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Anna Kendrick Gets Goofy on "Extra"
Just days before her latest movie "End of Watch" hits theaters, Anna Kendrick headed over to The Grove for an appearance on 'Extra' in Los Angeles, California on Monday (September 17).
Sporting a few loose curls, the "Up in the Air" actress looked darling in a retro-looking green and white polka-dot dress and immediately took a phone call right after the interview.
Anna is sure to be in the spotlight over the next few months promoting several upcoming movies including " The Company You Keep," " Pitch Perfect," and her September 21st film "End of Watch."
The 27-year-old is joined by Jake Gyllenhaal in "End of Watch" which follows two young officers who marked for death after a routine traffic stop where they confiscate money and firearms from members of a notorious cartel.


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Father: Ebenezer Payson
Mother: Sarah Seaver
Marriage 1 Abigail Pierpont b: ABT 1740 in Roxbury, Suffolk, Massachusetts
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subset: commoncrawl


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Not so with Juliet, who comes across as a very different kind of character in the novel.
I said to him, "You know the best thing would be if Juliet forgets all these guys and just ends up with Ben."
When her nurse is describing Romeo's rival to Juliet, she says, "An eagle, madam, Hath not so green, so quick, so fair an eye."
Juliet, Nakedby Nick Hornby A new novel of classic Hornby themes: music, fame, and relationships.
In the first scene in Romeo and Juliet, in which we meet the nurse (and Juliet), Lady Capulet asks how old Juliet is.
Like my father, he was a widower: he had one child, the almost infant Juliet, who was left under my father's guardianship.
If you were in love, Romeo and Juliet was proper reading material.
The young ladies were taunting one another; Juliet in frantic passion; Cherry in sarcastic mockery.
Juliet, in great distress, consults the Friar who married her to Romeo.
The friar was at hand to release Juliet from her tomb the very instant after the fatal phial had been emptied.
fem. proper name, from Italian Giulietta, diminutive of Giulia "Julia" (see Julia). Cf. French Juliette. Juliet cap (1904) was felt to resemble a type worn in stage productions of "Romeo and Juliet."
A Parisian fancy which is finding little favor here, is the Juliet cap. It is a net of beads or of meshed cord jewelled or beaded at the intersections. Clustered bunches of blossoms and foliage are set at each side of the cap, above the ears. ["Fabrics, Fancy-Goods & Notions," trade publication, New York, January 1904]


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Sherry A. Byrd » Portfolio
>>> drag images here to add <<< Your Viewing Queue (empty) <<< click to open >>>
Sherry A. Byrd
ARTIST STATEMENT What makes a great M-provisational quilt? I believe a person has to have a great imagination and a "try this to see what will happen" attitude . Also the employing of miscellaneous materials,left-over scraps, a spontaneity in the... » read more


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[ in English | по-русски ]
The programme is available here.
The workshop will be held in room TEO-H1 1.417 of the HSL-fakultetet at UiT The Arctic University of Norway in Tromsø, Norway.
To register for the workshop please fill out this form.
The purpose of the First International Workshop on Computational Linguistics for Uralic Languages is to bring together researchers working on computational approaches to working with these languages. We accept papers and tutorial proposals working on the following languages: Finnish, Hungarian, Estonian, Võro, the Sámi languages, Komi (Zyrian, Permyak), Mordvin (Erzya, Moksha), Mari (Hill, Meadow), Udmurt, Nenets (Tundra, Forest), Enets, Nganasan, Selkup, Mansi, Khanty, Veps, Karelian (Olonets), Karelian, Ingrian (Izhorian), Votic, Livonian, Ludic, and other related languages.
All Uralic languages exhibit rich morphological structure, which makes processing them challenging for state-of-the-art computational linguistic approaches, the majority also suffer from a lack of resources and many are endangered.
Research papers should be original, substantial and unpublished research, that can describe work-in-progress systems, frameworks, standards and evaluation schemes. Demos and tutorials will present systems and standards towards the goal of interoperability and unification of different projects, applications and research groups . Appropriate topics include (but are not limited to):
To maximise the possibility of reproducibility, replication and reuse, we particularly encourage submissions which present free/open-source language resources and make use of free/open-source software.
One of the aims of this gathering is to avoid unnecessary duplicated work in field of Uralistics by establishing connections and interoperability standards between researchers and research groups working at different sites. We have also identified a serious lack of gold standards and evaluation metrics for all Uralic languages including those with national support, any work towards better resources in these fields will be greatly appreciated. To further these goals we propose to start discussions on forming an ACL special interest group (or similar) on Uralistics at the event.
