text:
The Beginning

The leaves fall relentlessly through sheets of rain. A boy rushes to get to the subway. Past the shallow puddles on the sidewalk, not giving a second glance at people on the street, he sprints down the stairs and into the underground network.

The boy is trying to make it halfway across the city, a one-train trip, only three stops, and the next one won’t come for another hour. A backpack slung over his back, it’s contents being a science textbook and a book entitled *Violin: From Crescendo To Concerto*, he is headed to a five o’clock violin lesson, directly followed by an hour long math tutor, and finally practicing his lines for the school play, *Hamlet*.

The young man is halfway to the station when he realizes he is five minute early. You would think that this would relax him, give him a moment of peace, but no. It only further increases his anxiety. Horrible thoughts of a broken train or a flooded tunnel fill his mind. He sits down, anxious beyond measure,and doesn't even notice the quarter fall from his pocket. He sees it, and upon realizing that it's his he springs up and walks towards it.

Too late however, a man bundled in various winter coats and another coat of grime bent down and grabbed it.

"Excuse me, sir," the boy says to the man.

The man walks on a if he hasn't heard him.

The boy repeats himself, louder than before, "Excuse me, sir!"

The man stops and looks behind, giving the sense that he has not heard the boy yet another, more subliminal sense, suggesting that he had.

"What is it you want, boy?" The man gives him a hard stare, as if daring him to say more.

The boy stutters, "I, um, the coin, it's um, mine could I-".

The man snaps at him, "Cut to the chase, boy! You won't get anywhere with that second-guessing cinder block up there between your shoulders!"

"I'm sorry sir, it's just that coin you picked up from the ground, it' mine."

The man offers sarcasm, "Well, such a *strong-minded* individual such as yourself who *obviously* shows very *plain* leadership qualities ought to have everything that is rightfully his, shouldn't he?" The man tosses the coin into the boy's outstretched hand and turns away.

The boy knows he shouldn't interfere with the man anymore, he was an odd type and gave him a bad feeling, but his attitude perplexed him more than anything and he wanted to know more.

"Excuse me, sir!", he calls out once more.

The man turns back, a look of vexation crossing his face.

"What is it you want now boy, is it the dollar I have hidden up my sleeve, or maybe the roll of dimes in my coat pocket?"

"No sir, I'm sorry for asking, but what is it that has you so flustered?"

"Flustered! I said nothing that implied my being flustered! What makes you assume that?"

"It's just, you seemed very cross at departing with that coin and-"

"I wasn't cross with the *coin*, I was cross with *you*, boy!"

"What have I done to offend you?", said the boy, trying not to express his own offense.

"You don't have the right look about you boy. Your gait's hurried, your fingers are restless, and your voice box's barely flickering with power."

"Why is that a problem, sir?"

"See, look at that! You're supposed to get up in my face, show some anger, something! Who taught you to be so soft-spoken?"

"Well, my parents taught me the rules, and I follow them in school."

"That's *despicable*! Tell me, boy, what happens if you do follow these *rules*?"

"Well, I've been told I'll have a happy life with a good job and lots of money." The whole time the boy has stared into space, hardly blinking.

"Lies!", the man shouts, "I'll tell you something, boy, not because I want to, but because you need to hear it."

"What is it then?"

"You're working for an empty cause. The lies they tell you is to keep your potential hidden, to make sure you work for them, not vice versa. You busy a lot?"

The boy nods.

"Just as I thought, they're really distractions. Who really cares if you can play Beethoven's 5th, can you choose between right and wrong. Can you see that there is something beyond what you know, something greater that valedictorians and diplomas, or will you live your life as another worthless human being?"

The boy is startled. Things are starting to make sense. "I'm afraid I don't quite follow you, sir."

"Tell me boy, do you do the things you do because you want to or because of this better life thing?"

The boy is too stunned to speak.

"It's like a modern *carpe diem*, boy. Every day wasted is a day you gave to them, do you want to continue to live like this?"

The boy shakes his head no.

"Neither do I, boy. But you're younger than me. You have a better chance at bringing about the change than I do. We cannot have these ideals yet, we have to work towards them, and maybe one day we will amount to something."

"I'm sorry, who's "we"?"

That moment his subway rolls into the station. The man smiles at him. "Remember what I said."

The boy gets into the subway. He turns back to get a glimpse of the man. He does. He also notices a tattoo on his arm that he didn't notice before. An "A" with a circle around it. Then the man vanishes from sight, into the crowd.

The boy sits down and opens his backpack. In it, along with it's previous contents, is a bunch of papers stapled together, a book called *Against the Logic of Submission* by Wolfi Landstreicher. IT looks as though it was printed by a home printer. The boy begins to flip through it when he notices a piece of lined paper, poorly torn out of a notebook, probably. It has one simple address: 818 SW 3rd Ave., PMB 1237 Portland, OR 97217.

With the address and the papers the boy slowly begins to awaken over the next few weeks. He realizes to the full extent what the man was saying. He begins a plan.

He leads the revolution.

title: The Beginning

question: Summarize the trajectory of the quarter.

answer: The quarter falls from the boy's pocket. The man then bends down and grabs it. When the boy asks for it back, the man tosses it into the boy's hand.

question: Summarize the surprise ending to the story.

answer: The man tells the boy that he can bring about change. When the man leaves, the boy finds a book in his backpack with a slip of paper containing an address. The boy then goes on to lead a revolution.

question: What does the story have to say about conformity?

answer: The story seems to speak against conformity. The man encourages the boy not to follow the rules, as doing so prevents him from realizing his full potential. He considers conformity to be a waste of life. The intertextual reference of Against the Logic of Submission also supports the story's anti-conformity message. At the end of the story, the protagonist goes on to lead a revolution, rejecting conformity.

question: What does the story say about the convenience of the public transit system?


split: train

text:
Disclaimer -- I haven't done any real non-work related writing in many.. MANY years.. I have probably committed a thousand and one grammatical atrocities and don't even realize it.  I just finally decided I miss writing and threw together a short story off the top of my head in about 15 - 20 minutes.

--------------------------------------------------------

It wasn't quite yet midnight.  The day we had anticipated for months.  We had everything packed and I was desperately trying to sleep for the long trip ahead of us.

Tossing and turning we struggled to pass the time as minutes turned to hours leading up to now.  Eleven Fifty Five pm and All I want to do is hit the road now, not at 8am as we planned. Suddenly, a shatter from the garage.  "What is happening? What is going on!" I thought, as I nudged John next to me. "John, John.. did you hear that?!" "Wha-snarfle-snar-gull-uggg* is the response I got "I nudged him a second time, harder still "John! Somebody is in our garage!" This time John woke up and seemed as concerned as I was.

John went to the safe and got a 9mm pistol, loaded it up and started for the downstairs.  I made for the phone to call the police..  Dead.. the line was dead.  How could this be? This couldn't be happening, not to us, not now.. On this day of all days.

I check back at the clock.. 12:20.  Today, today is supposed to be the greatest day of our recently married lives. I realize soon that John has been gone for 20 minutes and I haven't heard another sound from the entire house.  Frozen in time for what amounted to 5 minutes, I wasn't sure what to do.  I finally mustered up the courage to step out of bed and throw on my Bathrobe.  I too grab the other gun from the safe and struggle to remind myself of the training that John and I took last summer at the Police shooting range.  I loaded up the clip and locked it into the gun.  Through the dark and quiet house I tip-toed silently as a mouse.  I made my way to the door leading to the garage and listened.  voices.. John.. and.. 2 voices I did not recognize.  I stood silently trying to listen.  A Standoff.  It sounds like John is in danger.  Without sight, I am left to my own imagination of what the situation looks like just beyond the door.  Guns in the air, pointed at one another.  Everybody making threats and nobody backing down.  Uncertain how to help, I tip-toed to the outside leading door furthest from the garage.  I made my way to the yard.  I have no idea at this point if I am making any correct decisions or just struggling to make the situation worse.  Around the outside of the house I snuck, gun in hand, safety still on as to not accidentally fire in my nervous state.

I made my way to the window just outside of the garage. The window is open, "This must be how they got in, I thought.  Shoot, the shades are closed though" It was obvious there was no way I was going to be able to see through this window without being heard.  I can now hear the conversation inside the garage much more clearly than from behind the interior door.   I don't know what to make of the things I am hearing.  John seems to know these 2 people.  They are referencing each other by name.  Some sort of argument ensues.  I can only make out some of the conversation.. "Money owed.  Gambling.. Here to collect"

Could it be? Could John have a secret life of gambling and crime?  5 years together and I've never known?  How could this be.  All those late nights at the office. I never imagined anything else.  All those "Business" phone calls.  I just couldn't believe it.  I hear John is trying to convince them to leave the car, and everything in tact.  They keep saying it is the only thing worth any value.

In my nervous state, shocked at the things I am learning I unknowingly dropped the gun to the ground as it made a loud "thud" and a "scraping" sound across the gravel.  I hear one of the men gasp and start heading towards the window.  I quickly pick the gun back up and point it at the shades.  The shades fly up and I am face to face with a man I've never seen before, gun drawn.  Now things are a 1 on 1 standoff.  Me with my gun and this man and John with his gun and the other man.  I refuse to come inside the garage and insist that they leave empty handed.  Things turn from bad to worse when the man shoots a bullet over my shoulder to scare me. I immediately pull the trigger to fire back... "Shit, I didn't release the safety" Now struggling in a panic at what to do the man starts to laugh and reaches out to grab the gun from me.  By now, the neighborhood is awake and surely police have been called.  I manage to release the safety just in time to shoot the stranger in the hand as he is reaching to grab the gun from me.  He backs up and the other man Shoots John.  John shoots the other man and the man I shot in the hand shoots me.  We are all down, I laid there in the cold gravel, still outside of the garage.  In the distance I can hear sirens looming as I lose consciousness.

2 days later I wake up in the hospital.  John is no where to be found bedside or otherwise. I have no idea what has happened.  As I come to and I adjust to my place in this hospital bed I am finally informed of the news.  "John didn't make it" The nurse said "We did everything we could but the wound was too damaging."

As I lay there contemplating my current situation, I replayed that night in my head every single second in repetition.  Could I have done anything more?  Should I have done something differently?  What happened to my dearest John?  What happened to the assailants who broke into our house?  As these questions raced I didn't notice the 2 assailants being wheeled down the hallway passed my room with police in tow.  They were on their way to county lock up pending trial.

