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Independent research in Eastern and Southern Africa identifies opportunities to improve effectiveness of Global Fund processes
Arlette Campbell White
'Synthesis report' focuses on grants in Malawi, Tanzania and Zimbabwe
Global Fund to benefit from “breakthrough” ARV pricing agreement
State-of-the-art fixed dose combination regimen will cost $75 per patient per year
In what has been hailed as a “breakthrough” and a “game changer,” a pricing agreement between the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation and two generic drug companies will result in significant savings in the cost of antiretrovirals (ARVs). As a result of the agreement, starting in 2018 a state-of-the-art fixed dose combination ARV regimen will be available in 92 developing nations at a maximum cost of $75 per patient per year.
Financial Developments
Bernard Rivers
The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation yesterday announced a new pledge of $50 million for the Fund. This marks the third consecutive year in which Gates has given $50 million to the Fund. Although private foundations have a Global Fund board seat, no other foundation has ever given to the Fund, except for pro bono services and some very minor donations of a few thousand dollars.
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Banning Sales of Sex Toys
By Alex Henderson
XBIZ, June 13, 2005
In February, Alabama's controversial ban on sex toy sales went all the way to the U.S. Supreme Court, which — much to the disappointment of sex toy providers — refused to examine the constitutionality of the ban. Under an Alabama law passed in 1998, selling a dildo or vibrator in that state can result in a year of incarceration and a $10,000 fine — and there are six other states where selling sex toys is illegal or greatly restricted, including Georgia and Texas (where schoolteacher Joanne Webb was arrested in 2003 for selling vibrators).
Because of the Christian Right-inspired war on sex toys that is taking place in the American Bible Belt, webmasters who sell those items online are asking jurisdictional questions: Could a webmaster who is based in Washington or Massachusetts (states that don't have sex toy bans) face prosecution for mailing a dildo to a customer in Alabama?
Lawrence Walters, a high-profile First Amendment lawyer with a long history of representing adult-oriented businesses, stressed that the main issue online sex toy merchants need to be concerned about is laws in their state, county or city. Walters said that if a webmaster who lives in a place where sex toys are legal mails them to a place where they are illegal, the items could be "seized or intercepted" by authorities. But, he added, "As far as a prosecution and a webmaster being extradited to Alabama or Georgia from Boston or Seattle to face charges of distributing sex toys, it's not realistic."
However, Walters emphasized that if a webmaster is physically based in Alabama or any other state with a sex toy prohibition, he/she could, in fact, be prosecuted for selling dildos or vibrators online.
"We're not going to see rampant obscenity prosecutions against devices using federal law; it simply doesn't apply based on case law," Walters said. "But we may see more of the states and even some local governments — some counties — passing new obscene-device laws and obscene-novelty laws. And if you happen to be a webmaster who lives in a state or a county where those devices are illegal, it doesn't matter where you're sending the devices to. The fact that you're selling these items and putting them in packages is enough for local prosecutors to come after you."
Lawrence vs. Texas
Jeffrey J. Douglas, a First Amendment attorney who heads the Free Speech Coalition's board of directors, believes that because of the Supreme Court's ruling in the Lawrence vs. Texas case, sex toy bans will eventually be declared unconstitutional. In 2003, that ruling struck down Texas' sodomy law and supported the right to sexual privacy; Douglas insists that sex toy bans are a violation of Lawrence vs. Texas.
"Lawrence vs. Texas, in essence, says that states do not have the power to create criminal liability on purely moral grounds," Douglas said. "Post-Lawrence vs. Texas, there is not a single rational justification for the existence of anti-sex toy laws — and the fact that the Supreme Court chose not to enforce its own ruling doesn't persuade me that there is any legal justification."
But Douglas asserted that until the Lawrence vs. Texas ruling is truly enforced and all sex toy bans are abolished on constitutional grounds, webmasters need to obey those laws — and that means that if one wants to sell dildos and vibrators online, Alabama isn't the place to do it.
Alabama's sex toy ban is something that novelty-store owner Sherri Williams has been fighting — with the help of the ACLU and others — for seven years. Although quite disappointed by the Supreme Court's refusal to examine Alabama's ban, Williams, who lives in Florida and owns two erotic boutiques in Alabama, hasn't given up. She is in the process of assembling an organization called the National Alliance of Adult Trade Organizations (NAATO), which she describes as "an umbrella group that will fight these bans on adult toys."
Williams said that her decision to form NAATO has received enthusiastic support from pro-sex toys activist Lisa S. Lawless — who heads an organization called the National Association for Sexual Awareness and Empowerment (NASAE) — and Michelle L. Freridge, executive director of the Free Speech Coalition.
Bitter But Empowered
"My goal is to get the ACLU, NASAE and FSC united under the umbrella of NAATO," Williams explained. "I'm obviously a little bitter — and I guess a little empowered — over my seven-year battle with Alabama's ban on adult toys and the absolute absurdity of it. The ban is a blatant disregard for the Constitution."
Lawless, who describes NASAE as "an emergency system that would provide support and legal advice for people who sell sex toys," shares Williams' view that if the Christian Right is not aggressively challenged when it comes to a sex toy ban, more states will inevitably pass them.
"To me," Lawless said, "it's absolutely disgusting what is going on in Alabama and Texas. It's an injustice. Sexuality is a beautiful part of who we are — there's nothing inherently dirty about it — and sex toys don't cause harm to anyone. The appalling thing is that these barbaric laws weren't passed in the 19th century; they were passed in the 1990s."
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Africa is bounded by the Mediterranean Sea to the north, by the Atlantic Ocean to the west, by the Red Sea to the northeast, and by the Indian Ocean to the southeast.
North Africa (Algeria, Egypt, Libya, Morocco, Tunisia, Western Sahara)
Sahel (Chad, Mali, Mauritania, Niger, Sudan)
West Africa (Benin, Burkina Faso, Cape Verde, Cote d'Ivoire, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Liberia, Nigeria, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Togo)
Central Africa (Angola, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Republic of the Congo, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Gabon, São Tomé and Príncipe, South Sudan)
East Africa (Burundi, Comoros, Djibouti, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Kenya, Madagascar, Mauritius, Mayotte, Reunion, Rwanda, Seychelles, Somalia, Tanzania, Uganda)
Southern Africa (Botswana, Lesotho, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa, Swaziland, Zambia, Zimbabwe)
Asia is bounded by the Pacific Ocean to the east, by Australia to the southeast, and by the Indian Ocean to the south. It's bordered by the Red Sea to the southwest, by Europe and the Urals to the west, and by the Arctic Ocean to the north.
Central Asia (Afghanistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan)
East Asia (China (which includes Hong Kong and Macau), Japan, Mongolia, North Korea, South Korea, Taiwan)
South Asia (Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Tibet, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, Sri Lanka)
Southeast Asia (Brunei, Cambodia, East Timor, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar (Burma), Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam)
Not included in Asia are:
Middle East (Bahrain, Iran, Iraq, Israel, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Syria, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, Yemen, Palestinian Territories)
Russia and the Caucasus (Azerbaijan, Armenia, Georgia, Russia)
Australia and Oceana describes the continents and islands generally located in the Southern Pacific. To the North is Asia. To the west across the Indian Ocean is Africa. To the East across the Pacific Ocean is South America.
Australia, Cocos (Keeling) Islands, Christmas Island, Ashmore and Cartier Islands, Heard Island, MacDonald Islands, Antarctica, Coral Sea Islands, Norfolk Island.
Melanesia (Soloman Islands, Vanuatu, New Caledonia, Fiji)
Micronesia (Northern Mariana Islands, Federated States of Micronesia, Palau, Guam, Wake Island, Marshall Islands, Nauru)
Midway Island
Johnstong Moll
Polynesia (Tuvalu, Baker and Howland Islands, Wallis & Fortuna, Samoa, Tonga, American Samoa, Tokelau, Kiribati, Jarvis Island, Palmyra Atoll & Kingman Reef, Cook Islands, French Polynesia, Pitcairn Islands, Easter Island)
The islands of the Caribbean Sea or West Indies are an extensive archipelago in the far west of the Atlantic Ocean.
Bahamas, Turks and Caicos Islands, Cuba, Cayman Islands, Dominican Republic, Haiti, Jamaica, Puerto Rico, Anguilla, Antigua and Barbuda, British Virgin Islands, Dominica, Guadeloupe, Montserrat, Saba, Saint-Barthelemy, Sint Eustatius, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Martin, US Virgin Islands, Barbados, Grenada, Martinique, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Trinidad and Tobago, Aruba, Bonaire, Curacao
Central America is the thin section of land that links the North American continent with the South American continent. Geographically part of North America, it is made up of seven small, mostly tropical countries that have much more in common with South America and Mexico than the more affluent north. Mexico is occasionally considered part of Central America due to the language and cultural heritage it shares with several of the countries in the region.
Belize, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, Panama
Europe encompasses an area of 10,180,000km² (3,930,000 square miles), stretching from Asia to the Atlantic, and from Africa to the Arctic.
Balkans (Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Croatia, Macedonia, Moldova, Montenegro, Romania, Kosovo and Serbia)
Baltic states (Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania)
Benelux (Belgium, Luxembourg, Netherlands)
Britain and Ireland (Guernsey, Ireland, Isle of Man, Jersey, United Kingdom)
Central Europe (Austria, Czech Republic, Germany, Hungary, Liechtenstein, Poland, Slovakia, Slovenia, Switzerland)
Greece, Cyprus and Turkey
Caucasus (Georgia, Armenia, Azerbaijan)
Iberia (Andorra, Gibraltar, Portugal, Spain)
Italy (Italy, Malta, San Marino, Vatican City)
Russia, Ukraine, and Belarus
Nordic countries (Denmark, Faroe Islands, Norway, Finland, Iceland, Sweden)
The Middle East is a region in western Asia and north-eastern Africa. The term was created by British military strategists in the 19th century, and definitions of the Middle East vary; it is not simply a geographical term, but also a political one, connoting that it separates Europe ("the West") from the Far East.
Bahrain, Iran, Iraq, Israel, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Oman, Palestinian Territories, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Syria, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, Yemen
North America is one of two continents named after the Italian explorer Amerigo Vespucci, with a surface area of 24,221,490km² (9,351,969 square miles). It's in the northern hemisphere, between the Pacific Ocean and the Atlantic Ocean and to the north of South America. North America's highest point is Alaska's Mount McKinley, which rises to 6,194m (20,320 ft) above sea level.
Canada, Greenland, Mexico, United States of America, Bermuda, Saint-Pierre and Miquelon
Nestled between the Caribbean, the South Pacific, and the South Atlantic Oceans, South America is the wilder of the Americas, and a continent of superlatives.
Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Falkland Islands, French Guiana, Guyana, Paraguay, Peru, Suriname, Uruguay, Venezuela
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Home » Never too young for a business plan
http://berkshireeagle.com
By Heather Bellow
Published April 14, 2017 in The Berkshire Eagle
SHEFFIELD — Megan Smith had an idea for dealing with the endless task of battling overgrown brush and invasive species in Berkshire County's wild yards and fields: Goat-scaping.
"Goats love to eat that stuff," said Smith, 15, a Mount Everett Regional High School freshman. "They would eat it and it would be gone."
It wasn't just a fun idea without any legs, however. As part of the BerkShares Entry to Entrepreneurship program for young people ages 14 to 25, Smith had to work out the nuts and bolts of her overhead for the goats, a little mobile hut to protect them, and a solar powered electric fence to keep them in.
She had to make a real business plan. She had to figure out what she would charge, and where the competition was.
In this case, she said, that is the pesticide Roundup — and humans, of course.
"Wouldn't you rather have cute little goats in your backyard instead of landscapers?" she told a full house.
Smith was one of nine young entrepreneurs who presented their business plans at Dewey Hall on Wednesday. Each was given seed money — $200 in BerkShares, a local currency still in the research and development phase.
Both BerkShares and its entrepreneurship program are supported by the Schumacher Center for New Economics, as well as local banks, businesses and individuals. All these community sponsors see the potential for young people turn ideas into businesses right here in the Berkshires.
"We are investing as a community and hoping it will give back to the community for a long time," said BerkShares Executive Director Alice Maggio.
Maggio calls it a "crowd-sourced business planning program" that pulls local business resources into the mix. These young entrepreneurs go through a series of workshops and get to learn from people like Keith Girard of the Pittsfield-based Massachusetts Small Business Development Center, and mentors with experience and financial wherewithal.
"It's fun," said mentor Howard Lefenfeld, who ran retail businesses for years. "It's nice to take life experience and pass it on to people who appreciate it."
Some of the participants went through the process just to learn how to turn an idea into a business; some already are doing something and want to turn it into a stronger, more serious enterprise. And some had plans that look like they might actually happen any minute.
"College kids drink lots of coffee," said Carla Hamida, a Bard College at Simon's Rock freshman.
She said Simon's Rock students need access to "a decent hot cup of coffee" more often than the college cafeteria is open, and said the free coffee in the cafeteria was horrible.
"It is stale and not strong enough, but they still drink it because there's no competition."
That's where Hamida comes in with her coffee kiosk in the Student Union, one that would sell coffee from Barrington Coffee Roasting Co., a Berkshires-born business started by two Simon's Rock graduates. Hamida has been working with one of the company's co-founders, Barth Anderson — the program's "on-call adviser for students" — and talking to school officials to try to lift this business off the ground.
Jeferson Vera has a plan for a mixed-cuisine restaurant. Pittsfield High School student Andrew LaPatin is a talented cartoonist and illustrator who has already made public murals and wants to do more. Keeley Farnam, 25, is ready for clients for her business: Keeley's Holistic Health Coaching — she just needs a location. Monica Yen already has a discount photography service geared toward students, and wanted to refine her business plan. And Monument Mountain Regional High School student Charley Seckler presented his plan for "Beef on the Beat," a local grocery delivery service with different price tiers.
"For the luxury service I'll come into [your house] and put the food away," Seckler said, adding that second homeowners would likely be the prime takers, prompting much laughter.
Lenox Memorial Middle and High School student Michael Abdalla has a plan to make his family's ice cream shop in Lee, Lucky's Ice Cream & Grill, more environmentally sustainable.
"The ice cream business leaves behind a huge footprint, mostly from packaging," he said. "I see all the stuff that gets thrown away."
And Anna Houston, 27, who works at North Plain Farm in Great Barrington, said there isn't a place in a three-hour radius that will slaughter and process locally raised chickens.
Wouldn't it be nice, she said, to be able to buy local chickens at local supermarkets?
She has a plan: Buy a processing box about the size of a shipping container that can process 200 chickens in an hour. The boxes can be USDA certified, and with that, chickens can be sold anywhere. Right now all she needs is a place to put it and a hook up for plumbing and utilities.
Houston said she's already looking into the regulatory hurdles — like local zoning — she'll have to clear. But with the help of this program, she is already thinking like a seasoned businesswoman.
"Bureaucracy is a problem," she said.
Reach staff writer Heather Bellow at 413-329-6871.
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Home » Perspectives Papers » The Vienna Accord Only Postpones Confrontation with Iran
The Vienna Accord Only Postpones Confrontation with Iran
By Maj. Gen. (res.) Yaakov Amidror August 5, 2015
BESA Center Perspective Papers No. 303
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY: The Vienna agreement has made the situation more complex and dangerous, not less so. Even if Iran completely abides by the terms of the agreement, when restrictions and sanctions come to an end fifteen years hence, it will emerge much stronger, militarily and economically. This situation will almost assuredly lead to the use of force against Iran, because Iran undoubtedly will try to produce nuclear weapons; be much better able to withstand foreign pressures; and hold significant sway across the Middle East. The conflict that will ensue will take place in conditions far worse (from a Western perspective) than before the agreement, pitting the West (and/or Israel) against a much-stronger Iran.
The agreement with Iran reached by the Western powers represents, ostensibly, a great achievement. If the Iranians abide by its terms, their ability to achieve nuclear weapons status will be set back by around fifteen years (although it could be claimed that part of the agreement is valid for only ten years). Furthermore, the strict inspection arrangements are meant to ensure that even if Iran does not observe the agreement, IAEA inspectors will be able to spot any violations, and there will be plenty of time (a year) to formulate a response.
However, this would be to ignore the central problem that arises from the agreement and from a series of inherent weaknesses in the accord. It is clear that the agreement was signed in order to delay the Iranian nuclear bomb program, not to end it. And thus, when the program rears its head again it will be a problem several times more serious and far harder to deal with.
There is no cause for hysteria. The agreement will not bring about Israel’s downfall, and in the best case scenario may even buy Israel some time to better prepare for confronting the Iranian challenge. Nevertheless, the map of reality should be read correctly, and not through rose-tinted glasses. It is important to emphasize that soberly, the verdict should be judged as a bad agreement. The reality facing Israel (and the world) following the signing of the agreement is significantly more threatening than before.
