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Time to drown her sorrows! Jenna Whittingham bids her Apprentice dream goodbye after disastrous wine advert
00:26 GMT, 17 May 2012
Beauty salon owner Jenna Whittingham bid her dreams of a 250,000 investment prize farewell on tonight's episode of The Apprentice.
The 25-year-old aspiring entrepreneur was fired by Lord Sugar after her team blamed losing this week's wine promoting task on the humorous advert she directed.
The teams were asked to make an advert for a English sparkling wine but Jenna took an obtuse approach to the task.
You're fired: Beauty salon owner Jenna Whittingham bid her dreams of a 250,000 investment prize farewell on tonight's episode of The Apprentice
What were you thinking Lord Sugar questioned why Jenna had chosen to sell a 'high class' product with a jokey advert
Before the firing, Lord Sugar asked Sterling team leader Ricky if he was disappointed with the online video, saying, 'I didn't tell you to make a 'Carry on Boozing' movie… I don't know what you were thinking!'
After asking who was responsible for, 'that piece of rubbish', Lord Sugar's attention shifted to Jenna and Stephen.
Jenna admitted that she had taken a risk opting to make the advert humorous, and that it hadn't paid off.
Made a mess of it: Lord Sugar asked Sterling team leader Ricky if he was disappointed with Jenna's online video, saying 'I didn't tell you to make a 'Carry on Boozing' movie!'
It was certainly a triumph for Tom, who bravely opted to be team manager for Pheonix for the second week in a row.
Things weren't looking too rosy in the board room for him initially either however.
After viewing Phoenix's website and online advert, Lord Sugar commented: 'What's the URL for this website www.yawn.com It's a bit boring.'
He then explained that their campaign seemed more like a sales pitch than an awareness promotion.
Bubble burst: Jenna, Ricky and Stephen made a poor attempt at selling English sparkling wine
After debating with his team however, Lord Sugar concluded that although Phoenix's campaign didn't do what he has asked, Sterling had messed up too badly and were the losing team.
Phoenix were treated with a trip to a rooftop Jacuzzi at a boutique hotel, with views of the London skyline.
As ever the task was something of a shambles from the get go, with some candidates getting rather distracted by the product at hand.
The candidates met at St Pancreas station bright and early at 5.45am to start the task, where they were addressed by video of Lord Sugar.
Bottoms up: The losing team came up with an advert in which a bride spat out champagne because she wanted English sparkling wine which left Lord Sugar confused
He explained: 'In Britain last year we imported 35 million bottles of champagne, but lots of people have no idea how good our home-grown product is.'
'English sparkling wine has won many awards and is far superior to some brands of champagne. It's your job to raise awareness of English sparkling wine.'
With Phoenix two team members down, Lord Sugar decided to mix the teams up, and asks them to pick a member of Sterling to join them. They quickly select Nick.
Finding out about the product: Members of team Phoenix sampled the tipple as part of their research
The teams were charged with the aim of creating a new image for the English sparkling wine industry, design a website and online marketing campaign and then pitching their campaign to leading figures in the industry.
As ever the team with best campaign would win, and on the losing team, one candidate would be fired.
Yet again, Adam was out of his comfort zone on the task.
Got distracted: Adam is seen sampling the wine, but it is unclear how this is helpful to the task
He confessed during the tasting: 'I know zero about wine.' This become evident when he observes, 'you can smell Christmas cake,' much to Karren Brady's amusement.
Tom and Adam ended their day conducting a wine tasting class, while the rest of the team worked on an advertising campaign at a marketing agency.
Karren Brady mused: 'Whilst they've been enjoying themselves, the other team have been really busy. Should the Project Manager be having fun or should he actually be in control of the task'
Sharing the knowledge: Tom even found time to educate some women about different wines
Though as Ricky was picked as Project Manager on Sterling, he was clearly aware that his rival Tom has much more experience in the field, admitting, 'I have probably only drunk wine once or twice in the past, I hate the stuff.'
Meanwhile Whittingham recently admitted: 'To be honest with you – this sounds really awful – but I haven't really watched every single series of The Apprentice.'
'It was a case of last year when they announced it was going to be the investment that I watched a few clips and put my application in because I genuinely wanted to get an investment.'
A toast to success! The winning team celebrated with bubbles, naturally


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Galaxy S8 vs. ' iPhone 8': Samsung gets first crack at next-gen phone
Samsung is getting ready to tee up its next flagship Galaxy smartphone against a backdrop of growing rumors about rival Apple's 2017 iPhone.
Expected to be announced by the end of March, the next-gen Samsung Galaxy S8 models will sport bigger displays than current models -- 5.8 inches and 6.2 inches respectively, according to recent reports, most notably in the Guardian and Venture Beat.
Samsung, for the first time, may also standardize on curved organic light-emitting diode (OLED) "dual-edge" displays. To date, the mainstream Galaxy models have not had a curved display. For example, the Galaxy S7 (5.1 inches) does not have a curved display, while the pricier S7 Edge (5.5 inches) does. A display with curved edges provides more display area without increasing the overall size of the phone.
One neat trick that Samsung is expected to pull off with the S8 is covering the front of the phone with more display area by shrinking the bezels, or display borders, on the top and bottom of the phone, as affiliate Samsung Display has hinted at in recent videos. Samsung is also expected to adjust the aspect ratio (the ratio of the width to the height of the screen) of the display. Both of these developments will allow Samsung to minimize an increase in the overall size of the phone.
Other highlights, as pointed out by Evan Blass at Venture Beat, are new processors that boost overall performance by 11 percent while also being more energy efficient.
"That improved power consumption will be critical, because despite the vastly increased display sizes, battery capacity is said to be a relatively conservative…for the 5.8-inch and 6.2-inch designs, respectively," Blass wrote.
And a rumored standard feature that will undoubtedly please consumers is the 64GB of baseline storage – up from 32GB on the Galaxy S7. The option for an additional 256GB microSD card will remain.
Other reported specs include a USB-C port for charging, a 3.5mm headphone jack (which Apple dropped on the iPhone 7), a 12-megapixel rear camera and front-facing 8-megapixel selfie camera.
Samsung is also rumored to ditch the physical home button in favor of software buttons. And the fingerprint sensor will be on the back of the phone. Note that neither of these latter rumored changes would be groundbreaking. The Google Pixel, for example, has no physical home button and has the fingerprint sensor on the back.
And the price? Blass expects both models to be pricier than the Galaxy S7 and S7 Edge. Possibly $100 more. Both are expected to go on sale April 21.
OLED iPhone 8/X will follow Galaxy S8
Samsung and Apple are locked in a tight market share battle. This week market researcher Gartner said Apple shipped more phones in the fourth quarter than Samsung, the first time since the fourth quarter of 2014.
And reports about the Galaxy S8 are vying with a flurry of new reports about Apple's upcoming iPhone 8 (or iPhone X as some on Wall Street are calling it), due later this year.
MacRumors cited an analyst report this week that said the OLED iPhone 8 will feature a 5.8-inch display "with 5.15 inches of usable screen space." While the iPhone 8's display is expected to take up the entire front of the phone, a portion of that space will be devoted to "virtual buttons."
The overall physical size of the phone is said to be similar to the 4.7-inch iPhone 7, which would allow for easier one-handed operation.
"Such a size is possible with a 5.8-inch [display] panel because there will be no extra space outside of the display," MacRumors said, referring to the elimination of bezels.
Apple is also expected to increase battery capacity -- without increasing the size of the phone -- by adopting an advanced stacked circuit board.
Samsung and Apple did not respond to a request for comment from Fox News.

subset: commoncrawl


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Originally posted by emaildogs
And I thought it was complicated.
Seriously, this would explain USOs as well. Maybe they one and the same?
Originally posted by Soapusmaximus
Can I just ask where you get this information?
And how would this account for the defiance of psychics genuine UFO's display?
I don't think you know where your going with this......
This thread is purely to reveal the internal workings of "Transport Interfaces" Not used by the Human Species on Earth.
This crap should be posted on other sites, but not here.
reply to post by MainLineThis
Honestly, and it is far past time for us to be honest with each other, does a thread like this, with an opening line like that deserve to be paid attention to?


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MISTRAL began in 1997 to build Freestyle boards – and was hit by waves of
scepticism. Only one year later MISTRAL was regarded as a trendsetter and
since then every one of our Freestyle boards has been a runaway success.
MISTRAL´s newest Freestyle funster is the Joker – the ideal board for
water freestyle, hardcore freestyle moves and competition use in an
absolutely unique and radical design. Its technical details can be found
on the MISTRAL Homepage: <www.mistral.htmwww.mistral.com .
The success story of MISTRAL's Freestyle boards has continued ridiculously
strongly with the Joker: now, only weeks after its first appearance in
March 2003, the board is practically sold out as we have only one board in
each size on the shelf!
The absolutely last chance to get your hands on one of these feverishly
desired boards is to take part in our special auction and bid for one of
the Jokers exclusively on the MISTRAL Homepage
The highest bidder will not only receive the last available Joker 2003,
but will also support Greenpeace with the successful bid. Greenpeace will
use the money to help with cleaning the oil deposited on those stretches
of coast hit hardest by the Prestige accident last year. The sinking of
this tanker was one of the worst environmental disasters suffered by
France, Portugal and Spain and there are still innumerable helpers on the
beaches working to free the coast and its affected wildlife from spilt oil.
There are always more than enough environmental causes that need financial
support, so why did MISTRAL get involved in this one? Windsurfing is a
watersport and we hope, with the auctioning of the Joker, not only to help
protect our oceans but also to help bring back the practice of our
wonderful sport of windsurfing to those areas closed down by the oil disaster.
You can make your bids by email internationally from now to the MISTRAL
Homepage. The auction ends on 25th May 2003 at 23.59 hours. Each day we
shall post the highest bid on this site. Once the auction has ended, we
shall contact the new owner of this special Joker in writing.


