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QPR boss Harry Redknapp admits the Sky Bet Championship play-offs are too close to call.
Rangers will take on Wigan in the first leg on Friday while Derby face Brighton in the other semi-final.
"Wigan will be a tough game - they're a very good side," said Redknapp.
"Being at home in the second leg is important for us, but our only focus at the minute is on preparing for Friday at their place.
"I think there are four very evenly-matched teams in the play-offs.
"Everyone will head into them confident of promotion, but we'll just have to wait and see what happens.
"This league is so unpredictable, and I don't see the play-offs being any different. It's all up for grabs for us - we're going to give it a right go."


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If you're celebrating the upcoming 4th of July holiday, get out the watercolors and create a fun decoration to give your holiday party a festive look. We've done these painted plates with rainbow colors, now we're painting with red and blue to… Continue Reading →
Ahh watermelons! They just speak summer don't they? Summer days are hot and muggy and sometimes you need a little help cooling off. Make this fun fan from a paper plate and a jumbo craft stick to keep yourself cool… Continue Reading →
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Lawmakers expand Medicaid in final budget voting
Achadjian said he opposed the federal health care law but believed he should vote to implement it in California now that it has been upheld by the Supreme Court.
"There are many of those who cannot afford it otherwise in my district who will benefit from this act," he said after the vote.
Anderson, vice chairman of the Senate Health Committee, acted for similar reasons but also had pressed for a provision that would allow the state to back out of the Medicaid expansion if the federal government reduces support in the future. He acknowledged that politics can sometimes make strange bedfellows.
"I opposed it for two years," he told The Associated Press after the vote. "Now I'm a champion trying to ensure that it has a fighting chance for survival."
The Medi-Cal vote came a day after the Legislature passed the main bill to enact California's spending plan for the fiscal year that starts July 1. Lawmakers approved so-called trailer bills that implement certain parts of the budget on Saturday, their deadline to send a balanced budget to the governor.
One bill reduced state funding to counties to provide indigent care and public health services as a result of moving more people into Medi-Cal. The move was met with strong opposition by lawmakers representing rural counties who worried about being shortchanged.
Another action concerned a proposed constitutional amendment seeking to lower the vote threshold from two-thirds to 55 percent for cities and counties to pass bond measures, primarily to support local law enforcement and fire protection. The lower threshold already applies to school districts.
Republican lawmakers said the amendment was meant to get around the provisions of Proposition 13, which caps property tax assessments.
The proposal, which requires voter approval, passed in the Assembly but will be considered later in the Senate, meaning it was not part of the budget process.
Buoyed by supermajorities in both chambers and higher-than-anticipated tax revenue, Democratic lawmakers have been able to restore some of the money that was slashed during the recession for mental health treatment, health care for the poor and higher education.
Those partial restorations were possible even as they stuck to Democratic Gov. Jerry Brown's more-conservative revenue projections.
Republicans were largely excluded from the budget negotiations and blasted the Democratic agreement as too costly given California's debts, including tens of billions of dollars in unfunded public employee pension and retiree health care liabilities.
Under the spending plan, K-12 school districts will receive more money, particularly those with high levels of students who come from low-income families, who are not proficient in English or who are foster children. Districts also will have more control over how they spend state aid and will receive a one-time infusion of $1.2 billion to implement "common core," a more rigorous academic standard intended to better prepare students for college and a career.
Another measure that passed Saturday will set aside $305 million annually for college scholarships for students whose families make less than $150,000 a year. The so-called middle class scholarships would be available starting in the 2014 academic year.
Associated Press writer Tom Verdin contributed to this report.
The Associated Press


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One major criticism of the Indian Police is that its public relations are poor. It does not project itself properly nor does it have a clue on what most of the consumers of its service want. As a consequence, it has acquired the image of a conservative and non-caring agency with stagnant views on methods of policing.
So many scholars and police practitioners have written voluminously on the subject pleading that a consumer-oriented approach will do a world of good to the weary and weather-beaten image of the Police. Some of the works have been pedestrian, and a few strikingly refreshing.
Of the latter category is the treatise of Rohit Choudhary, an IGP of the Punjab cadre of the IPS. To his great advantage is his academic credentials — an IIT degree in engineering coupled with an IIM education. His assessment is that the police in the country can come out of the rut by adopting a modern marketing strategy that will not only improve its image of a traditional force but make it a much more effective and acceptable agency.
Choudhary is methodical and disciplined in presenting his thesis. His volume is neatly divided into two parts —'assessment and analysis' and 'recommendations.' For the first, he draws heavily on his knowledge of practices in the police force of the United Kingdom. This is the right approach because I have studied that force at close quarters and have been impressed with the modern mind of its leaders, who are forever experimenting with new ways to policing a nation that is fast acquiring all the complexities and woes of a Third World country. Illustrations from a few other countries such as the United States, Japan, Germany, and South Africa add weight to the book.
There are also glimpses of the history of Indian Police, something that will interest a foreign scholar. Such a peep into the past is fast becoming irrelevant in view of the sea-change in what the police are required to do in these tumultuous days when terrorism strikes us at every conceivable opportunity, and events like 26/11 make us wonder whether our policemen are really equipped to handle such catastrophes.
Except in brief, he does not answer the question how a marketing approach will prepare us better to cope with a terrorist assault. Perhaps a marketing-orientation helps the police to render a better account of themselves only in normal times.
Key concept
Customer Relationship Management (CRM) is a key concept in modern management that Choudhary recommends for unqualified adoption by the police. In police parlance this is analogous to the Police-Community Relations (PCR) that law enforcement agencies the world over have been practising for several decades with varying degrees of success. My own feeling is that PCR and its offspring, Community Policing, have had a modest impact on public perceptions of the police in our country.
The section on 'recommendations' gives meat for police reforms. Not that everything the author says is novel. A number of his suggestions are however practical and promising. He argues, rightly so, in favour of empowerment of the lower rungs of the police, one sure way of paving the way for innovation. In the higher echelons, there is a mindset that acts as a brake to decentralisation and encouragement of the bold and enterprising among those who languish at the bottom of the hierarchy. This is unfortunate at a time when more and more of the educated are coming to the agency with great hopes of making a tangible contribution to serving the community. At the same time, Choudhary warns that empowerment has to be accompanied by a sense of direction, without which we will be confronted by anarchy. There is also the need for a greater use of technology in policing. Such use will have to be systematically planned with the help of strategy groups. Otherwise, technology will be more a showpiece than an instrument for effective service delivery.
I am impressed with Choudhary's scholarship and knowledge of what is happening in the realm of modern policing in various corners of the world. His volume is a useful exposure to many of our officers who do not otherwise have the time to learn from the experiences of fellow-policemen elsewhere in the globe.
POLICING — Reinvention Strategies in a Marketing Framework: Rohit Choudhary; Sage Publications India Pvt. Ltd., B 1/I-1, Mohan Cooperative Industrial Area, Mathura Road, New Delhi-110044. Rs. 395.
Keywords: Police, Social unrest, CRM, PCR


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Comments Posted By Vraja Kishor
Displaying 1 To 29 Of 29 Comments
Astrological Mysteries of Sridham Mayapur
As you know: The Sun moves north and south of the equator. The northern tropic is called "Cancer" because the Sun enters Cancer Rasi when it reaches that northernmost latitude. The southern tropic is called "Capricorn" because the Sun enters Capricorn Rasi when it reaches that southernmost latitude. When the Sun is over the equator it can either be in Libra or Aries. If it is northward bound it is entering Aries. If southward bound it enters Libra. Thus all the four cardinal points and signs are mapped.
» Posted By Vraja Kishor On Nov 2, 2012 @ 1:35 am
Your point is that in parts of the earth that are between the two tropics, the Sun can go directly overhead at some time of the year and therefore those parts of the earth are "bright." And outside that tropical region the Sun cannot come to the sky's zenith, and therefore those parts of earth are "dark." Therefore the land situated on a tropic line (Cancer or Capricorn) are bordering / bridging / blending the light and dark?
Very interesting and a novel way to discuss Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu!
Do you have any thoughts as to why that particular LATITUDE?
» Posted By Vraja Kishor On Nov 1, 2012 @ 6:41 am
Here is rather surprising hard evidence that Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati, Gaudiya Math members including Sridhara Swami (and even Srila Prabhupada) used the Tropical Zodiac for rashi calculations:
PS: SS 1.28 says that the circle is made of 12 signs, each of 30 degrees, each of 60 minutes, each of 60 seconds. I think it is silly that anyone will accept this as a sidereal definition of the zodiac. Sidereal means in reference to a star. There is no mention of a star in SS 1.28. On the other hand my quotes from Bhagavatam and Surya Siddhanta explicitly show the 12 signs achored to equinoxes and solstices (the definition of "tropical"). The tropical definitions I have quoted are very clear and thorough and straightforward. The SS 1.28 this article quotes does not make a sidereal reference at all.
» Posted By Vraja Kishor On Dec 7, 2012 @ 8:25 am
In your original article you argued that the previous text (27) sets a sidereal context. I do not see why you say that, except that in the translation presented by Danavir Goswāmī the word "Revatī" is used. Even then it has a footnote admitting that "Revatī" is not literally in the text itself. The text itself only says, "antebhagaṇa" – the end of the orbit / circle.
It seems straightforward that SS 1.28 shows how to measure the speed of the planets by dividing their orbit into units of seconds, minutes, degrees, and "groups" / rāśi. This is the context set by the verses immediately proceeding and following 1.28. Thus there is nothing inherently sidereal or tropical about SS 1.28, except that it demonstrates that rāśi are mathematical constructs, not literal stars or constellations; which detracts from the motivation to consider the rāśi stellar phenomena.
On to another topic:
You want to demonstrate the 22nd chapter to conclude that the rāśi and nakṣatra are fixed to one another. If so how will you avoid contradicting the principle of ayanāṁśa based on SS 3.9: "In one age (yuga) the circle of stars lags behind 600 revolutions towards the east."?
