'Too beautiful'? Claim highlights science of beauty

While the Internet is abuzz declaring "she's hot" or "she's not" regarding Samantha Brick, who claims that she is cursed because she's "too beautiful," scientists may have some hard-and-fast rules about true beauty.

Brick, a freelance writer from France, made her claim in an article in the Daily Mail titled "There Are Downsides to Looking This Pretty: Why Women Hate Me for Being Beautiful." In the article, Brick claimed that pretty women, such as herself, get treated badly by other, less pretty women who often get jealous.

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Her comments set off a firestorm of hate mail, insulting comments and nasty Twitter messages directed at the author, mostly surrounding her claim of being beautiful. While a scientist is unlikely to come forward and rate Brick's beauty, research into attractiveness suggests attraction boils down to how symmetrical one's face is.

Related story: Samantha Brick says she's 'not overconfident'

Evolutionary biologist Randy Thornhill of the University of New Mexico has been studying symmetry for two decades by using scans to digitize faces and bodies. He's found that both men and women rated members of the opposite sex with-symmetrical faces and bodies as more attractive and in better health than their less symmetrical counterparts. The differences can be measured by just a few percentage points ? perceivable, though not necessarily noticeable.

Good symmetry shows that an individual has the genetic goods to survive development, is healthy, and is a good and fertile choice for mating, Thornhill told LiveScience in 2006: "It makes sense to use symmetry variation in mate choice," he said. "If you choose a perfectly symmetrical partner and reproduce with them, your offspring will have a better chance of being symmetric," because you both have good, symmetrical genes.

A study by Thornhill, published in 1995 in the journal Animal Behavior, even found that women have more orgasms during sex with men who had more symmetrical faces and bodies, regardless of their level of romantic attachment or the guys' sexual experience.

Researchers at Tel Aviv University have even created a "beauty machine" that can transform a face into the more attractive version of someone.

The machine not only shows the human ideal of a perfectly beautiful face, but it also can help plastic surgeons create that vision. Beauty "is not simply in the eye of the beholder," researcher Daniel Cohen-Or told LiveScience in 2008. "Beauty can be quantified by mathematical measurements and ratios. It can be defined as average distances between features, which a majority of people agree are the most beautiful."

To design the beauty machine, Cohen-Or had 68 Israeli and Germans rank the beauty of 93 different faces. The scores were correlated to measurements of facial features and used to create an algorithm of "desirable elements of attractiveness," which manipulate an image and spit out a better, prettier version.

Related story: Woman gripes about being gorgeous, breaks Internet (almost)

Another study, published in the International Journal of Primatology in 2009, indicates that color can make all the difference in facial attractiveness. When it comes to facial skin color among Caucasians, a light, yellowish complexion looks the healthiest, they found. The skin color could indicate a healthy diet of fruits and vegetables, whose pigments are known to change the skin's hue, researchers suggest.

Does Brick fit the bill? That you'll have to judge for yourself.

You can follow LiveScience staff writer Jennifer Welsh on Twitter, on Google+or on Facebook. Follow LiveScience for the latest in science news and discoveries on Twitterand on Facebook.

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Free Pets to Good Home ? Blog Archive ? When You've Got ...

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What Bankruptcy Really Means for Your Financial Future

Trade Off theory diagramImage via WikipediaAll of this negative publicity about bankruptcy and mortgages, and you're probably thinking to yourself, "There's no way I'm ever going to declare bankruptcy!" Whilst this is a great attitude to have, it is important to know that much of what you know about bankruptcy and mortgages is wrong. This comes as great news to those of you who have or currently are bankrupt, so spend some time checking out .
The Myths
Before taking a look at the reality of bankruptcy with relation to your financial future, it's good to check out the myths that have been circulating for many years, compliments of mainstream lenders, most mortgage brokers and the media. Here's just a few of the myths:
oIf people end up bankrupt, it's their own fault;
oMost people who are or have been bankrupt had no other choice other than to go bankrupt - they will always be bad with money;
oPeople who have or are bankrupt will never obtain finance or a mortgage; and
oIf you are or have been bankrupt, forget about ever achieving a financially secure future.
Sure, bankruptcy isn't a great thing to have to experience. After all, a bankruptcy will always be on your credit file, so it can be a painful reminder of a very difficult time in your life. This said however, each of the four points listed above are myths. Here's why:
oSure, sometimes we make mistakes with money, but we aren't really educated on how to handle money. In our school systems good money management it isn't taught and our financial institutions are constantly bombarding us with marketing material, encouraging us to spend up big - even if we don't have the money. It's a buy now, pay later mentality and the truth is it's a conspiracy! The big financial institutions vs the financially un-educated masses, and most of the time the big guys win. It's not your fault if you go bankrupt, because so many external factors will come into play.
oMost people who declare bankruptcy do so because they have been given poor or incorrect advice. Many people believe that bankruptcy is their only option, when it more than likely is not. If people speak to reputable bad credit experts, other not-so-drastic options will be presented to them, which will help them out of debt.
oPeople who are or have been bankrupt can get finance - they can even get a home loan. Bad credit mortgage experts help people with bad credit secure home loans - with competitive rates. The key is to consult with a bad credit expert who is reputable and experienced in this field. Talk to a specialist today! Don't be fooled by the advertising and myths that say interest rates on high risk loans are through the roof, because it's just not true.
oEven if you have or are bankrupt, you can still achieve a financially secure future. If you get the right advice from a reputable bad credit mortgage specialist, you can follow their expert directions and look forward to a financially secure future.
Bankruptcy isn't the End!
If you are or have been bankrupt, it isn't the end! In fact, far from it! Even a traumatic event like bankruptcy can be seen as an opportunity. This is how it should always be viewed. It is an opportunity to work with a financial expert who can provide you with the guidance you need to enjoy a financially independent future. To get back on the path to a good financial standing, seek out a reputable specialist today!
www.bad-credit-loan-expert.com
? Julian Thornton, Little Hinge Publishing, 2006, Designer Mortgage Solutions Pty Ltd, 2006.
Julian Thornton is a Melbourne, Australia-based mortgage and debt analyst specialist. Julian specializes in the field of bad credit mortgages and personal money management coaching. Julian can help literally anybody into their own home and prepare them for financial success. If you need financial relief and desire control of you personal finances then Julian can help you. He is the author of

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Breaking down the?top QBs

What a difference a year makes.

Last draft season, many observers were convinced that Andrew Luck's return to college deprived the 2011 draft class of its only elite quarterback prospect. Fast forward one Cam Newton Rookie of the Year award and 12 months later, and a large chunk of informed analysts believe Luck should be challenged for the top quarterback ranking by the 2011 Heisman Trophy winner.