I couldn't believe it, a dream of a life shattered in one single hour.. It just goes to show that you never really have ti all, or if you do, it's only on loan as long as someone agrees that it is okay for you to keep it. From that day fourth, I never could take that drive into the country.

title: The long road to loneliness

question: Why couldn't the protagonist sleep?

answer: She was too excited for her and her husband's trip.

question: Why did two men visit in the middle of the night?

answer: According to what the protagonist heard, they came to collect gambling debts from her husband.

question: What happened to the protagonist in the altercation?

answer: She was shot.

question: What was the protagonist's conclusion at the end of the story?

answer: That we never know when our life may change drastically in just a few minutes or hours.

question: Write a ~2 sentence summary.

answer: The text is a short story about a married couple who get into an altercation with two men who come in the middle of the night to collect the husband's debts. The woman is shot, but survives, while the husband dies.


text:
Lakers Rumors: Carmelo Anthony Not Meeting With Lakers On July 1
[new_royalslider id=”160″]

In the Los Angeles Lakers’ attempt to re-build the team quickly, their sights have been set on unrestricted free agents Carmelo Anthony and LeBron James, and the team hopes to meet with both once free agency kicks off.

That may now be in question as ESPN’s Chris Broussard reports that the Lakers are not one of the teams Anthony will meet with on July 1:

  Sources: Carmelo Anthony will visit Houston, Dallas and Chicago once teams are allowed to meet with free agents on July 1

  — Chris Broussard (@Chris_Broussard) June 25, 2014

This comes as a blow to the Lakers’ plans. They were hopeful to secure a meeting with Anthony in order to lure him to Los Angeles, but the team doesn’t have the roster to compete with some of the other teams vying for Anthony.

The Bulls and Rockets, in particular, each have two excellent players that they could pair with Anthony –making them immediate contenders for the NBA championship. The Mavericks also boast Dirk Nowitzki, and are close to adding a couple of familiar faces to Carmelo.

— Lakers Nation Summer Sale Is Here! Get 32% Off Orders More Than $20! Use Code: #TheFuture —

It is believed that Anthony would consider the Lakers if they strengthened their roster, but with very few pieces to do so, it seems unlikely that the team would really appeal to Anthony by the time free agency starts.

The Knicks will continue to fight to keep Anthony, but with stiff competition coming from these other teams, the Lakers may have to go to Plan B this summer.
__________________________________________________________________________________________
Kobe Bryant On LeBron James, Championships – Also Says He’s 100 %

question: Who are the Los Angeles Lakers attempting to meet with?

answer: The Los Angeles Lakers are attempting to meeting with Carmelo Anthony.

question: Will Carmelo Anthony meet with the Lakers?

answer: It is unlikely that he will meet the Lakers.

question: Who else wants to sign Carmelo Anthony?

answer: He is visiting Houston, Dallas, and Chicago.

question: What teams is Carmelo Anthony visiting?

answer: He is visiting Houston, Dallas, and Chicago.

question: Write a ~1 sentence summary.

answer: While the Los Angeles Lakers may want to sign Carmelo Anthony, he is not on the list of teams he is meeting with, which include Houston, Dallas, and Chicago.


text:
The weather forecast for today was dark and gloomy. Ironically enough that was how I felt inside. My girlfriend, now ex girlfriend had decided that it was best if we started seeing other people. I knew she was cheating on me. She would come home late and when I would try and touch her she would flinch. At that moment I didn't think much of it. Memories are funny that way, the more you look back the more details come to light and the  darker they become.
She left with out saying a word. She left for work that morning in a new dress and had a lingering scent of a rather expensive perfume that I never recall her purchasing. It was quite arousing. I tried to kiss her good bye but she flinched a bit and it set me back. I went about my day like every other day. Got up, showered, brushed my teeth and shaved. On this day I decided to walk to work since the weather forecast was sunny with no clouds in sight. There was a slight breeze that cooled the sweat from my body and was quite refreshing. I enjoyed my somewhat short walk to work since it was pretty close to our apartment. I worked at a local record store. The pay was enough to get by, but with our money together we lived a rather comfortable life. We didn't really need much so me working here was great, especially since I really loved music. The day went by quick and before I knew it my shift was over. I was walking home when it hit me that she never called me during her lunch break. She would typically call to talk about her day and to see how mine was. That day I never got a call, I assumed she must've been really busy so I didn't think much about it. I got home and made enough dinner for the both of us assuming she would be home a little after I got home. She's been coming home late the entire week but I held on to the hope that today would be different. She would at least call and let me know so I wouldn't wait up for her but again no call. She never came back that night. She left her life here to linger in our apartment. Her scent, her cloth, her books. Basically everything she owned was left to remind me of her.
Anyways, it's been a week and I've done nothing but listen to Leonard Cohen and read Murakami. These two men have sort of become instructors, one on how to get over heart ache, the other on how to go into deep wells and become one with darkness in an attempt to become nothing and escape this world. The thought of there being other worlds and alternate realities intrigued me. The thought of their being a world where I am still with Namiko and none of the bullshit I'm going through existed infuriated me for some reason. Why couldn't that be my reality? How I envy myself in that other world, still being able to caress her porcelain skin and feel her warmth against his skin, my skin, as they make love. Unfortunately I must live in this reality, a reality where she isn't with me. So now I just lay here with nothing but an erection from the memories when we made love and Leonard Cohen's Winter Lady playing on repeat on my stereo.

title: Untitled. [RF]

question: Why is the main character upset?

answer: His girlfriend broke up with him.

question: What music does he listen to?

answer: Leonard Cohen.

question: What books does he read?

answer: Books by Murakami.

question: What does he suspect?

answer: That his girlfriend was cheating on him.

question: Write a ~2 sentence summary.

answer: A man's girlfriend leaves him one day after he suspects she had been cheating on him. He reads books and listens to music to try to fill the ache in his soul.


text:
MARGARETA VON MELEN née Vasa (1489-1541) was a Swedish noble. She was second cousin of King Gustav Vasa and the maternal aunt of Queen Margaret Leijonhufvud .

Life

Margareta was the eldest daughter of the nobles Erik Karlsson (Vasa) and Anna Karlsdotter (Vinstorpa). Her father was a cousin of Erik Johansson Vasa, father of King Gustav Vasa, and she was thus the second cousin of the future king.

Margareta married at some point prior to 1515 to lord Erik Knutsson Tre Rosor. In November 1520, her spouse became one of those executed at the Stockholm Bloodbath.

Cousin of the king

In 1523, she married the German noble and _riksråd_ Berend von Melen in Söderköping. The marriage was arranged by her second cousin the king for political reasons. During his early reign, the German nobles John VII of Hoya and Berend von Melen belonged to the most trusted allies of the king, and he arranged the marriage between John VII of Hoya and his sister Margareta and Berend von Melen and his second cousin Margareta to secure their loyalty: the marriages were however controversial among the peasantry, who disliked the Germans around the king and criticized them and the foreign marriages when the king married the German princess Catherine of Saxe-Lauenburg.[1] After their marriage, king Gustav granted the governorship of Vyborg Castle (an important stronghold against Russia) to John VII of Hoya and Kalmar Castle (an important stronghold against Denmark) to Berend von Melen.[2]

Treason

Two years later, Margareta and her spouse took part in the failed attempt of Christina Gyllenstierna and Søren Norby to take the throne. In March 1525, the first of the Dalecarlian rebellions took place organized by Knut Mickelsson and Christina's former chancellor Peder Jakobsson (Sunnanväder), who glorified the reign of the Sture family in contrast to that of Gustav Vasa.[3] The rebels reportedly contacted Søren Norby, who was the same month promised by Christian II to be his governor in Sweden should he deposed king Gustav. In April, Norby was rumored to be on his way to Blekinge with a fleet, after which he launched attacks with his fleet from his base in Gotland.[4]

King Gustav sent Berend von Melen to fight Norby. However, von Melen broke his loyalty to the king and allied with Søren Norby, a treason for which the king blamed his second cousin Margareta von Melen: “Whatever wind in his ear it was [that made him shift loyalty] is not to be said. Although some blamed this on his wife, as this took place immediately after she joined him there.”[5] Shortly after, Christina sent her son Nils to von Melen at Kalmar Castle,[6] and it was evidently believed, that von Melen would help Nils to unite with Norby.[7] It was speculated abroad, that Søren Norby and Berend von Melen would conquer Sweden together as they were “through their wives highly connected” in Sweden.[8]

At this point, the von Melen couple left for Germany, leaving Nils and a garrison in Kalmar, which was sieged by the troops of Gustav I, while Christina herself seems to have been placed in arrest. In May, the Dalecarlian rebels reproached King Gustav for having imprisoned Christina and having driven her son Nils out of the country[9] and demanded the freedom of Christina.[10]

On 20 July 1525, however, the rebellion was crushed when Nils, the son of Christina, was taken prisoner by king Gustav after his victory at the Siege of Kalmar.[11]

Exile

Margareta von Melen settled in Saxony, where her spouse was given a position by the Prince Elector and printed libelous pamphlets about King Gustav that damaged his reputation in Germany.[12] Her property in Sweden was confiscated and given to her younger sister Ebba Eriksdotter Vasa: Margareta protested the confiscation and demanded her sister pay compensation, but Lady Ebba refused on the grounds that she had not asked for them and was supported by the king, who declared that Margareta and her spouse had done their best to harm the king and the realm and that Lady Margareta had abandoned her country and “so deviously used her mouth in a way to shameful to mention.”[13]

Margareta died in exile in Germany.

[1] Tegenborg Falkdalen, Karin, Margareta Regina: vid Gustav Vasas sida : [en biografi över Margareta Leijonhufvud (1516-1551)], Setterblad, Stockholm, 2016

[2]

[3]

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[5]

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[7] Svenskt biografiskt lexikon

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[10] Daluppror i Nordisk familjebok (andra upplagan, 1906)

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[13]

title: Margareta von Melen

question: What relationship did Margareta share with King Gustav Vasa?

answer: She was the King's second cousin.

question: Whom did Margareta marry?

answer: Margareta married lord Erik Knutsson Tre Rosor. He was executed in November 1520 at the Stockholm Bloodbath. She later married a German noble Berend von Melen.

question: Why was Margareta married to Melen?

answer: The marriage was arranged by her cousin, the King, for political reasons.

question: When did Margareta die?

answer: Margareta died in exile in Germany in 1541.

question: Write a ~9 sentence summary.

answer:
Margareta Von Melen was a Swedish noble. She was the second cousin of King Gustav Vasa. She was married to Lord Erik Knutsson Tre Rosor, who was executed at the Stockholm Bloodbath. Margareta later married a German noble Berend von Melen. The marriage was arranged by the King for political reasons.

The King had sent Melen to fight Norby, however, Melen broke his loyalty and allied with Søren Norby. Margareta was blamed for this.

The couple settled in Saxony and her property in Sweden was confiscated and given to her sister.