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Todays post is about a little product I recently discovered and have fallen in love with. I have heard about Origins Vita Zing through a few bloggers. I never actually use moisturisers. I have semi oily skin that I feel works fine with just a primer. However I had noticed me skin was looking a little dull lately, so I was on the hunt for a product to add a nice glow and make it look healthy. This product does that exactly.
Upon squeezing out the bottle, it comes out white, like a normal moisturiser. When blended into the skin it turns skin colour giving the tiniest amount of coverage. If you had good skin you could get away with this as your base. I think for me it smooth's out my skin giving me an even complexion. I use less foundation with this as it semi covers any blemishes I may have.
The finish of this product is so nice, the nicest product I've ever used. It leaves the skin with a natural glow, that makes you look fresh and awaken. The glow it leaves is unlike anything else I have ever tried. One great thing is it has not broken me out yay. I really do love it. It also smells divine, almost like oranges.
I cannot recommend this product enough if your looking for a product that will add a healthy glow, give you a bit of coverage for lazy days and an all around hydrating moisturiser this one is for you.
*Origins Vita Zing can be bought from Debenhams for €35.50 for 50ml.


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Subscribe To Bad Boys 3 Announced By Martin Lawrence Updates
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On the day of August 13th, 2014, Sir Martin Lawrence appeared on the Conan television talk show. His intentions were to promote discussion and celebration of his new FX series Partners. Mr. Lawrence was plenty excited about the team-up with Kelsey Grammer. But he was, perhaps,more excited about a new project. A project that will reshape the cinematic world as we know it.
Though the show has only just aired, we have heard that Martin Lawrence has announced another collaboration with Michael Bay. Once again, the actor will be playing Detective Marcus Burnett. Shit just got real: there's going to be a Bad Boys 3.
Lawrence says that he has been talking with producer Jerry Bruckheimer, and that a screenplay for Bad Boys 3 is being actively developed. The script would "potentially re-team him" with co-star Will Smith. But, really,how can you have Marcus without Mike Lowry?And going a step beyond that, how can you have Smith and Lawrence without Michael Bay? Smith is going to spend his fall making an untitled NFL concussion drama for director Peter Landesman. Michael Bay will wipe the stink of Transformers off him with a documentary about wildlife poaching. Martin Lawrence will, in all likelihood, depressingly shoot ninety more episodes of Partners.
After all that, could Michael Bay return to continue the epic tale of Mike Lowry and Marcus Burnett? Criticize Mr. Bay for his flashy style, and his celebration of excess, cruelty and capitalism, but it is an undeniable fact that he was put on this Earth to make Bad Boys movies. Bad Boys was his first movie, and its a pretty sedate affair; a movie that was once meant to star Dana Carvey and Jon Lovitz, and had likely been worked around a bit by producers and script doctors.
Bad Boys 2, however, is the Michael Bay movie they'll play in Heaven for all his fans, and in Hell for all his detractors. Bearing very little resemblance to the first film, it is a celebration of sociopathic excellence, one of the most viscerally violent movies ever made for a major studio, both aesthetically and morally. It is a monument of towering action gratuitousness, and now Bay is returning to that sandbox after the four films in the planet-destroying Transformers films, and also the uniquely misanthropic Pain And Gain. Michael Bay's art is Bad Boys and he's hopefully about to paint his masterpiece.
David Guggenheim (Safe House) is just the latest screenwriter hired by Sony to script Bad Boys 3. Knowing Bay, he will read this script, keep three pages of it, throw the rest in the garbage and announce to the crew, "Okay guys, today we're going to violently throw cars." Every day. Bad Boys 3 is coming. Michael Bay will fulfill his promise. An angel will get its wings, and fly to the heavens while playing the riff from Hot For Teacher on repeat. Life is beautiful.


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On Saturday 29th April, Fair Housing for Frome launched its one–year campaign to raise awareness of and find solutions to the housing crisis in Frome with a lively public meeting attended by more than 60 people.
The event was opened by Frome Mayor Toby Eliot, who described it as a wonderful model of community activism. "This is one of the most important issues facing our town" he said. "The people of Frome chose to fund it through the Town Council's participatory budgeting process last month, and are now coming together to see what's in their power to change. This is an example of what Frome does and the extraordinary way that it tackles problems. Its good to see so many people here."
The assembled crowd listened to four moving stories of local housing need. The first was a young working couple who are leaving their home town because they can't find stable affordable accommodation in Frome.
Louise and her family are in the process of fitting out a van with beds for them and their three young children in case they can't find a new rented home before their current tenancy expires.
Pete is paying £70 per week to share a bedroom with one of his mates rather than go back on the street.
James has spent the winter in a yurt with his two children aged 4 and 6 years, without running water or electricity. He is self-employed and has been turned down for a mortgage even though his parents will help him with the deposit.
It turned out that some of the people present at the meeting had equally harrowing stories to share. One woman who spoke up is fighting the eviction of her family just as her 18-year old son is preparing for his A-Levels. Another mother spoke about having to go round to her friends and beg them for something to eat because all the family's money was going on their housing.
Real-life stories of housing need were interspersed with worrying facts about the extent of the housing crisis.
After this powerful beginning to the meeting, participants divided into six groups focusing on: homelessness, shared living, self build, tenants and landlords and housing policy. There was also a 'What if?' group looking at fresh ideas and approaches. After a tea break full of lively conversations, questions and suggestions were put to a panel of national and local housing experts. Information stands were provided by Mendip District Council, Mendip Credit Union and Frome Co-Housing.
Many practical suggestions were made during the afternoon. These included: setting up a Frome-owned investment company that can buy and let properties at an affordable rent; developing a Community Land Trust; recruiting and training up a team of volunteer advocates to support families in housing crisis; building on the Fair Landlords scheme; and providing better information about what is already available. Simon Keyes, who chaired the panel, also encouraged those present to make housing a key issue in the upcoming election, noting that it was disappointing that MP David Warburton had chosen not to attend.
The next meeting of Fair Housing for Frome will take place from 6-8pm on Monday 22 May at Frome Town Hall, focusing on the potential of self build. It's free of charge and everyone is welcome. For more information and to join the mailing list visit www.fairhousingforfrome.org.uk.


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By Jason Calacanis
A year and a half ago, while hosting an unsanctioned -- but very lucrative -- poker game at the TED conference in Long Beach, I wrote the worst prediction of my career.
In a blog post titled "Google Buzz is brilliant, Facebook just lost half its value," I gushed over BUZZ, Google's very impressive second stab at social networking. Their first, Orkut, was a Friendster-like service that was serviceable, but not something folks would consider wildly innovative.
BUZZ was wildly innovative because, like the recently funded Color social network, it created what I've dubbed the "implied social network" (ISN) from your most emailed users. This was a brilliant, but dangerous, gamble. Your contact list is a great place to start building a social network -- except in the event that you've been in a flame war with your abusive ex-husband.
Color is building an ISN based on proximity, e.g., you took a photo at Madison Square Garden and Gramercy Tavern just like I did, so we must have something in common (in this case we both like to drown our Orange and Blue sorrows in morels, foie gras and sweetbreads). My interview with Color's founder here.
After gaining an impressive collection of vanguard users, including Leo Laporte and Robert Scoble, the buzz around BUZZ died down.
It was really odd: Google simply stopped innovating on the platform. We learned last week that Buzz development continued in the form of Google's third major stab at social networking, Google+.
New entries into the consumer Internet market typically need some combination of the following in order to succeed:
a) a brilliant technical innovation
b) a brilliant business innovation
c) a bunch of little innovations around things like design, speed, community and quality
In the case of Facebook vs. Myspace, Facebook won based on amazing technological innovations in the form of the app platform. In fact, one entrepreneur on the app platform is responsible for half of Facebook's success: Mark Pincus.
Without Mark's innovations driving 20% to 35% of the traffic on Facebook (in my estimation), Facebook would be half the company it is today. In fact, don't be surprised if Zynga is responsible -- even at this late date -- for 25% of the time spent on Facebook and a third of its earnings. We will find out when Facebook files its IPO.
Zynga's IPO filing shows $597.5M in revenue and $90.6M in earnings in 2010. If Facebook had around $2B in revenue and $250 million in earnings in 2010, and 99% of Zynga's revenue comes from Facebook, the math says Zynga could be nearly a third of of FB's top and bottom line.
This is strictly an educated guess, and we don't know how much money Zynga paid to Facebook to get traffic. However, Zynga has long been rumored to be the largest advertiser on Facebook. We also know that Zynga is paying a whopping 30% of Facebook credits purchased to The Zuck.
Is it possible that Zynga is contributing $300M in Facebook credits and $200M in advertising back to Facebook? Do tell us what you know: email@example.com. :-)
Anyway, back to Google+.
While my BUZZ prediction was way off (thanks to Google freezing development!), I think my Google+ prediction will be spot on: Google+ will compete with Facebook as effectively as Android is competing with the iPhone.
Which is to say, Google+ and Facebook will, essentially, split the social market in half (+/- 15%).
Here are my top reasons why Google+ will be a crushing success.
1. Larry Page and Sergey Brin are using the product
When Larry Page took over as CEO, I sent him an email and told him that if Google was going to be taken seriously as a player in social, he needed to get a Twitter account and start using it.
Leadership starts at the top, and Google's leadership is, finally, taking social seriously. Notoriously press-shy Larry (how many interviews has he done since taking over as CEO? oh yeah, zero) sharing kiteboarding photos speaks volumes. Sergey is also posting, interestingly, action shots (a sky-diving photo).
2. Forced categorization of contacts
Google+ forces you, through an elegant user interface, to put your contacts into circles. When you update your profile (a.k.a. your Facebook newsfeed or Twitter stream), you are forced to select who you want to give this information to.
This throttles how quickly you can build your social network and how quickly you can share with it -- and that's a good thing! Zuckerberg elected to build Facebook as fast as possible, and he believed people would never take the step to select which groups they wanted people to belong to, let alone which groups they would send to.
That decision, combined with the horrible treatment of a user's privacy, has meant that many people simply do not trust Facebook. Google realizes this, and in a brilliant move the company has, as Dave Winer says, "zigged where they zagged."
3. Google Hangouts is as good as Skype, and a lot more fun
Google Hangouts is a 10-person, video chat product that's fun and free. You can hangout with your address book in seconds, it's rock solid and -- did I mention -- completely free. I could certainly see myself using this product instead of firing up Skype.
4. Chrome Browser and Chrome Store integration
If you didn't know, Chrome now has 20.7% of the browser market. That's from a cold start with the beta launch in September 2008. Google also has an app store that competes with the iTunes store and charges 30% to developers for apps just like Apple. However, Google only charges 5% for in-app purchases, while Apple holds the line at a very unfair 30% for in App purchases.
That's how Google like to do it: take your competitors revenue stream -- be it Microsoft Office, Windows, Apple's iOS or Apple's in App purchases -- and make them free (or close to free).
Google gave Angry Birds away for free on Chrome starting on May 12. More than 1M folks downloaded it in the first 10 days. Boom.
Browser market share = power.
Facebook does not have a browser or an app store -- yet. You can be sure there are 50 developers somewhere on the Facebook campus working on one right now -- 100% sure.
5. Android integration
Let's do some deep, deep analysis shall we?
a) Apple has a mobile operating system but no social network.
b) Facebook has a social network, but no mobile OS.
c) Microsoft has a mobile OS but no social network (arguably, Skype is a dormant one).
d) Google has a social network and an operating system.
Who's going to have the best mobile social user experience?
If you answered D, you are correct.
6. The avant garde have left Facebook already
Last week I gave the opening keynote for the fabulous Future of Web Apps conference in Las Vegas. If you've never been to a Carsonified event, I highly recommend it, as it's filled with people who actually build stuff (as opposed to CEOs like me who simply take credit for other people's work).
During that keynote I asked how many folks used Facebook for photo-sharing. About 15% to 20% of the audience raised their hands. I asked how many folks used a new service like Instagram, Path or Twitter to share their photos, and 70% of the audience raised their hands.
I asked how many people were using Facebook more now than last year. Almost no one raised their hands.
The tech-savvy crowd has grown tired of Facebook and Facebook's privacy games -- including the huge misstep of making facial recognition opt-out and not opt-in -- are starting to drive folks from the platform.
Bottom line: if you own Facebook shares, I'd sell them at the $70B to $80B market cap you can get now and put that money into Google shares. I'm absolutely certain that $1 invested in Google (at a $167B market cap) will make it to $2 before $1 invested in Facebook (at $80B market cap) makes it to $2.
Google+ is another sign that Facebook has peaked.
LAUNCH Coda
#39: Debate is what scared people do instead of trying.