The main problem is with the substantial outcome of the agreement, which was well described by Iranian President Rouhani, as follows: Iran gets to keep its (military!) nuclear program, while sanctions against Iran are lifted. For the Iranians it was important, above all else, to gain international legitimacy for their nuclear program, and in this they have been successful.
As a basis for discussion it is important to emphasize that the Iranian nuclear program has no civilian element, and no justification other than as a military program. This is the consensus of all the international experts, some of whom will only say so privately, but most of whom are explicit in this. There is no serious expert who thinks that Iran is developing its capabilities for civilian purposes.
On the basis of this understanding, which was accepted by the American experts as well, American policy was initially clear: the agreement should dismantle Iran’s nuclear capabilities. This was the term used by the Americans themselves. But at some stage the US decided to move from a policy aimed at dismantling Iran’s nuclear capability, to a policy aimed at delaying Iran’s ability to achieve nuclear weapons by ten to fifteen years.
There are several components to the American solution:
a) A significant slow-down of the enrichment program, involving shutting down almost half of Iran’s centrifuges (There are currently around 9,000 centrifuges active; after the agreement there will be just over 5,000). Furthermore, almost all the enriched material will be transferred out of Iran. Iran will continue enrichment, but will no longer have a stock of enriched material, which is a necessary condition for producing weapons.
b) Throughout the period covered by the agreement, Iran will not build a reactor that can produce plutonium. Construction had begun on such a reactor as it will now be modified so that it will not be capable of producing plutonium.
c) A strict inspections regime will be put in place to prevent Iran from cheating and hiding violations of the agreement.
From the moment that the policy in Washington changed, and there was no longer any intention of actually dismantling Iran’s nuclear capabilities, it was clear to the Americans that it would be impossible to include Israel in the negotiations. The US therefore shifted to conducting secret negotiations that it hid from Israel.
While the importance of personal relations should not be underestimated, this US decision to keep the details of the negotiations with Iran from Israel stemmed from the fundamental understanding that, following the shift in American policy, Israel would not be able to agree with the purpose of the negotiations, nor in any case involved in an active capacity.
As long as the purpose of the negotiations was shared and agreed-upon, Israel went along with the US, and did nothing that might upset the process. As soon as the US decided to make do with delaying Iran’s getting the bomb, by a fixed time period, then Israel was left on the outside – not because of the strained relations between the president and the prime minister, but because of significant differences of opinion. Subsequently, although the American negotiators did make use of Israeli experts, Israel was not involved in the central deliberations.
What happens next? Although the struggle in Congress has yet to be concluded, for the purposes of this paper I assume that the president will use his veto to uphold the agreement even without the consent of Congress. I also assume that the Americans will seriously try to monitor Iran’s implementation of the agreement.
What are Iran’s options? This is an important question, the answer to which will be the most influential factor on Israel’s course of action and responses.
It should be emphasized that, in any case, Israel must maintain its freedom of choice. The fact that the powers signed an agreement must not be allowed to paralyze Israel. The country’s security is at stake, and on this issue we should take the advice of the current President of the US: “Israel must be able to defend itself, by itself,” even if the agreement makes this a more complex proposal.
It should be assumed that whichever course Iran chooses, it will be very conscientious about keeping to the requirements of the agreement during the early stages of its implementation (a year or two, at least). Iran may try, during this period, here and there to erode the understandings regarding inspections, but it will not try to cheat and to crudely contravene the agreed rules.
During this period Iran’s supreme interest will be the lifting of sanctions. Around 60% of the agreement deals with the lifting of sanctions and the dismantling of the mechanisms used to enforce them. The removal of sanctions will allow Iran to rebuild and significantly strengthen its economy as billions will flow into Iran, even though a proportion will be lost to the dark abyss of entrenched Iranian corruption.
This step will also allow the regime to trumpet its achievements, and to strengthen its position versus those Iranians who are more inclined toward freedom and democracy. (Whether the main beneficiaries will the fundamentalists, who will claim that stubbornness has been rewarded, or the less hardline factions, who will point to the benefits of displaying tactical flexibility, it is impossible to say.)
The lifting of sanctions will also serve to release a great amount of Iran’s energy and money which can be redirected toward furthering its interests in the Middle East and beyond. Here, the beneficiaries will be Iran’s allies – Hezbollah, Hamas, the Alawites in Syria, and the Houthis in Yemen. For all these reasons it can be expected that, initially, Iran’s efforts will be invested in removing the burden of sanctions and becoming stronger, both internally and externally.
After this initial period of several years or so, there are three possible directions in which events may develop:
A first scenario involves the possibility that the agreement will drive regime change in Tehran, or at least a change in the behavior of the current Islamic regime.
This scenario posits that in a decade from now the West will no longer have anything or anyone to fear in Iran, because moderate forces will have taken power, and Iran’s policies in terms of terror, relations with Israel, intervention in other states, and more, will be less aggressive and more moderate.
This perspective on the agreement – that it can and might succeed in changing the nature or behavior of the Iranian regime – is very powerful. It offers hope, which is a highly attractive perspective for all human beings, world leaders included.
This was the main theme of the speech given by the European Union’s foreign policy commissioner at the signing of the agreement, and it would appear that this belief is shared by many members of the establishment in Europe. It would not surprise me to learn that US decision makers too do not feel that they were “defeated” by their Iranian counterparts in the negotiations, but that they truly believe that this compromise with tyrants was the right course in order to bring about a better world. The agreement, they may have convinced themselves, will change the paths taken by Iranian dictators, and at the very least will do more to prevent threats to peace than the use of military force.
This is not mere naivety; it is a deep-rooted ideological perspective. This was also the accepted approach taken during the Cold War, when many thought that the very existence of an agreement with the USSR was more important than its content; because of the power of signing an agreement to refresh and improve relations between the two hemispheres. There were even those who claimed that simply meeting to negotiate, and recognizing the existence of the other’s claims, could open possibilities to a better world.
Before they changed their policy, the Americans stated that this was not the line of thinking that was guiding them in these negotiations, as they held no expectation of a change in the behavior of the regime following the agreement. Even today many in Washington would agree that such a hope would be baseless. This approach appears completely unrealistic and particularly unsuited to Iran, as it has revealed itself to observers of the Islamic revolution. But still some very important decision makers seem really motivated by that optimistic approach.
We can hope and pray that the optimists are right, but the probabilities seem stacked against them. This approach did not meet with success in Munich in 1938, or in the case of North Korea, or in the initial efforts of the Obama administration towards Russia. In truth, I am not aware of a single case in modern history in which this purported dynamic proved successful (despite the claims made with regard to the Nixon-China case).
A second scenario is that within a few years, the Iranians will feel sufficiently strengthened and will begin to cheat; initially on peripheral issues, and then as they gain confidence, on more substantial issues. In this context, the agreement will lead to two changes, one positive, and the second negative.
The positive achievement rests on the American promise that the inspections regime will be extremely strict, that inspections will deploy advanced technology so that infractions will be detected in close to real time, and that the American response to infractions will be swift and forceful. (This latter part has not been said explicitly, but is implied by the administration’s promises).
In spite of the illogical American concession regarding the “surprise inspections” of the non-declared sites, which gives the Iranians 24 days to prepare themselves, I assume the experts of the IAEA will do their best. However, there is no question that concessions made by the P5+1 in the final days of the negotiations relating to the 24 days would harm these capabilities.
At the same time, it is important to be aware that the level of intelligence provided by the P5+1 and mainly the Americans will inevitably decline over time. It will not be felt immediately, because at the beginning all parties will take care to ensure a high level of intelligence gathering. But over time, as other problems arise elsewhere in the world, the quality of intelligence about Iran will deteriorate. There will be two unavoidable reasons for this:
a) Priority. Even the mighty US needs to set priorities for the use of resources. After a while, once it is seen that Iran is indeed keeping to the agreement, there will naturally be a slow but steady transferal of intelligence resources to other burning problems.
b) Levels of operational risk. Against a state with which there is a signed agreement, intelligence operations are conducted at a lower level of risk. A complicated operation that, if discovered, might embarrass the US will be authorized for a hostile, dangerous state, but not for one with which a signed agreement exists. There may of course be states which find it less difficult to operate against states with which they have an agreement, but American efforts will certainly be affected by the new circumstances after the agreement.
Because of these two reasons, it is probable that over a period of several years the quantity and quality of intelligence will be reduced. This process is familiar in Israel from similar cases in the past, and there is no reason to think that there will be any difference for American intelligence vis-à-vis Iran. The result will be potentially disastrous for the agreement.
It is clear that Iranian cheating will not take place at the declared facilities which are under IAEA inspection, but at sites unfamiliar to the international community, whose location can only be discovered through gathering high-quality intelligence. The combination of the American concession on surprise inspections of such sites, and the inevitable decline in intelligence quality, offers an excellent foundation for successful Iranian cheating.
The ability to leverage American (and other) intelligence about Iran will also necessarily be eroded. The US will be unwilling to disclose its intelligence-gathering capabilities and methods, particularly those that would indicate operational activity on the soil of its new partner, Iran.
The IAEA, for its part, will be as unwilling as in the past to make use of external intelligence (even when presented with it) in order to conduct non-agreed inspections of sensitive facilities, out of fear of being accused of acting as an agent of Israel or the US. Hence it will need to invest a great deal of time and effort in order to build an independent dossier that will stand up to scrutiny, which will be sufficient for it to conduct more confrontational inspections at undeclared facilities. It is difficult to see how the IAEA might develop such capabilities.
It also appears that the claim, “a year will be sufficient in order to respond appropriately,” is not sufficiently well-founded. It is clear that the interest of any administration bound by the agreement, even if it inherits it, and certainly if it identifies with it, will be to obscure any violations rather than to recognize them, for as long as possible. Moreover, governments do not like to be put in the position of having to make difficult decisions, and so in general if a situation is not entirely clear, but rather contains shades of grey, the decision-makers (and even the intelligence agencies) tend to find “explanations” in order to delay making a decision.
Thus, for example, in 1995 Israel presented a great deal of high-quality, well- analyzed intelligence information to the US, to show our friends in Washington that the Iranian administration had begun a military nuclear program. The Americans took the issue very seriously, and appointed a team headed by a senior official to examine it. At the end of this process, this official let us know that we had “failed completely in our efforts to create a new enemy.” He meant that the US wasn’t about to identify Iran as a “new enemy” – despite Israel’s information – after the US had tackled Saddam Hussein in the First Gulf War. A further two years passed before my successor was able to persuade the Americans that the Iranian enemy was real and that its nuclear military program was dangerous.
It is not difficult to imagine US intelligence staff presenting information about Iranian violations and being rebuffed by decision-makers, using learned explanations. This would continue until they provide the impossible “smoking gun,” or until it is simply too late. In most similar cases intelligence services have needed more than a year from the moment at which a violation begins in order to identify it, understand it, and persuade the decision makers about it, and for these to then decide and act.
Based on the experiences in almost all similar cases in the past, it must be assumed with a high degree of probability that if the Iranians make an effort to cheat and to hide the evidence, it is almost certain that they will be able to develop their first nuclear device before the West can respond.
A third scenario is the possibility that the Iranians will abide by the agreement to the letter, all the way through to the end of its 10-15 year period. They will not cheat, but will use the time to expand their knowledge and capabilities, in theory and in practice.
Thus, for example, since Iran is allowed within certain limits to develop the next generation of centrifuges, they will focus their efforts on that. In such a scenario it is reasonable to assume that at the end of the period, after more than a decade, that will have the expertise to produce centrifuges that are 10 or 20 times faster. This is a very realistic prospect, and seemingly would not represent a violation of the agreement, as long as it is done with the appropriate caution.
Since the embargo on conventional weapons will be lifted after five years, the Iranians will work to significantly improve their anti-aircraft defenses. They can expect help from Russia, which needs the money to be gained from these projects, which are defensive in nature and therefore “acceptable.” Three years later the embargo on the Iranian missile project will also be lifted, and Iran will make every effort to progress in its development and production of precise missiles, particularly long-range ones that would allow it to threaten Europe initially (at a very early stage), and later the US.
There is little doubt that within ten years, and certainly once the embargo is lifted, Iran will achieve these capabilities. It will be better protected from any aerial threat, and able to carry out missile strikes on many areas of the world.
In parallel, determined efforts will be made to develop the Iranian economy so that, after a decade, it will be able to withstand outside pressures. For example, Iran will stockpile spare parts for sensitive systems, Iranian banks will hold more foreign currency, and there will be more partnerships with large international companies – making any future sanctions program more difficult.
In short, all the lessons will be learned from the last sanctions regime, and Iran will be better prepared for a similar situation in the future.
The mechanism to renew sanctions is such complicated, the decision to resume sanctions is almost impossible. But more importantly, it is clear that following a global rush to invest in Iran, involving both private and government investors, the possibility of a return to a sanctions regime will be significantly curtailed, as billions of dollars from the countries expected to impose sanctions will be invested in Iran – and who would want to lose them? But even if sanctions are resumed, they will have a greatly-reduced impact against an Iran that would be far more ready to withstand them than in the past.
Over the course of these years, Iran will greatly strengthen its grip on the Middle East. For example, it might solidify its control of Yemen, even developing the capacity to block the Bab al-Mandab strait and thus threaten global trade and the Suez Canal, Egypt’s lifeline. It will take complete control of Lebanon, and with the help of other countries (perhaps even including the US), it will “save” the region by fighting ISIS to become the true ruler of Iraq and of what would remain of Alawite Syria.
Hezbollah will be given thousands of precise missiles, while enjoying Iranian backing, Hammas will receive more aid. These organizations will feel stronger being supported by the new regional superpower, Iran, and will thus be less hesitant to act. And of course, Iran’s widespread terror network around the globe (according to reports from the US State Department) will be more active than ever, as an irritant and a deterrent.
There is little chance that America will follow through on its promise, that after signing the agreement it will be more determined in its efforts to contain Iran. US officials have repeatedly referred to this promise while defending the agreement. But this promise is unrealistic and illogical.
Once a rival state becomes a partner to an agreement, one does not increase efforts taken against it in other realms. It is the nature of agreements that cover a certain area of relations that they prevent pressure being applied in other areas, rather than increasing pressure. No-one in the West will now be interested in jeopardizing either the agreement or trade relations with Iran. It is therefore likely that, despite the messages of reassurance coming from Washington, Iran will become much stronger over those 15 years, internally, regionally, economically, and militarily, with little opposition from the US.
Only then, after 15 years of careful planning while observing all aspects of the agreement, will Iran begin an accelerated process of building a bomb. How long will it take then to identify and understand Iran’s actions? What tools will the world, and the US in particular, possess to deal with a stronger Iran following 15 years of development? How quickly will Iran have sufficient enriched material? No-one has the answers to these questions.
In 2031, then, the Iranian success in achieving the agreement signed in 2015 will come to full fruition. Iran’s logic throughout the negotiations will then become apparent, as in retrospect it will be seen that the country’s leaders gave up on fulfilling the dream of a military nuclear program in their time, in order to allow it to be achieved easily and with no real opposition less than twenty years later.
Thus, a year after the agreement expires, Iran assuredly will have a small number of missiles capable of reaching the US, hundreds of missiles capable of reaching large parts of Europe, thousands of precise missiles able to carry out attacks anywhere in the Middle East, and, I suppose, at least two atomic bombs. Who will be able to halt its march to regional domination? Who will be able to prevent the fulfillment of the 1,300 year-old Shi’ite dream? Who will be able to stop the representative of the Mahdi (the Shi’ite messianic figure) armed with nuclear weapons?
Once the agreement expires, Iran will be free to begin its rush to nuclear weapons, legitimately, having abided by the agreement – but with its regime bolstered and its dreams of expansion unchanged.
Several states in the region view these last two scenarios as likely (and even probable). They understand the danger of a Middle East threatened by an Iranian nuclear umbrella; and even prior to that, the dangers presented by Iran’s immediate strengthening due to the agreement. They are fearful, and so they will prepare themselves.
The practical outcome is that the Middle East will immediately enter a double arms race. The Gulf States will spend a lot of money on American weapons that will supposedly grant them increased security in the face of a more powerful Iran. Clearly their competition with Iran as to who is the strongest will reach great heights, as both the Russians and the Americans (and even France and Britain) have an economic interest in selling as much weaponry as possible, and there is no upper limit to the advances that money can buy.
This will be the straightforward part of a new Mideast arms race. The more difficult element in terms of international stability will come when at least three Sunni countries, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Turkey, reach the decision that they cannot afford to lag behind a Shi’ite power in developing nuclear weapons. The West will have no moral right to prevent them from doing so, having allowed the dark and cruel mullahs in Tehran a nuclear bomb.
These countries will begin this process sometime after the agreement is in place, once its shortcomings are clear, and will complete it very close to the expiration of the agreement in 15 years’ time. This will be an entirely different Middle East; very much a “New Middle East.” A very bad one.