Margareta died in exile in Germany.


text:
Be in a takeaway having food
A couple with kids walks in.
Father goes to order food
Kids and hot wife sit opposite to me.
Boy of 5 starts to look at me and smile.
I wave back. he comes to sit next to me.
Starts to eat my fries.
We bond very well.
Wife sees us and starts to smile.
Husband walks in with food.
Sees wife giving me smile.
Comes near me.
Sees a very prominent birth mark on my face.
Fuck Me. Kid has the same.
Husband snatches the baby who starts to cry.
Wife  doesn't know what is happening.
Husband takes the family and drives off.

title: But 5 years ago I was virgin :O

question: Where did this setting take place?

answer: In a takeaway.

question: Who is the husband?

answer: It wasn't stated. But it was inferred that he has a family.

question: What's the poem all about?

answer: It's all about family and secrets.

question: Is this a family story?

answer: Yes, it's about a family.

question: Write a ~4 sentence summary.

answer: The narrator is in a takeaway having food when a couple with kids walks in. One of the kids, a boy of 5, starts affiliating with the narrator. They bond very well, and the father, on seeing them both, realizes that both kids have the same birthmark on their faces. The husband immediately snatches his kid up and leaves with his family.


text:
DICKEY LEE HULLINGHORST (born July 27, 1943[1]) is a former legislator in the U.S. state of Colorado and a former Speaker of the Colorado House of Representatives.[2] She was elected as a Democrat in 2008. Hullinghorst represented House District 10, which encompasses central eastern Boulder and northeastern Boulder County, Colorado.[3]

She is only the second woman in state history to hold that position.[4] It is the first time since 1880 a Boulder County, Colorado lawmaker has been the Speaker of the House.[5]

Biography

Born Dickey Lee Shepard (named after her father, Richard),[6] in Maywood, Nebraska, Hullinghorst earned a bachelor's degree in sociology from the University of Wyoming in 1965[7] and has completed graduate work in public policy at the University of Colorado, Denver. She has worked as a computer programmer for the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development in Washington, DC,[8] as legislative affairs director for the Colorado Open Space Council from 1979 to 1980 and as senior vice president for Herrick S. Roth Associates, a Denver public policy consulting firm, from 1980 to 1985.[9][10]

Starting in 1985, Hullinghorst worked as Intergovernmental Relations Director for Boulder County, Colorado. She spearheaded the 2003 creation of the “Boulder County Countywide Coordinated Comprehensive Development Plan Intergovernmental Agreement,” or “Super IGA,” governing Boulder County development and land-preservation policies over a two-decade timeframe.[11] In recognition of this work, she received the Metro Vision First Place Award from the Denver Regional Council of Governments (DRCOG) and the National Association of Counties (NACo) intergovernmental cooperation award. She also received the Local Government Collaboration Gold Award for work on an IGA targeting Colorado State Highway 42 revitalization.[12] Additionally, Hullinghorst's position entailed lobbying the state legislature on behalf of Boulder County. Hullinghorst retired in December 2007 upon announcing her campaign for the state legislature.[13]

She has served on a number of local boards and commissions, including Boulder County's Parks and Open Space Advisory Committee, Healthy Communities Steering Committee, Resource Conservation Advisory Board, and Mental Health Center Board, as well as the city of Boulder's Blue Ribbon Commission on Revenue Stability. During the early 1980s,[14] Hullinghorst received gubernatorial appointments to the Colorado Mined Land Reclamation Board, the Front Range Project Steering Committee, and the Metropolitan Water Roundtable. She helped found the Colorado Open Lands Board, and served on the boards of EcoCycle, Political Action for Conservation, and PLAN Boulder County.[15] Hullinghorst also once played oboe with the Longmont symphony.[16]

A veteran of Democratic Party politics, Hullinghorst was a delegate to the 1976 Democratic National Convention and has served in a number of roles with the Boulder County Democratic Party, as a precinct committeeperson, member of the central and executive committees, finance chair, GOTV co-chair, county vice-chair,[17] and as county chair from 1975 to 1979.[18] She has also served on the executive committee of the Colorado Democratic Party,[19] and vice-president of the Colorado Women's Political Caucus in the 1970s and as president of the Colorado Democratic Women's Political Action from 2000 to 2002.[20]

Hullinghorst currently lives in Gunbarrel, Colorado.[21] Her husband, Bob Hullinghorst, was Boulder County Treasurer.[22] They have one daughter, Lara.[23]

Legislative career

2008 campaign

In October 2007, Hullinghorst announced her candidacy for the state house seat being vacated by term-limited Rep. Alice Madden.[24] She had no opposition in the Democratic primary[25] and, in the general election, faced Republican Dorothy Marshall,[26] a Boulder health insurance agent whose bid was endorsed by the _Denver Post_.[27] Hullinghorst's campaign, however, was endorsed by the _Boulder Daily Camera_[28] and the _Boulder Weekly_.[29] Hullinghorst touted her government experience, and emphasized tax reform and the state budget in her legislative campaign.[30] She ultimately won the general election with 75 percent of the popular vote.[31]

2009 legislative session

For the 2009 legislative session, Hullinghorst was named to seats on the House Agriculture and Natural Resources Committee and the House State, Veterans, and Military Affairs Committee.[32]

2010 legislative session

For the 2010 legislative session, Hullinghorst was named to the House Appropriations Committee, filling a seat previously held by Representative Kathleen Curry.[33]

2010 election

2011 legislative session

2012 legislative session

2012 election

In the 2012 General Election, Representative Hullinghorst faced Republican challenger William H. Eckert. Hullinghorst was reelected by a wide margin of 80% to 20%.[34][35]

[1]

[2]

[3]

[4] http://www.seattlepi.com/news/article/Rep-Hullinghorst-new-Colorado-House-speaker-5893099.php

[5] http://www.bizjournals.com/denver/blog/capitol_business/2014/11/hullinghorst-becomes-colorados-second-female-house.html

[6]

[7]

[8]

[9]

[10]

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[35]

title: Dickey Lee Hullinghorst

question: What does the article say about Dickey Lee Hullinghorst's career before her candidacy for the state house seat?

answer: Hullinghorst worked as Intergovernmental Relations Director for Boulder County, Colorado. Hullinghorst has served on a number of local boards and commissions and helped found the Colorado Open Lands Board. She was a delegate to the 1976 Democratic National Convention. She has also served on the executive committee of the Colorado Democratic Party,[19] and vice-president of the Colorado Women's Political Caucus.

question: What does the article say about Dickey Lee Hullinghorst's legislative career?

answer: Hullinghorst announced her candidacy for the state house seat in October 2007 and won the general election with 75 percent of the popular vote. She was named to seats on the House Agriculture and Natural Resources Committee and the House State, Veterans, and Military Affairs Committee for the 2009 legislative session, and to the House Appropriations Committee for the 2010 legislative session. Hullinghorst was reelected by a wide margin of 80% to 20% in the 2012 General Election.

question: What does the article say about Hullinghorst's health issues?


text:
From A Wiki of Ice and Fire

Jump to: navigation, search

[]

The Iron Bank, by Logan Feliciano © Fantasy Flight Games

The IRON BANK is the main bank of Braavos. It is one of the wealthiest banks of the known world and often lends money to outsiders, such as archons, triarchs, and the Lord of the Seven Kingdoms.[1][2] The bank is famous for its discretion and secrecy.[2] A common saying among the Braavosi is "The Iron Bank will have its due."[1]

Contents

-   1 Organization
-   2 History
-   3 Recent Events
    -   3.1 _A Game of Thrones_
    -   3.2 _A Clash of Kings_
    -   3.3 _A Feast for Crows_
    -   3.4 _A Dance with Dragons_
    -   3.5 _The Winds of Winter_
-   4 Known Bankers
-   5 Quotes
-   6 References

Organization

Powerful Braavosi own shares in the bank, sit on its secret councils, and have a voice in selecting the men who lead it. Keyholders proudly display ceremonial keys on formal occasions.[2] The bank's ships dock at the Purple Harbor of Braavos.[3]

Though all the Free Cities have their own banks, the Iron Bank is richer and more powerful than the others combined and has a fearsome reputation when collecting debts.[3] When princes or kings default on their debts or are foolish enough not to honor their agreements with the Iron Bank, the Iron Bank supports new princes and kings to appear. These new princes and kings then honor the previous debt along with paying back the money the bank loaned them in claiming their new power, lest they suffer the same fate as their predecessors.[3]

History

Maesters have learned of some the Iron Bank's history and dealings thanks to Archmaester Matthar's _The Origins of the Iron Bank and Braavos_. According to Matthar, the Iron Bank was founded by sixteen men and seven women who hid valuables in an abandoned iron mine shortly after the foundation of Braavos.[2] As the mine's chambers filled with treasures, a bank was formed to utilize the wealth. Each of the twenty-three founders had a key to these great subterranean vaults, and their descendants—now numbering at least one thousand—are known as "keyholders".[2]

Prior to the Uncloaking, Uthero Zalyne, Sealord of Braavos, sent envoys from the Iron Bank to negotiate with the Valyrian Freehold. The bank paid settlements to the grandchildren of the shipowners whose vessels had been seized by the fugitive founders of Braavos, but not for the slaves.[2]

In 41 AC, an envoy of the Iron Bank traveled to Oldtown to meet with Lord Martyn Hightower.[4] Rego Draz, master of coin for King Jaehaerys I Targaryen, borrowed from the Iron Bank.[5] After selling three stolen dragon eggs to the Sealord, Elissa Farman invested her gold in the Iron Bank so she could finance the building of _Sun Chaser_.[6] In 56 AC, an envoy of the bank visited the Red Keep to collect the annual payment of the loan and denied knowledge of Elissa's actions to King Jaehaerys. Meeting with Septon Barth, the Sealord urged the bank to forgive the principal of Rego's loan.[7]

During the Dance of the Dragons in Westeros, Ser Tyland Lannister of the greens entrusted one quarter of the crown's gold from the royal treasury to the Iron Bank for safekeeping.[8] During the regency of Aegon III, the lending of gold by Tyland to lords caused a rift between the Iron Throne of Westeros and the Iron Bank of Braavos.[9] In return for a large indemnity, the Sealord agreed with Lord Manfryd Mooton to forgive the attack on the Braavosi fleet by Lord Alyn Velaryon during the Daughters' War. Lord Unwin Peake was forced to borrow from the Iron Bank to help pay the indemnity, however.[10] The Iron Bank was temporarily eclipsed by the Rogare Bank of Lys during the Lysene Spring; some suspected Braavosi bankers of having hired Faceless Men to assassinate the brothers Lysandro and Drazenko Rogare. Moredo Rogare borrowed money from the Iron Bank and sailed for Tyrosh.[11] Lord Cregan Stark borrowed a huge sum from the Iron Bank to feed his northern people in 135 AC.[11]

