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Hello everyone. I'm working on a semi-serif display face, which is currently unnamed. My working title is "Teutonia Serif", because the letterforms are in part based on Teutonia, a geometric display face that was cut in Offenbach by the Roos & Junge type foundry in 1902.
I'd love to hear any feedback that anyone here might have.
|teutonia serif.pdf
|teutonia serif 2-Hrant 1.pdf
it's lookin good, Dan. very nice. just a few personal preferences: I think i'd like k,v,w,x,y,K,V,W,X,Y with just the entry stroke and no exit stroke. i'd like to see an atempt to put a serif on the end of the ampersand's arm. i think if you're going to serify the 2, you might as well do 3 & 5 as well. keep up the good work!
p.s. and welcome back!
Thanks again Paul [Paul has already seen this design once]. I put exit strokes on the k, v, w, x, y, K, V, W, X, and Y because the overall spacing looked really awful without them. The diagonals would bash into the entry-serifs of the letters that have them (d, e, g, o, etc don't have top-left serifs…).
Good idea with the ampersand and 3 and 5.
I'm glad to be back in Germany. France is a beautiful country but it is sad to not be able to speak their language :(
Sorry, very fast, I like it, Q tail is weak, S is kind of upside down.
See you,
Alessandro Segalini
The foot serif of the f doesn't read right to me.
Kevin, I've added an image of four lowercase fs above.
The third f shows my first f. The fourth shows the current design: I wanted to get some weight down there on the baseline. The first two are some other options. do you like one of them better?
i'd say either 2 or 3. the current f almost looks like a stylized E or even a sterling symbol.
I concur. 2 has that baseline sturdiness but is far less confusing.
Paul, I just uploaded a new number-string, with the bottom serif of the 2 on the 3 and 5 as well. I don't know… the serif on the top of the 2 and the 7 would definitely not work on the 5 (not pictured). What do you think?
BTW, are PNG files ok for everybody? I just saved the newest image as a PNG, which I've never uploaded before… they're kosher in every browser sans uralt-IE, right?
This is pretty cool, especially some of the caps. But are you sure you want to make the UC [that much] darker? And I think the ascenders should either be exactly cap height, or they should be a full "notch" higher. I myself would go with the latter, as I think it would give the face some added elegance too, which would be refreshing.
f: Your original form has the problem of "E"-confusion, and it looks like it's leaning backwards. You don't think just the form with no serifs at the bottom makes great sense?
g: I wonder if you couldn't do something with it...
i: I might try removing the half-serif, to somewhat relieve paragraph texture of all those top-left half-serifs.
j: Make the tail terminal much stronger.
k: Either move the right half-serif to the bottom, or make the leg stronger than the arm (maybe by raising the joint height).
s: I would try putting the weight in the (horizontal) spine, taking it away from the top-left and bottom-right sidewalls.
t: I would make it wider (on the right). This would prevent the bottom looking like a half-serif.
u: Maybe move the half-serif from the top-left to the bottom-right.
v, w, y: You sure you want half-serifs at the top-rights?
x: I'd give half-serifs to the top-left and bottom-right only.
eszet: I might dump the nick. And maybe make the bottom bowl wider.
B: Narrower top?
D: Killer.
E: Shorter top bar.
F: Wider.
J: Love the nick, but maybe give the bottom a diagonal finish, or even an angled stroke, to help recognition.
K: Same as in the lc.
L: Shorter up-serif. Wider.
N: Very nice.
Q: No go. Maybe a stub coming straight down from the right wall?
T: Wider.
V, W, Y, X: Same as above. And the slant in the "X" join doesn't work for me. But the "Y" is super.
Z: Too much like a "2".
&: No go.
Nums: I like your originals - I'd just dump the serif on the "2". And make the "7" wider. Plus the one needs a straight beak.
?: I wonder if you couldn't do something special with it.
Euro: Love it!!
Registered/Copyright: It would be nice if you could make the former [relatively] smaller.
I can see this selling; the texture is compelling.
Thanks, Hrant.
I've deleted some of the older attachments above (but not the first PDF), and I've added a new PDF that incorporates Hrant's changes (it is the PDF with Hrant 1 in the name).
Hrant, I've implemented most of your suggestions, sans the u,v,w,x,y (and their respective caps) for now. I did raise the ascender height significantly, and I raised the x-height a bit to compensate. Note that the lowercase is now relatively narrower.
I can see this selling; the texture is compelling.
I hope so. I will distribute this face commercially, and hopefully soon. But I haven't settled on a vendor yet.
Interesting effort--this can be a unique look. My feeling is that it doesn't quite 'click' yet as far as the relative weights of the horizontal and vertical strokes, and as far as the widths--too narrow in the lower case. On the weight, I suspect the horizontal and vertical should have less contrast.
On the serifs on diagonal letters, I think the exit strokes on the caps work, but not the lower case. It should be possible to space them without right serifs because this kind of thing is on some traditional serifed italics. Kerning probably very needed. On the x, you could try the serif on the exit lower right instead of upper right.
The diagonal cuts on the stem of the D look good, but out of place. In think it would be better either made to conform with the rest, or change others to conform with it.
The bottom of the S looks squashed; I would make it more like the lower case s. The join of the P bowl at the bottom is too low, it threatens to become a D. Should the cap X have serifs on the bottom too? Right bottom of N distracting. K too wide? M not wide enough? Serif on the lower E bar looks way too heavy. The one serif on the H looks lonely, it needs bottom right or all four, maybe.
The lc e might look better wider. I think when you divide the letter & have the smaller counters it needs width for balance.
Overall, I think this is very promising, but needs a lot of work on relative width of characters and weight of strokes and where to put serifs & their length to look really balanced and good. Varying more the widths of characters and lengths of serifs will eventually get everything to look more optically uniform and balanced. Being more physically uniform will always look awkward.
Because it is a good concept, it demands a lot of work to bring it to its full potential. You will see new things every day for months, and then it will be what you want.
Good luck!
The (u.c.) P is the weakest link, I think. Perhaps because of the serif at the bottom, which the R lacks, the bowl looks too big and too close to the bottom. It even took me a while to recognize it was a P.
William, I've attached a new PDF to the lead thread of this post. The PDF is called "drupal," but it should be called "Teutonia Serif 3-William 1.pdf"… anyway, in that PDF, I've begun address your points in your post above. I think that the uppercase may be a bit, too heavy now. What do you think?
Ori, I've changed the uppercase P a bit, too.
Dan, it's progressing well. I don't think the upper case is too heavy; in the current state it's working better than the lower case. The whole design is going to be very assertive because of its squareness, so I would say just go with it.
My only current problems with the upper case letter forms as far as balance are the vertical serifs on the bottom of the E and L, and the horizontal serif on the T. The vertical serifs look to heavy. I would thin them slightly. I think they can be subtly thinner than the other verticals, because they are serifs. The T starts to read as an I, which is distracting. Your F doesn't have a foot serif, and I suspect the T will do fine without it.
On the lower case, I think the basic forms are good now. The vertical serifs on the c and r might be thinned slightly like the E and L on the upper case. or maybe only the c serif.
The striking thing is that now the lower case, while wider has way too much 'dazzle'in the smaller size. Currently there is an optical illusion of the corners having hairlines shooting from them, which is surprising. I suspect this has to do with the weight of it --did you increase the weight? --but particularly with too tight spacing.
I think you have a lot of spacing issues, on both the upper and lower case, but it's affecting the lower case most. On the upper case alphabet, for example, the HIJ look much tighter than your MON. You might have to adjust your serifs, like the top of the J in order to get everything to work.
My suspicion is that the lower case would be better lighter, but mainly with looser spacing. I guess you need to figure what is the minimum size you want this used at, and then work on it accordingly. Again the spacing on the lower case is quite uneven. For example in the alphabet the nop are much looser than the lmn. I would loosen the latter rather than tighten the former, because of the dazzle issue, but basically see what works.
I think at this point working on the spacing is key, because that will also tell you what letter forms or weights you need to modify as well.
So overall, I think you have the basic letter forms down pretty well, and the issue is spacing and color--both the overall darkness, and particular the issue of evenness.
On evenness, is your eszett too dark on the top? Maybe try thinning the left vertical slightly, and the diagonal? The thing is, to get evenness of color--and I think that it the main challenge at this point--you will probably need to vary the width of stems slightly, as well as respace. For example the B stem is often thinned slightly. Playing around with this kind of stuff and getting right will make this design 'itself' and polished.
One thing you might think about to get the direction is what this will be used for. Sports? Bands? That mood might help guide you in finishing it.
It has a nice blackletter updated look which does not surprise me coming from you. Besides the metal bands angle William mentioned, I think it has a nice between bitmap and PostScript niche.
I can't seem to get the Drupa file for some reason, I am using Safari.
Hmmm… Chris, it downloads for me in Safari 2.0 (Mac OS X 10.4 Tiger)… so sad!
I've uploaded the file to my web space. Here is a link to it:
I'll be posting an updated PDF soon, which will reflect William's most recent suggestions.
I got it now! Looks good too! The more I look at it the better I like it. It does a Russian Costructivist thing with Blackletter. It has that El Lizzitsky feel but with the warmth of manuscript illumination. Let me know when it is for sale and who you are selling it through, I will buy it for sure.
My only crit is that the weight of the caps seems a bit too heavy for the lower case.
I've got a thing about this Russian Constructivist style… a lot of fonts billed as "Russian Constructivist" were actually made in fin-de-siècle Germany. (The basic model for this face included).
