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2010 Australian Diecast of the Year
Posted 18 December 2010 - 03:44 AM
Its common knowledge that democracy is a double-edged sword. Power being in the hands of the majority. Well thats a good thing, isnt it? The thing is, how do we know the majority dont have any ulterior motives, or if theyre biased?
Ignoring a majority can have dire consequences. This is what we learn from basic politics. But in some cases, using literal democracy is not ideal. Take a look at this years MTV Music Awards. Despite a seemingly united international hatred, Justin Bieber (an 11 year old from Canada used to sell sexual themes to the most vulnerable members of society) won the award for 2010s best new artist. So why did this happen? Have the Canadians finally made the inevitable step towards ruling the planet?
Nope. At least not yet. Biebers success can be put down to MTVs bizarre choice of using a voting system over any form of sanity. The result was a musical award ceremony with no credibility, essentially a popularity contest. And of course popularity doesnt (come never) mean the best in the world of today. Certainly most of todays youths havent got a clue musically. Lady Gaga. Enough said.
Back in May, I approached Matthew White, Editor of The Diecast Magazine, pitching him an idea that, I hoped, would be the idea to trump all ideas. He was very enthusiastic about it, and off we went. For several months, we bounced ideas, paragraphs and photos off one another, and all was well. That was until White questioned the judging system I had employed, highlighting that he wanted it to be a reader-based judging system. I tried to compromise by suggesting a fusion of both, but White wouldnt budge. White chose to cut all contact with me, without telling me that it was over (sounds like a line from The Notebook). In my ignorance, I plundered on for the next 2 and a half months, waiting for that email which would ultimately never come. I eventually found out when one of my fellow judges bought the magazine in question in mid-September, to find our article absent, instead finding Whites take on the idea, and a vague mention of the guy who got the ball rolling (name spelt wrongly no less). A man sob, a stern email, and a few rants later, here we are. Id like to introduce you to the inaugural Australian Diecast of the Year awards for 2010, an article by the collector, for the collector.
Its clear what the problem is with Whites interpretation of the idea, and its something that I want to make plain. If youre lost regarding the magazine, White had gone with a simple readers vote system, where each reader gets to vote for one model, from each major scale, as well as a bunch of other types of model, strangely including aeroplanes. Theres many things Id like to mention, but the main point is that theres a high chance of a lot of Australian collectors voting for the car they like, over the car they think is the best. All you need to do is visit V8central, or go to a V8 Supercar race meeting to know this. Blue and Red are deeply engrained in this hobby, as they are with all other related products of the ATCC series and V8 Supercar series. To give readers the vote, is essentially to ask who the model car world in Australia and New Zealand likes more; Holden or Ford. Sure there will be a large group of people who will submit honest answers (the members of these forums for example are pretty damn switched on), but their efforts are likely to be negated by the votes of the slanted that dont see it any other way.
Enough of this public procrastination though. Back to proceedings. So, ADOTY. Whats that?
The point of ADOTY is a simple one; to find which of 2010s many Australian diecast releases is the definitive best. Its a subjective and sometimes touchy subject online, but hopefully this wont be a worry. Not at least until the hate mail and death threats start coming in.
Of course, there were many things to consider when thinking up this project, primarily where the line was going to be drawn in the sand. We obviously cant analyse everything out there.
It was decided that the 1:18 scale was the way to do. Tempted we were to delve into 1:43, but considering the limitations, and how 1:18 is the scale with the fiercest and most intriguing level of competition, we decided not to (though there are more brands fighting it out in 1:43, including Trax and the ever improving Models56). But thats as specific as well be going. No other limits or groupings. From here on in, its going to be an all on all bar brawl, bloody noses and severed limbs bound to ensue.
As hinted at previously, it wont just be me either. Those who think Im a know-nothing prick of a person, rejoice! For there will actually be 4 judges. Just like X Factor. Yikes. Good start.
Judge number one is Matthew Harwood. Hes married, but dont be fooled. Hes also a model car collector. Harwoods collection spans several decades of Holden history, including a number of Bathurst Winners. He also frequents a trio of Australian diecast forums.
The second of our judges is Codie Findlater. Codies been collecting for donkeys years, and has many themes covered including a near-complete Peter Brock collection, still being after one of those illusive 1972 Bathurst Winners. Hes our youngest judge, so cut him some slack. And as I write this, hes also about to nudge the 5k post mark on the Biante forum.
Andrew Wood is our third and easily most credible judge. Andrew is in the enviable position of working at Frontline Hobbies, and thus hes able to finger some of the nicest diecast available on a daily basis. His collection aint bad either, being hugely diverse, cars ranging from Exotics to F1 racers to motorbikes. We all truly hate Andrew, who also has the cheek to barrage us all with hundreds of photos of himself wrapped around every V8 Supercar grid-girl imaginable.
And finally theres me. I have abnormally large earlobes, am straddling the edge of morbid obesity, and own a couple of model cars. Yeah. Awesome.
Between the 4 of us, weve bought every major release of the year.
The review process was broken up into 3 parts. Firstly, each judge will nominate eight cars, from which a top eight will be calculated on aggregate. This aggregate list will then be forwarded back to the judges, for them to order from 8th to 1st. From this, a top eight will be ordered. Then finally, the top three models will be ordered once again by the judges. They will go through a comprehensive analysis, a review of every aspect; from engines to interiors, hinges to wheels. There will be no token Brock cars, Moffat cars or V8 Supercars. And there certainly wont be any Justin Bieber cars. Each model will deserve its spot, and if all goes well, our verdict will be a goody.
As they say in the classics, its on like Donkey Kong.
The elimination process wasnt the death race previously mapped out. In reality, the issue wasnt about whom to put in the top 8, but more so what order to have the top 8 in.
The big clashing opinions related, in the most part, to the 1972 Peter Brock LJ Torana XU-1 GTR and the 1974 Brock and Brian Sampson LH Torana, both produced by Classic Carlectables. The argument was that both models, according to some of the panel, were similar in form, to the point of essentially being interchangeable. The opposing opinion though was that this was far from the case; that both models have their own strengths and weaknesses, while also not acting as reciprocals of the other. Sadly, we never came to any real conclusion on this one. The L34 wasnt released in time for this review as hoped, which forced a late shake-up in the order, and a subsequent ring-in making a surprise appearance.
What was also quite interesting from the outset, were certain members actually specifying cars that they definitely didnt want to see make the cut. Strangely vindicating it was to see various members of the panel shoot down particular models in unison and agreement. Sort of like when you say something bad about a member of the family to your spouse, with a slight tingle of hesitation, hoping that they would turn around and echo your remarks about alcoholic step-uncle George and how he always takes the congo-line antics too far.
Not that I have a spouse, or an Uncle George, but thats beside the point.
One such car, or tier of cars if you like, was the entire squadron of Classics Holden Commodores from the early 1980s. This included the 1985 Brock/David Oxton Mobil VK and the 1982 Brock/Larry Perkins VH. These cars have few fans, and seeing them up close in the flesh, you can see why (though I will concede than the 1982 VH Commodore looks drop-dead gorgeous in full war-paint). Put briefly, charging $240 a piece, retail, is daylight robbery. The sole areas which may constitute such a price may include the engine detail, and perhaps the paint and decal quality. But thats it. Theyre plasticy, vaguely detailed, inaccurately shaped, and as such are anything but good value for money.
A car which was also reasonably disliked, securing only the one top 8 vote (which happened to be an 8th place vote anyway) was Biantes 1993 John Bowe Amaroo Park Ford Falcon EB. This car has also been marred with issues from day 1 of its release, many buyers (and in some cases prospective buyers, who ended up taking their money elsewhere) cited the poor materials, poor plastics and poor mold shape as irritating issues. I myself was lined up to buy an EB of my own this year, only to find that the three which held my interest (the 1994 Bathurst Winner, the 1993 Championship Winner and one of Allan Moffats awesome Banana Boats) would all be delayed into 2011. The former most car had been in the pipeline for a Bathurst release, and so to go back on a word like that tells me that Biante are working on the mould of the EB. Or maybe Im just letting my hopes get in the way of the inner-realist.
On a related note, it was a surprise when we realised how lacklustre and small the years Ford 1:18 scale contingent was. It only really became apparent when we started conducting votes, where only a few Falcons featured. Theres people out there who believe that there has always been a bias towards Holden diecast over Ford diecast from the Australian 1:18 scale producers, and with stats like these, its not hard to imagine that being the case.
Apart from the aforementioned cars, there were a handful of others which were pondered about. A lot of them being Biante re-hashings of old molds, such as the Geoghegan/Muir Army Reserve Falcon XD, and the trio of VR/VS Commodores, all of which missed the due date, but in reality were probably going to miss out on enough votes anyway. Likewise, cars from CC which missed 2010 by a few weeks, such as their superb Hemi Orange Valiant Charger, were bypassed in regards to fairness. I guess theres always next year.
But anyway, its all been said and done. Weve gone through all the processes, dotted the is, crossed the ts, and weve come to 8 separate verdicts.
So grab some munchies, a cold one, settle down, and enjoy as we reveal 8 best diecasts of 2010.
Until recently, anyone could walk into the local book store, locate the nearest dictionary, flick through the A section, find average, and see in the definition a picture of Biantes 1:18 Ford Falcon XB Coupe.
Bad it was, with the ride-height straight from a Range Rover, and a face only a mother could love.