Glad to have the blessing of your association in this discussion,
Your servant,
Vraja Kishor das
» Posted By Vraja Kishor On Oct 30, 2012 @ 1:23 am
Honestly, let's compare the statements up for election as the definition of "rāśi"…
SS 14.7-10 says they are tropical:
"It is well-known that the circle of signs is split by two diameters. One is the line from equinox to equinox. The other is the line from solstice to solstice. Between each solstice and equinox are two other markers. Each solstice /equinox and the two following markers represent the three strides of Vishnu.
"The Sun has entered Capricorn when it begins moving north for six months. It has entered Cancer when it begins moving south for six months. Seasons last for two signs each, beginning from Capricorn with the frozen season. The twelve signs named Aries, etc. are the months which altogether comprise the year."
SB 5.21.3-5 (mirroring Viṣṇu, Matsya and perhaps other Puranas) says they are tropical:
"Outer space is measured by relation of heaven and earth. The Sun is the king of all the planets, in the center of everything, keeping everything together. It moves to the north, crosses the equator, and moves to the south. When it goes north of the equator days get longer. When it crosses the equator days and nights are equal. When it goes south of the equator days get shorter. On this basis the Sun moves through the twelve divisions called Capricorn and so forth.
"The Sun is at Aries and Libra when the days and nights are equal. Passing through Taurus, etc. the days become longer and then decrease until again equal with the night. Passing through Scorpio, etc. the night becomes longer and then decrease to again become equal with the days."
I think these are very explicit and straightforward definitions of what the rāśi are. You want to dismiss these are being secondary to SS 1.28:
"60 seconds (vikāla) make a minute. 60 minutes (kāla) make a degree. 30 degrees (bhaga) make a sign. 12 signs (rāśi) complete the circle/orbit (bhagaṇa)."
This is obviously a lot less explicit and complete a definition than the previous two statements. But even if we accept this as another definition of rāśi, I find nothing in it stipulating that the seconds, minutes and degrees of the rāśi are relative to a specific star [sidereal] and not to the equinoxes and solstices [tropical].
» Posted By Vraja Kishor On Oct 30, 2012 @ 1:22 am
Dear Antardwip Prabhu,
Your devotion in responding, and the clarity and honesty with which you did so, has moved me to respond. Thank you very much for your clear statements, I deeply appreciate your effort.
I enjoy discussing this topic with you. Clearly your heart and mind are pure. It is a pleasure to be in your association.
Some notes, please respond to them if needed:
You rest your argument on Sanskrit declinations, saying that SB 5.21.3-5 cannot be a "definition" of the rāśi because the declination used there is locative, but that SS 1.28 is a "definition" of the rasis because the declination used there is nominative.
First, is there a grammatical rule or principle that nominative case must be used in a definition and locative case cannot? If so, what if we are defining a location – how shall we word the definition? The rashi's are locations through which the planets move. Naturally when being defined the locative case must be used.
» Posted By Vraja Kishor On Oct 30, 2012 @ 1:20 am
Your previous post has completely ignored that Srimad Bhagavatam and Surya Siddhanta (not Vic DiCara / Vraja Kishor) define the zodiac tropically.
All things must be understood in context. We have clear, undeniable definitions from absolutely essential shastra stating that the zodiac is tropical. Other statements must be understood within that context. The statement of Varahamihira was a true statement at the time it was made. To insist that it is a true statement today requires that you devalue the definitions of the zodiac in Srimad Bhagavatam and Surya Siddhanta. I therefore don't accept that opinion.
Yes, I talk about "my opinion", "my understanding", and "my belief" because thanks to the hard work of the Vaishnavas I have come to admit that I can always be wrong, and that everyone has their own opinion. Even Krishna acknowledges this and speaks in this manner.
I should not engage in controversy and argument with anyone, especially not great souls such as yourselves. Therefore I purify myself with the dust left behind from your exalted footsteps. I aspire that it is in the humble spirit of service that I do not wish to allow this point to go undefended. However I must now acknowledge that I have said everything I have to say on the subject – between my original article (http://www.dandavats.com/?p=10661) and the comments here. I will now beg your permission to allow my departure from this conversation.
If anyone wishes to know my opinion on any new facet of this discussion, please contact me personally. It is easy to find me on the internet.
It has been an honor to discuss the subject with devotees of Sri Hari. I hope that after all, in some way you will be pleased with me and give your blessings to me for the cultivation of Sri Krishna prema.
Your servant,
Vraja Kishor
Hare Krishna, Hare Krishna
Krishna Krishna, Hare Hare
Hare Rama, Hare Rama,
Rama Rama, Hare Hare.
Vanca kalpa tarubhyas ca
Krpa sindhubya eva ca
Patitanam pavanebhyo
Vaishnavebhyo namo namah
» Posted By Vraja Kishor On Oct 26, 2012 @ 12:45 am
Dear Antardwipa Prabhu,
Thank you for participating directly! It is kind of you.
No, in my opinion you have certainly not demonstrated a sidereal definition of the 12 signs in Vedic literature. You have, however, demonstrated the use of an application of 12 rashi segments in circular geometry applied to the sidereal ecliptic.
What I mean: Shastra defines the rashis as segments of the Sun's travel from solstice to equinox. That is what the rashis inherently are. The same system of mathematics dividing the 360 degrees of a circle into 30 degree segments, and dividing each degree into 60 minutes and each minute into 60 seconds, which derives from the 12 segments of the Sun's travel from equinox to solstice, etc., is used to calculate / describe sidereal positions. That is not what the rashi are, it is just one application of their principle.
That is my understanding. How do you feel about it?
Thank you.
Your servant,
Vraja Kishor das
» Posted By Vraja Kishor On Oct 24, 2012 @ 10:17 am
Why should we assume anything? We know from Atharva and Rg that the Vedics had 27 ecliptic constellations, into which Vega (Abhijit) was also often included.
This very simply and obviously illustrates my point that the sidereal chakra has 27 divisions [not 13, or 14, and certainly not 12].
With respect,
Vraja Kishor das
PS. Regarding the quote from Brhat Jataka, you are repeating that from the article itself and I have already stated my opinion of your use of that quote.
» Posted By Vraja Kishor On Oct 23, 2012 @ 12:33 am
Your article was well written and researched. Thank you for the excellent effort. In it you have clearly demonstrated that 30 degree units called rashis can also be used to make sidereal measurements. However you failed to counter-argue the fact that rashis by definition are inherently tropical, as presented in my argument (http://vicdicara.com/12-signs-of-the-zodiac-1.php).
If this discussion of the zodiac helps us remember Krishna it is useful. Since you are both, Syamasundar and Antardwipa, dear servant of the servant of Krishna, my hope is that the dust of your feet will always be falling towards my lowered head. Please forgive the academic nature of discussion in which this person speaks up with an equal voice in a spirit of healthy debate.
Hare Krishna.
Your servant,
Vraja Kishor das
» Posted By Vraja Kishor On Oct 22, 2012 @ 3:25 am
I agree that calculations of planetary revolutions per Surya Siddhānta are done with reference to Revatī, and that these reference points are observably fixed and stable. As you noted, this data is calculated first (in chapter 2), and then the lagna is calculated tropically (in chapter 3). If one wants planetary positions in reference to the nakṣatra, there is no further work to be done. If one wants the sidereal location of the lagna, the ayana must be subtracted from it. If one wants planetary positions in reference to the rashi (not as mathematical sections, but as actual rāśi themselves, divisions of space relative to the equinox), one must add the ayana to the previous calculations.
You quoted Bhāgavatam 5.22.2, but I feel you have misrepresented. It does define the planets moving differently than the signs and nakshatras. However, it does not state that the signs and nakshatras do not move with respect to one another. This is an implication which you infer, it is not in the text itself.
It is misleading in the extreme to say that 5.22.2 gives a sidereal "definition" of the zodiac signs. A definition has already been given in 5.21.2-6 (and that definition is tropical). Definitions are explicit. They are not analogies. Furthermore, your inference from the analogy certainly does not qualify as a "definition."
5.22.5 explains that a solar month is equivalent [not identical] to 2.25 nakshatras. Sripad Vijayadhvaj Tirtha is from the 15th century and explained this according to the prevalent custom of his time.
Varaha Mihira also spoke accurately of the correlation of stars and signs extant at his time. As he pointed out, the size of a navāmśa and the size of a nakṣatra pada are identical, and therefore the size of a rashi equals 9 nakṣatra pada.
I agree that Varaha Mihira was aware of the distinction between the tropical and sidereal chakra. I believe the confusion amongst Indian astrologers gradually arose over the several following centuries.
» Posted By Vraja Kishor On Oct 22, 2012 @ 3:24 am
Dear Antardwipa Dasa and Shyamasundara Dasa,
Respectful thanks a well written and knowledgeable article. I will reply to a few points.
You expressed uncertainty about my phrase "center of space." I use that phrase to refer to the point at which the ecliptic intersects the equator, providing a "center" for observational space.
The fact that there are not 12 equal-sized constellations among the stars is only one of several observations depreciating the concept that the 12 signs are intrinsically stellar. But even so, you proceeded on with your article without offering any specific counterpoint to this particular observation.
I agree that the rashi system (12 sections of 30 degrees) can be, and often is, abstracted to a mathematical principle of circular geometry, including the measure of sidereal phenomenon. However, the actual rashi themselves are intrinsically tropical (i.e. defined with reference to solstice and equinox) as per Surya Siddhānta 14.7-10 and the Puranas viz. Bhāgavatam 5.21.2-6.
