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Aside from Ferrari's dream finish, the German Grand Prix saw eight retirements and points finishes for Red Bull, Toyota and Honda. As the paddock packs up to head directly to Hungary, the men behind the wheel describe the race
Michael Schumacher, Ferrari (1st):
Superb! I cant begin to find the right adjectives to describe the car-engine-Bridgestone tyre package and the performance of the whole team. We worked hard at last weeks Paul Ricard test and I am very happy that today that work bore fruit. I want to congratulate Felipe, who drove a great race. It was very important to have made up several points over our main rivals at the key moment of the season. I had no problems whatsoever all weekend and I have to say that winning here in front of my fans makes it a really special victory. Already, during this mornings Driver Parade I got a great feeling seeing all the support I had in the crowd and I am happy to have been able to pay them back with this win. The fight for both titles is now very open. There are still six races to go and there is still room to push and put those in front of us under more pressure. I am confident and keen to get back on with the next few races.
Felipe Massa, Ferrari (2nd):
We did an even better job than expected. I saw yesterday morning that we had a really good pace for the race; especially my speed on old tyres was very surprising. I was therefore convinced we would have an even stronger car for the race. That is how it turned out. After a good start and good first pit stop I saw that I had a big gap to the following cars and from then on I concentrated on looking after the car and bringing it home. I drove an intelligent race in what was an important one for the team at this stage of the season, given our targets in both championships. Now it will be important for us to continue moving forward with this same momentum and concentration to the end of the championship. I hope that, in the short term, we can repeat this performance in seven days in Budapest.
Kimi Raikkonen, McLaren (3rd):
"To be on the podium is really the best result that we could have achieved today as we have had several problems. During the race I was delayed in my first pit-stop due to a crossed wheel nut; I suffered from blistering on my second set of tyres, and there was a small issue with the hydraulics, which meant that Jenson Button was able to get ahead after my first stop. However none of these really mattered as we were able to make up all the time in the last part of the race where we were very strong. The result today shows that the car has definitely improved, and hopefully next race we can do even better."
Jenson Button, Honda (4th):
I had a great race today and the first two stints were very enjoyable. To get past both Renaults at the start and then past Kimi during the race felt very good and I had a lot of fun out there. The last stint was really tough because I had massive amounts of tyre graining on the front left and a lot of rear locking, so I just couldnt fight off Raikkonen. Im really happy though. Weve made a definite step forward here and weve been strong all weekend but we have to continue that into Hungary now which will be hard work. It looks like were getting back on track though.
Fernando Alonso, Renault (5th):
We were not competitive this weekend, but I did the maximum I could and so did the team. I think that without the blistering we experienced, the podium was a possibility for me today - even from seventh position. I got a good start and passed both Hondas, but the tyres then blistered in the opening stint and I lost too much time to be able to fight for third place. Things were much better in the second and third parts of the race, and I was still pushing hard in the final laps when I went off because there was a chance of catching Button. When you look at the level of performance over the weekend, and consider the blistering, then the result is not too bad. But we did not have enough to fight Ferrari here, and that was the problem for us. Now, we need to think positive and look to Hungary. The tyres we use there are totally different to what you need for Hockenheim, and I have confidence in Michelin to give us the right products. We need to improve our performance for next week, and fight back strongly.
Giancarlo Fisichella, Renault (6th):
Both of the Renaults had the same problem today with tyre blistering, and for me it came in the second stint. After just a few laps, the car had become nearly undriveable. We need to investigate everything to find out why, but we also saw some other Michelin cars that were quicker than us today, and we were missing something in terms of performance all the way through the weekend. On the positive side, we stayed reliable, got both cars to the finish and managed to score points on a very tough weekend for us. Now we need to look ahead to Budapest. Everything starts again for us on Friday, and we will be going there hoping to fight for the podium.
Jarno Trulli, Toyota (7th):
"As always, the German Grand Prix brings unexpected results and this weekend has not gone how we had hoped for. It is quite unfortunate that we did not qualify better yesterday. But even though I started from the back of the grid, we can be very happy with the performance of the car and the fantastic results. I had an incredible start and could do a lot of overtaking which made the race quite exciting for me. Our race pace was very quick and we can be encouraged by the results we ended up with today. I owe a great thanks to the team, because the car was very competitive and I think we have huge potential to bounce back at the coming races."
Christian Klien, Red Bull (8th):
Im really happy. Its the second point Ive got this season, the first being in Bahrain, so Ive had to wait a long time. Ive had a lot of bad luck and bad races, but finally weve scored a point again. The start of the race was really good. I gained a position at the first corner and another two at the hairpin, where David and Ralf (Schumacher) were fighting and hit in to each other. The pace of the car was good. We struggled a little to keep the pace of Barrichello and Webber in the first stint, due to some understeer and graining on the front tyres, but the pit stops worked well and I had more wing for the second two stints. We pushed 100 per cent today and got the results.
Ralf Schumacher, Toyota (9th):
"It is a very disappointing weekend for us because we could have achieved much better results. The start of the race was quite difficult and then I had the unlucky collision with David Coulthard in the third corner. The tyres locked up and I could not steer away from him. These things are normal racing incidents that can happen. The results are unfortunate for the team who have been working so hard to bring us forward. But I truly believe that had we been able to follow our original strategy, we could have reached a podium position. As you can see from Jarno's performance, we have shown that this is definitely possible. I am looking forward to Hungary to make things better."
Vitantonio Liuzzi, Toro Rosso (10th) :
That was a cool race! On the first lap I was on fire! For the team, to finish ten and twelve from the back of the grid is a good result. It was fun out there, fighting with Jarno, Ralf and David. It was difficult to keep them behind because they were quicker. A shame that in the end I was not quick enough to keep the two Toyotas behind me. It would have been a great opportunity for points, but we just did not have the power.
David Coulthard, Red Bull (11th):
I started 10th and finished 11th. That was my race and Ive nothing more to say.
Scott Speed, Toro Rosso (12th):
The mechanics did an awesome job to get my car rebuilt after my qualifying crash. A big thanks to all the team. We drastically screwed up the car set-up for the start, having way too much front wing and just keeping the car on track was a challenge. We fixed that in the stop and then in the middle stint it was still a bit too much and by the end it was getting better. At the very beginning, I was catching David, Trulli and Tonio, but it soon went into big oversteer and that was it. I also had a problem with my brake balance in the early stages which also hurt my first and second stints, but once we fixed that I was able to get past Albers again.
Christijan Albers, Midland (13th):
"I think we had a reasonably good race result. We were competitive against Toro Rosso, and it was nice to fight with Speed. Sometimes he would close the door on me and I had to lift to avoid an accident, but when I passed him I was quite happy because it's nice to see that we've gained some ground against them - it's nice to be in competition. It's just a shame that about nine or ten laps from the end I began to lose power. So we have to analyse this problem and make sure it doesn't happen again, because it cost us a position."
Tiago Monteiro, Midland (14th):
"This has been another tough weekend for me. Christijan and I were on different tyres, which we knew could be a risk, and it ended up being the wrong choice, unfortunately. That was the main issue for me in the race. I'd get two or three good laps out of each new set, and then the performance would just fall away. The balance was quite decent, actually; it was just a general lack of grip. But that's the way it goes some weekends - you gamble and take your chances. But the boys did a good job to give me a well-balanced car that brought me to the finish, so they deserve credit for that. This was definitely not a great track for us, because it requires hard braking and acceleration, which is a weak point for us at this time. Tracks like Hungary should be a lot better for our car, so I'm looking forward to that."
Mark Webber, Williams (DNF):
It was a promising race but a disappointing ending. I had a really good start and climbed from 11th to sixth after lap one and the stint went well. I had a big fight with Rubens who got me in the end, but I knew he was lighter and had to stop before me. After the first pitstop I passed Fisichella on the track and was on the limit until the second stop. After that, things started to go wrong - I lost a bit of balance on the car and then suddenly started to lose engine power quickly. It seems we had a water leak, which of course is terminal for an engine and it was all over eight laps from the end.
Takuma Sato, Super Aguri (DNF):
The debut of the SA06 in Germany has been positive and the car performed very well in Qualifying yesterday. We were expecting a little bit more in terms of race pace today, so we are a little bit disappointed, but it is a big step up from the SA05 so this will come in time. It was exciting to be able to race with the Midlands and in the second stint I was still ahead of one of them. In the end I had a gearbox related oil issue so I had to retire from the race, but because this is a new car it is not really surprising that we encountered some kind of problem. Although it was obviously a disappointing race today, overall it was a good weekend for us, not easy, but definitely a good weekend.
Jacques Villeneuve, BMW Sauber (DNF):
The impact was quite hard. After we changed the nose at the end of the first lap the car was very oversteery and every time I tried to push I was sideways. I just pushed a little too hard and I got caught out there. Just before the accident I was very sideways entering the corner, but when I caught it it just went straight.
Rubens Barrichello, Honda (DNF):
We made some good progress here this weekend, so its very disappointing for me that we let that go with a bad start and an engine failure. In the first few laps the car was running well and with the strategy and long run pace we had I think we should have done well today. Not long after my first pit stop the engine caught fire and there was oil on the tyres which caused me to spin and that was the end of my race. I just have to hope that we can carry this progress through to Hungary now because everyone has been working so hard to take this step forward.
Nick Heidfeld, BMW Sauber (DNF):
My start was only average, but in the second corner I managed to overtake several cars on the outside, and among them was Jacques. Although I braked very late, I got through the corner all right. Then I suddenly felt a hit on the right rear. I had to pit with a right rear puncture and changed all the tyres. But the brakes were also damaged. The pedal became longer and longer, so it was too dangerous to continue. Later I found out Jacques and myself had touched, which was unfortunate.
Pedro de la Rosa, McLaren (DNF):
"It is a real shame that my race ended so quickly, especially after I had such a good start and had moved up two places. The car felt really quick and was easy to drive. I was catching the Renault's when all of a sudden I lost power and had to pull up, as a result of a failed fuel pump. Although I am disappointed these things happen, and I am now just looking forward to the race next weekend in Hungary where hopefully we can better demonstrate the improved competitiveness of the car."
Sakon Yamamoto, Super Aguri (DNF):
I am disappointed not to have raced here today as I only completed one lap. On the positive side, we have collected more data than we had for the SA06 today, so we shall study this before we arrive in Hungary. The SA06 is easier to drive than the SA05, so I hope that I can continue to adapt well and learn more about the car for the race in Hungary next week.
Nico Rosberg, Williams (DNF):
It was very disappointing not to fully participate in the race because it looked like a lot of fun to be racing here today in front of a home crowd. The car has been good for most of the weekend and I wanted to move up the field as quickly as possible. I lost the rear in the Motodrome but didnt really feel it coming - I probably overdid it because I wanted to get too much out of the first lap. Mark had a great race today and deserved to get some strong points for his performance, but if nothing else, at least we are turning the corner with our pace. I will put today behind me quickly as we will be racing in Hungary next weekend.