But Biante decided in 2010 to include their cobweb-ridden XB mold in their chain of aging mold revivals (including the VS/R Commodores and the Army Reserve Falcon, all of which missed the release marker). What elevates this model beyond the also rans however is a retooled mould that weve all been calling out for.
Its always pleasant when companies admit some fault in their own work, and its even more pleasant when they release fixed versions. Biante have been on the ball in this regard, and as youll see later on in the review, this wasnt their only 2010 fixer-upper. But patience is a virtue, and youll have to exercise that.
Apart from a revised mold and lowered height, the new-gen XB Falcon is a case of what you see is what you get. No smoke, mirrors and gimmicky tinsel, its just a pure plain Jane diecast. Smack $215 on the table, and Im yours. The detail as a whole is good enough, but not much more. The interior is fully carpeted, features some well-scaled wooden accents on the rim of the steering wheel, and looks pretty nice with white upholstery on the black of the carpet and dashboard. Refreshing to see something two-tone in the midst of todays models which, especially if you look at most modern 1:18 German luxo-barges and sports cars, tend to go with the single, dark colour, be it black or some sort of garish brown or tan.
Peek into the engine and youll realise the true age of this model. The refurbished hinges and myriad of warning stickers, though theyre nice, cant mask a plasticy and aged effort. Some of the wiring looks like it would be better suited for a 1:12 or 1:10 scale model its that heavy. And, lets face it, a 1:18 scale engine is always going to be on the back foot when its only really picked out in two colours, blue and black in the XBs case. A bit of variety in wire colouring mightve helped the cause.
If you then use that fine-tooth comb on the interior, youll find that its not quite that impressive either. The seats look a bit like dismantled fridges, with their square angled edges and slab sided-ness (the white doesnt help in this regard either), while the centre console compartment looks like a safe. And while the wheels look more than adequate, the brakes behind them look at least 6 years out of date. The visible attachment stubs on the reflectors under the front bumper and on the rear fenders are also a minor no-no.
Despite all this, the Falcon XB just makes its way into the top 8, beating out a bunch of racers. And it can thank the revised mould and supreme fit and finish for its successes. An extremely solid effort from Biante and their buddies at AUTOart. No frills motoring, but on a diecast level.
As many of you will know, Im not a massive fan of diecast remakes. Why go off and cash in on a particular name or race when instead you could get to work on a new mold or model not yet released?
But, I will admit, that theres indeed a time and a place for remakes, primarily when the original doesnt cut the 2010 mustard. Enter the Bathurst Winning Classic Carlectables 1972 Holden LJ Torana XU-1 GTR.
Of course, the condoning of a remake has a catch. That being that it should be equal or better than the original in all major areas, and majorly fail in none. And therein lays the problem and relegation to 7th equal for the terrier Torana.
Before we have a big old sook though, time to focus on the positives.
For the best part, Classics have ab-so-lute-ly nailed the model. Open the doors and youre greeted with a very nicely polished interior, finished with the typical sheet of lush carpet. Its great to finally see Classics adopt fabric seatbelts (cough...welcome to AUTOart circa 2006), hopefully this is something which will leak to their other releases in the future. Question marks have arisen over the scaling of both the glove-box handle and the rocket-launcher-esqe steering column, claims which Google tells me I should agree with. Otherwise though, its a solid and clean effort inside.
The real star of the show however is the stunning engine. Theres so much to like about it. The differentiation between the black braided lines and similarly sized hoses is awesome. As are the stunning, complicated and accurate bonnet hinges. The best feature of the engine though are the fantastic little carburettors, with their detailed photo-etched filters (the perforation is out of scale, but whos counting) and shiny chrome outer casing. One little gripe to note of in the engine-bay is the heaviness of the blue wiring. Whether the black braided lines are periodically correct has also been asked. But thats something only the elite could tell you. In the grand scheme of it all, this is clutching at straws.
The application of the decals and paint is also one of the Toranas strong points, and is one of the main areas where it trounces the humble 10 year old Biante effort. Though the finish is probably superior, the real gloating point is the accuracy of the decals. Trainspotters will notice that the Classics 28C Torrie has some different decals featuring on it, which are all accurate according to several grainy black and white shots. The placing of said decals is top shelf as well.
But now (and you cant say I didnt warn you), its time for the sook explaining the downfall of what coulda shoulda woulda been.
When a set of stills of this model were revealed on the Classics homepage, a number of us found massive fault in one major area of huge importance. That area, of course, is the mold.
There are simply too many errors in accuracy to brush off. Flared arches instead of subtle lips, a roofline which lacks squareness towards the rear window, a base windowline that doesnt taper upwards, arguably oversized lights, and a nose which decidedly lacks accurate angle are only a handful of issues that exist with the XU-1 mold.
Whats more, basic principles come into it. After the online reveal, forum members cited all the issues they found with the mould, Classics essentially laughed off the criticism, as if to imply that they knew more than we did. They should, but in this case, they certainly did not. And that is all reflected in the forum thread if you can hunt it down.
I suppose at the end of the day, if youre after a 1972 Bathurst Winner, this is way better value for money than the wobbly old Biante. But it is a satisfying remake? Well thats up to you. A 7th equal is all this high-price Torana could muster.
Over the years, there have been several dozen diecast models on the Aussie collectors whinge list. Cars which simply have to be made. Threads online about these models tend to breed like bunnies, and more often than not the companies we plead to cave in. Chris Roche recently made slip that they will make some Dick Johnson Mustangs (to what capacity, with what mold, and when, is unknown), while in the other side of the fence, Classic Carlectables are releasing the first long awaited Channel 9 Kevin Bartlett Camaro next year.
This year finally saw one of these models released. And that model (or thread of models) was Biantes rock solid chain of Holden Sandman HX and HZ utes and vans. Despite the fanfare, they werent the commercial success one would have bet on, but dont take that as an indicator of them being an average model. They are, in fact, quite good. And while all of them were great models, it was the Mandarin Red HX Panelvan which impressed us most.
What the Sandman represents is one of the poles of Biantes collective manufacturer pie. It is an AUTOart casting, and thus has a lot of consistencies with the older set of Biante diecasts, such as their Monaros and Toranas, both very well known for being reliable and tough as nails, while also being admittedly light on serious detailing. The Sandman, though a 2010 release, is no different.
Details, while cleanly executed, wont excite the senses. All the standard fare features, including carpeted flooring, detail painted engine, and an accurate dashboard. Some elements could have been improved, such as the chunky over-scaled steering wheel or the casting of the engine block (which appears to be a loose copy/paste version of the engine in the L34 Toranas. You wouldve hoped there would be a little bit of improvement in the detail), but these are only problems that are found when youre looking for such things.
But by the same token, tiny little new-age improvements (on what may otherwise look like a 5 year old model) can be found too. Check out the spring-loaded bonnet hinges, accurate to the 1:1 and functional (a problem in the older AUTOart Holdens was that the bonnets would never stay open). The safety stickers in the engine bay. The two-piece rear door is well produced too, with an opening hatch and separate opening tailgate, the hatch opening on doglegs and struts, while the tailgate opens on fantastic small hinges with tethers holding it up. These are great little details which could have easily been bypassed. They couldve just wacked doglegs all over it and called it a day, but instead they made the effort to make this solid diecast a reasonably detailed one as well. A difficult task considering how inherently spartan the stock standard Aussie ute is.
Ultimately though, the Sandman doesnt push the envelope hard enough to really challenge the diecasts higher up the order. However, it is still a model that does the job, and does it well.
Certain model car brands in todays market have their own individual tendencies and trends. They follow their own believed path to what makes a good model car, likewise they disregard pieces of technology and detail they feel doesnt belong, or isnt viable, on their product. But, occasionally, we do see a brand make a big change in its line-up. In its processes, in its product priorities. One may want to cite the Peter Brock Paddock Basher, but I think Ill cite the Group C Mazda RX7 as Biantes turning point.
While mold, stance, paint and lights all seem to be near perfect, the real sticking point is the sheer detail of the thing.
This model features some of the most painstaking minute details that have ever been included in any Australian diecast. The interior looks very true to scale, with its very obviously Japanese styling, mixed in with the racing elements, such as the box of gauges on the dashboard, slanted to face the driver. Crack open the rear window and youre welcomed by an array of mechanisms, wires and tubes. What has become really apparent though in this new Biante is the variety of different textures and materials used to detail areas such as these. A more careful eye reveals some shadow-chrome painting, some actual chrome, some transparent piping, and impressively, two bolted pieces of plastic, modelled to look like brushed aluminium. Considering how low-key the boot is in comparison with other similar newer models, Biante have put in a lot of time and effort.
And the praise continues when we get to the engine, without a doubt the best aspect of this model. Once again, there is a huge wealth of materials. The famous rotor is picked out in a colour between a flat silver and a shadow-chrome, and looks great with its complex shape and outer mouldings. We can also see a massive orange pipe used to get air to cool the engine, leading out to the frontal air intake. The plumbing is impressive too, all wires leading to various sources, some flowing through and underneath the firewall. The single issue I have with the engine are the hinges. Theyre very small, to the point of not being noticeable. But when closed, they do show quite a bonnet gap on the leading edge of the bonnet. This is made particularly obvious when one applies the Peter Stuyvesant decals, and has to cut the decals around the massive gap.