Ser Michael Manwoody was an envoy of the Iron Throne to the Iron Bank during the reign of King Baelor I Targaryen.[12] Arguing with the Iron Bank in 267 AC over debts from his father, Jaehaerys II, the Mad King Aerys II considered expanding his royal fleet to challenge the Titan of Braavos.[13]

Recent Events

_A Game of Thrones_

Lord Eddard Stark, the Hand of the King, learns the Iron Throne of Westeros owes a large sum of money that Petyr Baelish, the master of coin, borrowed from the Iron Bank to cover King Robert I Baratheon's spending.[14]

_A Clash of Kings_

Bronn informs Tyrion Lannister, the acting Hand to King Joffrey I Baratheon, that a moneylender from Braavos has come to the city and requests to see the king for payment on some loans. Tyrion tells Bronn to send the moneylender to Petyr to keep him busy.[15]

_A Feast for Crows_

Queen Regent Cersei Lannister and the small council decides to defer payments on the loans they have from the Iron Bank. Grand Maester Pycelle is the only one who objects and tries to warn her of the problems it will cause, but Cersei rejects his advice.[1]

In response to the Iron Throne's decision, the Iron Bank begins calling in outstanding debts from all over the Seven Kingdoms and refusing all new loans, causing economic chaos throughout Westeros.[16]

Noho Dimittis is sent by the Bank to the Iron Throne to collect the debt, but is told by Cersei that the Iron Bank will only get its money when the rebellion is over.[17]

_A Dance with Dragons_

[]

Tycho Nestoris, an envoy from the Iron Bank, arrives at the Wall via Eastwatch-by-the-Sea. The Iron Bank plans to help Stannis Baratheon's claim on the condition that he honors the debts the Iron Throne owes the bank. While present at Castle Black, Jon Snow, the new Lord Commander, makes arrangements with the envoy to borrow from the Iron Bank so the Night's Watch can buy food and supplies to see them through the approaching winter.[3]

Tycho travels to Deepwood Motte, where he pays a ransom for the ironborn which Lady Sybelle Glover accepts for the king. He travels through the snow to Winterfell looking for Stannis. Stannis is not there, but he finds Mors Umber outside the gates with some young boys. Nestoris also takes Theon Greyjoy and "Arya Stark" (Jeyne Poole), who were found by Umber after their escape from Winterfell. After three days they arrive at Stannis's camp in a crofters' village.[18]

Ser Harys Swyft, the master of coin under Lord Regent Kevan Lannister, has written to the banks of both Pentos and Myr in order to gain the crown a new loan so they can placate the Iron Bank of Braavos, but so far he has been unsuccessful. Before his death, Kevan suggests Harys travel to Braavos and treat with the bank in person.[19]

_The Winds of Winter_

+-----------------------------------+-----------------------------------+
| [Content.png]                     | WARNING                           |
|                                   | This information has thus far     |
|                                   | been released in a sample chapter |
|                                   | for _The Winds of Winter_, and    |
|                                   | might therefore not be in         |
|                                   | finalized form. Keep in mind that |
|                                   | the content as described below is |
|                                   | still subject to change.          |
+-----------------------------------+-----------------------------------+

Tycho and Stannis meet and sign a contract. Ser Justin Massey is ordered to escort Tycho safely back to the Wall and from there sail to Braavos with him and use the newfound wealth of the Iron Bank to hire sellsword companies for Stannis's cause.[20]

Ser Harys Swyft travels to Braavos to parlay with the Iron Bank.[21]

Known Bankers

-   Bessaro Reyaan, a keyholder
-   Noho Dimittis, an envoy to the Red Keep
-   Tycho Nestoris, an envoy to Stannis Baratheon

Quotes

  CERSEI: A Lannister pays his debts.
  PYCELLE: The Braavosi have a saying too. The Iron Bank will have its due, they say.[1]

  We who serve the Iron Bank face death full as often as you who serve the Iron Throne.[3]

  The Iron Bank is always glad to be of service.[20]

References

1.

    ↑ 1.0 1.1 1.2 1.3 _A Feast for Crows_, Chapter 17, Cersei IV.
2.

    ↑ 2.0 2.1 2.2 2.3 2.4 2.5 _The World of Ice & Fire_, The Free Cities: Braavos.
3.

    ↑ 3.0 3.1 3.2 3.3 3.4 _A Dance with Dragons_, Chapter 44, Jon IX.
4.

    ↑ _Fire & Blood_, The Sons of the Dragon.
5.

    ↑ _Fire & Blood_, A Time of Testing - The Realm Remade.
6.

    ↑ _Fire & Blood_, Birth, Death, and Betrayal Under King Jaehaerys I.
7.

    ↑ _Fire & Blood_, Jaehaerys and Alysanne - Their Triumphs and Tragedies.
8.

    ↑ _Fire & Blood_, The Dying of the Dragons - The Blacks and the Greens.
9.

    ↑ _Fire & Blood_, Under the Regents - The Hooded Hand.
10.

    ↑ _Fire & Blood_, Under the Regents - War and Peace and Cattle Shows.
11.

    ↑ 11.0 11.1 _Fire & Blood_, The Lysene Spring and the End of Regency.
12.

    ↑ _The World of Ice & Fire_, The Targaryen Kings: Baelor I.
13.

    ↑ _The World of Ice & Fire_, The Targaryen Kings: Aerys II.
14.

    ↑ _A Game of Thrones_, Chapter 20, Eddard IV.
15.

    ↑ _A Clash of Kings_, Chapter 17, Tyrion IV.
16.

    ↑ _A Feast for Crows_, Chapter 36, Cersei VIII.
17.

    ↑ _A Feast for Crows_, Chapter 24, Cersei V.
18.

    ↑ _A Dance with Dragons_, Chapter 62, The Sacrifice.
19.

    ↑ _A Dance with Dragons_, Epilogue.
20.

    ↑ 20.0 20.1 _The Winds of Winter_, Theon I
21.

    ↑ _The Winds of Winter_, Mercy

-   v
-   d
-   e

Commerce and banking organizations

-   Bank of Oldtown
-   Iron Bank of Braavos
-   Rogare Bank of Lys
-   Qarth merchant guilds:
    -   Ancient Guild of Spicers
    -   Thirteen
    -   Tourmaline Brotherhood

question: What is the primary focus of the article?

answer: The Iron Bank

question: What is the Iron Bank?

answer: The main bank of Braavos. It is one of the wealthiest banks of the known world.

question: Summarize the A Dance with Dragons section of the article.

answer: The Iron Bank plans to support Stannis Baratheon's claim and sends an envoy named Tycho Nestoris to the Wall. Jon Snow makes arrangements to borrow from the bank. Tycho then goes looking for Stannis. Ser Harys Swyft attempts to borrow from the banks of Pentos and Myr to appease the Iron Bank.

question: When was the Iron Bank first established?

answer: The Iron Bank was founded shortly after the foundation of Braavos.

question: Write a ~3 sentence summary.

answer: The article focuses on the history of the Iron Bank, the main bank of Braavos and one of the wealthiest in the known world. It was formed shortly after the foundation of Braavos. The article details the history and dealings of the bank.


text:
Voices from the television, white noise to his vacant mind. Two men were talking to each other and he didn't see their faces. He saw moving lips. The stench of the apartment did not bother him. Half eaten food rotted on the floor. The most recent of this food was a bowl of somewhat eaten jello. It sat still on the table next to the couch where a mindless man sat.
Who is this man? Most would say he's a brilliant writer of a dozen famous short stories; each translated into a dozen languages and read by much more than a dozen people. The characters in his stories have been analyzed time and time again. They are the best creations of his writing. His characters are the story. Their complexities are deeper than most imagine. This writer is a genius.
But at this moment, he isn't a famous writer. He is Alfred Jones, the newest of his characters. You see, when the writer writes, he locks himself in his apartment for many months. He eats, but he doesn't finish. He turns on the TV and enters his imagination, unaware of reality, to build his characters for hours. He writes it all down when he awakes at midnight. He becomes his characters during these trances.
He jolted wide awake. Is it midnight? He checked the time through a TV and found it was 9:00. Two men were talking on a screen. Who are these two men, Sally? He looked around. Sally was not there. This isn't my place. Did I get drunk today? No, I couldn't have. So how did I get here?
The man stood up, puzzled by what was happening. The jello will stink, the jello will stink. He was startled by this incoherent thought. It wasn't his. Who was that?! WHO said that?! He grabbed a couch, trying for a grip of the demented reality. WHERE AM I?! The man ran to a bathroom. The jello will stink, the jello will-
He screamed. He wanted to vomit. Was he going crazy? Water rushed through the man's fingers as he washed his face. This will wake me up! It will, it will, it will, IT WILL.
He looked up to a mirror. Screams echoed in a bathroom. This isn't him! This isn't him! WHO IS THIS FACE?! WHO IS THIS?! He screamed and screamed. He clawed at the face. Is it a mask? He pulled but it wouldn't come off. Stink jello stink. The man smashed the face into a mirror. He's just dreaming right now! This can't be real. Blood trickled down the mangled face. Shards of mirror were dug into skin. They were deep.
Where's your wallet? I don't know.
Go find it. Who are you?
The man walked of a bathroom. Blood dripped onto a floor. Why is my face on fire? The man went towards a room. My face hurts. Sally? Help me. Jello stink.
I opened a door. Where is the wallet? Put out the fire. A wallet was on a bed. Whose wallet is that? It's mine. It's his. Put out the fire.
He picked up a wallet. I opened it up. I read a name on a license. Stephen King.
Who am I?

title: The Writer

question: Who are the two men talking to each other?

answer: They are random characters on a TV show a man is mindlessly watching.

question: What is Stephen King doing in the story?

answer: The protagonist found a wallet on the bed with a license registered to Stephen King.

question: How is Sally related to the man eating jello?

answer: It might be implied that she's the man's wife.

question: Why is the man awake at midnight?

answer: The man is a writer and wakes up at midnight to write about his characters.

question: Why is the man getting hysterical?

answer: Because he wakes up in an apartment he doesn't recognize and when he looks at himself in the mirror, he sees a different person.

question: Why is the man looking for his wallet?

answer: To find out who he is.

question: Write a ~3 sentence summary.

answer: A man wakes up in the middle of the night and realizes that he isn't in his place, and when he looks at himself in the mirror, he sees a different person. He starts to panic, thinking he is dreaming. He finds a wallet on the bed, and it has a license registered to Stephen King.


text:
I'm looking for a short story about a man who uses his reanimated wife as a security system.  The story begins in a library, where the narrator notices the man calling home at exactly the same time every day, and ends with the narrator visiting the man's house to discover the secret.