The departure from consensus opinion does not stop there, as some feel the only two quarterbacks worth first-round selections will be drafted with the first two overall picks. Opinions are all across the board on Texas A&M?s Ryan Tannehill and Oklahoma State?s Brandon Weeden. Sure, fewer teams need quarterbacks compared to last offseason, but it is not farfetched to predict that four signal callers will be drafted on day one. With the Eagles, Chiefs, and other seemingly quarterback-secure teams entering the rookie discussion in an annually unpredictable draft, anything can happen.

As rookie quarterbacks continue to earn playing time sooner each year, it is probable that at least four of the players broken down here will start a game in 2012.

1. Andrew Luck, Stanford

Height/Weight: 6'4/234
College Experience: Fourth-year junior
40 Time: 4.67
Comparison: Rich Gannon
2011 Stats: 288-of-404 (71.3%) for 3,517 yds (8.71 YPA), 37 TD/10 INT; 3.2 YPC, 2 TD
Draft Prediction: Colts, No. 1 overall

Positives: Luck has fantastic pocket movement, consistently stepping up when facing outside pressure or flowing laterally against interior blitzes. He handles free rushers like a pro by immediately escaping the pocket or delivering a quick throw. One of the few stud QB prospects that is already comfortable from center, Luck's drop steps are very mature and coordinated with proper footwork. It is often overlooked, but Luck consistently delivers crisp passes with sound placement after working through progressions, even in limited space to operate. He is comfortable with anticipation routes after graduating from Stanford's traditional pro-style offense, consistently delivering passes in a catchable area before the receiver's head is turned. Luck protects the ball very well when moving in confined areas, covering it with both hands and dipping his shoulder to evade contact. His motion is incredibly smooth, with no hitches and a top-to-bottom release. Rather than sticking only to open options, Luck gives his receivers the benefit of the doubt if they have a step on the defender in close coverage or in mismatch situations. He isn't going to kill you on the run, but Luck uses his athleticism effectively, climbing the pocket while keeping his eyes downfield or taking the yards the defense gives him. He consistently tests defenses vertically, taking calculated shots in the deep sections of the field.

Negatives: It has been widely discussed that Luck lacks elite arm strength, and while that may or may not be the case, he certainly could follow through more often since some passes are shortarmed. He is a bit cautious in terms of velocity on short to intermediate routes, choosing to take off a few clicks to guide a pass to its target rather than firing a bullet. Luck could also improve his downfield trajectory, as some passes have too much arch. He struggles the most when a quick-hitting play is covered, whether it be a screen pass or an initial target after a three-step drop. Luck tends to panic more than usual in these situations, forcing a throw or losing coordination in his lower body.

Outlook: Luck is not a perfect prospect, but I firmly believe he is in a class of his own in this year's signal-calling crop. In fact, I would put Luck in the "rare" category of draft prospects, a title recently held by only Calvin Johnson and Ndamukong Suh. Luck truly is beyond his years in terms of development by having more play-calling responsibility than numerous starting quarterbacks in the NFL -- with outstanding results. Luck might make it look too easy, and even boring at times with a smooth throwing motion and well-placed throws, but those skills will translate into consistency. Luck may not possess of the upside of Cam Newton or Robert Griffin III in terms of maximizing athletic potential and using it at the quarterback position. However, there is no doubt Luck's game seamlessly translates to NFL competition. Indianapolis will be a tough year-one landing spot, but Luck will instantly become the best player on the Colts' offense.

2. Robert Griffin III, Baylor

Height/Weight: 6'2/223
College Experience: Fourth-year junior
40 Time: 4.41
Comparison: Michael Vick
2011 Stats: 291-of-402 (72.4%) for 4,293 yds (10.7 YPA), 37 TD/6 INT; 3.9 YPC, 10 TD
Draft Prediction: Redskins, No. 2 overall

Positives: The Heisman winner dominated the Big 12 while showing dramatic improvement from the 2010-2011 season. Griffin is most lethal outside the pocket, keeping his eyes up to stretch defenses laterally then unleashing outstanding vertical bucket throws that always seem to be placed perfectly on the receiver's outside shoulder. Despite rare athleticism, Griffin is a passer first with high intelligence and a great grasp of the game, which has previously been a downfall for dual-threat quarterbacks. Griffin is still a dangerous runner and unafraid of getting skinny between the tackles. He always seems to get the ball out quickly, allowing the receiver to run in open space after the catch. Griffin is very active in the pocket after an initial read, effectively moving zones and spies at the second level to open up passing lanes. In the majority of times he faces edge pressure, Griffin is unafraid of stepping up into the pocket despite inevitable contact. This kind of poise is frequently overlooked, but Griffin is prepared to take a crushing hit if it means buying an extra second for his receiver to separate. The fast-hitting spread offense is common in college, but no one ran it better than Griffin. His timing was crisp despite a furious pace and many drives ended in the endzone after only five or six snaps because of Griffin's willingness to challenge defenses vertically.

Negatives: Despite committing himself as a pass-first quarterback, I still would not call Griffin a true pocket-style thrower. At least not yet. Griffin rarely started from center and it shows in his drops off the snap. His initial steps are ideal but when the first read is covered, the athlete in Griffin often takes over. His steps begin to lack purpose and coordination, with choppy footwork or a single long stride to the next read. These inconsistent movements also materialize occasionally when the pocket closes around him, with Griffin dropping his eye level to check out the pass rush, flashing discomfort in tight spaces. With that said, Griffin has really improved the way he resets after those chaotic instances, though he could do better in feeling backside pressure. I would stop short of saying Griffin has pinpoint accuracy on intermediate routes, but he consistently places passes in a receiver's catch radius, only occasionally missing high. It's nitpicking, but I am not a huge fan of how Griffin holds the ball before his throwing motion; it is very Troy Smith-esque with bowed arms.

Outlook: I had more concern about Griffin's future before the Redskins traded up. A team should craft its offensive style to fit the quarterback's skills, but I would have questioned Griffin's future if forced to solely work in the pocket. There is no doubt he works well on the move and makes exceptional throws, but it is tough to overlook the moments when his footwork gets chaotic -- focusing more on the closing pocket than downfield targets. Griffin's fit in D.C. could not be better. His sometimes-erratic movements may become an advantage under the Shanahans, who prefer mobile quarterbacks in order to stretch the defense. It is going to be a fun ride watching a player with Griffin's mix of athleticism and mental capacity develop in an offense that fits his talents like a glove.