Thus SS 1.28 states that such a system of seconds, degrees, signs, etc. can be used to measure sidereal space. But SS 14.7-10 makes it explicitly clear that the 12 signs themselves (not as mathematical abstractions, but the signs themselves) are tropical. SS 1.28 does not say that the signs are sidereal, merely it states that 12 divisions of 30 degrees is used to measure sidereal space. Thus I agree that both tropical and sidereal space can be measured in 12 30 degree sections. However, the origin of the 30 degree system is tropical – and thus the 12 30 degree signs are inherently tropical, although they have sidereal mathematical application.
I agree with and appreciate your statement that certain calculations (declination, rising signs, etc) are impossible to make without a tropical zodiac.
You make an interesting statement that planetary longitude is not included among the tropical calculations indicated in Surya Siddhānta. My reply: (a) As you noted, the Siddhānta uses the word "etcetera" (adhikam) in its list of this to be tropically figured. (b) Planetary positions amongst the sidereal nakṣatra is very important, in fact far more important to the original indigenous Vedic astrology, than planetary positions among the 12 signs.
» Posted By Vraja Kishor On Oct 22, 2012 @ 3:23 am
As soon as there is comet, there will be some disaster
Dear Vaishnav Das,
Thank you for an interesting article. I like the 14th chapter of the 1st canto for a rich description of omens, given by King Yudhisthira. You may enjoy re-reading that section.
Essentially, whenever something unexpected happens, it's a bad omen. The majority of omens fall into this category. (Wolves howling at the sun instead of the moon. Dogs being arrogant instead of humble.) This is quite practical, really, because when you see something not going right, it means things are going wrong. Stars, for example, are supposed to be fixed in the sky. They are not supposed to fall out of the sky. "Ketu" although the name for a quasi-planet, is also a generic term for falling stars, which include meteors, commets, and all that sort of stuff.
If it was so simple that whenever there was a comet there was a war – (a) we would have a LOT more wars, and (b) we would know exactly when the next one would come. So, obviously it's not that simple.
Another portion of omens is practical and symbolic: for example if you see scarey birds flourishing and peaceful birds dying – that is a bad omen.
Omens are fascinating, and are a useful way to listen more closely to Paramatma.
I hope this information is useful.
Hare Krishna,
Vraja Kishor das
» Posted By Vraja Kishor On Oct 5, 2012 @ 3:01 am
There is so much discussion, but it would be better to be quiet and wait for the article. The position I present is extremely simple:
(1) Shastra defines a tropical zodiac and does not define a sidereal zodiac (for rashis).
Anyone is welcome to counter this point with quotation from Shastra that does define the zodiacs 12 rashi in a sidereal manner – and then discussion can proceed.
No one is doing that. Instead everyone veers the discussion towards their idea of what Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati thinks of my argument. Sarasvati Prabhupada is not here to state his opinion. I feel that on this matter I at least represent his fidelity to scripture and willingness to defy social custom in the process. If you feel so strongly that he would disagree with me, that take what you feel would be his position and explain his arguments.
My article that we are commenting on may be used as my response to previous publications by HG Shyama Sundar Prabhu and others.
If anyone wishes more information on me and my background pertinent to astrology, here it is: http://vicdicara.com/about.php
The calendar topic is also largely a diversion, since my own argument is that nakshatras are unequivocally sidereal, and the vaishnava calendar is almost entirely based upon nakshatra and tithi.
Wishing to serve you in anyway possible, and praying for your patience.
Your servant,
Vraja Kishor das
» Posted By Vraja Kishor On Oct 21, 2012 @ 2:46 am
Dear Sitalatma Ji,
Hare Krishna. Please accept my respects.
I believe that Guru and Shastra are not independent of one another. A guru who teaches what is not in shastra is not a guru. A guru can claim "Only I can really understand the shastra" but that is fishy, and therefore we have sadhus as the third check and balance.
However, I hate to be the bearer of bad news, but the idea that there are astrological "gurus" with bona-fide astrological "parampara" is just a dream, a fantasy. There are people out there who think they have a "guru" – and in a sense they do. But this guru is not divinely ordained by a spiritual parampara. Such a thing simply does not exist in the astrological world.
So let us not run for smoke and mirrors: "You have not asked the question correctly , that's why we refuse to explain why we are not wrong." Or "You do not have a guru, that's why you cannot understand why we are never wrong."
Let us be practical and honest. All the Purana's, including Bhagavat, define the 12 signs tropically (ie. anchored to tropical events – the solstices and equinoxes). The Surya Siddhanta also does. None of them do so with any vagueness, all are very direct, straightforward and unequivocal. There is not a sidereal definition of zodiac signs to be found. Therefore where is the "guru" who has the bile to say that it is "Vedic" to use a sidereal zodiac.
I am sorry to argue with you – you are a Vaishnava so I take the dust of your feet upon my head if ever I get blessed with the opportunity. It is merely in this academic matter that I debate you. Please forgive.
Your servant,
Vraja Kishor das
» Posted By Vraja Kishor On Oct 19, 2012 @ 2:29 am
Dear Shyamasundar Ji,
I am looking forward to reading your "Tale of Two Zodiacs." Please refrain from misrepresenting me as someone who does not follow authorities. I have presented my argument based on the authority of Bhagavatam and Surya Siddhanta. There is no better authority. If you can prove your point with similarly excellent authoritative statements I will be happy and satisfied, and well-educated by your good self.
Hare Krishna.
Your servant,
Vraja Kishor
» Posted By Vraja Kishor On Oct 15, 2012 @ 1:14 am
The thread of comments has come to paint a "Vraja Kishor vs. Bhaktisiddhanta" marquee. This is unfair because no one has shown that Bhaktisiddhanta ever even expressed an opinion on this issue. For my part I know that Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati Maharaja was faithful first and foremost to Sastra. My argument is my own small attempt to be faithful to Sastra. Therefore I will not accept the role of being the opponent of His Divine Grace. We are most certainly on the same side, I under the protection of the shade of his lotus feet.
The comments have become very long and I hope that the good readers will refer again to the original article so as not to lose the scope.
I would like to stop replying to comments now, to preserve my time and energy. But if someone kindly posts something of great merit I will reply. I am looking forward to see what new article come forward, as promised by Sriman Shyamasundar Prabhu and Sriman Antardvip Prabhu. I look forward to the content being logical and based on shastra, and the arguments being written out clearly.
» Posted By Vraja Kishor On Sep 17, 2012 @ 3:19 am
Please allow me to make a few new statements:
It is not accurate to depict me as a lone maverick championing an oddball cause. I am merely doing my part and carrying the torch. Many, many important personalities before me have discovered and advocated the same reform I am championing. Similarly there are many others who currently share this opinion with me.
In fact, even the very committee who recommended the Lahiri sidereal ayanamsha as the Indian standard in the 1950s expressly stated that it was only a partial reform, and that further reform was required to return the zodiac to proper alignment with tropical seasons. Here are their words, and background, copied from research published by Dieter Koch.
Lahiri was inspired by the astronomy historian S. B. Dikshita, who in the late 19th century wrote an important book on the history of Indian astronomy [History of Indian Astronomy, Part II]. Dikshita came to the conclusion that, given the prominence that Vedic religion gave to the cardinal points of the tropical year, the Indian calendar should be reformed and no longer be based on the sidereal, but on the tropical zodiac. However, if such a reform could not be brought about due to the rigid conservatism of contemporary Vedic culture, one should choose the Ayanāṃśa in such a way that the sidereal zero point was in opposition to Spica, because this would be in accordance with the zodiac of the 16th century astronomer Ganeśa Daivajña.
A similar point of view was maintained by the Calendar Reform Committee, when it recommended the Lahiri Ayanāṃśa: "This recommendation is to be regarded only as a measure of compromise, so that we avoid a violent break with the established custom. But it does not make our present seasons in the various months as they were in the days of Varahamihira or Kalidasa. It is hoped that at not a distant date, further reforms for locating the lunar and solar festivals in the seasons in which they were originally observed will be adopted." (Calendar Reform Committee Report, p. 5)
» Posted By Vraja Kishor On Sep 17, 2012 @ 3:18 am
Dear Somayaji,
Hare Krishna.
You asked me to explain how others discredit the shastra in an attempt to refute the argument I (and others) present. The response is to say, "Śrīmad Bhāgavatam and Surya Siddhanta are not relevant to Jyotish."
You asked me to explain loka-praman. Loka-pramana is "hearsay" and "word-of-mouth." It is, essentially "public opinion." Śrīla Jīva Goswāmī Prabhupāda lists it as one of 10 types of Pramana in his Tattva-Sandarbha, but counts it among those which are subservient and unimportant in comparison to the three main pranama (methods of knowing): Sastra / Sabdha (hearing from authority), Anuman (logic), and Pratyaksha (experience). Out of those main three, Sastra is paramount, according to Śrī Jīva.
The difference between hearing from authority and hearing public opinion is clear. Thus if the sastra contradicts a local custom or tradition, it is the custom or tradition which requires correction. In this case Śrīmad –Bhāgavatam, Surya-Siddhanta, and other Puranas contradict, explicitly, the current Indian custom / tradition of considering the 12 signs to be sidereally rooted. So this custom needs to be corrected.
People have attempted to put me at odds with Śrī Śrīmad Bhaktisiddhānta Sarasvatī Ṭhākura, whose feet I am not qualified to keep even on my head, though I do hope to carry them within my heart. However, no one has yet demonstrated that Sarasvatī Prabhupāda expressed any clear opposition to the tropical zodiac. I am indebted to those who have brought Bhaktisiddhanta Vaibhava to my attention, a most excellent book. I have not finished reading it yet, but so far it does not say anything conclusive about Prabhupāda having a firm stance on this issue.
If it has been demonstrated that Bhaktisiddhanta took a specific stance on this issue, I have missed it. Please bring it again to my attention.