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Collection Spotlight Talk
Date: Daily through June 30, 2014, at 11 am
Location: Museum Galleries, Getty Villa
Admission is free. An advanced timed-entry ticket is required.
Discover the richness of ancient art in this 30-minute gallery talk that looks in depth at a major work in the Museum's collection. Sign-up begins 15 minutes before the talk at the Tour Meeting Place.

subset: commoncrawl


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Artichoke Dip
- Posted by Johanna on April 13, 2009 at 6:04 pm
- Category: Recipes and Food
It's been forever since I've posted a recipe, so I thought I'd come back with a really easy one. This is a great artichoke dip to take to a pot luck, or you can serve it along with cheese and crackers as part of an appetizer spread. I sometimes even eat a half-serving with Triscuits as a small lunch.
Take one can of artichoke heart pieces (not marinated). Drain and rinse. Chop them in a food processor or mini-chopper. (You can chop them all into tiny bits, or you can leave a few larger pieces for variety.)
Combine with one cup shredded Parmesan cheese and enough mayonnaise just to moisten and hold it all together. (The person who taught me this said 2/3 cup, but I use less to cut the fat.) Sprinkle with garlic powder and salt to taste. Stir it all together, then microwave until it's warm and the cheese is melty. (2-3 minutes, usually.)
Really simple and tasty. Get a hearty cracker or toasted bread slices to hold up to it.


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Oral hygiene liquid
OraMD is an all-natural liquid replacement for your toothpaste, mouthwash and breath freshener.
Compact CPAP machine
The Zzz-PAP "Silent Traveler" CPAP offers an optional integrated heated humidifier, altitude adjustment, universal power supply, and 45-minute ramp.
Laxative powder
MiraLAX is a powder laxative that will eliminate constipation without painful cramps or gas.
Weight loss documentary
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Liquid heart medicine
Cardioprim is an all-natural plaque removal drug in liquid form made from a concentrate of amino acids.
Audiobook discusses sleep apnea, DOT requirements
The audiobook "Truckers' Road To Health," available on iTunes, Audible.com, Amazon.com and other audiobook websites, is an educational health tool promoted by TheManInWhite.org.


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Chicago - Rapper Chief Keef won't have any shortage of real life drama to pull from when he writes his next record as the 17-year-old rapper is already being sued for child support by a girl who's still in middle school. The unidentified girl filed a petition for child support in Chicago and claims Keef impregnated her in 2011. She's since given birth to a baby girl. According to the documents she currently attends a Chicago middle school. While her current age is uncertain, she could have been in 8th grade when she conceived the child but its also possible she was as young as in 6th grade. Keef – who's real name is Keith Cozart – was 15 at the time.
Crying in court and statutory rape, that's what Chief Keef does!
Have yourself a week, bro. I mean I'm not a PR expert or anything but I'm fairly certain that knocking up a girl 2 years ago whose still in Middle School today is probably about the worst way ever to repair your image after crying in court and denying being a gang member. By the time this dude gets out of jail he'll be a fucking grandfather in his early 20′s settling down with his family. That was a sweet few months of positive publicity about finally being rich and dropping an album though. That'll look good on a Harold's Chicken resume for sure.


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1958/1959 Fender Tweed Stratocaster/telecaster/ Esquire /strat/tele Guitar Case
Rare tweed Telecaster/ Stratocaster/ Esquire case used in just 1958 &1959. Case shows usual wear for age, but in generally nice and solid condition. Some fraying, and 1 broken latch. Other latch missing spring, but closes and latches tightly.Handle leather covering in nice condition. Interior in very nice condition. Clean with no unusual odors. A couple of minor tears in leather, but all in all very nice. Rare chance to get original tweed case for your Strat or Tele. Ship to US only.
Vintage 1978 Silverface FENDER CHAMP Tube Amp AA764 Guitar AMPLIFIER Nice | |
$285.00 (16 Bids) End Date: Monday Oct-21-2013 14:00:54 PDT Bid now | Add to watch list |
Jazz vintage tinted neck P Bass body bartolini spotless guitar fender squi | |
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Fender 2009 USA Rosewood US Vintage 62 Hot Rod Stratocaster Neck | |
$435.00 (22 Bids) End Date: Monday Oct-21-2013 16:43:13 PDT Bid now | Add to watch list |