In the meantime, paradoxically, the agreement may actually contribute to the strengthening of ISIS. The Sunnis have been engaged in a historical struggle with the Shi’ites since the seventh century, and for some time have felt threatened by the Iranian initiative that began with the 1979 revolution, and by the Shi’ite dynamism led by Iran throughout the region. Thus, for example, Iran is responsible for the deaths (by its own forces or by its various supported factions) of Sunnis fighting for their lives in Syria. Shi’ites in Iraq expelled the Sunnis from all positions of influence, and hurt them in every way possible, while Iran supported the Shi’ite government in Baghdad. Iran is leading the wars of Shi’ite minorities against a Sunni majority in Yemen and against the Sunni leaders of Bahrain.
Following the agreement, the Sunnis might feel that the US has “taken sides” in this historic battle. They will be able to claim, based on the visible evidence, that the US did not fight against the “Shi’ite” Assad when he used poison gas against Sunnis, but does fight against ISIS; and that the US ignores the interests of Sunni states and signs an agreement with the Shi’ite symbol of evil, Iran; and thus Sunnis must protect themselves.
Since ISIS is currently viewed as the strongest organization around, representing better than any others the Sunni interests in the region, this may make it easier for it to recruit more fighters to its ranks, to help it stand against the Shi’ite-American axis. A sign of such a process occurring will be if smaller rebel groups in Syria join ISIS, or announce cooperation with it. Ironically, should this happen, the West’s need for Iran to help stem the growth of ISIS will be greater than ever, and thus a feedback loop will be created.
It is impossible to claim, in light of all the shortcomings of the agreement as described above, that the agreement should be supported even if it is not perfect. This agreement will likely and necessarily lead to the use of force against Iran, at some stage or other, in order to halt its race toward nuclear weapons. This, however, will take place in far worse conditions than before the agreement, against a far- stronger Iran.
The administration claims that “this was the best agreement that could have been achieved, and should therefore it should upheld.” But since the contents of the discussions between the parties are not known, the only way for us to evaluate the negotiations is by the results. For example: Some have asked why the US did not include other issues, beyond the nuclear question, in the agreement, such as a commitment from Iran to desist from involvement in international terror. The American answer is that Washington did not want to include issues that would complicate the negotiations, and that might even lead to additional Iranian demands on nuclear issues in response. They therefore chose to stay focused on Iran’s nuclear program.
This answer does not hold up under scrutiny. At the very end of the negotiations, Iran sought concessions on two non-nuclear issues: The removal of sanctions on their missile program and on their conventional weapons build-up. In both cases, Washington agreed to an Iranian demand that had no connection to the nuclear issue. Sanctions on conventional weapons are to be lifted after five years, and sanctions on missiles will be lifted after a further three years.
Thus Iran was able to achieve non-nuclear concessions via the negotiations, while the US, by its own admission, did not even try to do so. If no attempt is made to improve vital issues during the negotiations, it is impossible to then claim that this was the best possible agreement.
As to the question, “Yes, but was the alternative?” there is a clear answer. The alternative was increasing the pressure of sanctions, conducting stubborn negotiations, and making serious preparations for military action that would crystalize all options on the table. Together, these would achieve a better agreement.
The choice was between a bad agreement, like the one achieved, and a far better agreement, because the Iranians desperately needed to conclude a deal. Why the six powers agreed to a bad agreement is an interesting historical question. In the meantime, we are left to deal with its consequences, which for Israel (and in my opinion for most of the world) are extremely dangerous.
Maj. Gen. (res.) Yaakov Amidror is the Greg and Anne Rosshandler Senior Fellow at the Begin-Sadat Center for Strategic Studies, and former national security advisor to the Prime Minister. He is also a fellow at JINSA’s Gemunder Center for Strategy and Defense. He served 36 years in senior IDF posts, including commander of the Military Colleges, military secretary to the Minister of Defense, director of the Intelligence Analysis Division in Military Intelligence, and chief intelligence officer of the Northern Command.
Photo Credit: Flickr – US Department of State
Topics: Iran Nuclear Deal Vienna
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Maj. Gen. (res.) Yaakov Amidror
Former National Security Advisor to the Prime Minister of Israel and the Head of the National Security Council. Served 36 years in senior IDF posts, including commander of the Military Colleges, military secretary to the Minister of Defense, director of the Intelligence Analysis Division in Military Intelligence, and chief intelligence officer of the Northern Command. Author of three books on intelligence and military strategy.
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The Tower of Trongsa
The serrated ridges around Trongsa form a vast rim from where hill slopes run sharply to the valley floor. The slopes are covered by a lush forest of evergreen and seasonal colors. Numerous white waterfalls streak the hillsides and drop into the Mangdue Chhu, which rushes down to the great plains of India. At the centre of this massive natural cradle sits the majestic Trongsa Dzong, crafted from a vision of Palden Lhamo.
This was where Bhutan’s Monarchy was born. For centuries the Dzong was a centre of religious and political evolution and now stands as one of the greatest monuments in the land.
High above the valley, at a strategic vantage point over Trongsa Dzong, rises its watchtower, the Ta Dzong. This “Tower of Trongsa” now tells the stories of the dzong and the valley that it has watched over for centuries.
His Majesty the King inaugurates the Ta Dzong today as a museum dedicated to the Wangchuck dynasty, landmarking yet another significant event as the nation celebrates 100 years of the Monarchy.
The Ta Dzong, a cylindrical stone structure rising five storeys, was built in 1652 by Chogyal Minjur Tempa, a task entrusted to him by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal. After more than 350 years, it has been resurrected into a classy museum, that represents a tasteful blend of tradition and modernity.
The central Utse structure is connected to two four-storey towers by multi-floor wings. A total of 11 galleries sit comfortably at split-levels over five floors to a rooftop that functions as a viewing gallery. Overall, the tower, that kept enemies at bay, exudes a feel of history as well as a sense of change.
At the heart of the museum sits the Raven Crown worn by Gongsar Ugyen Wangchuck. The Crown symbolises the triumph of the Bhutanese Monarchy and the supreme protector role of the Druk Gyalpo. The third floor of the Utse is dedicated to the Wangchuck dynasty, with ceremonial and personal belongings of the Kings and Queens of Bhutan. The displays include Jigme Namgyel’s sword, Gongsar Ugyen Wanghcuck’s gho, Jigme Dorji Wangchuck’s wine flask and radio, and a full dress set of the fourth Druk Gyalpo His Majesty Jigme Singye Wangchuck.
There are 224 items on display. They include a sacred image of Sung Joenma Dorji Chang (self spoken Vajradharna), a bronze statue of Pema Lingpa, made by himself, and a number of centuries-old treasures like dance and ritual costumes and objects, ancient prayer books, paintings and scrolls, and textiles.
The Ta Dzong is a living museum and the main lhakhang in the Utse is dedicated to the Maitreya Buddha (Gyaltsab Jampa), also known as the Future Buddha). A Khesar Lhakhang is dedicated to Khesar of Ling. The tower has always been a place of retreat and there are hermits in practice, including two yogis, who are in life long meditation.
Marie Christine Weinberger, the former counsellor of the Austrian development cooperation office (ACO) in Bhutan, became a familiar figure in Trongsa through the project. It was her last project before she retired and she said that her satisfaction came from being able to help create a world class museum, that would make Trongsa, and Bhutan, more valuable and attractive for visitors.
The present counsellor, Christian Mazal, said that ACO was deeply honoured that His Majesty the King himself was inaugurating the Ta Dzong Museum. He described the museum as “a new landmark in Austria-Bhutan relations”, a project that was completed after the restoration of Trongsa Dzong. The Nu 120 million project included the improvement of the foot trail across the river to the dzong along with the Bazam foot bridge. Apart from being a place of prayer for the people, he said it would play an important role in educating the people on culture and religion, and contribute to Bhutan’s economic development as a tourist attraction.
The museum, which has been designed and rebuilt under the supervision of professional architects and restorers from Austria, is a state-of-the-art monument. Veteran Bhutanese culturists say that it is a good example for Bhutanese restorers, who have to take up similar work in future.
With the inauguration ceremony, an important element of Bhutan’s past comes alive and merges with the present to provide lessons for the future.
Lyonchoen Jigmi Y Thinley said that the restoration of the unique Ta Dzong into a museum was a tribute to five successive great Kings of Bhutan’s Monarchy. “Bhutanese officials and people have always wanted to express our deep appreciation to the dynasty, that has made all of us proud to be Bhutanese,” he said. “We’re confident of continued peace and prosperity in the knowledge that the royal dynasty will always be with us.”
Expressing his appreciation to the government of Austria for helping the people of Bhutan offer this tribute to their Kings, the prime minister said that the restoration of the Ta Dzong was also a tribute to the great builders of the past, “who were our ancestors”. “It symbolises our determination to preserve and protect our cultural heritage and our unique identity. We must not just look at creating wealth but at recognising our cultural wealth and consolidating our assets.”
The Ta Dzong is the only structure, that has been restored specifically to tribute the Wangchuck dynasty as Bhutan celebrates the centenary of the Monarchy.
December 10, 2008 May 3, 2012 Tagged Museum, Ta Dzong, Trongsa 1 Comment
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The Museum of Monarchy in the Tower of Trongsa →
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Porsche Babblers > Porsche Boxster and Cayman Forum > Car Talk
Carrera GT number 1,111 delivered to Middle East customer
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Car Talk For topics and discussions about all makes and models
December 28th, 2005, 01:14 PM #1
Stuttgart. One Porsche customer in the United Arab Emirates has received a special Christmas present this year: Stuttgart-based Dr. Ing. h. c. F. Porsche AG has delivered to the customer a Carrera GT bearing the number 1,111. With this milestone, the 612 hp, 330 km/h Carrera GT is now the most successful high-performance sports car of all time. The last unit of this exceptional vehicle will leave the Leipzig plant in April 2006.
According to Dr. Wendelin Wiedeking, Chief Executive of the Stuttgart car maker: “The Carrera GT has once again strengthened the Porsche brand image as a sports car manufacturer and demonstrated that our product strategy has really hit the mark. What’s more, Porsche has made money with the Carrera GT. In this respect, this sports car has also been an economic success for our company, as expected.” Since the vehicle was first presented on September 28, 2000 in the Louvre, Paris, the Carrera GT has set the pace in this segment. “It is still in the top position to this day. The Carrera GT has thus earned a special place in Porsche’s 57-year history of success,” adds Wiedeking.
The most important market for the Carrera GT remains North America, where around half of the vehicles have been sold. Significant numbers have also been sold in the traditional Porsche markets of Germany, the UK, Italy and the Middle East.
As well as selling in large quantities, this born-to-race Porsche has also been heavily garlanded since its market launch in September 2003. The most well known awards include the Goldene Lenkrad (“Golden Steering Wheel”, Bild am Sonntag, 2005), the Auto Trophy (Auto Zeitung, 2004 and 2005), and Best Auto (Auto Motor und Sport, 2004). It has also received top international accolades from Auto Car (UK, 2004), Top Gear (UK, 2004) and Road & Track (USA, 2004). Up to December 2005, the Carrera GT had been the subject of some 3,500 articles adorning the front pages of German and respected international specialist magazines over 100 times.
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Bahá’í World Center
Spiritual and administrative center of the Bahá’í Faith, established in the twin cities of Acre and Haifa as a consequence of Bahá’u’lláh’s banishment to Palestine in 1868. The Shrine of Bahá’u’lláh at Bahjí, just north of Acre, and the Shrine of the Báb on the slope of Mount Carmel in Haifa, in a location chosen by Bahá’u’lláh, are the focal points of devotion for Bahá’ís around the world. The edifices of the administrative center are situated on Mount Carmel near the Shrine of the Báb.
Development under Shoghi Effendi
Development under the Universal House of Justice
Spiritual Significance
During the ministry of Bahá’u’lláh, the center of the Bahá’í Faith was wherever He happened to be. The Báb had written that the point toward which the faithful should turn in prayer (the qiblih) should be "He Whom God Will Make Manifest" (the messianic Figure promised by the Báb), wherever He should go, and ultimately would be fixed as the place where His remains would be laid to rest. Bahá’u’lláh confirmed this instruction in His book of laws, the Kitáb-i-Aqdas (Most Holy Book).1
The prison city of Acre became the center of the Bahá’í Faith when Bahá’u’lláh arrived there on 31 August 1868 as an exile and a prisoner of the Ottoman authorities. He and His companions were taken to the citadel, where they were confined for more than two years. On 3 September 1868 the text of Sultan Abdülaziz’s order condemning Bahá’u’lláh and His companions to perpetual banishment and forbidding the inhabitants of Acre from associating with the exiles was read out in the principal mosque of the city as a warning to the population. The resultant hostility and suspicion of the populace gradually gave way to respect for Bahá’u’lláh and for ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, who became increasingly responsible for relations between the exiles and the public; conditions became easier and the attitude of the local population more friendly. In October 1870 Bahá’u’lláh and His family were permitted to move from the citadel to the first in a series of rented quarters in Acre. In June 1877, although Bahá’u’lláh remained a prisoner, it became possible for Him to take up residence in pleasant surroundings outside the city walls, first at Mazra‘ih and then at Bahjí, where He passed away in 1892.
The activities of the Bahá’í World Center after Bahá’u’lláh’s arrival in Palestine consisted primarily of the dictation of letters (known in Bahá’í terminology as "tablets") and, when circumstances permitted, the reception of pilgrims. Bahá’u’lláh dictated the tablets to His secretary, usually Mírzá Áqá Ján. They were then transcribed by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Mírzá Muhammad-‘Alí, Zaynu’l-Muqarribín, and others, and dispatched to the Bahá’ís of Iran and elsewhere through couriers, such as Shaykh Salmán and Hájí Amín, and through pilgrims. Letters from the Bahá’ís were brought to the Holy Land by the same means. The flow of pilgrims had to be regulated, however. The undercurrent of antagonism to the Bahá’í Faith as a result of rumors that had been spread by its opponents, and the fact that the exiles remained prisoners of the government, meant that a sudden influx of pilgrims could have alarmed the authorities and created grave danger for the Faith. Bahá’u’lláh, therefore, required every pilgrim to obtain His permission before setting off on the journey and to pause at Beirut or Alexandria, where trusted representatives resided, for this permission to be confirmed before proceeding to Acre.
‘Abdu’l-Bahá, who continued to live in the city of Acre in a residence known as the House of ‘Abbúd, increasingly undertook day-to-day arrangements such as renting houses, securing food, and meeting with officials. Money to cover the expenses of the Bahá’ís came from a variety of sources. As was customary for those exiled for political reasons, the Ottoman government provided a small allowance for the maintenance of Bahá’u’lláh and those exiled with Him. This was later augmented by money that the Bahá’ís in the Holy Land were able to earn through trade. Also, Bahá’ís from Iran and other centers in the Middle East sent contributions and, later, payments of Huqúqu’lláh (Arabic: the "Right of God," a law providing for payment, as a private act of conscience, of a percentage of one’s capital gains to a fund at the disposition of the Head of the Faith). Despite this income, however, financial resources were limited, and the exiles lived simply; a pilgrim who visited the Holy Land in the last months of Bahá’u’lláh’s life records, for example, that the room in which Bahá’u’lláh lived at Bahjí was bare except for a chair and reed matting on the floor.2
Bahá’u’lláh arrived in Acre with sixty-six family members and companions. Over the years, numbers of Bahá’ís, some driven from their homes by persecution, some wanting to be close to Bahá’u’lláh, settled in the Acre–Haifa area. By the time of Bahá’u’lláh’s passing in 1892, these totaled about three hundred. A few served in the household of Bahá’u’lláh and in the Garden of Ridván, a spot near Acre that Bahá’u’lláh often visited, and in other gardens, but the majority took up occupations such as shopkeepers, carpenters, and iron- and coppersmiths in Acre and Haifa. When, on Bahá’u’lláh’s instructions, land was purchased on the Sea of Galilee, Mírzá Muhammad Qulí, Bahá’u’lláh’s half-brother, moved to Nuqayb to farm a tract of land that had been assigned to him.
During the ministry of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, from 1892 to 1921, the affairs of the Bahá’í World Center became more complex. With the rebellion of Mírzá Muhammad-‘Alí (‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s half-brother, the second surviving son of Bahá’u’lláh) and his supporters against the covenantal authority of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, the Mansion of Bahjí, in which Mírzá Muhammad-‘Alí and his family resided, was no longer under the control of the Head of the Bahá’í Faith. The activities of these Covenant-breakers (Bahá’ís who attempt to disrupt the unity of the Faith by opposing the authority of Bahá’u’lláh or His designated successors as Head of the Faith) caused further problems when they led to the renewal of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s incarceration within the walls of Acre in 1901.
