Protection on this one, purely because that is what it is designed to do, protect your income if yours stops! Before we get into the basics of this potential financial foundation lets picture the following. (Disclaimer: this might seem like an old insurance sales technique but bear with me!!). Imagine for a second that you had a printer in the corner of your bedroom, every morning as you wake up you hear this printer printing out the equivalent of a day's wages for you. Because there is no such thing as work in this dream-land you survive on your printer's ability to print this money for you every morning. Having said that, like all printers on this planet yours is prone to breaking down occasionally, indeed it is also susceptible to breaking down permanently. If it does your income will stop, cease, finish. Bearing in mind it is your sole form of income would you insure this printer against such an incident, bearing in mind it is your sole form of income? If you woke up one morning and it was all flashing red lights would you feel it prudent to have a back-up plan to help pay the bills? On the face of it it probably seems like pure gambling to not do so, yet the fact is that a huge percentage of us do not have such a plan in place. If we go back to the analogy of building a home on solid foundations, it would seem that doing so without a core foundation would be a risky approach. So why don't people have this protection in place? Personally I believe there are a few core reasons for that; cost, awareness and understanding of what it actually is! So here goes............. What is it? As already mentioned above, it is a type of protection which should pay you an income if you are medically unable to work for a minimum period of time due to an accident, illness or injury. As with the majority of income sources it is taxable. (You will note that this is quite different to Specified Illness Cover which pays you a lump sum (one-off) upon diagnosis of a certain type of illness, and not related to your ability to continue to work or not). So its Sick Pay, right? No! Typically 'sick pay' from an employer is paid for a set period of time, for example 2, 6, 12 months, after which time the benefit stops and you are on your own. Income Protection however is designed to continue to provide the income benefit until either a) you are deemed medically able to return to work or b) your protection plan reaches the end of its term, you can select usually between 55 and 65 years of age, at which point the benefit stops. What about the State Disability Benefit? Importantly receiving Income Protection, while it is a taxable income, does not immediately impact on your ability to receive your entitlement to State Benefits. The State 'Illness Benefit' is paid for a maximum of: a) 2 years if you have at least 260 (5years) weeks reckonable social insurance contributions paid since you first started work b) 1 year if you have between 104 and 259 weeks reckonable social insurance contributions* paid since you first started work How much Income do I get from an Income Protection Plan? Depends on how much your printer prints each morning! You can protect up to a max of 75% of your Gross Income with one of these plans. When/If you do claim as a result of being unable to work you make your claim, have it supported by medical evidence of you being unable to work, and the insurance company essentially become your employer, they deduct the tax payable and you get the Net Income paid into your bank account. Example: You are 34 years of age, an Accountant, non-smoker. Your income is €50k. You put in place an Income Protection plan which will cover 75% of your income (€38k per annum benefit). You are married and 1 child. Your spouse is working also. If you were to become ill/injured/sick for a minimum of 1 week you could apply for State Disability Benefit, if successful it would provide in the region of €940 per month. (11k per annum). How Much Does it Cost? The above plan would cost in the region of €130 per month to put in place. Do note however that the Revenue recognise the importance of having this in place and have generous tax relief available on the cost of putting it in place, so if our Accountant above was on the 40% tax rate his actual cost would be around the €70 per month mark...........not bad for a potential monthly benefit of €3,167 if in a claim, and a claim which could last from now until he/she gets to 60 years of age! Worth noting that the more physically perilous or manual your occupation the more expensive the cover would be for you. Who Can Have It? A lot of folks might want it but not everyone can get it! Typically anyone in an occupation which involved mostly driving or very heavy manual labour can have difficulty in getting an application through what is often very rigorous underwriting/assessment. But once you have it you have it! If you are not sure if your occupation would qualify you can easily check this by 'googling' income protection quotes, and they all ask you your occupation, before either quoting you or saying 'thanks but no thanks'! Likewise, if you have previous medical history or medical/physical illnesses or conditions it may impact on you getting the cover at 'standard rates', which simply means at the price you were quoted for, and covering you for all eventualities. Are There Any Down-Sides? Like everything, it is important to know what you are covered for and what you are not covered for with these types of things. For example, you would likely not be covered if you were out of work due to an illness/injury suffered as a result of something you did while under the influence of alcohol, so no climbing trees or lamp-posts after a trip to the 'local'! Another thing to watch out for, is if you intend traveling for a period of time, as in moving to another country. Most plans will only pay you for a short period of time if you are living abroad at the time of claim, so it's one to be aware of if this might apply to you. As always, read the details, be informed of all the facts. You need to be medically certified as unable to work, if this is not the case then a company would likely refuse your application. The company covering you are charging you a price which will ensure they make a profit, pay the advisor/agent, and also ensures that other people who have the cover will get paid if they have a valid claim, so it is in everyone's interest to be upfront and honest about what is and what is not covered, and when it would or would not be paid. Conclusion? As always I will leave it to you to form your own conclusions on this. If your income stopping would have a massive impact on your financial, physical or mental well-being then it could be a worthwhile foundation for you. If you feel the State Benefit would not be sufficient, and you have few other crutches to support you should you be out of work for a considerable period of time, then it could be worth considering, big-time! Please use this information in the manner it is intended, inform yourself and supporting you in creating a better financial future for yourself. Thanks so much for reading, sharing and spreading the word. Paddy Delaney (QFA, RPA & Now Qualified Coach too- yay!!)