This is a very creepy story.  I read it around fifteen years ago in either Best American Mystery Stories, or an anthology.  If you can find it, you'll help me stop obsessing about it, and have an awesome short story for Halloween!

title: Searching for Forgotten Scary Short Story

question: Write a ~1 sentence summary.

answer: A post searching for a forgotten scary short story.


text:
A busy and jumbled week. A productive week. And heading into a working weekend.

Here's what I accomplished this week.

Local events: Health, faith, and arts and entertainment calendars: where to find them? Under the sections tab on the left hand side of http://www.theherald-news.com/. Click on "features" and the topics drop down. Assembled by moi.

More local events: Gotta Do It, also by me, runs each Sunday in the People section.

Community news: Again, under the sections tab, under features, and by topic. Updates are posted on these days in print and web and in web on other days as I have the time: Monday (pets), Tuesday (health), Thursday (faith), Friday (arts and entertainment), and Sunday (people).

Daily updates: I do post the briefs and calendars on Twitter during the week, so you're welcome to follow me at @Denise_Unland61.

BryonySeries stuff: I post curated content relating to the BryonySeries at @BryonySeries. And assorted related content at www.facebook.com/BryonySeries.

Thank you for reading The Herald-News. And for reading this blog. Your support is greatly appreciated.

_SIX DAYS TO REMEMBER: PLAINFIELD TEEN ONLY ONE IN THE STATE WITH THIS OPPORTUNITY_

_By Megan Schuller_

The program took place during defense week so Capitol Hill was busy that week James M. Durant IV said.

_AN EXTRAORDINARY LIFE: THE POIGNANT STORY BEHIND THIS JOLIET RESTAURANT'S UNUSUAL NAME_

When the dream finally came true, Aisha Walker wasn't there to see it. She died three weeks before the grand opening on March 24, 2010.

_PETS OF THE WEEK: JULY 24_

Read the caption of each photo to find out about that pet, including where he or she can be adopted.

_MINOOKA WOMAN IS ALIVE TODAY BECAUSE 32 STRANGERS CARED_

Amy Lukasik is currently calling potential donors to schedule appointments for the councils' next blood drive on July 29 since she "can't give blood yet."

_CHANNAHON/MINOOKA KNIGHTS HOLDING BLOOD DRIVE JULY 29_

John Bukowski of Minooka is involved for two reasons. One may surprise you.

_MYSTERY DINER: JOLIET'S FRIACO'S RESTAURANT & CANTINA SERVES UP AUTHENTIC MEXICAN FOOD_

The appetizer menu has everything from a sampler platter ($14.99) to queso fundido ($9.99) to bruschetta ($8.99 or $10.99 with shrimp) but we were up for that. There are also several varieties of nachos ($8.49 for cheese only to $13.49 for fajita nachos).

_MYSTERY DINER: SPICY OPTIONS AND TACO SPECIAL AT MORRIS' GREENHORN SALOON & EATERY_

The server was friendly and informed me immediately of the taco and margarita specials. Those will come in due time, I decided, but first I needed a drink and appetizer to start.

_BROTHER ED IS BACK IN JOLIET – AND HERE'S WHY_

Brother Ed Arambasich was just transferred to San Francisco to work with the poor when his kidneys failed.

Diagnosis: multiple myeloma. The kidneys recovered and then it was his turn.

"They asked me to come back home to the Midwest to be around my family and friends and get better," Arambasich said.

_SHE'S A LITTLE BIT COUNTRY – AND NOW YOU CAN BE, TOO_

It took two and half a years to design the barn, from creating plans to finding the right Amish crew to build it, Katy Siegel said.

"We wanted that traditional look with wood pegs," Siegel said. "There were no power tools used. There were no screws used. It's gorgeous, like they used back in the day."

_ARTWORKS: JOLIET MUSIC EDUCATOR QUARTERFINALIST FOR AWARD_

_By Jessie Spangler _

If Charles Morgan wins, he will receive a grant for JJC and attend the 60th Annual Grammy Awards in New York.

question: What kind of newspaper is the Herald News and what kind of readers does it target?

answer: The Herald News appears to be an online digital newspaper for a small town. The news site covers many local events and fare. The news is limited mostly to a limited geographical area, as such, the readers for the webpage are the people who live in the locale as those living outside the area of the news would have no interest in the information.


text:
Mark was a regular guy. Or at least he thought so. He didn't live a super exciting life. Woke up every morning, brushed his teeth, ate breakfast, got dressed for work, packed his lunch, got in his car,and went to work.

At work Mark was an accountant, spending his hours punching numbers. Add. Subtract. Multiply. Divide. At lunch time he went to the cafe to eat his lunch, which usually consisted of a sandwich, an apple, a greek yogurt, and occasionally a small desert. Usualy he would also converse with his co-worker, Dave.

"Hey Dave, how was her recital last night?"

"Oh not bad, she's finally getting the hang of it."

Their conversations never lasted long. He would usually awkwardly just finish lunch, walk away, and not pick up the conversation again until lunch time the next day. You could say he was introverted.

He liked spending the little free time he had on his own, he never tried meeting girls, because he never had the time. Ever since he was a kid, he had been on the less social side. Pretty far on the less social side actually.

So far in his life he had not done a single spontaneous thing. As far as his life had gone on, it was 100% routine. His heart never skipped a beat. In fact, it stayed in perfect rhythm. Until now.

When Mark was asleep, a thunderstorm had occurred, resetting his alarm clock. His sleep cycle would have woken him up naturally, had he not had trouble getting to sleep because of the thunderstorm.

He woke up a frightening five minutes late. Freaking out about not being on schedule, he rushed his shower, forgetting to shampoo. When he dressed up for work, he put his right sock on his left foot, and his left sock on his right foot. He even forgot to pack his apple.

The day at work was a dreadful one. He was in a bad mood about the combination of the horrible things that happened. such a bad mood that he didn't even talk to Dave.

That day when he got home he was exhausted. His entire life had been in perfect rhythm until today. So he just got home and crashed. Fell asleep faster than ever before.

The next day was a bit of a blur. He had a headache the entire day. He did shape up enough to strike up a conversation with his co-worker however.

"You know Bill, I had the weirdest dream last", he said

"well what was it about, kurt?", Bill replied

"huh... well, I can't really remember it now. Something about an office"

"well", Bill replied "We better get back to work. This guy's transmission isn't going to fix itself."

title: Reality

question: Who are the main characters of the story?

answer: Mark, Dan, Bill, and Kurt.

question: What is Mark's relationship with Dave?

answer: They're co-workers.

question: Why was Mark in a bad mood at work?

answer: A thunderstorm reset his alarm clock and he woke up five minutes late, disrupting the rhythm of his entire day.

question: Who are Bill and Kurt?

answer: It appears that Mark is actually Kurt, a mechanic. Kurt dreamed about being Mark and working in an office. He tells Bill, his co-worker about his dream. In Kurt's dream, Bill is Dave.

question: Write a ~5 sentence summary.

answer: Kurt is a mechanic who has a weird dream of being Mark, an introverted accountant who lives a monotonous life void of spontaneity and friends. Mark does the same things every day, from wearing his socks to shallow lunchtime chats with his co-worker, Dave. When a thunderstorm resets his alarm clock, Mark wakes up five minutes late, disrupting the rhythm of his entire day which leads to a dreadful day at the office where he doesn't even talk to Dave. Mark sleeps it off at home and wakes up the next day as Kurt, whose day is a blur and is now sporting a headache. Kurt can't fully recall the dream when he talks to Bill, another mechanic.


text:
I used to be frustrated by the inevitability of waves.  I would hurl myself against them with all my strength, body slapping broad-side into the ambling hill of water, trying with all my might to make an example, set a precedent, assert my sentient dominance over the senseless redundancy of nature.  It was a battle of wills and I, being blessed with Will, was the clear favorite.
Naturally, I lost every time.  Each wave was followed inexorably by another, and red-chested and infuriated by the ocean’s indifference to my presence, I would gather myself for another offensive.
Tiring of this, I would alter my strategy and resign myself to building sandcastles with moats carefully situated just at the limit of the obliging tide; or constructing palaces for sojourning crabs, nomadic despots who would signal their gratitude for my hospitality with clumsy sideways curtsies.  Or something like that.
I was jealous of the older boys on their jet skis, their casual indifference to the forces that stymied me, skimming the surface like sleek cars on an undulating pavement, surgically slicing its skin, as unimpressed with their medium of travel as it was with me, their artificial waves trailing them, spreading out like a slow Japanese fan, criss-crossing at odd angles to their larger, slower cousins.

*          *          *          *          *

It’s been decades since I’ve been to the ocean, I realize as I leave the hospital in the cobalt light of the pre-dawn, but my feet remember the way.  With a nod to the stoic palms on Cass Street I turn left, and sand supplants cement.  I can’t feel its texture through my leather soles but it gives way deferentially under my weight.  I don’t break stride, even as the tiny waves make a play for my kneecaps.  When the water is deep enough I squat, submerging myself to the neck.
I am weightless.  I am a buoy.  The ocean cycles around me and through me and I am utterly unobtrusive.  It rocks me like a baby, lovingly indifferent to my will.  Tonight, I will dream of its momentum.

title: My Feet Knew the Way

question: What lesson did the protagonist learn by the end?

answer: Acting in harmony with nature is a better way of life than opposing it.

question: What is the central message of the story?

answer: It's probably that there's wisdom in not forcing one's will on everything.

question: What time period does the story take place?

answer: When the main character is a child, there are jet skis. That means the earliest would be the 1970s. The story must be taking place anytime later than that.

question: Who is the main character?

answer: He seems to be a young boy at the beginning and an old man at the end.

question: Write a ~4 sentence summary.

answer: A young boy throws himself at the waves, to make it stop by sheer force of will. He's frustrated that the ocean doesn't yield to his will. As an old man, he comes back to the beach and enters the ocean. Weightless, he appreciates the indifference of the ocean to his will.


text:
The flame has flickered out on Ballarat's popular Carols by Candlelight service, which has been cancelled after almost 50 years largely because of a lack of volunteer support.

With hundreds of hours of organisation and preparation required for the annual Christmas singalong, the work had fallen to just a handful of volunteers from the churches of Ballarat.

Shayne Westblade from Kardinia Church said it was a hard decision, but the organising committee felt it had little choice.

  It has been an event that has brought local families together through music at such a wonderful time of the year for over 40 years.

  BALLARAT MAYOR SAMANTHA MCINTOSH

The committee's decision to cancel the Christmas tradition was posted to Facebook on Tuesday afternoon, citing lack of support through resources and finances.

"The Ballarat Carols Event has been part of the Ballarat Community for the past 40 years, it will be sadly missed. We would like to thank all Churches, Community Groups, Service providers and the people of Ballarat for their support over the years, it has been an honour to serve the community with this gift at Christmas," the committee said in their statement.