Regarding Siddhanta Sarasvati Prabhupāda's stance against Śrī Bapudev Sastri, et. al.: It is not clear from the book what topic the debate was over. It could very likely have nothing to do with tropical vs. sidereal. It seems more likely that it had to do with astronomical calculations, whether it was feasible to stick with the formulas given in Surya Siddhanta, or if those should be abandoned in favor of modern Western techniques. (This was recently a small debate in the Jyotish world as well, "SSS vs. Drik.")
» Posted By Vraja Kishor On Sep 17, 2012 @ 3:17 am
Re: 25
It is not perplexing at all, it is a mistake. I make mistakes. If you point them out to me, as you have kindly done, I admit them and try to correct them and/or not make them again.
Kindly stay on point and see if there are any mistakes in my presentation of Shastric Tropical Zodiac definitions from Srimad Bhagavatam and Surya Siddhanta. If there are, kindly point these out in a logical manner, if possible without unnecessary scathe. Please do not be diverted into tangential analysis of my grammar and spelling, etc.
Hare Krishna. Please forgive my bluntness.
Your servant,
Vraja Kishor das
» Posted By Vraja Kishor On Sep 10, 2012 @ 1:49 am
It is an excellent book. I have not yet finished reading it. In this consideration we need access to exact details before we can know Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati's stance on this issue, or, second best, can very confidently extrapolate what his stance would be.
The book itself repeats a well known fact that Bhaktisiddhanta was not a Jataka, ever. The topic under discussion here is Jataka Jyotisha. Therefore even once we know confidently what Bhaktisiddhanta's opinion on the definition of the zodiac starting point; still we have to take that point into careful consideration.
For my part, the Srimad Bhagavatam is exceedingly clear. As is the 14th chapter of Surya Siddhanta. As are other Purana's such as the Vishnu Purana. And there is even scope to bring in Rg Veda showing the importance of the equinox in defining the 12 divisions.
» Posted By Vraja Kishor On Aug 22, 2012 @ 6:12 pm
PS – still it is perplexing how one could argue that the equinox is fixed in relation to the stars. HH Bhakti Vaibhava's wording in this part of the presentation is very ambiguous. It could very well mean that the equinox is the point which fixes the zodiac – that the zodiac does not move in relation to the equinox – i.e. that the zodiac is anchored to the equinoxes. This would make the statement conform to Surya Siddhanta 14.7-10, etc. and is a tropical zodiac.
Is there another interpretation? "the matter rested on the precision of the equinox, which in Vedic astronomy is made from a fixed point of the zodiac." There seems to be no astronomically feasible way in which the equinox is fixed to a sidereal zodiac.
So, still we are hungry for source material and more detail.
» Posted By Vraja Kishor On Aug 13, 2012 @ 1:43 am
Thank you Vyasadeva Ji for your clarifications. It does seem from HH Bhakti Vikasa Swami's presentation that Srila Bhaktisiddhanta took a stance against Sri Bapudev Shastri, Mahesha-candra Nyayaratna (Head of the Sanskrit college), Pandita Pancanana Sahityacarya was (Head of the astronomy department of the college, and "the greatest astronomer in Bengal") and other luminaries who wished to reform the Indian astronomical / astrological system from the sidereal zodiac. It also seems that the matter which concerned Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Saraswati was the humiliation and public defeat of a champion of atheism. It seems that astronomy was only a tool or front to achieve that end.
I just ordered the 3 volumes of Sri Bhaktisiddhanta Vaibhava and am looking forward to reading them.
Regarding my grammar. I write everything by myself, and usually publish the first drafts. If you know of anyone who would like to volunteer for proofreading, it would be a great favor to let me know.
Hare Krishna.
Thank you,
Vic DiCara
» Posted By Vraja Kishor On Aug 13, 2012 @ 1:37 am
Sitalama Ji,
Thank you. That is an excellent quote.
"One of his pupils" means one of Bhaktisiddhanta's pupils? So the argument was not made directly by Bhaktisiddhanta, but by his pupil?
"The precession of the equinox, … is made from a fixed point of the zodiac [in Vedic astronomy]." Is an astronomically perplexing statement [i.e. astronomically impossible, a contradiction in terms], suggesting that HH Bhakti Vikasha Swami, due to a lack of astronomical experience, may have introduced something inaccurate in his otherwise superb presentation and effort. It would be good to get the source material and investigate.
Thank you,
Vraja Kishor das
» Posted By Vraja Kishor On Aug 12, 2012 @ 12:39 am
Dear Friends,
Please know that I am merely glancing upward from the shadow of your feet, desiring to attain by your mercy a speck of devotion to Sri Krishna. Thank you for your affectionate attention. I welcome your corrections, and if they are good I will surely embrace them.
So far neither Sriman Syamasundar nor anyone else has ever produced a single reference from Shastra defining the zodiac in a sidereal manner. Quite the contrary many people, including even my insignificant self, have directly quoted explicit tropical definitions of the zodiac from Srimad Bhagavatam, Surya Siddhanta, Vishnu Purana, and Rg Veda. So, we have shastra-pramana.
I am asking the opposing view to present shastra-pramana, and if they cannot then I shall not heed their view. That is, I believe, exceedingly reasonable. It is not reasonable, as Syamasundara has done in the past, to discredit the validity or applicability of the sastra.
So far the opposing view only has loka-pramana. That is, they only have heresay and assumptions based on word of mouth and local customs. They try to use Srila Bhaktisiddhanta as leverage for their argument, but when I ask for proof that this great mahajana held the same opinions they do, I receive no reply.
All things considered, I beg to remain thoroughly unimpressed by the opposing view. I am openly inviting you to impress and educate me. I beg you to do it in an intellectual and rational manner.
Awaiting the opportunity to serve or assist your service to Sri Hari…
Your servant,
Vraja Kishor das
PS. In point of humor – I can tell if a comment will be favorable or unfavorable, so far, simply be seeing if the author addresses me as "Vic" or "Vraja Kishor" =)
» Posted By Vraja Kishor On Jul 23, 2012 @ 12:13 am
Dear Friends,
In an effort to keep my schedule and avoid confrontational interactions I will try to stop commenting after this post, unless someone asks or says something that I feel is unusually insightful. I apologize.
My closing notes:
There are no constants whatsoever in any corner of the entire material universes. Brahman alone is constant. Everything else is variable.
Matter has some distant relation to Brahman, thus in matter there is perhaps a single constant: change.
Change = motion. Thus everything is moving. The Sun is moving, the Earth is moving, the solar system is moving, the universes themselves are moving; everything is moving. It is not always EXPLAINED this way, because there is little PRACTICAL use in it. It is more practical and useful to take your locus standi as the stationary constant.
For example: A brick wall is stationary relative to the ground it stands on. But it is not stationary relative to a car smashing into it at 91mph.
It is a little confusing to understand relativity or the relativity of motion, therefore I request not to try to do it on the internet where rajo-guna predominates – but in the calmness of your quiet contemplation. I apologize that I may lack the ability to fully explain the topic to everyone, but I hope that if you carefully consider what I have written it will become crystal clear.
Thank you,
Vraja Kishor das
» Posted By Vraja Kishor On Jul 19, 2012 @ 12:33 am
Dear Abhirama Ji,
Thank you for your comment. I myself have also posted a challenge in several public forums to this effect: "Show me a single sidereal definition of the zodiac in any classical or ancient Indian literature. On the contrary I can show you several tropical definitions."
No one could reply.
I thought at least someone would try to put forward the Puranic correlations between nakshatra (stars) and rashis (signs). Even such a reply, however, is not substantial, because it always comes after the rashis are explicitly defined as solstice/equinox (tropical) phenomena.
It is very obvious that the original "Vedic" conception of the 12 zodiac signs is tropical. But getting people to admit this is difficult because of (a) habit, and (b) embarrassment – too many people will have to be humble and admit to fallibility. I am trying to show that the fallibility does not equate to uselessness, by pointing out that the zodiac is one of many parts of an astrological puzzle. But still, people, especially astrologers, don't like to admit that they made mistakes. I myself had to admit my mistake and break my habits to embrace the obvious tropical zodiac definitions.
Your servant,
Vraja Kishor das
» Posted By Vraja Kishor On Jul 17, 2012 @ 3:37 am
Dear Rohininandana Ji,
Hare Krishna. Thank you for your comment. It presents geocentric astronomy and heliocentric astronomy as being mutually contradictory. I would like to explain how the two types of astronomy are not mutually contradictory.
Car A drives down the street at 30 MPH. Car B moving at 20 MPH. The person in Car A observes the world is moving past her window at -30 MPH. And she observes Car B moving backwards at -10 MPH. The person in Car B, however, observes the world moving at -20 MPH and Car A moving forward at +10 MPH. Even more interesting: the people in Car A and the people in Car B both observe their interior of their own Cars to be stationary.
Car A and Car B are to real things co-existing, and their measurements and observations co-exist in reality. Relative motion is not mutually contradictory.
In the universe, time is active, therefore everything moves (time is realized by motion). [viz. Gita 13.20: prakṛtim puruṣam caiva viddhy anādī ubhāv api | vikārāmś ca guṇāmś caiva viddhi prakṛti-sambhavān "…In the material world, everything is in constant state of change."]
From whatever point we observe the universe, that point appears to be stationary. Since we stand upon the Earth, the most relevant and meaningful type of astronomy is earth-centric ("geo-centric"), in which the Sun moves around the earth, and the stars have their own motion relative to some pole.
But if you abstract your vantage point to the Sun (like switching from Car A to Car B) the Sun appears to be stationary, and everything else revolves around it. In fact nothing is really stationary, everything is in constant flux.
As the example with the Cars evidenced, relative motion co-exists without cancellation or contradiction. The person in Car A measuring Car B to have a -10MPH motion is right and accurate. And the person on the sidewalk measuring Car B to have +20MPH motion is also right and accurate. And the person in the back seat of Car B reading a book experiencing Car B to have 0MPH motion is also right and accurate – all of them relative to their locus standi. Thus Helio and geo centrism are not at all mutually-contradictory.