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News: Ironman St George and Australia are coming up this weekend, This Week in Lance.
This Weeks Discussion: This week we have two discussions, one from Bevan and one from John. First of all: If you could create one law that was designed to get society fitter and healthier, and the government would have to implement it, what would it be? The second question is: Who will win Kona 2015? This can be in the male or female field. Comment here.
High 5: John does a High 5 on how to fit training in and not hurt your relationship. Here's the book that Bevan was talking about: The Relationship Cure.
Age Grouper of the Week: Ken Maclaren sent through this weeks Age Grouper Lesley Wilson. After not being able to do a full Ironman in Taupo this year she set up her 'A Long Days Tri-ing' where she completed the whole IM distance. She managed to finish her day in a time of 16:09:45. Great work Lesley.
Website of the Week: Morton Liebach sent through www.swole.me. It's a good site that can generate a diet based on your own requirements.
This Weeks Websites: www.christianisakson.com, blind runner Simon Wheatcroft interview.


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San Rafael is home to the largest grouping of mid-century modern homes in Marin. Home builders Joseph Eichler and the Alliance Homes Company constructed large developments of mid-century modern homes for the masses in the 1950's and early 60's, using designs created by architects Anshen and Allen, Jones and Emmons, and Claude Oakland. Over 1,500 of these classic post-and-beam ranch homes can be found throughout the Terra Linda & Lucas Valley neighborhoods, which is great news for the mid-century modern enthusiast.
Frank Lloyd Wright. That is the name that comes to mind when one thinks of San Rafael architecture. The grand and very famous Marin Civic Center was designed by the Grandfather of Modernism himself. In collaboration with his associate Aaron Green, Wright created a structure that would seem to "melt into the sunburnt hills". To some it may look like it is from a planet far, far away; but modernists see the true beauty in the rounded windows, bright blue domed roofline and protruding gold spire. With park like grounds landscaped by Royston and Hanamoto surrounding it and a children's park (which is, by the way, scheduled for a facelift) on the grounds, the Civic Center is a magnet for locals and sightseers alike.
If you are looking for a little variety in architecture - something not quite Eichler, but not Frank Lloyd Wright either - you can find custom homes designed by Anshen and Allen, Francis Joseph McCarthy, David Beverly Thorne, and Aaron Green to name a few. If you have a yen for an Eichler, but don't want one that was mass-produced, there are a couple of custom Eichlers in the Peacock Gap area. It might, however, be a long wait for one to be available! Other San Rafael neighborhoods where mid-century modern homes can be found include Sunnyside, the Dominican area, Loch Lomond, and the Fairhills Drive area.
Should something with a contemporary flair be more to your liking, San Rafael has one of the only loft buildings in Marin. The Marin Lofts, designed by architects Jerry Kler and Jack Rittenhouse, is an industrial-style complex with 15 residences. High ceilings, exposed rafters, and oversized windows give these homes an open, airy feeling.
You want modern design but your budget is tight. That doesn't need to be a problem. Take a look at San Rafael real estate and explore your many options. It is crawling with modern homes and is convenient to San Francisco, Napa, and the East Bay. Better yet, 3-4 bedroom single family homes can be had for $700k to $1.3M, which is a bargain by either Marin or San Francisco standards.
Contact Us if we can help you purchase or sell a modern, mid-century modern or other architecturally distinct property in San Rafael, California.
Care to share your wisdom about other modernist homes in San Rafael, California? Want to learn more about San Rafael? Selecting any of these banners will take you directly to relevant San Rafael real estate & school information:


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Chili and corn bread, rock climbing, hidden forests, twinkle lights, mountains, mustaches, a ceremony tree, fireflies, kayaks, fusbol, a big starry sky dotted with paper lanterns. Thanks so much to the darling couple for inviting us along, Camp Hidden Meadows for the lovely setup, West Virginia for the gorgeous backgroup and my darling associate photographer Elicia Bryan Photography for some wonderful photos in the mix.
*** Interested in having me photograph your wedding? Shoot me a message here.
For more on my wedding photography style and philosophy, have a look at Sarah Gormley Photography in Rangefinder Magazine and on A Practical Wedding blog.


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Vulnerabilities such as MS15-034 are big deal for information security specialists who have to keep up with the critical security patches on high pressure business environments. In one hand they know that the cat is out of bag and they have to find out their vulnerable servers, however, on the other hand they can't find an early reliable scanner to find out what are those. Plus, in some of the environments it's not at their leisure to perform non-planned mass scans.
While the scans are executed and imported, NormShield also gathers version information of assets as CPEs. NormShield also periodically gathers vulnerability and exploits information from sources like NVD as CVEs and ExploitDB as exploit ids. These CPEs, CVEs and other exploit information are then related to each other, therefore, NormShield can passively find possible vulnerabilities in products that assets are using. The more granular the version information NormShield gathers the sharper vulnerability matching gets.
Figure 1 shows Passive Scan tab under an asset panoramic view explained in Asset Panorama. The system matches the CPEs gathered with the CVEs and logs the matches.
Alarms are produced in two cases;
- A new CPE with existing CVE matches is found for an asset
- A new CVE is published for existing CPE(s) of an asset
Figure 1 - Passive vulnerability scan sub interface under Asset panoramic view
Since products, their versions are determined through automatic scans there's always possibility that they may be wrong or inconsistent. Because of this, users can also add their products manually using the Search Product and Add Product operations. Plus, users can also delete the wrong ones with the Delete icon next to the each product row.


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Fly A (Real!) Spitfire
By James Grahame
The Supermarine Spitfire is a legendary machine. It played a key role in the Battle of Britain and throughout WWII, earning it an honoured place in the imagination of almost every British schoolboy for decades to come.
I was no exception, drawn to its distinctive elliptical wings, sleek cowl, roaring Merlin V12 and the promise of power and victory. As a child, I spent many hours fiddling with glue and Airfix model kits in a shed somewhere in Oxford. One of my first airplane models was a Spitfire Mk. I, followed a week or two later by a Messerschmitt Bf 109 (just so I'd have something to shoot down).
Of course, the notion of actually taking the controls of a Spitfire was out of the question then and -- for all but a talented few -- remains largely out of reach today. There are somewhere around 40 airworthy Spitfires in existence, but most are single seat aircraft.
That's where the Boultbee Flight Academy comes in. They have a pair of twin seat Spitfires based at the Goodwood Aerodrome in West Sussex. Their two day introductory course (£5500) includes ground and flight training in the three aircraft most commonly used to train RAF pilots during WWI: the De Havilland Tiger Moth, the North American Aviation Harvard (known as the Texan in the USA) and the venerable Vickers Supermarine Spitfire.
Participants are required to have a valid ICAO private pilot license with medical, and there is a weight limit of 100 kg (86 kg if you intend to fly aerobatics). You'll receive six hours of ground instruction followed by a total of 70 minutes flight time in an open cockpit de Havilland Tiger Moth biplane or a post-war de Havilland Chipmunk, a further 40 minutes in the Harvard advanced trainer and finally another 40 minutes in the rear seat of a Spitfire.
While the instructor will handle takeoffs and landings in the complex and demanding Spitfire, you can take the controls once off the ground to experience the Spitfire's power and lightning fast response first-hand. One Boultbee student was humbled to accidentally climb 1200 feet while executing nothing more challenging than a gentle turn.
If aerobatics are your thing, you can experience loops, rolls and perhaps even an Immelmann or two. If you're the type who wants to maximize you time at the controls in a somewhat more relaxed fashion, the Boultbee instructor will be more than happy to let you take the controls and zorch happily around the sky.
I can think of no better way to celebrate a birthday, promotion or mid-life crisis.
Learn more from the Boultbee Flight Academy.