In 1896 ‘Abdu’l-Bahá rented the House of ‘Abdu’lláh Páshá in Acre, both to receive pilgrims, who were now coming from Europe and America as well as from the Middle East, and to house His growing extended family as His daughters began to marry. Later, from about 1907, He began to move His family to Haifa, where He joined them in 1909 after His release from incarceration. His house in Haifa, located on what is now known as Haparsim (Persian) Street at the foot of Mount Carmel, became the administrative center of the Bahá’í Faith.
‘Abdu’l-Bahá had several secretaries who served Him in this capacity for varying lengths of time and who helped Him with His correspondence. Usually, one secretary was fluent in English and assisted with the correspondence received in that language. ‘Abdu’l-Bahá continued Bahá’u’lláh’s pattern of corresponding with individual Bahá’ís. As the postal services in the Middle East improved, the need to use Bahá’í couriers decreased.
One of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s main achievements in developing the Bahá’í World Center—indeed, one of the greatest achievements of His ministry3—was the construction of the Shrine of the Báb on Mount Carmel at a spot that had been designated by Bahá’u’lláh. This was an enterprise fraught with problems at every stage. ‘Abdu’l-Bahá laid the foundation stone for the Shrine in 1899, but construction continued for many years. On 21 March 1909 ‘Abdu’l-Bahá laid the remains of the Báb to rest in a vault within the Shrine. Twelve years later, on 29 November 1921, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá was buried in an adjacent vault. Shoghi Effendi later enlarged the Shrine and completed the building by adding a superstructure (See Section: Development under Shoghi Effendi).
From about 1909 onward, pilgrims were accommodated in Haifa. A pilgrim house built near the Shrine of the Báb in 1909 by Mírzá Ja‘far Rahmání, a Bahá’í from Ashgabat in Turkmenistan, housed pilgrims from the Middle East. Pilgrims from the West stayed in a house opposite ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s residence in Haifa.
In 1921, when Shoghi Effendi became Guardian of the Bahá’í Faith according to the provisions of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s Will and Testament , he promptly considered the steps required for the establishment of the Universal House of Justice, the supreme council of the Bahá’í Administrative Order (See: Administration, Bahá’í). In 1922 he gathered in Haifa "a group of representative and well-known Bahá’ís" to discuss establishing the Universal House of Justice.4 However, it became apparent that such a move would be premature, as it required a firm administrative foundation and a pool of well-informed Bahá’ís from which to draw both electors and membership—conditions that did not exist in 1922.
Thus Shoghi Effendi "set about trying to establish at least the preliminary forms that might precede its election."5 During the early years of his ministry, he began bringing to Haifa Bahá’ís who could form a secretariat to assist him in his work. His first collaborator, Dr. John E. Esslemont from England, arrived in Haifa in November 1924 but died suddenly a year later, in November 1925. Others whom Shoghi Effendi approached were unable for a variety of reasons to come to Haifa or came but soon had to leave. As a result, Shoghi Effendi gave up for the time being the idea of bringing a number of competent Bahá’ís to Haifa to form an international Bahá’í secretariat. Instead, he relied on members of his family to assist him in his work as Guardian. Whenever he was absent from the Holy Land, he left principal responsibility in the hands of his great-aunt Bahíyyih Khánum, the daughter of Bahá’u’lláh. Shoghi Effendi’s father, Mírzá Hádí Shírází Afnán, represented him in meetings with officials and assisted with Persian correspondence. Shoghi Effendi’s cousins Rúhí and Suhayl Afnán and his brother Husayn Rabbání, all of whom had studied in Beirut, served Shoghi Effendi, among others, in the position of English secretary. He had Persian secretaries as well: ‘Azízu’lláh Bahádur, Mahmúd Zarqání, and Núri’d-dín Zayn.
In 1925 Shoghi Effendi invited Effie Baker, the first Australian woman to become a Bahá’í (See: Dunn, Clara, and Dunn, John Henry Hyde.Arrival in Australia), to remain in Haifa after her pilgrimage. She served until 1936 as the keeper of the Western Pilgrim House and the custodian of the International Bahá’í Archives. An accomplished photographer, she took photographs of the Bahá’í World Center, many of which were published in early volumes of the publication called The Bahá’í World. Between July 1930 and January 1931, at Shoghi Effendi’s request, Baker traveled extensively in Iraq and Iran, creating a photographic record of sites associated with Bábí and Bahá’í history.
In the summer of 1929, Shoghi Effendi conceived the idea of holding an international conference at which the formation of National Spiritual Assemblies (See: Administration, Bahá’í.Institutions of Bahá’í Administration.National Spiritual Assemblies) in the Middle East, as well as the subject of the Bahá’í administration in general, could be informally discussed. Plans for the conference were in hand when Shoghi Effendi learned that some of the older believers saw this as an opportunity to elect some form of interim international body. Shoghi Effendi believed this to be untimely and canceled the conference, saying it would be "a source of confusion, misunderstanding and even controversy."6 He held in abeyance for the next twenty years the idea of setting up a precursor to the House of Justice, concentrating instead on building up the network of Local and National Spiritual Assemblies around the world as "the bedrock upon the strength of which the Universal House is in future to be firmly established and raised."7
From the beginning of his ministry, Shoghi Effendi also devoted great effort to the physical development of the Bahá’í World Center—safeguarding, extending, and beautifying its properties. Mírzá Muhammad-‘Alí and his supporters let the Mansion of Bahjí fall into so dilapidated a condition that by November 1927 the roof was in danger of collapsing, causing them to seek assistance from Shoghi Effendi. He was then able to insist that they evacuate the building before he undertook repairs. They moved out of the mansion two years later, and Shoghi Effendi immediately set about restoring it. Later he obtained the approval of the British authorities for it to become a museum, permanently transferred to his control as Head of the Faith. In 1952 he was able to acquire extensive land around Bahjí for its beautification. Just before his passing in 1957, Shoghi Effendi succeeded in negotiating the expropriation by the state of the last of the properties around Bahjí occupied by the remnants of the Covenant-breakers. He also obtained permission for the Bahá’ís to have access to the room in the Acre citadel that had been occupied by Bahá’u’lláh, and in 1950 he secured the lease of the property at Mazra‘ih, where Bahá’u’lláh resided from 1877 to 1879.
In Haifa, Shoghi Effendi improved the facilities for pilgrims by building the Western Pilgrim House, which had been contemplated by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, on a site across Haparsim Street from the House of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá. This project had been initiated through a benefaction by Harry Randall, one of the early Bahá’ís in the United States, and was completed in 1926 with the assistance of Amelia Collins, another prominent American Bahá’í. Shoghi Effendi supervised the addition of three rooms to the Shrine of the Báb, as intended by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, built its superstructure (completed in 1953), and progressively extended the terrace on which it stands; purchased land for the buildings of the permanent administrative center, the terraces above and below the Shrine of the Báb, and the site for the future Bahá’í House of Worship (Mashriqu’l-Adhkár) in Haifa; laid out rudimentary and symbolic terraces below the Shrine, linking it to the main avenue of the city; erected a befitting memorial over the resting place of Bahíyyih Khánum and transferred the remains of the brother (See: Mihdí, Mírzá) and the mother of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá to a location near it; and constructed the first of the buildings of the administrative center, the International Archives Building, which was completed in 1957. Shoghi Effendi frequently referred to Bahá’u’lláh’s Tablet of Carmel , written in 1890 during one of His visits to Mount Carmel, as the charter for the development of the Bahá’í World Center.
When the Jewish-Arab conflict in the Holy Land reached a peak in the 1940s, Shoghi Effendi asked the majority of the Bahá’ís to leave the country, except for a small number whom he retained as caretakers of the Bahá’í holy places and gardens and for other essential services.
Shoghi Effendi maintained cordial contacts with local and national figures in Mandatory Palestine and later in the State of Israel, thereby facilitating the recognition of the Bahá’í World Center by the authorities and the granting of tax-exempt status to the Bahá’í holy places, beginning in 1934 with the properties on Mount Carmel. The recognition thus won from the British Mandate authorities was continued after 1947 by the State of Israel. Among the actions taken by Shoghi Effendi to consolidate the position of the Bahá’í World Center was the establishment of Palestine branches (later, Israel branches) of several National Spiritual Assemblies. Shoghi Effendi was then able to transfer to these officially incorporated bodies various Bahá’í properties in the Acre–Haifa area that had previously been held in the names of individuals.
As the Bahá’í administrative institutions around the world developed, they became the primary focus of Shoghi Effendi’s extensive correspondence, which comprised approximately thirty-six thousand letters and messages. He also remained in contact with individual Bahá’ís in every land.
The support and secretarial assistance that Shoghi Effendi’s family gave him gradually diminished during the 1940s and early 1950s, as one by one the surviving relatives broke the Covenant and were expelled from the Bahá’í community. Soon only his wife, Rúhíyyih Khánum (See: Hands of the Cause of God), whom Shoghi Effendi described as "my helpmate, my shield . . . and my tireless collaborator,"8 remained to assist him with his English correspondence. Her father, Canadian architect Sutherland Maxwell (See: Hands of the Cause of God), designed the superstructure of the Shrine of the Báb and aided Shoghi Effendi in its construction. In 1947 Rúhíyyih Khánum’s close friend Gladys Anderson was invited to move from the United States to Haifa, where she took over a wide range of responsibilities. In early 1948 her fiancé, Ben Weeden, was also invited to serve at the Bahá’í World Center. He assisted with the building projects, among other assignments. After their marriage, the couple attended many official functions and played a role in contacting government officials on Shoghi Effendi’s behalf. Their services in this capacity continued until February 1951, when Ben Weeden had to leave Haifa because of ill health. Gladys Weeden continued her work in Haifa for nearly a year, leaving to join her husband in early 1952.
During the months spanning the end of 1950 and the beginning of 1951, Shoghi Effendi took a major step in the development of the administrative institutions at the Bahá’í World Center. In November 1950 he invited five Bahá’ís to serve in Haifa. They were Lutfu’lláh Hakím, originally from Iran but then residing in England, who had served at the Bahá’í World Center during the ministry of `Abdu’l-Bahá; Amelia Collins and Charles Mason Remey, prominent American Bahá’ís since the time of `Abdu’l-Bahá (both of whom Shoghi Effendi would shortly name among the first contingent of the Hands of the Cause of God); and Ethel Revell and Jessie Revell, sisters from the United States who had also been Bahá’ís since the time of `Abdu’l-Bahá. After these five arrived, he informed them, the Weedens, and Rúhíyyih Khánum of his intention to appoint them as members of an International Bahá’í Council, with Rúhíyyih Khánum to be the liaison between the Guardian and the Council. In a message dated 9 January 1951, he proclaimed to the Bahá’í world the "weighty epoch-making decision" to form the "first embryonic International Institution" of the Bahá’í Faith.9
With the unexpected departure of the Weedens, the Council consisted of six members. In March 1952 Shoghi Effendi announced the enlargement of the Council to include Leroy Ioas from the United States, as Secretary-General, and Ugo Giachery from Italy, member at large. Like Collins and Remey, both had recently been named Hands of the Cause. Subsequently, Shoghi Effendi appointed a ninth member, Sylvia Ioas, who resided in Haifa with her husband, Leroy. Shoghi Effendi gave the members of the International Bahá’í Council many of the functions of liaison with government authorities.
After Shoghi Effendi’s death in 1957, the staff at the Bahá’í World Center continued to expand. The Hands of the Cause of God, who functioned as the Head of the Bahá’í Faith during the interregnum between Shoghi Effendi’s passing and the election of the Universal House of Justice in 1963, appointed nine of their number to serve at the World Center under the overall authority of the body of the Hands of the Cause. For ease of reference in relations between the Bahá’í World Center and the Israeli authorities, these nine Hands residing in the Holy Land were designated the Custodians. They established their office in a building within the precincts of the House of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá.10 The office of the International Bahá’í Council remained in the Western Pilgrim House. The Council continued to function under the direction of the Hands of the Cause in the Holy Land, who called on all the members of National and Regional Spiritual Assemblies throughout the world to elect a new nine-member council in 1961, for a two-year term, in preparation for the election of the Universal House of Justice in April 1963.
When the Universal House of Justice was elected in 1963, its nine members and their families took up residence in Haifa. The Western Pilgrim House became the offices of the Universal House of Justice, and a small secretariat was recruited to serve it. From that time onward, the Bahá’í World Center has continued to grow, and the number of those working as volunteers has increased, by March 2008 totaling 665 full-time volunteer workers from seventy-nine countries. A large proportion of the staff consists of youth volunteers (numbering some 338 between the ages of 18 and 30 in March 2008) who assist with various support activities.
A measure of the expansion at the Bahá’í World Center is the fact that whole departments are now responsible for tasks that Shoghi Effendi used to undertake single-handedly. The exact organization of departments and offices varies from time to time, but they can be grouped into the following categories:
Secretariat—concerned with the correspondence of the Universal House of Justice, including the filing, indexing, and retrieval of this material, as well as the processing of responses to incoming letters.
Research Department—responsible under the direction of the Universal House of Justice for preparing material from the authoritative Bahá’í texts on issues specified by the Universal House of Justice, as well as producing compilations of scripture, translating and checking translations, and researching questions that come from all parts of the Bahá’í world.
Department of Library and Archival Services—divided into an Archives Office, responsible for the preservation, arrangement, and description of the Bahá’í authoritative texts; a Conservation Office, responsible for preserving the Bahá’í sacred writings and relics, as well as other historic documents and artifacts; and the Bahá’í World Center Library.
Offices charged with the responsibility for major construction and renovation projects and for the preservation and maintenance of the holy places and other Bahá’í properties at the World Center, including acquisition, restoration and construction, cleaning, maintenance, security, and gardens development. Important acquisitions include outright ownership of Mazra‘ih (1973), the House of ‘Abdu’lláh Páshá (1975), and additional land around Bahjí and Mazra‘ih and on Mount Carmel. This group of offices also organizes pilgrimages.
Offices concerned with all legal issues and relations with government agencies, the media, and civil society. On 22 April 1987 an international agreement was signed with the State of Israel, carrying forward the recognition that had been obtained by Shoghi Effendi under the British Mandate and in the early years of the creation of the State of Israel and defining the relationship of the Bahá’í World Center with the state.
Offices responsible for statistical analysis and for audiovisual resources.
Offices responsible for worldwide issues related to socioeconomic development and the environment.
Offices concerned with the management of funds, including such functions as handling contributions, accounting, purchasing, disbursements, and cost analysis.
Offices that perform service functions—meeting needs for data processing, personnel, accommodation, health, telecommunications, and administrative development.
Certain offices and institutions have functioned as adjuncts and auxiliaries of the Bahá’í World Center although physically located outside the Acre–Haifa area. The first of these was the International Bahá’í Bureau, established in 1925 in Geneva. Currently, Bahá’í official contacts with most international organizations are carried out through the external affairs offices of the Bahá’í International Community situated in Haifa, New York, Geneva, and elsewhere.
In 1973 the International Teaching Center was established to function as the central institution coordinating the work of the Continental Boards of Counselors and their Auxiliary Boards around the world. The members of the International Teaching Center were the Hands of the Cause, throughout their lifetimes, and Counselors appointed by the Universal House of Justice to serve in that capacity. The former Western Pilgrim House was the office of the International Teaching Center for many years until its own building on Mount Carmel was completed in 2000. At present the International Teaching Center has nine full-time Counselors as members and a growing support staff.
Communications between the Bahá’í World Center and the rest of the Bahá’í world have increasingly moved from letters and cablegrams to newer electronic forms such as electronic mail, entailing a corresponding increase in use of electronic data storage and retrieval.
During the last quarter of the twentieth century, the Bahá’í World Center entered a new stage in its development. Several new buildings were erected. The first was the Seat of the Universal House of Justice; ground was broken in 1975, and the building was occupied in January 1983. The next major construction on Mount Carmel occurred in the period 1990–2001, with completion between 1999 and 2001 of the buildings for the International Teaching Center and the Center for the Study of the Texts; an extension to the International Bahá’í Archives Building; landscaped Terraces of the Shrine of the Báb, which stretch from the foot of Mount Carmel to its crest; and an Office of Public Information building, located under Terrace 11, that includes a Visitor Information Center.
On 22–23 May 2001, over four thousand people—Bahá’ís and guests from 180 countries, dignitaries from Israel, international diplomats, and representatives of the news media—attended ceremonies marking the opening to the public of the Terraces on Mount Carmel. Free guided tours, which began in June 2001, are staffed by multi-ethnic guides trained by the Beit Hagefen Arab-Jewish Cultural Center and by Bahá’í volunteer workers. In March 2009, to accommodate the half million people who visit the Bahá’í gardens in both Acre and Haifa annually, the Bahá’í International Community launched an informational website for visitors (See: The Bahá’í Gardens ) and announced expanded tour options.
