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My Rating Scale (out of 4): 4 - great 3.5 - pretty good, but not great 3 - okay, decent, enjoyable; sometimes slightly good 2.5 - acceptable/adequate/so-so, but definitely lacking (thumb to the side) 2 - lame, but still watchable; mediocre 1.5 - pretty bad, but still has at least a few definite notable positive aspects 1 - terrible, but has a few small glimmering positive points 0.5 - terrible, very few redeeming qualities (hardly worth mentioning) 0 - completely awful, negligible (if any) redeeming qualites
My Rating Scale (out of 4): 4 - great 3.5 - pretty good, but not great 3 - okay, decent, enjoyable; sometimes slightly good 2.5 - acceptable/adequate/so-so, but definitely lacking (thumb to the side) 2 - lame, but still watchable 1.5 - pretty bad, but still has at least a few definite notable positive aspects 1 - terrible, but has a few small glimmering positive points 0.5 - terrible, very little redeeming value (hardly worth mentioning) 0 - completely awful, negligible (if any) redeeming value
Not all of the installments in these series/trilogies have to be good (good in my opinion, of course) as long as most of them are good or at least okay.
Please note that I'm only posting the first of each series to represent the entire series. You are more than welcome to comment.
So, here is my ranking of Pixar's films from best to worst (and again, Pixar's worst film is still an okay film).
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How to Train Your Dragon 2 (2014)
Not as good as the first, but still a worthy sequel
My Rating: ***1/2 (out of ****)
I missed the theatrical release of the first How to Train Your Dragon film in 2010, but I eventually saw it on DVD, and I loved it. It has since become one of my favorite animated films, and one of my all-time favorite films in general, and, in my opinion, it is a completely flawless film. So, naturally, I was a bit apprehensive when I found out that they were going to make a sequel. Not so surprisingly, I didn't think How to Train Your Dragon 2 was as good as its predecessor, but it is still a good movie.
The film is set five years after the events of the first film. Instead of killing dragons, the Vikings of Berk now welcome dragons into their village. The chief, Stoick the Vast, plans to retire soon and have his son, Hiccup (now twenty years old), take his place as chief, and even Hiccup's girlfriend, Astrid, thinks he has great potential for the job. Hiccup, however, prefers flying around with his dragon Toothless and mapping new lands, and is rather averse to his father's wishes. One day while out exploring, Hiccup comes across a group of dragon catchers, who work for an evil warlord, Drago, who wants to assemble a dragon army. Hiccup, against his fathers orders, sets off to try and peacefully reason with Drago, but is waylaid by the mysterious Dragon Rider, Valka (voiced by Cate Blanchett), who turns out to be Hiccup's thought-to-be-long-dead mother.
How to Train Your Dragon 2 is, for the most part, an example of a sequel done right. It further develops and expands upon its universe and underlying themes, and it actually takes the story in a new direction rather than essentially repeating that of the first film. Also, while it's still fun, endearing, and family-friendly like the first film, it's also darker and more mature, and a bit more complex. It doesn't shy away from some dark themes, such as war and death, and it doesn't have that feeling that everything is inevitably going turn out alright in the end. There are even few good twists in the film's third act (which I found to be the most emotionally powerful part of the film).
The first HTTYD film was a simple and straightforward but extremely touching story about friendship, loyalty, acceptance, and family. Its emotional core consisted of the relationship between Hiccup and Toothless. This relationship is still crucial to the story in HTTYD 2, but it takes a back seat until the film's third act. The primary core of this film consists of a couple different elements. One of them is the reuniting of Hiccup's family. The other, more important element is the coming of age element. Yes, more than anything else, HTTYD 2 is a coming of age film for Hiccup.
The animation in this film, as expected, is spectacular. The characters, dragons, and scenery are excellently designed and visually pleasing, and the flying and aerial battle scenes are very good as well. John Powell, who composed the fantastic soundtrack for the first film, has returned and composed it for this film as well, and he still did a very good job. The soundtrack even contains a very good song that ais worth mentioning: 'Where No One Goes'. Also, the voice acting is very well done, especially Jay Baruchel as Hiccup.
Unfortunately, while I thought the first film was flawless, I cannot say the same about this film. This film has some pacing and plotting issues, a few contrived moments, a one-dimensional villain, and some underdeveloped supporting characters (the main characters are well developed, though, especially Hiccup). Additionally, the film is a bit weaker than the first film in terms of comedy, and a few of the comedic moments fall flat. Nonetheless, the film does have several humorous moments that do work.
Despite its slightly messy pacing and plotting, How to Train Your Dragon 2 is, in my opinion, a good sequel, and a good film for anybody of any age, and I'm glad I got to see it in the theater (twice and I actually liked it a little better the second time). It is emotional, heartfelt, and humorous in areas, with some strong messages about family, friendship, forgiveness, loyalty, coming of age, and living to one's potential. Kids will enjoy it as long as they can handle some of the darker and more mature content. There is also plenty of content in the film for adults to enjoy. HTTYD 2 is one of my favorite films of the year so far, and it may very well end up being my favorite animated film of 2014 if nothing else, I hope it receives a nomination for Best Animated Feature.
Frozen (2013)
Overrated, but good nonetheless
My Rating: ***1/2 (out of ****)
Frozen opens up with rhythmic chanting through the Disney and WDAS logos and the opening title. This is immediately followed by a scene involving a group of ice harvesters slicing ice from a frozen lake and singing about ice, fear, and frozen hearts. This opening sets the right tone and foreshadows some of the film's underlying themes. It also has something of an ambitious feel to it, as if this film were daring to aim for the level of Beauty and the Beast and some of Disney's other best films. In my opinion, Frozen is not as good as these films, and it is not a masterpiece by any means; and frankly I think it's overrated. But I still found it to be a good movie.
Frozen is the story of sisters Anna and Elsa, the princesses of Arendelle. Elsa has magical powers to create ice and snow. These sisters were very close when they were little, until an incident where Elsa almost kills her younger sister with her powers. Their parents take Anna to some trolls who save her and erase her memories of Elsa's powers. After this, the sisters are separated and grow apart over the years. Years later, their parents die at sea, and three years after this, Elsa reaches the age at which she can become Queen. On coronation day, Anna meets Hans, a prince of another kingdom. She falls in love with him and wants to get engaged that same day. In the ensuing argument with Elsa, Elsa inadvertently releases her powers. She then flees, unintentionally leaving the kingdom in a magically induced winter. Anna goes after her, along the way acquiring the help of an ice harvester, Kristoff, and his reindeer, Sven.
Despite the immense hype surrounding this film, some negative reviewers have claimed that the film is shallow, simplistic, messy, and empty. In my opinion, however, not only is it not, but it's also heavy with subtleties, symbolism, and subtext; and I found it to be relatable and thought provoking to a considerable degree. I will admit that the storyline itself is fairly simple and predictable. But overall, I found the story to be decent and effective, with some valuable morals including, but not limited to, the true meaning of love, overcoming one's fears, and accepting people for who they are.
The primary factor that makes the story work is the characters. The relationship between Anna and Elsa is what constitutes the film's emotional core. I was able to relate to both both of these characters, and Kristoff, to some degree. The animators really took the time to craft these three characters, giving them well-rounded, well-nuanced personalities, genuine emotional depth, and excellent physical appearances; not to mention the superlative voice performances by the cast. The animators even paid excellent attention to all of their mannerisms, tics, facial expression, and other details (even very small ones). These three characters felt to me like real people, and not two dimensional stereotypes.
Another strength of the film is the music. Christophe Beck did a good job composing the score; and Robert and Kristen Anderson-Lopez did a good job writing the songs, my favorites of which are "For the First Time in Forever," "Let It Go," "Do You Want to Build a Snowman," and "Frozen Heart." The songs are not excellent, but they are pretty good, and they help develop the characters and move the story along pretty well.
Some modern filmmakers, especially Michael Bay, could really learn a thing or two from movies like Frozen. I cannot deny that the animation in Frozen is very good, and the film would not have worked without it. Fortunately, however, directors Chris Buck and Jennifer Lee actually care about other things as well: character development, relationships, heart, storytelling, and so forth. The film actually has a warm, genuine heart of its own under all of that digital snow and ice. Also, instead of just serving as a flashy distraction, the animation is actually used to service the script (not the other way around).
Now, again, I honestly think the film is good, but there is still a lot of room for improvement. In addition to myriad missed opportunities, this film has its flaws. I found the film's second act to be a bit insipid and a little too heavy in comedy. Sure, it was funny, but it occasionally upset the comedy/drama balance, thereby preventing the second act from having the same emotional punch that the first and third acts have. Also, I felt that the story was slightly rushed and compressed. In fact, the film contains enough material for a TV miniseries. The film is solid and coherent as it is, but I still think a slightly longer running length would have done it a lot of good. Oh, and the villain is pretty weak - contrived and paper-thin (yes, there is a villain, but he is secondary to the primary conflict).
Personally I think Frozen is the best of the five Disney Revival films so far, beating out Tangled by a whisker. Disney has successfully moved into the 21st century. For the most part, they have succeeded in combining their older elements with modern ones.
Frozen is now the highest grossing animated film to date. At the same time, it's also receiving the harsh backlash that films this successful often receive. I personally think Frozen is overrated, but it's still good charming, heartfelt, humorous, emotional, and overall entertaining - and it's one of my favorite films of 2013. Disney may not have the charisma they used to have, but at least they still know how to make a good movie.
For more reviews, and my full review of Frozen (what you have just read is a truncated version of it): visit my blog: http://robertsreliablereviews.blogspot.com/
12 Years a Slave (2013)
Powerful and harrowing
Alright, imagine if you are living an ordinary day; and then the next suddenly you find your life torn away from you, and you are thrown into a different life, full of misery, despair, oppression, and brutality, possibly for many years. Well, this is exactly what happened to Solomon Northup, a free black man who, in 1841, was kidnapped, beaten, and sold into slavery. And he remained in slavery for twelve years, until he has rescued in 1853 from a plantation he was working on in Louisiana. In fact, Northup only one of the numerous people to whom this actually happened, but he was one of the only ones who regained their freedom.
Shortly after regaining his freedom, he published his story in a book titled 12 Years a Slave, which I read prior to seeing the film, and which director Steve McQueen has now adapted into said film, with the same title. Many reviewers have already summarized essentially how I personally feel about this film, so I apologize if this review feels redundant to you readers. Rather than just trying to grab money and capitalize on the market, McQueen brings to the screen an honest, accurate portrayal of the harsh conditions and life of slavery. And it old through the eyes of a man who was not born and raised as a slave, but a free end educated man who ended up having experience in both the slave and free worlds. As for the cruelty and brutality, the film doesn't tone any of it down. In fact, some scenes were difficult to watch, they were so disturbing. This film actually allowed me, to a considerable extent, to experience a bit of antebellum Southern United States slavery as it actually was. IT could also be argued that the film offers a strong view of how cruel and evil humans can be, and have been at times in the past.
The performances in this film are excellent. The script doesn't give Northup much "development," but Chiwetel Ejiofor gives his character depth and humanity through his powerful, superlative performance. He reached out grabbed by emotions strongly, pulling me into his experiences, from a free man, to his abduction, and through his experience as a slave, during which he kept the fact of his freedom mostly silent but nevertheless remained determined to someday get it back. I especially liked the way he conveyed so much emotion though facial expressions, and especially through his eyes. I predict an Oscar nomination for Ejiofor.
All of the other performances were highly commendable as well. Not all of the white people portrayed in the film, however, are cruel. A counter example is William Ford (Benedict Cumberbatch). Cumberbatch's character in the film is a 180 turn around from his performance as the evil and menacing Khan in Star Trek Into Darkness. His character, Ford, while blinded by the social and cultural mores of the antebellum South, treats Northup with unexpected kindness (and I look forward to future performances by Cumberbatch). Another such counterexample to the common white cruelty of the time is Bass (Brad Pitt), who eventually helps Northup to escape. As for the not-so-kind people, there are two who reflect the general beliefs and unpleasantness of many southern whites. They are Edwin Epps (Michael Fassbender), a plantation owner and one of Northup's owners, and John Tibeats (Paul Dano), a worker for Ford. And yes, Fassbender and Dano's performed well.
While scenery is certainly not the primary draw of the film, I want to give a thumbs up for the film's cinematography and visual aspects, and Hans Zimmer's music score, which helped enhance the experience. As for the screenplay, John Ridley did a good job adapting the book into a screenplay. He did make a few minor tweaks and condensed the story a bit - in fact, there are one or two particular scenes that I think should have been included in the film, and I think that they would have made the film even better - but other than that the film is true to the book and the events.
If I were to criticize anything about the film, it would be that I really think that the feeling of twelve years passing, while effective, should have been stronger. In fact, while I liked the film and the way everything was handled in it, I felt that everything could still have been stronger - more intense, more vivid, more horrifying, more suspenseful, more gut-wrenching, more emotionally powerful, etc. But again, all of these aspects, and more, were still pretty strong in the film.
So, overall, 12 Years a Slave wasn't great like I wanted it to be, but it was good, and one of the best films of 2013; and it is an experience that I will not be forgetting anytime soon. Solomon Northup himself would have been proud of this film.
My Rating: ***1/2 (out of ****)
Pacific Rim (2013)
Solid summer entertainment
My Rating: *** (out of ****)
Of all the movies that I planned on seeing this summer, I was looking forward most to Guillermo Del Toro's Pacific Rim. Unfortunately, it wasn't nearly as great as I was hoping for, but I did find it reasonably entertaining as a summer movie, with some old- school action and camp, combined with a few elements of modern-day big-budget blockbusters. Overall, I found it to be decent entertainment in essentially the same category as movies like Independence Day and Twister.
The story is simple. Monstrous aliens, called kaiju, come from a portal in a rift deep in the Pacific Ocean. The film opens up with a prologue that explains this, and how giant robots, called jaegers, were developed to fight the kaiju. The film's protagonist, Raleigh Becket (Charlie Hunnam), is an ex-jaeger pilot whose brother was killed in combat. But now Marshal Stacker Pentecost (Idris Elba) comes along and pulls Raleigh back into duty. Eventually, Raliegh ends up being teamed up with Mako Mori (Rinko Kikuchi) to operate a particular jaeger.
There is nothing original about Pacific Rim. The story is simple and pure formula. Even the incredible action scenes are the sorts of things we've seen before in countless sci-fi blockbusters. But the familiar elements are delivered with sufficient expertise to make an enjoyable movie experience.
This film has several similarities to Independence Day (which I love, by the way), such as hostile extra-terrestrials, apocalyptic disaster, a far-fetched plot, large-scale action, a top-secret base, a motivational speech by one of the characters, and even a glimpse into the aliens' "realm" towards the end of the film. It even felt as if the film were trying to be another Independence Day (or ID4, if you may) in terms of things like plot, dialogue, wit, and comic relief. Unfortunately, it didn't quite hit the mark (for example, some of the dialogue and comic relief just ended up being dumb and lackluster), and it lacks the charm, heart, sense of wonder, and overall thrill, among other things, that make Independence Day so great for me. But I'm not saying that Pacific Rim is completely devoid of these; they're just of a lesser magnitude than in ID4.
Not to mention that this film has a few pacing issues, which ID4 did not have, and some of the camera work is a bit too up-close for my taste. But again, these things did not ruin the film for me. Also, ID4 had an excellent and charismatic music score composed by David Arnold. Pacific Rim's score is nowhere near as good as that of ID4, and it's certainly not charismatic, but I found it enjoyable, especially one leitmotif in particular.
The highlights of the movie are, as you may have guessed, the action scenes and special effects. Pacific Rim makes excellent use of the big screen and quality sound systems. Like I said, these are the sorts of things we've seen before in these types of movies, but does that spoil the film? Absolutely not! The action scenes and effects are presented very well. And there are some quite incredible, even memorable, screenshots. The kaiju and jaegers are excellently designed, and with great detail. And just seeing them get out there and pound on each other is quite exciting, to say the least.
Thankfully, however, it doesn't succumb to the mediocrity and imbecility of some modern-day movies of this kind, such as Battleship and the Transformers sequels. It actually has some heart to spare. While Guillermo del Toro spent a lot of effort and focus on the action and effects and not so much on a good story, he actually kept the story, character, and relationship elements, and the acting, within acceptable boundaries. The characters are a bit underdeveloped; they never quite rise up to being full three-dimensional characters, and the development that they do receive is pretty much by-the-numbers. Nonetheless, the film does have a decent, solid human element that makes it all work. In fact, I was able to have a decent emotional attachment to Raleigh throughout the film; and Charlie Hunnam's performance, while not stellar by any means, is solid.
Almost as if to emphasize the human element, there are actually people up in those robots; it's not just a plain robot vs. monster scenario. In addition, a neural connection shared by the jaeger drivers actually adds an interesting dimension to the film's relationship aspect. The drivers actually have access to each other's memories. In fact, this actually expands upon the theme of human connection and healing trauma within the relationship between Raleigh and Mako. This neural connection concept, like several other things in this film, is underdeveloped, but still interesting for what it's worth. And speaking of Raliegh and Mako, I also liked the relationship between them; they have decent chemistry, and are believable as friends, and possibly future lovers. So yes, the film does have some enjoyable character moments. And while this film may be one to see primarily for the action, it does have its share of moments emotional moments, such as a flashback scene involving Pentecost stepping out of a Jaeger and removing his helmet.
Pacific Rim was slightly disappointing for me, and it didn't live up to its potential, but I still found it to be decent and enjoyable. Again, it consists of some old-school action and camp and a little Independence Day spirit, combined with a few elements of modern-day big- budget blockbusters. And I'm glad I saw it on the big screen. It will never be Independence Day, but it's still a decent summer blockbuster. And it's not pretending to be anything more. It knows what it wants to be, and while it doesn't entirely succeed at it, it does a respectable job.
After Earth (2013)
After Earth
I have to say, as much as I like M. Night Shyamalan, I was unsure as to whether or not he would get any directing jobs after his failure of that terrible Last Airbender movie. But, despite the negative reviews that After Earth has been receiving, I decided to give Shyamalan another chance and go see it. It does suffer from several flaws, not the least of which are weak acting and some uneven pacing among other things, but there were some things I liked and will remember about it. And if you ask me, it's definitely a step back in the right direction for Shyamalan.
It takes place a millennium after humanity was forced to leave Earth and settle on a distant planet. Katai (Jaden Smith) wants to become a soldier like his father, General Cypher Raige (Will Smith), but he fails his test for cadet promotion. He and his father have an estranged relationship; they are obviously emotionally distant from each other, and they even maintain something of a military-like relationship and behavior even at home. Eventually, he and his father are on a ship, which is damaged in an asteroid storm and crash lands on Earth, the only survivors being Cypher and Katai. Since the humans have left, the living organisms of Earth have evolved into dangerous, lethal forms. Cypher's legs having been broken in the crash, Katai must travel 100 kilometers across this dangerous terrain to where the tail of the ship is in order to retrieve a beacon.
So yes, After Earth is a futuristic science-fiction film, but it has a morality tale at its core. It explores themes of fear, courage, coming of age, and the father-son relationship, and it even contains an ecological message. It also has good visual effects, and a decent music score. This is definitely a different type of film for Shyamalan; it didn't feel much like a Shyamalan film. However, this film does have some unique and interesting aspects about it. And it even has a family relationship story (again, the father-son relationship).