As we close the bonnet and cast our eyes downwards, we notice the brilliant looking wheels. The blanking on the front wheels is a work of art. As well as the clean paint/decal work, and the fantastic chrome nuts and bolts in the middle, Biante have modelled the veins behind the blanking. Im tempted to just have at them with a small chisel! Looking behind the wheel reveals that the original rim is underneath, so they might just be glued on. It would be brilliant if they were detachable. The rear wheels also hold their own; being very cleanly cast chrome and gold pieces. Part of me doubts whether the real wheels had purely chrome rims, but then again, part of me doesnt care, when the 1:18 scale result looks so sweet.
All this praise, and yet this model doesnt make the podium? Well, as with a lot of Aussie diecasts, theres one niggly little flaw on the RX7, and Im not gonna dress it up. This car is built badly.
It looked oh so good in the box! Then as soon as I lay my first finger on it, a convergence of squeaks, rattles and screams secreted from the diecast, whistled past my ears, blowing my hair awry. It was a bit like when Shia LaBeouf goes to grab the key thing in Transformers 2, only for it to turn to dust. Maybe not quite to the same extent, but its somewhat comparable. Picking up the model and moving it around the cabinet is done with the same level of intensity as moving a highly rare Chinese Ming vase filled to the brim with molten lava. And when you put it down, you also realise that the axles arent the most rigid either. But kudos to Biante though in citing this issue on their forum, and rectifying it for future 1:18 scale releases outside of the wankel realm, a claim which has so far proven to be credible.
There are also other issues with this diecast in terms of its quality. The great interior I mentioned before is somewhat marred by an odd set of plastic moulding lines on the dash. The decals could also do with a bit of work, as the outlines used to ensure straight edges, particularly on the blue skirt that goes around the base of the car, are quite bulky and obvious.
Which all sort of refers back to the initial point about this model representing a turning point for Biante. While the detail is magnificent, the finish of the model isnt up to the high standards of models past. Sit this model next to the Sandman featured earlier, and literally feel the difference. Its like holding a stone in one hand, versus a pint of porridge in the other. This RX7 isnt an isolated case either. Arguably, fragility has been a very present theme in any of Biantes new moulds. Progress in detail is nice, but it cant simply be a substitute for strength. It is for this reason that the Mazda RX7 is a mere 5th on the ladder.
Before we dive into the nitty gritty of Biantes Ford Falcon FG V8 Supercar, a quick explanation is necessary.
It was decided between the judges (and by that, I mean I said it, and the rest of them sort of smiled and nodded) that we would have a preliminary vote for which Biante V8 Supercar the majority thought was the best, and vote for that one alone when we got to the top 8 choices. It wasnt a very clean process I admit, one judge in particular who shall not be named (jokes, it was Harwood) actually stood up for the BF Falcon, that was until he was met with the ultimate I told you so; an entire forums hatred. The majority ruled in the end though that the FG was the best of Biantes V8 Supercars. The reason we did this was to break apart a dynamic trio of models which are all as good as each other for essentially the same reasons, porting similar types of details and processes, made at the same time, priced at the same price (not for long though as some people will know), similar levels of R&D, similar paint, and so on. To have the three of them packing out the top 8 was not an option, so two were chopped. The FG was chosen simply on the grounds being the best medium. Passable decals and build quality, not to mention a superior mould compared with the plain awful BF, and superior interior compared with the VE Commodore. Consider it like picking the most suitable Porsche 911 out of the swathes of different varieties produced. Consider then that none of us will ever be in a position to actually know what that feels like. But back on topic.
Collectors havent been too friendly to Biante regarding their V8 Supercars in the most recent past, the most recent load of which have been marred with inexcusable decal faults and paint issues. The confusing thing is that you only need to go back a few months before you find other Biante V8 Supercars which don tampo decals. As someone who shakes their fist at the industry without knowing half the problems, maybe Im not the best person to make a call, but I cant see why the change has been made. Especially considering that Biante CEO Chris Roche stated, in the face of consumer complaints, that tampo printing is actually cheaper than waterslide printing, and that the issue as a whole was/is more centred around getting these models done for particular monuments in the V8 Supercar calendar. Im grazing on this issue because it is the most apparent flaw with the Biante Ford Falcon FG, and part of the rationale behind knocking its votes downwards. In Harwoods words, the Biante FG has incredible levels of detail and accuracy previously not seen on a 1:18 V8 supercar...[but its] let down by poor decal quality.
Pretty true really. Some will have caught my FG comparison earlier in the year between Classics and Biantes offerings. And the list of factors favouring the Biante ended up being enormous, even if the car was a bit scratchy in the outer decals. What hurls the FG over the line is its very accurately crafted mould (the plastic bumpers are annoying, but its apparent that theyre here to stay), the low production runs, and the incredible interior and chassis detail. Some of the intricacies such as the Navman GPS in the James Courtney FGs are fantastic, and are bordering on being an unprecedented level of interior accuracy in an Aussie racer. Other details such as the heat-resistant foil on the chassis put international big-boys in this price bracket to shame, and are what youd only expect to see on a CMC or an Exoto diecast.
Which really makes it a shame that these models were executed so dismally. As important as detail is, you simply cannot neglect any of the exterior factors. They are what we see when admiring our models in the cabinet, and, especially in the case of racers, they are the main way we recall them. I remember the Green Eyed Monster because of the livery, and how it somehow turned the AU Falcon into a Cinderella, what I dont remember is which 6 logos were on the passenger side of the dashboard.
Biante should be very proud of their V8 Supercars from this year, but they should remember what the customers priorities are. What the main fundamental needs are. The Biante FG gets 90% of the external stuff near spot-on, but its just those decals which hold it short of being one of the truly great models of the last 5 years. And this is what also punches the Biante FG Falcon off the podium.
This is a review produced for some Australian forums, but I thought I'd share it here too.
Part 2, the Grand Finale, will be posted tomorrow at the same time.
Kind regards,
Posted 18 December 2010 - 06:17 AM
My Collection | Latest addition: 1/18 GT Spirit LB Performance BMW M4
Posted 19 December 2010 - 12:49 AM
Collection | Shoots
Latest: 1:1 1999 Nissan Skyline BNR34 GT-R V-Spec
Posted 19 December 2010 - 03:54 AM
After weeks of umming and ahhing, dozens upon dozens of emails, sifting through hundreds of photos, and a handful of online slap-fights, our top 3 Grand Finalists can be revealed.
The instant it hit the floor of the 2008 Melbourne Motor Show floor, the Holden Coupe 60 concept car was going to be made in diecast form. It was a certainty. The forums were buzzing and members were frothing at the bung at the notion of this shimmering Goddess being released, fuelled by a lot of hype created by the inexplicable comparisons between it and the Holden Efigy. And when Classics did release it, their Coupe 60 became the it car, where seemingly everyone was buying one.
Some people try and make money off Australian models. Sometimes its quite predictable as to what model will fall like a rock in collectability, but occasionally, a total smokey ends up increasing in value. In 2010 the smokey was the Classics 1963 Holden EH, which was being sold by some at prices well over its recommended retail after its release.
And the last finalist, the Biante 1986 Holden VK ETCC Commodore. After Biante lost the Official Peter Brock license, they were resilient in releasing their immediately planned Brock models. Some believe they knew Classics were going to be doing the 1986 Bathurst entry, which is why this car was released instead, but few doubt that the lesser known ETCC Commodore will be a healthier seller than the upcoming Bathurst version.
Now that we have our three specimens waiting in the wings, its time for a rundown of how the process will work, and how we will find the 2010 ADOTY.
Those who are familiar with my reviews may find themselves at home, but for those unfamiliar, heres an explanation. The review will be divided into segments, each describing in detail the pros and cons of each model in those respective areas. The judges on the panel will rate each model out of 5 for each area, and put simply, the car with the most points at the end of the day will be crowned the 2010 ADOTY.
Weve ended up with 3 completely different cars; an old favourite, an extreme concept, and a Group A classic. But its not only by class that these models are differentiated from one another, but the context in which they were made also can be compared and contrasted. No more is this apparent than in our opening segment; Mold and Stance, where the context of each mold differs across the board.
Lets start with the 1986 Biante VK Commodore. To truly appreciate this mold, we have to go back to late 2007, and when the 1986 Biante Bathurst Winner was released.
Many had been waiting for this model for aeons, and rightly so considering its one of Bathursts most popular winning driver combos (at least true for the lead, Allan Grice). But when the model was released, people were stunned not by the great detail it had, or the stunning wheels, or the superb quality control, but by the pug-nosed ugliness of the mold. The car looked like it had driven headlong into a bus. What emphasised the problem was that it was a Group A diecast, so there was no massive wide-body kit to distract you, or to shift the perspective shape of the mould. Likewise the Classics model of the same winner suffers the same fate. Unsurprisingly, Biantes 1986 Bathurst winner slumped in sales, and many are still available at cheap prices.
Back to the middle of this year though, and when this model was announced. Biante, upon announcing both this model, and its ETCC chum, the Allan Grice/Graeme Baily Chickadee version, told us that they admit that there was fault in the molds of their initial VK Commodores, and that subsequently the noses of these new Commodores would be retooled.