3. Ryan Tannehill, Texas A&M

Height/Weight: 6'4/221
College Experience: Fifth-year senior
40 Time: 4.62
Comparison: Ben Roethlisberger
2011 Stats: 327-of-521 (62.3%) for 3,744 yds (7.19 YPA), 29 TD/15 INT; 5.3 YPC, 4 TD
Draft Prediction: Dolphins, No. 8 overall

Positives: Behind only Luck, Tannehill possesses the best poise and pocket movement in this year's class. Tannehill stands calmly between the tackles, evading pass rushers like a seasoned veteran. The Texas A&M offense showcases skills that project into an NFL offense, requiring the quarterback to drop from center and read route progressions that include anticipation throws. Tannehill did this remarkably well. No receiver group in the country let its quarterback down more last year than Tannehill's, consistently dropping routine catches while losing the majority of 50/50 balls. Tannehill unabashedly put them in playmaking situations, but was rarely rewarded. Faith in his surroundings and short-term memory will aid Tannehill in the pros. He flashes multiple anticipation throws in every game and shines on intermediate comeback routes along the sideline. It all starts with Tannehill's compact motion, quick release, and comfort in a closing pocket. Don't sleep on his running ability, but the former quarterback-to-receiver-to-quarterback convert is without a doubt a pocket passer by nature.

Negatives: Tannehill made only 19 quarterback starts after amassing 112 receptions and 1,596 receiving yards at receiver. Whether his play directly impacted the results or not, Texas A&M lost a handful of games last season despite late fourth-quarter leads. Tannehill's release is not the ideal, top-to-bottom motion that coaches covet, though it is consistent and generates plenty of velocity. Tannehill flashes his immaturity when reading progressions, making a couple of poor throws into disguised coverage in each contest. Some throws are rushed due to backside pressure, and Tannehill does have a tendency to hold onto the ball a bit too long when moving laterally with his eyes downfield.

Outlook: Despite common perception, Tannehill is neither a project nor raw. His command and control of the pocket rival top prospects in previous classes. I do not see the multitude of poor reads and throws others seem to perceive. In fact, the way in which Tannehill succeeded at receiver while attending both position meetings and instantly flashing mature quarterback qualities is stunning. After viewing 12 of Tannehill's 19 starts, he ranks as my eighth overall player, and I'd bang the table for the Browns to draft him with the fourth selection. Tannehill may ultimately land with college coach Mike Sherman, who's now the offensive coordinator of the Miami Dolphins. Sherman, of course, helped shape the game of Aaron Rodgers, with whom Tannehill shares a similar playing style. It will not take Tannehill three years to develop, though, and I'd wager he starts early and finds success much sooner than others project. He has every trait that a quality QB must possess and graduated from an offense that used many NFL principles. If you cannot get over the facts that he was a successful receiver, has a relatively limited number of quarterback starts, and his team relinquished late-game leads, I implore you to dig below the surface.

What a difference a year makes.

Last draft season, many observers were convinced that Andrew Luck's return to college deprived the 2011 draft class of its only elite quarterback prospect. Fast forward one Cam Newton Rookie of the Year award and 12 months later, and a large chunk of informed analysts believe Luck should be challenged for the top quarterback ranking by the 2011 Heisman Trophy winner.

The departure from consensus opinion does not stop there, as some feel the only two quarterbacks worth first-round selections will be drafted with the first two overall picks. Opinions are all across the board on Texas A&M?s Ryan Tannehill and Oklahoma State?s Brandon Weeden. Sure, fewer teams need quarterbacks compared to last offseason, but it is not farfetched to predict that four signal callers will be drafted on day one. With the Eagles, Chiefs, and other seemingly quarterback-secure teams entering the rookie discussion in an annually unpredictable draft, anything can happen.

As rookie quarterbacks continue to earn playing time sooner each year, it is probable that at least four of the players broken down here will start a game in 2012.

1. Andrew Luck, Stanford

Height/Weight: 6'4/234
College Experience: Fourth-year junior
40 Time: 4.67
Comparison: Rich Gannon
2011 Stats: 288-of-404 (71.3%) for 3,517 yds (8.71 YPA), 37 TD/10 INT; 3.2 YPC, 2 TD
Draft Prediction: Colts, No. 1 overall

Positives: Luck has fantastic pocket movement, consistently stepping up when facing outside pressure or flowing laterally against interior blitzes. He handles free rushers like a pro by immediately escaping the pocket or delivering a quick throw. One of the few stud QB prospects that is already comfortable from center, Luck's drop steps are very mature and coordinated with proper footwork. It is often overlooked, but Luck consistently delivers crisp passes with sound placement after working through progressions, even in limited space to operate. He is comfortable with anticipation routes after graduating from Stanford's traditional pro-style offense, consistently delivering passes in a catchable area before the receiver's head is turned. Luck protects the ball very well when moving in confined areas, covering it with both hands and dipping his shoulder to evade contact. His motion is incredibly smooth, with no hitches and a top-to-bottom release. Rather than sticking only to open options, Luck gives his receivers the benefit of the doubt if they have a step on the defender in close coverage or in mismatch situations. He isn't going to kill you on the run, but Luck uses his athleticism effectively, climbing the pocket while keeping his eyes downfield or taking the yards the defense gives him. He consistently tests defenses vertically, taking calculated shots in the deep sections of the field.

Negatives: It has been widely discussed that Luck lacks elite arm strength, and while that may or may not be the case, he certainly could follow through more often since some passes are shortarmed. He is a bit cautious in terms of velocity on short to intermediate routes, choosing to take off a few clicks to guide a pass to its target rather than firing a bullet. Luck could also improve his downfield trajectory, as some passes have too much arch. He struggles the most when a quick-hitting play is covered, whether it be a screen pass or an initial target after a three-step drop. Luck tends to panic more than usual in these situations, forcing a throw or losing coordination in his lower body.

Outlook: Luck is not a perfect prospect, but I firmly believe he is in a class of his own in this year's signal-calling crop. In fact, I would put Luck in the "rare" category of draft prospects, a title recently held by only Calvin Johnson and Ndamukong Suh. Luck truly is beyond his years in terms of development by having more play-calling responsibility than numerous starting quarterbacks in the NFL -- with outstanding results. Luck might make it look too easy, and even boring at times with a smooth throwing motion and well-placed throws, but those skills will translate into consistency. Luck may not possess of the upside of Cam Newton or Robert Griffin III in terms of maximizing athletic potential and using it at the quarterback position. However, there is no doubt Luck's game seamlessly translates to NFL competition. Indianapolis will be a tough year-one landing spot, but Luck will instantly become the best player on the Colts' offense.