The film's main issues, however, have nothing to do with any reliance, if any, upon the effects. In fact, if you ask me, it tries to truly focus on the characters, their relationship, and their struggles. But it stumbles. It suffers from some uneven pacing and storytelling and some weak dialogue, a few lines of which are unintentionally funny, and its level of intensity and emotion wavers throughout. There were parts of the movie in which I felt some relatively strong emotion, intensity, and even suspense. But other parts of the film came up short on it and weren't as emotional, suspenseful, intense, or scary as they should have been, and instead ended up feeling a bit too dry and empty.
Another thing I thought the movie suffered from was its handling of its back-stories and character development. These should have been fleshed out and explored more, and several things about it could have been interesting and could even have contributed more to the story, emotionally. Unfortunately, the film didn't go into this as much as it should have, and instead it went a little over the top with scenes of Katai out in the wild (a few of these particular scenes did feel a bit like unnecessary "filler").
Another major issue is the acting. If you ask me, I think it's a bit obvious that Jaden Smith only got the role because he is Will Smith's son. I found him tolerable and mostly effective, but his acting is wooden. Will Smith's acting is decent and effective, but even his acting is a bit stiff.
However, the film does make an effort, and while it does come up short on several aspects, I would say that it tries, and it doesn't completely fail. Overall, I didn't much like the film, but I did find it a bit entertaining, and I felt that the effort, themes, and ideas behind it definitely showed through. Now, again, I didn't think the film was great; I just thought it was adequate, or so-so; but I'm still a bit glad that I saw it. And again, it's step back in the right direction for Shyamalan, in my opinion; maybe there's still hope for him after all. My time and money weren't completely worth the experience, but they weren't wasted either.
My Rating: **1/2 (out of ****)
My film review blog: http://robertsreliablereviews.blogspot.com/
Epic (2013)
Hardly epic, but good
My Rating: ***1/2 (out of ****)
The way things a currently looking, this might very well not be a Pixar year. A much as I might enjoy Monsters University and possibly Planes, they may very well not be my favorite animated films of the year, and they probably won't be. The Croods is already my favorite animated film of the year, and this movie, Epic, in my opinion, is also pretty good.
The main protagonist of the film is Mary Katherine, or M. K., a likable (and cute) teenage girl who, after her mother's death, goes to live with her eccentric and reclusive father. Her father believes that there is a miniature world of magical little people and creatures that live in the forest, and of course other people, including M. K., don't believe him. However, she soon magically shrunken and discovers this little world, which she must save.
And so on. I admit, the movie is not very epic; it is a bit generic and has just about every cliché possible: good vs. evil, balance of nature, dysfunctional parent/child relationship, etc etc. The film resembles a number of other films, such as FernGully, Avatar, and Honey I Shrunk the Kids, among others. One of the main characters, the Nod, even resembles Flynn Rider from Tangled pretty strongly (but this wasn't a problem for me). However, I disagree with everyone who is calling it charmless, forgettable, too reliant on visuals, and weak in terms of character, plot, heart, etc. That's right, I actually enjoyed it.
I actually thought the movie was handled fairly well and has a decent, solid, enjoyable, well- paced plot. The film started out a bit slow, but I started to get more interested as trouble started brewing in the miniature forest world and then M. K. gets shrunken; from then on the movie was much better, and I got interested and emotionally involved in the story. The film also has likable characters and relationships, and good voice performances by Amanda Seyfried, Josh Hutcherson, Colin Farrell, Beyonce Knowles, and the rest of the cast. It even had some good humorous parts, including a pair of mollusks and a three-legged dog.
The best part of the film is the animation; dazzling, lively, meticulously detailed, and it helps bring everything to life. Like Avatar, this movie has what I found to be an interesting, immersing, well-designed setting. Also, like Avatar, it has a good, strong ecological message, which I appreciate. It also has heart, charm, and genuine emotion, and additional good moral messages such as friendship, love, bravery, and selflessness.
Bottom line: If you ask me, Epic is hardly epic, but it's good. And it was especially enjoyable for me on the big screen. Kids will certainly love it; and if you are an adult, like me, just let out your inner child and enjoy the film.
For more reviews, visit my review blog: http://robertsreliablereviews.blogspot.com/
The Place Beyond the Pines (2012)
Actions have consequences...
The Place Beyond the Pines opens with a very long tracking shot that follows a motorcycle stunt driver, Luke (Ryan Gosling), across a carnival and into a tent containing the spherical metal stunt cage. This long tracking is an indicator that this is going to be an ambitious, self-aware piece of filmmaking. And that's what it is. Piercing through jumble of other films of the early spring like a high-intensity electromagnetic wave comes The Place Beyond the Pines, a well-written, well-acted, well-directed, emotional, intelligent, suspenseful, multi-layered, thought-provoking film, and, in my opinion, one of the best films of the year so far. It is three-part drama that unfolds over a completely justified running length of nearly two and a half hours.
The first part of the film is about the aforementioned tattooed motorcycle stunt daredevil, Luke, a good-hearted but reckless and troubled man. Ryan Gosling puts on an excellent performance, bringing this character to life. A great portion of his performance is dialogue-free and big on actions and facial expressions. When he does speak, he speaks quietly and deliberately.
Eva Mendes plays Romina, whom Luke had slept with in the past, and is now the mother of his infant son as a result of that fling. She is now with another man, but Luke, determined to provide for her and his son, quits his job as a motorcycle stunt driver and resorts to robbing banks to provide for them. This is a bad decision, obviously, and it leads to even worse decisions.
This eventually leads Luke to cross paths with police officer named Avery Cross (Bradley Cooper). Pretty soon, the first act ends. The second act focuses on Avery, whom Bradley Cooper portrays with an outstanding performance. Avery is an ambitious rookie cop who looks to quickly move up the ranks in the corruption-riddled police department in which he works. The third act of the film takes place fifteen years after the end of the second act, and it focuses on the sons of Luke and Avery, who are now in high school and are haunted by the past sins of their fathers.
I don't like this film as much as, say, The Godfather, but it is pretty far up there; it is bold and innovative, with a strong emphasis on character and plot development; it is a good example of expert storytelling. Also, this film has a very strong personal touch to it; I truly cared about the characters and felt all of the emotions that they felt throughout the course of their experiences love, guilt, emotional torment, embarrassment, stress, etc. As the story progresses, it takes some surprising and sometimes shocking turns, and there is a riveting sense of tension all the way through the film.
This film is great character study, and it really gives us some things to think about. It explores themes including, but not limited to, guilt, justice, revenge, love, and even a father's love for his son. However, there is one theme that stands out above the others explored in the film: consequences. Actions have consequences, the effects of which affect other people and the world, and can even ripple through time and generations. The film emphasizes and illustrates this theme very strongly, and it gives us some good food for thought on the subject.
The movie is excellently filmed, and while the camera work and cinematography is by no means the primary draw of the film, it really enhanced the experience and helped pull me into the film. The music score is also very good. Overall, I can think of very little to criticize about this film. Although, I do have to admit, the third act of the film was slightly less powerful than the previous two, and a little too slow. But I still found it very compelling.
Again, overall, this film is en excellent example of what can result from a great script, great performances, great directing, and lots of heart and emotional punch. This film has one of the strongest and most genuine heartbeats that I have felt in a film in quite a while. I highly recommend this film.
Remember, actions have consequences. Never forget that. Negative actions result in negative consequences. Good actions result in good consequences. For example, Derek Cianfrance put in a great deal of focus and effort into making this film, and the consequence is that he made an emotionally riveting, multi-layered, thought-provoking masterpiece, which has earned high praise from me, and will hopefully at least receive an Oscar nomination.
My rating: **** (out of ****)
The Dark Knight Rises (2012)
The Dark Knight Rises
Of the three Dark Knight movies directed by Christopher Nolan, The Dark Knight rises is the only one I have seen in the theater, an experience I quite enjoyed. Now, to be honest, if I were to just look at this film all on its own and disregard the previous two films, I would only have found it to be decent, or just good at best. It does have some flaws, and it's my least favorite of the three installments. But when I take into account the previous two films, this film becomes immensely entertaining for me.
At the end of The Dark Knight, Bruce Wayne, guised as Batman, took the rap for Harvey Dent's crimes. This film picks up eight years later, where Bruce has since hung up the cape and now stays mainly shut up in his mansion. Meanwhile, Gotham has improved (at least on the surface ). However, a new villain, Bane, comes to town, forcing Bruce back into action despite his tarnished Batman reputation.
I felt that the weakest part of the film was the first forty-five minutes; I found this part of the film to be a bit slow and uneven. But after this, the film got significantly better, and continued to get better and better as the story progressed (with a few twists) until the ending, which I loved. Admittedly the storyline is a bit of a retread of Batman Begins, and there are some frankly big gaps in logic. This film is more dreamlike and less cerebral than the previous two films, and it's a bit too long. Not to mention we don't see much Batman. However, I did feel that this film was a slight step up emotionally from the previous two. And the running length didn't bother me all that much; in fact, I would say that a director's cut would be completely justified.
The actors all put on good performances. There is Christian Bale, of course, who has brought charisma to Bruce Wayne/Batman since the beginning of Nolan's series. The other actors do a good job too. Michael Caine returns as Alfred, who has less screen time in this film than he had before, but is no less powerful. Gary Oldman returns as Commissioner Gordon, and even Morgan Freeman returns as Lucius Fox, who provides Bruce with a new, aerial form of transportation (and yes, it does come in black).
We also have some new characters, all (or at least most) of who make worthy additions to the franchise. There is the badass and utterly terrifying villain, Bane. Tom Hardy pulls off a worthy performance of this masked menace, masterful and merciless. Anne Hathaway and Marion Cottilard play Selina Kyle and Miranda Tate, respectively, the latter of whom with whom Bruce even sleeps; but this doesn't develop into anything more than just a brief, shallow affair; Bruce's romantic interests pretty much ended with Rachel's death in the previous film. I even want to give a thumbs-up to Joseph Gordon Levitt; and we learn something special about his character at the end of the film.
Again, I think the film is just decent, or good at best, on its own, but I love it as a chapter in the overall series (although, again, it is my least favorite film of the trilogy). While I can enjoy Batman Begins and The Dark Knight Rises as stand-alones as well as parts of a series, I feel that my appreciation for this one is extremely dependent on the basis established by the previous two installments. That brings me to my next point: the highlight of the film for me is the continuation of the overall story of the series. If you ask me, this film brings Bruce Wayne's story to an excellent conclusion. As for the lack of Batman, I would have liked to see more of him, but his absence did not bother me much as this is really more of a Bruce Wayne movie rather than a Batman movie.
This film has some connections and references to the first film. For me, the most powerful of these is the reference to the theme of learning to pick ourselves back up after we fall. This theme is introduced in the first film as Bruce falls into the well and his father helps him out. The reference to this theme in TDKR (which also reflects the film's title) is a highly symbolic one that involves an underground prison that Bruce has to climb out of, while the prisoners watching him chant a very catchy and memorable chant. His father helped him out of that well as a kid, and now he has to climb out of this prison himself. He now has to learn to pick himself back up, both literally and symbolically. This scene also excellently symbolizes Bruce's overall, underlying journey to rise back up and re-discover the will to live.
Overall, this is one of my favorite film trilogies. In addition to having great action sequences and effects, it also has a great, relatable underlying story. It has great moral messages, such consequences for one's actions, and much more. This trilogy contains a lot of life's lessons. And it doesn't exactly hurt that it works as pure blockbuster entertainment as well.
Before I close, I want to mention the music score. Hans Zimmer returns to work his musical magic on this film just like he did on BB and TDK. Especially noteworthy is that recurring two-note motif that has appeared repeatedly throughout the entire series. Whenever this motif is heard, it never completely resolves, always posing some questions. Just like the motif, even at the points where the story resolves, it never quite resolves completely, always posing some questions and uncertainties as to what is to come in the future, among other things. In fact, it is this two-note motif with which the film, and the series, ends.
The Croods (2013)
A pleasant surprise
I found The Croods to be a pleasant surprise. It exceeded any expectations I had prior to seeing it. Twentieth Century Fox has teamed up with the studio behind How to Train Your Dragon and Shrek, put How to Train Your Dragon director Chris Sanders on the helm along with Kirk De Micco, and come out with this lively, rousing, and highly entertaining work. It doesn't quite rise up the level of Shrek or How to Train Your Dragon (the latter of which is my favorite DreamWorks animated film), but it's definitely one of DreamWorks's better films. It certainly contains the studio's style, and some elements from (and a few references to) a few of its previous films, including the aforementioned Shrek and HTTYD.
The Croods tells the story of a caveman family, (yes, you've guessed it) the Croods, the last surviving family in the region in which they live. They live by hiding in their cave most of the time, only going out to hunt. They always play it safe and live in fear, especially of anything new; as the father, Gurg (Nicolas Cage) says, "Never not be afraid."
The exception to this is Grug's teenage daughter Eep (Emma Stone), who, instead of wanting to play it safe all the time, is willing to take risks and learn new things. Because of this, she is a bit distant from her family. One night she ventures out of the cave and meets a young man named Guy (Ryan Reynolds), who warns her that the world is about to end. Sure enough, an earthquake occurs soon afterward, destroying the Croods' cave (but this is just the beginning). This sends the family on a journey with Guy across an incredible land that they have never experienced, full of fantastic creatures and more, while heading to a mountain where they will supposedly be safe.
I honestly cannot think of much to criticize about the film, except maybe a little bit of the plotting, but that's about it. Again, it doesn't live up to How to Train Your Dragon, but it's still good (and it is admittedly a bit better in terms of character development). It is full of clever humor, wit, and energy. The humor is neither too childish nor too adult. The film also contains true emotion and good, valuable morals. And it is absolutely full of heart. The animation is excellent; colorful, lively, and dazzling. And I want to give a major thumbs-up to Alan Silvestri for the score, which is lively and rousing, just like everything else about the film.
Another especially noteworthy aspect of the film is Eep. Strong female protagonists seem to be fairly popular these days, and Eep is no exception. All of the characters shine, not completely dominating any of the others, but she does shine a bit more than the others. Her appearance brought to mind Fiona from Shrek (which is not surprising, as the same studio is behind them both). She is strong, bold, daring, and rebellious, and her personality recalls that of the aforementioned Fiona, Astrid from HTTYD, and even a bit of Merida from Brave. And yes, there is definitely a bit of Astrid in her; just look at the way she treats Guy when she first meets him. However, they do eventually develop some feelings for each other (which Grug is not too happy about). Eep and all of the other character of the film are lovable, as are the interactions and family values, dynamics, and bonding. The voice performances are good too.
From beginning to end, there was not a single moment anywhere in the entire film where I was bored. Again, it's not great, but it is good. It is a clever, witty, humorous, energetic, rousing, heartwarming delight, and I hope it gets nominated for the Best Animated Film Oscar. I will not be surprised if it becomes a childhood classic for future generations. I even stayed for the credits. And its primary moral message is one that anybody can relate to: don't let your life get stale go out and learn and experience new things, live up to your potential, and really live your life and dreams.
Jack the Giant Slayer (2013)
Surprisingly enjoyable
As James Berardinelli points out in his review of this film, Hollywood currently seems to be going through a trend of fairytale/folklore re-imaginations. Unlike what Disney does in their re-imaginations of such stories, these are tending to be darker and more mature, with more adult elements. A couple of these are Alice In Wonderland and Snow White and the Huntsman. I haven't seen the former, but I have seen the latter, and to be honest I wasn't overwhelmed. Now, Hollywood decides it's time for such an adaptation of Jack and the Beanstalk, and along comes director Bryan Singer, who helms Jack the Giant Slayer, which I found to be somewhat enjoyable, and a worthy addition to the current trend.
Nicholas Hoult plays the title character, Jack, a farmboy who has grown up hearing about a legendary tale about giants living in a place between the earth and heaven. Jack soon comes into possession of some magic beans, and soon inadvertently grows a beanstalk that sprouts out from under his house up into the sky, all the way up to the giants' world (carrying the house up with it). Princess Isabelle happens to be in Jack's house when this occurs, and she is caught up in the gigantic sprouting vines and carried up to the giant world (talk about being in the wrong place at the wrong time).
Jack climbs up the beanstalk along with the princess's protectors and her fiancé, Roderick, to search for her. However, Roderick has with him a legendary magical crown with the power to exercise control over the giants, and secretly plans to use it to assemble the giants and take over the human world below. Jack, meanwhile, searches for, and eventually falls in love with, the princess.
I was expecting this film to be dorky, and yes, it is a bit so. However, it was actually not as stupid as I thought it would be. In fact, it does have some fairly smart elements. The story follows a fairly simple, straightforward, and predictable trajectory, and it had the potential to expand and be a lot more, and some of the plotting could have been better, but it is entertaining. It even has some good comical moments here and there. The CGI and effects are pretty good. Everything is very well designed and feels alive. The setting is portrayed excellently, especially the giant world. The giants are truly menacing, and, well, if any of these giants existed in real life, I certainly wouldn't want to get near them. The action sequences are good too, although some scenes may be a bit too intense and violent for little children. But what I liked most of all, in terms of the CGI and effects, was the beanstalk.
As with a number of films these days, some of the action and CGI sequences tend to be a little too long and over the top. This is not much of a problem, although they could have cut some of it. The characterization is relatively simple, and character development is a bit lacking, but even so, I liked and cared about the characters. Jack is a good protagonist, and Nicholas Hoult portrays him pretty well. Isabelle is an enjoyable love interest and damsel in distress. And all the other characters, while again, a bit underdeveloped, are all enjoyable in their roles. I even found Ewan McGregor's character likable. And overall, the film does offer a good sense of adventure.
A little while back, I watched Snow White and the Huntsman, and overall I found the film to be so-so. However, in Jack the Giant Slayer, I did find the beginning (up until the beanstalk sprouted and the story really began) to be a bit slow, but after that, I got somewhat interested in the story, world, and characters, and stayed that way for the rest of the movie. Although, as some reviewers have pointed out, only male giants are seen in the film. Where are the females (if any)? If not, how do the giants reproduce? They are not immortal, as some of them die in the film. But still, this does not spoil the film in any way. Again, it is not a great movie; it's most certainly not Oscar material or anything like that. And it's not even trying to be. It's a competent, unpretentious film, neither pretending nor trying to be more than what it is; a fun, decent, fast-paced action/adventure fantasy flick, and a worthy retelling of the old Jack and the Beanstalk fairytale. Don't go see it expecting an incredibly complex and thought provoking film; just sit back and enjoy the show.
One of the main reasons I went to see this film (among others) was because Bryan Singer directed it. I enjoyed the first two X-Men movies and Superman Returns (yes, I liked it), and so I was curious about this film. As it turns out, Bryan Singer proves that he is still a competent film director.
My Rating: *** (out of ****)