In the vicinity of the Shrine of the Báb, a Pilgrim Reception Center opened in 2000. Located in two historic buildings that were restored and remodeled, the complex accommodates activities by increased numbers of pilgrims. At Bahjí, a Pilgrim Facilities and Visitor’s Center was built in 2001.
In late 2008 work began on restoration and updating of the Shrine of the Báb. The four-year project, which includes earthquake reinforcement and various renovations, will not alter the building's appearance. Although the shrine will be enclosed in scaffolding and covered in canvas sheeting for approximately two years, it will remain open to pilgrims and visitors except for brief periods.
In July 2008 the UNESCO World Heritage Committee chose to add the Bahá’í Holy Places in Haifa and Western Galilee to the World Heritage List of properties of "outstanding universal value" in the world's cultural and natural heritage.
Bahá’u’lláh describes the land to which He was banished thus: "This Holy Land hath been mentioned and extolled in all the sacred Scriptures. In it have appeared the Prophets of God and His chosen Ones. . . . This is the promised Land in which He Who is the Revelation of God was destined to be made manifest. . . . the Land of unfading splendor. Whatever hath come to pass in this Day hath been foretold in the Scriptures of old."11 Shoghi Effendi describes it as "the Land promised by God to Abraham, sanctified by the Revelation of Moses, honored by the lives and labors of the Hebrew patriarchs, judges, kings and prophets, revered as the cradle of Christianity, and as the place where Zoroaster . . . 'held converse with some of the Prophets of Israel,' and associated by Islám with the Apostle’s night-journey . . . to the throne of the Almighty."12
Shoghi Effendi stresses the significance of both the spiritual and administrative world centers of the Bahá’í Faith having been permanently fixed in the Acre–Haifa area in the Holy Land. The most important location is the Shrine of Bahá’u’lláh, the qiblih of the Bahá’í world. Second in spiritual importance is the Shrine of the Báb, situated on Mount Carmel, the "Mountain of God." Shoghi Effendi describes the remains of the Báb as being at the center of "nine concentric circles," the outermost of which is the entire planet, the next being the Holy Land, then Mount Carmel, the Bahá’í properties on Mount Carmel, the gardens and terraces that enclose the Shrine of the Báb, the superstructure of the Shrine itself, the original Shrine built by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, the vault under the central room of the Shrine, and the alabaster sarcophagus in which the remains of the Báb lie.13 The presence of the tombs of the sister, brother, and mother of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá in the Monument Gardens adjacent to the Shrine of the Báb "incalculably reinforces the spiritual potencies of that consecrated Spot,"14 which is "designated by Bahá’u’lláh Himself" as "the seat of God’s throne."15 The world administrative institutions of the Bahá’í Faith are, thus, inextricably linked with sites of great spiritual significance.
In May 2001 the Universal House of Justice, addressing the Bahá’ís gathered in Haifa for the opening of the Terraces of the Shrine of the Báb, linked the developments on Mount Carmel with a new stage in the Bahá’í Faith’s and humanity’s evolution:
The majestic buildings that now stand . . . on the slope of the Mountain of God, together with the magnificent flight of garden terraces that embrace the Shrine of the Báb . . . offer timeless witness to the fact that the followers of Bahá’u’lláh have successfully laid the foundations of a worldwide community transcending all differences that divide the human race, and have brought into existence the principal institutions of a unique and unassailable Administrative Order that shapes this community’s life. In the transformation that has taken place on Mount Carmel, the Bahá’í Cause emerges as a visible and compelling reality on the global stage, as the focal center of forces that will, in God’s good time, bring about the reconstruction of society, and as a mystic source of spiritual renewal for all who turn to it.16
Author: Moojan Momen
1. Bahá’u’lláh, The Kitáb-i-Aqdas: The Most Holy Book, 1st pocket-size ed. (Wilmette, IL, USA: Bahá’í Publishing Trust, 1993, 2005 printing) ¶137: 68.
2. Tarázu’lláh Samandarí, Moments with Bahá’u’lláh: Memoirs of the Hand of the Cause of God Tarázu’lláh Samandarí, trans. Mehdi Samandari and Marzieh Gail (Los Angeles: Kalimát, 1995) 52.
3. Erection of the mausoleum has been called "the greatest victory" of the early years of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s ministry. See Century of Light, prepared under the direction of the Universal House of Justice (Wilmette, IL, USA: Bahá’í Publishing Trust, 2001, 2003 printing) 13.
4. Rúhíyyih Rabbani, The Priceless Pearl, 2nd ed. (Oakham, U.K.: Bahá’í Publishing, 2000) 55–56, 247. The participants in the consultation included Lady (Sara Louisa) Blomfield, Emogene Hoagg, Ethel Rosenberg, Roy Wilhelm, Mountfort Mills, Mason Remey, Laura and Hippolyte Dreyfus-Barney, Consul and Alice Schwarz, and Wellesley Tudor Pole.
5. Rúhíyyih Rabbani, Priceless Pearl 248.
7. Shoghi Effendi, Bahá’í Administration: Selected Messages, 1922–1932, 1974 ed. (Wilmette, IL, USA: Bahá’í Publishing Trust, 1974, 1998 printing) 63.
8. Shoghi Effendi, Messages to Canada, 2nd ed. (Thornhill, ON, Can.: Bahá’í Canada, 1999) 141.
9. Shoghi Effendi, Messages to the Bahá’í World, 1950–1957 (Wilmette, IL, USA: Bahá’í Publishing Trust, 1971, 1999 printing) 7–8.
10. For information on the 1957–63 interregnum, see The Ministry of the Custodians, 1957–1963: An Account of the Stewardship of the Hands of the Cause (Haifa: Bahá’í World Centre, 1992, 1997 printing with corr.).
11. Bahá’u’lláh, Gleanings from the Writings of Bahá’u’lláh, trans. Shoghi Effendi, 1st pocket-size ed. (Wilmette, IL, USA: Bahá’í Publishing Trust, 1983, 2005 printing) 164: 344.
12. Shoghi Effendi, God Passes By, new ed. (Wilmette, IL, USA: Bahá’í Publishing Trust, 1974, 2004 printing) 183.
13. Shoghi Effendi, Citadel of Faith: Messages to America 1947–1957 (Wilmette, IL, USA: Bahá’í Publishing Trust, 1965, 1999 printing) 95–96.
14. Shoghi Effendi, This Decisive Hour: Messages from Shoghi Effendi to the North American Bahá’ís, 1932–1946 (Wilmette, IL, USA: Bahá’í Publishing Trust, 2002) 64.6: 46.
15. Shoghi Effendi, God Passes By 348.
16. Universal House of Justice, letter to the Bahá’ís gathered for the events marking the completion of the Mount Carmel Projects, 24 May 2001, http://www.infonet.st-johns.nf.ca/bahai/24May.html (accessed 14 Jan. 2009).
Bahá’u’lláh’s Tablet of Carmel (Lawh-i-Karmil), regarded as the charter for the development of the Bahá’í World Center, is published in Tablets of Bahá’u’lláh Revealed after the Kitáb-i-Aqdas, comp. Research Department of the Universal House of Justice, trans. Habib Taherzadeh, 1st pocket-size ed. (Wilmette, IL, USA: Bahá’í Publishing Trust, 1988, 2005 printing) 1: 3–5, and in Gleanings from the Writings of Bahá’u’lláh 11: 14–17.
A comprehensive volume on the history and development of the Bahá’í World Center is David S. Ruhe, Door of Hope: The Bahá’í Faith in the Holy Land, 2nd rev. ed. (Oxford: George Ronald, 2001). Much information on the development of the Bahá’í World Center is also included in Rúhíyyih Rabbani, The Priceless Pearl.
Accounts of the development of the Bahá’í World Center up to 1992 are found mainly in the "International Survey of Current Bahá’í Activities" section of a number of Bahá’í World volumes (original series), beginning with vol. 4: 1930–32 (New York: Bahá’í Publishing Committee, 1933) and concluding with vol. 20: 1986–92 (Haifa: Bahá’í World Centre, 1998) 120–29, 133–35. In several of these volumes, relevant accounts and topical articles are also included in another section entitled "The World Order of Bahá’u’lláh"—for example, Husayn Amánat, "The Permanent Seat of the Universal House of Justice," The Bahá’í World, vol. 16: 1973–76 (Haifa: Bahá’í World Centre, 1978) 399–404. In the original series of Bahá’í World volumes, material on aspects of the Bahá’í World Center can also be found occasionally in other sections, including "The Completion of the Construction of the Sepulcher of the Báb in the Holy Land, 1953," The Bahá’í World, vol. 12: 1950–54 (Wilmette, IL, USA: Bahá’í Publishing Trust, 1956) 235–52; and Paul Haney’s "The World Centre of the Bahá’í Faith—Its Supreme Administrative Importance," The Bahá’í World, vol. 14: 1963–68 (Haifa: The Universal House of Justice, 1974) 433–38. Since 1992, the new series of annual Bahá’í World volumes has included a section entitled "Mount Carmel Projects" that summarizes progress during the year—for example, "Mount Carmel Projects: Progress 1996–97," The Bahá’í World, 1996–97: An International Record (Haifa: Bahá’í World Centre, 1998) 115–24. Information about the Bahá’í World Center is available online at Bahá’í International Community, "Bahá’í World Centre," http://www.bahai.org/dir/bwc (accessed 14 Jan. 2009), and "The Bahá’í Gardens," http://www.ganbahai.org.il/en/ (accessed 19 Mar. 2009), and in reports published by the Bahá’í World News Service, such as http://news.bahai.org/story/684 , regarding restoration of the Shrine of the Báb (accessed 2 January 2009), and http://news.bahai.org/story/705 (accessed 19 Mar. 2009), regarding visiting the Bahá’í sites on Mount Carmel and at Bahjí.
The late John Wade provided invaluable assistance with early drafts of this article. Information concerning stipends for Ottoman prisoners was received from Neçati Alkan and from Fikret Adanir, Faculty of History, History of Southeastern Europe, Ruhr University Bochum, Germany.
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Bruno Claessens
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Tag Archives: Senufo
A rediscovered Senufo staff
Image courtesy of Anita J. Glaze, 1969.
In 1969, Anita J. Glaze took the above field-photo of a Senufo staff in Ivory Coast. It was published recently in Bernard de Grunne’s catalogue on the subject, Senufo Champion Cultivator Staffs – which is freely available online here (p. 32). Unfortunately no additional information about the place, owner or carver is mentioned.
Last week, the above staff was offered for sale at Sotheby’s Paris (info). Apparently the staff left Ivory Coast not long after Anita J. Glaze photographed it, since according to Sotheby’s it was already owned by Harvery T. Menist ca. 1968. Although the field-photo is a bit blurry, details such as the red fibers and presence of cowrie strings make it clear this is one and the same staff.
I discovered two more staffs that are possibly carved by the same sculptor – only the angle between the upper and lower arm is different. A nice detail is how the carver omitted the two front legs of the stool the woman is sitting on, carving only the legs of the figure while maintaining the balance of the stool.
Left: published in Afrikanische Kunst. Düsseldorf: Galerie Simonis, n.d. & right: published in: Sotheby’s, New York, 14 November 1995. Lot 64.
ps the elaborate hairdo of the female figure crowning this staff in facts reflects an existing Senufo hairstyle – as can be seen on the beautiful field-photo below.
Senufo woman. Published in: Himmelheber (Hans), “Negerkunst und Negerkünstler”, Braunschweig: Klinkhardt & Biermann, 1960:64, #53 (top left).
This entry was posted in Objects, Research and tagged Senufo on December 7, 2015 by admin.
A rediscovered Senufo figure from the Helena Rubinstein collection
An important momentum in the appreciation of African art was the sale of the Helena Rubinstein collection by Parke-Bernet Galleries Inc. in April 1966. The unprecedented prices paid for the objects from her collection would radically alter the commercial value of African art. Ever since, and even more since the 2014 exhibition dedicated to her (info here & here), objects coming from her collection have been highly sought after. Last weekend, one of them popped up in an small US estate auction. An attentive collector discovered it on the above interior photo and was able to acquire it at a fair price. A wonderful detail is that after being cherished so long by the most important female collector of the 20th century, it will now be treasured again by another female collector, a species of which there are far too few.
This entry was posted in Objects and tagged Senufo on September 21, 2015 by admin.
Object of the day: a rediscovered Senufo staff from the Master of the spade-shaped hands
Senufo ceremonial staff. Height: 90,5 cm. Photo by Ferry Herrebrugh. Image courtesy of Rutger & Irene der Kinderen, The Netherlands.
Last year I had the pleasure to see the above staff while visiting a private collection in The Netherlands. The current owner acquired this masterpiece early 2014. Only a few weeks later he encountered an old black/white picture of his staff in the new exhibition catalogue of the Rietberg Museum: Afrikanische Meister – Kunst der Elfenbeinkuste (p. 168, fig. 218). I don’t need to explain the collector suddenly was even more happy with his last acquisition. Listed as ‘current location unknown’, the staff was last ‘seen’ when Schädler published it in 1973 (Afrikanische Kunst in Deutschen Privatesammlungen, p. 74) – it was his picture that was used in the 2014 catalogue.
After having spend more than 30 years hidden away, the staff will be on view to the public from 14 April until 26 July 2015, at the last stop of the traveling exhibition, now dubbed Les Maïtres de la Sculpture de Côte d’Ivoire, at the Musée du quai Brainly in Paris. I’m happy to already share some pictures of it here.
Photo by Ferry Herrebrugh. Image courtesy of Rutger & Irene der Kinderen, The Netherlands.
Clearly this staff from the Korhogo district doesn’t resemble the more common Senufo staffs handed out to most productive farmers; possibly it served as an emblem of dignity. The zoomorphic figures on top most likely represent a chameleon and a bird. The group of figures, which is equally fascinating seen from any angle, is held in tension buy a skillful balance of surface areas, an intriguing interplay of lines and an elusive air of mystery. Frequent use has left a shiny, deep, reddish-brown patina at the centre of the staff, and the group of figures is covered with the remains of numerous sacrifices.
As the above profile of the figure shows this staff was sculpted by a master carver. Due to the specific shape of his hands, he was nicknamed the ‘Master of the Spade-Shaped Hands’. A helmet mask (at least it looks like one) from a private Belgian collection can also be attributed to this artist – who is also sometimes called ‘The shovel shaped hands Master’. An interesting detail is that they share their earliest European provenance: Robert Duperrier. A third object from this sculptor is a small figure in the collection of the Rietberg Museum – also illustrated below. In my humble opinion the style of this artist is quintessentially Senufo; I don’t think it can get much better than this.
Helmet mask. Height: 45,9 cm. Private Collection. Image courtesy of Musée Dapper.
Senufo figure. Height: 18 cm. Image courtesy of the Rietberg Museum.
This entry was posted in Objects, Research and tagged Senufo on February 27, 2015 by admin.
“Senufo: Art and Identity in West Africa” at The Cleveland Museum of Art: the app
Images courtesy of The Cleveland Museum of Art.
Talking about innovative curatorial practices, the Cleveland Museum of Art has just announced the release of its first special exhibition mobile application: “CMA Senufo”, designed for the upcoming Senufo: Art and Identity in West Africa, opening Feb. 22.
Through the presentation of insightful commentary, high-resolution imagery and video, “CMA Senufo” encourages a closer look at some of the exhibition’s individual objects and the story behind Senufo-speaking artists and patrons. The app is free and now available for iPhones through the Apple iTunes App Store. From home, you can enjoy a video preview with the museum’s Curator of African Art, Constantine Petridis, and find information for planning a museum visit. When you visit the exhibition and connect with the museum’s wifi network, the app will become your tour guide and offer other information (such as a multimedia tour featuring interviews with the curator, African art scholars and artists). The app also provides an interactive list of related events, gallery tours and information about the Cleveland Museum of Art. You need an Iphone of course; however, the museum will provide a limited number of iPod Touches free of charge for visitors without one.
You can read more about the development of this app here. To quote CMA’s director William M. Griswold: “The Cleveland Museum of Art takes the development of cutting-edge technologies and interpretive materials to the next level with this exhibition app”. “The new technology behind our ‘CMA Senufo’ app provides visitors exclusive content, and allows visitors to experience this exhibition in ways not possible before.” We can only applaud the introduction of new technologies into the museum experience – however, I still prefer to spend my time looking at the display cases instead of staring at my phone.
ps below the preview of the exhibition that is featured on the app.
This entry was posted in Museums, News and tagged Senufo on February 12, 2015 by admin.
Sotheby’s “In Pursuit of Beauty: The Myron Kunin Collection of African Art” catalogue online
Senufo figure (lot 48). Height: 92 cm. Image courtesy of Sotheby’s.