"It is with sadness that we inform the Ballarat Community that the Ballarat Carols for 2019 will not be proceeding. An event of this size requires considerable amount of support through resources and finances which despite our best efforts have not been forthcoming."

Mr Westblade said social media anger in the hours after the initial announcement had been misplaced.

"People are pointing the finger at council but it's not a result of council funding, it's simply resourcing," Mr Westblade said.

  Unless it's taken up by some other organisation it's going to deprive the Ballarat community of carols by candlelight coming up to Christmas.

  3BA CHRISTMAS APPEAL FOUNDER PETER CALIGARI

"It was a very hard decision, a hard conversation and when the network got together to discuss this direction ... we had people who had been involved for up to 10 years.

"When you are the last man standing in the room, when no one else comes in to the room ... our resources are very slim."

Ballarat Carols has been running for 48 years, having started life in a Ballarat backyard before spending several decades known as the Eureka Carols, held in Eureka Gardens, before moving to the North Gardens and finally, Mars Stadium.

The move to Mars Stadium last year was to allow the event to grow and reduce infrastructure costs.

The previous permit to hold the event at North Gardens had capped the audience at 5000 people.

[SINGALONG: The crowd at the 2018 Carols by Candlelight event which was held for the first time at Mars Stadium. Picture: Kate Healy]

__ SINGALONG: The crowd at the 2018 Carols by Candlelight event which was held for the first time at Mars Stadium. Picture: Kate Healy

City of Ballarat mayor Samantha McIntosh said she was saddened to hear of the cancellation of the 2019 Carols by Candlelight, and thanked the committee for their work.

Council had provided $52,875 of funding toward the carols concert over the past seven years, and last year helped move the event to Mars Stadium to help remove event infrastructure costs.

"It has been an event that has brought local families together through music at such a wonderful time of the year for over 40 years," Cr McIntosh said.

"We have been contacted by the committee who have sadly come to the decision it is no longer possible for them to stage the event due mainly to a lack of the large amount of resources it involves."

Cr McIntosh said council would meet with Carols by Candlelight organisers to discuss what support it can provide to ensure the Christmas event can hopefully continue in to the future.

A GoFundMe campaignwas launched within hours of the event's cancellation, but Mr Westblade said it was unnecessary.

"It's not about the money," he said.

Until 2000 there were two separate Carols by Candlelight events in Ballarat - one held by a network of local churches and one by 3BA - but the two services merged and the 3BA Christmas Appeal became a beneficiary of the combined carols service.

3BA Christmas Appeal founder Peter Caligari said the loss of the carols would have an impact on the appeal and the agencies and people it supports.

[Peter Caligari and Ballarat deputy mayor Daniel Moloney at the launch of the 2017 3BA Christmas appeal. ]

__ Peter Caligari and Ballarat deputy mayor Daniel Moloney at the launch of the 2017 3BA Christmas appeal.

"The sad part about it is it will be a loss to the Ballarat community at Christmas and it will also represent some monetary loss to the appeal."

Mr Caligari said the already-popular Buninyong Carols by Candlelight service, which also supports the 3BA Christmas Appeal, would most likely grow as a result of the lack of a similar concert in Ballarat.

"Unless it's taken up by some other organisation it's going to deprive the Ballarat community of carols by candlelight coming up to Christmas," he said.

HAVE YOU SIGNED UP TO THE COURIER'S DAILY NEWSLETTER AND BREAKING NEWS EMAILS? YOU CAN REGISTER BELOW AND MAKE SURE YOU ARE UP TO DATE WITH EVERYTHING THAT'S HAPPENING IN BALLARAT.

question: What does the text say about the reason for canceling?

answer: Carols by Candlelight in Ballarat was canceled because of a lack of volunteer support, resources, and funding. Organization of the event had fallen upon a small group of church volunteers. The community attempted to raise money to save it, but a church member said it was not a money issue, implying a lack of volunteer support.

question: What does the text say about Peter Caligari?

answer: Peter Caligari is the founder of the 3BA Christmas Appeal. The appeal benefited from donations raised by the Ballarat Carols by Candlelight event. He said the loss of the event would have an impact on the appeal, but that the nearby Buninyong Carols by Candlelight, which also supports the appeal, would likely grow as a result. Caligari is pictured with Ballarat Deputy Mayor Daniel Moloney in 2017.

question: What does the text say about Ballarat?

answer: Ballarat is a council area that hosted a Carols by Candlelight event every year for 48 years, until its cancelation in 2019. The mayor at the time was Samantha McIntosh. There are several churches involved in the community, including Kardinia Church.

question: What does the text say about homelessness?


text:
BRENT STUART LILLIBRIDGE (born September 18, 1983) is an American former professional baseball utility player. He played in Major League Baseball (MLB) for the Atlanta Braves, Chicago White Sox, Boston Red Sox, Cleveland Indians, Chicago Cubs and New York Yankees. He was known for his versatile playing skills and defensive prowess in the outfield. As a utility player, he started at every position except pitcher and catcher in his career.

Amateur career

Lillibridge attended Henry M. Jackson High School in Mill Creek, Washington.[1]

Lillibridge played for the Washington Huskies baseball program for three seasons, where he was named to the All-Pac-10 Conference Team for three straight seasons.[2][3] In 2004, he played collegiate summer baseball with the Harwich Mariners of the Cape Cod Baseball League.[4]

Professional career

Pittsburgh Pirates

The Pittsburgh Pirates selected Lillibridge in the fourth round, with the 121st overall selection, of the 2005 MLB draft.[5]

[Lillibridge during his tenure with the Atlanta Braves in 2008]

Atlanta Braves

On January 17, 2007, the Pirates traded Lillibridge with Mike Gonzalez to the Atlanta Braves for Adam LaRoche and Jamie Romak.[6]

Lillibridge began the season in Triple-A for the Richmond Braves. He played 19 games and batted .195 with one home run before his contract was purchased on April 26, 2008.[7] He made his major league debut on that same day against the New York Mets and had four at bats and struck out three times. He doubled for his first major league hit on June 25, 2008 at Toronto.

On July 12, 2008 in a game against the San Diego Padres at Petco Park, Lillibridge hit his first major league home run against relief pitcher Joe Thatcher.[8]

Chicago White Sox

On December 4, 2008, the Braves traded Lillibridge, Tyler Flowers, Jon Gilmore, and Santos Rodriguez to the Chicago White Sox for Javier Vázquez and Boone Logan.[9]

On April 11, 2011, Lillibridge hit a fifth-inning home run off Dallas Braden. It was the 10,000th home run hit in the 112-year history of White Sox baseball.[10]

Lillibridge garnered media coverage after he made two back-to-back, game-saving and game-ending defensive catches while playing right field on April 26, 2011. The catches comprised the two final outs of a game played against the New York Yankees in Yankee Stadium and resulted in the White Sox getting the victory.[11]

Boston Red Sox

On June 24, 2012, Lillibridge was traded to the Boston Red Sox with Zach Stewart for Kevin Youkilis and cash.[12] The Red Sox designated him for assignment on July 16.

Cleveland Indians

Lillibridge was traded by Boston to the Cleveland Indians on July 24, for minor league pitcher José De La Torre.[13] On November 20, 2012, Lillibridge was assigned outright to the Indians Triple-A affiliate Columbus Clippers.[14][15] Lillibridge declined the assignment to Columbus and was granted free agency on November 26.

Chicago Cubs

[Lillibridge playing for the Iowa Cubs, triple-A affiliates of the Chicago Cubs, in ] On January 10, 2013, Lillibridge signed a minor league contract with the Chicago Cubs.[16] On March 31, the Cubs added Lillibridge to their major league active roster.[17][18] He was designated for assignment on April 16, 2013.[19] On April 19, Lillibridge cleared waivers, and was assigned to the Triple-A Iowa Cubs of the Pacific Coast League.[20]

New York Yankees

On June 21, 2013, Lillibridge was traded to the New York Yankees for cash considerations.[21] The Yankees promoted Lillibridge to the major leagues when they placed Derek Jeter on the disabled list on July 19.[22] He was designated for assignment to make room for the activation of Alex Rodriguez on August 5.[23] He was outrighted from the 40-man roster and optioned to Triple-A on August 9.[24] He declared free agency on October 1.

Texas Rangers

Lillibridge signed a minor league deal with the Texas Rangers on December 12, 2013.[25] He was assigned to the minor league camp on March 22, 2014 failing to make the Rangers' opening day roster.[26] He became a free agent after the 2014 season and had chosen to retire by the start of the 2015 season.[27][28]

Personal life

Lillibridge is married to Stephanie, with whom he has two children.[29] Lillibridge is a Christian, and his invitation to baseball player Steven Souza to attend church with him led to Souza becoming baptized.[30]

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title: Brent Lillibridge

question: List all of the teams Lillibridge has played for.

answer: Pittsburgh Pirates, Atlanta Braves, Chicago White Sox, Boston Red Sox, Cleveland Indians, Chicago Cubs, New York Yankees, Texas Rangers. In all Lillibridge has played for eight teams. He also played for the Washinton Huskies baseball program in college, and on a collegiate summer baseball team, the Harwich Mariners.

question: Summarize Lillibridge's career with the Atlanta Braves.

answer: He was traded to the Braves on January 17, 2007. He began the season Triple-A. He played 19 games and batted .195 with one home run before his contract was purchased. He made his major league review against the New York Mets and had four at bats and struck out three times. On July 12, 2008, he hit his first major league home run against relief pitcher Joe Thatcher.

question: Summarize Lillibridge's career with the Chicago White Sox.

answer: On December 4th 2008 he was traded to the Sox along with Tyler Flowers, Jon Gilmore and Santos Rodriguez. On April 11, 2011 Lillibridge his a fifth inning home run off Dallas Braden. It was the 10,000 homes run hit in the 112-year history of White Sox baseball. Lillibridge garnered media coverage after he made two back-to-back, game-saving and game-ending defensive catches while playing right field on April 26, 2011. This resulted in the White Sox getting the victory.

question: Summarize Lillibridge's career for the Chicago Cubs.

answer: He was signed for a minor league contract with the Chicago Cubs on January 10, 2013. On March 31, the Cubs added Lillibridge to their major league active roster. He was designated for assignment on April 16, 2013.


text:
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    On this adventurous, yet relaxed tour, you’ll hike through impressive mountains, forests, and national park trails. Furthermore, you can book one of the exciting mountain biking tours, experience the thrill of river rafting. Of course, don’t miss to explore the legendary ancient ruins of Peru and take in the cultures of Cusco and the nearby small towns.