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Kale Naturals®
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After a demanding workout, face, hair and body benefit from a moisturizing wash featuring intense antioxidants and hydrating botanicals. The thick, natural lathering product with green tea, soap bark, myrrh and licorice root will leave you feeling refreshed and replenished head-to-toe. Fragranced with a modern, citrus scent.
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Consumer Reports
Consumer Reports: Testing Self-Tanners
Marissa Graham has fair skin that burns easily.
Consumer Reports Tests Sunscreens, 18 Of 20 Below SPF Promise
Just in time for summer, Consumer Reports is out with their test of sunscreen.
Consumer Reports: Finding The Right Grill
With the holiday weekend here, a lot of us will be firing up the grill.
Consumer Reports' Winners & Losers At Costco
Consumer Reports has just released its list of the winners and losers from Costco.
Consumer Reports: How To Get Cash For Old Electronics
Got an old computer stashed in a storage room?
Consumer Reports: Tips To Protect Your Smartphone
Based on a new survey, Consumer Reports estimates the number of stolen phones nearly doubled in the past year to more than three million. More than a million smartphones were lost and never found.
Consumer Reports: Homeowner's Insurance Tips
When a storm slams through your front door, the damages you suffer are often determined by fate. But, how easily you can pick up the pieces may be determined by your home insurer.
Consumer Reports: Spring Car Buying Tips
It was a long and lonely winter for many auto dealers across the country. Now, with temperatures heating up, they're eager to welcome you back.
Consumer Reports: Ooma Telephone Service Earns High Marks
The average bill for phone, internet and television runs more than $150 a month. One way to trim your costs is to cut the cord and switch to a phone service that delivers calls via the Internet.
Consumer Reports: PS4's Parental Controls May Allow More Than You Think
The PS4's parental controls can restrict content that you might not want your children to see, like violent games or adult content, but it might allow other content you didn't know about.
Consumer Reports Names Tesla Model S Its Top Pick
The Tesla Model S electric sedan is Consumer Reports' top pick in this year's automotive rankings.
Consumer Reports Reveals Potential Health Risk In Soda
Consumer Reports is raising a red flag about a possible health risk with soda.
Consumer Reports Offers Advice For When To Repair Or Replace Appliances
Repair or replace? That's always the question with appliances and electronics when they go on the fritz.
Consumer Reports: Steam-Cooked Meals – Cooking Revolution Or A Lot Of Hot Air?
Want a healthy dinner in a snap? What about a microwavable, steam-cooked meal?
Consumer Reports Tests Best Exercise Equipment
If you've made your New Year's resolution to get in shape, you're in luck.