The long anticipated catalogue of Sotheby’s sale of the Myron Kunin collection is now available online here. For the occasion, Sotheby’s also has created two short videos, discussing both the man as his collection; you can view them here. The pre-sale exhibition opens in New York on 8 November; the sale is on 11 November 2014.
This entry was posted in Auctions, News and tagged Senufo on October 17, 2014 by admin.
“Senufo: Art, History, and Style in West Africa” at The Cleveland Museum of Art (2015)
Senufo bird. Height: 40,6 cm. Image courtesy of the Africarium Collection.
Coming up February next year at the The Cleveland Museum of Art, Senufo: Art, History, and Style in West Africa will examine how individuals such as dealers, collectors and artists and the circulation of objects among continents contributed to the emergence and definition of the Senufo style as we know it. It will also examine how the creativity of artists and the sponsorship of patrons in different times and places have varied, thereby resulting in a rich, dynamic, and diverse corpus.
Artists and patrons in Korhogo and nearby Senufo communities, as well as in towns and cities peripheral to that center, have long produced visually engaging forms that do not necessarily fit within the canonical Senufo style. The exhibition will demonstrate that innovative artistic production takes place in an artistic center as well as in areas deemed peripheral to and less significant than that center.
The exhibition will reconsider previous exhibitions of Senufo art by tracing 20th-century development of the Senufo style. It will broaden the visual scope of Senufo art and explore multiple possibilities for referring to the art as “Senufo” rather than contribute to a history of efforts to fine-tune the parameters of a singular and seemingly unchanging style. Historical documentation and research conducted in the last two decades by scholars of Africa, Europe, and North America will inform the exhibition by highlighting how the art of Senufo artists and Senufo patrons vary.
The exhibition will run from February 22 to Sunday, May 31, 2015. The accompanying catalogue will be written by Susan Elizabeth Gagliardi – who did her Ph.D. on the Senufo at the University of California. The selection of objects was made by Constantine Petridis, curator of African Art at the Cleveland Museum of Art. Petridis himself is currently in the process of transforming his dissertation on the arts of the Luluwa into a book on the subject – something else to look forward to.
This entry was posted in Exhibtions, Museums, News and tagged Senufo on September 25, 2014 by admin.
Bernard de Grunne’s Senufo champion cultivator staffs at TEFAF, 2014
As always, Bernard de Grunne had made the effort to prepare a special themed exhibition for TEFAF. This year a presentation of 13 Senufo tefalipitya or ‘champion cultivator staffs’ took place. You can view the catalogue on de Grunne’s recently redesigned website, here. Highlights of his booth at Tefaf was the Bamana chiwara illustrated below. Extremely interesting was a big bronze antelope. Clearly an archeological find, this important piece was listed as “Djenne” (Inland Niger Delta), but with such ancient objects that just seems an arbitrary classification to me. Click here for a related example sold by Sotheby’s in 2010.
This entry was posted in Fairs and tagged Bamana, Senufo on March 21, 2014 by admin.
Auction review: Christie’s Paris – June 19, 2013
The June 19, 2013 auction at Christie’s had a couple of major museum quality objects, such as the Baga snake on the front cover, but it also has a wide range of interesting and good works that carried very reasonable estimates. 79 of the 132 objects (or 60 %) were sold. With a sale total (including buyer’s premium) of € 4,723.755,- for the 79 sold lots, it equalled Sotheby’s with a total of € 3,475.050,- for 56 lots with the average price/lot (ca. € 60K). Seen the intensified competition between the two auction houses, a praiseworthy result – but not a success.
Objects from the Celeste and Armand Bartos collection offered a couple of great opportunities for connoisseurs with a bit of money. My personal favourite was the Senufo bird (pictured above). Estimated at € 20-30K, it sold to a private collector for only € 32K. Its strong lines and abstraction for me made it the best example of the Bartos’s refined taste. In the catalogue we read:
In the assemblage of the pure forms seen on the Bartos Senufo bird – the oval in high relief upon a square – surmounted by the curved, tapering head offers the essential spirit of the gliding bird. It is clear in this sculpture the inspiration of modern artists, like Brancusi or Jean Arp, in the realization of many of their sculptures.
Clearly appealing to their sophisticated feeling for line and form, the Senufo bird held a prominent place for many years in the Bartos’s collection. In the early 1960’s we see it near Miro’s Le Port (1945) which they acquired from Pierre Matisse and juxtaposed to Arp’s polished bronze (x) tbc. Later, the Senufo bird could be found prominently in their foyer, next to Noguchi’s Untitled (1968) in stone and wood – always the first piece they saw when they entered their home.
The biggest suprise from the Bartos collection (and in the sale alltogether) was the squatting Dogon figure. Estimated between € 30-50K, it realized a record price of € 601K selling to a collector from Qatar. Everybody predicted a strong result for this exquisite miniature, but this result was clearly beyond expectations. Other highlights from the Bartos collection were a Kongo figure selling for € 97K (though mainly covered with European nails), a rare Bamana staff (€ 16K) and a Fang head exhibited in New York in 1935 (€ 337K). The centerpiece of their small collection was of course the Baga snake, which tripled its lower estimate, selling for € 2,337.500,-. In a recent mailing Christie’s advertised this result as a “world auction record for a Baga work”, apparently forgetting the Baga serpent from the Dinhofer collection that was sold by Sotheby’s NY for 3,3 million dollars in 2008 (currently € 2,5 million). Nevertheless, they do mention it in the catalogue note:
The majority of exceptional examples among these sculptures, the Bartos serpent among them, were collected by Hélène and Henri Kamer in the 1950s, and are now held in the greatest museums in the world. Among the eight snakes collected by the Kamers are: one belonging to the Musée du Quai Branly, now exhibited in the Pavillon des Sessions (Louvre, Paris, 71.1989.49.1), it was given to the museum by Jacques Lazard under Hélène (Kamer) Leloup’s instigation; another one from the Menil Collection in Houston (V9009), two other examples from the Metropolitan Museum of New York (1978.206.101 and 1978.412.339) formerly in the Rockefeller collection, another snake sold by Leloup to the American director, John Huston, and finally, the one formerly part of the Pierre Matisse collection, now in a private collection (see Sotheby’s, 16 May 2008, lot 58). For other similar snakes, see: the Geneva Barbier-Mueller Museum figure; the Cleveland Museum of Art example (1960.37) published in Robbins and Nooter (1989 fig.247); and the Rietberg Museum figure in Zurich, acquired from Emil Storrer.
Hélène Leloup recently recalled the specific circumstances under which she collected the Bartos serpent: When she arrived in Guinea in 1957, she and Henri Kamer settled in Boke. Over the course of 10 days she visited the Baga and Nalu territories. Searching for snakes. The Bartos snake was found toward the end of 1957 in a Guinea village then referred to as Victoria, today Kanfarandé. At the time, because it is situated at the mouth of the Rio Nuez River, this village had different names depending of the ethnical origin of the speakers. At low tide, she went via canoe up the river, which was bordered by mangroves, and she could see frightened crocodiles were escaping and dashing into the water. The return was very dangerous as the tide was high, and the waves became stronger causing the canoe to heave to and fro as it was very heavy with passengers – both objects and people (Leloup, personal communication, Paris, March 27, 2013).
A second private collection offered in this sale, from the American performer Andy Williams, didn’t bring as much suprises. The Igbo couple for example was sold for half the estimate (€ 47K) – probably due to its post-1920 creation date. From the collection of the Art Institute of Chicago a Baga headdress (lot 61), estimated at € 400-800K, failed to sell. Both objects illustrate that the dedication of several pages in the auction catalogue to one specific lot (eight for the Baga!) doesn’t always pay off. The six pages praising the Epstein Dogon figure (lot 93, est. € 300-500K) also didn’t help. Two last important objects that remained unsold were the Bahan royal commemorative group (lot 122, est. € 250-350K) and the Ndengse figure (lot 127, est. € 150-250K). For me, this indicates the current markets concentration on esthetics rather than history and provenance.
(all images courtesy of Christie’s)
This entry was posted in Auctions and tagged Dogon, Senufo on June 30, 2013 by admin.
Catalog online: Christie’s, SPLENDORS, Paris, 30 October 2019
Catalog online: Christie’s, PARIS AVANT-GARDE, 17 October 2019
Save the date(s): Christie’s fall sales of African, Oceanic and North-American Art
Auction alert: Christie’s, Art of Africa – Masterworks, New York, May 14, 2019
The Lost Gods of Easter Island by David Attenborough (2000)
Ashanti Bamana Bamun Bangala Baule Benin Boa Chokwe Dan Djenne Dogon Fang Field-photo Fon Guro Hemba Ibibio Igbo Kongo Kota Kuba Lega Lobi Luba Luba-Shankadi Luluwa Lwena Mangbetu Mbembe Mende Moba Mossi Nok Nupe Pende Senufo Shona Songye Suku Teke Vili Yaka Yombe Yoruba Zande
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A New Story for You + 2 Giveaways
It’s Launch Day for Moonlight Over Manhattan, and I’m excited to bring you this heartwarming holiday novella set in New York City! Did you know I live only one hour from NYC? I loved including some special Thanksgiving and Christmas events in this story.
Here’s a description: When Sarah Montgomery, an efficient professional organizer meets Justin Latimer, a carefree children’s poet, romantic sparks fly, but misunderstandings make their relationship challenging. Do opposites truly attract, or will their differences pull them apart? Can their faith help them see things more clearly and lead them toward lasting love?
This touching story will inspire you and lift your spirit this holiday season. To purchase a copy, visit my website for links to your favorite eBook retailer, and keep reading for information about two special giveaways!
Giveaway Number One: You could win a Welcome to New York Gift bag, and eBook copy of Moonlight Over Manhattan, a bottle of Moonlight Path Fragrance, and a cute makeup travel organizer bag, which sounds like something my heroine would love! Sign up for my email newsletter (box at the top of the page on the right) and leave a comment below to enter this giveaway. If you’re already a newsletter subscriber you can mention that in your comment. If you are reading this post on GoodReads or in an email, please visit my website to enter the giveaway. I’ll choose a winner Sunday, October 16th at 9:00 PM Eastern, then email the winner. Keep reading for another giveaway!
Giveaway Number Two: I’ve teamed up with more than 40 fantastic inspirational contemporary romance authors to give away a great collection of eBooks pictured below, plus a Kindle Fire to one lucky winner! You can win a copy of Moonlight Over Manhattan plus books from Susan May Warren, DiAnn Mills, Ruth Logan Herne, Julie Lessman and many others. This giveaway runs through Monday, October 17th. Enter by clicking this link: http://bit.ly/contemp-inspy
This entry was posted in Uncategorized by Carrie Turansky. Bookmark the permalink.
170 thoughts on “A New Story for You + 2 Giveaways”
Melissa Henderson on October 10, 2016 at 11:27 am said:
Already a subscriber to your newsletter. Love this story! 🙂
Rebecca Tellez on October 10, 2016 at 12:07 pm said:
Already a subscriber to your Newsletter. Excited to read it after I finish Surrendered Hearts, which I am really enjoying.
Cori on October 10, 2016 at 12:14 pm said:
I’m already a newsletter subscriber. I would love to win and love NYC!
Ellen Cranstoun on October 10, 2016 at 12:18 pm said:
I’m already a newsletter subscriber and would like to be entered for a prize! Can’t wait to read this book on my Kindle.
Rachel Dixon on October 10, 2016 at 12:28 pm said:
Already subscribe. Congrats! And happy release day!!!
Anne Payne on October 10, 2016 at 12:37 pm said:
Congratulations, Carrie! The cover is beautiful. I’m looking forward to reading Moonlight Over Manhattan. I am already an email subscriber. 🙂
Beth Gillihan on October 10, 2016 at 12:46 pm said:
I am already a subscriber. Congrats!
Beckie on October 10, 2016 at 12:57 pm said:
already a subscriber!
kim hansen on October 10, 2016 at 12:58 pm said:
I already get your newsletter. Cool giveaways.
Anne Rightler on October 10, 2016 at 12:59 pm said:
It was a fun book to read and the cover is just stunning! The giveaway sounds fantastic. Thank you for sharing! Here’s hoping to be a winner!
Already subscribe to your newsletter (forgot to mention that!)
Stephanie H. on October 10, 2016 at 1:00 pm said:
I am already an email subscriber and I can’t wait to read your new book.Thanks for the amazing giveaway!
Kari on October 10, 2016 at 1:00 pm said:
Already a subscriber, I believe! Book looks so good!!
Diane Blaser on October 10, 2016 at 1:00 pm said:
I’m already a fan and a newsletter subscriber and I so appreciate the opportunity to win your fabulous giveaway! Thank you!
Stacey Jones on October 10, 2016 at 1:01 pm said:
Hi Carrie, I’m already a subscriber, and Moonlight Over Manhattan downloaded to my kindle this morning (YAY!); however, I would love to be entered into your giveaway. Thanks!
Margaret on October 10, 2016 at 1:02 pm said:
Looking forward to reading your books.
Debbie Nitsche on October 10, 2016 at 1:03 pm said:
Hi Carrie! I’m already a subscriber. Would L O V E to win this give away! Thank you and God Bless!
Jean Kincaid on October 10, 2016 at 1:05 pm said:
Already a subscriber but happy, happy to read any of your books. Have a great day.
Lori Weller on October 10, 2016 at 1:05 pm said:
Already subscribed. Looking forwars to reading your book!
Bonnieandtim@yahoo.com on October 10, 2016 at 1:09 pm said:
I’ve never had the opportunity to visit New York, so enjoy reading stories that make me feel like I am there. I’m hoping to win, and experience something new! Thanks.
Carol Paine on October 10, 2016 at 1:10 pm said:
Looking forward to reading the story.
Connie Fischer on October 10, 2016 at 1:11 pm said:
I have been a subscriber for quite some time now. In addition, I read and review your books. They are awesome. I am especially drawn to them because they are clean and wholesome. That’s hard to find these days in the reading world.
Thanks for your giveaway. Now, go forth and make someone very happy.
Kim on October 10, 2016 at 1:13 pm said:
Already a newsletter subscriber. This sounds like a good book! Thanks for a chance!
Becky B on October 10, 2016 at 1:15 pm said:
I am a subscriber to your newsletter! What lovely prize packages! Thank you for the chance!!
Renee Jackson on October 10, 2016 at 1:15 pm said:
I already am a subscriber. Though I would love to win and read this book!
Stephanie Allen on October 10, 2016 at 1:15 pm said:
This is an amazing giveaway. Thanks for the opportunity. I am already subscribed to newsletter. Have A Wonderful Day!!!
Angi on October 10, 2016 at 1:22 pm said:
I am already a newsletter subscriber. Thank you for the chance!
Lillian Crouse on October 10, 2016 at 1:25 pm said:
I already receive your newsletter. That is how I found out about this neat giveaway. Sounds like a great book!
Pam Zarate on October 10, 2016 at 1:26 pm said:
I’ve been to New York once and loved it.
Would love to win your book
Thank you for the opportunity to win
Linda Scarchuk on October 10, 2016 at 1:26 pm said:
I am already a subscriber…what a wonderful giveaway…I would love to spend the Holidays in NY City with your book! Thank you for the chance…
Brenda Williams on October 10, 2016 at 1:26 pm said:
Sounds so exciting! Moonlight over Manhattan… very romantic.
Haley J.S. on October 10, 2016 at 1:28 pm said:
Ohh! Sounds super exciting! (And, yes, I am already a subscriber!)
Beverly Laude on October 10, 2016 at 1:30 pm said:
Already subscribed. Thanks & looking forward to this book!
Suzanne Sellner on October 10, 2016 at 1:31 pm said:
I’m already a subscriber to your newsletter and love reading your books. I have memories of spending a Christmas in New York City and look forward to reading your latest release.
Shelley on October 10, 2016 at 1:35 pm said:
already a subscriber.
Bonnie Roof on October 10, 2016 at 1:37 pm said:
Congrats, Carrie – I’m looking forward to reading this beautiful contemporary romance novella from you and love that there are Thanksgiving and Christmas events included!! Thanks for the wonderful giveaway opportunities – I’ve shared this post, the novella promo from Amazon, and the giveaway promo from BookSweeps!
I’m already a newsletter subscriber.
Joan Arning on October 10, 2016 at 1:37 pm said:
Already a subscriber! Although I like living in a rural area, it would be nice to be able to visit New York City.
Cecilia Lynn on October 10, 2016 at 1:39 pm said:
Great giveaway package.
Mary B. on October 10, 2016 at 1:40 pm said:
Would love to win a copy of your book!!
I already subscribe to your newsletter.
Debbie Clatterbuck on October 10, 2016 at 1:48 pm said:
I’m already a subscriber to your newsletter. What fabulous giveaways. I sure hope I win one. Thanks for the giveaways and good luck everyone.
Diane Tatum on October 10, 2016 at 1:48 pm said:
Already a newsletter subscriber! Sign me up for the giveaway! Congrats on another publication.