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    Our awesome adventure tours

    For those of you who don’t know, Cusco was the old capital of the Inca Empire. The city’s surroundings are diverse and cover a little bit of everything: from the high Andes mountains to the flat plateau, from the rain forests to jungles, from valleys to canyons, and from wild rivers to calm lakes. For that reason, Cusco is a genuine paradise for adventure tours. Besides its amazing natural beauty, the city is also known for exceptionally intriguing history and culture.

    If you dream of having an authentic Peruvian adventure, tours in Cusco are one of the best ways to achieve it. We plan and organize everything for you, leaving you free to relax and really enjoy your Peruvian experience. Check out our adventure tours activities and choose the package that best suits your needs and preferences.

    Hiking tours

    Astonish hiking adventure tours

    Hiking tours around Cusco region are a great way to explore the heart of Peru’s stunning Andean mountains. Home to towering Longs Peak to up to 6,384 meters (20,944) feet which towers over the rest of the Andes, Cusco mountains are a paradise for hiking and backpacking tours. From an abundance of waterfalls, astonishing wildlife, pristine creeks and rivers to crystal clear lakes, tree-studded ridges, and soaring alpine peaks, there’s a lavish scenery to hold our attention.

    Our Cusco adventure hiking tours include hikes to Salkantay, Lares, Huchuy Qosqo, with mules supported treks. We’ll also take you to the famous Inca Trails with the amazing porters supported hikes. You can also find a day and half-day hikes near Cusco and Sacred Valley area. All trips are all-inclusive. Also, to make the most out of your trip to Peru, all of our hiking guides are award-winning.

    Send us an e-mail right now to learn more or to plan your Cusco adventure tours!

    __Machu Picchu Inca Trail (5 days)

    __The Classic Tour (4 days)

    Mountain biking adventures

    Awesome Cusco mountain biking adventures

    From popular mountain biking adventure trails to hidden gems or perfectly nestled camping sites, our tours offer the ultimate mountain biking vacations in Cusco. Whether you are an experienced biker or a beginner, we provide the best bikes and the trail that will meet your needs and the skill level.

    We offer a day to multi-day mountain bike tours that showcase the natural beauty of the Cusco region like no other. Whether it’s endless flowing single-track down the Andes mountains, exploring magnificent ancient cities or enjoying the rain forest, these trips will create memories that will last forever.

    See all destinations

    __Yuncaypata mountain biking (1/2 day)

    __Lares downhill MTB (1 day)

    __Huchuy Qosqo biking (1 day)

    __MTB from the mountains to the jungle (3 days)

    River rafting adventures

    The Thrill of River Rafting

    For most people, Cusco means Inca ruins and Machu Picchu. Yes, these fabulous ancient ruins are a definite must-see while in Peru. However, there are several other awesome tour activities to consider when visiting Cusco. One of the best experiences you’ll ever have is whitewater rafting tours. The rivers in Cusco are considered some of the world’s finest wilderness experiences, so don’t hesitate – book one of the thrilling Cusco rafting adventure tours today!

    Cusco whitewater rafting trips on a wide range of Peruvian rivers range from 1 to 12 days of wilderness adventures. Based on whitewater rafting levels and classifications, the rivers in our offer are rated from level II up to level V rapids. Rivers in Cusco are divided into numerous sections to fit all fitness levels, ages, and abilities.

    See all destinations

    __Apurimac rafting Black Canyon 1 day

    __Apurimac Black Canyon River Trip 2 days

    __The Apurimac Black Canyon 3 days

    __The full canyon River trip (6 days)

    Zip line trips

    Exciting Zip line adventures

    [Crossing the jungle zip line]Come join us for some of the best zip lining adventures in Cusco. Choose between assisted guided tours in the Sacred Valley or near Machu Picchu! Showcasing the best of the Cusco Mountains and Valleys, our zip line tours soar over a beautiful natural landscape, the Urubamba and Salkantay River, and lush vegetation and Valleys.

    In addition, our highly-trained guides will watch over and assist you as you glide through the fresh and crisp Cusco air. Regardless of your age or experience level, our zip line tour is sure to leave you and your family with lasting memories!

    Horseback riding

    Fun horseback riding

    [Riding on the Andes]Always wanted to try a horse riding? With the unique combination of impressive ruins in close proximity to exquisite and diverse nature, horse riding in Cusco is the perfect place to start a new adventure.

    You will be mesmerized by a spectacular landscape while relaxing in the wide-open spaces of the flat high lands of the Sacred Valley or climbing mountains with unique views of the Vilcabamba mountain range. Whether you are an adrenaline-seeking explorer or simply want to enjoy soaking up the scenery on a gentle stroll, horse riding is the perfect activity for any able-bodied adventurer!

    Stand Up paddleboard tours

    Invigorate Stand Up paddleboard tours

    If you’re looking for a lifetime experience in southern Peru, check out Cusco adventures stand up paddle boards. Our tours will take you paddling on Cusco’s pristine lakes and lagoons, known as the most beautiful lakes in the Cusco region. These amazing lakes are bustling with bird life. Our instructors will have you up and paddling in no time, equipped with a safe launch and landing techniques. Whether it is your first time or you are a seasoned pro — you’ll absolutely love your time spent with our experienced instructors and guides – all our guests do!

    See all destinations

    Multi-active tours

    Thrilling Multi-Sport Packages

    If you’re truly into the outdoors, then you’ll definitely want to explore it in different ways. After all, why choose just one and miss the thrill of multi-sport packages? For many years now, we have been offering packages that include multiple ways to experience Cusco and Machu Picchu iconic landscape. All our trips will bring you long-lasting memories. However, if you are looking for something unique, these are adventures that stand out.

    __Hiking MTB and rafting to Machu Picchu 5 days

    __MTB, rafting and hiking Machu Picchu 3 days

    __Hiking, cultural and rafting 16 days

    __Inca Trail, Apurimac River & Sacred valley (12 days)

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    Cusco Adventure Tours Specials

    We can proudly call ourselves Cusco adventure tours specialists! With the exceptional knowledge of the destinations, our staff is dedicated to professional courteous service and will make sure you and your group have an unforgettable time during your stay in Cusco.

    Listed below you will find descriptions of some of our most exclusive tours:

    Off the Beaten track From Cusco to Machu Picchu

    Off the Beaten track From Cusco to Machu Picchu (6 days)

    If you’d like to break away from the usual tourist crowds, but still experience a genuine Machu Picchu vacation, this is the perfect trip for you! Whether old or young, traveling alone or with a family or a large group, this trip which bring new exciting activities every day that should definitely not be missed!

    The Inca Trail and Amazon Rain-forest Vacation

    Unforgettable – The Inca Trail and Amazon Rain-forest Vacation 9 days

    The Inca Trail & The Amazon Rainforest trip is a great choice for those looking for aunique adventure. Choose from two to five-day hike in one of the most spectacular trails on earth, the Inca Trail and explore Cusco and the Sacred Valley. Or book your stay from three to six days in the astonishing Peruvian Amazon where you will have the opportunity to spot incredible wildlife such as canopy, zip line and more.

    Cusco Multi-Sport Highlights -The Inca Escapade

    Cusco Multi-Sport Highlights -The Inca Escapade (12 days)

    There are many other Cusco adventure tours that will undoubtedly create lifetime memories. Nevertheless, Cusco Multi-Sport Highlights -The Inca Escapade is without a doubt one of the best active vacation packages of all. The Apurimac tour is an unforgettable three-day rafting experience and a unique opportunity to enjoy a worry-free vacation with no stress and no schedules running to level II, III, IV and V rapids. The tour also includes a journey to the Sacred Valley, treasured by the Incas for its special natural beauty and geographical features. We usually end this tour with the Inca trail: four days hiking across mountains until we arrive at Machu Picchu.

    Taylor-made tours

    Taylor-made Cusco Adventure Tours

    Our specialized tailor-made department can pretty much cater to any requirement you may have. We will help you put together the dream holiday of a lifetime. Our extensive experience ensures we have access to a variety of options that can we can tailor to any of your needs and preferences.

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    Our accommodations

    While some tours include full camping in strategical places, other tours take place in remote areas where accommodation are scarce, so we use the best accommodations available in the area, but expect them to be basic and simple. In Machu Picchu Cusco and Sacred Valley we use 3 strong stars rated between 4 to 5 points in TripAdvisor and Booking com.

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    Frequently Asked Questions

    Didn’t you find what you are looking fore, check bellow to our most frequently asked questions or you can send us an e-mail if you have special questions.

    How to decide which Cusco adventure tour to book?

    People who don’t have much adventure tours experience often find the amount of information and choices confusing. To simplify the matters, we suggest the following. All in all, most of the Multi-active tours are ideal for first-time visitors as these are generally easier journeys with better infrastructure. For hiking activities, rafting and mountain biking, please check the level of difficulty or contact us for the clarification.

    What is included?

    Our Cusco adventure tours include everything from accommodation and transportation to professional gear and guides, to make sure you’re fully covered while enjoying your vacation in Peru.

    Private transportation: transportation on tour is a major component of all adventure activities. Our tours usually include road trips and at times combine long drives, bumpy roads and possible problems, such as digging a vehicle out of mud – a highlight of our journeys! These setbacks are always what you make of them, so please be prepared.

    A friendly tip: your crew will be very unhappy if you call them bus-drivers.

    Gear: All biking, river rafting, hiking SUP and Zip line gear is included. This includes:

    -   liners,
    -   pillows,
    -   sleeping pads to up 5 cm 2 1/2 sleeping high,
    -   sleeping bags (some tours however not include a sleeping bag in the price, check your itinerary inclusions).

    Guides: The success or failure of any tour depends heavily on the guides of the tour. We always keep this in mind when we recruit and train our guides – they are well-known across Cusco as great leaders, chefs, and drivers, so you can rest knowing that you’re in good hands.

    Who should go on an adventure tour?

    Our Cusco adventure tours are designed for everyone including families with small kids. However, there are some tours restricted only for people with some experience, especially those in Mountain biking and Rafting itineraries.

    Does Cusco adventure tours take place in high altitude?

    While some tours take place lower than 2000 meters, other tours include really high altitudes. Acclimatization adjusting is recommended before any tours that include the hike in the Andes.

    Are Machu Picchu tickets included in the adventure packages?

    Absolutely! Even more, our guides will make sure that you enjoy Machu Picchu and its attractions, including visiting the most memorable highlights. Please contact us for hikes to Huayna Picchu and Montaña Machu Picchu.

    Do I need a passport during the activities?

    Do I need a passport during the activities?

    If you can make a copy of your travel document, that would be great. To enter Machu Picchu, you need to show your passport together with a valid ticket.

    Do the guides speak English?

    Our guides are fluent in English and they know their work like no one else. In addition, all our guides are certified in advanced first aid with CPR and Rescue.

    Are vegetarian meals an option?

