#Masonic Application Process

[freemasonmembership]

🤝 Freemasonry and Its Relationship with Other Secret Societies 🌟

Explore the intriguing connections between Freemasonry and other secret societies in this enlightening journey. If you’re curious and wish to delve deeper into this topic or consider joining our ancient brotherhood, Grand Master Peter is here to help, whether you’re in Kenya or abroad. Connect with him via WhatsApp at +254757377899 to initiate your journey. Discover the complexities and historical links between Freemasonry and other secret societies in an exploration that promises to broaden your understanding of the esoteric world.

#FreemasonryRelationships #SecretSocieties #MasonicJourney #PathToEnlightenment 📲🌐

Embark on this fascinating quest to comprehend Freemasonry’s unique place among secret societies, taking your first step toward knowledge and enlightenment. 🚀🔍

[collar-shocked]

I like thinking about my muses in natural, mundane, normal settings. I think it's funny. Take my HC's.

Strade, clothes stained with blood, stressing over the countertop looking at his 1040 with a calculator present. He plays a lot of dangerous games, but never with the IRS.

Ren general shopping. Man's gotta pick up his flour. Get some more TP. Standing in front of the aisle for all of 30 seconds debating soft, or ultra soft. Maybe get some new socks while he's out. Stop at the Burger King drive thru cause it was on the way. Then he's gotta get home and put them all away. What an exciting day.

Lawrence needing to stop on a walk because his pocket ripped on a twig, and all his coins fell. Awesome. If carrying coins isn't good enough, now they're dirt-coins. Super paranoid about leaving one behind for some reason. Lord forbid he abandon his dime. It's all under his nails now, too. Great. Super humiliating.

Mason figuring out the internet. He has no idea what LOL means. Why are there so many images with text on them? Does use text faces. Thinks they're super funny, very creative little things. " :) ". 100% needed assistance through Fox's application process. Just didn't know what half those words meant. The fuck's a PDF? How does he get his ID, which is in real life, onto this machine, which is not real?

[leonsliga]

honestly I love Mason and Declan as well, everytime I see Mason interact with a man I hear wedding bells, that man is so babygirl slay.

totally agree on judy!! can't believe I forgot him, him and halaand definitely did it

As of Rashford and Sancho I'm concflicted because the give me straight vibes separately and gay vibes together, maybe they're each other exceptions 😉😉

btw I've seen a lot people ship Kane and Son but to me Kane is as straight and boring as they come, I can see Richarlison and Son tho

Yes yes YES thank you!! Also, I’m so sorry for the late response anon! The grad school application process has been kicking my ass 😂 BUT NEVER FEAR…I HAVE RETURNED FROM MY SLUMBER

I love that you love them!! Maybe it’s just me, but I feel like there aren’t many Decson shippers around these days, and I genuinely don’t know why. They’re an underrated footy ship imo. I mean, they’ve literally got it all, from the casual touching:

To the soft, loving looks:

And of course, I can’t forget the heartfelt words of affirmation:

(Please note, the pics and gifs are not mine. This is just a compilation of some of my favorite moments of these two 💗 I don’t remember the blog names off the top of my head, but go find them, probs under the Decson tag, and show them some love, ok?)

I totally agree about Haaland and Jude. While there’s no way of truly knowing whether or not anything happened between them, they’ve got such a natural chemistry and a really fun dynamic! Also, have you seen the video of them reciting cheesy pick-up lines for one another, because if you haven’t, consider it required viewing (mostly because it’s absolutely adorable and I have a feeling you’ll love it) 😁

As for Rashy and JLingz, I’m in the exact same boat. I could definitely see them being each other’s exceptions, but only they know whether their relationship is more than friendship or not 🤷‍♀️

Ah yes, I definitely know about Kaneson! I’m not on board with them as a pairing either (at least not just yet…I’m easily converted to any ship tho hehehe), but they make an incredible duo on the pitch, I will say that! Oooh…I didn’t even think about Son and Richarlison as a pairing! If you have any content of them (pics or anything), I’d definitely be interested. I love learning about new ships <3

[anewbrother]

What?

Freemasonry is a group of good men who come together to make good men into better men. As well as collecting conspiracy theories like a white shirt attracts red sauce. They also donate enormous amounts of money to charity, and have an impeccable sense of style. I'm an FtM man in my mid-thirties who is probably finished with the medical parts of my transition, I work in the community (meaning, my full-time job, my colleagues, all of our customers and most of the contractors are all queer), and I dabble in writing and painting and fibrecraft.

For convenience, I and everyone else will be pseudonymous, so get ready to meet Brother Dude, Brother Fellow, Senior Warden Tish and Junior Warden Tosh, Worshipful Brother Ignotus, Master of this Lodge, etc, as I set my left foot forward on the way to joining the Lodge Of Anonymity.

For now, I'm Chap, hopefully soon to be Brother Chap, Entered Apprentice, and eventually many years down the line Brother Chap, Master Mason.

Why?

A little bit of a lot of things. I want to have ritual in my life, which has meaning to other people and isn't just something that I do alone. I like the idea of knowledge being paced out over months and years and decades, rather than binged when the whim takes me, and of being knowledge which is attached to people, where someone teaches me and imparts their own ideas and nuances rather than just reading from a cold book. And related to that, I would love to have some formal moral instruction, to not constantly be poking at my ethical gag reflex alone to work out where the line lies between something that is morally wrong and something that just irks me. I want community, especially with people who aren't immediately similar to me, and paradoxically with people who share more literal landmarks with me - Having more friends who go to the local pubs, walk on the local lanes, shop at the local shops, rather than all my friends being a train ride away. I am hugely enthused by the idea of a place where I CAN NOT talk about politics, and anyone bringing up politics to me will be censured for it. I want to take on a responsibility that isn't life-or-death for my community, but that still feels more grounded in other people than my gym routine. Also, the Masons make better men, and I would love to be a better man.