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Category Archives: Party Themes
Easter Egg Hunt Brunch Party
Growing up we celebrated Easter by getting new dresses for church and an Easter basket full of dyed hard-boiled eggs, malt balls, and Raisinets. After church our Grandmother would take my sister, cousin and myself downtown to see the play "Simon Peter." Those were sweet childhood memories for us. It was fun and it was […]
Super Bowl Party Recipe List
Super Bowl day recipe ideas.
Halloween Baby Shower
Halloween baby shower, revisited!
"Where the Wild Things Are" Themed Birthday Party!
We had a party for Oliver's 1st birthday, and I'm still in a state of shock that a year has already passed. The party theme was one of my dearest childhood books growing up, "Where the Wild Things Are". It was a wild rumpus of a party and couldn't have been a better celebration of […]
Animal Nose Lollipops
Cute animal lollipops add a little fun to your children's next birthday party.
Vintage-Style Circus Themed Baby Shower
Vintage-style circus baby shower is a fun and unique theme to have for your baby's special day.
Cupcake Toppers for Kid's Parties
Easy to make cupcake toppers for birthday parties.
Halloween-Themed Baby Shower
I hosted a baby shower on Halloween for some good friends. Food served included ghost pumpkin cupcakes, homemade pumpkin spice ice cream, caramel apples, spiced cider, cinnamon apple tart, and more.


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Change the words... Change your life
It took me 35 years to find happiness, to believe I was worthy of everything good and deserving of all that I desired. It took me 2 more to find the love of my life, the man who I'd dreamed of for so many years before, who loved me for exactly who I was, am and will be. It wasn't always easy.
The first man who ever broke my heart was my biological father – father being hardly the right word. It wasn't when he hit my mother as I sat witness as a 2 year old or that he killed our dog feeding it poison in front of me. No, my heart wasn't broken for another 5 years when he was well and truly gone from my life, when I was old enough to fully understand.
I found a note scribbled in blue ink that he gave to my mother at some point during those in between years – a note that said "I don't want her". So simply stated and yet it was a sentiment that would live in my subconscious for years before I understood where it came from, how it got planted so firmly in my soul. How those words ruled my belief of being unworthy – unworthy of people staying with me, unworthy of being noticed, unworthy of being loved.
I was unworthy of being loved.
Was this true? Not at all. My life was full of people who loved me and yet lodged in the darkest parts of my being I was living from a place of fear – fear that if my biological father could walk out then why not everyone else, it would only be a matter of time.
And so I pushed instead.
In those 35 years before I reconciled those words – saw them for only what they were rather than the story I formed around them – I was living from a state of fear not a place of love. My fear made me test everyone who ever held meaning to me and if they stayed the first time, or first dozen times I'd keep pushing until the truth I so believed came true – after all, everyone has their breaking points.
I believed in something so strongly that I made it come true over and over and over again.
Sure, there were lovers in my life long before my husband walked in, one innocent young love before I even understood what love meant. The one that lasted for years, a constant push and pull – him being the perfect mirror for all the things I had yet to learn, him seeing my beauty and grace long before I could ever recognize it on my own. An illicit affair that was as close to true love as it could be given the circumstances, the fleeting time together and the promise of it never being real.
That was the last one before the big one. I recall the words that man left me with, the ones I still carry close to my heart – as I revealed my deepest secrets to him in the corners of dimly lit bars and twisted hotel room sheets he simply said "let yourself be loved".
Let yourself be loved.
And so I replaced those words my 7 year old self read to words heard more clearly from a man that loved my 33 year old self. "I don't want her" became "let yourself be loved" and it changed my world forever.
I fell in love, first with myself and those closest to me and in time to a beautiful man who got to see the real me, to fall in love with me and to love me.
I let myself be loved.


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Fours Head round up
At the Fours Head and Veteran Fours Head this weekend, Upper Thames crews had some decent results.
At the main event on Saturday, the fastest UTRC time was clocked by the IM1 4x of Tom Carter, Mike, Nagi, Jake Davidson and Will Hoodless, a combination that finished in 18.50 and 20th place overall, placing them second of twenty nine entries in that category. Considering the boat contained two novice scullers the result was very creditable, and bodes well for the development of a Senior Quad in the coming months.
The second ranked club boat was an IM1 4- that clocked 19.38, third of thirty one entries. An IM2 4+ finished in 19.45, fourth of thirty eight crews in the category. All of these crews show considerable promise at this early stage in the rowing year.
Coach Justin Sutherland said, "Overall, I am very pleased with the results we had today. Our preparation has been below par, so frankly I am pleasantly surprised by our rankings. These are probably our best results ever at the Fours Head when taken as a whole."
On Sunday the club won two pennants in the Veteran's Head. The first was in a composite 4x with Star and Peterborough that finished 30 seconds ahead of the second placed boat. The club's D4+ also ran out winners among eight competing crews on the course between Chiswick and Hammersmith pier, which was shortened due to treacherous conditions beyond Hammersmith Bridge.


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Title: The Bird
in Bones anthology
Series: Gothika #2
Author: Eli Easton
Genre: MM Romance/Historical
My Rating:
Colin Hastings is sent to Jamaica in 1870 to save his father's sugar cane plantation. If he succeeds, he can marry his fiancée back in London and take his place in proper English society. But Colin finds more than he bargained for on the island. His curiosity about Obeah, the native folk magic, leads him to agree to a dangerous ritual where he is offered his heart's most secret desire—one he's kept deeply buried all his life. What happens when a proper English gentleman has his true sensual nature revealed and freed by the Obeah spirits?
My Review
The story is set in Jamaica, in 1870. Colin Hastings, an English nobleman is sent to his father's sugarcane plantation to fix some managerial problems. Colin is get immediately fascinated by the native atmosphere, people, and especially by the forbidden Obeah religion practiced there. When Tiyah, a native Obeah priestess offers him a life of passion, his heart's most secret desire, he agrees to participate in an Obeah ritual.
What if Tiyah could really do what she said? What fool, when offered one chance to rub the genie's lamp, refused? I was not that man.
Eli Easton's diversity in writing always amazes me. Whatever genre she touches, she makes something spectacular of it. This story is no different: the writing, the structure, the atmosphere, the characters – all brilliantly done.
He grasped my upper arms, pulling me even closer. At that welcome, I felt a hot rush of lust and a heavy ache of affection in my chest. The feelings were so sharp and so sweet that the moment felt worth anything—any price, any punishment, even my immortal soul.
Highly recommended!


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What to Expect (The Schedule)
In an attempt to stay organised I have devised a weekly schedule, where I hope some consistency will follow in terms of weekly posts. My aim is to post approximately 4-5 posts a week however; due to circumstances beyond my control (be it health-related or an extremely hectic week etc…) these may be less -in such moments; I hope you can can show some understanding and bear with me until I get back on track of things. Other times; if I am feeling generous, you may just see an additional post here and there -you have been warned!
For the time being here is my proposed timetable (Please note that the below schedule will roll out in an alternating manner):
Monday's Meandering Muse
Posted fortnightly; here I will share with you my thoughts and views on life as I see it and any other random musings with a yikici twist.
Tuesday's Triptych Tapestry
Posted fortnightly (I will review this in a few weeks; depending on response, I may change its frequency); this will be my challenge to you! Over the weeks I have taken part in various exciting flash fiction challenges and now I want to send the challenges your way.
Being an artist at heart; I have decided my triptych prompts will be based with an art theme running through it. The prompts will have three parts to it:
- Painting/Photography by an Artist
- Random lines of Poetry by Poets
- An Art Movement/Writing Genre
I will endeavour to select the above through the methods used by surrealist automatism (this will involve selecting imagery by opening books/webpages in a random manner). You can choose any of the given prompts -or if you are brave and up to a challenge then use all three prompts! The choice is yours. Word count will be limited to 500-1000 (if it is slightly less or more I will not quibble).
If there are artists who feel inspired to take part with imagery or any poets who want to enter with poems -you too can join in -hey why not make it a mixed media piece! 😀
Please ensure you provide the link to your entry in the comments of the appropriate post or allow for a pingback so we can track your entry for reading as well as for collating in the next Flash Fiction Challenge.
Whimsical Wednesday Writings
Will be posted fortnightly (currently on course to start within three months); this will be an interactive/collaborative, choose your own story-type segment where we all will hopefully create a tale to share with all. If you are interested and would like to take part or provide some insight please contact me by dropping me a line.
Thursday's Topical Tête-à-Tête
Posted fortnightly; here -as the title suggests, we (guest bloggers and I) will discuss topical events as we see it. If you want to be one of the topical guest bloggers please give me a shout via the contact page.
Frivolous Fun Friday
Posted fortnightly; here you will find lighthearted posts where the topics may range from reviews I have carried out to what my pet hates are or random silliness (depending on my mood) -above all Friday is a day on just chilling and having fun.
Saturday's Showcase Sketches
Posted weekly/fortnightly; here I will 'showcase' my works -be it written, painted, photographed or just sketched ideas. -Well a girl has to have some 'me' time!
Savvy Sunday Salutations
Posted weekly/fortnightly; here I will invite guest bloggers to share a post or two with us and on some Sunday's I will pay homage to Artists, Authors, Actors I admire etc… If you want to be one of the savvy guest bloggers please contact me via the contact page.
4 Responses to "What to Expect (The Schedule)"
[…] the land of Zzzzzzz's I wanted to let you know I have put together the schedule for the blog; What to Expect (The Schedule) -I'd be interested to hear what you think of what I have come up with and if you can envision […]
[…] Sunday Salutations: Here we are at the end of week ones' newly structured schedule (I hope you are enjoying the change and its developments); I wanted to start of Savvy Sunday […]
[…] rules are quite simply this: Being an artist at heart; I have decided my triptych prompts will be based […]
[…] rules are quite simply this: Being an artist at heart; I have decided my triptych prompts will be based […]


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Show your support - make a donation
Show your support today by making a tax-deductible deduction to Northern California Codependents Anonymous!
What happens with your donation?
With your help, we have been able to send three delegates per year from our Northern California Region to the annual CoDA Service Conference. We reimburse them for their air transportation, lodging, and food for 5 days. They are your voice in the group conscience of CoDA-as-a-Whole. If you have any questions, please contact us. We will be happy to share our experience, strength, and hope with you.
Suggested 7th Tradition Donations
CoDA Regional & World Fellowship Services are funded by meeting contributions in excess of prudent reserves. We suggest the following distribution:
60% - to your Local Community Service Group
30% - to the Northern California CoDA
10% - to CoDA World Fellowship
Send by U.S. Mail
Print and Mail the 7th Tradition Contribution donation form <click here>
Mail to: Northern California CoDA
1800 21st St. PMB #230,
Sacramento, CA 95811-6812
NorCal Regional Communities
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Recovery is Service. Service is Recovery
CoDA recovery encourages CoDA service - reaching out to share your experience, strength and hope with others.
Make a Donation Today!
Contact us with questions about CoDA. Please remember we are an all-volunteer organization.


