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If there is any advice Col. Kirk Gibbs can give to his successor, it is this: Lead with honor and humility.
As Gibbs, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Los Angeles District’s 61st commander, prepares to relinquish command of the LA District July 19 to Col. Aaron Barta, he offered up some advice and reflected on the past three years as the leader of one of the largest Corps districts in the country.
There are many things Gibbs said he is proud of when it comes to the LA District, but three things stand out: the District being recognized two years in a row as a "Best Place to Work" in the Corps; completing Weed Army Hospital at Fort Irwin, California – the Department of Defense’s only Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design-Platinum, carbon-neutral, net-zero certifiable hospital – on time and within budget; and the one-on-one time he was able to spend with employees in the District.
It is the people Gibbs said he will miss the most – the employees and the District’s close partners across the four-state area.
“I have never focused on relationships like I have here in this District, and I sincerely believe it is part of the District's culture,” he said. “When projects are tough, the close relationships get us through those challenges and ultimately deliver the program.”
During his time with the LA District, Gibbs has overseen a multimillion-dollar program that provides engineering, construction, planning, contracting, real estate, emergency operations, environmental and regulatory services to military, federal, state and local governments across a 226,000-square-mile area of Southern California, Nevada, Arizona and Utah. That also includes leading about 750 military and civilian personnel with a wide array of expertise.
But leading people is nothing new to Gibbs, who has served for more than 24 years as an active-duty Soldier, leading both military and civilian personnel.
“Each person is different, and I have learned that good leaders get to know each person individually and then lead them in a way that brings out the best in that employee,” he said.
Providing priorities and a solid intent on the District’s missions, particularly disaster response operations, helps employees stay focused on what’s really important, he said.
Gibbs will now serve as the chief of staff at the Corps’ headquarters in Washington, D.C. There, he said, he hopes to be an advocate for all of the Corps’ districts nationwide.
“I feel that this District and the great people are responsible for giving me the incredible opportunity of being the Corps’ chief of staff,” he said. “The people have taught me so much, and I will take that with me to make a positive impact on the Corps’ enterprise and help our Districts deliver our programs in civil works, military, Interagency and International Services, real estate and regulatory.”
Gibbs knows how the importance of mentors and having a good support system have played in shaping his career, and he credits his parents with instilling in him respect for others; his wife, Kim, who taught him to endure all challenges, no matter how great, with grace and dignity; and his former chief of staff – Col. Steve Hill – for giving him tough jobs to prepare him for success.
“(Hill) gave me tough jobs that I thought he could have done at the time, but as I look back, the toughest assignments he gave me in that civilian organization at the Corps headquarters prepared me for District command and enabled me to achieve the goal of commanding at the battalion, brigade and District levels,” he said. “I also remember he told me I would be a chief of staff for the Corps one day. He was preparing me for that. I didn't believe him, but that is my next job.”
And, as for additional advice he can share with Barta, Gibbs provided these words of wisdom:
- Be prepared to change leadership style when leading a District of professional civilians. Don't lead them in the same way as Soldiers;
- Engage with people and get around to see them across the District's entire area of operation. Don't sit behind a desk;
- Study hard initially and learn the policies, processes and programs. “You will never be the expert, but you must prepare yourself to make effective decisions as quickly as possible”;
- Always provide a commander's intent and an end state. The civilian workforce appreciates that; and, lastly,
- Lead with honor and humility. “It isn't about you. It is about the District's people and our vital mission.”
As for the future of the LA District, Gibbs said he hopes future leaders continue to change the culture to an organization that is more risk tolerant in streamlining processes and moving projects forward; deliver the Department of Veterans Affairs and Customs and Border Protection programs phenomenally – on time, within budget and to the highest quality; and to remain a "Best Place to Work" in order to retain and recruit talent to the high-cost living area of Southern California.
“I want the District to do what it always does and ‘knock those programs out of the park,’” he said.
One of the most quintessentially Japanese traits is humility. Japanese rate themselves at levels far less positively than North Americans (about 1.6 times less positively), despite objective indicators e.g. longevity and obesity, being more positive. This tendency to respond negatively to linguistic self appraisals is especially concentrated in the Western end of the main Island of Japan, in Yamaguchi, Tottori and Shimane as shown in the above graph.
Yamaguchians rate themselves the fourth least happy prefecture in answer to the question "How happy do you feel yourself to be usually, as a whole where 0 is very unhappy and 20 is extremely happy" ("全体として，あなたは普段どの程度幸福だと感じていますか。0（非常に不幸）～10（非常に幸福）から最も近いものを 1 つ選んでください) despite the fact that measures that take into account objective data such as house size and divorce rate, conversely show that Yamaguchi is 4th from the top most happy prefecture in Japan. This discrepancy displayed by the Japanese as a whole, is strongest in Yamaguchi, which I argue was the origin of the Yamato, the furusato, "hometown", nucleus, or the heartland of Japan.
That Fukushima residents rate themselves as unhappy may have more to do with the disaster that unfortunately occurred there. I am not sure about Saga Prefecture, whose inhabitants rate themselves as third most unhappy. Saga is the home prefecture of my wife.
Other attributes shared by the Japanese and especially by the inhabitants of Yamaguchi include the tendency to recycle garbage, and the tendency to remain slim. Japan is equal 3rd in the world behind Switzerland and Germany by the amount of landfill garbage produced by its inhabitants. Yamaguchi produces the second least amount of garbage per person in Japan behind Mie Prefecture. Japan has the lowest percentage of obesity among OECD countries and Yamaguchi prefecture has the lowest incidence of obesity among males of all the prefectures in Japan. I argue that Japanese slimness is related to the fact that they, their progenitors the Yamato, and Yamaguchians in particular, have a tendency to worship a mirror, and identify with their mirror image.
The Chinese historians who reported on Yamatai nation noted the high standard of morals (Yamaguchi has the 13th lowest level of crime). These historians also mentioned the longevity of the Yamatai people, a trait shared by the Japanese as a whole to this day, but Yamaguchians are no especially long-lived, coming in at 39th for males at 79.0 compared to 80.9 in Nagao, and 36th for women, at 86.1 compared to 87.2 for Nagano. The percentage of persons over 100 years old in Yamaguchi is however, 7th highest in the country. The historians also mentioned that the Yamatai people had a weakness for drink, but Yamaguchians are not special among Japanese in this respect coming in at about the middle of the ranking for consumption of alcohol. The Chinese historians noted that there was little ageism or sexism among the Yamatai nationals. Yamaguchi has the 5th highest percentage of female university students, and like the other top five prefectures, the only prefectures where that ratio is greater than one.
This is the origin of the above graph
浦川邦夫. (2011). 幸福度研究の現状. 日本労働研究雑誌, 612, 4-15.
www.jil.go.jp/institute/zassi/backnumber/2011/07/pdf/004-...
The table below shows prefectural happiness based on objective measures, especially I think in the fourth column, which excludes subjective pronouncements, where Yamaguchi is 4th happiest
asahi-ad.co.jp/images/column/201810/img01_b.pdf
This shows the measures that are used
Dear Friends,
I want to let you know that I have just announced my candidacy for the United States Congress in the seat currently held by my friend, Congressman Robert Wexler, who is accepting a new position at the Center for Middle East Peace.
I make this announcement with great excitement and humility. I am gratified by the incredible encouragement and support that I have already received for this race, and I am extremely excited about the opportunity to be your voice in Congress.
Congressman Wexler served this community tirelessly for nineteen years. I am saddened to see him leave, but I am excited about the opportunity to continue to fight for the issues that he supports and that our community cares so desperately about.
Visit www.TedForCongress.com and Join Today!
This is a time of extraordinary challenges, both at home and abroad. I am running for Congress because I want to work hard every day to help solve the difficult challenges that the citizens of South Florida are currently facing.
I will bring to Congress the same strong work ethic and common sense that I took to Tallahassee. I am proud of the results that I have delivered in the Florida State Senate on education and seniors, health care, and through my initiative to ensure that the retirement funds of Florida’s workers do not support Iran’s illicit quest for nuclear weapons or genocide in Darfur.
Congressman Wexler will be leaving office in January which means his replacement will be filled by a special election that is just months away. This campaign will require an enormous amount of hard work, and if we are going to be successful, we will need to get to work immediately.
I am counting on the support of my friends and supporters who have seen my record of success in Tallahassee and my willingness to work hard to get results. Please join the campaign by going to www.tedforcongress.com, and consider making a financial contribution to my campaign.
Most Congressional campaigns are marathons - this one is a sprint. In order to win, I need lots of volunteers and workers, and I also need to raise over two million dollars in three months. This is no easy task, but with your help, I can do it.
Please Donate Today
You may contribute online today at my website, www.tedforcongress.com, or checks can be made payable to "Deutch for Congress" and sent to 20423 SR7, Suite f-6-383, Boca Raton, FL 33498.
I ask for your support to help me win a race for Congress. Please join my campaign today. I cannot wait to work on your behalf in the United States Congress.
My family and I thank you for your incredible support.
Warmest regards,
Senator Ted Deutch
P.S. Anything you can do to support my efforts is greatly appreciated. Please note that the maximum contribution an individual can make is $4,800 per person, and $9,600 per couple. Corporate contributions are forbidden by federal law.
P.P.S. Please forward this message to your friends and family, and ask them to join our campaign and contribute at www.TedForCongress.com.
Here is some information about me to share with your friends:
Senator Deutch Ideally Situated Senate District Make Him a Formidable Candidate
Senator Deutch’s senate district is ideally situated for a successful congressional campaign for the 19th District seat. Deutch already represents many more voters in the 19th District then any other elected official. In fact, Deutch currently represents almost half of the district’s voters. Wexler also represented this senate district prior to his successful run for Congress. Also like Deutch’s current state senate district, the 19th District is overwhelmingly located in Palm Beach County.