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BMW Sauber have described the new F1.07 as the teams first real car. Whereas many components on last years machine had already been designed when BMW decided to buy into Sauber, its successor has been a co-production from the start.
The teams Swiss base at Hinwil was responsible for the chassis, while their German colleagues in Munich were in charge of the powertrain and electronics. Together they laid down the priorities needed to combine their efforts into one harmonious package.
Work on the F1.07 began in April 2006. "On the one hand we channelled our experience from the F1.06 into the car, but at the same time we considered the new challenges presented by the 2007 regulations," explained technical director Willy Rampf at the new cars launch.
One of the most important 2007 changes the team had to contend with when designing the car was the switch to standard Bridgestone tyres, which will provide less grip and hence reduce cornering speeds.
"It is obvious that the cars are going to slide around more, and so it was important for us to build a car that is easy to drive and that our drivers can trust sufficiently to go on the attack," explained Rampf. "We should also expect the cars generally to run with slightly more downforce in order to compensate for the loss of grip."
With the introduction of standard tyres, the significance of aerodynamics increases even more. "If you look at all the components that affect the performance of a Formula One car, aerodynamics represent by far the single most important factor," Rampf pointed out.
That is why the expansion of BMW Saubers aerodynamics division was given top priority. Operation of their wind tunnel in Hinwil was gradually ramped up from one to two and then, at the end of October 2006, three shifts. That has long been standard among the competition and was felt to be a key prerequisite for achieving the team's ambitious targets.
In a bid to make the F1.07 as responsive as possible in corners, the car features an all-new front wing linked to a similarly new nose, which is shorter and higher than before. This allows the wing to channel a large amount of air under the car, allowing the underbody and diffuser to work to their full potential.
The F1.07 also uses a new cooling concept, which is more effectively integrated into the car's overall package and designed for a greater throughput of air, hence its slightly larger cooling intakes. The air is smoothly diverted upwards, improving aerodynamic efficiency by comparison with the F1.06 particularly in high outside air temperatures.
"In the concept phase we devoted a lot of time to finding an optimal solution in this area, noted Rampf. It's an important factor as the air temperatures in the first races of the season in particular are traditionally very high. The cooling concept of the F1.07 promises to deliver very high efficiency in all conditions."
In developing the rear of the car, the BMW Sauber designers built on the knowledge gained with the F1.06, giving the tail an even slimmer and lower profile to further optimise air flow around the rear wing. This design was based on the compact quick shift gearbox as well as cleverly positioned hydraulic elements. Also harmoniously integrated into the design are the exhaust pipes, whose form was determined by considerations of performance and overall package.
The section underneath the rear wing is completely new. Stricter regulations on rear-end collisions have resulted in the rear crash element being larger, while its lower positioning has required a completely new design for the centre section of the diffuser. A further task the BMW Sauber engineers faced was to reduce weight while maintaining rigidity. This applied to the monocoque, which in parts consists of 60 layers of carbon fibre, as well as to the individual components.
"Using a lot of ballast is always an advantage, but of particular importance in the current situation as it ensures great flexibility in terms of weight distribution," explained Rampf. "And that plays a crucial role in exploiting tyre potential to the full."
Also totally new to the F1.07 are the suspension elements which, at the front axle, are primarily dictated by aerodynamics. The raised nose section means that the wishbones slant downwards at a striking angle. The kinematics have been modified with the standard tyres in mind and the rear axle was also revised to further improve traction.
"We were also very keen to lend the steering good feedback," commented Rampf. "This aspect has taken on even greater importance as a result of the reduced levels of grip. The harder standard tyres will inevitably cause the cars to slide around more, which means the drivers will have to do a lot more correcting. That's why good steering feedback is essential."
In line with the new freeze on engine development the F1.07s V8 remains essentially unchanged - a fact reflected in it being designated the BMW P86/7 rather than P87. However, in place of the previous engine electronics, there is now a new central control unit for the engine, transmission and chassis. This new development hailing from Munich goes by the abbreviation RCC, which stands for Race Car Controller.
Another part of BMW Saubers test department in Munich is devoted to the development and testing of transmissions. The result is the F1.07s new seven-speed gearbox, which shifts up to the next gear without any break in power at the rear axle.
Summing up his hopes for the new car, Rampf concluded: "In the first season we created a solid basis. The cooperation between the team members in Munich and Hinwil is now running very smoothly, and the added resources are also helping. Our aim is now to further reduce the gap to the top teams."


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Flavor Exploration at Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams
Categories: Just Desserts, Travel Hog
photo by Christina Staalstrom |
There are five locations in Columbus and all shops offer traditional menu items like sundaes, milkshakes and soda floats. But the big show stoppers are Jeni's ice cream sandwiches. Bursting with color and flavor her home made macaroons come in flavors like raspberry, pistachio and almond are then overstuffed with Jeni's pick of ice cream. We had the Salted Caramel with slivered almond on a macaroon and were not disappointed. The sweetness of the macaroon was a perfect frame for the slightly salty caramel ice cream.
Jeni's frozen fantasies are available online, so when we get home we can have them shipped overnight and arrive perfectly frozen. Just in time for the weekend barbecue.
To order, visit www.jenisicecreams.com.
photo by Christina Staalstrom |
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Why Multimedia Storytelling Matters
"Regular readers of this blog know I've been totally sold on the just launched social entrepreneurship incubator program the Unreasonable Institute for a long time. Still, the first edition of their "Unreasonable Series" Reality TV-style program shows how much power well-produced multimedia story telling has to grab new audiences and deepen bonds with the old."
Storytelling & the WIDE WORLD web
"I've gotten new insights into storytelling and the Web in following the active brain of Bulgarian blogger and storytelling fan Maria Popova. She coined the phrase "controlled serendipity" that spread virally last winter after being headlined in a NY Times article by Nick Bilton. As I wrote in my commentary about that article, I think the reason the phrase resonated so strongly with people is because it captures the essence of how we use the Web — To follow stories, and make new stories ourselves. So I see Popova as another example of a heightened appreciation of storytelling from the Wide World community."
How to be a great storyteller – 5 parts of a business story
"There's always an implicit contract between the storyteller and his audience. It includes a promise that the listeners' expectations, once aroused, will be fulfilled. Listeners give the storyteller their time, with the understanding that he will spend it wisely. For most businesspeople, time is the scarcest resource; the storyteller who doesn't respect that will pay dearly."
My TEDx Talk. "The importance of creating your own narrative"
The importance of character in storytelling
"To put it more simply, games require character or they will not be immersive. The reason why well built character is vital to the story is because any in story the key agents of a story are the characters. I've tried to get some ideas down for writing books and I got advise from a writer who told me that the key to telling a good story is to create strong characters and say what would happen should those characters interact."
Storytelling in PR: five steps to a happy ending
"As a way of explaining your business, storytelling can be a very effective approach. Properly told, a business story can create colour and interest in a way your audience will appreciate and remember. Whether winning over sceptical journalists, wooing customers or motivating employees, good storytelling can be a powerful asset. However, as every parent knows, a story can easily fall flat. Here, we set out five golden rules for telling your corporate story."
A very talented storytelling friend, Rasul Sha'ir, pointed me to a really nice example of an art form called Spoken Word. Rasul thinks they may be some of the best storytellers in the world. He might be right. This is quite good.
"TPRS is changing the way many teachers go about teaching a foreign language today. Through TPRS teachers are finding they can teach the language holistically without having to teach grammar rules. Grammatical accuracy is taught but not in the traditional way through verb conjugations. Language is learned by understanding messages in the target language. That means language is picked up through comprehensible input. Input is listening and reading that is understood by the learner. We ensure the class is totally comprehensible. Also it must be repetitive and interesting. We teach the class an interesting story that is invented as the teacher asks students repetitive questions. "
Get into the Mind of a Deep Thinker Through His Photos and Storytelling
"I would have to say that he is also a deep thinker by what I have read of his and the stories he so graciously puts together in his daily emails along with the photo. Quite interesting at times and at the least sometimes out there, but hey I can relate."
"In short, she wants to ensure her story comes across as real through "an owner who can offer an anecdote that illustrates the problem."
Fast-forward to the actual article "Tough Love Isn't Easy to Give" and those anecdotes come in the form of five companies:
Just Salad: Didn't confront a poor performer who eventually got the ax
America By Mail: Too soft on a single dad who wasn't doing the job
2 Hound Design: Ignored a micro-manager who spied on employees
Tyler Barnett PR: Employee kept calling the big boss "buddy" and "pal"
Trye & Associates: Receptionist continued to break rule eating at her desk
It's revealing to look at Needleman's original query that zeroes in on business owners "who struggle."
That's what creates the mini drama."
Tell me a Tale: How PenTales is Bringing Back Storytelling
"Everyone has a story to tell," says Stephanie Ursula Hodges, one half of PenTales, a New York City based storytelling initiative. In an age where SMS and the solitary nature of social networking are the standard, Hodges—together with childhood friend Saskia Miller—is hoping to integrate the art of storytelling back into people's lives in order to foster community and to cultivate new storytellers, not only in NYC but across the globe. So what exactly does PenTales do?
Miller explains, "We are all about getting people to share stories with one another."
This is going to be a good resource. Keep your eye on 'em.
"Don't be fooled: kids bedtimes stories aren't just for sleepy time anymore. You can tell stories for children in a variety of settings such as waiting in line at the grocery store, in the waiting room at the pediatrician's office and, yes, even, bedtime stories. Although children's books on tape or CD are a great place to start, we're going to help you learn to tell stories with children, without a book! Maybe we will include some free stories for bedtime. Watch us grow."