So where are you now?

I'm not a Mason yet. I had my first meet and chats in November and will have my interview in February, and between November and now me and another few prospective new brothers have been coming down to the Lodge every other week to start to get to know the Brothers. I've been told to expect to be Entered around St George's Day if I pass the interview. But first... The interview, and I must admit I am nervous.

But Why Blog About It?

Because there's a lot of talk online about trans people. A lot of Masons in the States insisting both that no trans man would be able to have the character to become a Mason, and would always be blackballed even if their Grand Lodge technically admits them, and that no trans woman should ever be allowed to stay a Mason, because the simple fact of transitioning is unmasonic conduct.

But, the United Grand Lodge Of England says;

A candidate for admission to Freemasonry under UGLE must be a man. Should a person who has undergone gender reassignment and has become a man apply to become a Freemason then his application must be processed in the same way as for any other male candidate.

A Freemason who after initiation ceases to be a man does not cease to be a Freemason. We expect that Freemasons will act with compassion and sensitivity towards their fellow Freemasons.

We hope that no Freemason would engage in unwanted conduct relating to another Freemason’s actual or perceived gender reassignment or gender transition.

No candidate should be subjected to questions about their gender which could make them feel uncomfortable.

The full text is here, but the gist is: Trans people of all stripes are welcome in the Grand Lodge Of England, and being hostile towards them is unmasonic. https://www.ugle.org.uk/gender-reassignment-policy

There aren't many examples of trans Masons online, and all of the ones that I've seen have been already Master Masons before transition, so I thought I might as well share my experiences as they happen, for good or ill.

Also, if you are trans and a Mason, please drop me a message, I would love to have more Brothers and maybe we can visit each other if I pass the interview and am entered.

[butts-bouncing-on-the-beltway]

The legal system and those within it often acknowledge this pretty explicitly by the way.

When Wifey was arrested, it was a 100% "by the book" arrest for a real actual legal violation, but the only people involved in the process who thought that should have been acted on were the cops. They had called for a bondsman when they took her in, and got the judge instead who descended on the precinct with all the rage of a very busy man who was called into work at 9pm on a Saturday. He ripped them a new asshole in front of me, and then AGAIN when they brought him back to talk to Wifey and he found her handcuffed to the wall, amd then he coldly told them to charge me $40 for processing and release her immediately.

When Wifey had to go into court after the arrest and release AN ENTIRELY DIFFERENT JUDGE ripped the cops a third new asshole for wasting her time with the case. Because what had happened was so ridiculous and absurd that it was blatant to anyone involved that Wifey hadn't ACTUALLY done anything wrong despite "breaking the law" because she had done all of the things she was supposed to do in those situations and it wasn't her fault it hadn't been resolved! It was blatant to everyone that the cops brought her in to meet a quota because they considered her disposable, not because they considered her a criminal.

Outcome: wifey's arrest was wiped from her record and she was issued official paperwork from the court to the effect of "this should never have happened and anyone who asks why it did should understand it to have been in error."

But Wifey was lucky. Not everyone who gets arrested under those circumstances gets treated with the same compassion despite the explicit understanding within the system that people often HAVE NO CHOICE but to break the law or can break the law without even realizing they have (not as in "I didn't know it was illegal to drive without an active vehicle registration" for example, but rather "I didn't know my vehicle registration HAD BEEN MADE INACTIVE AND THEREFORE I WAS NO LONGER LEGAL TO DRIVE). If you aren't even aware that SOMEONE ELSE has done something that makes your actions illegal, how could it possibly be reasonable to hold you accountable for that?

If you are not a person who experiences regular and frequent interaction with the "justice" system, you may genuinely not understand how easy it is to do everything exactly by the book and still commit a felony.

For a more evidence based example, look at what happens when people who lost their voting rights work to restore them and someone on the other end invalidates that restoration without telling them, thus leading to them being arrested for voting.

This isn't just some abstract thing of "there are so many laws we don't know we're breaking". It's that we can be categorized as breaking the law by actions entirely outside our control that were taken by others without our knowledge. That's not accidental. It has been a growing method of criminalizing communities by creating a precedent of "selective application of the law".

If this isn't YOUR experience of the law, I'm happy for you. But you need to understand WHY it's not YOUR experience.

It drives me insane how many people dont realise how often they break the law and that if the full force of it was ever applied life would basically be unliveable. Like between traffic violations, petty workplace theft, account sharing and piracy alongside how common it is to have been in posession of some illegal drug at some point in your life. People still manage to get away with thinking "criminals" are people who commit crimes not just populations that are surveilled enough to be routinely prosecuted

[jobsineurope]

Work in Europe: Your Gateway to a Thriving Blue-Collar Career

Europe is a dream destination for blue-collar workers seeking stable jobs, competitive salaries, and career growth opportunities. With a rising demand for skilled labor across industries, countries like Germany, Poland, and the Netherlands are actively hiring international workers. If you’re an Indian professional aspiring to work in Europe, this guide by AAR Overseas will help you understand the process, from finding jobs in Europe to obtaining a work permit visa.

Why Work in Europe?

Europe offers a wealth of opportunities for blue-collar professionals, thanks to its:

High Demand for Labor: Many European countries face labor shortages in industries like construction, manufacturing, and logistics.

Attractive Salaries: Workers enjoy higher wages compared to other regions, even for entry-level roles.

Work-Life Balance: Europe is renowned for its employee-friendly policies, ensuring shorter working hours and better benefits.

Long-Term Prospects: With the right work permit, you can transition to permanent residency.

Diverse Industries: Opportunities range from agriculture and construction to hospitality and logistics.