My theory, which I need to investigate, is this: these forward-thinking German Display Faces were not really accepted or used in Germany at the time. People tended more toward organic art nouveau things. Then during and after World War I, a lot of display work moved (back?) into solid calligraphic blackletter styles, a la Rudolf Koch.
But German typefoundries did big buisness with printers in Czarist Russia. Somehow, these types must have gotten to Russia before the revolution (because international trade shut down after it…). I suspect that, when the Bolsheviks took over, things kept being printed in typefaces that were on hand. It must have taken a while for new "Soviet" types to be cast.
Or maybe Russian designers and typefounders just copied and changed similar European designs? Perhaps it wasn't so commercial. But I still think it is pre-revolution.
By the 1930s, I think that what a lot of what westerners typically think of as "Russian Constructivist" was gone. I think that the Stalinist regime had other ideas of what Soviet design should look like. But I can't speak with any authority on Russian typography. Paul? Anybody?
looks good, dan. just a few comments (personal preferences if you will). The tail of the Q is bothering me. Maybe come up with a different solution. I didn't think the original was so bad... I know i said to add a serif to the ampersand, but that looks just a bit ackward. Maybe try finetuning it just a bit more. And I like the bar you put on the J, nice touch!
So, since my audience isn't Russian or Cyrillic, I'd rather go to the "roots" of this style. The result is something different than constructivist, I think, because there is still some art nouveau and blackletter traces in there (and there would me even more if I had some long-s lgatures…).
The Russian Avant Garde movement with Rodchenko, Malevich, and El Lizzitsky, et al., with Supremacists bloomed in the early revolutionary time. There was also interaction with the Dutch De Stihl. Stalin wasn't a fan of many of these guys (I think he thought them to be too intellectual for the "worker" and pushed for a national worker style. The Bauhaus people were fans however and you can see the relationship. To me, this was a design culture which blurred national borders. Later, Stalin kibashed the Russian avant garde and Hitler in time did the same to the Bauhaus gang. Nationalism triumphed over the young cutting edge designers. Later, the Basel folks "rediscovered" El Lizzitsky and Rodchenko and their typography reflected that. The so-called "New Wave" designers of the 80's grew out of this extension with designers like Dan Friedman and April Greiman.
Willam, Paul, Chris… in this thread's first post is a new PDF, called "teutonia_serif_3_will_2.pdf".
William's Sun, 2005-10-09 17:17 items are addressed here, including the E and the L serifs, the T, the c, the r, and some overall spacing.
For Paul I've changed the Q and the ampersand.
Chris, I didn't thin out the uppercase any yet. I'm not sure what I'm going to do there (see my discussion with William above).
William, because of the audience of the foundry who'll most likely distribute this, I'm assuming that the primary customers will be indy music and fashion clients. Sports is unlikely.
I think your latest looks better. The spacing is very blackletter and part of its charm.
The lc e looks like the right upper vertical needs to be thinned a hair to correct optically withe the taller vertical at left. I am sure that they are actually the exact same thickness now. The illusion makes the right side look thicker though.
How is this going? The other day I saw a book at an opera director's house which was old and perhaps used the precursor font you mentioned above. It was a German book on German music. I will try to borrow it to make a scan.
Just got back from travelling. I like the revisions. The upper case E is especially better--making the lower arm longer really works here.
Good luck with it.
Good work Dan.
I'll make only one comment concerning your D. To me he's look out of the game, although it could gave some personality to the face. He is the only glyph with cutted stem and his angle looks like a calligraphic letter. Did you try to simply join this stem with the top and the bottom arms?
"It was a German book on German music."
Dan, I was wrong on 2 counts, it was an English book on Oscar wilde!
Here is the scan:
"...only glyph with cutted stem and his angle looks like a calligraphic letter"
I think Dan might be trying to stay true to the original which inspired his design.
Chris, the type on that bookcover is a revival of Teutonia, which I have also already revived… Mine will be released by a small German foundry sometime in 2006, but under a different name—probably "Mountain."
(Mountain includes small caps & obliques… of course R&J's 1902 original "Teutonia" didn't have anything in the way of additions or ornament. So far, I think only Paul Hunt here as seen it… I don't want to publicly display it, since it's initial marketing is in the hands of its foundry. I'll make some small hoopla about it when it debuts for sale online)
André, Chris is correct in that the D in Teutonia Serif harkens back to the original Teutonia's quirkiness. But you are right, it doesn't fit in with the design. Teutonia Serif (which will someday have a wicked-cool name…) is its own design, a design with a clear inspiration, but no longer a revival. I've changed the D.
Sorry Dan, I did'nt see the original D.
Edit: but I still think, event though it's different from the original typeface, you could change the way the D is done.
André, you were right, so I wrote at the end of my last post that I would in fact change the D (see the post right above yours, or two before this one)! I'll post a PDF in a few hours.
A new PDF can be seen here:
Dan, your last send with the new D is really good and more intregrate to the entire face.
Looks very good Dan! Best of luck with the forthcoming distribution.


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Is Simonton Prism Platinum same as Generations?
I am replacing 21 windows in my home built on 1994 in Richmond, Virginia area. They are:
1) 18 double hung
2) 1 double hung with obscure glass
3) 2 picture windows with tampered glass (they are near the tub).
With standard features like double pane, Low-E, Argon filled and wrapping of old trims outside with vinyl coated aluminum.
After doing a lot of research online and talking to multiple salesmen from Pella, Home Depot, Champion, Lowes, Window World and few other local contractors here are the quotes:
1) Window World 4000 series: $7300
2) Lowes Atrium 3201:$7240
3) HD VantagePointe 6100: $10300
4) Pella Encompass: $10500
5) Champion: $13700 (I do not have a model name/number for this)
6) Simonton Prism Bronze: $8300 (1st local contractor)
7) Generations: $10200 (same local contractor as above)
8) Simonton Prism Platinum: $11900 (2nd local contractor)
So, here are my questions:
The salesperson (1st local contractor) told me Generations is practically the same as Prism Platinum. It's just a private label. Is that accurate?
If that is accurate, 2nd local contractor's price for Prism Platinum is inflated. Correct?
Pella Encompass doesn't have good reviews. Am I correct to rule it out?
Champion is 30% more expensive. Am I correct to rule it out?
Base on my research, HD 6100 is equivalent to Prism Bronze. If that's accurate, HD quote is inflated compared to 1st local contractor. Correct?
Do you guys have any opinion about Lows and Window World?
If Generations and Prism Platinum are equivalent, I am leaning towards Generations. But is the 20% more in cost over Prism Bronze worth?
Thank you all in advance.
You really need to expand your search. Although the simonton vantage point is probably the best of the group, its still regarded as mid grade with basically average performance numbers. The other brands such as pella, atrium, and window world are complete garbage and cheaply made.
I would look in HiMark/Okna, Soft Lite Elements, or Sunrise Restorations. I would also look into contacting " windows on washington", i know they use well designed products and have an install team that is second to none. They are right in your back yard if im not mistaken.
I would echo what mmarse said in that there are probably better units out there and I am not a huge fan of most of the windows on that list.
We don't currently service Richmond but Google'ing around on those other brands will probably land you some hits still.
Don't know if the Generations is the same as the Platinum. The Platinum is a pretty nice mid range window. I would upgrade it to have sash reinforcement and upgrade the spacer. They offer many glass packages so choose what is best for you.Usually the Prism lines have a little better warranties and double strength glass standard vs the same window in the other lines.20% more is a fair price to upgrade, I'd suggest looking at the windows.The Simonton loses a bit of glass space so on smaller windows it can be noticeable, on bigger windows you don't tend to ntice as much and I prefer the beefy look on full framed windows.
It would make sense to price out some of the other windows mentioned as they are great choices and sometimes prices can be fairly close maybe even lower.
Make sure to get a great install and know all of the details about the install and the window.