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A Drop In Consumer Prices -- With A Catch
Inflation took a step back in March, which is news that should come as a relief to bank depositors in savings accounts and other interest-bearing instruments. However, there is a catch involved that prevents this from being completely good news for depositors.
Prices decline in March
Last week the Bureau of Labor Statistics announced that the Consumer Price Index (CPI) declined by 0.2 percent in March. This put to rest fears of a flare-up of inflation that had been stoked by the previous inflation report, which showed a 0.7 percent rise in the CPI during February. The decline in consumer prices during March left inflation at a moderate 1.5 percent over the past year, and running at an even milder pace over the past six months.
Once again, petroleum products were the key driver of inflation. In February, a 9.1 percent spike in gasoline prices had contributed heavily to the rise in the CPI. In March, a 4.4 percent drop in gasoline prices was the leading factor the CPI's decline.
Declining prices are a welcome break for bank depositors. With CD, savings, and money market rates generally running below 1 percent, virtually any inflation represents a loss of purchasing power for bank accounts. The catch is that the March decline in CPI was accompanied by signs of a slowing economy, and that is not good news for depositors.
Four scenarios and their impact on savings accounts
To better understand the trade off between falling prices and slowing growth, imagine a four-way grid that depicts the possible outcomes for both inflation and economic growth, with each ranging from high to low. The result would be four possible combinations, as described below:- Low inflation, slow growth. If this sounds familiar, it's because it has been the dominant environment of the past few years. In this scenario, inflation doesn't do too much damage, but savings accounts are not able to get ahead because slow growth keeps interest rates low.
- High inflation, slow growth. This would be even worse for depositors, because while rising inflation might eventually push interest rates higher, a slow growth environment would likely mean that interest rates would rise more slowly than inflation, causing savings accounts to lose purchasing power more quickly.
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- Low inflation, high growth. This was the best-of-both-worlds environment that the U.S. enjoyed during the late 1990s. It would give interest rates a chance to get solidly ahead of inflation again.
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help with balance
Hi, I would like some help in trying to figure out what to plant in my flower bed to help balance the gazebo which is on the other side of the patio.
I am thinking I need some heavy looking plants for balance. The exposure is north, east and west. We will be moving the tree to the centre of the bed. I am looking to incorporate shrubs and prennials into the bed. We have hydrangea there already. I would like something that will have some interest in the winter as well.
The other question I have is should I plant something around the gazebo or leave it plain and perhaps have some hanging baskets? Thanks
No one has any fences? It seems that this area needs some spatial definition or boundaries.
I'm not a Landscaper but I don't really see why that planting bed should be fully responsible for landscape balance or that it should be even considered until more of the landscape has been designed.
I think a larger bed would provide much more effective balance. It isn't helping that I'm having visions of tree rings because the bed is so round and the tree already more in the middle of it than I would like. (As Duluth recently replied on another thread, search for the Renegade Gardener's web site and read his views on tree rings).
To illustrate, that rock-edged bed in the background provides a perfect balancing feature for the gazebo. I don't know if it's yours or a neighbour's, but it creates a really good counterpoint. It echoes the colour and makes the gazebo less of a "it just landed here" feature by being bigger and more grounded. If you want to bring that effect to this patio, I think a more organic approach would also serve you well.
As suggested by your second question, I think the challenge is not so much to provide balance to the gazebo as to integrate it into the patio scape. I suspect this would be far better achieved by running the bed all the way around the patio with some graceful curves rather than with a strictly geometric circle - again, take a hint from the rock bed in the background, which does not have a tidy shape and thus gives the gazebo context. If that rock bed were also round or hexagonal or square, it would not connect to the gazebo at all, they would just be two discrete elements that happen to be sitting in the same yard. That is what the gazebo and your new bed now are. In fact, it's what your patio and the gazebo now strike me as being.
In fact, depending on how much you like to garden, I think you could even connect the bed right to the gazebo - is there a path to the gazebo? That could maybe form the end of the bed.
Somehow, I think to achieve a really pleasing design, you have to answer the unspoken question of "why is the gazebo here?"
I'm going mostly on feel here - not being a trained landscape designer I can't always articulate the principles - but there is something about the patio that makes it look like a bit like an afterthought as well. If you had asked in advance what shape a patio in this location should be, there might have been a better choice. So that being the case, it may be that putting a more nicely shaped bed around it with a visually dominant border all around it - something like those rocks in the background again! - as well as a more prominent pathway to the gazebo, would mitigate the extremely rectangular effect. You can also consider something like a rock wall, if that's in your budget or interest, to mitigate the fact that the patio "just ends here." Again, the question that the mind asks is "why does it end right there?"
Form follows function as well as aesthetics though. If, for example, you plan to hold croquet parties and the croquet will be off to the left of this picture, people will need to get from the patio to the grass. So you would need in that case to either truncate the bed or leave a wide grass path through it. Regardless, if you continue the edging material and the planting style on the gazebo side, the bed will have continuity.
isabella, no one has fences and that is way we like it.
karin, thanks for the post. I didnt take a photo of the whole back yard to show how everything relates. I didnt think I needed based on my question. We like the shape of the bed and the way the gazebo and patio relate. All I needed advise on is the choice of plantings for this particular bed.
Rose it's good that you are clear on what you like and want, nothing wrong with that. The difficulty arises when you want help to achieve an objective that your design doesn't enable. For me, plants won't balance the gazebo, only hardscape and mass will do that. So it was a question of whether your priority is to keep the bed as it is, or create balance.
That's just one reason why I at least didn't answer your question just as you asked it (other people perhaps had other reasons). The other is that straight plant selection questions are very hard if not impossible to answer. If you've perused concurrent threads you might notice that questions about plant selection don't usually get much action on this forum. Plant selection depends so much on what's available locally, local conditions, and your personal taste that it's very hard to make recommendations. Usually people are far better off going to a good nursery locally than asking for advice from people who might as well be in another galaxy. We've all tried often enough to make suggestions and then nine times out of ten the person doesn't like or can't get or can't grow what we have taken the time to think of.
Fro the sake of lurkers and other people who have posted questions and aren't getting answers, I'll also mention that the people who spend time on this forum are mostly here because of an interest in design. I think it speaks to the difference between the home decor forum and this one to say that plant selection is the decor once the design is done. As I've seen many examples of on the decor forum, the decor can be really tough when the design is badly done - I'm thinking window treatments and backsplashes, for example. And as I think I said on the decor forum a while back, it can be frustrating when someone comes to the landscape design forum with the design already done and asks how to decorate it, often to mitigate or achieve something that could have been or can still be accomplished with a different approach to the design.
Having said all that, I am not sure that evergreen plantings in the bed would really be an enhancement; it might be better for the bed to be bare in the offseason. An evergreen shrub would be kind of hanging out all by itself out there in winter. Having it bare will leave the bed shape the dominant feature. Unless you plant a little circle of boxwoods or something to that effect that accents the bed shape rather than compromising it.
As for planting up the gazebo, I actually like it plain. It depends again on what you like. From a design perspective, I'd say that the environment doesn't seem to suit a cottagey gazebo, so I'd stick with the classic/Grecian look which I feel the gazebo, being painted rather than natural wood (or is it light wood?), seems to have.
KarinL, I understand the difficulty you refer to in trying to suggest plant selection. I do like the idea of the boxwoods to accent the bed. I think they would give it the weight I am looking for as they are dense and also stay green in the winter. In the other beds in the back we also have some cedars, evergreens and yews which add to the winter interest but I wanted something different in this bed. Last year when we built the gazebo, we did enquire about how to finish the patio on the opposite side and were told by a designer that a large bed planted with heavier looking shrubs would balance the gazebo and that we didnt necessarily have to have hardscape on that side for balance.
I am still unsure about planting around the gazebo. DH doesnt want anything around it but I think it looks a bit bare but we will leave it for this year and think about it.
The wood is actually clear cedar, we like it when it turns naturally grey which hasnt started yet.
I really appreciate your post KarinL, thanks
Have you indicated what geographical region/climate you are in yet? That is critical to plant selection.
I agree that the bulbous outline of the end of the bed is undesirable, the rest of the bed should be made to flow into it more gradually.
The tree should be faced down with evergreen shrubs, preferably broad-leaved evergreen if climate and exposure permit.
Get your hands on a copy of Garden Design Illustrated by John and Carol Grant to see how to use different categories of plants in mixed planting design.
And how to plan and use lawn and bed shapes.
Inexpensive classic reprinted many times, but not I believe currently in print. I encounter it in libraries and used book shops here, and I have seen used copies offered online.
A bed around the gazebo will do a great deal to balance this composition and add unity to it. Right now yu have a battle between a structure and a planting bed. It is not a fair fight. Make it a battle between two beds - one has a tree in it and one has a gazebo in it.
