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Word of the Day

Play lissom discuss
Definition:	(adjective) Moving and bending with ease.
Synonyms:	lithe, lithesome, supple, sylphlike, svelte, slender
Usage:	The boys were batting at the nets, and they were lissom and strong and active.

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Article of the Day

Handedness

The term handedness refers to the habitual or more skillful use of one hand as opposed to the other. Approximately 90% of people are right-hand dominant, and a number of biological, sociological, and environmental theories have been proposed to explain the trend. In 2007, researchers discovered the LRRTM1 gene, the first gene linked to an increased likelihood of left-handedness. Many cultures have associated "lefties" with evil or bad luck. What is one advantage associated with left-handedness? More... Discuss

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Daily Grammar Lesson

Subordinating Conjunctions Used with Concurrent Actions

When two actions occur at the same time, there are several subordinating conjunctions we can use, but each has a slightly different meaning. If we are not adding any particular emphasis, we use "when." However, what subordinating conjunctions would we use to emphasize that two actions occurred (or will occur) at exactly the same time or in rapid succession? More... Discuss

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Idiom of the Day

a mother hen

— A person who looks out for the welfare of others, especially to a fussy, intrusive, or overprotective degree. More...

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This Day in History

Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs Signed (1961)

In 1961, representatives from 73 nations met at United Nations headquarters to draft an international treaty to fight the production, trade, and use of illegal drugs. Their comprehensive convention replaced a prior patchwork of treaties and was entered into force in 1964. It was amended in 1972 and now has more than 180 signatories. Despite its sweeping breadth, the document contains a significant ambiguity that has been interpreted differently by various nations. What is it? More... Discuss

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Today's Birthday

Eric Patrick Clapton (1945)

Considered to be one of the greatest guitar players of all time, Clapton took up the instrument as a teen and went on to play in a succession of critically acclaimed blues and rock bands, such as the Yardbirds, the Bluesbreakers, and Cream. He is the recipient of 17 Grammy awards and is a three-time inductee into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. In the early 70s, he spent several years in seclusion battling a heroin addiction. What famous rock guitarist helped launch Clapton's comeback? More... Discuss

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Today's Holiday

Spiritual Baptist Liberation Day

This national holiday, instituted in 1996, honors an African-American religious sect once outlawed in Trinidad and Tobago. The Spiritual Baptists originally came to the islands as former American slaves. Their style of worship combines African and Baptist beliefs and practices, and services include bell ringing and shouting. In 1917, the government forbade the group from practicing their religion; this law was overturned in 1951. Their national holiday honors the Spiritual Baptists' long struggle against religious persecution. It is observed with speeches and religious services. More... Discuss

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Quote of the Day

I call therefore a complete and generous education that which fits a man to perform justly, skillfully, and magnanimously all the offices, both private and public, of peace and war.
John Milton
(1608-1674) Discuss

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