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Yeah I found this move solid, lots of leverage off that undercut, I think I'll revel in saying it's harder for the tall :-p Mike Goldthorp - Sent x - 10/Feb/15 with Ducko, alex mason
Soft V8 is fair.EdGS - Sent rpt - 17/Jul/14 with Rory
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2nd go. Very nice.Beastly Squirrel - Sent x - 15/Jul/14 with Eliot Stephens, Chris Shepard
Hidden - Sent x - 10/Jul/14
EliotStephens - Sent - 19/Jun/14 with Celyn, Will, Ashwh
AshWH - Sent x - 19/Jun/14 with Eliot S
Hidden - Sent - 03/Apr/14
fun but easy v8?whitehouse_rhys - Sent O/S - 09/Jan/14 with isaac
such a fun and satisfying move when it goes. it would be a one move v7 if it finished at the hole, but with the top out low end V8 is fair.Timothy Graham Peck - Sent x - 14/Sep/13 with Andy, Charly
hebson - Sent x - 23/Aug/13 with kobe
Flashed move done top beforefyfee8a - 05/Apr/13 with alexmannionclimbing
Ross.Cooper - Sent dnf - 01/Dec/12 with Phil Wilkinson, Patrick Hill
kieranrex - 20/Oct/12 with Andy Penk, Tim Peck, Jamie
ducko - 07/Aug/12
flashed but had previously done top out grey wolf - Sent x - 17/Jul/12
2nd go but had done the top out before. Not V8, only one move really, v7BenNorman - Sent x - 17/Jul/12
Hidden - Sent - 27/Sep/11
I like this problem.smallerrich - Sent x - 04/Sep/11 with Chris D, Dave N
Luke Dawson - Sent x - 26/Aug/11
lx - Sent - 17/Aug/11 with will smith
jacobjacob - Sent x - 20/Feb/11
Hidden - Sent x - 22/Jan/11
Lloyders - Sent x - 19/Nov/10
Hidden - Sent x - 08/Oct/10
need more POWER!samrad - Sent dnf - 24/Sep/10 with smallerrich
Brandon Copley - Sent O/S - 21/Aug/09 with liam
Nearly fell off rocking over, but pulled it out the bag.Liam Copley - Sent β - 20/Aug/09 with Brandon
beta flash as had seen someone on it a few days ago.Richard Hession - Sent β - 08/Apr/09
Users with this climb on their wishlist are:


text:
Photo Galleries
< MyNorthwest
Spain to restrict cellphone use for train drivers
Spain to restrict cellphone use for train drivers
11 of 11
The speaker of the house, Jesus Posadas, center, flanked by Conservative Economy Minister Luis de Guindos, center left, and socialist opposition leader Alfredo Perez Rubalcaba, center right, stand for of a minute of silence for the train crash victims with ministers and deputies outside the Spanish parliament in Madrid, Spain Thursday July 25, 2013. Spanish investigators tried to determine Thursday why a passenger train jumped the tracks and sent eight cars crashing into each other just before arriving in this northwestern shrine city on the eve of a major Christian religious festival, killing at least 77 people and injuring more than 140. (AP Photo/Paul White)
Photo by Paul White
Photo by Paul White
11 of 11
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Amanda Knox and her family celebrate acquittal
Italy's highest court overturned the murder conviction against Amanda Knox and her ex-boyfriend Friday over the 2007 slaying of Knox's roommate, bringing to a definitive end to the high-profile case.
Week in Photos
Photos from around the world this week.
Hundreds gather to commemorate one-year mark of Oso mudslide
A solemn crowd gathered to honor 43 people who lost their lives a year ago in the deadliest landslide in U.S. history.
Photos: Oso one year after deadly mudslide
Sunday is the one-year anniversary of the slide, and although most of the mangled cars and homes have been cleaned up, reminders of loss are everywhere.
Week in photos
Take a look at the best photos of the week from around the world.
Tuesday in photos
St. Patrick's Day, March 17, 2015.
Monday in photos
Monday, March 16, 2015.
Week in photos
Photos from around the world this week.
Friday in photos
The second of three Friday the 13ths in 2015; Friday, March 13, 2015.
Thursday in photos
Thursday, March 12, 2015.


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Featured Book
When Alaana is called upon to become shaman for her Anatatook people she faces vengeful ghosts and hungry demons in this epic adventure set in the arctic wastes. Book One of Five.
Featured Member
Kay Kenyon
Kay Kenyon is the author of 11 sf/f novels including her fantasy, A Thousand Perfect Things, August 2013. Her work has been short-listed for the Philip K. Dick Award and John W. Campbell awards.


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VSSC and the NY Red Bulls are hosting Spring Camp from 4/6 - 4/10.
Our camp is open to all children from ages 6 - 14.
Non-stop FUN in a LEARNING environment! GREAT source of TRAINING for any and all players!
All registrants will receive a FREE Red Bulls t-shirt, FREE soccer ball, and more!
CLICK HERE to REGISTER TODAY
Get 15% OFF your next MODELL'S purchase by using our Club Coupon. Share this coupon with your friends, co-workers, and family.
Click HERE to print the coupon
Here are some helpful tips to make sure your child is developing as a player
Please be sure to give accurate contact information so we can get back to you and take your suggestion seriously.
All our members (parents and coaches) Must read and abide by the guidelines noted in our Parent-Coaches Guide
Click on the image above to read the guide.


text:
Gameboy Color
Easy 10 million point bonus for Pokemon PinballHome / Gameboy Color /
This page contains Pokemon Pinball Hints for Gameboy Color called "Easy 10 million point bonus" and has been posted or updated on Nov 17, 2006 by Amaterasu. Let us know what you think of this Hint by thumbs voting.
Boxshot / Details
- Developer: Jupiter Multimedia
- Publisher: Nintendo
- Genre: Miscellaneous Parlor Pinball
- Release Date: Jun 28, 1999
- ESRB: Everyone
Easy 10 million point bonus
Upgrade your Pokeball all the way to a Masterball by turning on all the lights on the top half of a board. Then, try to upgrade it one more time. This is much easier than having to evolve a Pokemon with a star next to its
All Hints
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A very large and historic dust storm moved through a large swath of Arizona during the late afternoon and evening hours of July 5, 2011. Widespread reports of near zero visibility and winds gusting over 50 MPH (80 kph) were received by the NWS Phoenix office. Based on radar data, it is estimated that this dust storm reached a peak height of at least 5000 to 6000 ft (1500 to 1800 m). The aerial coverage was very expansive, with the leading edge stretching for almost 100 mi (160 km). The distance traveled was at least 150 mi (240 km). Note this page remains in the process of being updated with additional information.
Image taken at 745 PM looking south toward South Mountain from the NWS Phoenix office in Tempe (near Priest & Washington) as the large dust storm approached.
Strong to severe thunderstorms developed east of Tucson, AZ during the afternoon hours of July 5, 2011. The storms intensified as they progressed west into the Tucson Metropolitan Area, producing downburst winds in excess of 70 MPH (110 KPH). Aided by gravity (Tucson is approximately 1500 ft/460 m higher than Phoenix) and additional downbursts from the parent storms, these strong outflow winds proceeded to race off to the northwest, with the leading edge moving at 30 to 40 MPH (45 to 65 KPH). By 630 PM (0130 UTC) the first calls came in to NWS Phoenix that a large wall of dust was approaching the Casa Grande/Eloy, AZ area, roughly 50 mi (75 km) southeast of Downtown Phoenix.
Another important factor that led to this significant dust storm was the on-going drought across the region. The most recent U.S. Drought Monitor placed the area between Tucson and Phoenix in D1 (Moderate) to D3 (Extreme) drought. Rainfall since the end of the last summer has been less than 50% of normal.
Drought levels across Arizona prior to the dust storm, ranging from extreme drought near Tucson to moderate drought closer to Phoenix.
Percent of normal rainfall across Arizona since October 1, 2010.
Note that additional information will be added to this section pertaining to the meteorology of this event.
At 7 PM MST (02 UTC) the leading edge of the massive dust storm hit the far southeast portions of the Phoenix area. The dust continued to push further and eventually through the entire metropolitan area during the next two hours. Trained spotters inundated NWS Phoenix with reports of literally zero visibility and winds gusting 30 to 50 MPH (50 to 80 KPH). A few measured wind gusts even approached 70 MPH (110 KPH).
At 626 PM MST (0126 UTC) the NOAA/Storm Prediction Center issued a Severe Thunderstorm Watch for Maricopa and Pinal Counties, including the Phoenix Metropolitan Area, until 11 PM MST (06 UTC). NWS Phoenix issued the Local Dust Storm Warning 632 PM MST (0132 UTC) for the areas southeast of Phoenix, expanding the warning for the East Valley of Phoenix at 655 PM MST (0155 UTC) and nearly all of the Phoenix area at 721 PM MST (0221 UTC). Additional Local Dust Storm Warnings were issued as the dust cloud rolled west of the Phoenix area.
Dust Storm Warning #1 | Dust Storm Warning #2 | Dust Storm Warning #3
NWS Phoenix meteorologists are keenly aware that strong to severe thunderstorms in the Tucson area, given the right atmospheric conditions, are capable of producing dust storms in the area from Tucson northwest into Phoenix. Key to detecting dust storms is doppler radar and trained spotters on the ground. The lowest elevation radar data available to meteorologists in the area between Phoenix and Tucson is roughly 4,000 ft (1200 m) above the ground, making initial detection of the dust storm difficult. In addition, radar data do not inform the meteorologist as to how dense (i.e. how low the visibility) the dust is. Fortunately over the years a number of private citizens have become trained storm spotters in the area, acting as the eyes on the ground for the NWS (not just in Arizona, but across the country). Initial reports in Eloy, AZ of a significant dust storm approaching from the southeast were quickly acted on. NWS radar soon confirmed the location and expanding area of the dust storm (see images below). Doppler radar data indicated widespread winds in excess of 40 to 50 MPH (60 to 80 KPH) as the cloud rolled northwest.
NWS radar image at 745 PM (0245 UTC) of the expansive dust storm as it moved into the Phoenix area. Click here for an animated radar loop (20 MB). Click here for an animated radar loop (19 MB).
This dust storm did allow NWS Phoenix meteorologists to see how the new dual polarization (dual-pol) capabilities of the NWS Phoenix radar may help. It is noted that looking at the dual-pol variable correlation coefficient, the signal was very low along and behind the leading edge of the dust storm. It is not known yet whether this is a signature of all dust storms or just intense ones as this is the first dust storm to be sampled by the new dual-pol radar.
NWS Phoenix radar image at 6:54 PM MST (0154 MST) of the approaching dust storm, this time looking at the dual polarization variable correlation coefficient.
The immediate impacts were wide and many. Local media covered the dust storm extensively as it occurred, showing direct impacts to the area's transportation system. Traffic on area roadways and highways crawled to a stop in most areas (dust storm safety tips). Air traffic into and out of Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport was stopped for 45 minutes. Reports of broken large branches and trees blown down were noted. No estimate is available as to the negative costs associated with this event, though they likely are substantial due to noted infrastructure damage and delays caused across a large area and through a wide swath of the local society.