Size and dispersion affect balance as well. The trick here is not to make the tree bed heavier, but to moderate the gazebo. Make the tree bed a nice planting and then work the balance by changing the gazebo through planting and bed size. I'd beef up a planting on the house side of the gazebo with bigger plant forms and lower and spread the planting as it wraps around the outside of the gazebo and back to the patio.
As Karin said, you plant choices are to do with you taste and local conditions (as Bboy said). The design part is more about form which you can then find suitable matches for.
bboy, I am in zone 5 southeastern Ontario, sorry I left that important part out. We have a very wide ranch style home and we had a professional landscaper do a design for the front, and both sides of the house but we didnt have the patio or gazebo done at that time. We have copied the design of the beds that he had at the corners of the home to soften them. We had mention we were going to do a rectangular patio with gazebo and the oblong bed is what he had suggestioned. I do like your suggestion of the evergreens as we have quite a few we planted on our two acre lot and it would relate.
laag, thank you I like the idea you suggestion about the garden around the gazebo with higher plantings and then the lower ones. We positioned the gazebo to view the lake so we wouldnt want to hide the view. That would tie the gazebo in nicely to the rest of the beds. Any suggestions as to types of plants, I live in zone 5.
Evergreen shrubs are the flesh on the skeleton. All deciduous and herbaceous makes for an insubstantial planting. Hence the tendency to display flower borders against walls or clipped hedges, even when these may include some evergreen shrubs.
I know you didn't ask, but I'm going to tell you anyway: Your design problems run deeper than "balancing" the bed and gazebo. Sometimes you can get so close to something that you lose the ability to see something as others will see it. The house (a most lovely house, to be sure), the patio (starkly unappealing, I'm afraid), and the gazebo just don't "fit." I would bring in an expert. It would be a great pity to end up with something amateurish. I wouldn't be at all surprised if he didn't want to talk about more trees for those open spaces.
whitecap, what you dont see is the rest of the backyard which has many trees, which include fruit, deciduous and evergreens, large flowerbeds all planted last fall. If it was later in the season and things were in bloom I would take a picture. There is nothing ameteurish about our home, here to show you the finished product is a picture of the front which was planted early fall last year so everything is still small, The back will be finished to the same level.
I plan on adding a garden around the gazebo as I agree with laag's comments. The patio looks stark of course it has no accesories on it. The gazebo is a perfect fit for this backyard as we live in a waterfront community and have beautiful views from there.
Maybe you should reconsult with your front yard designer, as he/she has seen the entire property and how it all fits together. All we can see are the few bits of open areas and not the whole picture, so any advice from us wouldn't necessarily be very useful. This is probably why you are getting comments like you have about context, balance, etc. because we can only advise on what we know and garner from you gradually as it is revealed.
This may be totally off ... but how does a point of reference influence our perception of balance?
If one were to step out onto RoseAbbey's patio from the house would the perception pick up on a mass over there and another over there, but the primary focus would be on the lake. Then one would realize that, "Oh, if I go to the gazebo, I'm going to have a better view of the lake?"
How does the lakefront play into this, or am I rowing my boat in the wrong direction?
I guess what I'm really trying to point out is that some of the responses have been frustrated with an apparent lack of demarkation or definition ...But doesn't something as big as a lake change things?
Several hints from RoseAbbey point to a real spaciousness here. Possibly an issue of scale?
In my neighborhood lots back up to the back fence of someone else's yard. In a way that tends to make one want to protect or enclose closer to the home, tricking the perception by blocking out the neighbor's in an effort to play with the impressions of both privacy and, oddly, spaciousness.
But if my backyard backs up to a lake, there's something different going on, isn't there?
So is "balance" here also helping to frame that primary experience? And, so, moving us over to the gazebo to get a better look?
RoseAbbey- Without knowing what your plant palate already includes, it would be hard to suggest specifics. And what do you want? Simple, elegant, somewhat formal yet natural? Low key enough that your DH won't find it distracts from the gazebo's form? What has your designer used in the front and side areas? Any favorite shrubs there that would work as the base for the gazebo bed?
Thanks Wellspring, I dont think you are off track at all.
We are trying to have the best of both worlds here, some privacy which we have accomplished I believe with our landscaping last fall and also keeping some fantastic views of the river.
We have a alot of different flowering shrubs and evergreens as well as perenials and quite a few types of hydrangea which we love. I was thinking of perhaps having a simple arranagement of smaller variety hydrangea around the gazebo with maybe a couple of boxwood at the gazebo entrance. In the other flowerbed where we have a couple of hydrangea already put more boxwood to give it the "weight" it needs. We would like to keep it simple and elegant. Thoughts?
I don't like box. Visually, I do. It's the smell. To me it ought to be called "cat box".
So ... I'm prejudiced. But there just aren't enough zone 4, 5, 6 broadleaf evergreens. Try the amazing search engine at the Missouri Botanical Garden and see what that turns up for you.
I'm needing to re-think much of my hodge-podge garden and working in small and intermediate evergreen forms is part of the plan. For needled evergreens I'm intrigued by the different chamaecyparis. They are slow growing, come in various sizes and forms, different colors, and have a softer texture than most other needled evergreens.
The Girard rhododendrons (azaleas) have been bred for colder zones. Some are evergreen. The one that MBG likes best is one I'm trying for myself. It's Girard's Rose. Hmmmm ... RoseAbbey? Yep, it's got rose colored blooms. It's evergreen. And, the foliage turns a pretty red for fall through early spring. But ... what can I say ... it's an azalea, so it'll be picky about where you put it and what sort of soil it's in.
I like what you are thinking about with continuing to work with your hydrangeas. Do you already have Hydrangea quercifolia (zone 5)?
But these are, as it were, just shots in the dark.
wellspring, I never noticed that boxwood had a smell, although I have never sat around it. We usually have them in the spots you walk by or through. I will have to go out and smell it. I will do a search for broadleaf evergreens and see what I come up with , thanks for that suggestion.
I dont have the hydrangea quercifolia but I did look it up, it grows to 8 feet tall, it is a bit tall for what I am looking for around the gazebo, it is very pretty though.
If you were planting hydrangea around a gazebo would you do 8 plants, it is an eight sided gazebo, or would you do 16? Not quite sure about that.
We have one azalea, we bought late last summer when everything was going on sale. Was fairly cheap so we thought we would give it a try. It is coming along beautifully so far, we planted it in the north side of the house.
Okay, I can see the patio is Mickey's "face" and the gazebo and the tree bed are his "ears" and so can go for balance there. I also believe that laag has supernatural powers to discern some basic things that can improve that isolated area without knowing much about the rest of the back property. (I really mean that it may be so obvious that a few things would help and you can do those and get a sense of accomplishment without getting all bogged down about the larger design issues).
But I am still interested in more of the whole. Even just focusing on the patio, I am interested in what makes the patio feel good and useful, or not. Just from that one shot, I feel a need for enclosure (not view-blocking, but for cozy-ness).
I have no idea what it "feels" like to walk out on the patio and where the eye goes--as in wellspring's post--and how that might influence what is good for the patio and the gazebo and all the related stuff.
I am not getting the sense that the ways the small-picture landscape choices affect the overall integration of house and site are important to you right now and if that is correct, then you will be aware that
"design" conversations will go in a different direction than if one were trying to ground the house, frame the views, and all that.
I guess you are aware that oak-leaf hydrangeas are available in dwarf forms.
No supernatural power, just observation that it is very unlikely that a picture would have been taken from this angle in such an open setting if there was anything at all close by to influence this space. The long shadows and their direction did not hurt either. The tree and gazebo are framing the open space across the back of the patio. They either want it open for activity or a view or something else.
I'm a big picture guy, but there is a lot of evidence that the OP is looking to create space in the immediate area of the patio with it open to the back for whatever reason.
People photograph landscapes the way that they are thinking about them. This person is thinking about the patio space.
There are different kinds of boxwood and only one smells. Problem is, I can't remember which one. If it smells, you'll likely already know it. A neighbour of my parents has a front planting of it, and the whole area just reeks as if of tomcat pee. The planting's been there for years - it obviously doesn't bother some people - it doesn't even bother me that much, really. But it's not for surrounding a gazebo or a patio. An internet search for "boxwood cat pee" or something to that effect should quickly reveal which one not to buy.
I am not sure that Laag's description evokes a mathematical/geometric/formal arrangement of shrubs around the gazebo relating to its shape but rather a more naturalistic grouping/flowing look that will de-emphasize its geometry. If the latter is what you're going for (and I would argue that would best match the planting style of the front), then I think the idea would be groupings of two or three hydrangeas here or there in the bed, or single hydrangeas grouped with other types of plants for good foliage/size/shape/flower contrast.
We have 42 trees/evergreens planted on this two acre lot, not counting the liliac bushes along the back. 28 trees are in the back. Most are scattered along the sides and back of the property for privacy. By the patio and gazebo which didnt show in the picture except for the one in the bed are 4 trees, 4 locust and 1 magnolia, for privacy/coziness and shade. There is an open area past the locust, in the middle of the property which we like to keep, there is the septic tank and we like the open space for our grandsons to play soccer on. Anyway, the reason for my original posting was to get ideas how to landscape the patio/gazebo area, we are very happy with the rest of our landscaping so please dont dwell on the landscaping of the whole property.
KarinL, I like the naturalistic grouping/flowing look you suggest. I think I will plant something I already have in the back along with the hydrangea to have continuity, instead of planting something totally different. Thanks