Language of submission: Submissions should be made in English or Russian with an optional abstract in Finnish.
Submission format: There are multiple submission types: research papers and demonstrations and tutorials. Research papers should be up to 10 pages in length excluding references, the descriptions for demonstrations and tutorials up to 5 pages. Submissions should be formatted using LaTeX default article style with b5paper option. Citations should be managed with bibtex and e.g., unsrt bibliography style. Linguistic glosses should follow Leipzig glossing rules and use expex LaTeX package (make sure to update expex regularly as it is developed actively). Preferred LaTeX version is XeLaTeX and therefore you should use UTF-8 encoded Unicode in your sources rather than TeX encoded characters where possible. You will find the workshop template here. Submissions can be made here using the EasyChair conference management system.
Publication venue: Proceedings of the workshop will be published open-access in Munin, the institutional repository of UiT Norgga árktalaš universitehta. Authors of outstanding papers will be invited by the editorial board of the Northern European Journal of Language Technology to submit their work to be published, subject to further extension and review, in a special issue of the NEJLT on language technology for the Uralic languages.
Conflicts of interest: The reviewing process will not be anonymous, authors should state in their submission all conflicts of interest with programme committee. The members of programme committee are expected to state their conflicts of interest during review bidding. If the programme committee finds themselves unable to review some of the submissions, external reviewers may be used.
Double submission: To maximise the impact of work in the field of computational linguistics for the Uralic languages we are open to the possibility of double submission, or submission of work which has been partially published elsewhere. Any double submission should however be reported to the programme committee at the time of submission. In the advent of double acceptance the authors should choose in which venue to publish.
Participants from outside the Schengen area may require a visa to visit Norway. If you require an invitation letter confirming your participation, please get in contact with the organising committee.
A small number of travel stipends will be available for authors of accepted papers. After submitting your paper please contact the organising committee to request consideration.
We encourage participants to book hotel rooms early as mid-January is peak time in Tromsø. Hotels maybe found through your preferred online hotel price comparison site. If you have any questions about accommodation, please feel free to contact the organisers.
Any questions should be directed to the organising committee on email@example.com.
Photograph credits: Tromsø kommune, Pablo Alejandro Araujo Granda, Claudia Regina


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Sandra Fowler
A Winter Day - Poem by Sandra Fowler
I think you know that this is winter day.
This time last year woodsmoke blew us away.
Frost wrote the poem on tall panes of gray.
That was the morning of the yellow finch,
A dropp of sun upon a garden bench.
Light raised the bird's momentum, inch by inch.
You held your coffee cup up to the sky,
Promised as long as yellow birds could fly,
This anniversary would never die
I hold your words much prettier today.
Though where the bird went, who could ever say?
Memory locks all emptiness away.
Comments about A Winter Day by Sandra Fowler
Maria C. Pires Costa (2/6/2010 3:36:00 PM)
Winter has a particular day for us: 4th February.
On that 'Winter Day' all of us want to stay
closer to you, praising your verses
so warm and lovely!
Warmest wishes,
Maria (Report) Reply
Andrew Blakemore (2/5/2009 1:53:00 PM)
The chill of winter melts away with the warmth of your words. Excellent work Sandra, best wishes, Andrew (Report) Reply
Tom J. Mariani (11/27/2007 8:13:00 PM)
Again, there is that shrp edge on you beautiful nature poems. This time I had to wait unitl the last line. It takes an extra abount of skill to do both in one poem.
Several of my favorite poets deal with this duality of nature and humanity: Robert Frost, Robinson Jeffers and you.
Tom (Report) Reply
Bill Grace (9/22/2007 8:59:00 AM)
You should be regularly published in a West Virginia travel magazine because I never wanted to see the state until I started reading you. Blessings, Bill Grace (Report) Reply
Ben Gieske (6/18/2007 8:35:00 AM)
I love your use of words to make moving pictures and again all of your years of living shared. I am referring to 'woodsmoke blew us away'
'A dropp of sun upon a garden bench'
and 'Light raised the bird's momentum, inch by inch'. Thanks for this winter glimpse. (Report) Reply
Raul Castelan (6/18/2007 2:40:00 AM)
You've done well with the way your words flowed here. You have a great way with them. BRAVO! ! ! (Report) Reply
Krishna Dasani (4/2/2007 10:45:00 AM)
as b'ful as a winter night.. love this line:
'memory locks...........'
splendid words..
krishna (Report) Reply
Melvina Germain (3/26/2007 6:42:00 AM)
An absolutely beautiful, peaceful poem, I truly enjoyed reading it. Thankyou for the beauty Sandra.---Melvina--- (Report) Reply
Michael Gale (11/2/2006 5:40:00 PM)
A great classic poem that flows smoothly as a summer piece.