Hopefully this is a clear explanation and you are open to it. Thank you for your attention.
Your servant,
Vraja Kishor das
» Posted By Vraja Kishor On Jul 13, 2012 @ 3:13 am
«« Back To Stats Page
Dear Shyamasundara Prabhu,
You are very welcome to discuss the issue with me first privately if you like – it may iron out many points, for both of us. You can reach me privately via this page: http://vicdicara.com/contact.php
Your servant,
Vraja Kishor das
Dear Atmavidya Dasa,
Your message is based on the idea that for "thousands of yugas" Indian astrology has been done with the sidereal zodiac signs. Do you have any hard evidence for this at all? Do you have hard evidence that any of the exemplary mathematicians you mentioned considered the 12 zodiac signs to be sidereal in origin?
In this article I presented clear and explicit evidence from Surya Siddhanta and Srimad Bhagavatam that just the opposite is true – that the original Indian conception of the 12 signs is tropical. I also have evidence that the same conception exists in Rg Veda. Therefore it appears that what I am presenting is faithful to the shastra. If you have evidence to the contrary please present it.
If possible please try to avoid elaborate insults, as it makes it more difficult to concentrate on the real issues.
Thank you,
Vraja Kishor das
» Posted By Vraja Kishor On Jul 11, 2012 @ 5:12 am
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text:
Warren Spector wants to make a DuckTales game
...and I want him to make one. Don't you?
DuckTales is my jam, ooOOOoooh. In fact, I'm all for all the Capcom and Disney games that featured the duck (or the mouse), especially back in the 8 and 16-bit era. My favorite? A Japan-only QuackShot port for the Sega Saturn, which I proudly show off to visitors. None of them seem to care, naturally. Well, Warren Spector would. I doubt he's ever coming over to see my Saturn Collection, but if he did, we'd play QuackShot, some Magical Drop, and then talk about how Epic Mickey could be on any console, and not just the Wii.
Spector is all about Capcom's classic and says that he would love to make another. He told Industry Gamers in an interview thatt, "A day does not go by where I don't tell somebody at Disney: 'Uncle Scrooge, come on! Donald! Huey, Dewey, and Louie! Come on, let me do a duck game!' So yeah, I would love to do a duck game."
Man, just thinking about this game makes me want to bust out the NES now.
Warren Spector really wants to make a DuckTales game [Joystiq]
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Star Wars: X-Wing, TIE Fighter, and other LucasArts classics are joining GOG.com
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Flash player 8 or higher is required to view the some elements on the Orchard website.
If you install it now I promise to be here when you come back. And it really is worth the time.
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The fifth anniversary of Leeds' Bettakultcha events.
The Bettakultcha events are lightning fast talks with limitations, 20 slides and no more than 15 seconds each.
This talk will follow the theme of 'the North/South divide' - expect anything and everything on the night.
Date: Wednesday, 21st January 2015
Time: 7:30pm - 10:30pm
Venue: Brudenell Social Club Leeds LS6 1NY
Price: £6
The very first Northern Digital Awards, with 20 categories spanning digital professional specialisms ...
The very first Northern Digital Awards, with 20 categories spanning digital professional specialisms across the region.
Sponsor: Orchard are one of the proud sponsors of the Northern Digital Awards
The Awards Shortlist has been announced, with 20 categories across Social Media, Video, Web, Ecoommerce, SEO, PPC, and Digital Marketing.
Orchard are sponsoring the award for 'Large Digital Agency Of The Year', good luck to Code Computerlove, Enjoy Digital, Leighton, Mediacom i-lab, Mediaworks Creative Search Agency, Orange Bus, Silverbean, Stein IAS and theEword on their nominations in this category.
Date: Thursday 22nd January 2015
Time: 6:30pm - late
Venue: The Royal Armouries, Leeds
Price: £120
Brett Harned, VP of Project Management at Happy Cog hosts an exclusive planning workshop taking ...
Brett Harned, VP of Project Management at Happy Cog hosts an exclusive planning workshop taking place on Wednesday 28th January.
Orchard are one of the proud sponsors of DPM:UK
The workshop will be a chance to compare and contrast your job as a Digital Project Manager. Consider adapting your own methodologies based upon the successes of others, and be part of a project planning exercise.
This event precedes the DPM Conference, in which Brett Harned will be hosting a Q&A Discussion with the day's speakers. There will be a one hour break for lunch during the day.
After the Workshop there will be a chance to have a drink and do some networking.
Date: Wednesday 28th January 2015
Time: 10:30am - 4pm
Venue: The Albert Square Chop House, Albert Square, M2 5PF United Kingdom
Price: £60.00
A day of speakers covering techniques needed for managing digital projects, people, relationships ...
A day of speakers covering techniques needed for managing digital projects, people, relationships and budgets.
The conference of the year for Digital Project Managers returns for 2015.
The Conference will be split in to two days. The first is an interactive Digital PM Workshop.
A day later the conference will begin. This year's conference is features in-depth talks on all think DPM, and shorter, back-to-back 'lightning talks' on specific subjects.
The Morning Session will kick off with the first full-legnth talk:
Sam Barnes
Development Team Manager, Global Personals
People Are Weird, I'm Weird
Before lunch there will also be another speaker - to be confirmed - a short break, and 4 lighting talks:
Stephen Thomas
Project Manager at White October
Did We Really Say We Would Do That?
Rachael Ball
Digital Project Manager at BDB
How to Manage Project's Remotely
Peta Kennett-Wilson
Digital Project Manager at Zone
Inheriting A Problem Project
Suze Haworth
Senior Project Manager at Tribal
Project Management Pitfalls
In the Afternoon session there will be a Q&A Discussion Panel chaired by Brett Harned, another full-length talk to be confirmed, a short break and the final talk of the day before drinks:
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Date: Thursday 29th January 2015
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Venue: The Comedy Store
Price: £60.00
The Gadget Doctor is here to cure your tech ailments - no ... : Stuff 09/12/2014
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FBI says it knows art thieves' identity
BOSTON (AP) — The FBI believes it knows the identities of the thieves who stole art valued at up to $500 million from Boston's Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum more than two decades ago.
Richard DesLauriers, the FBI's special agent in charge in Boston, says the thieves belong to a criminal organization based in New England and the mid-Atlantic states. He says authorities believe the art was taken to Connecticut and the Philadelphia region in the years after the theft, and offered for sale in Philadelphia about a decade ago.
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The Maestro of Digital Hollywood
As per the ridiculously impressive line-up of speakers and panelists set to parade through the Loews Santa Monica Beach Hotel from October 18th to the 21st for Digital Hollywood, Victor Harwood has done it again. Victor who?
Although Harwood's accomplishments are well-known within the trade show industry and (some) entertainment circles, his is certainly not a name that gets bandied about by the average fan when the topic of gold-brand Hollywood franchises is raised. But it should.
Harwood came out with his first release in 1990 and has followed with dozens of successful sequels, unimpeded by imitators who have tried and, for the most part, failed to follow in his well-organized footsteps. He started out in the trade show business up in San Francisco in 1987 and has touched everything from the International Business in Space Conference to the New York Writer's Conference. He also had a hand at one point in New York Writer magazine, which reached a national subscriber base of 100,000.


text:
Blues history is littered with voices that never made it into the studio. Thanks to the industrious efforts of folklorists and fieldworkers like Alan Lomax, Chris Strachwitz, Pete Welding, Harry Oster and numerous others, many of these peripheral figures survive on tape and acetate. One such musical soul is Robert Brown, known by the sobriquet of Smoky Babe, and this disc rejuvenates one of his only records.
Though a long-time denizen of Louisiana at the time of this recording, Brown was a native of Mississippi, and his Delta roots are manifest in a hard picking style and informal vocal inflections. ...read more


text:
Just signed up for this. Not run a race for over a year due to on / off injury and health problems. Have kept up the running throughout but it has been sporadic. I hope this will be the event which gets me back where I want to be.
I also have a place in this event which I don't want. I got talked into entering without realising what it was and now I've bothered checking I don't want to do it. If you want to do it then you can have my place for free as they don't do refunds.
It's probably not actually a real word but isn't it just great.
You don't know the half of it. We have even more fascinating stuff going on here - try this one from my local rag:
Bristol 10K this morning. Not done much recently mostly down to a new job but also down to laziness. The 10K hurt a bit but I still clocked a respectable time. Perhaps with a little effort I might break the magic 50 minute barrier next time.
Disgraceful... but then the sort of idiots that set off bombs are sick individuals anyway.
It has made me think twice about going to the VLM this weekend.
I fell off the wagon last night. I had two sneaky pints but only because beer's cheaper than soft drinks in my local (honest)
The highest chance of me falling off the wagon is tonight. A village get together followed by a night in the pub - I can't see me buying any of their over priced soft drinks any more.
I am still hungover from New Year's Eve! I have massively over-indulged in alcohol this Christmas and my half marathon training plan has gone completely to pot as a result. I will add my name to the list and hope that 9 weeks of sensible training will be enough.
9 miles this afternoon. Meant to do 5 but sometimes it just doesn't work out that way. Haven't been that far for a while and it hurt a bit towards the end. Got soaked to the skin too.
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2011 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix – Sunday
Yas Marina Circuit, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
13th November 2011.
Lewis Hamilton, McLaren MP4-26 Mercedes.
Photo: Lorenzo Bellanca/LAT Photographic
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Created by Michael Dawidowicz, the inspiration to start the project came in 2002, when he was working in Tokyo, Japan.
The Melbourne based designer had been looking for an idea for a submission based project that was a little different to what was around at the time.
"I wanted to start some sort of design website and a submission site was something no one else was doing at the time. It just grew and grew and now is a creative platform for designers around the world," he says in an interview in 2006.
Urban Collective invited designers to submit work on a 665 by 290 pixel sized canvas according to a theme Michael chooses each month. The choice is usually influenced by local or global events, and also gives designers something solid work to, says Michael.