Clean-up quickly began the following day as the entire city was now coated in a layer of dust. Included in the clean-up were car washes, swimming pools, streets, and buildings. No estimate is available as to the positive costs associated with this event.
The dust storm in Phoenix quickly generated intense and international interest. NWS Phoenix meteorologist conducted over 40 interviews with local, national, and even international media outlets. A quick search showed over 1,000 news articles and blog postings hit the web within 24 hours of the event.
A dusty NWS employee's car. Note that the air remains hazy, nearly three hours after the dust storm moved through.
Dust storms are a common phenomenon across the Sonoran Desert in the Southwest U.S. during the North American Monsoon. During an average year, generally one to three dust storms will move into the Phoenix area - predominantly from the southeast. Across all of Arizona, over 100 dust storms have been reported in the past 10 years according to NCDC Storm Data. While records of most widespread, most intense, largest, etc., dust storms are not kept, NWS meteorologists that have worked in Phoenix for almost 30 years have said this was one of the most significant dust storms they have experienced.
A dust storm usually arrives suddenly in the form of an advancing wall of dust and debris which may be miles long and several thousand feet high. They strike quickly, making driving conditions hazardous. Blinding, choking dust can reduce visibility to near zero in just one to two minutes, causing accidents that may involve chain collisions, creating massive pileups. Dust storms usually last only 10 to 30 minutes, though dusty conditions may remain for some time afterward.
If dense dust is observed blowing across or approaching a roadway, pull your vehicle off the pavement as far as possible, stop, turn off lights, set the emergency brake, take your foot off of the brake pedal to be sure the tail lights are not illuminated. In the past, motorists driving in dust storms have pulled off the roadway, leaving lights on. Vehicles approaching from the rear and using the advance car's lights as a guide have inadvertently left the roadway and in some instances collided with the parked vehicle. Make sure all of your lights are off when you park off the roadway. Don't enter the dust storm area if you can avoid it. If you can't pull off the roadway, proceed at a speed suitable for visibility, turn on lights and sound horn occasionally. Use the painted center line to help guide you. Look for a safe place to pull off the roadway. Never stop on the traveled portion of the roadway.
US Dept of Commerce
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
National Weather Service
Phoenix Weather Forecast Office
P.O. Box 52025
Phoenix, AZ 85072
Tel: (602) 275-0073


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Also I didnt back up so cant restore either. Is It possible for somewone to upload the nand and then i flash that?
Really cant use my phone at all.
Edited by AndroidKiller, 07 September 2010 - 07:15 PM.
Jump to content
Edited by AndroidKiller, 07 September 2010 - 07:15 PM.
Need help I was trying to custom rom my pulse mini using the instructions of the ultimate guide but Keep getting the message. Need Help!
Also I didnt back up so cant restore either. Is It possible for somewone to upload the nand and then i flash that?
Really cant use my phone at all.
yes that is fine. Thanks for your help
I'll upload it tommorow and will help with anyting needed, My phone's charging and i'm tired so tommoro
yes that is fine. Thanks for your help
Edited by Danh2122, 08 September 2010 - 06:09 PM.
its coming, just trying to make it decent (and remove my google account)
thanks much appreciated!
Edited by Danh2122, 08 September 2010 - 08:18 PM.
It's Done (At last)
It is a custom rom but should (99% sure) work
What you'll need to do
1)Download this file and extract it to your phone (Yes unzip, so you have a folder called 2010-09-08.19.09.01)
2) Move it to your sd card in a folder called "clockworkmod" and then inside "backup", make sure that inside "2010-09-08.19.09.01" there is 5 files including boot, system etc.
3) Start Recovery on your phone (Make sure it's Koush's Clockwork Recovery) by holding Green Call and Volume up while powering on the phone.
4) Go to Nandroid>Restore then chose the one that says.... 2010-09-08.19.09.01
Hopefully this will work if not message me
Thanks Mate Will Try tommorow and let you know how I get on.
Edited by kallt_kaffe, 09 September 2010 - 06:37 AM.
Just download the official ROM for your phone from: http://www.huaweidev...n...20&treeId=0
I have to switch to Internet Explorer to correctly download their firmwares and the download is slow but it works.
You'll get a zip file, put the "dload" folder on your SD-card.
Power on the phone holding volume-up and hangup and it will automaticly flash the original firmware.
It will restore everything which means it will also remove any custom recovery image.
(there are detailed step by step instructions in the zip-file)
0 members, 0 guests, 0 anonymous users


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Rentschler family farms in Rock County for 100 years
HILLS -- The 80 acres of southwest Minnesota farmland now owned by the Ronald W. and Lori L. Rentschler Revocable Trust is another of the several area properties celebrating a century of family ownership this year.
Located on 11th Street in Hills, and within Rock County's borders, the land was first purchased by R.L. Rentschler and his wife in June 1913 from Lars Engebretson.
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Flamingo Hilton - Rockettes $10 Silver Strike coin
- Sold for: Start FREE Trial! or Sign In to see what it's worth.
- Item Category:
- Source: eBay
- Sold Date: May 09,2007
- Channel: Online Auction
Flamingo Hilton Las Vegas Radio City Rockettes $10.00 Token .999 Fine Silver In Slot Machines for a short time in the late 90's, removed due to Radio City not approving the use of the Rockette image on Gaming Chips or Tokens. Still in plastic case - never opened.
Items in the Worthopedia are obtained exclusively from licensors and partners solely for our members' research needs.


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Staff Reporter
Nagercoil: Widespread rain lashed various parts of the district particularly the catchment areas on Tuesday.
A maximum rainfall of 3 mm was recorded at Pechipparai followed by 2.6 mm in Perunchani, 1.2 mm in Kannimar and 1 mm in Chittar I.
The level in Pechipparai dam stood at 36.15 feet, 53 mm in Perunchani, 8.23 feet in Chittar I, 8.33 feet in Chittar II, 10.95 feet in Mukkadal dam and 7 feet in Poigai dam.
More In: TAMIL NADU | NATIONAL


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The University of Arizona School of Music FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Tuesday, May 6, 2014 What "David Russell: Musician, Scholar, Teacher and Humanitarian" – A Convocation of the University of Arizona School of Music. The Bolton Guitar Studies Program will be celebrating the bestowal of an honorary doctoral degree on David Russell When Friday, May 16, 2014 at 7:00 p.m. Where Holsclaw Hall, UA School of Music, south-east corner of Park and Speedway Cost/Admission Free admission, open to the public Contacts Media: Ingvi Kallen, firstname.lastname@example.com, 520-626-6320 Julia Pernet, Tucson Guitar Society, email@example.com Photos Available upon request Related Websites www.music.arizona.edu tucsonguitarsociety.org guitar.arizona.edu The Bolton Guitar Studies Program at the University of Arizona School of Music is pleased to announce the bestowal of an honorary doctoral degree on David Russell. This honor will be celebrated through several events during the University of Arizona 2014 May graduation. One of the highlights of this celebration will be "David Russell: Musician, Scholar, Teacher and Humanitarian" – A Convocation of the University of Arizona School of Music, to be held at 7:00 p.m. on Friday, May 16, 2014 in Holsclaw Hall. At this event Maestro Russell will be recognized by the students of the Bolton Guitar Studies and the guitar community. This convocation and recital is a tribute to Maestro Russell's accomplishments throughout his career and his tireless humanitarian work with the continuous support of his wife, María Jesús Rodríguez. The program for this event will include a wide range of pieces close to Maestro Russell's heart interpreted by Bolton students and players from the community. They range from his arrangements of Scarlatti and Bach to his wonderful arrangements of Celtic music. Because this honorary event will be held in the intimate setting of Holsclaw Hall, those wishing to attend should email Julia Pernet, chairman of the Tucson Guitar Society, at email@example.com to reserve a seat. Those who have not registered will be admitted if space permits. This event will also be livestreamed. The link will be announced in the Tucson Guitar Society Website and in the Bolton Studies website. About David Russell David Russell is the most sought after classical guitar soloist and teacher of today, widely renowned for his superb musicianship and inspired artistry. David Russell's connection with the University of Arizona started in 1981, playing concerts and giving master classes. These occasional visits eventually became yearly events, providing continuity in his work with students in the guitar program. The quality of his teaching and his outstanding performances drew the attention of Dr. Sandy Bolton, an aficionado of the instrument. The first major gift of the Boltons was to sponsor David's residencies, and Sandy and Phyllis Bolton went on to make major gifts to the guitar studies program. Totalling 4.5 million dollars, it is the largest bequest in the history of the College of Fine Arts. David continues to be artist in residence at the University of Arizona, visiting every spring. His regular participation in master classes draws some of the best students in guitar from around the world to the Bolton Guitar Studies Program. David Russell tours widely, appearing regularly at prestigious halls in the world's major cities, from Wigmore Hall, London, to the Bunka Kaikan in Tokyo, and all major cities between. He also plays with symphony orchestras all over the world, having been under the baton of reputed conductors such as Sir Simon Rattle, performing for large crowds, as he did recently in Chicago with Alondra de la Parra at the Millennium Park. David is currently touring with an innovative project of Golden Globe Award film composer Michael Nyman, with whom he has worked in close collaboration. David has recorded CDs of music from every period, with an extraordinary total of twenty-seven recordings. Since 1995, he has had an exclusive contract with Telarc International, with whom he has made seventeen CDs. A solo recoding every year is an extraordinary accomplishment, and, in addition, his 2005 CD "Aire Latino" won the Grammy Award in the category of best instrumental soloist in classical music. A large number of prominent composers have dedicated works to him that have become standards in the guitar repertoire. Conversely, David's publications of his own transcriptions are widely used by guitar players everywhere. In addition to his musical work, David dedicates much of his time to charitable works. He and his wife, María Jesús, created an NGO (Non Governmental Organization) registered in Spain, called "ONGD David Russell y María Jesús." Through it, they have financed projects of cooperation for the development of water extraction, construction of wells, management of hydraulic infrastructures, groundwork for the hydrological resources and development of the conditions of drinking water, as well as promoting the access to drinking water in African countries. They have built more than 70 wells to date. The second major goal of this organization, is to help with projects of education in India. They have financed the building of four schools in Andra Pradesh, in the area of Anantapur. And the project closest to their hearts is the maintenance of a school in India for 90 disabled children, both physically and mentally handicapped. Although David spends most of the year on tour playing concerts and teaching, the humanitarian work represents a very important part of his life. ###


text:
Is it possible to search for an object by one of its property in a Generic List?