2. Robert Griffin III, Baylor

Height/Weight: 6'2/223
College Experience: Fourth-year junior
40 Time: 4.41
Comparison: Michael Vick
2011 Stats: 291-of-402 (72.4%) for 4,293 yds (10.7 YPA), 37 TD/6 INT; 3.9 YPC, 10 TD
Draft Prediction: Redskins, No. 2 overall

Positives: The Heisman winner dominated the Big 12 while showing dramatic improvement from the 2010-2011 season. Griffin is most lethal outside the pocket, keeping his eyes up to stretch defenses laterally then unleashing outstanding vertical bucket throws that always seem to be placed perfectly on the receiver's outside shoulder. Despite rare athleticism, Griffin is a passer first with high intelligence and a great grasp of the game, which has previously been a downfall for dual-threat quarterbacks. Griffin is still a dangerous runner and unafraid of getting skinny between the tackles. He always seems to get the ball out quickly, allowing the receiver to run in open space after the catch. Griffin is very active in the pocket after an initial read, effectively moving zones and spies at the second level to open up passing lanes. In the majority of times he faces edge pressure, Griffin is unafraid of stepping up into the pocket despite inevitable contact. This kind of poise is frequently overlooked, but Griffin is prepared to take a crushing hit if it means buying an extra second for his receiver to separate. The fast-hitting spread offense is common in college, but no one ran it better than Griffin. His timing was crisp despite a furious pace and many drives ended in the endzone after only five or six snaps because of Griffin's willingness to challenge defenses vertically.

Negatives: Despite committing himself as a pass-first quarterback, I still would not call Griffin a true pocket-style thrower. At least not yet. Griffin rarely started from center and it shows in his drops off the snap. His initial steps are ideal but when the first read is covered, the athlete in Griffin often takes over. His steps begin to lack purpose and coordination, with choppy footwork or a single long stride to the next read. These inconsistent movements also materialize occasionally when the pocket closes around him, with Griffin dropping his eye level to check out the pass rush, flashing discomfort in tight spaces. With that said, Griffin has really improved the way he resets after those chaotic instances, though he could do better in feeling backside pressure. I would stop short of saying Griffin has pinpoint accuracy on intermediate routes, but he consistently places passes in a receiver's catch radius, only occasionally missing high. It's nitpicking, but I am not a huge fan of how Griffin holds the ball before his throwing motion; it is very Troy Smith-esque with bowed arms.

Outlook: I had more concern about Griffin's future before the Redskins traded up. A team should craft its offensive style to fit the quarterback's skills, but I would have questioned Griffin's future if forced to solely work in the pocket. There is no doubt he works well on the move and makes exceptional throws, but it is tough to overlook the moments when his footwork gets chaotic -- focusing more on the closing pocket than downfield targets. Griffin's fit in D.C. could not be better. His sometimes-erratic movements may become an advantage under the Shanahans, who prefer mobile quarterbacks in order to stretch the defense. It is going to be a fun ride watching a player with Griffin's mix of athleticism and mental capacity develop in an offense that fits his talents like a glove.

3. Ryan Tannehill, Texas A&M

Height/Weight: 6'4/221
College Experience: Fifth-year senior
40 Time: 4.62
Comparison: Ben Roethlisberger
2011 Stats: 327-of-521 (62.3%) for 3,744 yds (7.19 YPA), 29 TD/15 INT; 5.3 YPC, 4 TD
Draft Prediction: Dolphins, No. 8 overall

Positives: Behind only Luck, Tannehill possesses the best poise and pocket movement in this year's class. Tannehill stands calmly between the tackles, evading pass rushers like a seasoned veteran. The Texas A&M offense showcases skills that project into an NFL offense, requiring the quarterback to drop from center and read route progressions that include anticipation throws. Tannehill did this remarkably well. No receiver group in the country let its quarterback down more last year than Tannehill's, consistently dropping routine catches while losing the majority of 50/50 balls. Tannehill unabashedly put them in playmaking situations, but was rarely rewarded. Faith in his surroundings and short-term memory will aid Tannehill in the pros. He flashes multiple anticipation throws in every game and shines on intermediate comeback routes along the sideline. It all starts with Tannehill's compact motion, quick release, and comfort in a closing pocket. Don't sleep on his running ability, but the former quarterback-to-receiver-to-quarterback convert is without a doubt a pocket passer by nature.

Negatives: Tannehill made only 19 quarterback starts after amassing 112 receptions and 1,596 receiving yards at receiver. Whether his play directly impacted the results or not, Texas A&M lost a handful of games last season despite late fourth-quarter leads. Tannehill's release is not the ideal, top-to-bottom motion that coaches covet, though it is consistent and generates plenty of velocity. Tannehill flashes his immaturity when reading progressions, making a couple of poor throws into disguised coverage in each contest. Some throws are rushed due to backside pressure, and Tannehill does have a tendency to hold onto the ball a bit too long when moving laterally with his eyes downfield.

Outlook: Despite common perception, Tannehill is neither a project nor raw. His command and control of the pocket rival top prospects in previous classes. I do not see the multitude of poor reads and throws others seem to perceive. In fact, the way in which Tannehill succeeded at receiver while attending both position meetings and instantly flashing mature quarterback qualities is stunning. After viewing 12 of Tannehill's 19 starts, he ranks as my eighth overall player, and I'd bang the table for the Browns to draft him with the fourth selection. Tannehill may ultimately land with college coach Mike Sherman, who's now the offensive coordinator of the Miami Dolphins. Sherman, of course, helped shape the game of Aaron Rodgers, with whom Tannehill shares a similar playing style. It will not take Tannehill three years to develop, though, and I'd wager he starts early and finds success much sooner than others project. He has every trait that a quality QB must possess and graduated from an offense that used many NFL principles. If you cannot get over the facts that he was a successful receiver, has a relatively limited number of quarterback starts, and his team relinquished late-game leads, I implore you to dig below the surface.


4. Brandon Weeden, Oklahoma State

Height/Weight: 6'4/221
College Experience: Fifth-year senior
40 Time: 4.87
Comparison: Kyle Orton
2011 Stats: 408-of-564 (72.3%) for 4,727 yds (8.38 YPA), 37 TD/13 INT; 1 RUS TD
Draft Prediction: Browns, 22nd overall

Positives: Weeden had total command of Oklahoma State's quick-hit offense as a two-year starter. When watching game tape, it becomes instantly clear that Weeden is unafraid of placing footballs into tight windows, especially in the middle of the field. His touch is fantastic, putting just enough velocity on passes to shade them toward his target. Weeden shines on 15-yard in-routes over the middle, especially versus zone coverage. He repeatedly made this throw during Senior Bowl week, with his favorite target being Arkansas WR Joe Adams. Weeden is certainly capable of placing sideline throws on the receiver's outside shoulder with good, but not outstanding, velocity. These throws are consistently on a rope and allow receivers to continue their upfield momentum after the catch. Instant pressure does not faze him; Weeden connects on bail-out throws quickly. Having a dominant college receiver is always nice, but I would not be surprised if Weeden actually has more success without Justin Blackmon. He seemed more confident when he could file through the route progressions rather than force throws to a single target dictated by pre-snap coverage.
Negatives: Weeden is 28 years old after a failed baseball career. When highlighting only on-field attributes, Weeden has a deficiency in one major area. Even without pressure, Weeden gets too complacent at times. He throws off his back foot on quick-breaking routes or when trying to buy an extra step versus interior pressure, failing to exhibit the same poise he flashes in a confined or clean pocket. Along with his tendency to fade from the line at times, Weeden occasionally incorporates an off-hand tap which could be used as a "tell" to reveal the target he's locked onto. Sideline bucket throws aren't Weeden's specialty, as he tends to lob them too much, resulting in slight underthrows. Weeden goes through progressions when the situation calls for it, but the reads can be a bit mechanical instead of fluidly diagnosing the coverage.