"Themes can be decided at the last minute or laid out months in advance, it all depends. Sometimes I will use world events as themes, that is, War, the World Cup, but I try to make it a challenge every month and see what results I get," he says.
This design archive is a tribute to all the designers who submitted designs over the years and made Urban Collective what it was in its day.


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Tatiana Repkova is now a member of WSIS+10 Review & WSIS Forum 2015: Towards Knowledge Societies, for Peace and Sustainable Development (6 hours ago)
Tatiana Repkova has started a new discussion titled: What is media sustainability?
June 4, 2014 by Laurent Fresson | Comments (1)
Discussion: What is media sustainability?
Community: Global Community for Media Sustainability (GCMS)
Discussion: Local Problems Local Solutions
Community: UNESCO ESD Youth Conference
Discussion: The role of the private sector in SD and ESD
Community: UNESCO ESD Youth Conference


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So, After weighing myself this week I realized I am a QUARTER of the way to my ultimate goal - WOOOOWHOOOOO. Yes, it's only 1/4 of the way, BUT ....it's 1/4 of the way!!!! lol. I can look at this 2 ways.
1.) Boowhooo... I still have 3/4 of the way to go. that's 75 more pounds until my ultimate goal.. I'm a whiner.. maybe I should quit. I'm not losing the weight fast enough.. waaaaaa....
2.) HOLY CRAP!!! I am a quarter of the way there and it's only the beginning of MARCH!! I have lost almost 27 pounds in a TWO months! That's GREAT!! I ONLY have to lose 25 pounds 3 more times!!! It's been a lot of sweat, a lot of rough mornings, a lot of better choices and a WHOLE LOT of SMILES!!!
LOL... I CHOOSE to look at the OPTIMISTIC way. Has it been hard? - YOU better believe it has. I have cried, whined and fought some bad self-demons along the way. But I have pulled through those days I wasn't sure I could. I have had some HORRENDOUS days where I didn't want to do anything, but I PULLED through and did what I needed to do to work toward my goal EVERY DAY. Do I want to cheat(myself)? Sometimes. But, I always try to wait a little longer and see if I still want that 'something' I'm yearning for. usually, the urge passes and I'm thankful. I did have a cupcake for Valentine's Day... and it tasted good. But I paid for it. It made me feel sick to my stomach because my body isn't used to the sugar so, ultimately,... it wasn't worth it. So every time I have wanted something super sweet again, I think about that delicious cupcake... and then how crappy it made my belly feel. I have my down days.... shoot, some weeks (this one for example) it was hard. I struggled to fight down my excuses.... but... i DID... and I was always thankful for that. I'm still learning and every day has it's challenges, but everyday I'm a step closer than I was the day before. I try not to look too far in the future because some days it seems overwhelming and I find it far less challenging to say "today is going to be a good day" or "GREAT JOB I went to the gym today! Excellent!!" rather than "allll of these days in the future I have to eat good... for...EVER?" lol. THAT seems more intimidating.
More and more people have started noticing and congratulating me on my success. (Then of course, you have the haters who don't want to acknowledge my success due to their own self issues.. but, that's not my problem, they have to work on themselves. They'll get there.) But Yeah, people who I never thought would notice, let alone ask me how I am doing so well, have been. It's crazy. I have been asked my 'secret', which is always a long version of "hard work" because I have SO much to say about it. I'm proud of myself and when people ask, I love to tell them.... mainly because, I KNOW how they feel. I have been there and I'm still not out. BUT I DO know what works... AND what DOESN'T. I have tried allllll of the "doesn't" and I am only interested in the "does" simple.as.that.
Ohhhhhhh annnnnnd let me tell you about my closet. I have a special area in the back of my closet designated to things that I never fit in but liked. It is my "Maybe One Day - 'skinny' clothes" section. Items I bought but never tried on and when I did they didn't fit. Items I got as gifts that didn't fit.... Pants I USED to fit... and other random clothes, you get the point. Well, I can say with a smile that I am starting to DIVE into those clothes. Two weeks ago I found a pair of slacks that I bought without trying on like... at least 2 years ago.. as well as some work shirts and other cute tops. Well, I would like to proudly tell you all that I am currently WEARING those pants and they are BAGGY! LOVE IT! Now, I still have a lot of smaller clothes in that section but I am getting closer and closer to the end of those clothes (they are in order of size, lol) and slowly but surely more and more of my everyday clothes are becoming tooo baggy to wear. My FAVORITE jeans - if I wear them more than a couple hours.. they are baggy and look crappy and I HAVE to throw them in the dryer t help them shrink again. A lot of my shirts have to go in the dryer (when I used to hang them) because if I hang them they look.. baggy.. it's an incredible feeling. One I am looking forward to for months to come. I can't wait to buy new jeans... but I have refrained so far. Oh yeah... I used to mainly go to the plus size store... Well, at my favorite plus size store, I am just about in the smallest size they carry..... so, that will open the door for me to shop at the normal size stores and feel comfortable in the clothes!
Oh and have I ever told you that I would LOVE to skydive? OHHH, I have wanted to for a few years now... and I was always too scared to b/c of my weight... Well, I am looking forward to squashing that insecurity and making my dream a reality!!!
This blog went in a million different directions, but I am feeling obnoxiously happy today and I wanted to share my random thoughts. This crazy journey has me all over the place but in one direction - toward my goal.
How to I wake up everyday so early and get my butt to the gym? How do I make the right choices when eating? This is how:
"I wake up every day with the realization that this is it, that there's only one shot at this life and I can either enjoy the ride and live it to its fullest and to my highest potential or I can stay the way I am. "
This song is by Pink and the name is "F*ckin' Perfect" Link below
(Scroll to bottom for comments from me)
Made a wrong turn, once or twice
Dug my way out, blood and fire
Bad decisions, that's alright
Welcome to my silly life
Mistreated, misplaced, misunderstood
Miss 'No way, it's all good', it didn't slow me down
Mistaken, always second guessing, underestimated
Look, I'm still around
Pretty pretty please, don't you ever ever feel
Like you're less than f*ckin' perfect
Pretty pretty please, if you ever ever feel like you're nothing
You're f*ckin' perfect to me!
You're so mean, when you talk about yourself, you were wrong
Change the voices in your head, make them like you instead
So complicated, look happy, you'll make it!
Filled with so much hatred...such a tired game
It's enough! I've done all I can think of
Chased down all my demons, I've seen you do the same
Oh, pretty pretty please, don't you ever ever feel
Like you're less than f*ckin' perfect
Pretty pretty please, if you ever ever feel like you're nothing
You're f*ckin' perfect to me
The whole world's scared so I swallow the fear
The only thing I should be drinking is an ice cold beer
So cool in line, and we try try try, but we try too hard and it's a waste of my time
Done looking for the critics, cause they're everywhere
They dont like my jeans, they don't get my hair
Exchange ourselves, and we do it all the time
Why do we do that? Why do I do that?
Why do I do that..?
Yeah, oh, oh baby, pretty baby..!
Pretty pretty please, don't you ever ever feel
Like you're less than f*ckin' perfect
Pretty pretty please, if you ever ever feel
Like you're nothing, you're fucking perfect to me
You're perfect, you're perfect!
Pretty pretty please, if you ever ever feel like you're nothing
You're f*ckin' perfect to me...
I AM OBSESSED with this song right now... it explains how I am feeling a lot lately. I know it could mean something different to every person, but to me it has to do with weight-loss. It shows the struggle... making bad decisions... falling over and over again.... people misunderstanding you.... judging you..... but GETTING BACK UP.. and proving them ALL WRONG (including YOURSELF). No matter how many times I fall, I get back up and THAT is what counts. I will continue to work to get to my goal, I don't care how long it takes. I pass up a lot of 'good' (LOOKING) food... I go to the gym 6 days a week. I give up an extra hour of sleep in the morning to go to the gym.. and an extra hour of tv at night so I have enough rest to be productive at the gym. I eat healthy food when I could just as easily eat crappy food. I work HARD and I am PROUD and I hold back a lot so I don't annoy people... but I really don't care anymore. I am changing my LIFE and IT FEELS GOOD. And I wanna share so people don't think I am doing anything crazy - that I'm doing this the right way - the way that works for the long haul. NO PILLS, NO CRAZY DIET, NO PREPACKAGED FOODS - just a whole lotta water and a whole lotta (REAL) Healthy Food. Plus going to a nutritionist once a week (WHICH I LOVE DOING). Krystle is an AMAZING person and a TRUE blessing in my life. I owe so much to her. She listens to my crazy weekly food stories, laughs with me, listens when I cry and most importantly GUIDES me when I feel LOST. She helps me feel more on track and having her go over my weekly choices helps me make better choices in the future. She teaches me so much and I NEVER EVER EVER feel judged by her. Who knows - maybe I will wanna be a nutritionist? I would love to be able to help guide people like she does for me. lol. Anyhow - Is this easy - NO. Is it worth it - YES. But my fiance ALWAYS says this to me when I am upset saying it's too hard.. "If it was easy everybody would do it" and he's so right! I think of him saying that often, especially when I am feeling down. I fall down because it is challenging and get back up because I love myself and know how badly I want to meet my goal too much to give up - I am learning to love myself more and more every day and that makes me cry with happiness.
PS - I just got on the scale this morning and realized.. I HAVE OFFICIALLY LOST 22 POUNDS! How exciting!! :) ANDDDDDD I can now do PUSHUPS...I no longer do modified! :)
Feeling Alone.