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Four Corners Dark available at Amazon and Other Leading Bookstores. Free Kindle version giveaway from August 30th to September 3rd
Upon learning of the tribeÔÇÖs fears, the townspeople agreed to intervene. Instead, they antagonized a creature that devours the hearts of the living and the souls of the dead, a witch that hunts on tribal landsÔÇŽ
In ÔÇťEngine Eighteen,ÔÇŁ a group of Mexican immigrants attempt to cross a desert border to begin new lives, but end up paying a price for their old lives.
ÔÇťReturn to Nowhere,ÔÇŁ is the story of a man who has the extraordinary ability to remake his lives and escape his pasts.
ÔÇťThe Raven Mocker,ÔÇŁ a novella, tells the tale of a couple who encounters a dark force along the border between life and death.
ÔÇťThe Spinning Wheel,ÔÇŁ examines the face of fate and the choice given to one man to change it.
Terrifying encounters and haunting twists power this collection of works.


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[Rated G]
This is a ballad that was inspired by an MSPaint drawing I did about a year ago. I drew Clefairy in a Superman costume, and labelled him "Captain Clefairy." :P Btw, that drawing can be found here. Anyway, it's meant to be silly and cute, so please read it with that in mind. Enjoy!
The Ballad of Captain Clefairy
One normal day in the Pokémon world,
A young Clefairy from his hidey-hole twirled.
He danced and he played, and he played and he danced,
As little he knew of just what had advanced.
Toward his haven, from high up above the blue skies,
T'was a piece of debris of such monstrous size.
A comet came hurtling down from up high,
It plunged through the stratosphere; straight through the sky.
He looked up in awe as the monstrous thing fell.
Then realized the danger, and realized it well.
He scarcely had time for a single reaction -
He lifted his finger and performed an action.
His Metronome cry was quite lost in the roar,
But his brave little spirit was not yet no more.
The Metronome changed to a technique most rare,
And altered the event that began happening there.
The comet fell quite short of destroying all.
Clefairy's "Cosmic Power" had broken its fall.
A bright flash of light and a pillar of fire,
Was all that was seen and/or heard to transpire.
But none were around to feel lost or confused,
While Clefairy and Comet converged and then fused.
Clefairy passed out when the fusion was done.
His meteor attributes and he were one.
Clefairy came to... much, much later that day.
The sun had gone down and the moon come to play.
As Clefairy got up and he glanced around,
He felt astonished that no damage was found.
"I've saved the whole mountain!" He thought with relief.
"Though how is beyond me, and beyond all belief!"
His thoughts were interrupted by a shrill cry of fright.
It sounded as though there was trouble this night.
"That's a Zigzagoon," he thought as he ran.
"I don't know what's wrong, but I'll do what I can!"
He raced for the sound, and quite fast, you'll agree.
For his speedy legs took him well past mach 3.
"This is insane!" He exclaimed as he raced.
"Never before have I been this fast-paced!
What's happened to me, and why am I alive?
That comet was massive; I couldn't survive!"
But he didn't have time for such thoughts anymore;
He'd arrived just in time to see Team Rocket soar,
Through the sky as they took off in their Meowth balloon,
And inside their net was a scared Zigzagoon.
He watched in shocked fury as they laughed with glee.
They'd caught one! The boss would be happy to see!
Clefairy fumed as the balloon rose up high.
They had stolen that 'mon, and he couldn't see why.
He felt a strong urge to leap high as he might,
So he did, and was shocked to experience flight!
Like magic he soared through the air like a bird.
He didn't know why; it was all quite absurd.
But regardless he felt he must do what he can,
To save that poor creature from their evil plan.
He gritted his teeth and came up from behind.
They weren't looking his way. To him, they were blind.
Like lightning it happened; the whole thing a blur.
He snatched up their cargo and caused quite a stir.
They hadn't quite seen him, but they were so mad,
What happened to the prize Zigzagoon they'd just had?
They had little time to consider this thought,
For Clefairy zoomed 'round to their balloon and he caught,
A portion of it under his sharpest claws.
He scratched a nice hole in the side and then paused.
Immediately, the balloon went a-flying,
Its three passengers found it quite terrifying.
They screamed as they zoomed off ahead out of sight:
"Team Rocket's blasting off at the speed of light!"
As he freed his rescuee on the ground below,
The Zigzagoon's eyes shone with awe all aglow.
She thanked him profusely, and gave him a gift -
A nugget of gold, as warm thanks for the lift.
She begged him to come with her and see her home.
He agreed, as he had nowhere better to roam.
She took him with her to the "Pack Zigzagoon."
Where they partied quite hearty to honor this boon.
They decided Clefairy was something collossal -
Even more powerful than living fossils!
They gave him a title, and partied 'til morn.
Captain Clefairy, a new hero was born!