Or- a winter piece! God bless all poets-MJG. An easy tenner. (Report) Reply
Esther Leclerc (11/2/2006 4:56:00 PM)
Sandra, such a lovely, deeply felt meditation on the little, significant things that go into memory. The last line speaks wells of truth. Esther (Report) Reply
Charles Garcia (11/2/2006 12:12:00 AM)
Hi Sandra;
As usual enjoy your post.
There is so much joy in watching and feeding the birds I have an open
aviaries, yellow all year finches are my favorite, I also live in the bottom of the United states, 'San Diego Ca.' get to witness the migration of whales, geese etc,
Charles Garcia (Report) Reply
Jolanta Gradowicz (10/31/2006 9:16:00 AM)
Your poems, Sandra, are very inspiring to me. Always when I have written your new poem, I think of... my potential one :) (Report) Reply
Tori Ocean (10/30/2006 6:36:00 PM)
it realy pulls up the sights and smells of winter...........it's like all memories are in this vast basin, and this poem sifts through them and pulls up the ones from cold days, fires in hearths, and frost on windows. (Report) Reply
Anjana Aravind (10/30/2006 2:44:00 AM)
This is so nostalgic...... It brings back many beautiful memories.
Well crafted poem.
Anjana (Report) Reply
Alison Cassidy (10/29/2006 9:30:00 PM)
This work beautifully written, filled with lingering nostaligic images and tinged with a mix of regret and acceptance. A fine poem indeed. Warmly, Alison (Report) Reply
Duncan Wyllie (10/28/2006 4:17:00 PM)
I love the feeling that flows from this one, as a promise, a bond held between two special people, wonderful writing, but then, it is from you
Thankyou for sharing your art
Love duncan XXX (Report) Reply
john tiong chunghoo (10/28/2006 5:39:00 AM)
wow, memory locks all emptiness away. that is a great line. love this sandra. (Report) Reply
Roy Storey (10/27/2006 5:06:00 PM)
Read this poem in other languages
This poem has not been translated into any other language yet.
I would like to translate this poem »
Sandra Fowler's Other Poems
Famous Poems
Phenomenal Woman
Maya Angelou
Still I Rise
Maya Angelou
The Road Not Taken
Robert Frost
If You Forget Me
Pablo Neruda
Langston Hughes
Annabel Lee
Edgar Allan Poe
Caged Bird
Maya Angelou
Rudyard Kipling
Stopping By Woods On A Snowy Evening
Robert Frost
A Dream Within A Dream
Edgar Allan Poe


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Listening Post: Led Zeppelin I-III remastered, Louis Armstrong and musical branding, 'Jersey Boys' etc.
Led Zeppelin, I, II and II Deluxe Edition Reissues (Atlantic). It almost seems as silly as pointing out the fact that water is wet, but I'll say it anyway - Led Zeppelin crafted music of such stunning dynamic depth, soulfulness and musicality that it entered into the realm of the timeless almost as soon as it was released. The ravages of time, the changing of the trendiness guard and classic rock radio's dogged insistence on beating it into the ground have not managed to deflate the mighty Zeppelin. With the release of the first installment in a full-catalog remastered deluxe version campaign, we are reminded once again that Zeppelin was much more than a heavy blues-rock fusion or, as so many have so wrongfully asserted, a proto-heavy-metal act long on bombast and short on substance. Folk, blues, funk, R&B, classical music, rock 'n' roll, country - Zeppelin channeled the influence of all of them into their own heady hybrid. Lovingly remastered by Zeppelin founder and guitarist Jimmy Page, the deluxe editions of Led Zeppelin I, II and III arrive with companion discs offering previously unreleased studio tracks, rough mixes, unused songs and alternate versions. For the Zep-head, all are worth hearing, for they provide an aural snapshot of the time period when Page, Robert Plant, John Bonham and John Paul Jones were crafting the beginnings of a canon that would tower over that of all others, save the Beatles. Page has done a fantastic job with the remasters – these recordings have never been heard in such crisp clarity. It's almost as if Page has invited you into the studio and given you a seat right between Bonham's bass drum and Jones' bass stack. The inclusion, with the deluxe edition of "Led Zeppelin I," of the full set played by the band at the Olympia in Paris on Oct. 10, 1969, is an absolute must-have. This is the group at its primal best, tearing through its radical reworkings of blues tropes with fury, yes, but subtle musicality as well. Each reissue comes with a book stuffed with period-specific photos, too. The album artwork has been dealt with as lovingly as has the music within. Page also remastered the three albums for vinyl, and not surprisingly, they too sound fantastic. You have options: there's a single CD version of the remastered original album; the deluxe editions, with the remastered original album, plus a disc of bonus material; the deluxe edition on vinyl; the digital download; or the deluxe boxed set, which packs all of the vinyl and disc editions together, and throws in a card for a hi-def digital download, to boot. Buy them for yourself; Buy them for a friend; Buy them for your kids. But by all means, buy them. ΩΩΩΩ for all three (Jeff Miers)
Louis Armstrong All-Stars, Columbia and RCA Victor Live Recordings, (Mosaic, nine disc box). It often seems as if Louis Armstrong is, in his way, one of the most difficult of all the greatest jazz geniuses to "get." If you've been raised on jazz as a music of sophistication and complexity, Armstrong, his act and his playing can cause nothing but consternation.