About Senator Ted Deutch
Senator Ted Deutch is an accomplished legislator who has passed legislation on critical issues that have benefited seniors, public education, national security, and victims of the Holocaust. Deutch, 43, was elected to the Florida State Senate in November 2006. His state senate district is largely located in Palm Beach County and includes some portions of north Broward County.
Deutch received national recognition and testified before Congress for his successful legislative efforts ensuring that the retirement funds of Florida workers to not support Iran’s illicit quest for nuclear weapons or genocide in Darfur. In 2009, Senator Deutch passed legislation that will reduce youth smoking and fund up to $1 billion in critical health care programs in Florida, including $50 million per year in dedicated cancer research funding.
In the Senate, Deutch has also passed legislation protecting children, improving health care insurance for seniors, and through his efforts he helped secure a new senior center in Palm Beach County.
Ted’s commitment to public service earned him the prestigious Harry S Truman Scholarship and his civic and philanthropic work earned him the James and Marjorie Baer Leadership Award from the Jewish Federation of South Palm Beach County. He also has been honored for his efforts in the State Senate, most recently being named National Distinguished Advocacy Award by the American Cancer society, and receiving the Florida Education Association’s Champion of Public Education Award.
A native of Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, Ted is the son of Jean Deutch and the late Bernard Deutch, who earned a Purple Heart serving his country during World War II. A graduate of the University of Michigan and the University of Michigan Law School, Ted is an attorney with the Florida law firm of Broad and Cassel. He currently lives in Boca Raton, Florida with his wife of 18 years, Jill, his 14 year-old twin daughters, Gabrielle and Serena and his 10 year-old son, Cole.
For more information visit www.tedforcongress.com
O God, please help all family members to reconcile with one another.
Please teach all of us to say “sorry” for any wrong we have done to others.
Please teach us to accept any apology from others.
That The Holy Spirit of Forgiveness may reign in the family.
For God is pleased with those who are humble to admit their faults.
And God is please with those who even do the effort to reconcile with others.
That our Hearts be freed from uncomfortable feelings and resentments.
And our Spiritual Life be purified with Inner Peace through one another.
May handshakes, smiles, laughter, tears of joys, warm hugs and pats on the back –
Be our little kind expressions of our humility to reconcile with one another.
For God forgives those who forgives others.
May The Holy Spirit of Forgiveness and Peace reign throughout all families!
Amen.
“To become truly great, one has to stand with people, not above them.”
- Marleen Charles de Montesquieu
O God, may all families strive to unite as One Heart by being of service to each other.
For all family members are responsible for each other through care and compassion.
The same way Our Lord Jesus Christ served the Poor, the Needy and the disciples –
So we too as followers of Our Lord that we may learn to meet the needs of our family members.
Our servitude to our family may not only mean helping in household chores,
But also Spiritual guidance in everything we do in the path of Holy Virtues of Love.
That to be of service is also to protect the Spirituality of each other through Humility and Peace.
As all family members be equally of service amongst each other.
Amen.
I-Spy Bubbles for May's Humility Circle Quilt - I loved getting to dig through my novelty fabrics to pick out the "bubbles"! Can't wait to see this one done!
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ganina_Yama
'Ganina Yama (Russian: Ганина Яма, "Ganya's Pit") was a 9' deep pit[1] in the Four Brothers mine near the village of Koptyaki, 15 km north from Yekaterinburg. On the night of 17 July 1918 the bodies of Tsar Nicholas II of Russia and his family (who had been murdered at the Ipatiev House) were secretly transported to Ganina Yama and thrown into the pit.
A week later, the White Army drove the Bolsheviks from the area and launched an investigation into the fate of the royal family. An extensive report [2] concluded that the royal family's remains had been cremated at the mine, since evidence of fire was found and charred bones, but no bodies. But the Bolsheviks, realizing that the burial site was no longer a secret, had returned to the site the night after the first burial to relocate the bodies to another area. The secret Bolshevik report on the execution and burial did not give the location of the second burial site, but the description provided clues.[3]
The second burial site, a field known as Porosenkov Ravine (Поросёнков лог) four and a half miles from Ganina Yama (56.9113628°N 60.4954326°E), was discovered in the late 1970s through clandestine research but kept secret until the political climate changed in 1989.[4] In 1995, the remains found at the Porosenkov Ravine were identified as Romanovs using DNA from living relatives of Nicholas and Alexandra's parents. The Porosenkov Ravine burial pit is marked by a cross and simple landscaping of the burial pit. A second, smaller pit was located at the Porosenkov Ravine in 2007 containing the remains of two Romanov children missing from the larger grave. Further excavation is planned for the summer of 2009.[5]
The Russian Orthodox Church, relying on the pro-monarchist White Army's report in preference to any Bolshevik or government-supplied information, and doubting the DNA identification, declared the Ganina Yama site holy ground. (Romanov family descendants likewise have doubts about the DNA identification.) The royal family and their retinue had been canonized in 1981 by the Russian Orthodox Church Abroad. The grounds were therefore dedicated to honor the family's humility during capture and their status as political martyrs. With financial assistance from the Ural Mining and Metallurgical Company, the Church constructed the Monastery of the Holy Tsarist Passion-Bearers at the site in 2001. A tall cross marks the edge of the mine shaft, visible as a depression in the ground.
Seven chapels were later constructed at the site, one for each member of the royal family. Each chapel is dedicated to a particular saint or relic. The katholikon is dedicated to the Theotokos Derzhavnaya, an icon particularly revered by the monarchists; it burnt to the ground on 14 September 2010 but is slated to be restored. On the anniversary of the murder, a night-long service is held at the Church of All Saints (Church on the Blood) on the site of the Ipatiev House. At daybreak, a procession walks four hours to Ganina Yama for another ceremony. The former mine pit is covered with lily plants for the ceremony.'
O God, please bless all families that we may be in One Holy Spirit.
To be One in spreading Holy Virtues of protecting our Spirituality as a family.
That even if we are amidst this world that yearns for Love,
But with the Truth about Family Love that we have become free as a Dove of Peace.
To return to God the Father, Our Lord Jesus Christ, and Mother Mary in Heaven
And that our Mission is also to set free the hearts of everyone –
Through God’s Divine Truths about Holy Virtues of Family Love
Such as Humility, Forgiveness, Generosity, Justice, Peace, and Joy.
Amen.
Dear Friends,
I want to let you know that I have just announced my candidacy for the United States Congress in the seat currently held by my friend, Congressman Robert Wexler, who is accepting a new position at the Center for Middle East Peace.
I make this announcement with great excitement and humility. I am gratified by the incredible encouragement and support that I have already received for this race, and I am extremely excited about the opportunity to be your voice in Congress.
Congressman Wexler served this community tirelessly for nineteen years. I am saddened to see him leave, but I am excited about the opportunity to continue to fight for the issues that he supports and that our community cares so desperately about.
Visit www.TedforCongress.com and Join Today!
This is a time of extraordinary challenges, both at home and abroad. I am running for Congress because I want to work hard every day to help solve the difficult challenges that the citizens of South Florida are currently facing.
I will bring to Congress the same strong work ethic and common sense that I took to Tallahassee. I am proud of the results that I have delivered in the Florida State Senate on education and seniors, health care, and through my initiative to ensure that the retirement funds of Florida’s workers do not support Iran’s illicit quest for nuclear weapons or genocide in Darfur.
Congressman Wexler will be leaving office in January which means his replacement will be filled by a special election that is just months away. This campaign will require an enormous amount of hard work, and if we are going to be successful, we will need to get to work immediately.
I am counting on the support of my friends and supporters who have seen my record of success in Tallahassee and my willingness to work hard to get results. Please join the campaign by going to www.tedforcongress.com, and consider making a financial contribution to my campaign.
Most Congressional campaigns are marathons - this one is a sprint. In order to win, I need lots of volunteers and workers, and I also need to raise over two million dollars in three months. This is no easy task, but with your help, I can do it.
Please Donate Today
You may contribute online today at my website, www.tedforcongress.com, or checks can be made payable to "Deutch for Congress" and sent to 20423 SR7, Suite f-6-383, Boca Raton, FL 33498.
I ask for your support to help me win a race for Congress. Please join my campaign today. I cannot wait to work on your behalf in the United States Congress.
My family and I thank you for your incredible support.
Warmest regards,
Senator Ted Deutch
P.S. Anything you can do to support my efforts is greatly appreciated. Please note that the maximum contribution an individual can make is $4,800 per person, and $9,600 per couple. Corporate contributions are forbidden by federal law.
P.P.S. Please forward this message to your friends and family, and ask them to join our campaign and contribute at www.TedForCongress.com.
Here is some information about me to share with your friends:
Senator Deutch Ideally Situated Senate District Make Him a Formidable Candidate
Senator Deutch’s senate district is ideally situated for a successful congressional campaign for the 19th District seat. Deutch already represents many more voters in the 19th District then any other elected official. In fact, Deutch currently represents almost half of the district’s voters. Wexler also represented this senate district prior to his successful run for Congress. Also like Deutch’s current state senate district, the 19th District is overwhelmingly located in Palm Beach County.
About Senator Ted Deutch
Senator Ted Deutch is an accomplished legislator who has passed legislation on critical issues that have benefited seniors, public education, national security, and victims of the Holocaust. Deutch, 43, was elected to the Florida State Senate in November 2006. His state senate district is largely located in Palm Beach County and includes some portions of north Broward County.
Deutch received national recognition and testified before Congress for his successful legislative efforts ensuring that the retirement funds of Florida workers to not support Iran’s illicit quest for nuclear weapons or genocide in Darfur. In 2009, Senator Deutch passed legislation that will reduce youth smoking and fund up to $1 billion in critical health care programs in Florida, including $50 million per year in dedicated cancer research funding.