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Three Reasons to be Thankful for TumblrPosted by Heidi Strom Moon under Social Media
Tumblr, the microblogging platform, is getting increasingly prominent in the social media landscape, and for businesses, that's a reason to give thanks.
First launched in 2007 as a quick and easy microblogging platform, Tumblr has now grown to over 64.7 million blogs and 26.9 million unique visitors.
Along the way it has expanded beyond its initial notoriety as a platform for one-concept theme blogs (Feminist Ryan Gosling, anyone?) to one ideally suited for supplementing traditional blogging with more focused content curation.
And that means it's time for businesses to take another look at using Tumblr for content marketing and promotion.
Here are 3 reasons to use Tumblr for business marketing and promotion:
- Content Curation. The currency of Tumblr is reposting the content of others, called "reblogging." Many businesses use their Tumblr blogs for this purpose while publishing longer original content on their traditional blogs.
- SEO. All of those reblogged posts generate links back to their original sources, providing some nice link juice and a little SEO boost. And of course the Tumblr content itself is indexed, giving your business one more way to be found in search (ComScore calls this strategy the "Digital Shelf").
- Younger Demographics. Overall, Tumblr users are younger (and slightly more female), making it an ideal option for reaching this demo, whether it's your current target market or one you want to expand into.
Intrigued and want to learn more? Our self-guided social media training site, PowerUp Social, has more detailed information on Tumblr for blogging and small business promotion, including the marketing tactics described here and examples of organizations and businesses using Tumblr right.
Or Contact CDG to review your digital strategy and determine whether Tumblr—and any other social media platform—should be a part of it.