Public Class Customer
Private _id As Integer
Private _name As String
Public Property ID() As Integer
Return _id
End Get
_id = value
End Set
End Property
Public Property Name() As String
Return _name
End Get
_name = value
End Set
End Property
Public Sub New(id As Integer, name As String)
_id = id
_name = name
End Sub
End Class
Then loading and searching
Dim list as new list(Of Customer)
list.Add(New Customer(1,"A")
list.Add(New Customer(2,"B")
How can i return customer object with id =1? Does this have to do with the "Predicate" in Generics.
Note: I am doing this in VB.NET


text:
The post Hollywood's Latin American Fiesta appeared first on Starry-Eyed Travels.]]>
In the 1930s and 40s, the USA in general, and Hollywood in particular, went gaga for all things south of the border. In 1933, Roosevelt launched the 'Good Neighbor' policy, in which he sought to improve the image of the US among Latin American countries. Since it proved somewhat difficult to reassure Latin American governments of his non-interventionist direction, having suffered repeated, heavy-handed military interventions from the US in the past, Roosevelt's Inter-American Office persuaded Hollywood's major production companies to demonstrate this new-found love for everything Latin American through cinema.
So, over the next decade or so, a flurry of films was produced, using the power of song, dance, and Betty Grable's legs, to demonstrate friendship towards countries like Brazil and Argentina, and to show US audiences the positive side to Latin America. Looking at these films nowadays, it can be slightly cringe-inducing to see Carmen Miranda pop up as the token 'Latina', complete with fruit-basket headdress, because, Latin America is 'exotic' you know, or to listen to a Hollywood star mangling the Spanish language, because obviously, darling, we can't have some unknown from Argentina taking on a leading role. It doesn't seem to concern anyone exactly which bit of Latin America the film is about; hence Mexican Dolores Del Rio assumes a Brazilian role, while Brazilian Carmen Miranda is the showpiece of 'Argentine' culture.
Still, there is a clear attempt to minimise the differences between Americans, US and Latin, at least within the upper echelons of society, and boy, are these film fun. Both Flying Down to Rio and Down Argentine Way have extraordinary and unforgettable dance sequences, the kind to make you sigh and think, 'they don't make 'em like that anymore'. Both are also films in which stars were born: the stellar pairing of Ginger Rogers and Fred Astaire in Flying Down to Rio; Betty Grable in Down Argentine Way.
Dashing ladies' man, Roger Bond (Gene Raymond), a band leader, is forever getting himself into trouble by seducing the female guests at the exclusive hotels he plays at. His musicians, among them Fred (Fred Astaire) and Honey (Ginger Rogers) are becoming increasingly frustrated that they keep getting fired, and when Roger gives into temptation once again, falling into the arms of Brazilian socialite Belinha de Rezende (Dolores del Rio), it seems like the last straw. But Roger manages to get them a gig for the opening of the Hotel Atlantico in Rio de Janeiro, which happens to be owned by Belinha's father. Cue dance sequences to the Carioca, a desert island romance, a love triangle, and a whole troupe of dancing girls on the wings of small aeroplanes.
Frivolous and frothy it may be, but it's no wonder this film propelled Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers to stardom. Though they are in supporting roles here, it is their performances that shine, combining the energetic dances and sizzling chemistry which would see them top the box office. The chemistry between Del Rio and Raymond is less believable and their scenes seem a little flat in comparison, though that may say more about Astaire and Rogers' brilliance than anything else. If you just allow the story to wash over you, with its incredulous and occasionally cringe-worthy moments, then the film as a whole is an incredibly enjoyable musical tour de force. The airborne dance finale is simply astounding, and the film is worth watching for that alone. How much it did for Brazilian-US foreign relations is debatable, but it has all the glamour and charm of old-school Hollywood, and it will at least make you fall in love with the carioca.
While Flying Down to Rio, coming before the real push for a 'friendly' cinematic intervention, is fairly restrained in its showcasing of Brazil, Down Argentine Way represents the full force of Hollywood's Latin American charm offensive. Opening with the vibrant Carmen Miranda, dressed in more frills and sparkly baubles than a Christmas tree, the 'exoticism' of this film is immediately apparent.
The story centres on Ricardo Quintana (Don Ameche), a rich Argentine who breeds and sells thoroughbred horses. On a business trip to New York, he meets and falls in love with Glenda Crawford (Betty Grable), also a wealthy horse-owner. However, after discovering that she is the daughter of his father's arch enemy, he backs out of a deal to sell her a horse, and hotfoots it back to Argentina. In the company of her aunt, Glenda follows him. She finds him again while out with a 'guide' of somewhat dubious morals, at a Carmen Miranda show. As love blossoms, the pair must contend with Don Quintana's hatred of the Crawford family, while attempting to get a prize racehorse back on the track.
The film made stars of both Carmen Miranda and Betty Grable within the US, and it could not be accused of subtlety in its Argentine theme. Both Grable and Miranda are luminous, though Miranda has desperately little screen time, and is not given the scope to do anything more than sing and sashay about the stage. The tokenistic elements of Latin America within this film extend to the portrayal of the 'locals', who are mainly bumbling and foolish. The Quintanas are almost totally westernized (and played by US American actors), with references made to Don Quintana's schooling in Paris. They also speak only English, while the other locals speak in Spanish, at least at times. Again, it is the music and dance sequences which really make this film. The acting and the story are a little thin. The absolute highlight is a cameo performance by the Nicholas Brothers, who perform a joyous and stunning tap dance routine. At the level of costumes, music, and theatrical razzle dazzle, the film is a success. It is a burst of Technicolor light in Hollywood's golden age; a nuanced, intercultural story, it is not.
The post Hollywood's Latin American Fiesta appeared first on Starry-Eyed Travels.]]>
The post A Snow Day in Sheffield appeared first on Starry-Eyed Travels.]]>
What is it about snow that is so magical? I think it's the quiet. Snow falls silently, muffles the noises of city life, and keeps cars from roaring down the roads. The pedestrians out and about were concentrating on placing one foot in front of the other without skidding down the hill. The only sound was the creaking and crunching of the snow beneath my boots.
By the time I reached Weston Park, the snow was increasingly blizzard-like, whipped about by the wind, and covering me head to toe. It was a whiteout, the snow carpeting the landscape. Taking photos was near-impossible; the lens was covered in fat flakes the moment it was exposed to the elements. But it created a lot of fun effects, leading to some abstract, ethereal pictures.
I made my way towards the university, treading carefully until I reached the shelter of the concourse, and yet another moment of snow magic was revealed. From beneath the heavy, concrete bridge, the blizzard was kept at a safe distance, appearing like a snow globe all around me. The Student Union building, with its colour-changing lights and sharp, angular architecture, appeared like a mirage beyond the veil of white.
Down in the centre of Sheffield, the gritters had been out in force, and much of the snow cleared, but the blizzard didn't stop all day, so when I got back home, winding up the hills to Walkley, the snow was as pure and virgin white as it had been that morning, and thicker than ever, piled in high drifts against every post and pillar, engulfing cars and covering footprints as quickly as they had been made.
We Brits are terrible for complaining about the inconvenience of snow and decrying the fact that the country grinds to a halt, clamouring for the gritters to come out. But what's wrong with things slowing down for a day? For not fighting nature, but just enjoying it? Snow in this country is a fleeting thing, and it makes the world a beautiful, magical place while it's here.
The post A Snow Day in Sheffield appeared first on Starry-Eyed Travels.]]>
The post My Year in Travel appeared first on Starry-Eyed Travels.]]>
2014 – it feels as though I've lived three years in this one. It's been a year rich in travel and new experiences; dreams have been realised, wishes come true, discoveries made. I became a freelance writer full-time, I wrote and published my first book, I was chased by a horse in Portugal, and I turned 26 in Tangier. I've called London, Lisbon and Sheffield home, and I've toured swathes of Portugal, Spain and France, as well as taking a brief city break in Berlin. Travel always heightens experiences, lengthens time, allows you to see more, sense more, experience more deeply. 2015 promises more travel to places new, but 2014 is the year I will think of most as o meu ano português – my Portuguese year, and it's one I'll never forget.