In the Senate, Deutch has also passed legislation protecting children, improving health care insurance for seniors, and through his efforts he helped secure a new senior center in Palm Beach County.
Ted’s commitment to public service earned him the prestigious Harry S Truman Scholarship and his civic and philanthropic work earned him the James and Marjorie Baer Leadership Award from the Jewish Federation of South Palm Beach County. He also has been honored for his efforts in the State Senate, most recently being named National Distinguished Advocacy Award by the American Cancer society, and receiving the Florida Education Association’s Champion of Public Education Award.
A native of Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, Ted is the son of Jean Deutch and the late Bernard Deutch, who earned a Purple Heart serving his country during World War II. A graduate of the University of Michigan and the University of Michigan Law School, Ted is an attorney with the Florida law firm of Broad and Cassel. He currently lives in Boca Raton, Florida with his wife of 18 years, Jill, his 14 year-old twin daughters, Gabrielle and Serena and his 10 year-old son, Cole.
For more information visit www.tedforcongress.com
Adventures in Seeing - Humility (1)
These are a few of my favourite kitchen tools... simple, functional, unadorned... producing such humble fare as biscuits, scones, and apple crisp. Baking with these simple hand tools brings me in touch with the process and the feel of what I'm making, a sensation I don't get when using more high-tech gadgets.
If there is any advice Col. Kirk Gibbs can give to his successor, it is this: Lead with honor and humility.
As Gibbs, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Los Angeles District’s 61st commander, prepares to relinquish command of the LA District July 19 to Col. Aaron Barta, he offered up some advice and reflected on the past three years as the leader of one of the largest Corps districts in the country.
There are many things Gibbs said he is proud of when it comes to the LA District, but three things stand out: the District being recognized two years in a row as a "Best Place to Work" in the Corps; completing Weed Army Hospital at Fort Irwin, California – the Department of Defense’s only Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design-Platinum, carbon-neutral, net-zero certifiable hospital – on time and within budget; and the one-on-one time he was able to spend with employees in the District.
It is the people Gibbs said he will miss the most – the employees and the District’s close partners across the four-state area.
“I have never focused on relationships like I have here in this District, and I sincerely believe it is part of the District's culture,” he said. “When projects are tough, the close relationships get us through those challenges and ultimately deliver the program.”
During his time with the LA District, Gibbs has overseen a multimillion-dollar program that provides engineering, construction, planning, contracting, real estate, emergency operations, environmental and regulatory services to military, federal, state and local governments across a 226,000-square-mile area of Southern California, Nevada, Arizona and Utah. That also includes leading about 750 military and civilian personnel with a wide array of expertise.
But leading people is nothing new to Gibbs, who has served for more than 24 years as an active-duty Soldier, leading both military and civilian personnel.
“Each person is different, and I have learned that good leaders get to know each person individually and then lead them in a way that brings out the best in that employee,” he said.
Providing priorities and a solid intent on the District’s missions, particularly disaster response operations, helps employees stay focused on what’s really important, he said.
Gibbs will now serve as the chief of staff at the Corps’ headquarters in Washington, D.C. There, he said, he hopes to be an advocate for all of the Corps’ districts nationwide.
“I feel that this District and the great people are responsible for giving me the incredible opportunity of being the Corps’ chief of staff,” he said. “The people have taught me so much, and I will take that with me to make a positive impact on the Corps’ enterprise and help our Districts deliver our programs in civil works, military, Interagency and International Services, real estate and regulatory.”
Gibbs knows how the importance of mentors and having a good support system have played in shaping his career, and he credits his parents with instilling in him respect for others; his wife, Kim, who taught him to endure all challenges, no matter how great, with grace and dignity; and his former chief of staff – Col. Steve Hill – for giving him tough jobs to prepare him for success.
“(Hill) gave me tough jobs that I thought he could have done at the time, but as I look back, the toughest assignments he gave me in that civilian organization at the Corps headquarters prepared me for District command and enabled me to achieve the goal of commanding at the battalion, brigade and District levels,” he said. “I also remember he told me I would be a chief of staff for the Corps one day. He was preparing me for that. I didn't believe him, but that is my next job.”
And, as for additional advice he can share with Barta, Gibbs provided these words of wisdom:
- Be prepared to change leadership style when leading a District of professional civilians. Don't lead them in the same way as Soldiers;
- Engage with people and get around to see them across the District's entire area of operation. Don't sit behind a desk;
- Study hard initially and learn the policies, processes and programs. “You will never be the expert, but you must prepare yourself to make effective decisions as quickly as possible”;
- Always provide a commander's intent and an end state. The civilian workforce appreciates that; and, lastly,
- Lead with honor and humility. “It isn't about you. It is about the District's people and our vital mission.”
As for the future of the LA District, Gibbs said he hopes future leaders continue to change the culture to an organization that is more risk tolerant in streamlining processes and moving projects forward; deliver the Department of Veterans Affairs and Customs and Border Protection programs phenomenally – on time, within budget and to the highest quality; and to remain a "Best Place to Work" in order to retain and recruit talent to the high-cost living area of Southern California.
“I want the District to do what it always does and ‘knock those programs out of the park,’” he said.
What the world needs is more geniuses with humility. There are so few of us left.
— Oscar Levant
Typeface: Boberia
If there is any advice Col. Kirk Gibbs can give to his successor, it is this: Lead with honor and humility.
As Gibbs, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Los Angeles District’s 61st commander, prepares to relinquish command of the LA District July 19 to Col. Aaron Barta, he offered up some advice and reflected on the past three years as the leader of one of the largest Corps districts in the country.
There are many things Gibbs said he is proud of when it comes to the LA District, but three things stand out: the District being recognized two years in a row as a "Best Place to Work" in the Corps; completing Weed Army Hospital at Fort Irwin, California – the Department of Defense’s only Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design-Platinum, carbon-neutral, net-zero certifiable hospital – on time and within budget; and the one-on-one time he was able to spend with employees in the District.
It is the people Gibbs said he will miss the most – the employees and the District’s close partners across the four-state area.
“I have never focused on relationships like I have here in this District, and I sincerely believe it is part of the District's culture,” he said. “When projects are tough, the close relationships get us through those challenges and ultimately deliver the program.”
During his time with the LA District, Gibbs has overseen a multimillion-dollar program that provides engineering, construction, planning, contracting, real estate, emergency operations, environmental and regulatory services to military, federal, state and local governments across a 226,000-square-mile area of Southern California, Nevada, Arizona and Utah. That also includes leading about 750 military and civilian personnel with a wide array of expertise.
But leading people is nothing new to Gibbs, who has served for more than 24 years as an active-duty Soldier, leading both military and civilian personnel.
“Each person is different, and I have learned that good leaders get to know each person individually and then lead them in a way that brings out the best in that employee,” he said.
Providing priorities and a solid intent on the District’s missions, particularly disaster response operations, helps employees stay focused on what’s really important, he said.
Gibbs will now serve as the chief of staff at the Corps’ headquarters in Washington, D.C. There, he said, he hopes to be an advocate for all of the Corps’ districts nationwide.
“I feel that this District and the great people are responsible for giving me the incredible opportunity of being the Corps’ chief of staff,” he said. “The people have taught me so much, and I will take that with me to make a positive impact on the Corps’ enterprise and help our Districts deliver our programs in civil works, military, Interagency and International Services, real estate and regulatory.”
Gibbs knows how the importance of mentors and having a good support system have played in shaping his career, and he credits his parents with instilling in him respect for others; his wife, Kim, who taught him to endure all challenges, no matter how great, with grace and dignity; and his former chief of staff – Col. Steve Hill – for giving him tough jobs to prepare him for success.
“(Hill) gave me tough jobs that I thought he could have done at the time, but as I look back, the toughest assignments he gave me in that civilian organization at the Corps headquarters prepared me for District command and enabled me to achieve the goal of commanding at the battalion, brigade and District levels,” he said. “I also remember he told me I would be a chief of staff for the Corps one day. He was preparing me for that. I didn't believe him, but that is my next job.”
And, as for additional advice he can share with Barta, Gibbs provided these words of wisdom:
- Be prepared to change leadership style when leading a District of professional civilians. Don't lead them in the same way as Soldiers;
- Engage with people and get around to see them across the District's entire area of operation. Don't sit behind a desk;
- Study hard initially and learn the policies, processes and programs. “You will never be the expert, but you must prepare yourself to make effective decisions as quickly as possible”;
- Always provide a commander's intent and an end state. The civilian workforce appreciates that; and, lastly,
- Lead with honor and humility. “It isn't about you. It is about the District's people and our vital mission.”
As for the future of the LA District, Gibbs said he hopes future leaders continue to change the culture to an organization that is more risk tolerant in streamlining processes and moving projects forward; deliver the Department of Veterans Affairs and Customs and Border Protection programs phenomenally – on time, within budget and to the highest quality; and to remain a "Best Place to Work" in order to retain and recruit talent to the high-cost living area of Southern California.
“I want the District to do what it always does and ‘knock those programs out of the park,’” he said.
The Diocese of Clifton lead by their bishop spent a week walking in the footsteps of st francis and st clare. It was p time of deepening prayer, enabling communion and strengthening mission, bringing us back to being a people of faith, hope, love, and humility.
© Mazur/catholicnews.org.uk
Dear Friends,
I want to let you know that I have just announced my candidacy for the United States Congress in the seat currently held by my friend, Congressman Robert Wexler, who is accepting a new position at the Center for Middle East Peace.
I make this announcement with great excitement and humility. I am gratified by the incredible encouragement and support that I have already received for this race, and I am extremely excited about the opportunity to be your voice in Congress.