And there in the title image is the result of said retool. The photo shows how much pointier the new Commodore is compared with the old one, and in my view, the mold of the new model now looks near perfect. And as well as the retool, Biante also lowered the VK mold so that it sits on its tyres (much like last years 1987 Bathurst Winner release), which was also an issue on the original Biante VK Commodore. If you have to cite a negative, some models have the odd problem with door gaps, and misc hinge issues (the drivers door on my example has a little bit of sag, but all you need to do is push it in that tiny bit more). Nothing major at all though.
Now to the Classics EH Holden.
In the recent past, Classics have been slammed for some of their older molds, specifically their Holden ones. But their EH is absolutely stunning to look at. Sure, it may not be the prettiest car, but its supremely replicated by Classics. In the EHs case, it has probably been a mold that has been toiled over by desk jockeys for months, much like the awful looking Torana LJ of theirs. Unlike the Torana though, it actually looks highly accurate.
Whats more, its all very well put together. To this day, I havent heard of anyone complaining about ill-fitting doors, or broken wheels, and theres certainly no problem with mine. All the doors shut cleanly. The door gaps are all both consistent and miniscule. All the external fittings are fitted very tightly and accurately. It is extraordinarily hard to fault.
And finally, the Classics Holden Coupe 60.
The Coupe 60 would have been 10 times easier for Classics to make than either of our other finalists, as it is made from a CAD drawing (Computer Aided Design Drawing), from Holden themselves. Occasionally though, a CAD drawing can be wrong (as Classics learnt the hard way at the end of last year), and also, since these drawings are often the dimensions and angles of the concept car, there can be proportion issues when its scaled downwards to 1:18th. Perfect dimensions of the real deal, shrunken down, arent always going to deliver the right result. Im not smart enough to put the reasoning into words, so you may have to (gasp) take my word for it.
This said, the Classics 1:18 Coupe 60 looks just like the 1:1. Its a stunning looking mold. All the lines are extremely well replicated, as is the carbon fibre skirting. Some may not like the plasticness of the skirting, but then again, whats the alternative? Using genuine carbon fibre perhaps? I think Id pass.
And so after the four of us looked at the molds of all these models, the score at the end of it was no surprise. Each model, despite each choosing a different route, scored a perfect 5 from all of us. But even though we all gave full marks, we each also had a favourite. Matty Harwood would rate the Coupe 60 a 6 if he could, while Andrew classed the EH mold as Definitely the best of the top 3. Both me and Codie leaned towards the Biante Commodore. Theyre all stunning though. Few would deny that these are three of the most accurate, best looking molds in recent Aussie history.
And now we shall look at what often is meant to compliment the mold of the diecast model, and that is the paint and decals.
The Classics Coupe 60s paint-job is one which requires a reasonably open mind, and a bit of consideration when you try to rate it out of 5. Its a hard thing to do. Public opinion on the matter seems to reflect this, some worshipping Classics effort, others calling it unacceptable.
What we must all remember is that its not simple chrome. Despite it looking a little bit similar to the Vodafone chrome weve become accustom to on the Triple8 V8 Supercars, its quite a lot different. The paint-scheme is actually a layered process, consisting of many layers of black and chrome paints. Classics could have very easily just slapped the Vodafone chrome on the model, and only half of the market would give a toss. But no, they went whole hog, and for that alone they deserve a pat on the back.
The result is obviously mixed. The colour match appears to be spot on (and Id love to hear how it was accomplished too. I cant even begin to fathom how on earth one would replicated a multi-layer paint-job in 1:18 scale, let alone one as complicated as this one). Inexplicably, a lot of the Coupe 60s released had their own paint issues, ranging from your standard paint chips, to dirt in the paint. Heres where the Coupe 60s point sadly falters. Standard chips could be considered acceptable in this special case (Peter Hughes has said that even the 1:1 concept car has blemishes in the paint), but dirt in the paint? I suppose perhaps this could have occurred in the layering process? We may never know. But regardless, the Coupe 60 looses points because of it, but still gets the respectable score of 16.5 out of a possible 20 for its troubles.
And what of the opposition. Well the 1986 Moffat/Brock VK Commodore scores an impressive 18.5 for its paint and decals. Two of our judges gave it a perfect score, while myself and one other cited some minor quality control issues, often relating to our specific examples. Mine has a few iffy areas, including the red base on the front bumper, and the little tips of blue on the bonnet being a bit rough. Its still hardly anything to cry about. This is a quality paint-job. The decals are tampo, and are stunning. Accurately applied, and brilliant to look at. One problem, also found with the RX7 featured earlier, are the lines of decal used to straighten the edges of the painted areas (once again, like the red on the front bumper), which are quite bulky and thick. But, little things.
But the car which scored highest, with a haul of 19 points (Codes marked it down a whole point because the engines the wrong colour, whereas the rest of us argued that thats an engine matter, sigh for subjectivity), was the Classic Carlectables Holden EH. Externally (sorry Codie, ya sod), the EH is impossible to fault. The Saltbrush Green, though not a colour I particularly fancy, looks beautiful on the EH. Its very well applied, with no uneven patches, and no orange peel. No faults, scratches, dirt, or any other weirdo things make an appearance either. Its simply excellent, clean work from the folk at Classics.
Time now to take a look at the external features of each model, and rate them accordingly. The external features title includes wheels, brakes, lights, and any other little bits and pieces Biante and Classics chose to replicate. Lets get into it.
Opinions were a bit mixed with both the Coupe 60 and the VK Commodore. We all cited a number of valid problems with the exterior bits and bobs on both models. The plasticy feel of the Coupe 60 hurt it in the points quite badly, though as mentioned before, I doubt Classics had a lot of choice. And while the Biante VK is a heavy brute of a thing, some of the individual pieces arent as well-executed as they could be. The door handles on some examples are crooked, and the attachment stubs on the headlights are quite visible on the flanks. Both models also display some very average brake packages. The discs in particular on both are simply cheap looking plastic discs. Its a bit of a mixed-message in the Biantes case, since other recent releases such as their V8 Supercars, have been fitted with fantastic looking photo-etched discs.
Both models though do have some fantastic little features. The lights all round on the Coupe 60 are works of art, especially the headlights, featuring a stunning tinge of blue. The Coupe 60 wheels too look absolutely brilliant, not to mention the unique 1-off tyres and their very cool tred-pattern. The VK also has some tricks of its own, including an opening fuel cap, boot springs, and a range of minor parts in front of the windscreen including air-nozzle for the air-jack.
But once again, its the Classics EH which snatches the minor victory, getting 18.5 out of 20. And while the lights and the wheels are pretty good, its the chrome-work that had us all stunned. The bumpers, the grill, and all the fins and louvers are next to perfect. Andrew called it Easily the best Chrome finishing on an external body I have seen so far, and Id agree. Its all done so crisply and cleanly. What I love most, if I had to pinpoint, is the Holden badge on the front above the grill. It looks incredibly well done.
That said, theres a couple of little points which spoil a perfect score. The Holden decal on the bootlid of my example is a little bit crooked, and some of the external plastic parts couldve been done better, such as the heavy-handed 179 badge, and the wing mirror, which has a very thick mold-line on its backing.
The boot and chassis area tends to be overlooked quite often by both Aussie brands, though occasionally you will see them really pack a lot of effort into them. Ultimately though, none of these cars really do this area to the best of their abilities.
Firstly, forget about the Coupe 60 in this area. The low-key chassis is essentially a bit slab of black plastic. Its accurate I know, but you cant really reward it. The boot area too is sterile. The nice black carpet and roll-cage are negated by some hideous dogleg hinges. It looks like Classics realised that the doglegs were a bit ugly, and tried to mask them with a couple of flash looking hydraulic arms. Sorry Classics, but thats not how it works.
Both the VK and EH offer a bit more value in the boot and chassis area, both scoring a high 18 points each.
The uniquely contoured chassis of the EH is very well replicated with all parts present, including the leaf springs, diff-housing, camshaft and so on. The components under the engine are the standout. The boot of the EH though is very baron. Not much to really mention. The fuel pipes peeking through the hole in the side of the boot are the only real thing to speak of.
The VK on the other hand is the complete opposite. The chassis is very plasticy. The exhaust pipes, exhaust tip, camshaft, and diff are all picked out in the dreariest looking type of plastic. The air-vents and hosing at the front (for cooling the brakes) represent a lone highlight. The boot detail though is top-notch. The Pulsar Power Pack and all the relevant warning notices look fantastic underneath the left fuel filler. The complicated componentry behind the back seat look fantastic too. Braided lines absolutely everywhere. Accurate looking dogleg hinges. Its a great boot.
So with one area to go, the points are very tight. The Classic Carlectables EH Holden currently leads at 75.5 points, a mere 2 points ahead of the Biante Holden VK Commodore, while the Holden Coupe 60 is trailing at 69.5 points out of the possible 80.
Now to the final showdown.
The Classics Coupe 60 wins the engine and interior battle, with an impressive 19 points. Two of the four judges though marked the Coupe 60 down a half point each because of materials-related gripes. I personally knocked a half off because of the use of dogleg hinges in the engine, and the very poor seatbelts, which are made out of very grey looking plastic strips, similar to the ones youd find in any modern Classics V8 Supercar. Some of the plastics used in general also dont quite seem to be 100%, such as a lot of the engine. Its an issue I see a lot of in a lot of Classics engine-bays (except for their V8 Supercar ones). Theres a tendency to use low-key, one-tone plastics all over. Biante on the other hand have a tendency to use multiple types of materials at every opportunity (except for in this years woeful EB Falcon) such as chrome and metal, even using a distinct type of metallic silver paint which looks a lot like metal.