I began the year living in Kensal Green, London, where I had been since September 2013. I gave up teaching and turned to writing full time. I sought out cute coffee shops to work in, and explored London's quirky, little neighbourhoods, camera in hand, while wrapped up cozily against the winter winds.
Before upping sticks from London and moving to Portugal for a while, I took a whirlwind city break to Berlin with my best friends. We're working through European cities beginning with 'b' (starting with Budapest last year). We laughed about how uncool we were, preferring coffee and cake stops during gentle sightseeing to the boozy nights out in hipster clubs.
I was deeply in love with Lisbon, as I had been since the first moment I arrived, late at night, trying to find my way to an airbnb homestay in the maze-like streets of Alfama. But the rest of the country was calling, so I took off on a tour of the north, making friends in Coimbra, sipping port in Porto, following in my Dad's footsteps in Viana do Castelo, and crossing the border into Spain at Valenca do Minho.
I made a brief trip back to the UK to spend 3 weeks as a judge for an international English-language competition. I stayed in a sweet little cottage in Box Hill, Surrey, a place made famous by the Olympic cycling – and Jane Austen.
Settled back in Lisbon for a month, I basked in the little joys of my daily routine: my 10th floor flat with a view of the city and the Tagus, the boat trip I took each day to Cais do Sodre, return trips to my favourite spot, Portas do Sol. Peak time in tourist season, it's worth missing in favour of viewpoints further up in Graca, but early morning or evening, when the light is at its most radiant, it's the best place to be. Lisbon felt like home.
It was hard to leave Lisbon, but the temptation of the Alentejo sweetened the deal somewhat. I toured the marble towns – going back in time in sweet, little Estremoz, joining the tourist throngs in famous Evora, and enjoying everyday life in Beja. The high point, in more ways than one, was Marvao, a place I was inanely happy to reach after a hair-raising drive on mountain roads.
After a final fling in the Algarve – a few days of pure holiday with friends in Albufeira – I bade farewell to Portugal and crossed the border into Spain. The bus left at some highly unsociable hour, and I arrived into Seville before dawn. It was worth it to have my first view of this shimmering city at sunrise – I don't think there is any more beautiful hour to see it. After a brief sojourn in Cadiz, where I attempted to tour the city on a bike, with mixed success, I overnighted in surf capital Tarifa, in order to cross continents on my birthday.
Tangier wasn't quite the birthday I was hoping for – food poisoning and a crowded coach ride is not a recipe for success. Still, with its characteristic cyan blue buildings, and its smoky medina of hidden alleways and lost palaces, it was certainly the hit of Morocco I'd been craving.
From Spain, I flew to Nantes, in northern France, where I was met by a transport strike – a true Gallic welcome if ever there was one. Nantes navigated, I sped on to Tours for a few days of 'book research' in the Loire Valley. This research turned out to be a lot of ice-cream eating and wine-drinking in magnificent, historic towns, with weather almost as hot as Seville, and the refreshing Loire river a constant presence.
Paris seemed like a fitting end to my European trip, and standing on the steps of the Sacre Coeur as a crowd gathered to listen to a harpist of exceptional talent, I cried. From the days in January, where I had maps spread out over the kitchen table of my house in London, when this long adventure was nothing more than a collection of pencilled points and scribbled ideas, it seemed incredible that I was there, in Paris, having done it all.
It all ended where it began, with a few days back in London, though I no longer had somewhere to call home there. Then I took a much-needed trip to the village of Downton in the Wiltshire countryside to see my family – somewhere I could still call home.
My Dad had the madcap idea of a family holiday to Anglesey, so we piled into two cars and drove for seven and a half hours through a good portion of England and nearly all of Wales to reach the island. In true British style, it rained a lot, but we still strolled along the beach and paddled in the sea, climbed Snowdon through dense fog, and played a lot of cards.
I found myself in the hallowed halls of University College, Oxford, teaching undergraduate students from Japan. The afternoons were mostly free explore. We went punting on the river (which is harder than it looks – we spent longer disentangling ourselves from the bushes than actually punting), visited the Ashmolean, saw an Agatha Christie play, and went to evensong at Christ Church. Thoroughly cultured, wouldn't you say?!
The main reason for my time in Portugal was to immerse myself in the language and culture before starting a Portuguese Masters degree. So after Oxford, I finally relieved my parents of the boxes which had been taking up their garage space since February, and returned to the city which feels most like home to me – Sheffield.
Living on the edge of the Peak District is a pretty incredible place to be, and when Autumn burnishes the peaks with colour, there is no better time for a countryside ramble. I climbed Mam Tor, the highest peak, rediscovering a sense of adventure I didn't know I'd lost.
I flitted between two capitals, Edinburgh and London, for film festivals and conferences, making sure to soak up the sights and revisit old haunts. In Edinburgh, I paid the obligatory visit to the Meg Canon at the castle (which my Grandma claims is named for her), and couldn't help snapping photos of the sunset from Waverley Bridge.
Happily settled in Sheffield, deep into research, and finding out more about Mexico, Angola and Mozambique, I'm once again planning travels near and far, from my next girly city break early in the year, to a possible reunion with distant friends, and research expeditions which will hopefully take me to Africa.
I am so lucky to have had such a full and happy year, living in different cultures, countries, cities, and languages. Making new friends, taking trips with best friends, spending time with my family, spending time travelling on my own, and ending up doing something I absolutely love and never want to end.
I hope 2014 has been just as magnificent for you. All that remains on this Christmas Eve is for me to wish you Merry Christmas, and a very adventurous, starry-eyed, New Year.
The post My Year in Travel appeared first on Starry-Eyed Travels.]]>
The post Ayotzinapa: The Scandal of Mexico's Disappeared Students appeared first on Starry-Eyed Travels.]]>
On the 26th September 2014, 43 student teachers training at the Ayotzinapa Rural Teachers' College were disappeared in the city of Iguala in Mexico's Guerrero state, after peacefully taking over several buses and protesting to highlight the lack of governmental support for rural schools and education. The students are still missing. But the most surprising fact of this case is the fact that it sparked nationwide protests and international solidarity. Because in Mexico, these disappeared students are far from a rare case.
Between 2006 and 2012, it is has been estimated that 26,000 Mexicans were forcibly disappeared. How do 26,000 people disappear in such a short amount of time? And that is likely to be a significant underestimation, given that numerous states either did not collect or provide data. You would imagine that nationwide kidnappings and presumed mass murders on that scale would be something the international community would pay attention to, or at least there would be national outrage. But both Mexico and the wider world have been turning a blind eye to this vast campaign of terror. It was only in September, with the disappearance of the 43 students, that things began to change.
Almost immediately, protesters took to the streets, and rather than it all blowing over in a few days, as the government expected, the campaign just continued to grow. From outcry in Guerrero, the cause was taken up by social groups all over the country. On placards, posters, and a social media frenzy, one phrase took on the form of a rally cry: #YaMeCansé. It seemed that Mexicans have finally had enough.
But why? What was it about these students which was different to all the other cases of disappeared people? Partly, it was the symbolism of their disappearance: in poignant irony, the students had been collecting money so that they could travel to Mexico City to attend a march commemorating the massacre of students by government forces in Tlatelolco Square in 1968.
Secondly, the students were already mobilised in active protest against the government. The implication of the state in the disappearance of the students has only added fuel to the fire of their fellow students and protesters who managed to escape. Friends and families of the disappeared have begun to organize themselves and build links with other protest groups and social movements.
Thirdly, due to the sustained and well-orchestrated protests, the corruption of the government and the police have been laid bare for the world to see. It was particularly brazen in this case: the mayor of Iguala, Jose Luis Abarca and his wife fled and were quickly accused of ordering the attack. It seems that the mayor's wife was holding a soiree, and she didn't want the atmosphere spoiled by the protests. According to the students who escaped, the police arrived en masse, and attacked the students, killing 6, and injuring many more. They then took the 43 students by force, beating them and throwing them into police vehicles. What happened next remains unclear, but it appears that the students were taken to Cocula, a small town in Guerrero, where they were handed over to the Guerreros Unidos cartel.
The government's response was characteristically slow and unconcerned. President Peña Nieto did not publicly address the crisis until the 6th of October, 11 days after the disappearances, when it became clear that protests were not stopping. The state governor, Angel Aguirre, was quick to blame Abarca, without accepting any responsibility himself. The protestors unleashed their fury, setting fire to municipal buildings and police vehicles.
Police vehicle set on fire at protest demanding government find missing students from #Ayotzinapa College. v @Reuters pic.twitter.com/6wWiXucnpY
— Anarcho Anon (@AnarchoAnon) December 2, 2014
Meanwhile investigators had uncovered a mass grave, apparently containing the bodies of the students, but the protestors demanded that the grave be investigated by a foreign forensics team. The government admitted the bodies were not those of the students. A further eight mass graves have since been uncovered in Guerrero during the investigation, none of them containing the bodies of the students. Which raises a chilling question: If not the students, then who are they? And how many more mass graves might yet be discovered? It would seem that the Mexican government has an awful lot of skeletons spilling out of its closets. It also seems inconceivable in a kidnapping ordered by a city mayor, carried out by the municipal police, that no-one investigating knows where they are.
It was then claimed, after apparent confessions from apprehended Guerreros Unidos members, that the students had been killed, burned, and their remains thrown in the river in Cocula, Peña Nieto again hoping to end the case and get the government's public image back on track. But again, the Argentine forensics team showed that the remains found did not match the DNA of any of the students.