I have been feeling very �lonely� lately� due to a lot of things... stress, personal issues, struggles with food. I fear that I am looking at my goal too far ahead and it�s becoming overwhelming. It�s going to be so hard to get there. I feel�. Defeated by myself�.my bad thoughts. I have a hard time staying positive with myself. I know I am doing well� I work hard at the gym 6 days a week. I am eating better now than I have in my entire life. It�s so hard though. I struggled to motivate myself to get out of bed this morning. It�s my fault. I should have gone to bed earlier. It�s really hard doing this on my own. Completely changing the way you have thought and been taught about food your entire life is a difficult thing to do. It�s confusing, but it makes sense once you �get� it and it �clicks� in. IDK. I should be focusing on the small victories instead of obsessing about the goal. I went to a PR party last night� and I didn�t have even one of the unhealthy snacks that were available�. Chips, Pretzels, COOKIES, Pop� I passed on all of them. I drank my water and when I left I ate my Clementine orange instead�. That�s a small victory� right? Let me think of some more positives instead of negatives�. I haven�t missed one day at the gym in 3 weeks� that�s pretty good... especially when every other day I�m doing a fitness competition routine which kicks my ass�lol. I looked in the mirror and noticed myself that I appear slimmer� which was kinda cool. My boss also noticed and mentioned it� which I thought was great because a lot of people won�t. They won�t say �hey, you look slimmer � good job� they just keep it to themselves� like they�re afraid to say it... because maybe, just maybe it will boost your confidence or something � god forbid. LOL. -especially some of the people closest to you. It�s always a random person or an acquaintance who is commending you on a job well done� not the people who it would mean the most coming from � idk.. and not that it doesn�t mean a lot coming from anybody.. it DOES and it is appreciated� but it�s a little different coming from somebody who knows you really well. Cye�s supportive though � which I am very thankful for� but he sees my struggle on a day to day basis. He sees how much I struggle and how hard I am working... and how badly I want this. But he�s been coming to the gym with me a little less every week� and that makes me scared. I am scared I won�t be able to do this alone... well� I guess I have though�. I just think it�s my negative thoughts getting the best of me. The best part of going to the gym though is � the energy. It�s amazing. I feel so�. PUMPED. It truly is a great feeling. The soreness of the muscles feels pretty dang good too� it�s how I know I�m doing well � got in a great workout � pushed myself� SO� this post was kind of� positive and negative� better than all negative I imagine. Love this quote..
�Being defeated is often a temporary condition. Giving up is what makes it permanent.�
This is exactly how I am feeling right now. I am feeling defeated, but I know it will go away and is only permanent if I quit... and I�m not quitting
252 days until I leave for my wedding. =o]
... I've been... around... Of course with Christmas I had a downfall... but started back up at the beginning of January. I have so much to say and I am soooo excited!!! I started seeing a nutritionist - Krystle, as my Chiro office.. and I LOVE HER. She is so amazing!!! I meet with her every Thursday and I look forward to it! When I started out, about a month ago it was still around Christmas and boy was I slackin'! I have gotten serious in the last 2 weeks and it's paid off. Let me explain what kind of program I am on. The only main thing I have to watch is sugars. I shouldn't be exceeding more than 25g. a day. Carbs are eaten in the morning and taper off and my evenings are usually carb free... and my life is FULL of veggies now... and... I LOVE IT!! I have to drink a GALLON (Yes, a full gallon) of water every single day... and it's been a challenge. If you don't think it's hard - try it. It's a task in itself... but I have been doing pretty good getting around 90 oz a day and working my way up. Actually TWO days this week I met my gallon goal. I peed... a LOT! lol. It's so awesome because at first I was scared to eat too much and she told me I wasn't eating enough! WHHHAAAAT!? I have never been told that! lol. So I have been upping my green veggies ( I stay away from corn and carrots), getting lots of protein and eliminating processed foods (which is also a challenge)! If I don't understand an ingredient on the label, why would I eat it - why I am I putting a foreign substance to my body in my body? Makes so much sense now! And it's SO EASY. Don't get me wrong... trying to find food without sugars in it (that's not processed to a pulp) has proved t be a challenge... but once I have the food.. it's EASY. I eat when I'm hungry.. I drink lots of water... I feel good... I EXERCISE. Oh boy - the workouts.... THOSE are tough. She has me working out 6 days a week.. and I am currently doing a workout plan similar to those training for fitness competitions... WHOA. TOUGH WORK!!!! My muscles hurt all over! I am finishing up week 2 of this workout plan...alll these muscles hurt allllll over my body and it's downright painfully sore! The very first day - I cried during the workouts. Cried because they're so hard for me to complete and cried because I have let myself become this weight and have to work this hard to get back down to normal... so, it's tough. But - I manage. Cye comes to the gym with me most days to workout with me and to make sure I am working the weights correctly.. and that has been SOOOO helpful! Between him and Krystle I have an AMAZING support system( I even cried(in a good way) to Krystle because I feel like I have so much support from them and I have never had people cheering for me so much.. and... it feels GOOD)!!!!!... long story short (I'm running low on time) i have lost 13.5 pounds in 2 WEEKS!!!! GO ME!!!!!! ( I re-weighed myself 4 times in a row because I couldn't believe the scale - LOL)
Well, I am back to a workout routine! well, for the most part. I am about 3 weeks back on track and feel so much better, but... it's still a struggle. It's such a hard journey that some days I have to give myself a good reason to get up and go to the gym and have such a hard time coming up with a reason to motivate me. Some days I know I can do it and other days, especially when I skip the gym... I feel like giving up. I am too hard on myself sometimes... Probably b/c I want more results faster, but I know these things will not happen overnight for me. I have to work and you get what you put in. I am going to a class tonight - Surviving The Holidays. I am so excited. It's a class offered by my Chiropractor - who is awesome. He is such a great guy. The office staff is amazing.. and they are always hosting free classes about living a healthier lifestyle and they are so informative I don't feel like it's a challenge to go. I LOVE going and I look forward to the new classes. Last week, they hosted a Zumba class. It was SO MUCH FUN!! I wish I had somebody who wanted to go to the classes with me - seriously. It didn't feel as much like working out and I think it would be a great class to go to once a week for some exercise change! Cye has been supportive (as usual!) and if I get him up, he goes to the gym with me in the mornings... which is nice. :) I didn't get up this morning to go to the gym.. so I am feeling guilty.. but I plan on going tonight after my class at the Chiro so I am sure I will feel better then. NO EXCUSES!!!
PS - Less than ONE year until the wedding - ahhhhh. it's exciting and scary and stressful and exciting and... lol.


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UPDATE: The secret has been revealed! Infamous 2 will feature user-generated missions which will appear in the game world. The missions you and others create will be designated with a different color than normal missions. We'll have a preview with more details later tonight. Our original article is below.
Sucker Punch Productions, the developer behind the Infamous and Sly Cooper games, will be revealing a "big secret" at GDC tonight, according to a post on its Facebook page. Oh, and it's not Sly 4.
"Today is very exciting day," wrote the developer. "We've been holding a big secret for the last two years and at GDC later today... We get to tell you all about it :)"
The developer went on to clarify that the announcement of Sly 4, which was teased in The Sly Collection, is not the secret, saying, "Ok everyone No a sly 4 announcement is not the secret. Sorry to disappoint some."
We've dispatched the formidable Mikel Reparaz to the scene to absorb the blow of whatever Sucker Punch plans to hit him with. Our guess is that it has to do with Infamous 2, but perhaps the developer is hiding something new behind its back? Our typey fingers will let you know!
Mar 1, 2011
EnragedTortoise1 - March 2, 2011 3:02 a.m.
nadrewod - March 2, 2011 2:09 a.m.
chrisat928 - March 2, 2011 1:38 a.m.
Radagast107 - March 2, 2011 1:21 a.m.
Cyberninja - March 2, 2011 1:16 a.m.
LAKERdynasty247 - March 2, 2011 1:02 a.m.
ultimatepunchrod - March 2, 2011 12:55 a.m.
essiy - March 2, 2011 12:39 a.m.
ninjaemperor - March 2, 2011 12:36 a.m.
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My Profile
Hazel Gal
United States
Member since May 2012
Flag This ProfileFlag as Inappropriate
Reviewed Cream Cheese Frosting
May 4, 2013 in Food Network Community Toolbox on FoodNetwork.com
"This is the best cream cheese frosting I have ever tasted! I paired it with a lemon cake for my husband's Birthday, and everyone kept coming back for more... Huge success, thank you!""


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|Blurbarian Since
|December 2012
|Azalea Hazelwood
|My Web Site
|Silver City, New Mexico, USA
|My Occupation
|My Bio
Azalea Hazelwood has flitted about the poetry scene for just a short while. Her vivid poetry tugs upon innocence and complexity, creating a unique, multi-dimensional voice in a paperbound world.
Azalea desires to see the digital age meld seamlessly with the antiqued, time-honored traditions of the literary world. And it's easy to imagine such a space through Azalea's poetry, where both can act in accord and in turn promote the power of the spoken and written word.
|Spoiler alert: I'm thinking my next book will be about...
... a few random, yet noteworthy topics.
'A Colorful Bunny Tale', which is a children's book based upon the advent of color from a whimsical and scientific narrative. Currently working on the latter half of the book and the illustrations are underway! Think Circa Summer 2013.
'Conversations with a Drunken Angel' is also in progress, which is a series of recordings captured at a bar in Brooklyn, New York. Think Circa Spring 2013.
|Everyone needs to know about these authors and artists...
An amazing wildfire photographer, Grzegorz Darda can be found here: http://www.flickr.com/photos/grzzegorzz/
Enjoy the unexpected beauty in a fireman's life.


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Kathryn & Ross Petras On Assembling a 'Modern' Poetry Collection
Happy National Poetry Month! All throughout April, we interviewed poets about working in the digital age. To end the month, we spoke with brother-sister writing team Kathryn & Ross Petras.
Many have come to know the Petras siblings for the The Stupidest Things website and companion books. They recently edited a collection of modern poetry culled from politicians, reality TV stars and music recording artists.