Outlook: Call me crazy, but I think Weeden suffered from the Blackmon effect at times. A good number of his interceptions came from drifting away from the pocket and throwing the ball up for grabs, usually in Blackmon's direction. Weeden consistently thrived in situations where he chose the target based on what he saw in coverage, rather than coverage choosing the target pre-snap. Weeden's footwork from center was shaky at the Senior Bowl, but he continued to improve each day. It is not a stretch to believe that the backwards momentum from center will help propel him to step up in the pocket versus edge pressure. For a team that believes Weeden can start early and effectively, age should not be a major issue. Those quarterback-needy teams do not have the luxury to wait on a young signal caller. It is tough to project Weeden into a specific NFL offense, but I see Cleveland as a solid fit where Weeden could produce like a quality starter at pick number 22 or early in the second round.

5. B.J. Coleman, UT-Chattanooga

Height/Weight: 6'3/233
College Experience: Fifth-year senior
40 Time: N/A
Comparison: Jason Campbell
2011 Stats: 137-of-225 (60.9%) for 1,527 yds (6.79 YPA), 9 TD/9 INT; 1 RUS TD
Draft Prediction: Broncos, No. 108 overall

Positives: Before transferring into the FCS, Coleman attended the University of Tennessee where he studied film of Peyton Manning. And it shows in his subtle movements, in-pocket tendencies, and throwing motion. This helps define Coleman: He's a true student of the game who transferred down a level of competition to maximize his playing time. Coleman loves the pump fake, utilizing it to move coverage before showcasing NFL-level velocity. Coleman was the only player during East-West Shrine week that displayed pro arm talent. He climbs the pocket well and consistently steps toward his target. Coleman is not the typical small-school prospect, as he has experience changing line calls pre-snap and was asked to complete multiple anticipation throws to targets in windows, which he did effectively. Coleman also flashes downfield passing ability, but those vertical routes succeed far more often when his timing is on point.

Negatives: Coleman tends to aim throws rather than trust his control, leading to sporadic ball placement on intermediate routes. Despite an excellent skill set, he never managed a high completion percentage which is a bit worrisome when considering the lower level of competition. In fact, some games Coleman completely lost it, throwing nine interceptions in a two-game stretch during his junior season. The picks resulted from drifting away from the pocket when facing interior pressure. It is evident Coleman has a grasp for the offense, but his second and third reads never look as clean as the first.

Outlook: Coleman is an excellent contender to hold a clipboard for a few years while potentially developing into a low-end starter down the line. Despite starting for three seasons in college, he still has some discomfort and uneasiness to his game but plenty of talent that NFL coaches can mold. It is frustrating to see, because I think Coleman is on the cusp of grasping and processing the game quickly. He stood out during Shrine week, and even if Coleman never starts he has an excellent foundation as a backup quarterback.

6. Russell Wilson, Wisconsin

Height/Weight: 5'11/204
College Experience: Fifth-year senior
40 Time: 4.55
Comparison: Seneca Wallace
2011 Stats: 225-of-309 (72.8%) for 3,175 yds (10.3 YPA), 33 TD/4 INT; 6 RUS TD
Draft Prediction: Panthers, No. 143 overall

Positives/Negatives: Seemingly in college forever, Wilson gave up a promising baseball career to focus on football and shined in his only season in Madison. Wilson flashes tremendous comfort in the pocket and is unafraid of working through progressions, even testing the opposite side of the field. His top- to-bottom release helps calm the height questions, especially after playing behind a massive Badgers offensive line. Wilson panics a bit when his first read is covered, drifting out of the pocket and thinking he has to buy extra time when it's not the case. Wilson does reset well after moving laterally, but in order to maximize his limited velocity he needs to always step into throws. He is a very consistent thrower that can improve his poise when reading progressions after the initial target is covered.

Outlook: I doubt Wilson will ever be asked to be more than a spot starter and NFL backup, but those are two roles he can fill immediately. There are plenty of areas to improve when considering anticipation and comfort in closed spaces, but Wilson will have a long career as a backup.

7. Kirk Cousins, Michigan State

Height/Weight: 6'3/214
College Experience: Fifth-year senior
40 Time: 4.93
Comparison: Colt McCoy
2011 Stats: 267-of-419 (63.7%) for 3,316 yds (7.91 YPA), 25 TD/10 INT; 0 RUS TD
Draft Prediction: Chiefs, No. 74 overall

Positives/Negatives: A what you see is what you get player, Cousins is solid and dependable if expectations are dampened. He frequently checks out the collapsing pocket but stands in it, albeit tentatively. Cousins has experienced footwork from center, but the steps look tight and he throws off his back foot when a rusher is closing in. Cousins' arm talent is adequate at best, having to charge into outside or downfield throws, but even these attempts tend to lack ideal velocity. Michigan State's pass catchers -- three of whom will be drafted -- consistently bailed Cousins out of tough situations, winning up-for-grabs balls. Anything within 12 yards can be efficient, but there is certainly a possibility Cousins becomes the next "Captain Checkdown." He flashes commendable pocket movement at times, pressing off his back foot on a second or third read.

Outlook: Cousins is a game manager with an excellent attitude, but will need to enter a controlled environment to succeed. He certainly could keep a game going, but if Cousins was ever asked to start a game the team should look to replace him. His dynamic personality is a trait some team may love, though.

8. Ryan Lindley, San Diego State

Height/Weight: 6'4/229
College Experience: Fifth-year senior
40 Time: 4.90
Comparison: John Skelton
2011 Stats: 237-of-447 (52.3%) for 3,153 yds (7.05 YPA), 23 TD/8 INT; 0 RUS TDs
Draft Prediction: Packers, No. 163 overall

Positives/Negatives: A hot-and-cold passer, Lindley is a conundrum to evaluate. He gets out of center too slowly with a noticeable hitch in his first step, but climbs the pocket nicely after planting off his back foot. If he is given a clean pocket, Lindley completes throws all over the field with a mechanical motion and release. These passes certainly appear NFL caliber, with stick throws into tight windows after briefly looking off coverage. However, Lindley's feet get frenetic as soon as the pocket starts to crumble and he will never look graceful moving laterally. During Senior Bowl week, Lindley struggled immensely, shortarming throws and showing little touch even on intermediate passes. With all that said, it is exciting to see Lindley consistently challenge deep coverage and it is obvious he is confident in his arm. More often than not, however, that confidence gets him in trouble.