Governor Aguirre eventually gave into public pressure and resigned, but without accepting criticism, or apologising for what happened. The state continued its slow, ineffective investigation, apparently hoping that the fire of public fury would eventually burn itself out. But with international attention firmly on Ayotzinapa, and the students still unaccounted for, the opposite has happened.
RT pcr7_21: RT lucidige: #6DMx Impressive, massive, epic show support for #Ayotzinapa. DF overflooded with prote… pic.twitter.com/sZvaVW2I7I — Noticias Ayotzinapa (@AyotzinapaFeed) December 7, 2014
Ayotzinapa highlights in the clearest, most brutal way possible, the utter complicity between Mexico's drug cartels and the authorities. Peña Nieto can no longer claim that the state is fighting against the cartels and protecting its citizens. We can no longer ignore Mexico's impunity and corruption.
"Vivos se los llevaron, vivos los queremos" – they were taken alive, we want them back alive. It has become the international call for justice for the students of Ayotzinapa. Sadly, it seems unlikely. This week, news has been confirmed about one of the 43, Alexander Mora Venancio, aged 19. Unfortunately, it was the news everyone was dreading. A piece of his bone had been found at a rubbish dump in Cocula and identified as matching his DNA by Argentine and Austrian forensic scientists. The other 42 are yet to be accounted for.
Under the unyielding pressure, dozens of arrests have now been made, including 44 police officers. It remains to be seen whether real justice will be done. The crucial thing is that pressure, both within Mexico and from outside, is maintained on the Mexican government. These students may not be coming back alive, but we can't let them join the 26,000 in the legions of Mexico's anonymous disappeared. There is a sense that Ayotzinapa could be a catalyst for real change in Mexico, and we all owe it to the students, who only wanted the resources to teach in Mexico's most impoverished and disadvantaged regions, to see that change happens. We can't allow another Ayotzinapa.
After the news broke about Alexander Mora Venancio, this message appeared on the college's Facebook page, written in the voice of Alexander:
Compañeros, a todos los que nos han apoyado, soy Alexander Mora Venancio. A través de esta voz les hablo: soy uno de los 43 caídos del día 26 de septiembre en manos del narcogobierno. Hoy 6 de diciembre le confirmaron los peritos argentinos a mi padre que uno de los fragmentos de mis huesos encontrados me corresponden. Me siento orgulloso de ustedes que han levantado mi voz, el coraje y mi espíritu libertario. No dejen a mi padre sólo con mi pesar, para él significo prácticamente todo, la esperanza, el orgullo, su esfuerzo, su trabajo y su dignidad. Te invito que redobles tu lucha. Que mi muerte no sea en vano. Toma la mejor decisión pero no me olvides. Rectifica si es posible pero no perdones. Este es mi mensaje. Hermanos hasta la victoria.
Friends, to all who have been supporting us, I am Alexander Mora Venancio. Through this voice I speak to you: I am one of the 43 who fell on the 26th of September, at the hands of the narco-government. Today, the 6th of December, Argentine specialists confirmed to my father that one of the fragments of bone they found was mine. I feel proud of you who have carried my voice, my courage, and my libertarian spirit. Don't let my father be alone with the weight of my death, I am everything to him, his hope, his pride, his strength, his work, and his dignity. I invite you to redouble your fight. Don't let my death be in vain. Make the right decision, but don't forget me. Rectify things if possible but don't forgive. This is my message. Brothers until victory.
The post Ayotzinapa: The Scandal of Mexico's Disappeared Students appeared first on Starry-Eyed Travels.]]>
The post Thailand Tribulations: Mosquitoes, Monkeys and Motorbikes appeared first on Starry-Eyed Travels.]]>
Last year I spent three weeks in Bangkok and got bitten by mosquitoes seventy times. Somehow, I still didn't get Dengue Fever. It was with some reluctance then that I returned to Bangkok this year. I'd seen the film Final Destination and I knew how these things worked. I was pretty sure that there was a Dengue-riddled mosquito waiting for me at the airport. A mosquito that knew I should have been infected last year and was determined not to let me escape twice. However much I covered up, it would hone in on that tiny part of me that wasn't soaked in DEET. As it turned, hiding from mosquitoes would be the least of my worries.
Motorbike taxis are an everyday part of life for many in Bangkok. Women ride side saddle, often clutching bags of shopping and small children, without a care in the world. So when my friend assured me that it would only be a short trip down a few quiet sois (streets) to a café that would make it all worthwhile, I agreed, albeit with a huge amount of trepidation. My friend, a Bangkok resident, bounded onto his bike with all the enthusiasm of a toddler riding their first tricycle, while I boarded mine with the wariness of a novice clown getting on a unicycle.
Pedestrian movement in Bangkok is very slow sometimes to the point of stopping. It could be the heat, or the perpetually crowded streets, or constantly dodging street vendors and potholes, or trying not to breathe in the possibly noxious air (Which in Bangkok has the unique smell of drains and lemongrass). Whatever the reason, it's not fast paced. In stark contrast, any form of transport from tuk tuk to taxi goes at breakneck speed until reaching a traffic jam. The motorbike taxis proved no exception.
I rode astride the driver, clutching the horizontal handlebar behind me. Zooming through suburban roads with my blood pressure rising at every rev of the engine, I thought that things could not get much worse. That was before we hit the main road. We were at traffic lights with whistles blowing and car fumes bellowing and traffic approaching from every side. It was a carbon monoxide fuelled fiesta but I was not enjoying the party. I spent the five minutes that we waited for the lights to change, wondering if it would be an appropriate time to put my arms around the driver but as I'd been too scared to even say hello I decided that it might seem a little over familiar. I endured the rest of the trip gripping the bar so hard that I thought that I might have to be surgically removed from it when I finally disembarked.
It marked the start of a hectic week in this hybrid metropolis – look up and there are sky scrapers, roof top bars and five star restaurants, look down and there may be rats or wild looking dogs. 7 days of bike rides and boisterous crowds was enough. So we escaped to Ayutthya for some peace and quiet. Ayutthya is the former capital, renowned for its very beautiful temple remains. Indeed, two tuk tuk trips later, we had seen the ruins of many Wats, as well as a troupe of elephants dancing to a techno version of Bring Me to Life by Evanesence. Nobody can accuse Thailand of not being eclectic in its range of tourist attractions.
We'd heard many people talk of Lop buri and its monkeys while we were in Ayutthya. Since it was a two-hour train ride away, we decided to go for the day. Like National Rail travel in Britain, the train was packed, with no guarantee of a seat. Unlike British rail travel, we paid a return fare equivalent to 27p.
Lop buri is a small town and as in small towns across the globe there isn't always a lot for the young to do. Imagine any small town in England and substitute its kids on street corners with monkeys and that's Lop buri. These monkeys were no cute Coco Pops advert; more a simian version of Shameless. Young Macaws were loitering everywhere. Some chose an aerial view from the electric cables but the majority meandered along the streets as though they were hanging out with their mates on a regular Saturday afternoon.
I hadn't had a rabies injection and there was a dark inkling in the back of my mind that the spurned Dengue mosquito might have teamed up with other creatures to ensure I met my fate. Monkeys are cute until they bite you. That mightn't be a line you'd find in a David Attenborough documentary but it's a fact.
We lasted an hour before we retreated to a café, sharing a trestle table with a large and – thankfully – human family. When the food came the smell of its spices was so pungent that everyone round the table started to sneeze. It was with some apprehension that I took the first mouthful – but it was delicious. This was the Thailand I could enjoy.
Travelling in Thailand may be fraught with inconveniences, and quite probably, a variety of deadly creatures out for revenge, but it certainly stimulates every sense. Delinquent monkeys and Dengue mosquitoes notwithstanding, Thailand is a country worth all the tribulations.
The post Thailand Tribulations: Mosquitoes, Monkeys and Motorbikes appeared first on Starry-Eyed Travels.]]>
The post In Scotland, I'm Home: Musings on Edinburgh appeared first on Starry-Eyed Travels.]]>
Edinburgh comes into view, and my heart leaps. The smile, which has been inanely on my face since Dunbar, grows even wider. I'm back where I belong. This gothic beauty, with all her refinement and finesse, may not be as cool and as edgy as Glasgow, but I adore her.
I walk out of the station with the confidence and pride of someone who lives there. I swish past the tourists with their cameras and dazed expressions, feeling smug, until I catch sight of the Old Town skyline, the domes, the spires, the turrets of the castle, and I can't help but whip out my phone to snap a picture. I have this very picture already, I remind myself, taken on a previous trip. But the light is different today. I'm sure I could live in Edinburgh for the rest of my life and still be unable to resist taking pictures from outside Waverley Station.
Up into the Old Town, and onto the Royal Mile. The bagpipe player is playing the Flower of Scotland, competing with tinny strains of Scotland the Brave coming from the souvenir shop next door. It's twee and predictable, but the sight of the bagpipes still makes me happy; the sound slightly less so. The Royal Mile is packed with tartan and tablet, whisky and haggis. The shops scream offers on Highland Tweed and Lambswool scarves. Two Japanese girls ask the way to the Harry Potter café, cameras poised, eyes shining with anticipation.
Yes, it's touristy, but it has to be in the running for one of the most beautiful streets on earth. It's disarmingly photogenic; this long, straight road of cobbles polished to a sheen by constant footfall, the tall, elegant buildings on either side, leading towards the sea, a window of blue on the horizon. Then there's the hidden side of the Royal Mile, the wee lanes tucked between the buildings, each one concealing a different surprise. Down one, a steep flight of steps back to Princes Street. Down another, a Museum of Literature. Try a few, and you're sure to end up in some old, creaking, beer-stained pub, with a couple of old boys who appear to be permanent fixtures, speaking an unintelligible dialect of drunk broad Scots at 2 in the afternoon.