Blue-Collar Job Opportunities in Europe

Top Sectors Hiring International Workers

Truck Drivers: Jobs for Truck Drivers

General Workers: Jobs for General Workers

Welders: Jobs for Welders

Construction: Roles for carpenters, masons, electricians, and welders.

Logistics: Jobs in warehousing, delivery, and transportation.

Manufacturing: Positions like assembly line workers, machine operators, and technicians.

Agriculture: Seasonal jobs in farming, fruit picking, and greenhouse work.

Hospitality: Opportunities for cooks, housekeeping staff, and kitchen assistants.

Countries Actively Hiring

Hungary

Luxembourg

Finland

Sweden

Lithuania

Austria

Latvia

How to Find Jobs in Europe

1. Use Job Portals

Leverage online platforms to explore job vacancies:

EURES: The official EU employment portal connects job seekers with European employers.

Indeed Europe: A comprehensive platform featuring diverse job listings.

Europa.jobs: Ideal for blue-collar professionals seeking overseas roles.

2. Work With Recruitment Agencies

Trusted recruitment agencies can match your skills with job openings, assist with paperwork, and streamline the hiring process.

3. Network Globally

Reach out to professionals already working in Europe or join social media groups and forums dedicated to job opportunities abroad.

4. Partner With AAR Overseas

We help you find suitable job openings, guide you through the application process, and ensure compliance with European labor laws. At AAR Overseas, we specialize in connecting Indian professionals with top European employers while ensuring a hassle-free visa process.

How to Get a Europe Work Permit Visa

1. Secure a Job Offer

A valid job offer from a European employer is essential for obtaining a work permit visa.

2. Choose the Right Visa Type

EU Blue Card: For skilled professionals, but can also apply to blue-collar workers with certifications.

Seasonal Work Visa: Ideal for temporary jobs in agriculture or tourism.

National Work Permits: Each country has unique regulations and visa requirements.

3. Submit the Necessary Documents

Prepare the following:

Valid passport.

Employment contract.

Proof of qualifications or work experience.

Health insurance coverage.

Financial stability proof.

4. Apply Through the Embassy

Submit your visa application at the respective country’s embassy or consulate and prepare for an interview if required.

Why Choose AAR Overseas?

Expert Guidance: Our team specializes in European work visa applications and recruitment.

Trusted Network: We collaborate with top employers and recruitment companies in Europe.

Customized Solutions: From job search to documentation, we provide tailored services to meet your needs.

Proven Track Record: With years of experience, we’ve successfully placed countless Indian workers in Europe.

Tips for a Successful Career in Europe

Enhance Your Skills: Obtain relevant certifications in your field, such as forklift operation or welding.

Learn the Basics of Local Languages: Knowing German, Polish, or Dutch can increase your employability.

Understand Employment Rights: Familiarize yourself with European labor laws to ensure fair treatment.

Be Open to Adaptation: Adjusting to a new culture and work environment will enhance your experience.

Conclusion

Working in Europe is a life-changing opportunity for blue-collar professionals, offering financial stability, career growth, and an improved quality of life. With the guidance of AAR Overseas, you can easily navigate the complexities of finding a job, securing a Europe work permit visa, and starting your journey toward a rewarding career abroad.

Don’t wait—take the first step today. Let AAR Overseas help you unlock a world of opportunities in Europe! About US

Meet Us 3A-156, Ground Floor, Near DAV College, K.L. Mehta Road, Faridabad – 121001, INDIA

Call Us +91 9811318899

Write Us info@aaroverseas.com

[bcm-group]

We Provide Europe Work Permit Visa From India For Skilled Workers

Securing a Europe work permit visa from India can transform your career, opening doors to high-quality employment and financial stability abroad. At BCM Group India, we specialize in assisting skilled Indian workers through the Europe work visa application process. Whether you are a welder, mason, or CNC operator, our experience as Europe work visa consultants helps you navigate every step with confidence.

Why Work in Europe?

Working in Europe offers numerous benefits for Indian workers. Skilled workers are in high demand on the continent, and positions regularly include competitive pay and steady operating conditions. Most of the Indian workers want to know how to get a work visa for Europe to make the most of these opportunities. With BCM Group India’s guidance, this goal is achievable.

Our Expertise as Europe Work Visa

The process of obtaining a European work permit visa can be complicated. As Europe work visa agents, our expertise includes managing documents, getting work ready and ensuring compliance with local labor laws. With BCM Group India’s support, securing a work visa for Europe from India becomes a streamlined process, allowing you to focus on building your future.

Who Can Apply?

Our recruitment efforts are centered on putting Indian people in professional and semi-professional trades, inclusive of welding, masonry, CNC manufacturing, and greater. Those who are interested in these roles and meet the eligibility necessities are encouraged to apply for a piece visa in Europe for Indian workers.

Benefits of Choosing BCM Group India

Step-by-Step Guidance: We help with everything from preparing documents to offering jobs, ensuring a smooth experience for job seekers.

Trusted and Transparent Process: As a reputable Europe work visa consultant, we have built our services on trust, transparency and adherence to European recruitment standards. We keep you informed about every step, including Europe work visa fees.

High Job Satisfaction and Retention: BCM Group India is committed to providing long-term employment opportunities. Our applicants and employers report high satisfaction, making us a reliable option for Indian workers seeking European careers.

For Full Blog, Click here....

[stlstonebrick]

" Building the Future with the Past: How Ancient Stonework Techniques Influence Modern Masonry. "

Masonry is a craft that has withstood the test of time. For thousands of years, stone has been the material of choice for creating buildings, monuments, and structures that define civilizations. From the Great Pyramids of Giza to the towering Gothic cathedrals of Europe, the art of working with stone has evolved but remains rooted in the same principles and techniques first developed by ancient cultures.