Workman Publishing released The Anthology of Really Important Modern Poetry: Timeless 'Poems' By Snooki, John Boehner, Kanye West and Other Well-Versed Celebrities earlier this month. Follow this link to access their blog and read pieces from Twilight Saga actor Robert Pattinson, former Vice Presidential candidate Sarah Palin and pop star Ke$ha.


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Welcome to my little slice of internet heaven. This site showcases some of the coolest Jawa collectibles from my personal collection (unless noted). Also, I have included links to some of my favorite websites, which feature other outstanding collections as well. Thank you for visiting MADBROWNZ and enjoy the "Jawa experience." Please e-mail me (email@example.com) if you wish to contribute to the content of this site.
Saturday, September 13, 2014
Thursday, September 11, 2014
POTF2 Trilogo Jawa Two-Pack "Quality Control" Sample (UK)
Pictured is a POTF2 Trilogo Jawa Two-Pack "Quality Control" Sample. For quality control purposes, it is common for toys to be routinely inspected during the production process.This particular item has a "signed sample" sheet attached to the back of the package. The sheet notes the Vender, Item name, product number, etc. Of note, the "Language Version" of choice is UK with a comment "Existing US Product W/O EU .102 Blister Card". Unfortunately, the original tape has dried off from the sign-off sheet, separating it from the card.
Pictured is the front of the card. Here you can see the five different languages detailing the glowing eyes and blaster pistols for the "evil jawas". This is a rather cool addition to my growing modern pre-production Jawa collection.
Posted by Jason West at 10:43 PM
Sunday, July 27, 2014
Legacy Paint Master Hardcopy Jawa with First Shot Security Droid
Pictured is a Legacy Paint Master Hardcopy Jawa with First Shot Security Droid. The figure is hand painted and had been used as a paint master. The head is held by a resin shaped bulb on top of the figure. The arms are held in place by plastic pins and come apart from the top torso. The legs are also held by plastic pins thru the middle part of the bottom torso and can be separated from the figure. The figure comes complete with a hardcopy black weapon (not pictured) and first shot Security Droid. The wheels on the base of the Security Droid are locked in place. The top portion can be separated from the base and displays touch-ups of paint, where it had been hand painted. The figure and droid differ from the final production figure
Here is a picture of the figure and droid taken apart. Spots of "blue resin" are visible underneath the paint that had been applied to the figure.Like most hardcopies, the figure is quite delicate and has to be handled carefully. This figure compliments my First Shot Legacy Jawa and is a very nice addition to my collection and "ongoing" run of modern pre-production Jawas.
Posted by Jason West at 9:41 AM
Star Wars Weekends Exclusive Vinylmation Jawa and R5D4 Two-Pack (MISB)
Posted by Jason West at 9:15 AM
Sunday, May 4, 2014
Lego Sandcrawler 75059 (MISB)
Here is a picture of the back. When put together, the Sandcrawler measures 10" tall and 18" wide. This is the second Lego Sandcrawler to be released and a welcome addition to my collection.
Posted by Jason West at 6:41 PM
Tuesday, February 25, 2014
POTF2 Commtech Jawa and Gonk Droid First Shots
Pictured is a POTF2 Jawa and Gonk Droid First Shot. Each figure is unpainted and non-sonic welded, so they can be taken apart. Each figure is also devoid of any copyright information. The Jawa is molded in beige (flesh), blue, green (tunic) and brown plastic. A prototype blaster molded in beige plastic had been included with the figure. The head has been purposely left off the figure, so it will not break if removed. The Gonk Droid is molded in white (base) and beige (legs) plastic.
Here are pictures of each figure when taken apart. The Jawa came with a clear insert that has been placed inside the head. The middle piece of the Gonk Droid is used when putting the figure together. Though I have been fortunate enough to add other Commtech Jawa first shots to my collection, the Gonk Droid makes this addition even more special.
Posted by Jason West at 10:19 PM
Saturday, January 25, 2014
Clone Wars Jawas (Vendor Structural Sample)
Pictured is a Clone Wars Jawas Packaging sample.Technically a Vender structural sample, these are created to get approval on the weight of the board stock, blister fit and depth of the bubble. The figures and blister are affixed to yellow cardstock that has been die cut to the specifications of the cardback prior to production.
Here is a close up of the blister and figures.Though not shown, the figures have "HFE" written on the top of their heads.
Though not the most exciting picture, here is a layout of the back of the card. The cardback is blank and white in color. The carded sample is a nice fit to my Clone Wars first shots. This is one of many modern carded samples I have managed to obtain over the years.
Posted by Jason West at 4:37 PM
Monday, January 13, 2014
POTF2 Saga Jawa Mock-up (MOC)
Pictured is a Jawa Mock-up on a Saga cardback. I have to admit that I had been very skeptical when this first appeared on Ebay. While the Jawas were not released for the Saga Collection (2002 - 2004), they were produced for the Original Trilogy Collection (OTC) from 2004 - 2005. Unfortunately, I can only guess that these were mocked-up to see what the figures would look like prior to the OTC cardbacks being produced. Similar to most mock-ups, an existing cardback and insert had been used. In this case, a C3PO cardback and Darth Maul insert. There are subtle differences between the insert used on this mock-up and the produced version. The bubble, however is interesting, as it matches the one used when the figures were produced on OTC cardbacks. The inner tray is cut for each figure and weapon as well. Since the Jawas were repainted versions of the ones produced in 1996, it makes sense that the same figures would be used for this mock-up. These make a very notable addition to my ongoing Modern pre-production collection.
Posted by Jason West at 10:56 PM
Friday, November 15, 2013
Diamond C2E2 Exclusive Jawa Bank Artist Proof
Here are pictures of the bottom sticker and the presentation board at Toy Fair 2012, before being produced by Diamond. A noteworthy addition to my collection.
Posted by Jason West at 10:47 PM
Thursday, October 10, 2013
Run of Foreign and Domestic Jawa Baggies.
Pictured above is possibly the most complete set of Jawa Baggies ever assembled. From left to right (Bottom to Top), the bagged Jawas are:
SW-B: Vertical Made in Hong Kong
SW-D: Horizontal Made in Hong Kong
ESB-C: Horizontal Kenner and Made in Hong Kong (Tape Sealed)
ESB-D: Horizontal Kenner and Made in Hong Kong (Heat Sealed)
Kenner (Euro G): Horizontal Kenner logo (Tape Sealed/Smooth)
European/Meccano (No COO) (Heat Sealed/Smooth)
Palitoy (A) Land of the Jawas: Horizontal Made in Hong Kong (Tape sealed/Crisp)
Palitoy (I) Land of the Jawas: Horizontal Made in Hong Kong (Tape sealed/Smooth)
Palitoy (K) Made in Hong Kong (Heat Sealed/Smooth)
The Jawa is fairly hard to find for domestic baggies, but the foreign versions are close to impossible to locate, which makes this run even more special. The Jawa were released in two different versions of Star Wars baggie, a B and D version. The main difference being the Made in Hong Text on the front of the bagged figure. For the Empire Strikes Back, the Jawa were released in two different baggies, an ESB-C and ESB-D.
The same Jawa had been released in a number of Foreign baggies. The taped sealed (crisp and smooth) versions with Made In Hong Kong text resembles the ESB-C type of baggie and were exclusive to the Palitoy Land of the Jawas Playset. The European/Meccano baggie does not contain any Country of Origin text. The baggie material is also much thinner than other bagged figures. The Kenner baggie had possibly been a European mail-away in the mid-80's. The baggie features a Kenner logo and is tape sealed.
Posted by Jason West at 9:14 PM
Saturday, April 27, 2013
Star Wars Land of the Jawas Playset (NRFB/MISB)
Pictured is a Star Wars Land of the Jawas Playset. Released in 1979, this Playset allowed kids to recreate C3PO and R2D2 being captured by the Jawas. The set features a plastic base, cardboard Sandcrawler backdrop and escape pod. The cardboard backdrop has an elevator, so action figures can be lifted up and down. This particular version features a Rebate Offer. Kids could send in a select number of proof of purchases and receive $3.00 back from Kenner.
The Playset has never been removed from the box. One side is securely sealed, while one piece of tape has been cleanly cut on the other side. The box is a solid C-8+ with slight wear around the edges and vibrant color. This Playset is a welcome addition to my Jawa collection.
Posted by Jason West at 6:55 PM
Friday, February 15, 2013
Ronto & Jawa Box Flat Proof (Fold Test Display)
Posted by Jason West at 10:30 PM
Tomy 16" Plush Jawa Dolls (Japan)
Posted by Jason West at 12:09 AM
Sunday, December 30, 2012
Star Wars Droid Factory Playset (MISB)
Pictured is a Star Wars Droid Factory Playset. Produced in 1979, the Droid Factory offered kids hours of fun in building and customizing different droids from a series of parts. Featuring a crane, you could "lift" and "drop" different parts from one side to the next. The box measures 14" wide, 12" tall and 4" deep.Unlike the Empire Strikes Back release of the same Playset, only Jawas, R2D2 and other various Droids are featured on the front.
Here is a picture of one side, featuring a kid lifting different parts and building his own special Droid.Unfortunately, the box has seen better days and is in rough condition. The Playset is still sealed on both sides and has never been opened.Though easier to find than the Empire Strikes Back release, this makes an affordable addition to my Jawa collection.
Posted by Jason West at 2:17 AM
Funko Holiday Jawa Bobblehead First Shot
Pictured is a Holiday Jawa Bobblehead First Shot Prototype. Produced in 2008 by Funko, four different Bobbleheads were created with a Holiday or Christmas theme. The set included Darth Vader, Yoda, C3PO and a Jawa. The figure is unpainted and molded in Brown and White. The base does not contain copyright information. The figure measures 4 1/2" tall and features a working spring that makes the head go up and down when pushed. This is one of many modern Prototypes I have in my ever growing Pre-Production collection.
Posted by Jason West at 1:59 AM
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