Connie Scruggs on October 10, 2016 at 1:53 pm said:
I am a subscriber to your newsletter. The new book sounds great, and what a fun prize package!
Chelsey on October 10, 2016 at 1:53 pm said:
Already a newsletter subscriber as well. Fun giveaway, I hope I win one!
Susan on October 10, 2016 at 1:53 pm said:
Also a subscriber. Excited to read your new book.
Becky shapiro on October 10, 2016 at 2:00 pm said:
I can’t wait to read this book, my hubby and I were in Manhattan just a couple weeks ago. What an amazing place! Oh, and I think I am already a subscriber but re-signed up just incase.
Alyssa Weinzapfel on October 10, 2016 at 2:00 pm said:
Thought I was already, but signed up in case. Thanks for the opportunity.
Amanda T. on October 10, 2016 at 2:03 pm said:
Already a newsletter subscriber. What a fun giveaway!
Susan P on October 10, 2016 at 2:08 pm said:
Already a subscriber!! Thank you, Carrie. 🙂
clynsg on October 10, 2016 at 2:08 pm said:
Already a subscriber. Those look nice!
Patricia DeMyda on October 10, 2016 at 2:09 pm said:
Congratulations!! I am already a subscriber.
Charlotte on October 10, 2016 at 2:10 pm said:
Another subscriber here, Carrie!
Thanks for the giveaeay!
Cecily on October 10, 2016 at 2:12 pm said:
I am a subscriber. I attended New York University, so this would be a fun package. ?
Bhriv on October 10, 2016 at 2:20 pm said:
Already a subscriber. What a great sounding book and an awesome giveaway! Looking forward to reading Moonlight over Manhattan! Thanks for the opportunity for the giveaway!
Gail Hollingsworth on October 10, 2016 at 2:21 pm said:
I’m a subscriber and I would love this New York package. We were scheduled this week to leave on a first time trip to New York with friends. We had to cancel at the last minute because my husbands dad got deathly sick and is still recooperating in the hospital. I probably will never get a chance again for a trip like this but I’d be estatic if I happened to win.
Jonna Marsh on October 10, 2016 at 2:29 pm said:
I subscribed! Would love to win this!
Judi Imperato on October 10, 2016 at 2:30 pm said:
Hi Carrie, I am currently an email newsletter subscriber of yours, but I would love to win this giveaway. Thank you for the opportunity!
Mary Weiser on October 10, 2016 at 2:30 pm said:
Already a subscriber love the giveaway ?
Jonella Moore on October 10, 2016 at 2:39 pm said:
Already a subscriber ❤️
Thanks for this unique giveaway! ????
Julie on October 10, 2016 at 2:39 pm said:
I am already a subscriber
Julie Smith on October 10, 2016 at 2:42 pm said:
I already subscribe to your newsletter. Thank you for offering this cute giveaway.
Winnie Thomas on October 10, 2016 at 2:54 pm said:
What a fun giveaway! I’m already a subscriber to your newsletter. Congrats on your new release, Carrie!
Terressa T. on October 10, 2016 at 2:56 pm said:
How exciting! Your books are always so fun to read!!
(P.S. I am a newsletter subscriber)
Name on October 10, 2016 at 3:04 pm said:
I am a subscriber. This is a wonderful and generous giveaway. The book looks like my kind of book.
DebraG on October 10, 2016 at 3:05 pm said:
I subscribed but I think I may done it twice.
Dawn Schout on October 10, 2016 at 3:07 pm said:
Already a subscriber! Great prize!
Tammy Henderson on October 10, 2016 at 3:07 pm said:
I’m already a subscriber. You’re story seems very sweet. Can’t wait to read it. ???
Raechel L. on October 10, 2016 at 3:10 pm said:
Sounds like a great story! Can’t wait to read. 🙂
I’m already a newsletter subscriber – thank you!!!
Martha T. on October 10, 2016 at 3:26 pm said:
I’m a subscriber. It would be neat to win!
Danie on October 10, 2016 at 3:27 pm said:
The cover of your newest book is so beautiful! Sounds like a really good book to read.
I would love to read it.
I forgot my email address
oh.hello.hiya@gmail.com
Gay Martin on October 10, 2016 at 3:29 pm said:
I am a subscriber! Love giveaways……thanks for posting this.
Michele Hayes on October 10, 2016 at 3:29 pm said:
Already subscribe, thanks for the chance to win.
Sharon Foust on October 10, 2016 at 3:30 pm said:
Already a subscriber to your newsletter! Sounds like a fun story! I love Christmas and Christmas stories.
NameMarion on October 10, 2016 at 3:40 pm said:
Thank You for this great giveaway. The book looks very good.
Marion on October 10, 2016 at 7:18 pm said:
I subscribe to your newsletter.
Linda Horin on October 10, 2016 at 3:46 pm said:
I’m already a newsletter subscriber. Thanks for the giveaway. This book looks like a good read. I am looking forward to reading it.
Linda Syman on October 10, 2016 at 3:47 pm said:
I subscribe! Thanks for the giveaway.
NinaB on October 10, 2016 at 3:49 pm said:
I already subscribe to your newsletter. Can’t wait wait to read the book. Nice prize.
Kathryn Voss on October 10, 2016 at 3:50 pm said:
I already subscribe. Thanks for the giveaway!
Piper F on October 10, 2016 at 4:03 pm said:
Already a subscriber to your newsletter! Such an exciting giveaway! 🙂
Theresa N on October 10, 2016 at 4:11 pm said:
Already on the list. The book sounds wonderful.
Valerie Rogers on October 10, 2016 at 4:12 pm said:
Already a subscriber! Would love the giveaway! Thanks for the chance!
Tara Jones on October 10, 2016 at 4:12 pm said:
Already subscribed!!
Pam Erselius on October 10, 2016 at 4:19 pm said:
I’m a happy subscriber already. -Pam
Sarah Grace on October 10, 2016 at 4:27 pm said:
I am already a subscriber to your news letter. Theses giveaways sound so amazing!! ??
Steph J on October 10, 2016 at 4:38 pm said:
I subscribed to your newsletter. Thanks for the chance to win some great prizes.
Katherine Good on October 10, 2016 at 4:44 pm said:
Already a subscriber and would love to win this prize pack.
Lena Nelson Dooley on October 10, 2016 at 4:51 pm said:
I already subscribe to your newsletter. I’d love to win either one of the giveaways, especially the first one.
Jodi Kosary on October 10, 2016 at 5:06 pm said:
Would love to win in your giveaway and am already a subscriber.
Joye I on October 10, 2016 at 5:31 pm said:
I am already a subscriber. I enjoy reading your books.
Cynthia St. Germain on October 10, 2016 at 5:34 pm said:
I am already receiving your newsletter and I love your books.
Becky Eldredge on October 10, 2016 at 5:36 pm said:
I’m already a subscriber to the newsletters and love them! Thanks for the opportunity!
SHARON H on October 10, 2016 at 5:39 pm said:
I love the cover picture on your new book Carrie, makes you want to read it just from that alone. I’m a subscriber already and it would be exciting to win one of the giveaways!
Annie JC on October 10, 2016 at 5:54 pm said:
Already your subscriber, Carrie! Thanks! Great NYC pack!
Karen M. on October 10, 2016 at 6:04 pm said:
Already a subscriber. Great prize!
bn100 on October 10, 2016 at 6:37 pm said:
Jamie Smith on October 10, 2016 at 6:43 pm said:
Already a subscriber! Would love to win.
Sonja Nishimoto on October 10, 2016 at 6:45 pm said:
I am wondering if i scubscribed a second time, haha! Well, better safe than sorry. What a fantastic give-away. Your book looks like such a fun read. Have had one opportunity to visit New York. It was an amazing trip. I would love to do that again someday.
Jackie Wisherd on October 10, 2016 at 6:52 pm said:
I am already a subscriber. Love your books.
Diana on October 10, 2016 at 7:14 pm said:
I am already a subscriber. Thank you so much for these giveaways! I absolutely love your writing!
Carol Woodruff on October 10, 2016 at 7:16 pm said:
I already subscribe to your newsletter. The book sounds great.
Marilyn on October 10, 2016 at 7:17 pm said:
What a generous giveaway. This is a terrific prize to win. Thank you for this giveaway. I subscribe to your newsletter.
Teri Donaldson on October 10, 2016 at 7:17 pm said:
Just subscribed. You are a new author for me and I look forward to reading your books!
Karen Williams on October 10, 2016 at 7:55 pm said:
Already a subscriber. You are a new author to me so can’t wait to check out the novel. Congrats on the release
Deana Dick on October 10, 2016 at 8:00 pm said:
Congrats on the new book. Already a subscriber. My review has been posted on Amazon, Goodreads and my blog.
Kathy Osborn on October 10, 2016 at 8:07 pm said:
Congratulations ‼️‼️
I’m already a subscriber ❤️
Thanks for the chance ❤️
Judith Martinez on October 10, 2016 at 8:10 pm said:
Sounds great! I’m a subscriber.
Christine McMahon-Chase on October 10, 2016 at 8:16 pm said:
Congrats on the new release 😉 I am currently a newsletter subscriber.
Deana on October 10, 2016 at 8:41 pm said:
I’m a subscriber! And I want to win! I’m getting laid off and decided my dream job is to be a consultant in NYC, so this is perfect for me!
jennifer beck on October 10, 2016 at 8:54 pm said:
looks like a great gift bag . thanks for the chance!!!
Charlyn on October 10, 2016 at 8:56 pm said:
Subscriber who would like to win! Enjoyed a trip to Manhattan
Kristi on October 10, 2016 at 9:00 pm said:
I already receive your newsletter. I would like to enter this contest. Thank you!
Kathy on October 10, 2016 at 9:12 pm said:
Hi Carrie, Thanks for the chance to win. I look forward to reading “Moonlight Over Manhattan!”
Terry Trahan on October 10, 2016 at 9:21 pm said:
I’m already a subscriber. Thank you for the chance to win.
Sharon Bryant on October 10, 2016 at 9:32 pm said:
I am already a subscriber to your newsletter!! Great giveaway.
Conway SC.
Catherine Lemanski on October 10, 2016 at 9:55 pm said:
Please enter me in your giveaways. I am a newsletter subscriber. Thank you.
MarshaJ on October 10, 2016 at 9:55 pm said:
I’m already a subscriber! Hubby and I spent our 10th anniversary in NYC in 2008. We’ll celebrate 18 years on Monday, Oct. 17th. Wouldn’t this book be a fantastic way for me to celebrate? Thanks for the opportunity to win.
Courtney Clark on October 10, 2016 at 10:10 pm said:
I’m already a newsletter subscriber and would love to win! Thank you!
Darla on October 10, 2016 at 10:10 pm said:
Love this! Already subscribe to your newsletter
Brenda Murphree on October 10, 2016 at 10:17 pm said:
Congratulations! It’s a beautiful book! Thank you for this opportunity. I am subscribed. If I wasn’t already I am now.
BJ Marley on October 10, 2016 at 10:48 pm said:
I already get your newsletter.
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I already subscribe! Happy release day!
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Good Morning! I signed up for your newsletter today. Congrats on your release, it sounds like a great story! I have fond memories of seeing NY with my husband and friends a few years back.
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subscribed, but thought I already was. The new cover is gorgeous!!!
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I’m already a subscriber but love the sound of this giveaway! Thanks for the opportunity.
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Looks like it will be a good read love Manhattan
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I’m a newsletter subscriber! Thank you so much for this chance – I can’t wait to read this! 🙂
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I’m a subscriber – what a fun giveaway!
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I subscribed. I always enjoy your books. Would love to win.
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Signed up for the newsletter. Would love to read this book 🙂
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I’m a subscriber of your newsletter, awesome giveaway I’d the chance to win some great prizes.
The book looks and sounds great I’d love the chance to read it.
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I am already a subscriber to your newsletter. Congratulations! I can’t wait to read the book!
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Thanks for offering this giveaway!
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I’m already a subscriber! Thank you for the giveaway!
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I already subscribe. Love the sound of the new book! I’ve been to Manhattan, and had lots of fun.
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I’m already a subscriber. What a fun giveaway. Thanks.
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I’m a subscriber – thanks for the chance to win
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Great cover! And yes, I already subscribe…
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I already get your newsletter thanks for the contest its a great giveaway:)
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I LOVE reading holiday stories and Moonlight Over Manhattan sounds like a holiday delight!
I am already a subscriber to your newsletter. Thanks so much for the opportunity to win this wonderful gift package!!!
~Alison
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I’m a newsletter subscriber! Thanks!
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Congratulations Carrie! Love your books! I’m excited to read Moonlight Over Manhattan 🙂
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Congratulations Carrie! Beautiful cover.
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Just subscribed to your newsletter. What a great giveaway. This sounds like such a good book. I can’t wait to read it 😀
Beth on October 14, 2016 at 10:23 pm said:
That book looks great and my favorite fragrance is Moonlight Path!
Janneke van Hoven-Cornelisse on October 15, 2016 at 4:29 am said:
Nice ways to promote your books and to make us eager to read them.
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Already a newsletter subscriber. Would love to win, because the prize pack is probably the closest I will ever get to NYC! I would love to read your newest novella, it sounds like a great story with a fun plotline. Definitely the perfect read when I am waiting at the Dr’s or waiting to pick my kids up from school. Happy Launch month, and thanks for the opportunity!
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Just subscribed. For some reason I thought I had subscribed before, but I guess not!
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Already subscribe to your newsletter and on your Facebook page would love to be entered in both giveaways number one and number two give away thank you so much for this opportunity
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This sound like a sweet Christmas story. Thank you for the opportunity to win this giveaway! Also, I am already a newsletter subscriber.
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Hi, I am already a subscriber. This book sounds like a great book to read. I love love stories.
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I’m already a subscriber. Thank you for a fun contest.
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Really enjoy holiday stories… Not really sure why but they are my favorite – and any style: historical, modern, suspense. Your book looks like an interesting read.
– a subscriber
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I’m subscribed! 🙂
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Kimmel Racing Takes On New Season With Familiar Face
Topics: Will Kimmel, Lucas Oil Slick Mist 200
Kimmel Racing
“Father-Son Duo Ready To Shine In ARCA Season Opener”
DAYTONA BEACH, Florida (February 13, 2012) - - The original settings of Kimmel Racing have changed but the team lives on and is ready to shine as the ARCA Racing Series opens its 60th season of competition when the Lucas Oil Slick Mist 200 takes the green flag at Daytona (Fla.) International Speedway Saturday afternoon.
Will Kimmel, the son of Kimmel Racing owner Bill Kimmel will heed the leading role for the Indiana-based race team as the driver of the No. 68 Enterprise Software Development / Clarksville Schwinn Ford Fusion. For the second-time in his ARCA career, the 23-year old will grasp the high banks of the 2.5-mile superspeedway and look to ignite his 26th career start in stunning fashion.
“We’re blessed to be going to Daytona,” said Kimmel, whose holds a career-best finish of second in ARCA at Salem (Ind.) Speedway last September. “Dad (Bill) and our all-volunteer team have worked ferociously to get our No. 68 Enterprise Software Development / Clarksville Schwinn Ford Fusion ready to go for this weekend and I believe we’re more than ready. We learned a lot from the test in December and I think with the changes since then we can improve on our Daytona debut from 2009.
Despite a 18th place finish in his restrictor plate debut at “The World Center of Racing” three years ago, the team came prepared with a stout blue oval which boasted an impressive eighth place qualifying run only to be sidelined by a mid-race incident which resulted in the finish. Knowing that restrictor plate racing brings a lot of unknowns, Kimmel also knows that the chance is now for his team to shine and keep their momentum rolling for 2012.
“You cannot predict what happens at these plate races,” offered Kimmel, a former Super Late Model champion at Salem (Ind.) Speedway, his stomping grounds in his home state of Indiana. “Despite that being said, we still have a job to do. We’re going to try our best to run the full season, of course sponsorship pending. A good finish will definitely help in making a championship-run possible. Nonetheless, we’re going to Daytona with a great group of sponsors and it’s our job as a team at Kimmel Racing to put on an electrifying performance.”
With his father and ARCA champion crew chief Bill Kimmel calling the shots; Kimmel doesn’t feel the pressure of performing but rather using the bond as a chance to explode into the limelight with potentially his first career win.
“Daytona, means so much too many of those on our race team,” Kimmel sounded. “It’s a place that is magical and can bring those types of results. But, having Dad atop of the box doesn’t affect the way I drive. He believes in me and I believe in him. It’s a partnership that we both trust each other. We both know though it’s going to be a tough field by looking at the entry list, so timing will be everything and patience will be vital to the eventual outcome. We’re just thankful to be a part of the action.”