But, gripes aside, the interior and engine package in the Coupe 60 is the pick of the bunch. The interior is superb, with the 4 deep bucket seats flocked on the inner from head to toe. The orange heads up display is complimented by the flocked steering wheel, which also has its own cute little photo-etched Holden badge in the centre. Look into the engine, and despite the plastic engine cover obstructing a lot of the detail (such is the case with most modern cars), theres still plenty on show. All sorts of ducts, pipes and components. The engine cover itself is very detailed, featuring photo-etched V8 logos, as well as some safety decals and the Biofuel decal for all the greenies out there.
The engine and interior win for the Coupe 60 rounds out what was predictably going to be a solid campaign. Third was always going to be the result though. The Coupe 60 was dragged down by several key shortcomings, the use of doglegs, and the choice of plastics being only two of these. Its too bad that the Coupe 60 was set to only be a concept car, as it means that this mold is never going to see the light of day again. Which is a real shame as it makes for a great model. The Classic Carlectables Holden Coupe 60 ends up finishing 3rd with a very impressive 88.5 out of 100.
And so now its down to the interiors to find our inaugural ADOTY. And you couldnt ask for two more contrasting bits of detailing to compare and contrast; a rustic old EH versus a Group A Taxi-cab.
The EHs interior is basic, but stunning. The scaling of it all is impossible to fault, and is one of the main points of awesomeness. The window latches, window winders, air-conditioning vents and the radio are all crisply executed, while also being correctly scaled. I find the window latches particularly impressive. The commodious bench seats are produced in a great soft plastic, and are well painted in the clashing shades of green.
Where some points are lost for the EH is in the engine. Its no detail issue, on the contrary the engine is extremely detailed (In Harwoods opinion the most detailed hes ever seen). The myriad of wires and parts is a great sight, only bettered by the stunning hinges and the extremely small safety stickers.
The problem in fact is to do with the accuracy of the engine. The 179 used in the EH Special is well known, and is even named after its red colour. As you can see, the colour of the block in the EH Holden is bordering on brown, and considering how infamous the red engine is, youd think that a mistake like this wouldnt happen. Its a weird and inexcusable error.
And what about the VK?
Well its interior is also stunning. From the flocked Sparco seat, to the fabric Sabelt seatbelts, to the chrome plate in the drivers footwell, to the extremely detailed dashboard, choc full with various tachos and dials. Just like the EH, the interior is a work of art. A problem identified by 2 of the judges with the interior was a sense of plastic-ness not dissimilar to the feeling of the chassis. I personally dont agree with that sentiment as it makes the assumption that the floor-pan shouldve been done in diecast, which would be both unprecedented and astonishing.
The engine though is probably is a bit plasticy. Beyond the chrome lid and perforated mesh of the air filter, the materials are decidedly low-rent. The dogleg hinges couldve also been done to a higher standard. The real ones are far smaller, and mounted closer to the edges. Classic Carlectables did a great job at making these hinges on their 1984 Bathurst Winner, which should be duly noted. Despite that though, the engine-bay of the Biante VK looks fantastic. The wires, braided lines, and the execution of the other parts surrounding the main block in many ways save the VK engine from being ho-hum.
So after all that, the final decision hangs on whats better. The Classics EH interior and engine package, with its brown engine, or the Biante VK and its dull engine plastics. It was a hard call, but we have a winner.
If you told me, when I first thought of this idea at the beginning of the year, that a road car would win the award, I wouldve deemed you crazy and walked off.
But the Classics EH Holden has defied my inner logic of race cars always being inherently more detailed. Andrew summed it up perfectly when he said the above. This was a hard fought battle, and never ever looked anything like a walk-over. All three cars are fabulous models, in every way.
But at the end of the day, the EH is just that little bit better than the 86 ETCC Commodore. Congratulations Classic Carlectables. Youve earned it.
Thanks for reading, and thanks to Codie, Harwood, and Andrew, for your large contributions,
Posted 19 December 2010 - 07:42 AM
Posted 19 December 2010 - 01:47 PM
simondc07, on 19 December 2010 - 07:42 AM, said:
Thanks Simon
The quality control issues with the Coupe 60, as mentioned in the review, were centreed around the very complex paint. I don't remember how many layers of black and chrome are used on the real Holden Coupe 60, but there's a lot. So while on one hand we had to mark down on paint for the errors, we also had to mark up the paint simultaneously for being a perfect match, and because of the fact Classics actually chose to replicate it.
Posted 20 December 2010 - 05:00 AM
#8 Guest_mac47_*
Posted 20 December 2010 - 08:12 AM
I know zero about Australian cars. When I hear "V8 Supercar", I think 458 Italia or Koenigsegg CCX, not Holden. And I suspect that there are a lot of DXers who are similarly ignorant of your subject matter. That probably accounts for the lack of response so far.
Posted 20 December 2010 - 09:46 PM
So yes, even if I can't appreciate the cars you are reviewing, I can certainly appreciate those gorgeous photos.
Posted 20 December 2010 - 10:11 PM
Posted 20 December 2010 - 11:41 PM
simondc07, on 20 December 2010 - 10:11 PM, said:
Here's a couple of personal favourites of mine if there's anyone actually keen on killing half an hour of their time Some of the most pivotal moments in the series over the last 20 years or so.
Bathurst 1995 - One of the nicest guys in the series, Glen Seton, leads the infamous Bathurst 1000 event with less than 10 laps remaining, only for the engine to expire, leaving Larry Perkins and Russell Ingall to win in their Castrol Commodore after getting a puncture on lap 1, and coming back from last, and a lap down (something never seen in the Great Race). The sight of Glen Seton in tears talking to the commentators, and his father Bo Seton keeled over in his chair in the pits make even me get a little bit teary. Seton won the championship twice (1993 and 1997), but never ever won Bathurst. He's regarded as the best driver to never win it, and came very close on multiple occasions. 2010 was his last race in the Bathurst 1000).
Bathurst 2003 - John Bowe has set the benchmark in the top ten qualifying session, knocking out a 2.07.956, iirc a lap record at Bathurst. New Zealander Greg Murphy goes out, and does a record-breaking lap that will go down in Aussie (and Kiwi) history as one of the cleanest, and best laps in the races history. Watching it brings chills down my spin.
Bathurst 2007 - Only the ultimate climax of a stunning final set of laps. There's a whole back-story to what set up the final fight. But the bares bones of it is that all the cars are on slick tyres, in wet conditions, Craig Lowndes leads, Steven Johnson runs second, Murphy and James Courtney rounding out the top 4. Keeping in mind this is a 6.5 hour race, and Dick Johnson Racing hadn't won a race since 2001, this was an absolute nail biter.
Sandown 500 2003 - Skip to around 2.30 to see one of the best David v Goliath finishes in series history. The benchmark team HRT with an ailing car, versus a small Kiwi team with two relative nobodies fighting in a time-certain finish of a 500km race.
Bathurst 1987 - Glen Seton fighting with his Nissan Skyline R31, on slicks and in horrible conditions. Plenty of heart-in-mouth moments.
Bathurst 1983 - Dick Johnson's 1983 qualifying lap. The Falcon sounds STUNNING. Not too stunning when it exits Forest Elbow though..
This is why I collect
Posted 21 December 2010 - 06:25 PM
I'm quite a simple collector in that respect as I just the like bright colours and the flashy wheels.
I so want that ETCC Brock/Moffat car!!!!!!! Give it to me.... I might buy the Brock VL for now.
That car was the raced in the ETCC as a buld up for the SPA 24hr race
the start of the race
Edited by peanut_xtra, 22 December 2010 - 07:17 AM.
Posted 22 December 2010 - 06:10 AM
Posted 22 December 2010 - 09:51 PM
peanut_xtra, on 21 December 2010 - 06:25 PM, said:
That car was the raced in the ETCC as a buld up for the SPA 24hr race
the start of the race
The Brock VL is nearly as good a model So you should buy it if you're that obsessed.
Thanks for the videos too
Posted 23 January 2011 - 03:52 PM
Posted 24 January 2011 - 04:00 PM
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It's the most wonderful time of the year, when the halls are decked and trees are topped. But at the University of Maine, you'll find only snowflakes, snow men and lights.
"I noticed that there is a lack of decorations around campus which kind of is unfortunate because it looks nice. It's the season of greetings and everyone is festive," says Senior, Matthew Tarsetti.
Just this week, wreaths, Christmas trees and Santas adorned the Memorial Union– now they're gone.
"Our trees had gotten taken down I know ATO was having a really nice event to raise food and coats," says Alyson Binette a Sophomore.
Some UMaine staff got an email Monday expressly forbidding Christmas trees, wreaths, Christmas presents, Menorahs or candy canes to be used as decorations in any public areas.
"It's really disappointing, but I feel like it would have been good to benefit the community," says Binette.
The University released a statement saying in part,
"…the university makes every effort to ensure that all members – students, employees, alumni and the public – feel included and welcome on campus. Decorations on the UMaine campus are therefore reflective of the diversity found in our community."
But students say banning all decorations with a religious affiliation doesn't promote diversity.
"Embrace them all in a way that makes everyone feel included, recognized, but at the same time appreciated would be really cool," says Senior, Ryan Walker.
"I think we should celebrate cultures rather than try to hide them," Tarsetti says.
Employees in the student bookstore say they were told not to use the phrase, "Merry Christmas."
"We sit here and we talk about how we're a university that's about welcoming all different types of people, all walks of life, we have all these different groups like the LGBT, we have up the flag for that…why can't we support every religion and hang up decorations for every religion?," says Graduate Student, Meghan Blackford.
Dan Demeritt is the spokesman for the University of Maine system.
He called TV-5 early Thursday morning to say the email is a misrepresentation of school policy and a clarifying one will be sent out Thursday.
Dermeritt says the Christmas spirit is "alive and welcome" at the University of Maine.
Demeritt also forwarded TV-5 an email from Connor Scott, identified as a brother of The Beta Upsilon Chapter of Alpha Tau Omega and University of Maine Board of Trustees Student Representative. It says, "the trees were taken down, as they are every other year, when the philanthropy ended. This year it was this past Sunday, the 7th. This is something that happens every year – though the dates may change a little year to year – and shouldn't be a surprise to the campus."