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Cyprus has been known as the 'island of love' since Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love, arose from the foaming waves that lap the shores of Paphos. Today, millions of people visit the island to enjoy romantic escapes with the special person in their life.
To find you the most romantic activities, we surveyed our customers who've recently been to Cyprus to make sure you have as good a time as they did. Here are their 9 top rated things to do to guarantee romance whilst you're on the island:
- Romantic Bike Rides Overlooking the Sea
Cycling may not be the first thing that springs to mind when thinking of romance, but whilst on the beautiful island of Cyprus, it's one of our customers' favourite things to do as a couple Cycle through mountains in the pleasant Mediterranean climate until you find the perfect picnic spot, taking in the stunning surroundings of the island whilst spending special moments with each other. Wheelie Cyprus and Bikin'Cyprus Adventures offer plenty of cycling activities to suit your needs, whether you're looking to hire road bikes or mountain bikes for self-guided routes, or you're after an expert to guide to along the way.
If you're a couple that seeks adrenaline-filled activities, enter the Cyprus Sunshine Cup to add a little competition to your trip.
How much is it?
Prices vary depending on the package you choose. You can find more information here.
Why is it great for couples?
Beautiful scenery, a bit of competition to add to the spark, finished off with celebratory champagne.
- Walking Hand in Hand Along the Coast
Get back to nature and simply walk through the landscapes of Cyprus. Whether that's taking a leisurely walk along the island's many beaches, hiking the Troodos Mountains or trekking through the stony bays and steep hills of Akamas Peninsula, romance doesn't have to be costly.
You're sure to find a walk that suit your preferences at Cyprus Walks. Our customers voted the Baths of Aphrodite as one of their most loved walks; a circular walk following the Aphrodite Trail. With steep climbs and descents, it can be a little challenging, but the sights are definitely worth it. Make sure you wear a sturdy pair of walking boots or durable trainers.
How much is it?
Entry is free of charge. There is also free parking if you need to drive to the location, as it is a 45-60 minute drive from Paphos centre.
Why is it great for couples?
Walking this trail provides you both with the rare opportunity to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and appreciate the beauty of nature. The Baths of Aphrodite are truly spectacular, with glistening waterfalls and clear springs.
- Discover the Island Together Via Segway
If walking or cycling is a little too normal for you, why not hire a Segway to explore the island? Providing you with hours of fun, travelling around on a Segway is something you'll never forget. Hire yours from Segway Station, located in the island's capital city, Nicosia.
How much is it?
A 3 hour Segway tour costs €44 per person and 2 hours cost €32.
Why is it great for couples?
You get to explore the island together in the most unusual way.
- Wine Tasting Amid Picturesque Vineyards
Sipping fine wine under the sun has got to be one of the most relaxing experiences, and with Cyprus' breath-taking surroundings, it has to be one of the most romantic things to do. Our customers highly rated Fikardos Winery; with several vineyards in Paphos, Fikardos has fine-tuned the art of wine-making, offering some of the finest wines in Cyprus.
We've also taken advice from avid enthusiast of the island, Helen of Cyprus Travel Secrets, to find the very best of the best. Visit family-owned Vlassides Winery to not only taste some of the island's best wines, but to also experience a taste of Cypriot culture. Although many of the wines are produced in different locations across the island, the wine-tasting takes place in the Vlassides' family home.
How much is it?
Prices vary. To ensure your wine-tasting experience is everything you and your partner want, contact Vlassides directly to find your perfect package and make a bespoke booking. To speak with the owners themselves, call +357 99441574.
If you'd simply like to find the finest establishments serving local wines with delicious dinners, take a look at the top rated bars and restaurants across Cyprus, as recommended by Whine on the Rocks. If you're a true wine connoisseur, Wines and Tours offer unique wine-tasting holidays consisting of several tours, allowing you to explore even more of the island and its wines.
Why is it great for couples?
Situated in the traditional Troodos village of Koilani in Limassol, you can spend time together amongst the most beautiful scenery. You won't be bombarded by tourists; instead you can enjoy the luxury of an intimate, tranquil setting.
- Beer Tasting in the Hills of Paphos
If wine isn't your thing, why not sample some of the local beers? Located in Paphos, Aphrodite's Rock Brewing Company will please your palette with its assortment of locally brewed beers, including Bavarian Lager, Irish Red Ale and American-Style India Pale Ale. You'll also receive expert advice on food pairing to make your experience even tastier!
How much is it?
Fantastic value for money, five sample beers will cost €5.50. The brewery tour is free to all customers Monday-Friday at 14:00.
Why is it great for couples?
This activity is something a little different,and if you're both lovers of beer, you're guaranteed to have a great time together.
- Authentic Cuisine for Two
During your romantic break away, you'll want to enjoy the local cuisine by candlelight, and what better way to find the perfect place to dine than taking the advice of locals who know and love the food so well? Cyprus Taste Tours offer walking or driving food tours, where you can taste delicious, authentic foods, whilst exploring Cypriot towns and villages. From home-grown fruits and vegetables to flavoursome spices and cheeses, you're sure to give your taste buds a treat.
How much it is?
Each tour has its own cost, but you're likely to pay around €75 per person for a dinner tour. To find a tour that's perfect for you, email the company directly and they'll be happy to help.
Why is it great for couples?
You and your partner can explore the island and its finest restaurants and eateries, whether you want an exciting day time adventure or a romantic, candlelit evening dinner.
For even more local food inspiration, visit for everything from recipes to eateries specialising in breakfasts, mains and desserts.
- Soak up the Sun on a Luxury Boat Trip
Take to the sea on a romantic boat trip where you can unwind and enjoy each other's company in the most beautiful setting. Charter Fishing Cyprus offers various boat trips; set sail for half a day from Latchi to Blue Lagoon, Paphos to Coral Bay or Aphrodite's Rock, or jump on board for a full day heading to Lara Bay, Coral Bay and Akamas Peninsula. Enjoy local cuisine and wines on board, take in the sights and relax under the sun.
If you're a couple that loves luxury, book a tour on a quality catamaran to laze in the sun whilst sailing around the island. Fun Seaker offers luxury tours where you can take advantage of their VIP services on your own private boat.
Our customers highly recommend glass bottom boat rides whilst on holiday in Cyprus, and Latchi Boat Cruises will offer you a relaxing cruise with stunning undersea views. Watch out for shoals of fish swimming through the turquoise waters as you sail across the Akamas coast to the Blue Lagoon Bay.
How much is it?
The glass bottom boat trip costs €20 per person, which includes wine, juice and fruit to enjoy on board.
Why is it great for couples?
Take in the stunning views of the coast and its sea life, whilst sipping wine in the sunshine – it's perfect for a little romance.
- Spend the Day Together Wildlife Watching
Step out into nature and discover the island's wildlife with Cyprus Birding Tours. You'll team up with an experienced birder to take you bird watching, so you'll know exactly what you're looking for – and looking at! If you're experienced at bird watching yourselves, you can ask your birder to find specific species or habitats that you'd like to see, making the trip even more special.
How much is it?
Each tour has a different price. You can choose to go out for half a day, a full day or a few days; simply contact them for a bespoke package and price.
Why is it great for couples?
If you're both lovers of birds, this will be a truly magical activity to experience, and if you're new to bird watching, it's an ideal opportunity to start a new adventure together.
- Learn Something New Together at Museums and Galleries
Visiting local museums and galleries is a great way to get to know a new place, and thanks to our customers' feedback on their holiday to Cyprus, we've found a museum that's perfect if you want to inject some fun into your trip. Archimedes is an educational playground, and not just for children! Lose yourself in a world of interactive science and simulators; fly a hot air balloon, build a bridge and walk over it, and take on the mirror maze. A day at this museum will make you feel like a little kid again.
How much is it?
Tuesday – Friday: €6, Saturday – Sunday €7
Why is it great for couples?
Forget about taking life too seriously, and have some fun with each other. You're guaranteed to leave the place laughing.
With so much to do as a couple in Cyprus, you're sure to find romantic activities that are perfect for you. Be prepared to bring home memories that will last forever and photo albums you can show the grandchildren.