In our previous article, "The Secret History of Stonework: How Ancient Masonry Techniques Shape Modern Architecture," we explored the legacy of ancient masonry and how these techniques still influence modern construction. If you missed it, be sure to read it.

In this article, we’ll explore in greater depth how ancient stonework techniques continue to shape modern masonry and construction practices. Whether through the precision of stone cutting, the use of sustainable materials like lime mortar, or the timeless appeal of arches and vaults, these techniques remain as relevant today as they were thousands of years ago. As we build for the future, we must remember that the foundations of our cities and structures were laid by the innovations of the past.

The Enduring Power of Stonework

Stone has long been a symbol of strength, permanence, and artistry in architecture. The Pyramids of Giza, built over 4,500 years ago, stand as a testament to the ancient Egyptians’ mastery of stonework. The Romans revolutionized construction with their invention of concrete and the use of the arch, and the Gothic cathedrals of the Middle Ages showcased the precision and beauty of stone carving.

But what is it about stone that makes it such a powerful material in construction? The strength and durability of stone structures are not just due to the material itself, but to the craftsmanship behind it. Ancient masons worked meticulously to shape and place stones with incredible precision. These skills have been passed down through generations, and today’s masons continue to rely on these techniques to create buildings and features that are both functional and beautiful.

Modern technology has certainly changed the way we build, but the principles that ancient builders developed are still central to the construction process today. Whether we’re designing custom stonework for a residential project or restoring a historic building, the influence of ancient masonry is felt in every stone we lay.

Ancient Masonry Techniques That Shaped Modern Construction

Many of the techniques developed by ancient civilizations remain relevant in today’s construction industry. From the Roman arch to dry stone masonry, these age-old practices continue to be utilized by masons around the world. Let’s take a closer look at some of these enduring techniques and how they are still being applied in modern masonry.

1. The Arch: A Timeless Innovation

One of the most significant contributions from ancient Rome was the development of the arch. The Romans understood that a curved structure could bear more weight and span wider gaps than a flat beam. The use of the arch allowed them to build vast aqueducts, bridges, and monumental structures like the Colosseum. The principles of the arch continue to be foundational in modern architecture.

Today, arches are used in everything from bridges to residential homes. The structural integrity provided by an arch allows for greater spans and larger, open spaces without the need for additional support beams or columns. The precision of Roman engineering is still evident in the use of arches in contemporary construction, where they remain both an engineering solution and an aesthetic feature.

Modern Application: The arches in modern-day bridges, highways, and even building facades rely on the same engineering principles first pioneered by the Romans.

2. Roman Concrete: A Revolutionary Material

Another Roman invention that revolutionized construction was concrete. Roman concrete, or opus caementicium, was a mixture of volcanic ash, lime, and seawater, which resulted in a durable material capable of withstanding the test of time. This innovation enabled the Romans to build monumental structures like the Pantheon, which still holds the record for the world’s largest unreinforced concrete dome.

While modern concrete has evolved and improved, the fundamental principles of Roman concrete are still applied in today’s construction. The use of reinforced concrete, in which steel rods or mesh are embedded into the concrete to improve its tensile strength, is an extension of the innovations pioneered by the Romans.

Modern Application: Modern infrastructure projects, such as highways, tunnels, dams, and skyscrapers, all rely on concrete as a primary building material, a direct descendant of Roman concrete.

3. Dry Stone Masonry: Building Without Mortar

Dry stone masonry, the technique of stacking stones without mortar, is one of the oldest methods of stone construction. This technique relies on the natural weight and shape of the stones to create stable, self-supporting structures. Early civilizations used dry stone techniques for building walls, homes, and fortifications. This method is still in use today, especially for retaining walls, garden walls, and other landscaping features.

Unlike modern masonry, which uses mortar to bond stones together, dry stone masonry relies on the precise placement and interlocking of stones to create a stable structure. This technique is not only environmentally friendly—since it uses no mortar—but also durable and aesthetically timeless.

Modern Application: Dry stone walls are popular in landscaping projects, particularly for retaining walls or decorative features that require minimal maintenance while adding a rustic, natural look to gardens or yards.

4. Stone Cutting and Precision Craftsmanship

One of the most remarkable aspects of ancient masonry is the precision with which stones were cut and shaped. Ancient builders didn’t have power tools or modern machinery, yet they were able to craft stones with such accuracy that many structures, like the Great Pyramids, still stand today. The tools used by ancient masons—chisels, hammers, and wedges—may have been simple, but their mastery of these tools allowed them to achieve remarkable precision.

Today, masons still use a combination of hand tools and power tools to cut and shape stones. While modern machinery can automate much of the process, the artistry and precision of hand-cut stonework are still essential for high-end custom projects.

Modern Application: Custom stonework such as countertops, fireplaces, and decorative stone features often require a combination of hand-cut and machine-cut stones to achieve both the precision and artistic beauty that are characteristic of ancient masonry.

The Role of Modern Technology in Ancient Craftsmanship

While ancient masonry techniques are deeply rooted in tradition, modern technology has provided new tools that enhance the precision and efficiency of these age-old methods. Today, masons use laser-guided tools, diamond-tipped blades, and 3D modeling software to ensure that each stone is cut and placed with utmost accuracy.

At St. Louis Stone and Brick, we combine these modern technologies with the traditional techniques passed down through generations to provide our clients with the highest level of craftsmanship. Our team uses state-of-the-art tools to create intricate stone designs, but we also honor the artistry and craftsmanship that define the ancient stonework traditions.

Modern Application: Advanced technologies like 3D modeling and laser cutting allow for the creation of complex, customized stone designs that were once difficult or impossible to achieve by hand.