subset: commoncrawl


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Printable View
Thought this would be about Colt Ford's song...
colt ford-waffle house - YouTube
Leaving is important as mentioned. However, right before I left, I'd discreetly video the "mad house", call Waffle House Inc, and share the video with them. Since the manager is allowing this to go on, I doubt if calling him will help much help, but it probably should be done "for the record".
The deep concern is the patrons behavior and how/why it got like that.
I agree to normally leave. Way too much can go wrong by confronting the morons. A couple of times at sporting events I asked folks to watch their language (My son was 8-10 at the time). Both times it was 2 guys and 2 girls and they were just getting excited. First time was at a Washington Capitols game. I asked the kid next to me if they could just watch the language and he felt bad about it. We actually got along the rest of the game.
Second time was at Boston Celtics games. I swear, if one were to profile you would have thought the 20 somethings (2 guys and 2 girls again) in front of us were gang bangers. Hispanic, tattoos, bling, just everything you could imagine in a rapper gone bad movie LOL. Anyway, same thing. They were just getting excited and I had a feeling they were good kids. They had the same reaction when I talked to them. They were very polite. In fact, you know the t-shirt cannons they use at games? They caught a t-shirt and gave it to my son. So not all 20 somethings are useless.
I must admit that the cost of good seats at sporting event definitly was a factor. I am not walking away from seats 8 rows up in the corner of a hockey game. Plus, you have event security and very little chance of them waiting for you outside.
Way back before getting married and having kids, I was having dinner with some coworkers at a local "sports bar" type restaurant, and some of the people I was with were getting pretty loud and were cussing. When I suggested they keep it down a bit because of the families there too, one person piped up and said "well what do they expect at a place like this?!?". As much as that answer bugged me, that logic has driven many of my choices ever since.
It's not my job to maintain a proper business atmosphere in the Waffle House. I would have said nothing to the boorish crowd making the noise. The place is poorly managed and it isn't my problem. I would however let management know why I was making my exit.Quote:
What upset me was that the mgr. wouldn't say anything to them. He could have went to them, not made a scene and told them to settle down but didn't. My question is, would you have said anything to them ?
There are a few eateries that I avoid specifically because of the atmosphere or the noise inside. I would add the Waffle House to that list. As for confronting an obnoxious crowd....I don't need trouble that I can easily avoid, especially while I'm armed.
Give the manager the opportunity to quiet down the crowd or leave immediately...I'd call 911 and imform them why I left w/o finishing or paying for my meal...was afraid the crowd was getting out of hand...my family's safety comes first.
I also would have left after telling the manager why. Confronting a group of drunks is putting yourself in a bad situation. I'm sure some of our women would have said or wanted us to say something to them if they were with us. They just don't understand how the game changes when you're armed.
Good responses, just a shame mgmt. was so weak.
I'm not a Waffle House fan (I prefer my waffles with syrup but no nicotene), but I remember going through Biloxi after Katrina and the one thing that stuck out was that all the Waffle Houses were still standing, even in neighborhoods where everything else was flattened. I hypothesize that the grease seeps into the bricks and congeals into a substance that's not only waterproof, but also able to withstand sustained Hurricane-force winds.
I havent eaten in one of them in years and all because of this song... there is some cursing (2or 3 words) in it so if this offends you do not open it


text:
OUT NOW! Decibel's Thrash Metal Hall of Fame Special Issue/
That's right, folks, our Collector's Edition Thrash Metal Hall of Fame issue is back from the printers and available—right now—to buy from the Decibel webstore and a select few indie record stores. After hopefully violating innumerate health and safety regulations to print the third of Decibel's gnarly Hall of Fame Collector's Editions in Vic Rattlehead's patented radioactive ink, producing seven Hall of Fame inductees with such concentrated levels of awesome that random acts of stagediving could be declared a danger to national security any minute now, it's time to point your mouse at the Add To Cart button.
We should probably mention what's inside the cover but first let's just admire the work of artist Andrei Bouzikov. Clearly drawing on his experience penning cover art for the likes of Municipal Waste and Skeletonwitch, Andrei's composition of thrasher astride a shark that's devouring a skull that's eating a pizza is fit to be hung in the Louvre. If ever there was a piece of commissioned art ticking all of the boxes at the one time....
Inside, we welcome Prong's Beg to Differ, Anacrusis' Reason and completing the Big Four power-smash Megadeth's Rust in Peace to the hallowed ranks of Decibel's Hall of Fame. All three are exclusive to this issue, and join Slayer's Reign in Blood, Anthrax's Among the Living and Metallica's ...And Justice for All.
There is also the matter of our Top 50 thrash records of all time, and we all heartily respect your right to verbally eviscerate us over our choices. Feel free to go nuclear on the comments section, and make an impassioned case for any future Hall of Fame inductees.
So folks, grab it while the going's good. Chris Dick's Rust in Peace..., er, piece has to be one of the high-water marks in our Hall of Fame series, and it's great to see the most slept-on band of all time Anacrusis get the full-on love they deserve.
Here are three videos to whet your appetite for our new inductees: PRONG "Beg to Differ" http://youtu.be/4x6R99V-iHA
ANACRUSIS "Imprisoned" http://youtu.be/h50SVL10DGA
MEGADETH "Holy Wars... The Punishment Due" http://youtu.be/9d4ui9q7eDM


text:
Braising Recipes
Hearty Stews
11 of 26
Beer-Braised Turkey Tacos
Skinless turkey thighs and drumsticks are packed with flavor; they're also low in fat and high in protein and essential minerals like selenium. Deborah Schneider braises the meat in beer until ultratender, then shreds it for tacos. "It's also fabulous in a sandwich," she says.


text:
Enter into the fascinating world of quilt art with the Pilgrim/Roy collection. With 60 vibrant examples from a collection recognized as one of the world's finest, the exhibition abounds with unique expressions of the quilter's art, chosen with a contemporary eye for color and pattern. Patrons will enjoy an exclusive curatorial presentation before joining the combined reception celebrating the opening of this exciting exhibition.
Monday, March 31, 2014
6:00 - 9:00pm
Guests will be greeted at the Huntington Avenue Entrance
Complimentary valet parking
RSVP by March 24
phone: (617)-369-3211
e-mail: firstname.lastname@example.com
This event is exclusively for Patron Program Members and higher levels.


text:
The Newcastle fly-half, injured against Worcester on Friday, has revealed the extent of his latest crisis in his column in The Times.
He said: "I`ve gone past the stage of saying 'Why me... why does it always happen?' I know some people will start thinking about what that means regarding the autumn international season. I guess it does not augur well but to be honest thoughts of England are miles away."
He added: "I`ve started to come to terms with my situation. I accept the injuries more quickly and rather than wasting mental energy feeling frustrated I`m instead thinking 'What can I do to cut down the rehab time.'"
He added: "The injury is exactly the same as the old knee injury except it`s the right knee this time. It`s a grade two partial medial ligament tear. It took me nine weeks to come back from the last one.
"I heard quite a rigorous pop [when it happened], a noise I recognised from when I`d injured my left knee. When I stood up I had that same loose feeling around the joint so I knew pretty much immediately what had happened.
"I knew I couldn`t play on, I was just keen to get off the field and get it iced."
- More about:
- Fitness
- Health
- Health And Safety
- Hygiene
- Sleep


text:
Lady Gaga, Fergie & More Bare All for "Culo"
Posted Tuesday November 29, 2011 5:46 PM GMT
Promising to heat things up this winter, photographer Raphael Mazzucco has released a new coffee table book about dazzling derrieres titled "Culo."
And there's no shortage of beautiful backsides, as celebrities like Lady Gaga, Stacy "Fergie" Ferguson, Nicole Scherzinger, Sarah McLachlan, Stacy Keibler, Irina Shayk, Alessandra Ambrosio, and Kate Upton have all stripped down for Mazzucco's lens.
Also featured in the pages of "Culo" are super hot models like Leann Tweeden, Bianca Balti, and Edyta Sliwinska.
Throwing his support behind the book, Diddy told press, "Raphael is a true artist. He relies on instinct, capturing a raw, natural sens of beauty through his lens."
Photo Credit: Ralphael Mazzucco
filed under Nicole Scherzinger, Alessandra Ambrosio, Irina Shayk, Kate Upton, Chrissy Teigen, Stacy Keibler, Bianca Balti, Lady Gaga, Fergie


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Saturday, September 18, 2010
On 4:12 AM by Connie Lam 4 comments
..Just a random picture
..but it's a nice picture, isn't it?
..It was raining the whole morning
..And so everyone brought along umbrella
..And left it in the corridor
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About Me
- Connie Lam
- Born in April--Aries. I blog to share.
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My life in year 2012 was like a roller coaster ride. There's ups but most of the time there's downs. I learnt really a lots from al...
Date: 29 December 2013 and 6 October 2014 Balik Pulau, another fascinating town in Penang, is a great place where you can escape from t...
Purrfect Cat Cafe, the first cat cafe in Penang, is located at Muntri Street and situated next to Camera Museum. Although I'm not a cat...
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'93 Degrees of Hella Radness!
At least, a keyboard that gives me the freedom to move around the stage.
1993. The first true web browser, Mosaic, debuts. Boris Yeltsin drowns the last gasp of Soviet communism in cheap vodka. The pop charts are ruled by... uh, the soundtrack of The Bodyguard? OK, '93 wasn't all great. But we're celebrating it anyway, in this Woot-Off, on our blog and forums, and on our Facebook page. HOTT '93: it's all that and a bag of stale chips!