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The suggester said, "this has such a beautiful atmosphere. I love the slightly isolated feeling, and the way the colours go together. I feel like it really captures what it's like to be an artist, with the simple shot of an artist photographing themselves. The lighting is natural and gorgeous."
Given 2011-09-15
Suggested by =methylated-spirit
Featured by `namenotrequired


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Why Outsource Medical Billing to M-Scribe?
Medical Billing Service
Eliminate code/data entry into practice management — M-Scribe's billing experts process your data by entering charges, payments and adjustments within 24-hours. Detailed, real-time billing reports are readily available for viewing and in-depth analysis.
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Celebrity Central / Top 25 Celebs
Credit: David M. Russel
Published: Friday February 04, 2011 06:00 AM EST
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"That was more skin than I show at the beach. I'm usually the girl in the long poncho."– Rachael Ray, on wearing a skimpy red dress designed by DWTS costume designer Randall Christensen on her show, to PEOPLE


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Filed under: Fantasy, Video, Lord of the Rings Online, Expansions, Patches, Previews, Free-to-Play, Hands-On
Over at Lord of the Rings Online fansite A Casual Stroll to Mordor, Andang gives us a nifty walkthrough video of the incoming Wildermore region for Update 11. The 19-minute video shows off the snowy mountainous region near Dunfast down to the plains near Norcrofts.Take note that this tour is done on the public test Bullroarer server, so things may change before the update is officially launched. Still, it's worth watching the whole video if you're a LotRO fan anticipating the new content.
Continue reading Take a casual stroll through LotRO Update 11
Take a casual stroll through LotRO Update 11 originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 25 Apr 2013 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
- Source: A Casual Stroll to Mordor


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PampasTreeless plains, some 2,000 miles long and from 300 to 500 broad, in South America. They cover an area of 750,000 square miles. It is an Indian word meaning flats or plains. Source: Dictionary of Phrase and Fable, E. Cobham Brewer, 1894 More on Pampas from Infoplease:
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A visually stunning card game that matches colors like dominoes, but with a twist! Players can split the color connections and start new color arrays to use more of their cards and win the game. "Splatter" and "Slam" action cards cause trouble for the other players and give a winning advantage to the player who plays those cards.


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German lawyers launch pirate defense team
The tangled case involves Somali pirates, a German ship, an overcrowded Kenyan prison, and allegations of human rights abuses.
With a new high seas run-in with pirates happening almost daily off the eastern coast of Somalia, much of the world's attention is turning to how best to capture and bring these marauders to justice.
But a German-led legal defense team is setting out to fight an altogether different battle: how best to defend them.
A team of seven attorneys specializing in international criminal law is taking up the cause of nine Somali pirates accused of hijacking the MV Courier, a German freighter, on March 3 near the coast of Yemen. [Editor's note: The original version misstated the number of pirates.]
The suspected pirates are being held in Kenya and awaiting the start of a criminal trial there next week. The defense team, which is working pro bono, will land in Kenya on Sunday and is expected to make the case in front of a judge that the men should stand trial in Germany.
Pirate trials are still the exception rather than the rule, and objections such as this over jurisdiction suggests the challenges confronting the European Union and United States, who are searching for a uniform legal framework by which to hold criminals accountable after they are apprehended in international waters.
Lawyers say fair trial not possible in Kenya
The nine Somalis accused in the Courier incident are in Kenya because of a memorandum of understanding signed recently between the EU and the East African nation. Although other European countries, notably France and the Netherlands, are pushing to try accused pirates in their own courts, Germany is not making similar demands.


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Stones have been used to decorate the walls as it stands out against the red bricks. The top floor has a bay window while the first floor has French windows and a small balcony. Three sides of the building have a long corridor covered by a sloping corrugated tin roof resting on a wooden framework and the coupled columns supporting the wooden framework. One can even find triangular projections typical of classical Greek architecture supported by ornate false columns over some of the windows.
Amar Mahal has Art Galleries that promote Indian art and artists. These Galleries present a splendorous picture in informal surroundings and has collection of paintings that range over different styles including Kangra style of Indian miniatures paintings. The collection includes works of some of the renowned artists like M.F. Hussain, J.Swaminathan, G. R. Santosh, Bikash Battacharjee, Ram Kumar, Laxman Pai and many others.
Nala Damayanti Gallery displays a set of forty-seven exquisite paintings made in the world famous style of Indian miniature painting that came up in the late eighteenth century, known as Kangra Ki Kalam visually narrates the love of Nala and Damayanti and stops at Damayanti's Svayamvara (wedding ceremony). Dash-Avatar Gallery has oil paintings based on the unique theme of reincarnations of Lord Vishnu, the Hindu deity revered as the preserver of life. The paintings depict the incarnation of Vishnu chronologically as described in the Vishnu Purana (a Hindu religious text). Contemporary Art Gallery houses the works of art by the eminent contemporary artists of India .
The Amar Mahal Museum is open form 10 a.m to 12 noon & 3 p.m to 5 p.m (winter); 5 p.m to 7 p.m. (summer); Sundays: 10 a.m to 12 noon. Closed on state holidays and Mondays.
Besides students, the aquarium has become a centre of attraction for tourists, giving them an opportunity to revel in the exotic aquatic world. The aquarium has attracted large number of tourists visiting the State. The aquarium-cum-awareness centre comprises of 24 aquarium caves including 13 small caves for holding freshwater fishes, two large caves for holding marine water fishes and nine medium sized aquariums for holding marine and fresh water fishes. It has state-of-the-art equipment, a public gallery, museum, laboratory and a multimedia conference hall. The entrance is designed in the shape of the mouth of a fish and the exit in the shape of a fish tail. The aquarium houses a museum where 400 varieties of freshwater and marine fish are on display.
These days the Palace is being renovated and it is suggested to visit the area only after the renovation has been complete which is likely to take some time.
Dogra Art Gallery: The Dogra Art Gallery at Mubarak Mandi Complex is open from 10:30 a.m to 4:30 p.m (winter); 8 a.m to 1:30 p.m (summer); Monday closed. Exhibits include fine miniatures of the Jammu and Basohli School of painting.
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Date of the Event:
Friday, February 22, 2013 - 12:00pm From Friday February 22nd through Sunday February 24th you can catch the 25th Annual Russian Festival of San Francisco. Tickets are $6 - $10, children under 12 are free. This event takes place at the Russian Center of San Francisco, 2460 Sutter Street.
For times and other details, call 415-699-6511.