    One hundred percent. We can accommodate all kind of diets under no extra cost. Just provide your dietary plan in advance.

question: Where is Cusco?

answer: Cusco is in Peru. It was the old capital of the Inca Empire.

question: Where do the adventure hiking tours go to?

answer: The adventure hiking tours go to Salkantay, Lares, and Huchuy Qosqo.

question: What is the name of the company that offers all of these tours?

answer: Not answered.

question: How much do these tours cost?

answer: Not answered.

question: Write a ~2 sentence summary.

answer: This article gives a description of all of the services and tours offered in Cusco, Peru, by a tourist company based in the area. The tours include hiking tours, zip lines trips, horseback riding, and stand up paddleboard tours.


text:
-1-The Beginning

	It goes without saying that there has always been a rift between two food groups us humans eat, fruits and vegetables. As humans we have always just assumed that the rift would never escalade to the point where these food groups would develop so much anger that they begin a war. There had been an almost war earlier in time that almost destroyed an entire country, named by humans as the Potato Famine. In the fruit and vegetable world it goes by another name, the Slaughter of the Many Potatoes. Attributed to other variables, we overlooked what was right in front of us. Fruits had become upset with sharing the limelight with vegetables and decided to strike. Send a message. So they slaughtered many potatoes. There was nothing left but mashed mess. The vegetables and potatoes especially were not prepared for this surprise attack as it was a peacetime between the food groups. It came out of nowhere and almost turned into the first world war between vegetables and the fruits. If not for one savior. Tomato Tom. Tomato Tom was the first Tomato picked during that season of the slaughter. Tomato Tom was a trained warrior but also a great delegate. He spoke two languages, that of the fruits and that of the vegetables. He was able to single handedly get the two sides to the table and agree to a settlement. The fruits would no longer slaughter the potatoes as long as the sides would be referred to as ‘Fruits and Vegetables’ and not ‘Vegetables and Fruits’. It seemed easy enough, and we forgot as time went on about the Slaughter of the Many Potatoes. Until one night, and attack on the grape community set the course for war….

2-The Attack

The community of grapes was a peaceful one among fruits. They were the brains behind establishing stems to get members of their community nutrients. They often stayed together and were very close. It was one night when they least expected it – a peacetime. A spider entered their community with one target. His purpose was to find the Great Loom Grape. The GLG was one grape of legendary status. In fact, he was a member of the Fruit of the Loom society and they were the original Fruits to sign the aforementioned No Slaughter Potato Treaty. Now as a human, you may be wondering why a spider is involved in this attack and why is the GLG his target. Spiders are known accomplices for the vegetables and natural enemies of humans. When approached with this opportunity from the vegetables to spark a war that could possibly end humanity’s ability to eat Fruits or Vegetables Post-War, the spider jumped at it.  And the target. Taking out the Great Loom Grape would nullify the peace treaty and send shock waves throughout the fruit world that would surely start the war.
The Assassin Spider, known simply as Ace, made it into the grape bowl with ease. Simply lowered himself with his web while they slept. He made his way over the stem to where the Great Loom Grape slept. He then laid many eggs of baby spiders inside the Great Loom Grape’s head. The spiders hatched instantly due to the change in climate, killing the Great Loom Grape instantly. Being hungry, the spiders then proceeded to eat all the other grapes. Leaving only a stem and cobwebs behind.

3-War Begins

It wasn’t until the morning that Ben the Banana noticed that all the grapes were just dead as fuck. He yelled to the Protector Apples who proceeded to tell the King Watermelon. Within three minutes, war preparations were being made. King Watermelon himself would led his fruit troops into battle. Meanwhile, the vegetables were more than prepared. The element of surprise was sure to be to their advantage. Their king, Tomato Tom the Fifth…
Tomato Tom the Fifth was tired of hearing all the damn stories of his super great ancestor who stopped war. This Tom was amped after a night with a jello shot and decided he had the greatness in him to betray his family and its legacy. He realized only a fruit-vegetable hybrid could truly decide the outcome of the war. He just needed to start it. It was too easy. He had his troops ready and headed into battle.

4- Death A Common Ground

The war was quick, deadly and magnificent. The common fruits and vegetables were the first to go. The apples and oranges were met by the potatoes and celery. One apple with a family of seeds to feed was ravaged by a group of potatoes. And two pieces of celery were cut in half by a rolling orange. Henery the Orange was cut down by Tomato Tom. All that was left was a pool of orange juice..with pulp..
Eventually all that was left was Tomato Tom and King Watermelon. A final showdown ensued. But of course after witty banter. King Watermelon yelled to Tom to stop the madness. Tom replied that he got off on this kind of stuff. King Watermelon tried to reason with Tom, that his ancestor was doing the right thing – for everyone. Peace had allowed the fruits to flourish and Tom even slightly crazy and senile had realized that the vegetables had gotten the short end of the stick. He raised his little green thing on the top of a tomato to strike the King. Before Tom could lay a blow, the King simply rolled Tomato Tom over. Splashing Tomato Sauce all over. It was a mess and it was cleaned up a couple days later.

5- A fitting End

Seeing all the bloodshed as a human made me realize something. All my fruit and vegetables were old and rotten, except for the watermelon in my fridge. So I threw everything out except the watermelon. I cut that and ate it, because watermelon is good and I am in fact a black writer. And not to be racist but blacks can be writers too. You thought I was going to make a black and watermelon joke. But anyway, I went grocery shopping and got new food. No war. Also, this was my imagination. In no way, were any fruits or vegetables harmed, except ironically the watermelon who was the only survivor of the war. But I hope this tale helps you realize how much we depend on fruits and vegetables. Next time you see one, say thank you.

title: Battle of Fruits and Vegetables

question: Why is there a rift between fruits and vegetables?

answer: It's not clear, but the first world war between fruits and vegetables was because fruits were mad they had to share the limelight with vegetables during the Potato famine.

question: Who is Tomato Tom?

answer: Tomato Tom spoke the language of fruits and vegetables, and was able to get the two sides to come to an agreement.

question: What is the key event of the story?

answer: During a time of peace between fruits and vegetables, the vegetables decide to spark war by sending a spider to kill the Great Loom Grape.

question: What is the resolution of the story?

answer: The King Watermelon is the only survivor of the war, and all the bloodshed of the war inspires the human narrator to clear his fridge of rotting produce and eat a watermelon.

question: What happens to the Great Loom Grape?

answer: The Great Loom Grape is killed as an act of war when a spider lays eggs inside its head.

question: Write a ~3 sentence summary.

answer: A human narrator describes the long-standing rift between fruits and vegetables. The narrator describes a second war between fruits and vegetables. Only the King Watermelon survives, and seeing all the bloodshed inspires the narrator to clear his fridge of rotting produce and eat his watermelon.


text:
JIMMIE GORDON was an American Chicago blues pianist, singer, and songwriter.[1] In the course of his career he accompanied Memphis Minnie, Bumble Bee Slim, and Big Bill Broonzy, amongst others. He had a hit with “I'd Rather Drink Muddy Water” (1936) and was active on the Chicago blues scene for a number of years leading up to World War II. He is known to have recorded 67 tracks between 1934 and 1946.[2] Gordon was a mainstay of Decca Records during the 1930s and early 1940s, with his recorded work utilizing a piano accompaniment (often his own), as well as guitar, or with a small band that he assembled for the work.[3]

As a songwriter, Gordon is often credited with writing “Mean Mistreater”, later recorded by both Muddy Waters and Johnny Winter. AllMusic noted that “Gordon was a passable pianist who sang with all his heart in a warm and convincing voice.”[4]

Details of his life outside the recording studio are sketchy and have been the subject of rumor and speculation over the years.[5]

Life and career

It was once thought that Gordon was born in St. Louis, but that was based solely on his performance on the B-side of a single by the St. Louis–born Peetie Wheatstraw, following a session recorded in October 1938 with the guitar player Lonnie Johnson.[6]

Whatever his origin and background, by 1934 Gordon was signed to a recording contract. Apart from one Bluebird side at the beginning of his recording career, all of Gordon's pre-war work was released by Decca.[7] Gordon's backing ensembles, sometimes billed as the Vip Vop Band, variously included such notable blues and jazz musicians as Scrapper Blackwell, the brothers Papa Charlie McCoy and Kansas Joe McCoy, members of the Harlem Hamfats, Frankie Newton, Pete Brown, Buster Bennett, and the drummer Zutty Singleton.[8][9] This ability to base backing units around a jazz-blues fusion of musicians was started by the Harlem Hamfats, but Gordon's use of this arrangement proved the basis for many later blues bands.[10] His most commercially successful number was a song he wrote, “I'd Rather Drink Muddy Water”, in 1936[11] His ability to raise social issues in his songs is shown by “Don't Take Away My P.W.A.” (1936), a homage of sorts to the Public Works Administration (P.W.A.), a large-scale public works construction agency in the United States in the Great Depression of the 1930s.[12]

Even in his own lifetime Gordon was misrepresented. When his record company released “Black Gal” (Decca 7043), early copies credited the work to “Joe Bullum”; later copies of the disc were released with a corrected credit.[13]

Four jump blues titles of his were released on the King and Queen labels in 1946.[14] On these his backing was billed as the Bip Bop Band, a nod to the changing fashions in music at that time.[15] Gordon also recorded some dirty blues, with his songs “Hard Lead Pencil” and “How You Want It Done”, both of which were reissued on the compilation album _Let Me Squeeze Your Lemon_.[16] All of Gordon's known work has been compiled on a series of albums released by Document Records.[17]

Nothing is known of Gordon's life after his recording career ended.[18]

He has been mistaken for the similarly named Jimmy Gordon, the bass singer with the Four Tunes.

Selected compilation albums

  Year   Title                                      Record label
  ------ ------------------------------------------ --------------------
  1987   _Jimmie Gordon: 1934–1941_                 Story of the Blues
  2000   _Complete Recordings, Vol. 1, 1934–1936_   Document
  2000   _Complete Recordings, Vol. 2, 1936–1938_   Document
  2000   _Complete Recordings, Vol. 3, 1939–1946_   Document

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title: Jimmie Gordon

question: What is Jimmie Gordon best known for?

answer: He's known for being a blues pianist, singer, and songwriter.

question: Where was he born?

answer: He was born in St. Louis.

question: List some of his songs.

answer:
-“I'd Rather Drink Muddy Water”
-“Don't Take Away My P.W.A.”
-“Black Gal”
-“Hard Lead Pencil”
-“How You Want It Done”

question: What happened to him after his career ended?

answer: Information can't be found.

question: Write a ~2 sentence summary.

answer: JIMMIE GORDON was an American Chicago blues pianist, singer, and songwriter. His most commercially successful song is “I'd Rather Drink Muddy Water."