Outlook: A favorite of NFL Films guru Greg Cosell, Lindley could be this year's T.J. Yates. He overthrows far too many vertical routes and lacks accuracy downfield, but Lindley has a short memory and an arm to build on.


9. Brock Osweiler, Arizona State

Height/Weight: 6'7/242
College Experience: Third-year junior
40 Time: 4.94
Comparison: Andre Woodson
2010 Stats: 326-of-516 (63.2%) for 4,036 yds (7.82 YPA), 26 TD/13 INT; 3 RUS TD
Draft Prediction: Bills, No. 71 overall

Positives/Negatives: Despite standing like a giant in the pocket, Osweiler possesses deceiving mobility and coordination in his lower body, but his low delivery limits his motion to that of a 6-foot-3 quarterback. Not only does Osweiler's release decimate his velocity, which is only adequate despite his size, his release point incredibly erratic. This inconsistent motion leads to poor placement, frequently forcing receivers to adjust their routes even on short or intermediate throws. Osweiler's movement in the pocket is not refined and he lacks an overall consistency to his game.
Outlook: Some believe Osweiler, a former basketball recruit, is a moldable athlete they can transform into a future starter. I don't buy it. It is not easy to completely rebuild a quarterback from the foundation, which Osweiler needs, even if they bring an extraordinary work ethic. At least the late first-round discussion has considerably died down. He's more of a mid- to late-round flier.

10. Nick Foles, Arizona

Height/Weight: 6'5/243
College Experience: Fourth-year senior
40 Time: 5.14
Comparison: Trent Edwards
2010 Stats: 387-of-560 (69.1%) for 4,334 yds (7.74 YPA), 28 TD/14 INT; 0 RUS TD
Draft Prediction: Chargers, No. 183 overall

Positives/Negatives: A quarterback that has plenty of arm to test the field vertically, Foles lacks coordination throughout his game. To start, his feet and shoulders look like they are located on separate planes during his drop, and his wind-up release where he drops the ball to his shoulder is not any better. There are flashes of Foles wanting to work in the pocket, inching toward the line of scrimmage, but he always ends up firing a pass in a collapsed pocket. Like most quarterbacks, if the first option is open Foles can hit him, but even with the appropriate time he has to torque his shoulders on outside throws. Severely lacking touch, consistent accuracy, and coordination leaves Foles with an NFL projection of a deep reserve.

Outlook: Frequently, but appropriately, overlooked in the Pac 12, Foles will not have much to offer at the professional level. His movement is limited and his accuracy is adequate at best.

11. Austin Davis, Southern Mississippi - 6'2/219 ... Former walk-on ... Multi-year starter that broke many of Brett Favre's records ... Lacks velocity but mobile with sound accuracy ... Willing to work through progressions.

12. Aaron Corp, Richmond - 6'4/215 ... Transferred from USC after losing starting job to Matt Barkley ... Did not dominate FCS competition ... Thin frame with a suspect arm, but experienced and athletic.

13. Kellen Moore, Boise State - 6'0/197 ... Four-year starter and all-time FBS leader in wins... 142:28 career TD-to-INT ratio ... Could not cut the wind on sideline throws at the Senior Bowl; arm talent looked out of place.

14. G.J. Kinne, Tulsa - 6'2/235 ... Moves similarly to Jeff Garcia ... Confident in pocket with enough velocity but tremendously lacks accuracy past short throws ... Unorthodox style in terms of being off balance when releasing the ball.

15. John Brantley, Florida - 6'3/219 ... Severely overrated coming out of high school and underwhelmed at Florida ... Benched on multiple occasions in favor of sub-packages ... Wind-up release and drops the ball below shoulder, erratic accuracy.

Other QBs with an outside shot to be drafted: Chandler Harnish (Northern Illinois), Case Keenum (Houston), Tyler Hansen (Colorado), Jordan Jefferson (LSU), Jacory Harris (Miami), Patrick Witt (Yale), Darron Thomas (Oregon), Dominique Davis (ECU).

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Hotel Property Financing From Commercial Mortgage Lenders

Toronto Mortgage Broker

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For hotel property financing from a commercial lender, the key criteria for lending is going to start with cash flow, followed closely by vacancy rates and the seasonal use patterns that impact the cash flow of the hotel operation.

Other key lender requirements can revolve around the type of hotel and category. For instance is the hotel property under the flag of a national or international hotel chain? Is the hotel classified as a three, four, or five star hotel? Is it linked into a national reservation system and so on.

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Each type of lender will have their own lending/funding criteria related to hotel financing, making it critical to be applying to a funder that is interested in your particular hotel profile.

Lender Categories For Hotel Commercial Mortgage Financing

When it comes to hotel property financing, there are basically three lender categories that can be looked at.

The first category, or lowest rate category would be a bank, credit union, or other form of institutional lender which could include life insurance companies, trust companies, pension plans, and so on.

While category #1 will provide the best rates on the market, their financing requirements will also be stringent and difficult to qualify for at times.

The second lender category for hotel commercial mortgages is would be more of a ?B? lending category where the financing target of the lenders are hotels that cannot quite qualify with a bank or institutional lender.

This group would include quasi institutional lenders such as investment bankers, hedge funds, and other forms of investment funds.

The rates will be slightly higher, but lending requirements also not as rigid as you will find in the lower rate lender category.

The third category would primarily include private mortgage lenders which could range from an individual investor to a mortgage syndicate to a mortgage investment corporation.

Once again, the rate is going to be higher than what you would get from a bank or institutional lender, but the qualifying criteria will also be easier to achieve.

Private commercial mortgage financing can be an excellent source of short term funding for a hotel property.

Hotel Financing Application Process

The application process for securing a commercial mortgage on a hotel property is going to start with a completion of a standard application that clearly outlines the ownership of the hotel as well as the guarantors for the proposed mortgage.

Most commercial mortgage lenders are going to want to see at least three years of accountant prepared financial statements as well as three years of operational data to clearly understand the room and service pricing, vacancy rates, and so on. The property will require an AACI appraisal as well as an environmental audit. Financial projections will be required for the next three to five year period with all assumptions clearly outlined.

If the hotel has a marketing plan, this would also be useful for assessing the business viability of a funding application.

The resumes of the owners and managers will be required to better understand the experience that is available to the business.

There can be several other lender requirements in a hotel financing application, but the above items represent what would be required in any application.

Timelines For Completion Of A Hotel Property Financing Application

The average time of completion from the point of application to funding typically ranges in the 30 to 60 day range. The process timeline can extend even further depending on the amount of time it takes to receive all the third party requested documentation such as financial statements and appraisals.

Depending on the area and time of year, third party experts such as accountants, appraisers, and consultants may have a back log of work which can take them longer to complete your requirements.

This is another reason why the process for hotel financing should be started as soon as possible so there is plenty of time to fully explore all the relevant commercial mortgage financing options available to you.