That's because everything you need to hear is on the surface, totally open and inviting to everyone who's willing to listen. There's nothing really hidden. In this, one of the sets that distinguish the whole purpose of Mosaic records' unvanquished devotion to the jazz heritage, you're hearing Louis Armstrong in live performance from the late '40s (a May 1947 concert in New York's Town Hall) to a 1958 Newport Jazz Festival. The bands were all called his "All-Stars" though there is a notable difference with a late-'40s Armstrong All-Star band with Bobby Hackett, Jack Teagarden, Bob Haggart and Sid Catlett to the later bands with Trummy Young, Edmond Hall and drummer Barrett Deems. In this era, Armstrong was becoming what we would now call a "brand," mostly on record through the guidance and efforts of one of the greatest of all jazz midwives on record, Columbia's George Avakian. It was routine to acknowledge that no one could imitate his seminal genius, but no jazz musician could avoid his influence either. And to acknowledge even more the love inspired around the world.
But this is also the era where because he was so open and extroverted, there were both musicians and, especially non-comprehending audiences, who dismissed him as archaic and having gone commercial and even as an "Uncle Tom" (to which Billie Holiday's answer had soulful perfection: if he's an Uncle Tom, "Louis Toms from the heart.") There are nine discs here in wonderful celebration of the ways in which, with George Avakian's help as producer, Armstrong kept the flame of his own music roaring in the company of one of most buoyant and loved live jazz acts that the music ever had. There are times when the line between complicated, Walleresque self-parody and holy guilelessness is almost erased completely. Nine discs of exalted jazz history, available by mail only from Mosaic Records, 425 Fairfield Ave., Suite 421, Stamford, Conn. 06902 or online from www.mosaicrecords.com. ΩΩΩΩ (Jeff Simon)
If/Then, Original Broadway Cast Recording, (Masterworks Broadway). "If/Then," featuring the lovably ditzy voice of Idina Menzel, zeroes in on the old theme of how life hinges on little things. Menzel plays Elizabeth, a divorcee newly returned to New York City. Does she stay in the park with one friend, or leave with another friend? The musical traces her in both directions, telling how things turn out. Eliza follows one path; Beth follows the other. It's sort of like the Gwyneth Paltrow movie "Sliding Doors."
Stories like this can be poignant, reminding us of our own lives and near misses. The very likable Menzel, who made a charming appearance in 2011 on the Buffalo Philharmonic's Pops series, plays her part with considerable charm. The songs, by Tom Kitt and Brian Yorkey, are less charming. They're funny sometimes, but in a raunchy, cheap way. There are the usual paeans to New York City. The shadow of "Rent" looms large. Menzel and "If/Then" co-star Anthony Rapp also were featured in "Rent," and the shows have the same director, Michael Greif. "No More Wasted Time" and "Love While You Can," both from "If/Then," echo "No Day But Today." It's a bleak philosophy, that today, this moment, is all that we have, and the humor, too, is bleak. It is all beginning to sound formulaic, all these New Yorkers who are stressed, confused, hurt and godless. Still, the mediocre songs are very well orchestrated and performed, and people like this stuff, maybe because it doesn't challenge us to judge our own lives too harshly. Billboard reports that this CD is selling tremendously well, debuting at No. 19, the highest debut for a cast album since, you guessed it, "Rent." ΩΩ (Mary Kunz Goldman)
Liszt, 12 Transcendental Etudes Performed by Lazar Berman (Melodiya); Various Composers, "The Transcendentalist" Performed by pianist Ivan Ilic (Heresy). What you have here is nothing less than a masterpiece of recorded piano music and its philosophical answer in sound. The masterpiece is Lazar Berman's atom-smashing rereleased version of Liszt's "Transcendental Etudes," one of those Russian recordings up there in the firmament of recording history (along with, say, Richter's recording of Mussorgsky's "Pictures at an Exhibition").