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Metal Gear Scanlon 3: Part 03
Become Premium to Watch
There's a word for games like The Order: 1886. Rental.
Ten years later, this frustrating follow-up to Canvas Curse feels shallow and soulless by comparison.
The chaos and fun of Saints Row is fully intact in the underworld, but a new setting can only go so far.
Concept »
Aela the Huntress is a member of The Companions The Circle.
A merchant in Skingrad. She seem to be somewhat of a drunkard.
The High Priest of Dementia. He lives in Crucible, New Sheoth.
Leader of the Dark Brotherhood in Skyrim
Jarl Balgruuf the Greater is the ruler of Whiterun Hold.
Bjalfi was married to Maeva the Buxom. One day, he stole her wedding gift; Rockshatter, and joined up with a gang of Marauders in Fort Strand.
Second only to Mercer Frey in the heirarchy of the Thieves Guild, Bryjolf inducts the Dragonborn into the Thieves Guild and provides guidance for him.
The Dovahkiin ("Dragonborn" in the tongue of the Dragons) is a legendary prophesied hero, a mortal with the ability to use the magic of the dragons, and the protagonist of The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim.
A Nord with an apparent dislike for all things divine. "The gods? They don't do a damn thing."
Blacksmith that forges weapons and armor for the Companions at the Skyforge.
Farengar Secret-Fire is an advisor of Jarl Balgruuf the Greater. He is also the court wizard of the Jarl.
Twin brother to Vilkas, member of The circle.
A Nord mechant living in Skingrad.
Gundlar is the cook of House of Mania.
Owner of the Bannered Mare in Plains district in the city of Whiterun.
Kodlak is the Harbringer of the Companions.
Korst Wind-Eye is a Nord Shaman that lives in Skaal Village.
Irya is a lord of the kingdom of Nords in Mount&Blade.
Her husband ran off with a family heirloom and she wants it back. The husband on the other hand...
The main antagonist of the Skyrim DLC pack Dragonborn.
Nord innkeeper and the owner of 'Olav's Tap and Tack' in Bruma.
Permanent resident of the Bannered Mare.
A former employee at Lelles' Quality Mercandise.
Tharsten Heart-Fang is the leader of the Skaal tribe.
The general who became emperor of all of Tamriel, and the emperor whom all of Tamriel's emperors have since descended from. He is also worshipped as the divine Talos in Skyrim.
A Nord hunter living in Brindle Home, between Skingrad and Chorrol. He has a wide array of enchanted arrows on him.
Ulfberth War-Bear is Adrianne Avenicci's husband. He works at Warmaiden's as shop-keeper.
Vidkun can be found taking a dip during the Cheydinhal Recommendation quest.
Vigge is a nord and Item Recharger at Skingrad's Mages Guild. The Summon Storm Atronach spell can be bought from him.
A Nord warrior who hangs out a lot at Jorrvaskr. Supporter of the Stormcloak rebellion and can become the new jarl of Whiterun.
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Great Gifts for Kids, Teens, Pets, Families, Homeowners, Techies and Seniors
This list of unique gift ideas has something for everyone on your holiday shopping list. Scroll through this article and you'll discover a variety of unusual and handy gift suggestions that will have everyone saying, "Wow! This is something I can really use!"
Gifts to Protect the Kids
Safety Turtle Pool Alarm Kit You Customize
Families love the Safety Turtle water immersion system for protecting young children, pets and seniors around open water. The alarm activates when a person or pet wearing a Safety Turtle sensor falls into a pool, spa or other fresh water. Now you can customize your Safety Turtle system with the "Build Your Own Combo Kit" that let's you choose the sensors, accessories and components you want.
Child-Safe "Green" Surge Protector
This smart 10-outlet surge protector is specifically designed for homes with small children. Each outlet on the Bits Limited Child Safety Smart Strip has a sliding cover so curious kids can't stick things into unused outlets. This surge protector is also "green" because it helps homeowners save money on electric bills by auto-switching devices on and off when not in use.
"I Spy" Baby on the iBaby Monitor
Here's a baby monitor that allows parents to keep tabs on baby from anywhere with a swipe on their Apple iPhone, iPad and IPod Touch. The Veridian iBaby Monitor works on PCs too. When baby cries or moves, parents receive an instant alert and can watch and sooth baby using their own voice through the two-way audio feature. Accommodates up to four devices and four users and communicates via WiFi, so its range is unlimited!
Gifts that will "Wow" Teens
Bluetooth Wireless Headset for TV, Phone or Audio
With a ClearBlue Bluetooth TV/Audio Amplifying System, teens can crank up the volume on their TV or music player without disturbing anyone else in the house! This stylish wireless headset reduces background noise and delivers crystal clear stereo sound. The system is compatible with all TV, MP3 players and cellular phones and features a built-in microphone for talking on a cell phone. Range is up to 33 feet.
Flashing Cell Phone Signaler
Teens will love the LightOn Mobile Phone Signaler by DreamZon so they'll never miss a call or text when their cell phone is set on "vibrate" and the ringer silenced (like when they're supposed to be studying!). When a new call or text message is received, the LightOn cell phone cradle senses the vibration and alerts the user with a brightly flashing LED light.
EXTRA Loud Sonic Bomb Jr. Alarm Clock with Bed Shaker
Teens will have no more excuses for missing class or being late for work when they have the Sonic Alert Sonic Bomb Jr Alarm Clock on their nightstand. With an extra loud 102 decibel ringer, pulsating flashing red light and powerful vibrating bed shaker, even the deepest of sleepers will wake up on time, every day!
Gifts for Pets and their Owners
Pet Video Cam – Share Their Adventures
Pet lovers will enjoy this unique high-tech gift that let's them see the world through the eyes of their pet. The DogTek DTK-EYE EYENIMAL Pet Video Cam is a miniature video camera that attaches to their pet's collar and films up to two-and-a-half hours of sound and video. The Pet Video Cam has a 4GB flash memory and plug-and-play feature.
Freedom Leash for Dual Dog Walking
For the two-dog families on your gift buying list, we recommend the new Paws Aboard Freedom Leash that let's pet owners walk two dogs at once safely with one hand. Freedom Leash has two retractable leashes that won't tangle or cross over and accommodates two dogs weighing up to 95 pounds each. The cords are individually retractable and extend up to 10 feet each.
All-in-One Dog Collar — Training, Tracking, E-Fence
This new dog collar does it all – it's a handheld dog trainer, a GPS dog tracker and an invisible wireless dog fence! The D.E. Systems Border Patrol TC1 is completely portable and easy to set up anywhere there's a GPS signal. Pet owners can use it at home, in the field and on family trips. Works for dogs over 35 pounds.
Gifts for Him
iPod Docking Station / Hidden Camera
The guy who has everything will want to protect all of his stuff, and the SleuthGear NightOwl iPod Docking Station does just that. This clever device looks (and works) like an ordinary iPod stereo player, but doubles as a surveillance camera and video recorder that sees in the dark! Its revolutionary IR camera sees up to 30 feet in complete darkness and records motion-activated video day and night onto a memory card.
TV Ears Dual Digital Listening System
Whether your guy is hard of hearing or just likes to crank up the volume while watching his favorite team, the TV Ears 5.0 Digital TV Listener lets him and another person enjoy television at their preferred volume. Unlike some analog models, digital TV Ears amplifies voice pitch frequencies above other sounds, so words, whispers and accents are easy to understand. Works with just about any TV. Comes with two wireless headsets that recharge on the transmitter base.
Cellular / Solar Remote Temperature Monitor
If your guy has a remote, outdoor place where he needs to keep track of the temperature (like a barn, vineyard or remote cabin), the new Temperature@lert Cellular Solar Temperature Monitor is the solution. It's solar-powered, so it needs no electricity. And because it communicates via cellular, it doesn't need a landline phone or Internet connection. It's also weatherproof, so it withstands extreme environments. Temperature alerts are sent by phone call, text or email.