This is a city built on secret worlds, on underground passages, houses upon houses in a vertiginous, maze-like fashion, with enough hidden warrens to last a lifetime. Ghosts hang over Greyfriar's Kirkyard and whisper through the oldest of the buildings. It's a city built around a huge, craggy rock, which provides the foundations for its medieval castle. It's a city built on legends and stories.
Then there's the defiant, independent spirit of Edinburgh. Chain stores are by and large confined to Princes Street and Lothian Road, though even there, arthouse cinemas and family-run restaurants are well represented. But the Old Town is almost free of big business. There's the odd chain coffee shop, but they are few and far between, and so discreet it's as if they're ashamed of being there.
Wend your way down Grassmarket, and it's an indie dream. Old bookshops selling ancient maps and battered second-hand tomes stand beside trendy art galleries and vintage fashion boutiques. In other cities, this would be hipster. But in Edinburgh, this is the norm. Even beyond the quirky Old Town streets, independent businesses reign supreme, giving Edinburgh a truly local character. It's about as far as you can get from being a clone of anywhere.
I slip into a café at the bottom of Grassmarket. There's a low, wide windowsill stacked with cushions, so I curl up there, sipping my coffee and gazing out at the comings and goings of the city. There's a gentle Scottish burr around me, which has the power to soothe my soul completely.
Returning to Waverley, the Old Town is silhouetted against a sinking sun. It casts an orange glow through a dusky blue sky, imbuing the city with even more enchantment. Soon the castle will be illuminated in fairy-tale colours, and the night-time magic of Edinburgh will begin.
I'm heading to Africa in Motion, a festival of African Cinema. Just one of the unique events this city puts on in its packed annual calendar. The festival alone is worth the trip up, but honestly, I don't even need an excuse to come here. Every so often, I just need my Edinburgh fix. Though my birth certificate says I'm English, it's Scottish blood that runs in my veins. When I'm in Scotland, I'm home.
The post In Scotland, I'm Home: Musings on Edinburgh appeared first on Starry-Eyed Travels.]]>


text: Mexican architect Pedro Ramirez Vazquez dies on Dec 31, 1969 @ 7:33 PM Mexico City, Apr 17 (EFE).- Pedro Ramirez Vazquez, one of Mexico's most distinguished architects, has died from pneumonia, the National Culture and Arts Council, or Conaculta, said. He was 94. The architect, who designed Mexico City's iconic Azteca Stadium and the new Basilica of Guadalupe, died on Tuesday, the Conaculta said. Ramirez Vazquez was the "most prolific Mexican architect and urban planner in national life in the 20th century," the Conaculta said. The architect died on his 94th birthday, the cultural agency said in a statement. Pedro Ramirez Vazquez was "one of the greats" of Mexican culture, Conaculta president Rafael Tovar said. Ramirez Vazquez was born in Mexico City on April 16, 1919, and studied architecture at the National Autonomous University of Mexico, or UNAM, and later became the first president of the Autonomous Metropolitan University.


text:
3 guys 1 bed. That's hot!ReplyCancel
What is a queef?ReplyCancel
I didn't know guys had slumber parties.ReplyCancel
+1 @KimbaReplyCancel
@Bruce. Is that the dish with eggs and cheese, like a souffle?ReplyCancel
Bruce, is Kylie still hanging around this putz?ReplyCancel
3 guys, 1 cup.ReplyCancel
The eventual police chase when Bieby goes fugitive.ReplyCancel
Hold out for the big numbers, neighbor! It might make up for all the speeding, tagging, obnoxious parties, and spit that he has inflicted on you and everyone else in your neighborhood. Don't see that $$$ as a bribe… It is a symbol. A symbol of the cost of screwing with the homeowners' association…. Get it for everyone on the block!ReplyCancel
Couldn't agree more, @Kimba. It's sad how a nice looking kid with actual talent at one point just pisses it away and doesn't even realize it. In his mind, his entire situation is completely different- when reality hits (and it will – HARD), it's going to be ugly!ReplyCancel
No Scott, we've talked about her staying away from this bad news bear but I think she's still chummy with the Smith boy.ReplyCancel
I'm still scrambling my brain as to how egging a house results in 20k damage.
That must be one hard boiled prosecutor to pursue this.
Odds are they will let him off over easy.
(Apologies for the lame jokes, though I am cracking myself up. C'mon, I'm bacon. I go with eggs. I'm prepared to testify about the unfortunate demise of my friends.)ReplyCancel
Khloe, didn't you call Justin a little queef last week? I didn't know what it meant. Wait I still dont!ReplyCancel
Is it too early to love? That pic with your comment… Could go viral…:-D thanks for the whooping cackle, the cat needs more exercise!ReplyCancel
@Bacon, I don't speak from personal experience but since this happened, I've seen a lot of personal accounts from people that the damage an egging leaves is surprisingly bad. Depending on the surface and how much time elapses before a cleaning is attempting, it sounds like that shit can congeal and take a considerable amount of effort to remove (i.e., not just a rinse-off). When it does come off, it takes with it part of the surface, necessitating repair.ReplyCancel
Kokes! I can't believe you just went there!! Ha haReplyCancel
Thanks Khloe. Wow, that's certainly not what I was expecting.ReplyCancel
That's what I was wondering GPS, if it stripped the paint or something. But isn't the story that the homeowner was there and caught him on film? I would think a power wash first thing next morning would take away from potential damage? It's not like the owners were away for weeks or something.
Still, if the entire place needs to be repainted..
Just sounds like 20k is excessive. He's a little turd though so I really don't care.ReplyCancel
That picture is pricelessReplyCancel
These homes are over a million bucks, the homeowner is going to have to hire a professional company to scrape and sand the eggshells and egg sploof off and repaint. How big is this guys house? It doesn't sound too much to me.
If only you hadn't spit on him beib….
Oh my god Bruce…… You can be so embarrassing. It's about a girl's vagina.ReplyCancel
Hey you guys, is mom paying you to be here? People keep saying that we are getting paid to chat here and keep our names in the paper but I'm not getting any money. Are you?ReplyCancel
My ass makes money, honey! Rob, you know that mom isn't giving you any more money until you lose weight. She told me she's paying you per poundReplyCancel
You guys are seriously embarrassing me.ReplyCancel
So is mom paying you for every trashy selfie you take on Instagram?
My selfies are funding your sock line! #loser #growup #FattyFatty2by4CantFitThroughTheKitchenDoorReplyCancel
Your selfies fund your ego, Kim. My sock line is successful on it's own and I have Kylie and Kendall modeling them for me.
I wasn't even talking to you, you evil, ugly little troll. You can stay out of it.ReplyCancel
Rob! How dare you talk to your sister that way!! That's it, I'm telling momReplyCancel
I'm not talking to mom right now. She is trying to send me to fat camp and I won't go.ReplyCancel
It's some fancy, and expensive, wood finish done by hand that, apparently, takes many hours to do. Labor is not cheap.ReplyCancel
They live in an extremely nice neighborhood. I would think the neighbor really doesn't need the money, and seems willing to stand up on this one. If I had enough money to live in Calabasas, I would revel in the opportunity to stick it to the Beibs. INSUFFERABLE.ReplyCancel
The house's exterior is a special kind of stucco called Venetian Plaster.
The entire wall that little pile of shit egged must be stripped down to the wire lath & redone otherwise, it won't match the rest of the wall.
Thus, a minimum of $20,000
I hate Justin Bieber almost as much as I hate Brody Jenner and his stupid famewhore family. At least Justin is Canadian.ReplyCancel
I can't get over this pic, forget the eggs. I never knew any guys who shared a bed like this….weird….ReplyCancel
This is the same neighbor in whose eye Bieber spit. He's not settling. He's out for revenge.ReplyCancel
Crossing fingers that the FAA pulls through in pursuing a case after his disgusting behavior on his flight to the Super Bowl. Sorry, don't know how to make it clicky.
"His antics on the chartered jet could be his biggest legal problem yet. In the United States, interference with a flight crew member through intimidation is a felony punishable by up to 20 years in prison. There's no word yet on whether officials plan to pursue a case."
LOL @Kristen
One of my friends told me a story about her ex and the time he went to Vegas with one of his guy friends and another platonic girl friend. Anyway the next day the platonic girl friend walked in from the next room to find the ex and his guy friend naked in bed together. They "fell asleep" like that. My friend was like, "Is he gay?" And I said "UM ABSOLUTELY."
My boyfriend wouldn't be caught dead sleeping in bed with one of his guy friends!! And to take a pic of it?! WTFReplyCancel
The only reason I'd like to see this pursued, even if he only gets a conviction for a misdemeanor, which is probably all he'll get, it puts it ON his record. He has a conviction. With one, the second one is easier. The more convictions he has on record, the harder it will be for him to skate on future convictions AND the harder it will be for him to slip in and out of the US. It may not STOP him from entering the country, but it sure can be a pain in his ass, and for that alone, it's worth the effort to get it on record and not let him skate with a payout. I hate this little turd, and want to see someone inconvenience him for a long time to come, on a regular basis.ReplyCancel
Forget about the egging, this picture sure speaks a thousand words!!ReplyCancel