In addition to Enterprise Software Development (ESD) and Clarksville Schwinn, Kimmel Racing is thankful for the support of Crosley Radio and Ingersoll Rand who have joined the veteran ARCA organization as additional sponsors for ARCA’s version of the Super Bowl.
“I feel like we are forever indebted to every person and sponsor who is making this trip to Daytona possible,” Kimmel remarked. “We know that without them none of this would be possible.”
The Lucas Oil Slick Mist 200 at Daytona (80 laps / 200 miles) is the first of 20 events on the 2012 ARCA Racing Series presented by Menards schedule. The 49th ARCA race held at Daytona is a three-day show. Practice begins Thursday, February 16 with a four hour practice session planned from 1:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. Menards pole qualifying presented by Ansell is set for Friday, February 17 slated to begin at 2:00 p.m. A forty-five minute final practice session is etched in on Saturday, February 18th from 10:00 a.m. - 10:45 a.m. The event will take the green flag later that day shortly after 4:30 p.m. The race will be televised live on SPEED with additional race coverage including live timing and scoring and radio broadcast through the ARCA Racing Network (ARN) online at arcaracing.com. All times are local. ARCA, celebrating its 60th season in 2012 is the preamble for the highly anticipated Budweiser Shootout for the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series (NSCS) set to ignite under the lights later that night.
For more on Will Kimmel, please visit willkimmel.com.
PHOTO CAPTION: Will Kimmel, driver of the No. 68 Enterprise Software Development / Clarksville Schwinn Ford Fusion in the ARCA Racing Series presented by Menards for Kimmel Racing.
NAME: Chris Knight, Knight Motorsports Management
EMAIL: chris@chrisknightpr.com
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The stories behind the buildings, statues and other points of interest that make Manhattan fascinating.
The Corn Exchange Bank Building - 204 West 4th Street
Founded in 1853, Corn Exchange Bank had gobbled up other banking institutions like the Astor Place Bank, the Home Bank and the Washington Trust Company by 1919 when it looked to Greenwich Village as the site of a new branch. On March 19 that year The Sun reported that the bank had purchased "the property at 76 Grove street, and 7, 8, and 9 Sheridan Square" as the site of its 42nd branch. The plot, it said, "faces the new subway station of the Seventh avenue subway, and the modern and attractive Greenwich Village Theatre."
The bank building would replace the three brick buildings to the right, behind the street car in this photo. photo by Jessie Tarbox Beals, from the collection of the Museum of the City of New York
By the time of the newspaper's article The Corn Exchange bank had hired architect S. Edson Gage to design the structure. He worked with an oddly-shaped plot, more than 91-feet long on Sheridan Square (later West 4th Street) and just 15-feet on Grove Street.
Gage's post-war take on neo-Georgian gave a nod to the city's early architectural history. Faced in variegated red and gray brick laid in Flemish bond, it was trimmed in marble. The entrances were capped by bold arched pediments and the massive arched openings of the second floor wore scrolled keystones. A marble frieze and cornice separated the third story, where especially handsome carved and paneled window lintels graced the windows. Gage joined the pitched roofs of both sides, creating the illusion of a hip roof.
Originally the narrow Grove Street side was just wide enough to accommodate the side entrance. photo by Wurts Bros. from the collection of the Museum of the City of New York
Until the second half of the 20th century firms would pay their employees in cash. Workers received a pay envelope each week. It was a practice that allowed employers to coldly let a worker know he had been fired by inserting a pink slip into his pay. It also required at least one officer worker to make a bank run every week to withdrawal the large amounts of cash--making him a target for thieves.
Such was the case just before noon on August 11, 1928 when the cashier of the Arthur R. Purdy Iron and Metal Work Company on Greenwich Street walked out of the Sheridan Square branch with the company's payroll. The routine of A. E. Gleason had most likely been watched for weeks, and as he entered the hallway of the firm's building, he was attacked by two men, one armed with a pistol. Although it was not an enormous payroll, the bandits nevertheless made off with the equivalent of $8,800 today.
In 1929 S. Edson Gage was called back to enlarge the bank by slightly doubling its width on Grove Street. His nearly seamless addition was separated from the original building at the roof level by a tall chimney and wall. Their purpose was most likely to disguise the additional full fourth floor of the new structure, slightly higher than the original. Behind its two copper clad dormers were two "non-housekeeping apartments." The term meant that they had no kitchens.
The nation was captivated by the sensational kidnapping of the 20-month-old son of aviator Charles Lindbergh in March 1933. Before the ransom was paid, the F.B.I. recorded the serial numbers of the bills. One of them would turn up in the Corn Exchange Bank's Sheridan Square branch and provide critical evidence.
Cecelia M. Barr was a cashier in the Loew's Sheridan movie theatre on Seventh Avenue at West 12th Street. At 9:30 on the night of Sunday, November 26, 1933 Richard Hauptmann stepped up to her window and threw a folded $5 bill at her. The next morning the assistant manager of the theater took the night's receipts to the bank.
Teller William Cody--along with employees of grocery stores, insurance agencies, gas stations, airports and such--had been given a pamphlet warning to watch for the ransom bills, along with a listing of the serial numbers. The sharp-eyed teller discovered that the $5 bill Barr had received from Hauptmann was one of those marked by the FBI.
The collection of circumstances led Cecelia Barr to distinctly remember the man among the 1,500 patrons that night, and to describe him to Federal authorities. She later recounted “He took the bill out of his watch pocket and threw it at me. That naturally made me look up—the way he did it.” Other factors made her take notice of Hauptmann. He was late for the screening—she was even counting her receipts, not expecting anymore patrons—and although it was a cold night, he wore no overcoat. The third reason, other than the tossing of the bill, was the way it was folded. “The bill was folded in eight parts as if it had been taken from a watch pocket. I had to unfold it myself,” she later testified.
The evidence and Barr's testimony partly let to Haupmann's conviction and execution. She received a $1,000 reward in January 1938.
The second floor housed doctors' offices in 1943. The Grove Street side has three entrances--the main doorway, a service door to the basement, and what was probably an employees' entrance. from the collection of the Library of Congress
In 1954 the Corn Exchange Bank & Trust Company merged with Chemical Bank, taking the latter's name. Another name change would come about in 1995 when Chemical Bank merged with Chase Manhattan.
Long before that a teller was terrified by a bank robber on April 1, 1974. The tall, thin man who wore a brown raincoat and ski mask told the teller he had a bomb. He made off with $700 in cash; over $3,500 in today's money.
Crime was not restricted to the banking floor. Upstairs were the offices of Ragwomen Distributors, founded to supply newsstands with feminist periodicals, like the women's bi-weekly newspaper, the Majority Report. In February 1975 criminals broke in, and stole typesetting equipment and financial records. It was more than a case of burglary, however. An employee, Nancy Borman, told reporters that "bright orange paint was sprayed on the walls."
The wall that separates the top floors of the original building and addition necessitated the lopping off of the ear of one of the marble lintels.
While the neighborhood around it has seen significant change since 1919, S. Edson Gage's dignified bank building has survived virtually untouched; a striking presence on the high-profile corner.
photographs by the author
Posted by Tom Miller at 1:56 AM
Labels: greenwich village, neo-georgian architecture, s. edson gage, sheridan square, west fourth street
James November 21, 2019 at 6:33 AM
Ah, but the doors...
Tom Miller November 21, 2019 at 10:21 AM
well, there's that. :-)
Tom Miller
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Mission, Vision, Objectives
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Sayoki profile
PROFESSOR SAYOKI MFINANGA
Professor Sayoki Godfrey Mfinanga is a Chief Research Scientist and Director of the Muhimbili Research Centre of the National Institute for Medical Research (NIMR), Tanzania. He is also a Deputy Director for Afrique One Consortium and Coordinator for the Tuberculosis Node of Excellence of East Africa under East African Consortium for Clinical Research. He is Academic Supervisor for masters and PhD students at University of Bergen, Centre for International Health and he supervises master students for Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences.
He is Chair of NIMR Non Communicable Diseases (NCD) Technical Working Group, Member of National NCDs Working Group and International Standards for Tuberculosis Care Core Working Group
He is also a member the Capturing the One Health Momentum for Global Implementation and Proof of Concept Global Working Group of Operationalising “One Health”.
Professor Mfinanga holds a Degree in Medicine (MD) from the University of Dar es Salaam and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Medical Epidemiology from the University of Bergen, Norway, focusing on tuberculosis and HIV co-infection. He has received several others courses at level of advanced postgraduate diploma including courses in Epidemiology, Bio-statistics and Medical Informatics, and Good Clinical and Laboratory Practices.
Dr Mfinanga has been involved in a number of research projects, most of them related to Tuberculosis, HIV infection, Zoonoses, Maternal and Child Health, Influenza A virus infection, molecular epidemiology, and non communicable diseases. He has over 18 years of research experience and has published 61 articles in peer reviewed national and international journals.
A list of Professor Mfinanga’s publications can be found here.
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New AAS-Gates-German Partnership That Spurs Health Innovations
Call For Experts : Scientific Advisory Committee of the EDCTP Association
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Testosterone Track by Track - Godlike button
“Be-bop-a-lula baby gonna get my gun”
What if Elvis would do the vocals to an EBM track and sing about the threat of nuclear holocaust? It would probably not sound anything like Godlike button; but that was what we were aiming for with this song.
I think the Elvis approach on the verse came about since the bass line is a bit bluesy. And we always try to find a different or new element to incorporate in our music to make it interesting and fresh.
The lyrics is probably influenced by the movie Dr. Strangelove. Both me and Erik really love the work of Stanley Kubrick. But it is also deeply influenced by the volatile situation in the middle east and the nuke flexing by Kim Jong-il in North Korea. It is also a way for me to confront a life long fear of nuclear weapons; a fear that stems from growing up during the cold war in the 80:s.
Sadly the production (or rather lack of production) on this track makes it a bit too... nice. I wish we had spent some more time on this one making sure it sounded a bit more heavy and aggressive.
Testosterone by Batch ID
Testosterone Track by Track - Nothing to say
Feeling a bit nostalgic and thought I should write something about each track on the album Testosterone.
Nothing to say was the first track I wrote with Erik. We had just met and was trying to figure out what kind of music we should do together. We both liked electroclash and figured we should write a pop song with some edge and attitude.
We started by programming a baseline and some drums in Reason. In fact a lot of our early songs are programmed solely in Reason. It's only the vocals that are done in Cubase. The music came along very easy and it only took a couple of hours to write and programme. But when it came to the lyrics we got stuck and had no idea in what direction we wanted to go.
I had this idea that we should stay away from love themes. Probably thought it was easy to get into cliches, and wanted to do something different. I remember that we took a break from the studio and went for pizza. While eating we came up with the idea of trying to write lyrics about something that annoyed and angered us (wixh has become a formula for Batch ID). We pitched a lot of different ideas before we started to talk about stuff that currently was on TV.
We both despised reality television and docusoaps where young people got famous for being drunk and doing stupid stuff. We both seemed to have a particular disgust for the show The Simple life with Paris Hilton and Nicole Richie. Rich girls that seemed to get famous for being obnoxious and stupid and really detached from everyday life. Girls with absolutely nothing to say. With that topic in mind it was very easy to come up with the lyrics and I think we recorded the vocals the very same day.
We had absolutely no clues about production when we started the band. We only used EQ on the master and on the vocals. The other sounds is mostly raw from the synths in Reason. We had some rudimentary knowledge about reverb and delays, but other then that, it is not many effects in the production.
So we kind of picked sounds that we thought fit in different places in the soundscape. That is why the sound of the songs sometimes are a bit flat and lacks a bit in punch and depth. But considering the lack of knowledge I am surprised that the songs sounds as good as they do. It could have been much worse.
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Quiring, Jacob H. (1913–2004)
Proper Title
Jacob H. Quiring fonds
Dates of Creation
[195–]–2004
2cm. of textual material
Jacob H. Quiring, minister and teacher, was born on June 10, 1913, in Hepburn, Saskatchewan, to Henry C. Quiring (15 March 1878-14 December 1966) and Maria Nikkel (23 May 1883-28 June 1964).
Jacob grew up on a farm near Dalmeny, Saskatchewan, and was baptized upon confession of faith in Jesus in 1929, joining the Dalmeny Mennonite Brethren Church. While he enjoyed farming life, his passion for Christ and the church was strong. At 15, he preached his first sermon.
He attended Tabor Bible School in Dalmeny (2 years) and Winkler (Manitoba) Bible Institute (5 years). With the recommendation of Dr. A.H. Unruh, he was invited to teach at the Coaldale (Alberta) Bible Institute (1936-1939).
After his first year of teaching, he married Anna Enns (b. 18 January 1914) on June 27, 1937. They adopted two children (Lois and Robert) and then two children (Linda and David) were born to them. Linda died at the age of 29 due to cancer.
After eight years of Bible school teaching, first in Coaldale and then in Dalmeny (1941-1944), Jacob was ordained by the Dalemey MB Church to serve as minister of the gospel. Sensing the need for more formal education, the Quiring family moved to Hillsboro, Kansas, where Jacob completed a BA from Tabor College in 1945.
Jacob joined the faculty at the newly formed Mennonite Brethren Bible College in Winnipeg and served for ten years as instructor, earning a Bachelor of Divinity (now equivalent to MDiv) degree during the summers. He was a “highly-respected college teacher” and was “frequently invited to speak in churches across Canada,” according to David Ewert (“A Tribute to Jacob H. Quiring [1913-2004]” MB Herald [Sept 3, 2004] p. 26).
Following his stint as college instructor, Jacob accepted the pastorate of the Winkler (Manitoba) MB Church, serving for 7 years. Returning to MBBC in 1962 as President, he led the college administration through to the summer of 1966. Then the Bakerview (Abbotsford) MB Church called him to the pastorate, where he served for nine years.
On May 25, 1970, he was awarded an honorary Doctor of Divinity degree from Wilfred Laurier University.
His wider denominational responsibilities included serving as moderator of the Canadian MB Conference and the British Columbia MB Conference. “At times he was critical of some of the trends and developments in the denomination, but his love for the church never wavered,” says David Ewert (“Quiring, Jacob H. (1913-2004),” Global Anabaptist Mennonite Encyclopedia Online [June 2005]).
In retirement, Jake and Annie traveled to Austria, where Jake taught for three terms. He also served in several congregations as an interim minister and into his 80s accepted invitations to preach. They settled in Abbotsford in 1982, after 46 years of public ministry.
Jacob H. Quiring died on July 24, 2004, at the age of ninety-one. Annie died on July 11, 2014, at the age of 100.
According to David Ewert, “Jake was a man of great integrity and honesty. He reflected deeply on the great verities of the Christian faith, and often wrestled with theological questions and even spiritual doubts” (“A Tribute,” p. 27).
In addition to David Ewert’s tribute (MB Herald) and biography (GAMEO), more details of Jacob H. Quiring’s life can be found in his autobiographical writings: Two are better than One (1995) and Nostalgia (1994), both of which are included in the fonds. See below.
In 2012 (no accession number recorded), Bert Friesen donated four duo-tang bond folders of writings by Jacob H. Quiring to the Centre for Mennonite Brethren Studies, Winnipeg.
The Jacob H. Quiring fonds consists of four unpublished works, two are autobiographical (Two are better than One [1995] and Nostalgia [1994], one is a collection of thirty devotionals that aired on radio station CFAM during the 1950s, while Jacob ministered at the Winkler MB Church, and one is a short collection of funeral sermons, Faith Looks Beyond the Grave (1994). The fonds documents well the scope of Jacob’s ministry, his life and pulpit ministry.
Title based on contents of fonds.
Accession numbers: no number recorded.
Volume No.: 1029.
Finding aid consists of a description and a file list.
Description created by Jon Isaak, September 2013.
No restrictions to access.
1. Radio Devotionals. -- thirty messages read on Radio station CFAM. -- [195-].
2. Funeral Sermons. -- Faith Looks Beyond the Grave. -- 1994.
3. Autobiography. Nostalgia. -- 1994.
4. Autobiography. Two are better than One. -- 1995.
5. Tribute and obituary. -- 2004.
News from CMBS
Discerning women in ministry leadership in the Mennonite Brethren church
“It’s like a detective story; …Read More »
Archive of all “News from CMBS” posts
Summer 2018 marked …Read More »
Click here to view used books for sale.
Mennonite Archival Image Database (MAID)
Mennonite Brethren Historical Commission
Mennonite Encyclopedia online (GAMEO)
Mennonite Heritage Archives
Mennonite Heritage Museum
Mennonite Heritage Village
Mennonite Historian (magazine)
Who are Mennonites? (4 minute video)
News from CCMBC
Our Financial Story
Prayer alert
Institutional Records
Provincial Conferences
Canadian Conference of MB Churches
Other Mennonite Organizations
Conference Resolutions
Conference Yearbooks
Confessions of Faith
Study Conference Papers
Genealogical index
Published genealogies
Unpublished genealogies
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