Building a Sustainable Future with Ancient Masonry Techniques

Sustainability is a key focus in today’s construction industry, and many of the techniques used by ancient masons can help reduce the environmental impact of modern building practices. For example, materials like limestone, granite, and marble are natural, durable, and energy-efficient. These materials have been used for centuries and continue to be popular in today’s green building projects.

In addition, ancient methods like the use of lime mortar—which is more breathable and flexible than modern cement—are being rediscovered as sustainable alternatives. Lime mortar allows buildings to adapt to temperature changes without cracking, providing better long-term performance and reducing the carbon footprint of construction.

Modern Application: The use of natural stone and lime mortar is gaining popularity in sustainable architecture, as these materials provide both aesthetic beauty and environmental benefits.

Why St. Louis Stone and Brick Embraces Ancient Masonry Techniques

At St. Louis Stone and Brick, we understand that the techniques used by ancient masons are not just relics of the past—they’re the foundation of future construction. We proudly incorporate time-honored stonework practices into our projects, whether we’re restoring a historic building, creating custom stone features for a modern home, or designing complex stonework for commercial spaces.

Our commitment to craftsmanship and quality is what sets us apart. By combining modern technology with traditional masonry techniques, we deliver projects that are not only beautiful but also built to last.

Start Your Project with St. Louis Stone and Brick

Ready to incorporate the timeless beauty and durability of stone into your next project? Whether you're looking to create custom stonework for a new build or restore a historic masonry structure, St. Louis Stone and Brick can help bring your vision to life. Our team of skilled masons combines modern tools with ancient craftsmanship to ensure your project stands the test of time.

Explore our website to learn more about our services and check out our blog for more insights into the art and science of masonry.

For more on how ancient techniques influence modern architecture, don't forget to read our article on “ The Secret History of Stonework: How Ancient Masonry Techniques Shape Modern Architecture. ”

[longroadhomeproject143]

What Can You Use Instead of a Blender?

Introduction to the Topic

Blenders are handy kitchen appliances that can handle a range of tasks, from smoothies to soups. But what if your blender breaks down, or you’re away from home without access to one? In this article, we’ll explore creative and practical alternatives to a blender. Whether you’re facing a power outage, traveling, or simply looking for quieter or manual solutions, we’ve got you covered.

Why Look for Blender Alternatives?

Several situations call for alternatives to blenders:

Power Outages: When electricity is unavailable, you need manual tools.

Traveling or Camping: Portable tools become essential.

Minimalist Kitchen: Some people opt for fewer appliances.

Noise Sensitivity: Avoid the loud sound of a blender by using quieter options.

Using a Food Processor Instead of a Blender

A food processor is one of the closest substitutes for a blender. It handles solid foods well, making it ideal for:

Soups and purees: Achieve smooth textures.

Nut butters: Blend nuts into creamy spreads.

However, food processors may not work well with liquids, and they can be bulky.

Hand Mixers as a Substitute

Hand mixers excel at tasks like:

Smoothies and frothy drinks

Batters for baking

The key is to move the mixer evenly. However, hand mixers may struggle with thicker items like frozen fruits.

Immersion Blenders for Versatile Use

Immersion blenders allow you to blend right in the pot, making them perfect for:

Soups and sauces

Quick purees

Though versatile, they can splatter and aren’t ideal for large quantities.

Manual Whisks and Their Applications

A whisk works wonders for lighter tasks, such as:

Whipped cream or salad dressing

Scrambled eggs

However, whisking can be tiring and isn’t suitable for dense mixtures.

Mortar and Pestle: A Traditional Alternative

The mortar and pestle is a classic tool for crushing and grinding:

Herbs and spices

Creating pesto or curry pastes

It takes effort but offers control over texture.

Coffee Grinders for Small Batches

Coffee grinders can process:

Spices and seeds

They aren’t suited for liquids, so their use is limited.

Forks for Quick and Simple Tasks

Use forks to:

Mash avocados

Mix small portions of ingredients

Forks work well for simple tasks but aren’t efficient for larger jobs.

Rolling Pins for Manual Grinding

A rolling pin can break down:

Cookies and crackers

This method is easy but can get messy without proper setup.

Chopping and Mincing by Hand

A sharp knife offers precise control when:

Chopping fruits or vegetables

While time-consuming, this method offers the most precision.

Using a Cheese Grater or Zester

These tools are ideal for:

Grating vegetables like carrots

Zesting lemons and oranges

Shaking Jars for Homemade Drinks and Marinades

Use a mason jar to:

Shake dressings and smoothies

Though effective, this method requires effort and may not yield perfectly smooth results.

Innovative DIY Tools and Methods

Creative solutions include:

Using bottles to roll dough or crush items

Creating makeshift blenders while camping

Conclusion: Finding the Right Tool for the Job

Choosing the right alternative depends on the task at hand. For smoothies, hand mixers or immersion blenders work well. For spices, coffee grinders or a mortar and pestle are ideal. With the right tool, you can easily manage without a blender.

FAQs on Blender Alternatives

What is the best alternative to a blender for smoothies?

A hand mixer or immersion blender can work well for smoothies.

Can you use a hand mixer instead of a blender?

Yes, hand mixers are suitable for batters, drinks, and light smoothies.

How do you blend without electricity?

Manual tools like a whisk or a mortar and pestle are great alternatives.

Is a food processor better than a blender?

A food processor handles solid foods better, but it may not blend liquids as smoothly.

Can I use a whisk to blend soup?

While possible, it’s not ideal. An immersion blender is a better choice.

What can I use if I don’t have a mortar and pestle?

Try using a rolling pin or a heavy jar to crush ingredients.

[recentlyheardcom]

What is responsive web design and why is it important?