Congressman Wexler served this community tirelessly for nineteen years. I am saddened to see him leave, but I am excited about the opportunity to continue to fight for the issues that he supports and that our community cares so desperately about.
Visit www.TedForCongress.com and Join Today!
This is a time of extraordinary challenges, both at home and abroad. I am running for Congress because I want to work hard every day to help solve the difficult challenges that the citizens of South Florida are currently facing.
I will bring to Congress the same strong work ethic and common sense that I took to Tallahassee. I am proud of the results that I have delivered in the Florida State Senate on education and seniors, health care, and through my initiative to ensure that the retirement funds of Florida’s workers do not support Iran’s illicit quest for nuclear weapons or genocide in Darfur.
Congressman Wexler will be leaving office in January which means his replacement will be filled by a special election that is just months away. This campaign will require an enormous amount of hard work, and if we are going to be successful, we will need to get to work immediately.
I am counting on the support of my friends and supporters who have seen my record of success in Tallahassee and my willingness to work hard to get results. Please join the campaign by going to www.tedforcongress.com, and consider making a financial contribution to my campaign.
Most Congressional campaigns are marathons - this one is a sprint. In order to win, I need lots of volunteers and workers, and I also need to raise over two million dollars in three months. This is no easy task, but with your help, I can do it.
Please Donate Today
You may contribute online today at my website, www.tedforcongress.com, or checks can be made payable to "Deutch for Congress" and sent to 20423 SR7, Suite f-6-383, Boca Raton, FL 33498.
I ask for your support to help me win a race for Congress. Please join my campaign today. I cannot wait to work on your behalf in the United States Congress.
My family and I thank you for your incredible support.
Warmest regards,
Senator Ted Deutch
P.S. Anything you can do to support my efforts is greatly appreciated. Please note that the maximum contribution an individual can make is $4,800 per person, and $9,600 per couple. Corporate contributions are forbidden by federal law.
P.P.S. Please forward this message to your friends and family, and ask them to join our campaign and contribute at www.TedForCongress.com.
Here is some information about me to share with your friends:
Senator Deutch Ideally Situated Senate District Make Him a Formidable Candidate
Senator Deutch’s senate district is ideally situated for a successful congressional campaign for the 19th District seat. Deutch already represents many more voters in the 19th District then any other elected official. In fact, Deutch currently represents almost half of the district’s voters. Wexler also represented this senate district prior to his successful run for Congress. Also like Deutch’s current state senate district, the 19th District is overwhelmingly located in Palm Beach County.
About Senator Ted Deutch
Senator Ted Deutch is an accomplished legislator who has passed legislation on critical issues that have benefited seniors, public education, national security, and victims of the Holocaust. Deutch, 43, was elected to the Florida State Senate in November 2006. His state senate district is largely located in Palm Beach County and includes some portions of north Broward County.
Deutch received national recognition and testified before Congress for his successful legislative efforts ensuring that the retirement funds of Florida workers to not support Iran’s illicit quest for nuclear weapons or genocide in Darfur. In 2009, Senator Deutch passed legislation that will reduce youth smoking and fund up to $1 billion in critical health care programs in Florida, including $50 million per year in dedicated cancer research funding.
In the Senate, Deutch has also passed legislation protecting children, improving health care insurance for seniors, and through his efforts he helped secure a new senior center in Palm Beach County.
Ted’s commitment to public service earned him the prestigious Harry S Truman Scholarship and his civic and philanthropic work earned him the James and Marjorie Baer Leadership Award from the Jewish Federation of South Palm Beach County. He also has been honored for his efforts in the State Senate, most recently being named National Distinguished Advocacy Award by the American Cancer society, and receiving the Florida Education Association’s Champion of Public Education Award.
A native of Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, Ted is the son of Jean Deutch and the late Bernard Deutch, who earned a Purple Heart serving his country during World War II. A graduate of the University of Michigan and the University of Michigan Law School, Ted is an attorney with the Florida law firm of Broad and Cassel. He currently lives in Boca Raton, Florida with his wife of 18 years, Jill, his 14 year-old twin daughters, Gabrielle and Serena and his 10 year-old son, Cole.
For more information visit www.tedforcongress.com
Dear Friends,
I want to let you know that I have just announced my candidacy for the United States Congress in the seat currently held by my friend, Congressman Robert Wexler, who is accepting a new position at the Center for Middle East Peace.
I make this announcement with great excitement and humility. I am gratified by the incredible encouragement and support that I have already received for this race, and I am extremely excited about the opportunity to be your voice in Congress.
Congressman Wexler served this community tirelessly for nineteen years. I am saddened to see him leave, but I am excited about the opportunity to continue to fight for the issues that he supports and that our community cares so desperately about.
Visit www.TedForCongress.com and Join Today!
This is a time of extraordinary challenges, both at home and abroad. I am running for Congress because I want to work hard every day to help solve the difficult challenges that the citizens of South Florida are currently facing.
I will bring to Congress the same strong work ethic and common sense that I took to Tallahassee. I am proud of the results that I have delivered in the Florida State Senate on education and seniors, health care, and through my initiative to ensure that the retirement funds of Florida’s workers do not support Iran’s illicit quest for nuclear weapons or genocide in Darfur.
Congressman Wexler will be leaving office in January which means his replacement will be filled by a special election that is just months away. This campaign will require an enormous amount of hard work, and if we are going to be successful, we will need to get to work immediately.
I am counting on the support of my friends and supporters who have seen my record of success in Tallahassee and my willingness to work hard to get results. Please join the campaign by going to www.tedforcongress.com, and consider making a financial contribution to my campaign.
Most Congressional campaigns are marathons - this one is a sprint. In order to win, I need lots of volunteers and workers, and I also need to raise over two million dollars in three months. This is no easy task, but with your help, I can do it.
Please Donate Today
You may contribute online today at my website, www.tedforcongress.com, or checks can be made payable to "Deutch for Congress" and sent to 20423 SR7, Suite f-6-383, Boca Raton, FL 33498.
I ask for your support to help me win a race for Congress. Please join my campaign today. I cannot wait to work on your behalf in the United States Congress.
My family and I thank you for your incredible support.
Warmest regards,
Senator Ted Deutch
P.S. Anything you can do to support my efforts is greatly appreciated. Please note that the maximum contribution an individual can make is $4,800 per person, and $9,600 per couple. Corporate contributions are forbidden by federal law.
P.P.S. Please forward this message to your friends and family, and ask them to join our campaign and contribute at www.TedForCongress.com.
Here is some information about me to share with your friends:
Senator Deutch Ideally Situated Senate District Make Him a Formidable Candidate
Senator Deutch’s senate district is ideally situated for a successful congressional campaign for the 19th District seat. Deutch already represents many more voters in the 19th District then any other elected official. In fact, Deutch currently represents almost half of the district’s voters. Wexler also represented this senate district prior to his successful run for Congress. Also like Deutch’s current state senate district, the 19th District is overwhelmingly located in Palm Beach County.
About Senator Ted Deutch
Senator Ted Deutch is an accomplished legislator who has passed legislation on critical issues that have benefited seniors, public education, national security, and victims of the Holocaust. Deutch, 43, was elected to the Florida State Senate in November 2006. His state senate district is largely located in Palm Beach County and includes some portions of north Broward County.
Deutch received national recognition and testified before Congress for his successful legislative efforts ensuring that the retirement funds of Florida workers to not support Iran’s illicit quest for nuclear weapons or genocide in Darfur. In 2009, Senator Deutch passed legislation that will reduce youth smoking and fund up to $1 billion in critical health care programs in Florida, including $50 million per year in dedicated cancer research funding.
In the Senate, Deutch has also passed legislation protecting children, improving health care insurance for seniors, and through his efforts he helped secure a new senior center in Palm Beach County.
Ted’s commitment to public service earned him the prestigious Harry S Truman Scholarship and his civic and philanthropic work earned him the James and Marjorie Baer Leadership Award from the Jewish Federation of South Palm Beach County. He also has been honored for his efforts in the State Senate, most recently being named National Distinguished Advocacy Award by the American Cancer society, and receiving the Florida Education Association’s Champion of Public Education Award.
A native of Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, Ted is the son of Jean Deutch and the late Bernard Deutch, who earned a Purple Heart serving his country during World War II. A graduate of the University of Michigan and the University of Michigan Law School, Ted is an attorney with the Florida law firm of Broad and Cassel. He currently lives in Boca Raton, Florida with his wife of 18 years, Jill, his 14 year-old twin daughters, Gabrielle and Serena and his 10 year-old son, Cole.
For more information visit www.tedforcongress.com
HUMILITY
Do you call me poor, you slugger,
Won't posterity let me hug her,
And won't she hug me back again?
Isn't my pen
The Sceptre of Eternity, to wave
Over Earth's grave?
Don't call me poor—
I don't feel so, I'm sure,
Tho' I can't hug Miss———
Yet, roly-poly Centuries will hug me,
And say her family were unwise,
To look, with scowling eyes,
On the man, the Almighty has knighted,
And his countryman have so slighted.
He thinks of jumping the ocean waters,
For one of John Bull's bunkum daughters.
Poor—that sticks in my poetic crop—
Why, Fooley, I wouldn't swap
My wealth, for Astor's, or the Barings',
Why, the mere pairings
Of my strapping spirit's fruit,
Will fatten the sows of society, thro' all time;
And when I swell my soul to the super-sublime,
Don't I make the Arch-Angels stare,
And the Devil run
From ramskuttleish fun—
I tell you what—I shan't be forgot
By the sister ages, if I am by this,
My memory will have a soaking kiss.
The evening before Earth dies,
The place, where my body lies,
Will be worn by pretty girls' feet;
There they'll sit, and eat
Apples, in the pleasant summer time,
And read my romantic rhyme,
And vow their Grannies were silly, to
Say, Poo! poo!