Background: Leber's hereditary optic neuropathy (LHON) is a mitochondrial disease that typically causes bilateral blindness in young men. Here we describe the clinical and molecular characteristics of 20 patients with disease onset after the age of 50 years (late onset-LHON). Methods: From a cohort of 251 affected and 277 unaffected LHON carriers, we identified 20 patients with onset of visual loss after the age of 50 years. Using structured questionnaires, data including basic demographic details, age of onset, progression of visual loss and severity as well as exposure to possible environmental triggers including alcohol, smoking and illicit drugs were retrospectively collected. Groups were compared using the Mann-Whitney-U-Test for two independent groups of sampled data. Results: The proportion of late onset-LHON in our cohort was 8% (20 patients, 15 males, 5 females). The mtDNA mutations m. 11778G > A and m. 3460G > A were found in 16 and 4 patients, respectively. Among 89 asymptomatic carriers above the age of 50 years (28 males, 61 females), the mtDNA mutations m. 11778G > A, m. 3460G > A and m. 14484 T > C were found in 60, 12 and 17 carriers, respectively. Late onset-LHON patients had significantly higher mean cumulative tobacco and alcohol consumption compared with unaffected carriers. However, there was no significant difference between late onset-and typical LHON patients with regard to daily tobacco and weekly alcohol consumption before disease onset. Conclusion: As already shown for typical LHON, alcohol consumption and smoking are important trigger factors also for the late manifestation. LHON should be considered in the differential diagnosis of subacute blindness even in older patients.
Background: There is an on-going debate about whether to perform surgery on early stage localised prostate cancer and risk the common long term side effects such as urinary incontinence and erectile dysfunction. Alternatively these patients could be closely monitored and treated only in case of disease progression (active surveillance). The aim of this paper is to develop a decision-analytic model comparing the cost-utility of active surveillance (AS) and radical prostatectomy (PE) for a cohort of 65 year old men with newly diagnosed low risk prostate cancer. Methods: A Markov model comparing PE and AS over a lifetime horizon was programmed in TreeAge from a German societal perspective. Comparative disease specific mortality was obtained from the Scandinavian Prostate Cancer Group trial. Direct costs were identified via national treatment guidelines and expert interviews covering in-patient, out-patient, medication, aids and remedies as well as out of pocket payments. Utility values were used as factor weights for age specific quality of life values of the German population. Uncertainty was assessed deterministically and probabilistically. Results: With quality adjustment, AS was the dominant strategy compared with initial treatment. In the base case, it was associated with an additional 0.04 quality adjusted life years (7.60 QALYs vs. 7.56 QALYs) and a cost reduction of (sic)6,883 per patient (2011 prices). Considering only life-years gained, PE was more effective with an incremental cost-effectiveness ratio of (sic)96,420/life year gained. Sensitivity analysis showed that the probability of developing metastases under AS and utility weights under AS are a major sources of uncertainty. A Monte Carlo simulation revealed that AS was more likely to be cost-effective even under very high willingness to pay thresholds. Conclusion: AS is likely to be a cost-saving treatment strategy for some patients with early stage localised prostate cancer. However, cost-effectiveness is dependent on patients' valuation of health states. Better predictability of tumour progression and modified reimbursement practice would support widespread use of AS in the context of the German health care system. More research is necessary in order to reliably quantify the health benefits compared with initial treatment and account for patient preferences.
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