Author Mason Jacob Published May 31, 2021 Word count 986 What is Responsive Web Design? What is Responsive Web Design? Responsive web design (RWD) is the process of designing websites and applications so they can be easily viewed on a variety of devices, including desktop computers, tablet personal computers, mobile phones, and other types of the display devices. This is a hot topic for web…

[freemasonmembership]

🏛️ Unveiling the Mysteries: A Comprehensive Guide to Freemasonry 🌟

Embark on a captivating journey into the heart of Freemasonry, where the timeless mysteries and traditions of this revered brotherhood come to light. If you’re intrigued by the enigmatic world of Freemasonry and desire to explore its depths, Grand Master Peter is here as your trusted guide. Whether you’re in Kenya or abroad, you can effortlessly reach out to him via WhatsApp or Telegram at +254757377899, setting the course for your initiation into Freemasonry. 🚀✨

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[jackmasonincandco]

Jack Mason Inc & Co - Importance of AI in Healthcare Business

​Artificial Intelligence (AI) is becoming increasingly crucial in the healthcare business, revolutionizing various aspects of the industry and driving significant improvements in patient care, operational efficiency, and medical research.

​Here are some key areas shared by Jack Mason Inc & Co where AI is making a substantial impact:

1. Enhanced Diagnostics and Treatment ​AI algorithms, particularly in machine learning, are improving diagnostic accuracy by analyzing vast amounts of medical data, including imaging, lab results, and patient history. AI systems can detect patterns and anomalies that may be missed by human eyes, leading to earlier and more accurate diagnoses. This is particularly impactful in fields like radiology, oncology, and pathology, where AI aids in identifying diseases such as cancer at earlier stages.

2. Personalized Medicine

AI enables the creation of personalized treatment plans tailored to individual patients. By analyzing genetic information, lifestyle factors, and other personal data, AI can help doctors determine the most effective treatments with minimal side effects. This personalized approach enhances patient outcomes and reduces the trial-and-error nature of traditional treatment methods.

3. Operational Efficiency

AI helps streamline healthcare operations by optimizing administrative tasks, managing patient flow, and predicting resource needs. For instance, AI can automate scheduling, reduce wait times, and optimize the use of medical facilities. This not only improves patient experience but also reduces costs for healthcare providers.

4. Drug Discovery and Development

AI accelerates the drug discovery process by analyzing large datasets to identify potential drug candidates and predict their success rates. This reduces the time and cost involved in bringing new drugs to market. AI can also help in repurposing existing drugs for new treatments, opening up new avenues for therapeutic applications.

5. Remote Monitoring and Telemedicine

AI-powered tools enable continuous monitoring of patients, especially those with chronic conditions. Wearable devices and AI algorithms can track vital signs and detect early warning signs of potential health issues, allowing for timely interventions. Additionally, AI enhances telemedicine platforms by providing decision support to clinicians and ensuring that remote consultations are as effective as in-person visits.

6. Predictive Analytics

AI-driven predictive analytics can forecast disease outbreaks, patient admission rates, and other critical healthcare trends. This information helps healthcare providers prepare for future challenges, allocate resources more effectively, and make data-driven decisions to improve overall healthcare delivery.

7. Ethical and Regulatory Considerations

While AI offers numerous benefits, it also raises ethical and regulatory challenges, particularly in areas like patient privacy, data security, and bias in AI algorithms. The healthcare industry must navigate these issues carefully to ensure that AI is used responsibly and equitably.

Conclusion

AI is transforming the healthcare business by improving patient outcomes, enhancing operational efficiency, and accelerating medical research. As AI continues to evolve, its integration into healthcare will likely lead to even more significant advancements, making it an indispensable tool in the pursuit of better health for all.

Follow ​Jack Mason Inc & Co for more such posts!

[shorebrook]

June 23, 2024 - Shorebrook Community Club Annual Membership Meeting Minutes

Shorebrook Community Club 2024 General Meeting Minutes

June 23, 2024

Board Present: 

John Stockwell, Vice President

Jeff Butterfield, Treasurer

Bob Lillie, General Board Member

Rick Anderson, General Board Member

Board Members Absent:

Brock Graber, President (away for business travel)

Sara Graber, Secretary (away for business travel)

Jan Selver, General Board Member

Meeting called to order: 1:08 PM

Address Off Plat Member Concerns – None

Introduction of new members

Julie Clark - Spar Tree

Younghee Lee and Peter Doe - Brook Place

Read 2023 General Meeting Minutes – Previous minutes were not available to review, but agenda was available to review. 

By-laws were approved and will be presented today.  

Credit card usage was addressed, but due to added costs and inconvenience, this was not approved at this time.  

NW annual water survey was received and reviewed.  

Community picnic was well received and there is a plan to have another in 2024.  

Previous minutes, not being available to read, are not officially approved at this time.

Treasurer’s Report 

Summary of income and balance sheet were distributed to each attendee.  We have some outstanding receivables that are currently being addressed.  

There was mention of consideration of a CD account at 5% interest.  This will be tabled to discuss with the board.  

Another input was provided by Brad Carey regarding a money market fund at 4.3% that allows check writing.  

Motion by Brad Carey to accept treasurer’s report and seconded.

Major events of 2023-2024

Water system inspection results.  John Stockwell noted that NW Water systems was inspecting a particular testing “port” that was providing negative results.  They have been asked to change the test location, which has resulted in more positive tests.

Completion of Caldervin Creek Emergency Dredging – Brad Carey provided an update on the creek dredging and discussed opportunities to file claims against DNR to recover damages.  He suggested filing a SF210 form.  Phase 1 to address the emergency, Phase 2 to address the problem, Phase 3 to review the updated results to address concerns to move forward.  The majority of the dredging material is now stored on Brad’s property and those who may need additional fill material can contact him.  As an example, Shorebook can address the boat launch damage through a filing of the SF210 form.  Will Harris was introduced to the group as a candidate for Mason County Commissioner to listen to and address concerns.  Appreciation to Brad and all his time and efforts on the community’s behalf.