To me, and my pepper'd poetry, and not make
A whapping wedding cake,
And coax Miss——— to bury her scorn in its centre,
And with me enter
The slippery state of matrimony,
And be Donald's ony dony,
And let me hug her,
Till her heart feels sqush—
Hush, hush—you'll make her blush,
And you've made me blow,
By calling me poor, you slugger,
Psho! Psho!
I'm sure I don't feel so—
So I should think,
From this hurricane of ink.
McDonald Clarke
July 14, 1836
If there is any advice Col. Kirk Gibbs can give to his successor, it is this: Lead with honor and humility.
As Gibbs, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Los Angeles District’s 61st commander, prepares to relinquish command of the LA District July 19 to Col. Aaron Barta, he offered up some advice and reflected on the past three years as the leader of one of the largest Corps districts in the country.
There are many things Gibbs said he is proud of when it comes to the LA District, but three things stand out: the District being recognized two years in a row as a "Best Place to Work" in the Corps; completing Weed Army Hospital at Fort Irwin, California – the Department of Defense’s only Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design-Platinum, carbon-neutral, net-zero certifiable hospital – on time and within budget; and the one-on-one time he was able to spend with employees in the District.
It is the people Gibbs said he will miss the most – the employees and the District’s close partners across the four-state area.
“I have never focused on relationships like I have here in this District, and I sincerely believe it is part of the District's culture,” he said. “When projects are tough, the close relationships get us through those challenges and ultimately deliver the program.”
During his time with the LA District, Gibbs has overseen a multimillion-dollar program that provides engineering, construction, planning, contracting, real estate, emergency operations, environmental and regulatory services to military, federal, state and local governments across a 226,000-square-mile area of Southern California, Nevada, Arizona and Utah. That also includes leading about 750 military and civilian personnel with a wide array of expertise.
But leading people is nothing new to Gibbs, who has served for more than 24 years as an active-duty Soldier, leading both military and civilian personnel.
“Each person is different, and I have learned that good leaders get to know each person individually and then lead them in a way that brings out the best in that employee,” he said.
Providing priorities and a solid intent on the District’s missions, particularly disaster response operations, helps employees stay focused on what’s really important, he said.
Gibbs will now serve as the chief of staff at the Corps’ headquarters in Washington, D.C. There, he said, he hopes to be an advocate for all of the Corps’ districts nationwide.
“I feel that this District and the great people are responsible for giving me the incredible opportunity of being the Corps’ chief of staff,” he said. “The people have taught me so much, and I will take that with me to make a positive impact on the Corps’ enterprise and help our Districts deliver our programs in civil works, military, Interagency and International Services, real estate and regulatory.”
Gibbs knows how the importance of mentors and having a good support system have played in shaping his career, and he credits his parents with instilling in him respect for others; his wife, Kim, who taught him to endure all challenges, no matter how great, with grace and dignity; and his former chief of staff – Col. Steve Hill – for giving him tough jobs to prepare him for success.
“(Hill) gave me tough jobs that I thought he could have done at the time, but as I look back, the toughest assignments he gave me in that civilian organization at the Corps headquarters prepared me for District command and enabled me to achieve the goal of commanding at the battalion, brigade and District levels,” he said. “I also remember he told me I would be a chief of staff for the Corps one day. He was preparing me for that. I didn't believe him, but that is my next job.”
And, as for additional advice he can share with Barta, Gibbs provided these words of wisdom:
- Be prepared to change leadership style when leading a District of professional civilians. Don't lead them in the same way as Soldiers;
- Engage with people and get around to see them across the District's entire area of operation. Don't sit behind a desk;
- Study hard initially and learn the policies, processes and programs. “You will never be the expert, but you must prepare yourself to make effective decisions as quickly as possible”;
- Always provide a commander's intent and an end state. The civilian workforce appreciates that; and, lastly,
- Lead with honor and humility. “It isn't about you. It is about the District's people and our vital mission.”
As for the future of the LA District, Gibbs said he hopes future leaders continue to change the culture to an organization that is more risk tolerant in streamlining processes and moving projects forward; deliver the Department of Veterans Affairs and Customs and Border Protection programs phenomenally – on time, within budget and to the highest quality; and to remain a "Best Place to Work" in order to retain and recruit talent to the high-cost living area of Southern California.
“I want the District to do what it always does and ‘knock those programs out of the park,’” he said.
On the final night of Navaratri, we celebrate Goddess Siddhidatri, who is an aspect of Maha Lakshmi. She is the ultimate form of the Nava Durgas, and the shashtras say she can only be worshiped after all of the other forms have been venerated.
She is the One who delivers success. Those who worship Her with full devotion are bestowed the eighteen forms of success. According to the Puranas, even Lord Shiva achieved salvation through Her Grace. She grants perfection and the power to act with gratitude and humility, revealing the Love of God.
Find out more:
O God, please teach all brothers to love one another.
That they may have utmost respect for each other.
Never to compete with each other, but to support one another –
In the path of Holy Virtues of Humility, Love and Compassion.
May they learn the essence of Mother’s Love to be worthy Men of God.
Like their mother who cared for them as an infant in her womb for Free,
That brothers become Men by helping each other without any material thing in return.
Like a mother who bore the sacrifice to bring life into Humanity,
That brothers become Men by offering their Life and blessings to care for one another.
Like a mother who showed affection to a poor and helpless infant,
That brothers become Men by being meek, gentle and affectionate to one another.
For what truly makes brothers worthy as honorable Men,
Is the humility to encourage one another to be of Holy Virtues of Humility and Love.
To have the Joy to be happy for the talents and blessings of others.
These that brothers may unite to be peaceful protectors of Humanity –
And defenders of God’s Righteousness on Earth.
For the greatest of all Men are those who are able to overcome their pride and selfishness.
These that Men truly show that they are strong and wise followers of God.
Amen.
shastrix.blogspot.com/2014/10/remembering-mandolin-sriniv...
~~~~~
The House of Love is made completely of music, of verses and songs~Rumi, For the Love of Music
It's been a month since that angel U "Mandolin" Srinivas went back to enthrall others
That day (19.SEP.2014) was a D1C8 and the C8 did bring sad news:
~~~~~
It is not often that it is given to someone to introduce a new instrument into a traditional art such as Carnatic Music and yet be welcomed with open arms. The violin took over a century to become mainstream. Mandolin U Shrinivas was a sensation. His debut in Madras as a cherubic youngster in the 1980s was phenomenal. The first performance was at the Indian Fine Arts Society closely followed by one at the Sri Krishna Gana Sabha where even veterans such as Semmangudi praised him. He became a star and remained one, taking the mandolin to unforeseen heights.
And yet, in his dealings with people he was humility personified. That he should have passed away when the greatest of honours were yet to come his way only shows that we as music lovers are an unfortunate lot. Truly those whom the Gods love die young
~~~~~
Incidentally, his wedding date (19.NOV.1994) was also a D1C8
image: Sify Obit
There was quite some talk about the boy wonder in the early 1980s. However, it was only on May 12, 1990 that i saw him live in a concert in Chennai (then Madras). Our French class had gone on a pique-nique earlier that day, but we got back in time to attend this. Wasn't seated far from the dais, and he made me cry. Don't understand the intricacies of music, but the System 1 inside knows the great stuff and it shows. That's all i am interested in
Our AUCoE batchmate later emailed that he was an ardent devotee of Swami and that he was quite affected by His passing away in 2011. She said that a boy (probably the driver of Srinivas) had come over to a devotee's house for some vibhuti the earlier evening (18.SEP). He also asked her to pray for him as he was very very sick, but wouldn't say what was the illness. Srinivas had visited the same devotee's house in August and he was already looking very ill. Believe he just sat in Swami's room and kept weeping. A while later, Swami showered him with a lot of vibhuti
But the Old Mother pulled the plug on him. His job was over on Mother Earth. Just 45 years, but what he did was enough for a very long time. Both Jack London and Swami Vivekananda lived less than 40 years, but they lived the life of 10 men within those two score
image: A Maestro, His Mandolin and His Modesty
The Radio Sai folks sent a very moving tribute to this unassuming angel: (thanks much to ManojV)
~~~~~
Mandolin Srinivas was a child prodigy who retained his childlike innocence and humility till the very end, and we fondly remember him for that. Music can enchant us all, it heals and elevates. That music can also touch the Lord Himself. But if the same music comes from a heart that is humble and loving, it conquers the Lord. Such was this legend’s music, such was his devotion. He came to Swami when he was a tender teenager, and ever since he was always ready to offer his music at Bhagawan’s feet. We cannot forget those beautiful moments when our ears were filled with his nectarous music and our eyes feasted on Bhagawan’s beautiful form swaying to his music. He would never forget or hesitate to tell those who appreciated him, that all his talent was a gift from his Lord.
We at Radio Sai recollect the times he, without the slightest hesitation, offered his labour of love for our many projects. That never fading smile, that incredible humility, the never ending stream of encouragement and of course that ethereal music of his, will remain for ever and ever etched in all our memories.
- Team Radio Sai
Of this world he never belonged,
A saint in the truest sense,
God loaned him to this world,
For a brief spell,
To dispel as much pain and suffering
With his smile as much as with his music,
This void will remain deep and bare,
This question, an answer none can dare,
God's own Child has merged in Him,
A state of purity completely out-worldly
We who remain behind,
Will never know the heavenly symphony his soul will find.
- Sai Prakash (Team Radio Sai)
~~~~~
After the siesta this past one month, i invariably play his Double Mandolin. Can't seem to forget the image i saw in the ToI on 20th September of a very young Srinivas with an oversize guitar slung across his very small frame
If there is any advice Col. Kirk Gibbs can give to his successor, it is this: Lead with honor and humility.