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11.15 SOUL CLAP w/ A-SKI | BRONSON BAR
11.15 SOUL CLAP | BRONSON BAR ° Birthday Reservations: email@example.com (Droppin' all 45's All Night!!) #SoulClapSaturday #BronsonBar #Hollywood #SaturdayNight #Unique74 (Flyer Design: A-SKI)
Hangin' out at BLAZING FUNK | LA
Classic times at #BlazingFunk last Friday!! Hanging out with Big Bro Rich Medina (with his A-Ski Tee "Ready To Fly" edition! Which you can purchase now at http://Unique74mag.com/) & the legendary @smokinvinyl !!! Had a blast running into everybody!! #BlazingFunk #Unique74
Fashion: Unique74 Unlimited + new tees!!
Hey Everybody!! We're proud to introduce my new line of tees and merchandise at our new online store !!http://unique74unlimited.spreadshirt.com/ For every shirt or sweater purchased, make sure you include a selfie wearing it and you will receive a digi unreleased mixtape or a copy of my full length debut "CHANGE THE MOOD". #Unique74
Unique74 Events | LA: WINE KANDY | 3.2 | This Saturday!!
Alright folks..the day is getting super close..the anticipation is high!! Feels good to jam with the Extra Mild Sauce family once again!! Understand, when I do play out..its with only the best of setting and vibe! This Saturday, we encourage you to join us in exploration of dance, sound & vibe as celebrating the birthday of my homeslice Derrick Wize and the zodiac of the mighty mighty PISCES!! I will be jamming with my STONE GROOVE RADIO partner in crime TAILWIND TURNER!! We are also taping segments of my upcoming music video "Summer Touch" and parts of my mini docu. I will also have "Ski Tees" on deck, just hit me up and I make sure you are laced up with the fresh gear. Join us as we spill the wine THIS SATURDAY!! >http://extramildsauce.com/wine-kandy-march-2nd/
JAZZ TONIC w/ SONJA MARIE, MARVSKI & AMY SERRATA | 8.25 >atmosphere revisited
Photography: A-Ski


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Most modern smart phones have a built-in fingerprint sensor. On iOS, this feature is called Touch ID whereas on Android, it is generally referred to as "Fingerprint Authentication". People most commonly use it to unlock their device by simply pressing their finger on the fingerprint sensor. It is a cool technology and as a React-Native… Continue reading
Posts by "Brian Azizi"
How to Setup a Software VPN between your AWS Platform and a Third-Party Corporate Network
Some third-parties only allow you to call their APIs if you are inside their network. This can make life difficult if your application is hosted on AWS. The solution is to create a site-to-site VPN connection between your AWS Virtual Private Cloud (VPC) and the third-party's corporate network. There are two common ways to do… Continue reading


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AMVC8 Gas Gurnace
The Amana brand AMH8 80% AFUE, two-stage convertible, multi-speed gas furnace provides superior two-stage comfort and quiet operation.Find A Contractor Find Rebates For This Product
Notes: Products are given a rating of $,$$ or $$$ relative to their price positioning among other products in the same brand. These price ratings are not meant to compare a product from one brand to a product of another brand. Decibel level (Db) ratings may vary; the data provided here represents either a range of possible Db levels or the lowest rating as tested under different conditions. Efficiency ratings will depend on the matching of outdoor and indoor systems. ACDoctor is not responsible for any errors or omissions in the products database.


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Learn to master the French language with our 8 week Intermediate French Language courses in Auckland in small classes with fun and expert native speaking teachers from France.
This course is intended for those who have completed Beginners and Improvers French courses or lived in France for a while. It consolidates and develops the grammar and material covered in Improvers French and will expand vocabulary and grammar.
You will learn how to communicate in French in everyday situations, through written and oral exercises, role-playing and multimedia in class.
Course Outline: The aim of this course is to further your ability to communicate effectively in French and is suitable for those who have completed Improvers French. Classes are taught in the French language.
Learning Goals: On completion of the course learners will be able to communicate confidently in French in a variety of everyday situations; discuss current affairs and demonstrate an extensive French vocabulary through spoken and written French and conjugate verbs in all French verb tenses.
Free Course Materials: All courses have free French course books and there are no hidden registration fees, membership fees, or contracts etc.
Duration: Each evening course is made of 8 x 1 1/2 hour classes. There are no classes on Public holidays. Courses run the same day and time of the week as its start date for 2 months.
Small Classes: Classes are around 10 students.
Price: $150, includes a free course book, thats less than $19 a class.
French for Intermediates Course Start Dates
|Intermediate French Courses (Level 3)
|Thursday 1 August 6.00-7.30pm
|Refund Policy
We do not provide a refund if you have changed your mind about a particular purchase so we ask that you choose carefully. All payments are final, unless a course is cancelled.


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Good & Evil In The World Of Booze
So I'm sitting here alone in bed looking at my order history via the K&L website (my wife is out at West Side Story) trying to find the name of a bottle I bought a while ago and I get reminded about a wine book I bought some time back called The Battle For Love and Wine, which I actually wrote a review about when I regularly published on our wine blog. This book was very influencial to me in my formative drinking years, but I was thinking that were I to read it again, I believe my attitude towards Alice Feiring would be very different today, mainly because I have done a complete 180 in most of my opinions as of late (I don't know why, but explaining it will get me off track, so let's stick to the point). Searching for it on Amazon, I was curious as to how many people had actually read it and reviewed it, so I went right for the negative reviews. Sure enough, there were a handful of people who believed that Feiring had a valid point in her fears of wine homoginization, but that she was far too black-and-white and solipsistic in her rantings about Parkerization - exactly what I was thinking in retrospect. I remember reading the book as a naive, bright-eyed, young wine clerk who wanted desperately to understand what was cool in the wine world, so I was very much impressed and taken by such a brazen and passionate outrage against New World wine and its scientific approach to vinification. I bought into the evils of Parker much like I bought into the evil of corporations as a college student (not to say that I now feel the opposite) because that's what happens to inexperienced people who can't wait to have an opinion. Now that I'm a bit more grizzled, I have a different view on good and evil in the world of booze, and life for that matter, and it might do some good to lay it all out.
I'm usually kicking around the remnants of past conversations in my head, dwelling on points and contrasting them with similar experiences from various times in my life. This morning, for example, my wife and I discussed the trend of enjoying authentic pizza in the Bay Area (i.e. Una Pizza Napoletana, Zero Zero, Tony's, A16, Delfina, etc.) and how it belongs to the majority of subcultures that eventually break out and become the trendy thing to do. Combine that debate with another conversation I had after work concerning the loss of my political passion to change the world and you end up with the realization that sometimes people and their ideas can get out of control, so we just need to take a breath and focus on what's important in life. In the end, pizza is nothing to be taken too seriously and the world is likely not as bad off as we think sometimes. However, reading the vitriolic comments on SFGate on trivial issues like the pet peeves of restaurant servers doesn't give me too much hope for the prevalence of common sense and understanding. There is simply a need to be right and wrong, cool or uncool, for it or against, and the world of booze is no different.
Alice Feiring believes that science and technology are ruining the soul of wine. If a winemaker uses new oak, reverse osmosis, micro-oxidation, or too much sulfur then they are stamping out the character of the grapes and the terroir of the wine. While I agree with much of her argument, I don't believe that these winemakers are ruining the world - I simply believe that they want to make money by catering to the general palate and that they don't mean anyone harm. Don't get a natural wine geek started on this subject however because they will tell you flat out that a wine that gets high marks from Parker is a sure sign of the devil, bringing an end to traditional winemaking as we know it and the destruction of all vino-diversity. Feiring goes too far however in that she drives towards getting Parker alone in an inteview and telling him off, as if doing so would prove her right and forever vanquish her enemy (the same dillusion a motorist suffers from when he attempts to tailgate the guy who just cut in front of him - "Ha! That'll show him!"). The whiskey world has a similar snobbery that condescends to the drinkers of mass-produced blended malts and glorifies the small microdistillery using only small batch pot stills and 100% organically farmed grains. Johnnie Walker = evil. Old Potrero = good. The mixology folks are just as guilty with their belief that vodka drinks are a bastardization of the genre, blending itself flavorlessly into sugary-sweet Lemon Drops in the name of easy alcohol delivery. In their mind true lovers of the cocktail use only gin, brandy, or whiskey in their libations as they speak to the traditional pre-Prohibition craft of Jerry Thomas.
These battles between opposing mindsets end up being all out wars, and are being fought in books, in blogs, on message boards, and in bars (in fact, if you go back to that link for the SFGate comment field you'll see a fierce battle between the avid Grey Goose defenders and some gin-loving pre-Prohibitionists!). Getting a bit of understanding about booze (or anything of for that matter) usually leads people to a frustrating understanding about the habits of the uniformed, as they completely forget they also once knew nothing. Those who still practice a casual interest get annoyed by the soapbox spouting arrogance of these so-called true afficianados and, in their defensiveness, they lash out in response. If you don't believe me, you only need visit a message board to witness it. "You losers eat at Round Table? Bleh, I only eat quality pizza at Beretta!" "I'll stick to my vodka drinks at home and let all those trendy losers waste their time getting their overpriced, fancy cocktails." These are real comments that I read on the internet everyday! People are so upset with one another and their contrasting opinions! It is pure and utter hatred! Where is all this anger coming from?
Of course I have my opinions and I tend to side with the snobby insider most of the time, however, I don't feel the need to argue vehemently or post outrageous comments somewhere. The truth is: this is a world of tastes and taste is thankfully neither black nor white. From what I've witnessed, it's never the most knowledgable people arguing about semantics, but rather the inexperienced with a chip on their shoulder. That would at least help explain why I have mellowed over time. It's a fine line that you walk between expert and asshole if you choose to explain to a customer why you would never drink California chardonnay or Chivas Regal and this attitude can really turn people off if you're not careful (I was very tired one day and unable to do this little tapdance - the result was one infuriated customer). Not everyone cares about booze as much as I do, so I need to remember that and, as Jack says in Sideways, "If they want to drink Merlot, we're drinking Merlot!" Once you realize how unattractive it is to start delving into to that sort of opinionated schtick, you really just want to avoid it from then on.
I understand how Parker points are leading more and more winemakers to change their style in search of that goldmine of a positive review, but I don't think that Alice has anything to worry about really. There is room in this vast world for Parker's wines and for Feiring's as well. Sure, Marcel Lapierre has recently passed on, but his son will continue to make unsulfured Beaujolais because we are here to drink it. Whiskey lovers - no one is forcing you to drink anything blended. Yes, that corporate umbrella Diageo is continuing to raise their prices, but Ardbeg and Laphroaig just lowered theirs so it balances out. Let's mellow out a bit. Cocktail afficionados - let people drink their vodka and enjoy themselves. We don't need to point out what they're missing or why their drink isn't any good. In fact, I just tasted a chocolate vodka that was so good I plan on buying it for the store (even though it is a bit embarrassing).
-David Driscoll


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Olde Towne St Helens- The Halloween Towne Gathering
Come out on Saturday and join the likes of PDXYAR, the Cloud City Garrison of the 501st Legion, the Mandalorian Mercs and other crews associated with the Portland Pirate Festival for the Halloween Towne Gathering.
Beyond the Halloween flavored fun of this event we will be attempting to break world record for Largest Halloween Gathering. To do so we will have to beat Bloomington, Indiana's 2009 record of 508 people in Halloween Costumes gathered in one place. So, suit up and head for St. Helens!
Registration for the Guinness World Record™ attempt begins at noon with the count will be conducted between 5pm and 7pm.
Where: Olde Towne St. Helens, OR
When: Saturday, October 30
Cost: Free with a canned food donation
Getting there
If you are unable to find parking at the event site, extra parking is located at St. Helens High School & Lewis & Clark Elementary School. Free Park and Ride will be offered from 3pm-9pm to Olde Towne. The stops include St. Helens High parking lot,Lewis & Clark school parking lot and Olde Towne's Court House Plaza.
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CBS to put TV library on the Web
EmptyNEW YORK -- CBS said Thursday that it will put such library TV shows as "Star Trek" and "The Twilight Zone" on the Web through its Audience Network.
The company said it will stream full-length episodes of old titles on a free, ad-supported basis. The shows will be syndicated across the CBS Audience Network, which encompasses more than 300 destinations, including AOL, Microsoft, CNET Networks and Comcast.
In addition to the first three seasons of the original "Star Trek" and the first two seasons of "Twilight Zone," CBS also will initially stream Season 1 of "MacGyver," "Hawaii Five-O" and "Melrose Place." It will add more programs and clips in the coming months.
The shows will be distributed in the "same open, nonexclusive strategy CBS has been using for its content online for the last nine months," the company said.
This week, NBC Universal put old shows on several of its Web sites. That content is syndicated through Hulu, the network's online video joint venture with News Corp., that is distributed through Yahoo, AOL, News Corp.'s MySpace and other Web destinations along with its own stand-alone site.