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The 10 Hottest Travel Destinations For Summer 2012
There are plenty of places to go in this world. Here are ten white-hot destinations not to be missed this summer—plus one online destination called Get Away With It, a game show brought to you by JetBlue Getaways. Play to win* up to $250 towards an amazing vacation package. Go play now at www.jetblue.com/getawaywithit.
1. Aruba
Scientifically speaking, there are very few places on the planet that are nicer than Aruba. It's almost always around 82°F, but nice and breezy thanks to trade winds from the Atlantic Ocean. Also, yearly precipitation barely exceeds 16 inches, so there's practically nothing keeping you from the beach.
2. Montego Bay, Jamaica
Montego Bay is the second largest city on the island of Jamaica, but most prefer it as a vacation destination compared to the bustling city life of Kingston. Aside from being a popular cruise destination, Montego Bay has shopping, nightlife, and some of the nicest beaches in the Caribbean, all framed by a beautiful backdrop of low mountains.
3. St. Thomas, Virgin Islands
Because St. Thomas is part of the Virgin Islands, it's actually a territory of the United States, so life there is not too dissimilar from life in the states (aside from the fact that it's an island paradise, that is). The temperature stays at around 86º year round.
4. Cancun, Mexico
Cancun is home to many resorts and amenities to keep visitors from anywhere in the world comfortable. For those of you looking for a little adventure, Cancun is also home to many important archaeological sites and landmarks, such as Chichan Itza and El Castillo at Tulum.
5. Long Beach, California
Los Angeles might be one of the biggest and busiest cities in the world, but if you're looking for a bit of an escape, you can always find your way to Long Beach. Long Beach features the famous Long Beach boardwalk and pier, and is the home of the retired RMS Queen Mary.
6. Bermuda
Don't let the legend of the Bermuda Triangle fool you, Bermuda is actually quite the destination for tourists. With sprawling pink sand beaches, and bright blue waters, it's easy to see why people come, despite the stories. Bermuda is also a popular destination for scuba divers because of the numerous wrecked ships off the coast that are perfect for exploring.
7. Saint Lucia
Another gem of the Caribbean, Saint Lucia is a popular destination when the (tropical weather permits it).The island is home to the Saint Lucian Jazz Festival, and holds a big Carnival celebration every year (except they hold it in July to avoid competing with the Carnival celebrations on neighboring islands, so book your tickets now.)
8. Barbados
Barbados is home to some of the most popular resorts in the world, as well as time-shares, private villas, and even private beaches. The Saint Lawrence Gap is the perfect spot for travelers looking for some nightlife, and the Eastern shore is ideal for surfers.
9. West Palm Beach, Florida
Want to get away, but not too away? West Palm Beach in Florida may be what you're looking for. A bustling Florida metropolis, West Palm Beach has all the malls and museums you'd expect in a modern city, as well as some of the nicest beaches and views in all of America.
10. St. Maarten
St. Maarten has two identities. On the Dutch side of the island you'll find a busy nightlife and several casinos. The French side of the island is home to nude beaches, shopping, and fine dining. If you're looking for a thrill, find your way to Maho Beach, where incoming airliners get within feet of the beach while landing at the main runway at Princess Juliana International Airport.
*Enter for a chance to win. NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. Legal residents of the 50 United States (D.C.) 18 years and older. Ends 7/14/12. To enter and for Official Rules, including odds and prize descriptions, visit www.jetblue.com/getawaywithit. Void where prohibited.


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How my breasts got their 15 minutes of fame
by Another Mother on March 25, 2011
New here?
You'll probably want to hear about how I became an accidental lactivist first. And maybe see some of the media coverage.
Over the next few weeks I'll be talking about what happened after the hoopla. My thoughts on the news coverage, what's happening with the human rights complaint, why people are sending me hate mail for breastfeeding, and more. Check back often.
You could tell by the second question and the last question the journalists asked me, that this was going to be a story about my breasts. And about Charlize Theron's breasts.
After my story was posted by the Canadian Press, my story was covered in hundreds of media outlets from the local paper, to the London Daily Mail to the Sydney Morning Herald. It even made the Samoan media (not bad!). You can see the full list of media coverage here.
But for the most part, the coverage was disappointing. Why? Because the journalists missed the point.
The first question they asked was always "Can you tell me what happened?" Fair enough. If you're new here, you can read the full account here.
It was the second question that set the tone: "Were you being discreet?". (And kudos to Michael Smyth of CKNW radio, for being the only journalist who didn't ask).
Of course that wasn't really the question. "Were you being discreet?" is code for "Could anyone see your breasts, ma'am?", and "Were you behaving like a lady, ma'am?", and not such a jump to "Were you being a whore?".
Some people will read this and wonder what I'm talking about. They'll say I'm exaggerating. They'll argue that the public will want to be assured that I was't behaving "inappropriately", so the journalists had to ask. Because I'm sure you've all seen that, the new mom who gets drunk at the mall, starts talking too loudly, starts dancing, climbs up on a table, takes off her shirt, flashes her breasts and starts (gasp!) breastfeeding. Yeah, I didn't think so. That doesn't really happen. Breastfeeding mothers don't actually flash their breasts to the world. They sit in a comfortable chair, look for a stool to put up their feet, cuddle up with their newborn, look into her big bright eyes, and breastfeed her to sleep. Of course, my chair was not so comfortable and I was interrupted before she got to sleep, but you get the idea.
The lengths someone would have had to go to to see my breasts while breastfeeding most resembles something between an obstacle course and a scene from Mission Impossible. If you can get past the over-sized post-partum t-shirt, and the mandatory jacket, cause those t-shirts ride up, and the small but wily human blocking the view (and this one comes with a built-in alarm), you will still be faced with diaper bag, double stroller, siblings tossing goldfish crackers at you, and shopping bags full of purchases for a family of five. I'll be sitting in a quiet corner, so you'll have to be stealthy, and quiet, and then you'll only be able to approach from the front. And there will likely be other mothers with me running interference.
But it doesn't matter.
The question is a test, a qualifier. It's meant to determine whether or not I'm deserving of public sympathy. Probably, most of the journalists who asked the questions were sympathetic. Probably they just wanted to get across that I'm just a normal person. But it's still insulting.
My human rights were violated, but I have to prove I'm not a whore to get justice or public sympathy? Really? In 2011?
Imagine if the law had been broken and my car had been stolen. Do you think journalists would go out and ask the general public what they thought about women driving in public? Do you think people would say things like "It's ok, as long as it's discreet"? Or would journalists ask if the laws were strong enough? If the penalties were great enough? If enforcement were below standard? Or if there were some social force at work leading to increases in car theft?
"Were you discreet?" goes along with the question "You're not an activist are you?" One "journalist" actually asked if I had staged the whole thing. Umm, no. I don't even know how I could do that, plan to be thrown out of a store for breastfeeding. Probably the person who thinks they can see my breasts can think up a way. But not me.
So I also have to prove I didn't instigate the law breaking myself now. Nice technique there, blame the person whose legal rights have been violated.
Then the journalists would often get a quote from the public and of course, the most common response: "I have no problem with it, as long as it's discreet."
I've already mentioned how unlikely public breastfeeding is to be some sort of carnival sideshow, but even if it were, why ask? Why ask what the general public thinks about public breastfeeding? The law was broken. Why not ask the what they think about the law being broken? Why aren't you asking a lawyer what he thinks? For the record, he thinks "Prohibiting breastfeeding is one of the sillier things that I can think of". Thank you Julius Grey. But the CBC was the only one who asked. Everyone else asked if people thought it was "decent".
And then the last question: "Can we just get a quick photo of you breastfeeding?" Um, no.
I was asked to breastfeed for the 5 o'clock news. The Gazette declined to take my photo at all when I refused to breastfeed for their photographer. The Globe and Mail asked me to stand in front of a perfume ad featuring, what else, Charlize Theron's breasts, after I refused to let them feature mine. And does anyone question the 8 foot high perfume ad featuring women's breasts? Of course not. (Hers are much nicer anyway, and I really shouldn't complain about their choice of body double).
Why so camera shy? Because this isn't a story about my breasts. It's a story about the law, articles 10 and 15 of the Quebec charter of human rights specifically. It's a story about human rights.
How many journalists asked me what I thought about the law? Two. How many asked a lawyer what he thought? One. How many asked a lawmaker? Zero.
As all advocates of feminist politics know most people do not understand sexism or if they do they think it is not a problem. Masses of people think that feminism is always and only about women seeking to be equal to men. And a huge majority of these folks think feminism is anti-male. Their misunderstanding of feminist politics reflects the reality that most folks learn about feminism from patriarchal mass media.
And the law will be the subject of my next blog post. I filed human right complaint and you can hear about it in my next blog post. There's a mailing list in the right hand column, if you want to be alerted.
And don't forget to leave your comments! What do you think of the media coverage? Do you think mothers need to be "discreet"?
6 comments
All this story has made me ultra aware of the public opinion on breastfeeding. I didn't realize before that today, in 2011, people still found disgusting public breastfeeding. I was shocked, really. I read things like : "they should go in washrooms", "it's like peeing in public"… I don't think I've been able to breastfeed in public since. I know it's natural, I know it's against the law to discriminate, but I can't help to think that many persons that see me breastfeeding think that I'm a big pervert, and it saddens me very much. I really don't understand what the fuss is about. I think you're right, the media were really beside the point, and from my point of view, they didn't help the cause at all.
That whole discretion question really bugs the crap out of me. In BC I've been quite lucky that no one has bugged me about my breastfeeding in public. I have never been 'discreet' in the way most people suggest, meaning I have never used a cover and am still breastfeeding my 15 month old, wherever the mood strikes her to eat. That being said, for my own comfort I always find a nice quiet area, with comfy seating to breastfeed because trying to breastfeed a 15 month old in a high traffic area is akin to herding cats. I have always felt confident in my right to breastfeed wherever I want, because I was informed enough to go looking for the laws in my province regarding breastfeeding in public and just for good measure I always carry a copy in my diaper bag. While I have gotten a few weird looks and there was the one woman who said somthing under her breath while walking past me, I've never been confronted by anyone with anything other than support. No one calls me an activist for exercising my right to vote, yet exercising my right to breastfeed in public makes me (or you, or anyone) a lactivist?
I think a number of the media outlets that covered your story tried to get it right but were off the mark, like you said, concentrating on the feelings of people towards breastfeeding (which we already know are unfortunately in the dark ages) versus our legal right to breastfeed our children. Discretion shouldn't even be an issue here!
Wonderful story! If formula had never been invented I wonder if we'd be having this conversation?
I'm sorry that you're having to defend your situation. You've got my support 100%.
It's not about my right to breastfeed (well, a little bit anyway!), but lets see it as my child's right to eat!