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More than 200 students and instructors participated in the third annual Marion County Fire School this past weekend, which is the largest county fire school in the state. It's also the only fire school that is free of charge for students. During the weekend, students got hands-on experience in fighting fires and responding to emergency situations. The training programs included a live burn of a house on Danville Highway.
The AAAA West regional marching band competition has been moved. This is the regional in which Marion County High School's band is scheduled to compete Saturday, Oct. 31.
The competition was originally scheduled to be held at Warren East High School. However, due to the field conditions at Warren East, the AAAA West regional has been moved to the paved practice field at Bowling Green High School.
Anyone planning to travel for the competition should be aware that seating for spectators will be extremely limited. Spectators are encouraged to bring their own seats.
Josh Veatch has been walking beside his father on the family farm for almost as long as he's been able.
"My first step was in a tobacco patch," said Josh, 25, "and that's where I've been ever since."
Today, he and his father run the farm together on land that's been in their family going back to his great-grandparents.
"I'll be the fourth generation," Josh said.
His wife, Jessica, 29, spent 21 years of her life on a farm, where she has memories of setting tobacco and stripping leaves.
A home located at 2070 Danville Highway was destroyed by fire in the early morning hours on Wednesday, Oct. 21.
"The house was a completely total loss," Lebanon Fire Chief Ricky Mattingly said. "There was nothing there."
No injuries were reported as a result of the fire.
Mattingly said he understood from talking to a neighbor that the home's residents, Beth Wayne and her children, were out of town at the time of the fire.
As state and national health officials continue to offer recommendations about flu vaccines, several myths have surfaced on the Internet.
These range from the conspiratorial (the vaccine is a means to inject people with microchips) to the skeptical (H1N1 isn't worth worrying about) to a more general anti-vaccine perspective (some people blame vaccines for problems, instead of crediting vaccines for preventing them).
Little ghosts and goblins will be invading Marion County this weekend for Halloween on Saturday. The annual Halloween in the Park will be held Saturday from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Graham Memorial Park. The event is for all children ages preschool through sixth grade. Activities will include a hayride, sack races, candy cornhole, face painting, trick-or-treat candy, spider toss, Halloween golf and a fortune teller will be on hand. The costume contest will begin at 6 p.m. on the tennis courts. If it rains, the event is cancelled.
Gov. Steve Beshear ended months of speculation Monday by appointing Dan Kelly to fill the vacant judge's seat in the 11th Judicial Circuit, Division One. Kelly was sworn in Monday afternoon.
The 11th Judicial District includes Green, Marion, Taylor and Washington counties.
"Sen. Kelly has the appropriate temperament and experience for this position," Beshear said in a press release announcing the appointment. "I feel confident he will provide fair, honest and judicious service to the people of the 11th Judicial Circuit."
The small French man approached Jean-Pierre Garnier. The man, Bernard Guirand, was looking for a relative of 1st Lt. Robert Kelley, who had been the pilot of a plane that crashed more than 61 years ago.
Garnier introduced him to Kelley's daughter, Barbara Brady of Lebanon, who was attending the ceremony honoring the victims of two plane crashes at Crête du Cheval Blanc (White Horse Ridge) two days apart in the aftermath of World War II.
Guirand handed Brady a set of pilot's wings.
Pulling up to Garrett Thompson's workshop, you're likely to hear AC/DC or Johnny Cash blaring from inside.
"That's what gets my mojo going," Thompson said.
Regardless of what music accompanies him, Thompson's mind is set on doing a good job, not just for his customers, but also for himself.
Thompson's studio is nestled in a corner of Marion County, near the Nelson/LaRue County line, on Highview Pike in Raywick.
Five miles east of Lebanon and south of US 68, approximately 1,700 acres of land could soon be set aside to create the Pope Creek-Putnam Knob State Forest and Wildlife Management Area.
The Marion County Fiscal Court, the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources and the Kentucky Division of Forestry are partners in a project to create a natural conservation area in the county.
Copyright © 2014
The Lebanon Enterprise is your source for local news, sports, events, and information in Marion County and Lebanon, KY, and the surrounding area.


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To the Editor:
Why did I go solar?
1. Is it because I am an old hippie? (I did attend the very first Earth Day in April, 1970 as a college freshman so maybe.)
2. Is it because I am a science teacher and feel that the US is not utilizing all its options for meeting its energy demands? (As of 2012, only 0.22 percent of US energy needs is being met by photo-voltaic (PV) solar installations, compared to 2 percent of the European Union's energy demands and to 1 percent of the world's energy demands).
To the Editor:
In most parking lots for businesses, a brightly painted area of diagonal yellow lines indicates a no parking area. In Newtown, it serves as an area to park.....at least in the Big Y shopping center, adjacent to Dunkin Donuts and Salon Michelle.
To the Editor:
After clearing my driveway, shoveling walks and clearing snow off the car, what was left was the three feet of snow at the foot of the driveway and at least that far into the street. As the rain came in, I headed indoors for a much needed break and the hopes the rain will stop before we lost daylight.
To the Editor:
In the January 17 issue of The Bee, there was an article on the Horse and Dog news page entitled, "Saddle Up for Life Program Offered Through Horse Guard." It caught my eye because I wrote it. It first appeared in The Bee on May 11, 2007; then on March 18, 2008; March 27, 2009 and March 19, 2010.
The January 17 article paraphrased my previous articles, but things have changed since I left in 2010, and now this article has many inaccuracies.
To the Editor:
The Week of Prayer for Christian Unity, celebrated from January 18 – 25, has just passed. May I share its roots that we, here in Newtown, might reflect upon its purpose?
Jesus the Christ prayed: "As You (the Father) sent me into the world, I have sent them into the world that they may be one as we are one." That all may be one! What a magnificent hope for all people!
To the Editor:
I have been alerting Newtown residents for years that the objective of Queen Street residents was, in addition to speed control, significant traffic reduction. However when the Police Commission installed two, then three, and then five speed bumps the public was lead to believe that traffic diversion and reduction wasn't significant.
Now under the Freedom of Information Act we have learned the opposite. Traffic on Queen Street has been diverted by almost 1,800 vehicles per day.
To the Editor:
On January 25 my seven-year-old daughter made her first penance with her second grade classmates at St. Rose of Lima Church. I couldn't help but think, looking out at the scores of families assembled, that there were children who were not in attendance because of the December 2012 rampage at Sandy Hook School. Children who died that awful day should have been with us, sitting in the St. Rose pews, making funny faces at each other and listening to Father Bob's amusing recollections of his childhood.
I pray for this community every day; I also pray for our country. I pray for the people who feel their Second Amendment rights somehow trump the rights of the majority of us to enjoy our rights to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.
To the Editor:
There were a few things that caught my eye this past week. The first was Barbara Richardson's letter ["Assault Weapons: The Eyes Of The Beholders," Letter Hive, 1-24-14] concerning the National Shooting Sports Foundation and the gun industry's marketing of semi-automatic versions of military type assault weapons. Her contention is that by the industry's re-branding them as Modern Sporting Rifles these weapons can be portrayed as more socially acceptable, and concerns about access to them are exaggerated. But as she points out, access to guns by individuals prone to violence is a very serious problem, and the gun industry's marketing techniques tip the scales in favor of sales over violence prevention.
To the Editor,
As an official of the union representing employees of the Newtown Department of Public Works, I'd like to correct a statement that First Selectman Pat Llodra made in a recent article "Finance Board Talks Snow Removal, Sewer Project Costs In Hawleyville."
Newtown DPW crew members do not receive double time pay on Sundays if they are called in to work a storm. We receive time and a half on Saturdays and Sundays.
To the Editor:
I am confused. If Charles Dumais is such a great principal that he got hired away by another school district as a superintendent, why wasn't he considered for our next superintendent of schools? Was he asked? If he was asked, did he refuse?


text:
This page contains Castlevania: Symphony Of The Night Glitches for Xbox 360 called "Save room" and has been posted or updated on Mar 31, 2009 by whiteshadow420. Let us know what you think of this Glitch by thumbs voting.
- Developer: Digital Eclipse
- Publisher: Konami
- Genre: Action Platformer 2D
- Release Date: Mar 21, 2007
- ESRB: Teen
Save room
Use the "Walk through walls" glitch at the first area (the one with the drawbridge) and fall below the map. Go towards the drawbridge and you will fall into a hole leading to an underground cavern. There are only two ways to go; up, which leads back to the main floor, or right, which takes you to a glitched save point which does work.
Back to all Cheats
Stuck on this game? Set a specific, clearly defined question and let others answer your question or view answers to previously asked questions. If you think you are an Castlevania: Symphony Of The Night expert then please try to help others with their questions.
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text:
The Science Guy
Director of the National Institute of Mental Health Thomas Insel thinks researchers have neglected a potential wellspring of solutions: neuroscience
MOOC Probes a War You've Never Heard Of
Middle East course by BU's Bacevich coincides with ISIS emergence. Register now on BUx.
digital learning from BUx
Finding Friendship
Chinese students describe the difficulties of making friends with American students


text:
Your logic is flawed
Let's analyze:
"So I will stick with my assessment of spy, because I will do every thing I can to get Paul where he belongs."
You are using the form "A because B" here. The problem is, A does not follow from B. In fact, if you end up alienating other people/voters/supporters by jumping to conclusions about them (A), you damage your stated goal (B).
You are using the same faulty logic that those people who don't like Paul's foreign policy use: "We will stick with our plan to attack Iran, because we will do every thing we can to keep us safe."
Plus, you don't really mean B. Have you sold every possession and donated all of your money? Have you sold your extra organs on the black market? Do you phone-bank 12 hours a day every day? Have you worked out how you are going to personally "take out" Paul's toughest competition?
"I believe every person that can't take the heat get out of the kitchen or DP."
So you are saying you are intentionally hostile? How does that help get Ron Paul elected?
"So you do have the right to post just as I do."
No, neither of us has a "right" to post here. Michael Nystrom has conditionally granted us permission to do so, and may revoke it anytime he so desires.
"I am a unwavering supporter for Paul are you?"
So because I don't call people names and try to chase them off the site just because YOU don't like what they say, that brings my "loyalty" into question?
And I am just supposed to believe you when you claim your unwavering support? After all, YOU are the one saying the goverment should be able to just print money. Ron Paul would NEVER in a billion years support that. He would very strongly oppose it. Anyone who understands what he has been teaching should know that. So by your own logic, that apparently means YOU are a spy?
BTW, questioning loyality in response to differing views as you have done is another bit of illogic often used by Ron's detractors. I.e., they say that if you disagree with American foreign policy you are unAmerican.
Do you know what? There are some things on which I disagree with Ron Paul. Does that make me "unPaul"? No.
- Login to post comments


text:
migrant farm jobs
Submitted by The Granger on Tue, 03/19/2013 - 11:29. Permalink
industrial jobs that are now available and Americans won't take.. or, NAFTA laws.
Central CA has a population of children of migrant worlers who are not hispanic, and many are from generations of migrant farm workers, who through many laws, were "emancipated" to better work, but that didn't happen for all.
Maybe the states should start immigrant programs for americans interested in farm work for Monsanto?
- Login to post comments