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The Countdown is On:
Just weeks away, the countdown has started to the formidable and highly anticipated Future Music Festival (FMF) for 2015, the annual summer Australian festival. FMF is produced by Australia's Future Entertainment, the electronic music entertainment company focused on developing domestic artists and musical talent. Future is based in Melbourne and was started by Mark James in 1993. This year FMF will be co-produced by the Mushroom Group, founded by Chairman Michael Gudinski more than forty years ago. As Australia's largest and most successful independent music and entertainment group, founder Gudinski is passionate about taking home grown musicians out to the international market and recognizes that FMF is critical as one of the world's most momentous events.
Why a Music Festival?
Festivals, like the expression of music, are an important part of an urban experience and critical to the young and young at heart. They are also integral to the many performers, bands, genres, and technicians that find a way to market their talents to thousands of people at one time. For many amateur musicians and artists, festivals are a supportive avenue to be seen for the first time, and they bridge the gap between production and performance at little cost. Festivals are also cost effective to the industry since the extensive amount of equipment, transportation requirements, and security is set up for an extended period of time. The participants benefit from the value since they are able to see their latest and favourite talents at one time. The local community and businesses profit from festivals too as hundreds of fans drop in to say hello, eat, drink, and sleep.
Woodstock: Hail to the Outdoor Music Festival
Look way back to Bethel, New York – 1969 – Woodstock, a pivotal moment in music history when artists joined together to celebrate music and peace in one farmer's field. There were more than 500,000 people over three days anticipating 'groovy' performances by Jimi Hendrix, Janis Joplin, Tom Fogerty, Joe Cocker, The Band, Johnny Winter, Blood, Sweat & Tears, and Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young. Unfortunately, The Beatles, Led Zeppelin, The Byrds, Bob Dylan, Chicago, The Moody Blues, Joni Mitchell, and Iron Butterfly plus many more declined to make an appearance.
2006: Future Music Festival, Sydney
Look back to Sydney, Australia – 2006 – Royal Randwick Racecourse, a one day music festival, 6 venues, with more than 20,000 attendees waiting to hear the music of Armin van Buuren, Markus Schulz, Tocadisco, David Guetta, Goodwill, Shamus, and Steve Angello with many more. The first Future Music Festival (FMF) was a formidable birth of the world's largest 'techno' dance festival that headlines the best in electronic music. The following year, FMF beat its own records in outdoor events and entertainment through performances in house, trance, indie, ambient, minimal, and techno music. In 2008, the Chemical Brothers headlined the event that reached more than 100,000 people. Also on the roster were Tracey Thorn, Deadmau5, Robbie Rivera, David Guetta, and Axwell with a ticket price of $89.00. That year a compilation CD was available for the first time.
First Expansion: National
From 2008 until 2011, FMF evolved into a two week travelling event, and expanded to all major Australian cities including Brisbane, Perth, Sydney, Melbourne, and Adelaide drawing the world's best talent in EDM such as Basement Jaxx LIVE, N*E*R*D feat Pharrell Williams LIVE, and Swedish House Mafia and were ready to blaze the music to hungry crowds. The FMF established itself as the future of music festivals for years to come and a mainstay for the best domestic and global artists and performers.
Global Expansion: Future's Future
Even before the 2012 FMF venues hit the road, Future Entertainment announced in December 2012 its latest expansion – Asia. Taking its namesake into the future, the event held in Kuala Lumpur Malaysia, was similar to its Australian sister with mixes of local and international performances, and once again headlined by The Chemical Brothers and other heavyweight performers such as the influential and iconic New Order, The Temper Trap, Flo Rida, The Prodigy, Psy, and Fun.
The 2013 festival themed as the 'Day Of The Dead-Set Awesome' was a huge success. FMF mascot and Ibiza kingpin Sven Vath returned for his fifth run. Headliners in trance, techno, dubstep, house, and EDM like Avicii, The Prodigy, Bloc Party, Dizzee Rascal, Azealia Banks, and K-pop sensation Psy made a second appearance to perform his viral hit 'Gangnam Style'.
In 2014, in spite of bad press and rumors of troubled financials associated with festival owners Future Entertainment, FMF got even bigger. Headlined by Deadmau5, and bringing out chart toppers Macklemore and Ryan Lewis, Markus Schulz, David Guetta, Steve Angello, indie-pop-rockers Phoenix, Drum and Bass group Rudimental, and announcing the addition of Pharell Williams at the last minute.
2015's Future Music Festival
The 2015 FMF, still Aussie's biggest touring festival, with Brett Robinson in the Director's chair, and James Klein, the man responsible for the state-of-the-art sound and light at Miami's Ultra Music Main Stage at the helm, is slated to start on February 28th and back to its birth at Royal Randwick in Sydney. The 2015 FMF schedule includes:
Sat 28 Feb – Royal Randwick Racecourse, Sydney
Sun 1 Mar – Arena Joondalup, Perth
Sat 7 Mar – Brisbane Showgrounds, Brisbane
Sun 8 Mar – Flemington Racecourse, Melbourne
Mon 9 Mar – Adelaide Showground, Adelaide
FMF 2015: Who Is on Board in Australia?
The list of artists on board for the 2015 FMF is a star studded example of some of the most in-demand performers. Veteran performers like The Prodigy will be in attendance along with Die Antwoord, South Africa's outstanding rap-rave artist making a return visit after years of absence. In addition, Animal's Martin Garrix, Nero, London's Example, Afrojack, 2 Chainz, and Canadian Drake, the rap superstar, will finally make an appearance on the heels of the success of albums 'Thank Me Later', 'Take Care', and 'Nothing Was The Same'. Another Canadian, Kiesza, now based in London where her chart topping hit 'Hideaway' hit #1 in the UK in May, will make her first appearance. Then of course there is Avicii, who will debut some of his brand new material off his second album, Stories. Other performers include Klingande, Sigma, Gorgon City, Bassjackers, Blasterjaxx, Carnage, and Yellow Claw. As usual there will be a second round anouncement with more acts joing the festival.
FMF 2015: Who is On Board in Asia?
After its three year run in Kuala, Lumpur, FMF Asia is moving to Singapore in 2015. The two day event, scheduled for March 13th and 14th will be held at the Changi Exhibition Centre. Livescape Group and Future Music Australia, expect more than 50,000 fans to attend. With more than fifty domestic and international performers on the bill, including Avicii, The Prodigy, Afrojack, Chemical Brothers, Flo Rida, and Fatboy Slim, the cross-genre festival will be the biggest festival in the region.


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When in New Haven for the joint Medical Museums Association/American Association for the History of Medicine meeting, I was lucky enough to see, with Michael Sappol and Eva Åhrén, the wonderful exhibition The Critique of Reason: Romantic Art, 1760-1860 at the Yale University Art Gallery. A fabulous and thought provoking exhibition drawing from the rich collections of The Yale Center for British Art, and intending to challenge "the traditional notion of the Romantic artist as a brooding genius given to introversion and fantasy. Instead, the exhibition's eight thematic sections juxtapose arresting works that reveal the Romantics as attentive explorers of their natural and cultural worlds."
Some highlights: (in order, top to bottom): a tempera painting by William Blake of the Madonna and Child from 1825; hand-painted pages from Blake's "America. A Prophecy," 1793; John Martin's "The Deluge," 1834; "A Lion Attacking a Horse," 1762, by George Stubbs; and James Gillray's "The Blood of the Murdered Crying for Vengeance," 1793.