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4Jarrett Brown
A Final Look At Bulldogs in The Minors In 2015
A Final Look At Bulldogs in The Minors In 2015
A September Update On Bulldogs in The Minors
A September Update On Bulldogs in The Minors
A July Update On Bulldogs in The Minors In 2015
A July Update On Bulldogs in The Minors In 2015
An Update On Bulldogs in The Minors In 2015
An Update On Bulldogs in The Minors In 2015
Georgia Begins Fall Baseball Practice Sunday
Georgia Begins Fall Baseball Practice Sunday
UGA Career (2012-14): A 22nd round selection of the Seattle Mariners in the 2014 MLB draft and opted to sign. Posted a 1-1 record, 4.54 ERA in 60 appearances including 1 start for the Bulldogs in three season...Tallied 67.1 innings with 72 hits allowed, 38 walks and 38 strikeouts.
2014 (Junior): Went 1-1 with a 6.67 ERA in 19 games including 1 start as team went 26-29-1 and advanced to the SEC Tournament
*Registered 11 strikeouts and 15 walks in 27 innings pitched
*Earned first career victory on March 5 in 26-7 rout of Western Kentucky, tossing 2.2 scoreless innings with two strikeouts
*Pitched three shutout innings against #24 Miss. State on March 15
*Tossed 2.1 scoreless innings in 13-inning tie at #6 LSU on March 23
*Made first career start on April 6 at Missouri and pitched two innings in 4-2 loss
*Pitched 1.1 scoreless innings versus Ga. Tech in front of 21,310 at Turner Field on May 13
2013 (Sophomore): Made a team-high 26 relief appearances going 0-0, 2.89 ERA with 3 Saves as squad went 21-32
*Tallied 28 innings and finished the season in a closing role, going 3-for-3 in save situations
*Went 0-0, 2.84 ERA, 2 Saves in SEC action covering 12 appearances for a total of 12.2 IP
*Collected first career save against #2 Vanderbilt on April 20, going one inning with two strikeouts in a 3-1 victory at Foley Field to snap Commodores 11-game SEC winning streak
*Notched a save in 8-7 road win over Tennessee on May 3 as game ended when UT caught trying to steal home with bases loaded
*Pitched a scoreless inning with two strikeouts for a save in 5-3 road win over College of Charleston on May 8
*Made three appearances with 3.1 innings pitched in helping team win the Georgia Tech series, allowing two earned runs with five strikeouts
*Pitched final inning of combined 17-0 rout of #20 Georgia Tech at Turner Field in front of 18,240 on April 23
*Made two appearances with 2.1 scoreless innings at #8 Kentucky in March
*Career-long two scoreless innings at Clemson on March 26 and in the season-opening series at Georgia Southern
2012 (Freshman):Made 15 relief appearances, going 0-0, 3.65 ERA in 12.1 innings pitched as team went 31-26
*Pitched career-high two scoreless innings in combined shutout of Savannah State on Feb. 28
*Registered career-high three strikeouts in 1.1 innings pitched against E. Tennessee State on May 15
*Allowed just two earned runs in his final 10 appearances of the year, a span of 9.1 innings
High School: A 23rd round pick of Boston Red Sox in the 2011 MLB draft
*A graduate of Salem where he played for Chad Kitchens
*A multi-sport star for the Seminoles, earning letters in baseball, football and basketball
*Ttwo-time All-Region 8-AAAA selection in baseball and as a DB in football
*Went 5-4 with a 2.48 ERA and 96 strikeouts in 53.2 innings as a senior
*Earned 2011 Southeast All-Region First Team honors
*6-3 with 3 saves, a 3.24 ERA and 66 strikeouts in 54 innings as a junior
*Helped the Seminoles to an 18-10 mark and a second place finish in the region and the 2010 Class AAAA state playoffs
*Earned the team's Cy Young Award and named All-County
Personal: Born Dec. 15, 1992
*Son of James and Misty Brown
*Major: Sociology
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Archinect - News 2017-06-29T00:02:06-04:00 http://archinect.com/news/article/33843010/seeing-the-building-for-the-trees Seeing the Building for the Trees Nam Henderson 2012-01-08T23:32:00-05:00 >2012-01-09T22:51:33-05:00
A REVOLUTION in cognitive neuroscience is changing the kinds of experiments that scientists conduct, the kinds of questions economists ask and, increasingly, the ways that architects, landscape architects and urban designers shape our built environment. This revolution reveals that thought is less transparent to the thinker than it appears and that the mind is less rational than we believe and more associative than we know.

 Architecture critic, Sarah Williams Goldhagen wrote a brief piece exploring the use of embodied metaphors in contemporary architecture. Looking at recent works by Junya Ishigami, Jürgen Mayer H., Zaha Hadid and Sanaa for instance, Goldhagen notes that the use of metaphors that allude to trees, river-like space or a habitable mountain-scape, is on the rise. While the possibilities of the ongoing revolution in our understanding of human cognition and their potential for shaping the design of our built environment are unknown she believes that the employment of such metaphors in such projects "point toward how the built environment could — and should — be radically reconceptualized around the fundamental workings of the human mind."


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Peter Jackson
Ian McKellen
Martin Freeman
Cate Blanchett
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So the pacing was fine, but what about the 48 FPS you ask? Again, I went in expecting the worst, but I have to say I was blown away. The best way to explain 48 FPS (frames per second if you didn't know) is as follows: if you've bought one of the newest brands of TVs over the past year, a Quattron for example, then you've experienced the overly defined, camcorder/soap opera 'look'. I'll admit it takes some getting used to, but I've grown to like it. The 3D 48 FPS takes that technology and throws it into overdrive with a smoother, much more colorfully-vivid transition that makes you feel like you're actually there. Seriously. When they were being chased under the mountain by all those goblins, it felt as though they could leap off the screen at any time. I highly recommend you see it like this, but sadly, if you haven't had the opportunity to 'get used' to this technology and are hitting it for the first time, you'll no doubt be a little bothered by it at first.
The next issue is the acting and or actors involved. The returning cast, led by the always awesome Ian McKellen, were a real treat. For years, continuations of films and TV shows have been plagued by new faces playing the original characters, and sure, ten years isn't that long of a gap, but I've seen it happen and it sucks. Not so here (for the most part) as Gandalf, Elrond, Galadriel, Saruman and Gollum are played the by same actors who all look fantastic (Cate Blanchett was looking especially delicious). Hell, we even get to see Ian Holm (old Bilbo) and Elijah Wood (Frodo) for a little at the beginning. This added tremendous flavor for me as a fan of the series. I particularly loved watching Christopher Lee (can you believe he's ninety years old) acting all innocent like he has no idea what's going on in Murkwood--priceless. I enjoyed Martin Freeman's Bilbo (especially his scene with Gollum) and the dwarves weren't nearly as annoying as I thought they would be, Thorin in particular was a cool as hell leader.
THE HOBBIT: AN UNEXPECTED JOURNEY falls short by comparison to the original trilogy in only one department. The tone. I remember trying to read THE HOBBIT when I was in grade nine and after one page put it down thinking it sounded too childish. The movie isn't that bad, but at no point did I ever feel anyone was in mortal danger and considering some of the things they had to endure, I should have. This is only a minor complaint, as I'm not sure how this story ends or who dies (if anyone), but aside from that, the scenery was breathtaking (especially Rivendell, the dwarven city and the goblin cavern), the makeup and effects were stellar, the story was fun and the action scenes were epic. There isn't much to complain about here as far as I'm concerned, and I can't wait to see the next one. PS: It would've been nice to actually see Smaug.
Video Blogs: The real gem of these special features comes from two hours of video blogs�in case you missed them online�which cover every detail you could possibly want as a fan of the film and the series. A lot of time, effort and most of all, love, was put into these two fantastic hours and I highly recommend you sit down and enjoy them.
Previews: There are six different trailers for the feature film (loved that), some video game trailers as well as a DVD and Digital Copy of the film.


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The Future Of Learning In Organizations
Futurist Ross Dawson questions what lies ahead for the Learning & Development department.
Ross Dawson, futurist and strategy advisor, considered the question 'What is the future of the Learning & Development department?' on his blog, following a keynote speech at a CADRE seminar.
He poses the possibility that the L&D department might not exist in years to come, as knowledge and learning should be the responsibility of every member of an organization. Rather than one single department, learning should be fully integrated and central to strategy. He raised the idea that small, dedicated L&D teams could focus more on making useful connections, aiding the development of the organization.
Dawson concluded:
Though I really think that it is better that the L&D department does not exist. Its current leaders and practitioners will have a critical role in the organization of the future, just not under that old name, loaded with too much baggage from the past.
Trends in the Living Networks: "What is the future of the Learning & Development department?"


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|Topic Review (Newest First)
Re: Pearson 303 Stuffing Box Flax Size?
Ended up going with prop speed for the prop coating, others in the yard highly recommended it. I'll see in the fall but it is a 4 step process so not for the un-handy crowd.
Re: Pearson 303 Stuffing Box Flax Size?
Thank you. That is a good idea to check the other pieces. I went to the store and 3/16 looks smaller so I purchased the 1/4 as it was the closest match. I will see if I can fit three rings in side and if not I'll go with the 3/16.
Any suggestion on what to coat the prop with since I had barnacles last year?
Much obliged
Re: Pearson 303 Stuffing Box Flax Size?
The packing size is determined by the outer diameter of the shaft and the inner diameter of the stuffing nut. Without knowing these dimensions it is a guessing game.
Chances are though that 3/16" or 1/4" packing will work for you.
We have a 1" od shaft and our stuffing box takes 3/16" packing (NOT 1/4" which is too tight).
You should be able to get 3 (or more) rings of packing into the gland before tightening it.
While you are working on this area of your boat you might also check the cutless bearing & shaft for wear. Also check the shaft log hose to see if it needs replacing.
Hope you get in by June 1st.
Pearson 303 Stuffing Box Flax Size?
Since Sandy destroyed our Marina and it still isn't ready I've been doing many projects this spring. After re-bedding all the deck hardware (Thank you Mainsail) with Butyl Tape I've take the stuffing box apart and removed the Flax. Does anyone know what size it is and how much is needed? Looks likes it was one stand of flax in the fitting. Is that right or is more needed? It was dripping 60 times a second when running and could not be tightened further so it did need changing.
The engine is 2GMF 13hp. I do not know the shaft size, but I will be going to the boat to remove the prop and and replace the sacrificial zinc.
Thanks in advance. i hope to have Free Will in the water by June 1st since the Yacht club launch is now available.
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