As Gibbs, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Los Angeles District’s 61st commander, prepares to relinquish command of the LA District July 19 to Col. Aaron Barta, he offered up some advice and reflected on the past three years as the leader of one of the largest Corps districts in the country.
There are many things Gibbs said he is proud of when it comes to the LA District, but three things stand out: the District being recognized two years in a row as a "Best Place to Work" in the Corps; completing Weed Army Hospital at Fort Irwin, California – the Department of Defense’s only Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design-Platinum, carbon-neutral, net-zero certifiable hospital – on time and within budget; and the one-on-one time he was able to spend with employees in the District.
It is the people Gibbs said he will miss the most – the employees and the District’s close partners across the four-state area.
“I have never focused on relationships like I have here in this District, and I sincerely believe it is part of the District's culture,” he said. “When projects are tough, the close relationships get us through those challenges and ultimately deliver the program.”
During his time with the LA District, Gibbs has overseen a multimillion-dollar program that provides engineering, construction, planning, contracting, real estate, emergency operations, environmental and regulatory services to military, federal, state and local governments across a 226,000-square-mile area of Southern California, Nevada, Arizona and Utah. That also includes leading about 750 military and civilian personnel with a wide array of expertise.
But leading people is nothing new to Gibbs, who has served for more than 24 years as an active-duty Soldier, leading both military and civilian personnel.
“Each person is different, and I have learned that good leaders get to know each person individually and then lead them in a way that brings out the best in that employee,” he said.
Providing priorities and a solid intent on the District’s missions, particularly disaster response operations, helps employees stay focused on what’s really important, he said.
Gibbs will now serve as the chief of staff at the Corps’ headquarters in Washington, D.C. There, he said, he hopes to be an advocate for all of the Corps’ districts nationwide.
“I feel that this District and the great people are responsible for giving me the incredible opportunity of being the Corps’ chief of staff,” he said. “The people have taught me so much, and I will take that with me to make a positive impact on the Corps’ enterprise and help our Districts deliver our programs in civil works, military, Interagency and International Services, real estate and regulatory.”
Gibbs knows how the importance of mentors and having a good support system have played in shaping his career, and he credits his parents with instilling in him respect for others; his wife, Kim, who taught him to endure all challenges, no matter how great, with grace and dignity; and his former chief of staff – Col. Steve Hill – for giving him tough jobs to prepare him for success.
“(Hill) gave me tough jobs that I thought he could have done at the time, but as I look back, the toughest assignments he gave me in that civilian organization at the Corps headquarters prepared me for District command and enabled me to achieve the goal of commanding at the battalion, brigade and District levels,” he said. “I also remember he told me I would be a chief of staff for the Corps one day. He was preparing me for that. I didn't believe him, but that is my next job.”
And, as for additional advice he can share with Barta, Gibbs provided these words of wisdom:
- Be prepared to change leadership style when leading a District of professional civilians. Don't lead them in the same way as Soldiers;
- Engage with people and get around to see them across the District's entire area of operation. Don't sit behind a desk;
- Study hard initially and learn the policies, processes and programs. “You will never be the expert, but you must prepare yourself to make effective decisions as quickly as possible”;
- Always provide a commander's intent and an end state. The civilian workforce appreciates that; and, lastly,
- Lead with honor and humility. “It isn't about you. It is about the District's people and our vital mission.”
As for the future of the LA District, Gibbs said he hopes future leaders continue to change the culture to an organization that is more risk tolerant in streamlining processes and moving projects forward; deliver the Department of Veterans Affairs and Customs and Border Protection programs phenomenally – on time, within budget and to the highest quality; and to remain a "Best Place to Work" in order to retain and recruit talent to the high-cost living area of Southern California.
“I want the District to do what it always does and ‘knock those programs out of the park,’” he said.
Dear Friends,
I want to let you know that I have just announced my candidacy for the United States Congress in the seat currently held by my friend, Congressman Robert Wexler, who is accepting a new position at the Center for Middle East Peace.
I make this announcement with great excitement and humility. I am gratified by the incredible encouragement and support that I have already received for this race, and I am extremely excited about the opportunity to be your voice in Congress.
Congressman Wexler served this community tirelessly for nineteen years. I am saddened to see him leave, but I am excited about the opportunity to continue to fight for the issues that he supports and that our community cares so desperately about.
Visit www.TedForCongress.com and Join Today!
This is a time of extraordinary challenges, both at home and abroad. I am running for Congress because I want to work hard every day to help solve the difficult challenges that the citizens of South Florida are currently facing.
I will bring to Congress the same strong work ethic and common sense that I took to Tallahassee. I am proud of the results that I have delivered in the Florida State Senate on education and seniors, health care, and through my initiative to ensure that the retirement funds of Florida’s workers do not support Iran’s illicit quest for nuclear weapons or genocide in Darfur.
Congressman Wexler will be leaving office in January which means his replacement will be filled by a special election that is just months away. This campaign will require an enormous amount of hard work, and if we are going to be successful, we will need to get to work immediately.
I am counting on the support of my friends and supporters who have seen my record of success in Tallahassee and my willingness to work hard to get results. Please join the campaign by going to www.tedforcongress.com, and consider making a financial contribution to my campaign.
Most Congressional campaigns are marathons - this one is a sprint. In order to win, I need lots of volunteers and workers, and I also need to raise over two million dollars in three months. This is no easy task, but with your help, I can do it.
Please Donate Today
You may contribute online today at my website, www.tedforcongress.com, or checks can be made payable to "Deutch for Congress" and sent to 20423 SR7, Suite f-6-383, Boca Raton, FL 33498.
I ask for your support to help me win a race for Congress. Please join my campaign today. I cannot wait to work on your behalf in the United States Congress.
My family and I thank you for your incredible support.
Warmest regards,
Senator Ted Deutch
P.S. Anything you can do to support my efforts is greatly appreciated. Please note that the maximum contribution an individual can make is $4,800 per person, and $9,600 per couple. Corporate contributions are forbidden by federal law.
P.P.S. Please forward this message to your friends and family, and ask them to join our campaign and contribute at www.TedForCongress.com.
Here is some information about me to share with your friends:
Senator Deutch Ideally Situated Senate District Make Him a Formidable Candidate
Senator Deutch’s senate district is ideally situated for a successful congressional campaign for the 19th District seat. Deutch already represents many more voters in the 19th District then any other elected official. In fact, Deutch currently represents almost half of the district’s voters. Wexler also represented this senate district prior to his successful run for Congress. Also like Deutch’s current state senate district, the 19th District is overwhelmingly located in Palm Beach County.
About Senator Ted Deutch
Senator Ted Deutch is an accomplished legislator who has passed legislation on critical issues that have benefited seniors, public education, national security, and victims of the Holocaust. Deutch, 43, was elected to the Florida State Senate in November 2006. His state senate district is largely located in Palm Beach County and includes some portions of north Broward County.
Deutch received national recognition and testified before Congress for his successful legislative efforts ensuring that the retirement funds of Florida workers to not support Iran’s illicit quest for nuclear weapons or genocide in Darfur. In 2009, Senator Deutch passed legislation that will reduce youth smoking and fund up to $1 billion in critical health care programs in Florida, including $50 million per year in dedicated cancer research funding.
In the Senate, Deutch has also passed legislation protecting children, improving health care insurance for seniors, and through his efforts he helped secure a new senior center in Palm Beach County.
Ted’s commitment to public service earned him the prestigious Harry S Truman Scholarship and his civic and philanthropic work earned him the James and Marjorie Baer Leadership Award from the Jewish Federation of South Palm Beach County. He also has been honored for his efforts in the State Senate, most recently being named National Distinguished Advocacy Award by the American Cancer society, and receiving the Florida Education Association’s Champion of Public Education Award.
A native of Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, Ted is the son of Jean Deutch and the late Bernard Deutch, who earned a Purple Heart serving his country during World War II. A graduate of the University of Michigan and the University of Michigan Law School, Ted is an attorney with the Florida law firm of Broad and Cassel. He currently lives in Boca Raton, Florida with his wife of 18 years, Jill, his 14 year-old twin daughters, Gabrielle and Serena and his 10 year-old son, Cole.
For more information visit www.tedforcongress.com
The questions that this painting provokes for me is: Why is this woman with the crown performing fellatio on this lucky gentleman? and What is the relationship between this man and woman? You may assume that as the artist, I know these answers in advance, but sadly, I don't. Once the painting is finished, I am only a witness. A witness to my own subconscious.
Ok, so seeing how these paintings, do in some way represent what is in my subconscious, I think that maybe, in a way, I do kind of know what is going on, but then there is the fear of admitting it.
When I look at this, the man is clearly the one in the subservient position. The woman has the crown, the lion and the weapon. Not too mention, although fellatio is a very pleasurable position for a man, it is also a very vulnerable position. The most sensitive part of his body is surrounded by teeth! Hence, the man is totally at her mercy!
The woman in this painting (who is also a figment of my subconsious!) is obviously very powerful and courageous (she has just killed a lion). The man seems to give her the emotional strength to fuel this power. She is showing gratitude for his humility, assurance and acceptance of her.
Please, do not take this, or any of my interpretations as gospet! Like I said, I am simply a spectator! The images flow through me -- not the meaning behind the images!!
The first of my "Chalk It Up To Experience" cards. Here, C.S.Lewis adds a piercing insight on "Humility" - which is "not thinking less of yourself but thinking of yourself less."
Nothing says “I love you” like red roses. Red symbolizes love, beauty, courage, respect, romantic love, and even congratulations. While many send red roses on Valentine's Day, surprise your Valentine this year with white roses that symbolize true love, purity, innocence, reverence, humility, youthfulness, and charm.