Best Approach For Securing Hotel Property Financing

Compared to other forms of commercial property financing, a hotel finance solution is one of the more complete to arrange due to the fact that the lender or funder needs to assess both the hotel property and the business operating within it.

Commercial mortgages for tenanted properties can be much more straight forward to assess in terms of the cash flow and debt servicing requirements now and in the future.

From a lender point of view, it can also be hard at times to identify which lenders are funding hotel applications and what their lending/funding requirements are.

Commercial mortgage lenders typically are in and out of this market, depending on the strength of the economy and the strength or weighting of their portfolio.

As a result, its easy to waste valuable time working through an application with a lender that has a very low probability of actually funding your deal at the point in time you require funding.

So from both a application complexity and positioning point of view, and lender market understanding, it can make a great deal of sense to work with a commercial mortgage broker who has a good understanding of the market place an is experienced in putting an effective application package together for any targeted commercial lenders.

If you have a hotel property financing requirement for acquisition, construction, or commercial mortgage refinancing, I suggest that you give me a call so we can go over your situation in detail and review commercial mortgage financing options that available to you.

Click Here To Speak With Commercial Mortgage Broker Joe Walsh

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Faith Leaders Ask Legislature for Fair Immigration Laws ? NC ...

For the first time since its creation, a special committee reviewing North Carolina?s immigration policy heard from the public on Wednesday, March 28th.?To a hearing room packed with advocates on both sides of the immigration debate, speakers told their stories to North Carolina lawmakers charged with considering the state?s role in immigration.

Thirty-five of the more than 60 people who signed up to speak had that opportunity; of those 35 speakers, 27 were pro-immigrant including Bishop Michael B. Curry of the Episcopal Diocese of North Carolina and Reverend Isaac Villegas, pastor of the Chapel Hill Mennonite Church.

Reverend Villegas presented the co-chairs of the committee with over 175 written comments from clergy and people of faith from across the State urging the committee to carefully consider the negative impact that new tough, anti-immigration laws would have on North Carolina. Here are a few of those comments:

I plead with our legislators to not allow North Carolina to become the next Arizona or Alabama by rejecting anti-immigrant rhetoric and legislation and by, instead, supporting policies that will build our states? moral character and encourage economic growth.
~ Raleigh, NC

I truly hope that the State of North Carolina will reflect in its laws the value of hospitality to the stranger. These people live and dwell in and around my community and in many cases are the best, most hospitable, and hard working neighbors I have. Their children come to church with our children and I would oppose the concept of violently breaking up their families and their homes.
~ Cove City, NC

I urge our lawmakers to exercise compassion and common sense in order to make our state a place of hospitality as well as a place that provides safe pathways toward legal immigration status.
~ Mt. Olive, NC

North Carolina doesn?t need the embarrassment of the results of Arizona type laws that are mean-spirited and cost the economy money. We do need Immigration Reform Legislation which must be done at the Federal level.
~ Cary, NC

Underscoring the complexity and controversy associated with the issue, at the end of the emotional two-hour session, the co-chairs announced that the committee would not reconvene until after the U.S. Supreme Court ruling on the controversial Arizona immigration law.

Statement to the House Select Committee on the State?s Role in Immigration Policy by Rev. Isaac Villegas:

I don?t have any illusions that the United States of America is a Christian nation. It isn?t. I don?t have any illusions that North Carolina is a Christian state. It isn?t.

I don?t have any of these illusions because if the story of the Bible was important to us, we wouldn?t be so worried about foreigners, we wouldn?t be so afraid of immigrants. After all, the story of the Christian gospel centers on a man named Jesus ? or, as we called him in my family, Jes?s: the one who was born on the migrant trail, moving from place to place, born to parents who did everything they could to protect him from Herod and his government, parents who even defied the will of Herod and snuck away, under the cover of darkness, crossing into Egypt without proper documentation ? sin papeles, as we would put it today; parents who did all of this for the sake of their child, for the sake of Jesus.

As a Christian, I?m grateful for Mary and Joseph, those faithful parents, who kept Jesus safe from the government?s hands as they crossed borders and as they relied on the hospitality of strangers in Egypt and in Bethlehem.

Like I said, I have no illusions that this story will be important to you as you consider how to guide our state. But those of us who are Christians, and who call North Carolina our home, we can?t help but see the world through the eyes of the Bible; we can?t help but see our state, our representatives, and our communities through the story of Jesus. And when we look at the laws you pass, we will be wondering where you fit in this story, in the story of the Bible, in the story of Jesus.

Should we count you among the people who welcomed Jesus and his parents, who received them with open arms? Or should we count you among Herod?s people? As read the story of Jesus, and as we watch what you do as our representatives, we will be wondering what side you?re on.

It?s important that you, our legislators, know how we relate our faith to the debates about immigration in our state. The North Carolina Council of Churches has a statement on immigration. It says, ?As people of faith? our calling is to welcome the stranger and offer hospitality? to the migrant and refugee, regardless of legal status. We remember the words of Leviticus 19:33-34, when God tells the Israelites: ?Do not mistreat foreigners living in your land, but treat them just as you treat your own citizens. Love foreigners as you love yourselves, because you were foreigners one time in?Egypt.? ?

As you make new laws, please do not stand in our way as we practice our faith, as our churches feed the hungry and provide for the needy, as we extend hospitality, as we treat foreigners as fellow citizens, as we welcome immigrants, immigrants like Jes?s.

Rev. Isaac S. Villegas is the pastor of Chapel Hill Mennonite Fellowship and serves on the Governing Board of the NC Council of Churches.

Statement to the House Select Committee on the State?s Role in Immigration Policy by Bishop Michael Curry:

Langston Hughes, long ago in the last century, composed a poem from the perspective of being one disenfranchised as an African-American. The first sentence of that poem was ?I, too, sing America.?

I stand here to sing America, proud of her heritage, proud of her honor, proud that this is a nation who opens her arms and declares, ?Bring me your tired, your hungry, your huddled masses, yearning to breathe free.? This is a nation of immigrants, a nation of people who have come seeking only to sing America.

I call on you as members of this committee to back only legislation that reflects the best of this nation, one nation under God. I implore you, please listen to facts, and not myths, not stereotypes. Listen to the facts of the contribution of immigrants to this country to this very day.

The next time you eat a salad, remember an immigrant picked the lettuce. The next time you dine, the next time your grass is cut, the next time someone reaches out in welcome, even in another language, remember, I, too, sing America.

I, too, believe in the rule of law. I stand before you as a Christian, as a Bishop of the Episcopal Church, a church that has in successive conventions called for comprehensive immigration reform, but I, too, believe in the rule of law, but it is the rule of a higher law.

We are one nation under God, a God who, for me, came in the person of Jesus of Nazareth, who said on that great judgment day ?we will not be judged by our Church, but we will be judged by whether we fed the hungry, clothed the naked, visited the prisoners, clothed the naked, showed compassion.