New by-laws filed with Mason County reflecting update to short term rentals.  The Mason County Recorded Amendment to the Shorebrook By-Laws was presented to the meeting group along with copies of the application process to notify the board of potential short-term rentals.  Brad noted that Mason County is also trying to address short-term rental issues in which Will Harris added some input regarding the County’s stance.  The ordinance is out there, but there needs to be enforcement.

Old Business:

Reminder for rental process

Notification to Board to include tenant name(s), contact information, which of them are over 18, the term of rental, physical address of property, and tenant & landlord acknowledgement of bylaws and tenant’s agreement to abide by them.

New Business:

2024-2025 Budget - vote to approve or amend.  2023-2024 budget was reviewed and for the most part in line with expectations.  A discussion regarding the Port of Allyn and the NW Water systems potentially overcharging inspection services.  This will be reviewed closely.  Budget was motioned for approval by Bill Pratt and seconded by Bill Gannon.

Shorebrook member picnic recap.  It was a wonderful day, but unfortunately a weaker attendance than last year.  It appears it may be an issue of getting the word out.  Some commented they were not informed for lack of email notification or other.  There will be increased efforts in the future to share notifications appropriately.

Suggestion for the creation of a Park Committee - open for discussion

This committee would be responsible for closing/opening the park and reaching out to the community to organize clean-ups.  It was discussed but determined that certain community members prefer to volunteer for this task on their own without a lot of recognition.  We appreciate their work.  Bill Pratt inquired about a community lawn mower for other volunteers to assist as needed.  This could help alleviate the burden of support from our regular volunteers.  Appreciation was also lauded by Bill Pratt with regards to Sheila’s contribution to the community.

John Lowe addressed a concern for emergency contacts regarding the water system and other emergency service needs.  There is concern about the lack of contact phone numbers being presented on the website.  The board will investigate a means of creating a “primary contact” number that will disseminate and alert key board members of an emergency or concern.

Election of officers and Board Members Prior to nominations for Office, there has been discussion of hiring a management company to preside over our community due to concern over “apathy” within the neighborhood.  This has not been a formal action, but more of a community inquiry and discussion.  Obviously, this could be a significant added expense for community members.  Members are being asked to step up or pay up.

A comment was made regarding the make-up of the Shorebrook Community.  Let’s introduce new members with a gift basket, contact information and community notice relating to what our association is about and that this is a “volunteer” community.

President – Cheri Allen has volunteered to accept the chair of President.  Bob Lillie nominated Cheri and seconded by Bill Pratt.

Vice President – Brock Graber has been appointed Vice President.  Motioned by Bob Lillie, seconded by Rick Anderson.

Secretary – Although it was initially presented that Cheri Allen and Sara Graber could co-chair the Secretary position, Cheri’s nomination to the President’s position had negated this motion and Sara has been re-nominated as Secretary.  Karen Van Hoesen has accepted the nomination to be a back-up to Sara.  John Stockwell set the motion and seconded by Brad Carey.

Treasurer – This position has temporarily been tabled as we await inquiry and decision on the nomination of Wade Anderson, a partner of Brad Carey’s who has a bookkeeping background.  Cheri Allen has also proposed the hiring an alternative 3rd party treasurer should this not work out.  An alternative is a bookkeeper John Stockwell knows.

Board of Directors general members shall remain the same with Rick Anderson, Jan Selvar, and Bob Lillie.

Motion to adjourn by Brad Carey and seconded by Karen Van Hoesen.

[evoldir]

Fwd: Course: Virginia.ConservationGenomics.Oct9-18

Begin forwarded message: > From: evoldir@evol.biology.mcmaster.ca > Subject: Course: Virginia.ConservationGenomics.Oct9-18 > Date: 26 June 2024 at 05:58:49 BST > To: rdmpage@gmail.com > > > > > Could you please post the following in the "Workshops & Courses" section of EvolDir under the link: SMSC_FrontRoyal.BioinformaticsAnalysisforConservationGenomics.Oct9-18 > > We invite applications for the next iteration of the 10-day course, > Bioinformatics Analysis for Conservation Genomics, which will be held > October 9-18, 2024 at the Smithsonian-Mason School of Conservation in > Front Royal, Virginia, USA. > > This 10-day residential course is designed for graduate students, > postdoctoral researchers, and early-career scientists interested in > designing conservation genomics projects or those that have already > generated their own genome data to acquire the skills necessary to: > assemble and annotate a genome or transcriptome, estimate genetic > diversity and structure, calculate inbreeding levels, detect deleterious > variants, infer demographic history, and compare data and results to > existing genomic resources. The hands-on tutorials in this workshop > will be performed on a High-Performance Computing Cluster via the Unix > command line. > > For this course, participants will be working with a novel dataset > from a threatened species for which a genome assembly and whole > genome sequencing data of additional individuals will already have > been generated. Participants will collaborate with each other and the > instructors to analyze these data and then prepare a genome report > manuscript for submission to a peer-reviewed journal. > > The course is organized and taught by a group of research scientists with > expertise in genomic data analysis related to conservation, evolutionary, > and population genomic studies and who are all passionate about teaching. > > The course fee is $2,213.00, which includes tuition, accommodation, > meals, and course-related transportation from and to Washington Dulles > International Airport (IAD). Applicants from certain countries are > eligible for a reduced rate of $1,713.00 which will automatically be > reflected during the registration process.  The application deadline > is July 31, 2024 and selection for the course is competitive as we will > only accommodate up to 20 participants. > > For more details about the course, including the online application and > information about the curriculum, teaching faculty, and venue, please > visit the website: > > https://ift.tt/GVgXko5 > > For questions, please contact Klaus Koepfli at > > kkoepfli@gmu.edu > > > > Klaus-Peter Koepfli, Ph.D. > > Senior Research Scientist > > Smithsonian-Mason School of Conservation > George Mason University > > 1500 Remount Road > Front Royal, VA 22630 > > USA > > Mobile (USA): > +1 310 903 0197 > > E-mail: > kkoepfli@gmu.edu OR > klauspeter.koepfli527@gmail.com > > Klaus-Peter Koepfli