LARGE view and tags read; enjoy a great weekend _____
foto cropped for clarity and emphasis_______
Pope: Augustine Is Model of Humility and Says His Conversion Lasted Until He Died
VATICAN CITY, FEB. 26, 2008 (Zenit.org).- In his final reflection on St. Augustine, Benedict XVI spoke of the saint's interior conversion, calling it "one of the greatest" in Christian history.
The Pope affirmed this today during the general audience given in Paul VI Hall. He recalled how his trip last year to pay homage to the mortal remains of Augustine was meant to "demonstrate the admiration and reverence of the entire Catholic Church toward St. Augustine, and my own personal devotion and recognition of a figure with whom I feel I have close ties to due to the part he has played in my theological life, in my life as a priest and a pastor."
Recalling Augustine's own retelling of his conversion in the "Confessions," the Holy Father said that the process is best "described as a journey that remains a true example for each one of us." It was a journey that "continued with humility until the end of his life."
"We can state that all the stages of his life -- and we can easily distinguish three phases -- together make up a single long conversion," the Pontiff explained.
Truth seeking
Benedict XVI characterized the first phase as a "gradual approach to Christianity," since Augustine was a "passionate seeker of the truth."
He explained: "Philosophy, and especially Platonic philosophy, led him closer to Christ by revealing to him the existence of the Logos, or creative reason. The books of the philosophers showed him the existence of 'reason' from which the whole world is derived, but did not tell him how to reach this Logos, which seemed so inaccessible.
"It was only through reading the letters of St. Paul, in the faith of the Catholic Church, that he came to a fuller understanding. […] His eyes fell on the passage of the Letter to the Romans, in which the apostle urges the abandonment of the pleasures of the flesh in favor of Christ. He understood that those words were specifically meant for him. They came from God, through the Apostle, and showed him what he had to do in that moment."
Augustine thus began to seek God, the Pope explained, "the great and inaccessible."
"His faith in Christ made him understand that God, seemingly so distant, was in truth not distant at all. In fact he has come near us, becoming one of us," the Holy Father said. "In this sense his faith in Christ allowed Augustine to accomplish his long search for truth. Only a God who made himself 'touchable,' one of us, was a God to whom one could pray, for whom and with whom one could live."
Mercy
Benedict XVI said a last step, or "third conversion" in the journey, "led [Augustine] to ask God for forgiveness every day of his life."
The Pope explained: "At first he thought that once christened, in a life in communion with Christ, in the sacraments, and in the celebration of the Eucharist, he would attain a life as proposed in the Sermon on the Mount, which is one of perfection given through baptism and confirmed in the Eucharist.
"In the latter period of his life he understood that what he had said in his first homilies on the Sermon on the Mount -- that we as Christians permanently live this ideal life -- was a mistake. Only Christ himself realizes truly and completely the Sermon on the Mount. We always need to be cleansed by Christ, who washes our feet, and be renewed by him.
"We need a permanent conversion. Up to the end we need to demonstrate a humility that acknowledges that we are sinners on a journey, until the Lord gives us his hand and leads us to eternal life. It is with this attitude of humility that Augustine lived out his final days until his death."
A model
The Holy Father said that Augustine, once "converted to Christ, who is truth and love," became a model for every human being, "for all of us in search of God."
"Today, as then," the Pontiff said, "mankind needs to know and to live this fundamental reality: God is love and meeting him is the only answer to the fears of the human heart.
"In a beautiful text St. Augustine defines prayer as an expression of desire, and affirms that God answers by moving our hearts closer to him. For our part we should purify our desires and our hopes in order to receive God's gentleness."
"In fact," the Holy Father concluded, "this alone -- opening ourselves up to others -- can save us."
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EXPLORE # 384 on Saturday, March 15, 2008; & # 438 on 03-16-2008
Dear Friends,
I want to let you know that I have just announced my candidacy for the United States Congress in the seat currently held by my friend, Congressman Robert Wexler, who is accepting a new position at the Center for Middle East Peace.
I make this announcement with great excitement and humility. I am gratified by the incredible encouragement and support that I have already received for this race, and I am extremely excited about the opportunity to be your voice in Congress.
Congressman Wexler served this community tirelessly for nineteen years. I am saddened to see him leave, but I am excited about the opportunity to continue to fight for the issues that he supports and that our community cares so desperately about.
Visit www.TedForCongress.com and Join Today!
This is a time of extraordinary challenges, both at home and abroad. I am running for Congress because I want to work hard every day to help solve the difficult challenges that the citizens of South Florida are currently facing.
I will bring to Congress the same strong work ethic and common sense that I took to Tallahassee. I am proud of the results that I have delivered in the Florida State Senate on education and seniors, health care, and through my initiative to ensure that the retirement funds of Florida’s workers do not support Iran’s illicit quest for nuclear weapons or genocide in Darfur.
Congressman Wexler will be leaving office in January which means his replacement will be filled by a special election that is just months away. This campaign will require an enormous amount of hard work, and if we are going to be successful, we will need to get to work immediately.
I am counting on the support of my friends and supporters who have seen my record of success in Tallahassee and my willingness to work hard to get results. Please join the campaign by going to www.tedforcongress.com, and consider making a financial contribution to my campaign.
Most Congressional campaigns are marathons - this one is a sprint. In order to win, I need lots of volunteers and workers, and I also need to raise over two million dollars in three months. This is no easy task, but with your help, I can do it.
Please Donate Today
You may contribute online today at my website, www.tedforcongress.com, or checks can be made payable to "Deutch for Congress" and sent to 20423 SR7, Suite f-6-383, Boca Raton, FL 33498.
I ask for your support to help me win a race for Congress. Please join my campaign today. I cannot wait to work on your behalf in the United States Congress.
My family and I thank you for your incredible support.
Warmest regards,
Senator Ted Deutch
P.S. Anything you can do to support my efforts is greatly appreciated. Please note that the maximum contribution an individual can make is $4,800 per person, and $9,600 per couple. Corporate contributions are forbidden by federal law.
P.P.S. Please forward this message to your friends and family, and ask them to join our campaign and contribute at www.TedForCongress.com.
Here is some information about me to share with your friends:
Senator Deutch Ideally Situated Senate District Make Him a Formidable Candidate
Senator Deutch’s senate district is ideally situated for a successful congressional campaign for the 19th District seat. Deutch already represents many more voters in the 19th District then any other elected official. In fact, Deutch currently represents almost half of the district’s voters. Wexler also represented this senate district prior to his successful run for Congress. Also like Deutch’s current state senate district, the 19th District is overwhelmingly located in Palm Beach County.
About Senator Ted Deutch
Senator Ted Deutch is an accomplished legislator who has passed legislation on critical issues that have benefited seniors, public education, national security, and victims of the Holocaust. Deutch, 43, was elected to the Florida State Senate in November 2006. His state senate district is largely located in Palm Beach County and includes some portions of north Broward County.
Deutch received national recognition and testified before Congress for his successful legislative efforts ensuring that the retirement funds of Florida workers to not support Iran’s illicit quest for nuclear weapons or genocide in Darfur. In 2009, Senator Deutch passed legislation that will reduce youth smoking and fund up to $1 billion in critical health care programs in Florida, including $50 million per year in dedicated cancer research funding.
In the Senate, Deutch has also passed legislation protecting children, improving health care insurance for seniors, and through his efforts he helped secure a new senior center in Palm Beach County.
Ted’s commitment to public service earned him the prestigious Harry S Truman Scholarship and his civic and philanthropic work earned him the James and Marjorie Baer Leadership Award from the Jewish Federation of South Palm Beach County. He also has been honored for his efforts in the State Senate, most recently being named National Distinguished Advocacy Award by the American Cancer society, and receiving the Florida Education Association’s Champion of Public Education Award.
A native of Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, Ted is the son of Jean Deutch and the late Bernard Deutch, who earned a Purple Heart serving his country during World War II. A graduate of the University of Michigan and the University of Michigan Law School, Ted is an attorney with the Florida law firm of Broad and Cassel. He currently lives in Boca Raton, Florida with his wife of 18 years, Jill, his 14 year-old twin daughters, Gabrielle and Serena and his 10 year-old son, Cole.
For more information visit www.tedforcongress.com
"Humility" by sculpture Kurt Lehmann, in Hannover, Germany.
This can be found in The Aegidienkirche, the remains of a 14th century church in Hannover, Germany. Built in 1347, it was hit by an allied bomb in 1943 during World War 2. The walls and steeple are all that remain. It was never rebuilt, but left as it was and is now a memorial to victims of war and violence.
In the passageway to the left can be seen the "Peace Bell" bestowed upon Hannover by her sister city Hiroshima in 1985.
The Cathedral of Mary of the Assumption in Saginaw was packed with faithful from across the diocese who came to witness the ordination of Father Adam Maher on June 1.
The Rite of Ordination includes the candidate promising to "discharge the office of priesthood with humility and love, to hold fast to the mystery of faith, to proclaim this faith in word and deed, to embrace the celibate state and to pray for the Church and the whole world," as well as obedience to the bishop and his successors. The candidate then lies prostrate as the congregation prays the Litany of Supplication. Following the prayer, Bishop Cistone and those priests present silently impose their hands upon the candidate. The candidate is then dressed in priestly vestments, a stole and chasuble. He then kneels before the bishop, who anoints his hands with Sacred Chrism and hands over the bread and wine.
A Port Sanilac native, Father Adam completed his seminarian education at Sacred Heart Major Seminary in Detroit. This July, he will become the Parochial Administrator of Our Lady Consolata Parish, which serves Cass City, Sebewaing, Gagetown and Wilmot.
Regarding his call to the priesthood, Father Adam credits the prayers of so many people to whom he says, "My vocation is the fruit of your prayers. I'm excited to lay my life down for Jesus and for all of you. Your prayers have been preparing me for this. I feel your prayers."