text:
Updated 04/08/2014
You'll find a well-rounded crowd at this wine and tapas bar where Rousillon's top vignerons often mingle. Owned by two musicians with lots of friends, its walls are lined with bottles and long oak tables are filled with locals who spill out into the alley. If you've had one too many drawn-out French meal, this is the place to savor flavorful salads and small bites (like pesto and mozzarella entre pains) washed down with an excellent glass du sud. Just
don't count on this address in August because the bar is closed when everyone's at the beach. Order wine by the bottle and pay the cellar rate plus corking fee—by the glass can get expensive.
26 rue de la Cloche d'Or, Perpignan, 66000, France
Restaurant Details:
Updated 04/08/2014


text:
Head still giving me hassles.
The combination of impending TOM, weather and holiday probably has *nothing* to do with it.
And on the TOM note. Of course Mother Nature has decided once again to take me off schedule so that she can join me of my 1/2 marathon on Sunday.
I think I would rather be taking a nap. Preferably with these two....
May you be bloated with blessings!
So now I am at the weight that I notoriously plateau, get really frustrated and gain it all back. Plus the holidays are here AND I have a 1/2 marathon next Sunday. And since I still haven't figured out the mystery of weight gain after a race....
To help combat this I have informed or involved more people than normal of my plans.
Also when some of my habitual saboteur co-workers offer me cake, pizza, brownies or (like today) homemade caramel I tell them no...unless they are planning on helping me stuff my fat ass in a plane seat heading to Scotland. Oh, and I get the arm rest.
I hate to be so blunt with them, but sometimes it is the only thing that gets through. I still have a few that have come back repeatedly even after such answers.
Makes. Me. Crazy.
So here is to not sliding back, not maiming anyone and finishing next weekend's 1/2 marathon with a PR.
Work puppy ran into my office before Mom could take off her coat and leash.
She's a smarty!
Okay, the crowing rooster alarm that keeps getting louder until you do a math problem isn't nearly as funny anymore. I still like the idea of having to do a math problem before being able to hit the snooze button, but I'm *going* to have to pick a different sound to wake up to.
I don't know how farmers do it!
And for those following my attempts at different Hungry Girl oatmeal breakfast in the morning....
This morning was Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Oatmeal. I know for some this would be really yummy, but it was too pumpkin-y for me. Since I needed to head to work and was running out of time...I went with a protein drink.
So not the same.
I will attempt to not be cranky, but unless someone brings me a work puppy stat then I can't promise anything!
Have a great day everybody!


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About Playdead Cult
Their motto being "For the Black Collar Worker," Playdead Cult is for those who don't want to blend in with the masses; people who want to make a statement with what they are wearing and how they live their lives.
Founded in 1999 with nothing but imagination and a wobbly screen printing press, Playdead has grown from a rented room inside a welding shop to a Warhol-like factory dubbed "The Playdead Mansion." It began as a small line of T-shirts adorned with the artwork spawned from the ADD ridden brain of co-founder Stu Dead. He and his partner-in-crime, Bean, began selling their creations at friends local gigs. They went on to vending the line at festivals and tours such as the Toronto Clothing Show, Van's Warped Tour, Edgefest, and Ozzfest before opening their first retail outlet in 2003. The current headquarters is located in Toronto's Parkdale where the small family-like team at Playdead Cult live every day as an expression of art, taking pride in creating each piece by hand.
Playdead Cult has grown to become not just a clothing brand but an ever-evolving creative movement. Bringing together clothing, visual art, music, dance, and film and always delving into further media. They delight in hosting events that meld these artistic elements together in a light-hearted way and always with a sense of humor. From putting on their annual super-gory haunted attraction Nightmare on Queen Street at The Playdead Mansion to presenting collections at Toronto Fashion Week that according to ElleCanada online "put the show back in fashion show!" they have become recognized for their ability to entertain and bring together all kinds of people from different walks of life to share in this movement, to create, to contribute or just enjoy.
You don't have to be brainwashed to join this cult.
Store: www.playdeadcult.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/playdeadcult
Tumblr: playdeadcult.tumblr.com
Twitter: twitter.com/playdeadcult
MySpace: www.myspace.com/playdeadcult
YouTube: www.youtube.com/theplaydeadcul…
Current Residence: 254 Augusta Avenue, Toronto, Ontario


text:
STARKVILLE – 15 members of Chickasaw County 4-H participated in the Northeast District Horse Show Jun 12-15 in Starkville with the team placing sixth in Overall High Point as a county. Shelby Abrams took first place in Individual Demonstration and Jessi Rhodes placed second in High Individual Speed events. Others who placed in competitive events […]
Tag Archives | Savanna Rhodes
4-H members at district horse show
By Floyd Ingram | 6:05 AM | August 10, 2013 | Living, News
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- Topper Old Timer December 16, 2014
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- Union County woman arrested in scam after burning death December 19, 2014
- Wreaths across America December 19, 2014
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- FLOYD INGRAM: Christmas in Houston, Mississippi December 18, 2014
- EDITORIAL: Change December 18, 2014
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text:
-Orr-Stormy Seas
Credits & Info
- Date
- 08/03/2006
- File Info
- Song
- 2 min 0 sec
- Score
- 3.73 / 5.00
Related Content
Heard in 12 Entries!
View all submissions featuring this audio file.
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Licensing Terms
- Attribution:
- You must give credit to the artist.
- Noncommercial:
- You may not use this work for commercial purposes unless you make specific arrangements with the artist.
- Share Alike:
- If you alter, transform, or build upon this image, you may distribute the resulting creation only under a license identical to this one.
- Score:
- Rated 3.73 / 5 stars
- Plays & Downloads:
- 21,016 Plays | 2,937 Downloads
- Share Links:
- Genres:
- Easy Listening - Classical
- None
Author Comments
Rated 5 / 5 stars
10/10 and 5/5! great work! but the title seems off. the feeling i get is this: after three days and nights of wind and rain the crew rejoice as the clouds part and the sun shines down on them.
Rated 5 / 5 stars
This is a great military anthem!
I would use this piece of art either for credits or for a heroic battle (modern warfare).
I aplaud you and am looking forward to your next work.
Rated 5 / 5 stars
This would be an awesome song to a movie with a ship going through a storm
Rated 5 / 5 stars
Yo this is awesome
This kinda reminds me of a war in the beginning then a feeling of lose in the middle and then the great feeling of victory in the end.... But i like it.... keep up the good work
Rated 4.5 / 5 stars
Makes me want to animate to it.
This is the sort of background music that I could animate to. My art usually has this kind of feel to it.


text:
Science Friday® is produced by the Science Friday Initiative, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.
Science Friday® and SciFri® are registered service marks of Science Friday, Inc. Site design by Pentagram; engineering by Mediapolis.
Try your hand at homemade sunscreen, water bottle rockets, and "cooler corn."
We'll give you some ideas for safe -- and not so safe -- science experiments that you may be tempted to try at home.
Do you like to experiment with your food? We'll talk with the author of a new book about science, technology, and DIY hacks in the kitchen.
Two members of do-it-yourself clubs describe the geeky collectives known as 'hackerspaces.'
The Garbage-Men prove one man's trash is another man's upright bass.
Rick Bates, of Penn State University, shares handy tips for how to care for your...
A perennial holiday mystery: will alcohol kill bacteria in homemade eggnog?
Find out how to poison-proof holiday gatherings, and keep the holidays happy.
You've survived the big family Thanksgiving get-together -- but now the winter h...
In this episode, Cooking for Geeks author Jeff Potter gives home bakers tips on ...
\tIt is a question on the minds of many people this season: will adding alcohol to the homemade eggnog safeguard against salmonella? To find out, Science Friday teamed up with eggnog expert and microbiologist Vince Fischetti, who agreed to run some tests in his lab at The Rockefeller University. What did you think of the video?


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free shippingon most orders over $49*
Get 3% Backwith AllModern rewards
Elisabeth Michael Ikat Cotton Shower Curtain
Elisabeth Michael Ikat Cotton Shower Curtain
Weights & Dimensions
|Product Type: Shower curtain
|Color: 1: Black
|Color: 2: White
|Material: Other
|Number of Items Included: 1
|Pattern: Ikat
|Number of Hook Holes: 12
|Grommets: Yes
|Hooks Required: Yes
|Hooks Included: No
|Liner Required: Yes
|Pockets Included: No
|Topstitched: Yes
|Washing Care: Machine wash
|Drying Care: Tumble dry
|Product Care: Use mild detergent
|Country of Manufacture: United States
|Assembly Required: No
|Tools Needed: No tools are required
|Additional Parts Required: No
Still have questions about this product? We're here to help
Elisabeth Michael Ikat Cotton Shower Curtain
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Tell us what you think about this product. It will help us provide you with better products in the future and help your fellow shoppers make better purchases.Write the first review
About the ManufacturerElisabeth Michael is known for making chic shower curtains, drapes, and pillows for the modern home. Their decorative pillows, drapes, bedding, bath, and home decor are unique and add a splash of color to any room and home.
OUR SKU # NSN1673Ikat Cotton Shower Curtain is also sometimes listed under the following manufacturer numbers: 300073