Unusual Gifts for Homeowners
Linteater Dryer Vent Cleaning System
Here's a novel gift to keep families safe from one of the most common causes of household fires – clothes dryer vent fires. These unexpected fires can occur when a build up of lint blocks the flow of air, resulting in excessive heat. A LintEater Dryer Vent Cleaning System makes cleaning the vent hose quick and easy, minimizing fire risk and making dryers more energy efficient. Pair it with a LintGard Dryer Safety Monitor which indicates when the lint buildup is reaching dangerous levels.
Emergency Weather Alert Radio with Crank
Bring someone a little peace-of-mind by giving them a weather alert radio that automatically announces official, up-to-the-minute information on severe weather, local hazards and other emergencies. A good choice is the Midland XT511 22-Channel GMRS Emergency Crank Radio that has five power options (including a hand-crank), so it works even during power outages. Receives and reports NOAA weather alerts and has AM/FM stations, a built-in flashlight and an alarm clock.
Refrigerator/Freezer Power Outage Alert
No one wants to lose an entire refrigerator or freezer full of food because of a tripped circuit breaker or power outage. The Long Range Refrigerator/Freezer Power Outage Alert Set alerts you anywhere inside your house with both audio (extra-loud 95dB siren) and visual sensors when a designated outlet loses power. The operating range is 800 feet so it's great for monitoring appliances located far away and out-of-sight in the basement or garage.
Gifts for the Vacation Cottage
Cellular Alarm for Protecting Vacant Homes
Vacation homeowners will appreciate this simple device that protects their cottage 24/7 from water damage, high or low room temperature, sump failures, smoke, carbon monoxide, water level, motion and more. The DIY Cellular Alarm for Homes monitors any two emergency conditions (plus power outages). If there's a problem, the alarm instantly sends a text message to up to three cell phone numbers. For homes where landline phone and Internet are turned off during the off-season, a cellular alarm is the perfect solution.
Freeze Alarm – Best Defense for Frozen Pipes
Power outages and furnace failures can occur at anytime, resulting in a dangerous drop in indoor temperature that can cause pipes to freeze and burst. A freeze alarm, like our popular Intermediate Freeze Alarm model, is the best protection against this kind of catastrophe. If the power goes out or the indoor temperature gets too low, this freeze alarm automatically calls up to three phone numbers. Homeowners can also call in from any phone to get temperature, power and battery status.
24/7 Protection against Leaky Washing Machines
Washing machine floods can go undetected for days or weeks in an unoccupied vacation home, spilling 500 gallons of water per hour onto the floor! A Floodstop Washing Machine Valve Shutoff Kit prevents this kind of disaster by immediately turning off the hot and cold water supply as soon as it detects water under or near the washing machine. Easy to install and provides 24/7 protection.
Gifts for Technology Buffs
"Build Your Own" Home Automation System
The techies on your list will love being able to control and monitor their home remotely from any web-enabled mobile device with a Mi Casa Verde Z-Wave Home Automation system. This "build your own" kit allows you to pick the sensors and accessories you want for controlling temperature, lighting, heating, appliances, motion detectors and more. Compatible with all Z-Wave and INSTEON devices.
Advanced Security System for Techie DIY-ers
Technology aficionados are usually big fans of do-it-yourself systems, and this Wisdom Wireless Security System will not disappoint! Rated by "Consumer's Digest" for having exceptional value, Wisdom Wireless offers advanced wireless technology and a broad range of optional components. Give techies on your list the basic kit and they can design a customized home security system that's on par with a professional installation.
Programmable Thermostat with a WiFi Option
The Venstar ColorTouch® is the advanced program-it-yourself thermostat that's both attractive and easy to use. You can even customize the background of the touch-screen display with your own photos! For techies who want the option of remote temperature control from their smart phone or mobile device, add the Skyport Wi-Fi Key for the ColorTouch thermostat.
Gift Ideas for the Security Conscious
Affordable Home Security
Here's an affordable wireless security system that installs in minutes. The STI Burglar Stopper System is controlled by a Smart Panel that monitors wireless sensors in up to 8 zones. Comes with 2 door/window sensors but accommodates an unlimited number of optional wireless sensors. Also includes 1 motion sensor and a remote key fob controller. Because there are no wires to run or holes to drill, it's the perfect solution for older homes.
Surveillance You Watch on Your Smartphone
This outdoor surveillance system is for anyone who wants to guard their home, business or property. If activity or motion is detected, SVAT Smartphone Compatible System 11020 instantly sends an email alert. Want to see what's going on? Log in and watch "live" footage from anywhere on your smartphone or computer! Kit includes 4 outdoor night vision cameras, a 500GB DVR, and everything you need for easy installation.
Wireless Doorbell and Intercom Set
No one wants to open the door to strangers! With a Chamberlain Doorbell & Intercom System, they won't have to run that risk ever again. Includes a doorbell with a built-in speaker that transmits up to 1,000 feet away to the weather-resistant intercom. Both units are wireless, battery powered and portable.
Gifts for Seniors and Grandparents
Automatic Pill Dispenser with Alarm
Here's a thoughtful gift for seniors, caregivers or anyone on multiple medications – a medication reminder and automated pill dispenser in one device. The Med-E-Lert Automatic Pill Dispenser with Alarm holds up to one week's supply of pills (up to 4X per day) in 28 compartments. It's easy to program and alerts with both a tone and blinking red light. A tamperproof locking key system helps prevent over-medication.
Reminder Rosie – The Hands-Free Reminder Clock
This voice-controlled "reminder" clock provides seniors with an easy way to remember medications, appointments, bill payments, tasks, etc. — without having to touch any buttons! Reminder messages are recorded in the user's own voice. Reminder Rosie plugs into a wall outlet for power, but backup batteries retain the clock time and alarm settings during power outages. The clock is easy to read with large LED numbers and an extra loud alarm.
Hard of Hearing Phone System
An amplified phone makes it easier for people with mild to severe hearing loss to enjoy loud, clear telephone conversations. Volume and tone are both adjustable on the Amplicom PowerTel 760 Assure Amplified Corded Telephone,which has a corded base, big easy-to-read buttons, built-in answering machine, speakerphone, caller ID and more. System comes with one cordless handset to use in another room. Up four handsets or accessories can be added.
Fire and Smoke Alarm for the Hearing Impaired
If you have loved ones who are hearing impaired and you worry how they'll know if there's a fire, get them the Bellman Safe Fire Alerting Solution. In the event of a fire, the smoke detector signals the alarm clock and bed shaker which triggers an extra loud alarm signal, flashing lights and vibrations. The Bellman Safe Fire System is designed for people with hearing loss and comes complete and ready to use.
Two-Way Personal Emergency Response Pendant
Seniors living alone need a reliable way to call out for help if there's an emergency. With a Freedom Alert Personal Emergency Response System, your senior can dial up to four pre-programmed emergency phone numbers with just the push of a button and have a two-way conversation with family, friends or neighbors. If no one answers, the Freedom Alert can dial 911. Works on any standard phone line and has no extra monthly fees.
If you are still searching for that special gift and didn't see it on this list of unique gift ideas, check out the diycontrols.com store site for other great products and holiday deals.