September 22 is the day grades 4 to 10 celebrate Science and Math Week with a fun academic contest to bring out their competitive spirit and motivate them to learn more about these two major subjects. The event is a quiz bee type game that tests the student’s general knowledge of science and math. Students are formed into groups of four (for high school) and five (for grade school) to emphasize cooperation and teamwork
Photo credits to Michelle Ann Villacorta, China Lorenzo, and Louisiana Sollestre
Grades 4 to 6 Winners
1st Place
TEAM GRAHAM BELL (Blue Shrit)
1. Stephen Matthew G. Ibañez (Grade 4 Charity)
2. Aldrin O. Paltao (Grade 5 Honesty)
3. Samantha Ashley A. San Juan (Grade 5 Happiness)
4. Chrizelle Anne R. Gavino (Grade 6 Humility)
5. John Patrick M. Esmeria (Grade 6 Generosity)
2nd Place
TEAM MENDEL (Black Shirt)
1. Lhance Ivan B. Lachica (Grade 4 Charity)
2. Christine Anne R. Gavino (Grade 5 Happiness)
3. Eulian Joshua F. Del Rosario (Grade 5 Honesty)
4. Nigel Louis M. Galang (Grade 6 Humility)
5. Donita Mae F Manlunas (Grade 6 Generosity)
3rd Place
TEAM MAXWELL (Yellow shirt)
1. Mila Angelica R. Terrado (Grade 4 Charity)
2. Trisha Gail M. Esmeria (Grade 5 Happiness)
3. Jarro Uriel M. Colonzo (Grade 6 Honesty)
4. Iris Francheska L. Bautista (Grade 6 Humility)
5. Arabella R. Saculo (Grade 6 Generosity)
High School Winners
1st Place
TEAM THOMPSON
1. Julienne Allyah Legutan (Grade 8 Aristotle)
2. Kenneth Pedigan (Grade 9 Newton)
3. Roselle Estrada (Grade Fourth Year Einstein)
4. Venedict Doroteo (Grade 7 Galileo)
2nd Place
TEAM DALTON
1. Jason Tormon (Fourth Year Einstein)
2. Danica Janelle Dizon (Grade 8 Aristotle)
3. Sophia Chua (Grade 9 Newton)
4. Jarren Seltiel Calonzo (Grade 7 Galileo)
3rd Place
TEAM CHADWICK
1. Louisiana Sollestre (Fourth Year Einstein)
2. Roma Reign Molina (Grade 8 Aristotle)
3. Neithan Abreu (Grade 9 Newton)
4. Don Luis Diaz (Grade 7 Galileo)
Congratulations to all the winners!
Photos by Miller Taylor.
April 2015 CreativeMornings/Raleigh event (global theme: Humility) with guest speakers Mike and Megan Gilger, husband and wife creative team behind Wild Measure studio and The Fresh Exchange blog.
In 2009, Megan and Mike began their lifestyle and design blog, The Fresh Exchange Today, the blog reaches over a half million people everyday, inspiring creators of all kinds to pursue their dreams and live a beautiful and intentional life. The creative couple works together to create original content through photo, video, editorial writing, aesthetic curation, and social media. With a simple, natural, and organic nature to their content, Megan and Mike have had the opportunity to work with brands such as Smartwater, Bing, Gap, Madewell, Bota Box, Levi’s, Feedly, Kinfolk Magazine, Over, Warby Parker, Tuft & Needle, Shinola, and many others.
Special thanks to our host CAM Raleigh and sponsors CompostNow, Counter Culture Coffee, who generously provided us with complimentary coffee, Yellow Dog Bread Company, who provided the tasty breakfast snacks, and Raleigh Raw , who provided the healthy, cold-pressed juice.
If there is any advice Col. Kirk Gibbs can give to his successor, it is this: Lead with honor and humility.
As Gibbs, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Los Angeles District’s 61st commander, prepares to relinquish command of the LA District July 19 to Col. Aaron Barta, he offered up some advice and reflected on the past three years as the leader of one of the largest Corps districts in the country.
There are many things Gibbs said he is proud of when it comes to the LA District, but three things stand out: the District being recognized two years in a row as a "Best Place to Work" in the Corps; completing Weed Army Hospital at Fort Irwin, California – the Department of Defense’s only Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design-Platinum, carbon-neutral, net-zero certifiable hospital – on time and within budget; and the one-on-one time he was able to spend with employees in the District.
It is the people Gibbs said he will miss the most – the employees and the District’s close partners across the four-state area.
“I have never focused on relationships like I have here in this District, and I sincerely believe it is part of the District's culture,” he said. “When projects are tough, the close relationships get us through those challenges and ultimately deliver the program.”
During his time with the LA District, Gibbs has overseen a multimillion-dollar program that provides engineering, construction, planning, contracting, real estate, emergency operations, environmental and regulatory services to military, federal, state and local governments across a 226,000-square-mile area of Southern California, Nevada, Arizona and Utah. That also includes leading about 750 military and civilian personnel with a wide array of expertise.
But leading people is nothing new to Gibbs, who has served for more than 24 years as an active-duty Soldier, leading both military and civilian personnel.
“Each person is different, and I have learned that good leaders get to know each person individually and then lead them in a way that brings out the best in that employee,” he said.
Providing priorities and a solid intent on the District’s missions, particularly disaster response operations, helps employees stay focused on what’s really important, he said.
Gibbs will now serve as the chief of staff at the Corps’ headquarters in Washington, D.C. There, he said, he hopes to be an advocate for all of the Corps’ districts nationwide.
“I feel that this District and the great people are responsible for giving me the incredible opportunity of being the Corps’ chief of staff,” he said. “The people have taught me so much, and I will take that with me to make a positive impact on the Corps’ enterprise and help our Districts deliver our programs in civil works, military, Interagency and International Services, real estate and regulatory.”
Gibbs knows how the importance of mentors and having a good support system have played in shaping his career, and he credits his parents with instilling in him respect for others; his wife, Kim, who taught him to endure all challenges, no matter how great, with grace and dignity; and his former chief of staff – Col. Steve Hill – for giving him tough jobs to prepare him for success.
“(Hill) gave me tough jobs that I thought he could have done at the time, but as I look back, the toughest assignments he gave me in that civilian organization at the Corps headquarters prepared me for District command and enabled me to achieve the goal of commanding at the battalion, brigade and District levels,” he said. “I also remember he told me I would be a chief of staff for the Corps one day. He was preparing me for that. I didn't believe him, but that is my next job.”
And, as for additional advice he can share with Barta, Gibbs provided these words of wisdom:
- Be prepared to change leadership style when leading a District of professional civilians. Don't lead them in the same way as Soldiers;
- Engage with people and get around to see them across the District's entire area of operation. Don't sit behind a desk;
- Study hard initially and learn the policies, processes and programs. “You will never be the expert, but you must prepare yourself to make effective decisions as quickly as possible”;
- Always provide a commander's intent and an end state. The civilian workforce appreciates that; and, lastly,
- Lead with honor and humility. “It isn't about you. It is about the District's people and our vital mission.”
As for the future of the LA District, Gibbs said he hopes future leaders continue to change the culture to an organization that is more risk tolerant in streamlining processes and moving projects forward; deliver the Department of Veterans Affairs and Customs and Border Protection programs phenomenally – on time, within budget and to the highest quality; and to remain a "Best Place to Work" in order to retain and recruit talent to the high-cost living area of Southern California.
“I want the District to do what it always does and ‘knock those programs out of the park,’” he said.
Window in the north aisle by Christopher Whall, 1905.
St Michael & All Angels at Ledbury is not only one of Herefordshire's grandest parish churches but also one of its most rewarding. There is much to enjoy in this ancient building from its unusual architectural features to its interesting monuments and top quality glass.
The church is set back from the town's main street and accessed via a narrow cobbled alleyway, the view of its soaring spire beckoning the visitor onward. Upon arriving at the churchyard gates this massive building reveals itself to be full of surprises, most noticeably the tower and spire being detached from the main building and standing a short distance to the north of a beautifully detailed chapel on the north side (formerly dedicated to St Katherine) whose large windows are enriched with ballflower ornament. To the right the mass of the three-gabled west front greets the visitor, centred around the original Norman west doorway with its carved capitals.
Much of the Norman building still remains but aside from the west door the building has been modified and extended in the following centuries to the point that most of the exterior now appears to be of 13th or 14th century date. The detached tower dates back to the 13th century in its lower stages, but the topmost belfry stage and the tapering spire above are an 18th century addition by architect Nathaniel Wilkinson of Worcester. The spire is nonetheless remarkable for its sheer height, and visitors can often ascend the tower to its base during the summer months.
Inside the church initially has a vast, almost barn-like feel owing to the great space and somewhat low level of light, particularly as the eye is drawn towards the chancel which almost disappears into the gloom at first sight. The church is lit by a series of tall windows but the light they admit is more limited by the extensive collection of stained glass (though fortunately most of this is exceptionally good). The chancel is the oldest part, retaining its Norman arcades with intriguing porthole-like oculi above that would have been originally glazed as a clerestorey before the aisles were enlarged. On the north side (almost acting as a transept) is the former chapel with its large Decorated windows that is now separated by a glazed screen and is referred to presently as the chapter house. It contains some old fragments of glass and a fine effigy of a 13th century priest.
Throughout the church there are tombs and monuments of interest (not all well lit so at times the eye needs to adjust to the darkness) from the medieval period to the 19th century. Most of the windows on the south side are filled with rich late Victorian glass by Kempe, whilst in the north side is a more varied display with good examples of Pre Raphaelite, Arts & Crafts and more modern work by Burne Jones, Christopher Whall and John K.Clark respectively, in my opinion the most outstanding windows in the church.
Ledbury church is normally kept open and welcoming for visitors to this popular, tourist-friendly market town. It is well worth a visit, a well above average church!