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The La Sportiva FC ECO 2.0 is a good-looking and robust shoe. The stiff leather uppers and burly shank and midsole inspire a feeling of confidence on rough terrain and with a pack. It delivers great traction, and we gave it the highest score for foot support. These characteristics helped the shoe out-perform many of its competitors when we were carrying moderate loads. We also loved its casual unassuming appearance, which let our testers keep them on from landscaping the yard to office meetings.
This shoe fits narrow to average feet and captures a narrow heel well. The Lowa Renegade II GTX Lo is very similar in support and feel and comes in narrow, regular and wide sizes. The Patagonia Drifter A/C GORE-TEX is a more comfortable and versatile shoe.
Hands-on Gear Review
Compare hiking shoes ratings side-by-side >
Street Price: $150 | Compare prices at 6 resellers
Pros: Very durable, great foot support, snug fit.
Cons: Heavy and stiff.
Best Uses: Ridge scrambles, backpacking, casual wear.
Compare top rated competitors side-by-side >
OutdoorGearLab Editors' Hands-on Review
La Sportiva FC ECO 2.0 earned top scores for support and durability. One of the heavier shoes we tested, it is surprisingly cool and breathable for a mostly leather model.
Performance Comparison
In terms of comfort, the La Sportiva FC ECO 2.0 feels pretty firm and uninviting at first. The sole is quite stiff, the leather uppers are substantial and the footbed is solid. As this shoe started to break in though, we grew fonder of its supportive nature and strong backbone.
The lacing system is basic. After first passing through a webbing loop on the mesh forefoot, the laces continue through five traditional round metal eyelets. This gets the job done, but doesn't provide the adjustability of more modern lacing systems.
The mesh portion of the upper, which forms the forefoot flex point, provides just enough room for this shoe to breathe better than we anticipated.
This model weighed in at 2.51 lbs, the third heaviest of the bunch. The dense sole, extremely protective toe-cap reminiscent of approach shoes, and thick leather uppers contribute to its weight, but also contribute to the benefits of this shoe, namely support and durability.
This product's design prioritizes support, and received the highest score we awarded. During long days out in rough terrain and on backpacking trips this shoe excels. This stiffness also makes the shoe a top performer for scrambling rocky ridges and playing in the talus.
The La Sportiva FC ECO 2.0 surprisingly let us down a bit in the traction category. While the sole holds well on dry rock and in the mud, wet granite slabs and gravel are not its strong suit. The Vibram River sole seems to be one of the harder soles we tested.
This shoe is a bit heavy and stiff for smooth trails and short dayhikes, but is a favorite for backpacking and longer hikes in rough terrain. It takes well to moving fast in rough terrain, but running is not comfortable. This is a good-looking shoe and the only one we tested with only one color available. Good thing this light tan makes for a great casual shoe. At work or out to a casual dinner these look great.
Water Resistance
This model is another standout in the waterproofing category. They kept our feet dry as a bone and the leather resists absorbing water very well. After some use and scuffing up, the leather does soak up water and get heavy using a leather conditioner is a great option.
Our first assumption about this shoe's durability turned out to be flat wrong. The only mesh portion of the upper is the forefoot flex point, and we figured it would wear quickly. This is a common wear spot on hiking footwear from abrasion. But La Sportiva's 100 percent recycled mesh shows no signs of wear after lots of scrambling and rough hiking. Add the quality leather and relatively hard sole and this boot was a top scorer.
Best Applications
The La Sportiva FC ECO 2.0 feels most at home on rougher trails and carrying a pack, in addition to being a fine casual shoe.
At $150 list price, this model comes in the middle of the shoes. Folks with narrow feet that want a very supportive, durable shoe think it's a great deal.
Coined as a "low top, waterproof, versatile shoe" by La Sporitiva, we feel like they got what they set out to accomplish. This model is stiff and requires some breaking in, and is perfect for rough terrain and backpacking. Our narrow-footed lead tester loves them for ridge traverses and light backpacking.
Other Versions and Accessories
The FC ECO 2.0 - Women's, are the women's version of this shoe.
The La Sportiva FC Eco 3.0 GTX and La Sportiva FC ECO 3.0 GTX - Women's, $175, are the slightly lower cut version of the the Eco 4.0 men's boot about which we did a full review. The appearance and specs for the two are virtually the same aside from modest differences in weight, color and price. The 3.0 Weighs 18.6 ounces rather than 21, comes in a different color, costs about $5 more, has a different lacing system, and does not offer as much ankle support. The 3.0 still has full ankle coverage but leans more in the light hiker and mid category.
— Brandon Lampley and Tommy Penick
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Most recent review: October 6, 2014
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It was still there in a very small quantity 2 weeks ago. I said screw it, chucked in some clean copper....smell gone in a few hours. Kegged it and the batch is delicious.
For ****s and giggles I even bottled a 12 pack when I noticed the stink bad 2.5 months ago. Well as a little experiment I tossed a 6 pack into the dishwasher and ran a cycle 1 day after bottling. Apparently the heat pasteurization worked like a charm cuz the heated ones are perfectly still yet the non-heated have about 3 volumes of CO2. Cool experiment but I kinda got lucky. I just force carbed the rest.
I just blew off the sulphur smell with co2. Worked like a charm. Good trick to keep in the back pocket and save a batch.


text:
But it doesn't have to be.
Continue Shopping.
Categories Food, Groceries Certified Organic Foods
Categories Food, Groceries Kosher Foods
Categories Food, Groceries Tea, Herbal Green Tea, Bags
Pukka Herbs, Mint Green Tea, 20 Tea Sachets, 1.06 oz (30 g)
- Shipping Weight: 0.49 lbs (0.22kg)
- Product Code: PKH-52366
- UPC Code: 5065000523664
- Package Quantity: 1.06 oz (30 g)
- Dimensions: 2.8 x 3.2 x 5.6 in, 0.15 lbs (0.07kg)
Madre Labs, CocoCardio, 7.93 oz (225 g)
Priced together: $18.20 Priced separately: $21.21
Product Overview
- Organic Whole Leaf Tea with Sweet Spearmint
- Fairtrade
- Sachets Individually Wrapped for Freshness
- Organic - Soil Association
- USDA Organic
- Kosher-Parve
We set out to create a truly superior tasting, smooth green tea—with a refreshing hint of sweet spearmint. So we hand picked some of the finest organic sencha green tea from fairtrade smallholders in China and gently dried the whole leaf to retain the fantastic, delicate flavor. We've used the best, fresh tasting fairtrade spearmint from Egypt that we could find—to combine beautifully with this smooth green tea.
Herbs have been used to support health for thousands of years. At Pukka we create unique blends to harness their incredible potential.
Enjoy it and stay well. —Pukka's ayurvedic practitioner and herbalist
Suggested Use
Infuse for 2-3 minutes in freshly boiled water that has been allowed to cool a little.
Supplement Facts
Fairtrade sencha green whole leaf (70%), fairtrade spearmint leaf (30%).
100% organically grown. Fairtrade ingredients certified to international fairtrade standards, total 100%.


text:
09-04-1997 Comments (0)
German chemical and pharmaceutical company Bayer is investing around $9billion over a six-year period…
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text:
@tank_: I gather they are thinking they will pull the same crowd as the others, then open it free to play and get others use the same model as pretty much every other MMO. I think the sticking to characters from Marvel will either make or brake the game. If its done well great if not the lack of creating your own hero will really shine through making the whole its left hugely obvious. When i used to play Champions and COH i did used to like seeing random and mad creations but then after awhile alot became quite samey you know.
DC missed its change with me not paying to play a game that old that nobody plays anymore really.
@jay_august i thought it said clamps " sorry watched to much futurama of late"


text:
Post, Ernest M.; insurance; born, Avoca, Louisiana, Sept. 1, 1862; son of Ralph B. and Ellen Deming Post; educated, Norwalk, Conn., and Hanover, Va.: married, Milwaukee, Wis., March 27, 1894, Alice C. Paine; 1882 to 1892, connected with the firm of R. B. Post & Son, wholesale grocers, New Orleans; in 1892, entered the employ of The Mutual Life Insurance Co. of New York, in New Orleans; was transferred to Milwaukee, Wis., in 1893; in 1903, was made mgr. of the company for the territory of Northern Michigan and Northern Wisconsin; the following year, was put in charge of the company's interests in Indiana, with headquarters in Indianapolis; was appointed mgr. for Northwestern Ohio, in 1907; member Euclid, and Athletic Clubs, and Chamber of Commerce.
Biographical Sketch of Ernest M. Post
MLA Source Citation:The Book of Clevelanders: A Biographical Dictionary of Living Men of the City of Cleveland. Burrows Book Company. 1914. AccessGenealogy.com. Web. 16 December 2014. http://www.accessgenealogy.com/ohio/biographical-sketch-of-ernest-m-post.htm - Last updated on Feb 19th, 2012
Categories: Connecticut, Louisiana, Ohio, Virginia, Wisconsin
Topics: Biography
Locations: Avoca Louisiana, Cleveland Ohio, Cuyahoga County OH, Fairfield County CT, Hanover County VA, Hanover Virginia, Milwaukee County WI, Milwaukee Wisconsin, New Orleans Louisiana, Norwalk Connecticut, St. Mary County LA
Surnames: Post
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I'm a firm believer that you can never have enough bold, beautiful and thick lashes! I've tried every mascara avialable and some have done a good job in amplifying my lashes but nothing has done a better job than Younique Moodstruck 3D Fiber Lashes. With this product I get the look of false lashes without the hassle, uncomfortable feeling or the price!
Younique Moodstruck 3D Fiber Lashes is easy to apply. Simply put on a thin coat of your favorite mascara, then apply a thin coat of Younique's Transplanting Gel on lashes (do one side at a time). Immediatly after, before the Transplating Gel can dry, apply a layer of 3D Fibers to lashes. Apply as much as you want for your desired results, just be sure to "seal" the fibers with more Transplanting Gel.
As you can see, the results are VERY dramatic! The Younique Moodstruck 3D Fiber Lashes Kit comes in a nice case and with easy to understand directions. I'm excited to have the Younique Moodstruck 3D Fiber Lashes kit as part of my routine. I've paid as much as $40 for a mediocre mascara in the past so to find out that the Younique Moodstruck 3D Fiber Lashes is only $29, I am really happy! It's not only extremely effective, its also affordable!
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