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One night, in a peaceful New England town "like many others," shag-carpet salesman Rod is just sitting down to dinner with his sister and his fiancee when he catches a whiff of something fishy. It could be the food at the seafood restaurant where they are dining, or perhaps something even more potent—"The Well of Horniness." Though never explicitly defined in the play, "the well" alludes to lesbianism—or just vaginas in general—the cavernous source of life and lust.
This noir detective comedy staged like a 1940's radio show opens with a jazzy game-show tune and segues into a brief message from its "sponsors" House of Shag 'n' Stuff and Clams-A-Go-Go, before narrator Andrea Bush sets the scene and introduces Rod (Kelly Hutchison), his waspy, Excedrin-loving fiancee Vicki (Elizabeth Scollan), and his scantily clad, Sapphic sister Georgette (Ann Turiano). When Vicki learns that Georgette is also an alum of the notorious Tridelta Tribads, an alleged sorority better known for stirring up trouble than mixing cocktails, she becomes terrified that Rod will discover her secret lesbian past.
When Rod is otherwise occupied with his carpet business, it doesn't take long for Vicki to fall into Georgette's open arms and legs as they dine on more than just spaghetti at the Vixen's Den Dinner Theater. One jealous lover, a curious under-the-table encounter, and a double Harvey Wallbanger later, a gunshot is fired offstage, Georgette is found dead in the powder room, and madness ensues.
With Georgette out of the picture, "Lady Dick" Garnet McClit must solve this murder mystery and prove Vicki's innocence. McClit, played by Katie Hileman, is a no-nonsense butch detective who, we imagine, likes to drink her whiskey straight. Although her character doesn't interrogate any suspects, and only manages to get her hands on one clue—in fact, she's a pretty shitty detective—she spends a lot of time furiously scribbling in her notepad and puffing on cigarettes.
At just under an hour, Holly Hughes' 1983 play runs start to finish without stopping to take a breath: the whirlwind plot twists, rapid costume and scene changes, and barrage of crude jokes and sexual innuendoes afford the play an old-school, sitcom-like quality. The stage is almost constantly in motion as characters run in and out of scenes and stagehands move props and scenery while the drama continues to unfold. Characters play out the action while the narrator speaks over them, and the old-fashioned sound effects of clinking glasses and rustling newspapers add to the play's manic energy.
Pay special attention to Chloe Mikala, who portrays a myriad of characters. Her comical facial expressions, voices, and physical comedy added an element of absurdity that exploded out of each of her lines, fueling the play's comedic excess. Just about every line in the play is loaded down with countless sexual puns and innuendos that help to breathe hot and heavy life into the play. It's almost overwhelming being bombarded by such a barrage of one-liners, and some come so quickly and often that they hardly had time to land before it was onto the next one.
As a play by a woman, about women, with an all-female cast, there was an expectation for the presence of a strong "lady power" theme. While men are snubbed and there's an important focus on the female sex drive that is so often missing from the conversation, the ending didn't quite reflect the entirety of the play which seems to uphold different ideals. A majority of the plot revolves around Vicki and her hidden desire to be with a woman, despite the taboo nature of such behavior in her small New England town. We rejoice (and laugh) when she falls for woman after woman, and applaud our "damsel in distress" when she casts off her inattentive fiancee.
However, it all appears to be for naught when, like the women who are fortunate enough to get some during the play, the frantic, bodice-ripping buildup doesn't lead to much and, in the end, no one really gets to come. At the end of the play we even see Vicki with Rod's "rod" practically shoved in her face as he leans his overstuffed pants against the daybed where she lies. It would have been nice to see this soon-to-be-unhappy housewife get to be with someone she actually wants to fuck, but it also draws attention to a serious problem that remains for closeted gay women and others who are forced to suppress their sexual feelings. Just as women continue to quell their desires and miss out on the sexual and romantic satisfaction they could be having because, well, patriarchy, Vicki, Georgette, and—to an extent—the audience are deprived of their happy endings as well.


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A thousand years ago, they wreaked havoc across the British Isles, plundering gold, burning villages and ransacking churches. Legends portray the marauding pagans as swift and merciless, prompting the quivering Celtic monks to pray: "Deliver us O Lord, from the fury of the Northmen." Those heathen Vikings are now Christian and peaceful, but they recently went back home with a cache of gold, envied by the world. Norway, a tiny country of 5.2 million people, topped the Winter Olympics in Korea, also creating history with a record haul of 39 medals, including 14 golds. The three highest individual Olympic medal winners are also Norwegian.
What accounts for Norway's astounding success? Strong and well-muscled, Norwegian athletes look like cyborgs from outer space. Nutrition and fitness rank high in this rich country. Viking ancestry probably embeds swiftness in their DNA. There is plenty of snow in Norway. And, top athletes compete in biathlon and cross-country skiing, where they can win multiple medals. But, many of these factors apply to other top competitors like USA, Canada, and Germany that have populations many times larger than Norway.
Norway's success comes from its unique socio-economic values, collective spirit and bottom-up system. Proud of their culture and determined to protect it from outside interference, Norwegians voted not once, but twice, to stay out of the European Union! Team spirit, trust, endurance, egalitarianism and inclusiveness are important, and are enshrined in politics, as in sports. There is zero tolerance for stars, divas and bad behaviour. Former olympic athlete Morten Aasen says, "We are a rich country, but we believe in the socialist way of doing things. Success comes from working hard and being together."
Every citizen is entitled to play sports, so Norway builds sports facilities everywhere, while other countries consecrate malls. Office closes at 4 pm, enabling employees many hours daily to hike, kayak or ski. Children's daily routine includes sports, but in the Norwegian system there are no winners or losers until they are 12. Kids have fun, enjoying rather than competing, and, 93 per cent of them enrol in the 11,000 local sports clubs. This broadens the talent pool. Tom Tvedt, the president of Norway's Olympic Committee says, "Our medals come from athletes who started in local clubs." If they show promise, they are taken to the elite sports centre called "Olympiatoppen". And, then, the other reasons for Norway's medal success kick in: world class facilities, training, coaching, sports science and technological innovation —for example, advanced skis.
Americans lament they fared poorly compared to Norway. American sportsmen follow the money trail created by golf, football, soccer, baseball and basketball. Athletes are insufficiently funded by the state. American figure-skater Adam Rippon, a bronze-medallist in this Olympics, tweeted that during his training "he was so broke" he stole apples from his gym to save money. But, Norway's sports budget is also small, and athletes cannot live on state grants. They all have day time jobs as carpenters, plumbers, farmers and teachers.
High performance comes from motivation fueled by love for their sport. "Norwegians are born with skis on their feet," is a popular saying. Johannes Høsflot Klæbo, the 21-year-old cross-country skier who won three gold medals epitomises this saying and the Norwegian system. His grandfather gifted him his first pair of skis when he was two years old, and, he belongs to the small Byåsen club in interior Norway. His name is unpronounceable, but, this six-feet-tall athlete has movie-star looks. No wonder, Donald Trump wants Norwegians to migrate to the US. They would also bring bushels of Olympic gold medals. A thousand years ago, and, 500 years before Christopher Columbus, Norwegians did land in America. But, they show no desire to migrate to Trumpland now.
Pratap is an author and journalist.


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New Cornwallis Bridge to be installed in KentvillePosted on June 30, 2015
An artistic rendition of what the new bridge will look like shows a balance between function and beauty! More»
An artistic rendition of what the new bridge will look like shows a balance between function and beauty! More»
The Town of Kentville wishes to inform the community that the Centennial Arena will continue to operate at a limited capacity. More»
June 13th-21st 2015
Bike Weeks are hosted annually across Nova Scotia to promote cycling as an affordable, healthy, efficient, and fun part of community life! This year, the Kentville Parks and Recreation Department is celebrating cycling by organizing a week full of free recreational, educational and community activities. More»
Kentville Recreation is working towards making Memorial Pool more physically accessible and safe! The kiddie pool in front of the main pool has been removed to make way for additional parking, including a number of accessible parking spaces. In addition, More»
The only thing that makes doing yoga in the park better, is that it's FREE! More»
Please join us for a community celebration at Oakdene Park in Kentville on June 13th from 11:00-1:00!


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Amaretto Sour
I'm not sure why Emily and I picked an Amaretto Sour to be the cocktail for our 70's themed fondue party, but when we were thinking of cocktail ideas it just seemed like the perfect 70's drink. I decided to make my own sweet and sour mix instead of using the store-bought stuff which was a great decision because these Amaretto Sours were actually very tasty and our guests gave them rave reviews.
Yield: Makes 12 drinks
- 6 lemons
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 cup boiling water
- Amaretto Liquor
- Maraschino cherries
Squeeze the lemons. Use the sugar to make simple syrup by mixing with 1 cup boiling water until the sugar is dissolved. Mix the lemon juice and simple syrup together. Mix 3 parts Amaretto Liquor to 1 part sweet and sour mixture. Serve cold or on ice with a Maraschino cherry.


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IRON MAN 3 - Possilble End-Credits Scene Revealed - SPOILERS
It looks like some information might have leaked out about the post-credits scene in Iron Man 3! One of the funnest parts about going to the Marvel movies is seeing these end credits sequences, and how they will lead into the future Marvel films.
This bit of information comes from a commenter on io9, so we have no confirmation on how accurate this info is, but it definitely sounds like something Marvel would do.
Here's what he said we'd see, and a theory of what it all means....
Apparently the SOS is received at the end of the movie, and is from one Star-Lord (mask and all), so Tony takes off to find him (noting that, with the space armor, he's "ready this time"). Jarvis asks Tony where he's going and Tony simply replies, "I'll be back." This heavily implies to me that Guardians of the Galaxy is probably going to take place before IM3, and will end with Starlord sending out the SOS (presumably Thanos is the source of distress and Starlord is warning them that he's heading towards Earth) and that Avengers 2 is going to begin (or at some point involve) Tony bringing back the Guardians to help with Thanos.
It's a pretty solid theory, and if this turns out to be true, it would be a pretty badass ending. Could you see this happening at the end of Iron Man 3? Are there any other theories you'd like to throw out there?! I'm all ears!


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Running apt-get to update your system, you may encounter the following error when attempting to upgrade RabbitMQ:
W: An error occurred during the signature verification. The repository is not updated and the previous index files will be used. GPG error: http://www.rabbitmq.com testing InRelease: The following signatures couldn't be verified because the public key is not available: NO_PUBKEY 6B73A36E6026DFCA W: Failed to fetch http://www.rabbitmq.com/debian/dists/testing/InRelease W: Some index files failed to download. They have been ignored, or old ones used instead.
RabbitMQ transitioned to a new PGP key as explained in this document. In order for you to successfully update RabbitMQ, you'll need to download and install the new PHP Key. You can accomplish this with the following command, executed as the root user:
$ wget -O- https://www.rabbitmq.com/rabbitmq-release-signing-key.asc | sudo apt-key add - --2016-07-11 16:40:39-- https://www.rabbitmq.com/rabbitmq-release-signing-key.asc Resolving www.rabbitmq.com (www.rabbitmq.com)... 220.127.116.11 Connecting to www.rabbitmq.com (www.rabbitmq.com)|220.127.116.11|:443... connected. HTTP request sent, awaiting response... 200 OK Length: 3187 (3.1K) [text/plain] Saving to: 'STDOUT' 100%[==================================================================================>] 3,187 --.-K/s in 0.005s 2016-07-11 16:40:39 (603 KB/s) - written to stdout [3187/3187] OK $ apt-get update
Your next upgrade should successfully process and install updates for your RabbitMQ installation.