[jcmarchi]

From steel engineering to ovarian tumor research

New Post has been published on https://thedigitalinsider.com/from-steel-engineering-to-ovarian-tumor-research/

From steel engineering to ovarian tumor research

Ashutosh Kumar is a classically trained materials engineer. Having grown up with a passion for making things, he has explored steel design and studied stress fractures in alloys.

Throughout Kumar’s education, however, he was also drawn to biology and medicine. When he was accepted into an undergraduate metallurgical engineering and materials science program at Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bombay, the native of Jamshedpur was very excited — and “a little dissatisfied, since I couldn’t do biology anymore.”

Now a PhD candidate and a MathWorks Fellow in MIT’s Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Kumar can merge his wide-ranging interests. He studies the effect of certain bacteria that have been observed encouraging the spread of ovarian cancer and possibly reducing the effectiveness of chemotherapy and immunotherapy.

“Some microbes have an affinity toward infecting ovarian cancer cells, which can lead to changes in the cellular structure and reprogramming cells to survive in stressful conditions,” Kumar says. “This means that cells can migrate to different sites and may have a mechanism to develop chemoresistance. This opens an avenue to develop therapies to see if we can start to undo some of these changes.”

Kumar’s research combines microbiology, bioengineering, artificial intelligence, big data, and materials science. Using microbiome sequencing and AI, he aims to define microbiome changes that may correlate with poor patient outcomes. Ultimately, his goal is to engineer bacteriophage viruses to reprogram bacteria to work therapeutically.

Kumar started inching toward work in the health sciences just months into earning his bachelor’s degree at IIT Bombay.

“I realized engineering is so flexible that its applications extend to any field,” he says, adding that he started working with biomaterials “to respect both my degree program and my interests.”

“I loved it so much that I decided to go to graduate school,” he adds.

Starting his PhD program at MIT, he says, “was a fantastic opportunity to switch gears and work on more interdisciplinary or ‘MIT-type’ work.”

Kumar says he and Angela Belcher, the James Mason Crafts Professor of biological engineering and materials science, began discussing the impact of the microbiome on ovarian cancer when he first arrived at MIT.

“I shared my enthusiasm about human health and biology, and we started brainstorming,” he says. “We realized that there’s an unmet need to understand a lot of gynecological cancers. Ovarian cancer is an aggressive cancer, which is usually diagnosed when it’s too late and has already spread.”

In 2022, Kumar was awarded a MathWorks Fellowship. The fellowships are awarded to School of Engineering graduate students, preferably those who use MATLAB or Simulink — which were developed by the mathematical computer software company MathWorks — in their research. The philanthropic support fueled Kumar’s full transition into health science research.

“The work we are doing now was initially not funded by traditional sources, and the MathWorks Fellowship gave us the flexibility to pursue this field,” Kumar says. “It provided me with opportunities to learn new skills and ask questions about this topic. MathWorks gave me a chance to explore my interests and helped me navigate from being a steel engineer to a cancer scientist.”

Kumar’s work on the relationship between bacteria and ovarian cancer started with studying which bacteria are incorporated into tumors in mouse models.

“We started looking closely at changes in cell structure and how those changes impact cancer progression,” he says, adding that MATLAB image processing helps him and his collaborators track tumor metastasis.

The research team also uses RNA sequencing and MATLAB algorithms to construct a taxonomy of the bacteria.

“Once we have identified the microbiome composition,” Kumar says, “we want to see how the microbiome changes as cancer progresses and identify changes in, let’s say, patients who develop chemoresistance.”

He says recent findings that ovarian cancer may originate in the fallopian tubes are promising because detecting cancer-related biomarkers or lesions before cancer spreads to the ovaries could lead to better prognoses.

As he pursues his research, Kumar says he is extremely thankful to Belcher “for believing in me to work on this project.

“She trusted me and my passion for making an impact on human health — even though I come from a materials engineering background — and supported me throughout. It was her passion to take on new challenges that made it possible for me to work on this idea. She has been an amazing mentor and motivated me to continue moving forward.”

For her part, Belcher is equally enthralled.

“It has been amazing to work with Ashutosh on this ovarian cancer microbiome project,” she says. “He has been so passionate and dedicated to looking for less-conventional approaches to solve this debilitating disease. His innovations around looking for very early changes in the microenvironment of this disease could be critical in interception and prevention of ovarian cancer. We started this project with very little preliminary data, so his MathWorks fellowship was critical in the initiation of the project.”

Kumar, who has been very active in student government and community-building activities, believes it is very important for students to feel included and at home at their institutions so they can develop in ways outside of academics. He says that his own involvement helps him take time off from work.

“Science can never stop, and there will always be something to do,” he says, explaining that he deliberately schedules time off and that social engagement helps him to experience downtime. “Engaging with community members through events on campus or at the dorm helps set a mental boundary with work.”

Regarding his unusual route through materials science to cancer research, Kumar regards it as something that occurred organically.

“I have observed that life is very dynamic,” he says. “What we think we might do versus what we end up doing is never consistent. Five years back, I had no idea I would be at MIT working with such excellent scientific mentors around me.”

[packagingskunkjars]

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