?For as you did it to the least of these who are members of my family,? said Jesus of Nazareth, ?you have done it unto me.?

I, too, sing America, and I implore you, please sing America in all that you do.

Rt. Rev. Michael Curry is Bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of North Carolina.

-Chris Liu-Beers, Program Associate, and Megan Nerz, Volunteer Program Associate for Immigration

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Tornado-wrecked Dallas begins assessing damage

Texas Army National Guard Cpl. Brock Fischer of Charlie Troop, 3-124 Cav., searches a vehicle in front of a tornado damaged home Tuesday, April 3, 2012, in Forney, Texas. Tornadoes tore through the Dallas area Tuesday, peeling roofs off homes, tossing big-rig trucks into the air and leaving flattened tractor trailers strewn along highways and parking lots. (AP Photo/Tony Gutierrez)

Texas Army National Guard Cpl. Brock Fischer of Charlie Troop, 3-124 Cav., searches a vehicle in front of a tornado damaged home Tuesday, April 3, 2012, in Forney, Texas. Tornadoes tore through the Dallas area Tuesday, peeling roofs off homes, tossing big-rig trucks into the air and leaving flattened tractor trailers strewn along highways and parking lots. (AP Photo/Tony Gutierrez)

The Green Oaks Nursing and Rehabilitation center is damaged after tornadoes swept through the area, Tuesday, April 3, 2012, in Arlington, Texas. (AP Photo/The Fort Worth Star-Telegram, Rodger Mallison) MAGS OUT

Threatening clouds continue to move through southern Tarrant and Dallas counties after a tornado swept through Lancaster, Texas on Tuesday, April 3, 2012. Tornadoes tore through the Dallas area Tuesday, peeling roofs off homes, tossing big-rig trucks into the air and leaving flattened tractor trailers strewn along highways and parking lots. (AP Photo/The Fort Worth Star-Telegram, Ron Ennis) MAGS OUT

Neighbors view what remains of a home in Arlington, Texas, Tuesday April 3, 2012. Tornadoes tore through the Dallas area Tuesday, peeling roofs off homes, tossing big-rig trucks into the air and leaving flattened tractor trailers strewn along highways and parking lots. (AP Photo/The Fort Worth Star-Telegram, Ron Jenkins) MAGS OUT

Cars and property at Portofino Apartments at Pleasant Run in Lancaster, Texas are damaged after a storm passed through the area on Tuesday, April 3, 2012. Tornadoes tore through the Dallas area Tuesday, peeling roofs off homes, tossing big-rig trucks into the air and leaving flattened tractor trailers strewn along highways and parking lots. (AP Photo/The Fort Worth Star-Telegram, Ron Ennis) MAGS OUT

(AP) ? The tornado hurtled toward the nursing home. Physical therapist Patti Gilroy said she saw the swirling mass barreling down through the back door, after herding patients into the hallway in the order trained: walkers, wheelchairs, then beds.

"It wasn't like a freight train like everybody says it is," said Gilroy, who rounded up dozens to safety at Green Oaks Nursing and Rehabilitation Center. "It sounded like a bomb hit. And we hit the floor, and everybody was praying. It was shocking."

A destructive reminder of a young tornado season Wednesday left thousands without power and hundreds of homes pummeled or worse Wednesday, after the National Weather Service said as many as a dozen twisters touched down in a wrecking-ball swath of violent weather that stretched across Dallas and Fort Worth. Despite the intensity of the slow-moving storms, as of late Tuesday no fatalities or serious injuries had been reported, though there were several less serious injuries.

The exact number of tornadoes Tuesday wasn't expected to be known until surveyors fanned across North Texas, looking for clues among the debris that blanketed yards and rooftops peeled off slats.

The Red Cross put a preliminary estimate of damaged homes at 650. In the southern Dallas suburb of Lancaster, where damage was especially widespread, around 150 people remained in a shelter Tuesday night.

"I guess 'shock' is probably a good word," Lancaster Mayor Marcus Knight said.

Tornadoes raked the region just as the usual peak of the tornado season is kicking off. April is typically the worst in a season that stretches from March to June, said National Weather Service meteorologist Matt Bishop. He added that Tuesday's outburst suggest that "we're on pace to be above normal."

An entire wing at the Green Oaks nursing home in Arlington crumbled. Stunning video from Dallas showed big-rig trailers tossed into the air and spiraling like footballs. At the Cedar Valley Christian Center church in Lancaster, Pastor Glenn Young said he cowered in a windowless room with 30 children from a daycare program, some of them newborns.

Ten people in Lancaster were injured, two of them severely, said Lancaster police officer Paul Beck. Three people were injured in Arlington, including two Green Oaks residents taken to a hospital with minor injuries, Arlington Assistant Fire Chief Jim Self said.

Gilroy said the blast of wind through Green Oaks lasted about 10 seconds. She described one of her co-workers being nearly "sucked out" while trying to get a patient out of the room at the moment the facility was hit.

Joy Johnston was also there, visiting her 79-year-old sister.

"Of course the windows were flying out, and my sister is paralyzed, so I had to get someone to help me get her in a wheelchair to get her out of the room," she said.

Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport canceled hundreds of flights and diverted others heading its way. In one industrial section of Dallas, rows of empty tractor-trailers crumpled like soda cans littered a parking lot.

"The officers were watching the tornadoes form and drop," Kennedale police Chief Tommy Williams said. "It was pretty active for a while."

About 12,600 homes in Arlington alone remained without power late Tuesday, said Tiara Ellis Richard, a police spokeswoman for the city.

Most of Dallas was spared the full wrath of the storm. Yet in Lancaster, television helicopters panned over exposed homes without roofs and flattened buildings. Residents could be seen walking down the street with firefighters and peering into homes, looking at the damage after the storm passed.

American Airlines canceled more than 450 arriving and departing flights at its DFW airport hub by late Tuesday afternoon, and 37 other incoming flights had been diverted to different airports.

DFW Airport spokesman David Magana said more than 110 planes were damaged by hail. It wasn't clear how many belonged to American Airlines, but American and American Eagle had pulled 101 planes out of service for hail-damage inspections.

Flights also were canceled at Dallas Love Field, which is a big base for Southwest Airlines. That airline canceled more than 45 flights in and out of the airport by Tuesday evening.

Meteorologists said the storms were the result of a slow-moving storm system centered over northern New Mexico.

____

Merchant reported from Lancaster. Associated Press writers Nomaan Merchant, Terry Wallace and David Koenig in Dallas, Betsy Blaney in Lubbock, Angela K. Brown in Fort Worth contributed to this report.

Associated Press

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Wisconsin Exit Polling, The Electric Third Rail Paul Ryan Acid Test, Marvelous, Cold Cut Cold Case (PM Note)

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Syria steps up assault as UN moves to send monitors

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