The answer to it is Ivan Ilic's "The Transcendentalist," whose annotater Eric Fraad launches straightaway with a need for revisionism of the whole idea of "transcendental": "In classical music, particularly piano music, the word transcendental is closely associated with the title of 12 piano studies by Franz Liszt. Liszt used the word to allude to the extreme difficulty of the music. The implication is that the musician who masters these works will transcend his or her technique, while stretching the physical, and by extension, expressive limits of the instrument … A broader awareness of the word's use might lead us to expect that transcendental music would exhibit the opposite of the quest for speed agility or control." And that's what you have here from pianist Ivan Ilic, filled not only with a good deal of Scriabin's always-remarkable and delicate mysticism but the still-shocking conceptualism of John Cage in "Dream" and "In a Landscape" and Morton Feldman's 1986 "Palais de Mari" (whose simplicity is so stark it's anything BUT minimal.) Completing the disc is a piece pointedly called "Music Without Metaphor" by Scott Wollschleger, a 34-year old pupil of former Buffalonian Nils Vigeland, himself the musician Feldman called "the most brilliant student I ever had." It is music that like all on Ilic's fascinating disc, completely "transcends" all idea of virtuosity altogether. (How can you not love a record label called 'Heresy?") Thesis and antithesis in perfect balance. You do the synthesis. Ratings: ΩΩΩΩ for Berman/Liszt, ΩΩΩ½ for "The Transcendentalist" (J.S.)
Paganini, 24 Capricci Performed by flutist Marina Piccinini (Avie, two discs). In the world of somewhat ridiculous instrumental adaptations of classical masterworks meant for other instrumentations altogether, no one will ever beat the Japanese virtuoso guitarist who wanted to prove you could play Mussorgsky's "Pictures at an Exhibition" on the guitar. When the Great Gate of Kiev ended up sounding like music for the opening of a new Olive Garden, the heights of absurdity had been reached. Marina Piccini's flute adaptation of Paganini's 24 Capricci for Violin isn't quite that absurd. John Coltrane, after all, used to claim he was influenced by these classical masterworks for solo violin (much more likely an influence on him was the Bartok Second concerto, but that's another story.) For all the flutist's virtuoso brilliance – and for all Paganini's own dedication of the work to all musicians – this disc is distinguished by one unanswerable question: why? ΩΩ (J.S.)
"Jersey Boys:" Music from the Motion Picture and Broadway Musical (Rhino). The operative word in the title is "Jersey." If ever there were a Broadway jukebox musical aimed directly at the fabled "Bridge and Tunnel Crowd" so crucial to the financial backbone of the Broadway Theater, it's the biographical musical about the rise and fall (and rise) of The Four Seasons, a sort of non-tragic white boys Garden State version of "Dreamgirls." It was just the thing to get Broadway's New Jersey fans to make the trip into town – not to mention tourists from everywhere else. Please be aware though that in their '60s prime, the sound of the Four Seasons – especially the Norelco falsetto lead singing of Frankie Valli – was enough to give some pop music fans at the time fits. Until a woman with a rich musical sense of humor forced me to relent, I personally refused to dance to any jukebox where some fool played "Sherry" or "Big Girls Don't Cry." Theirs was not a universally beloved sound mostly because of Valli's take-it-or-leave-it lead. The good news here is that Broadway and screen star John Lloyd Young doesn't have quite Valli's mechanical falsetto whine that could damage eardrums. The originals were not a patch, of course, on the silk and satin falsetto of the Ink Spots or the velvet of The Platters, not to mention the heavenly sounds of the great doowop groups like the Five Satins and the Flamingos ("I Only Have Eyes for You" was, along with the Ink Spots best, pop music sublimity.) So this pop music dead end at the time is a reasonably listenable biographical allusion to those Jersey Boys, with, no less, an attempt to sing Eddie Jefferson's "Moody's Mood for Love" (wherein Jefferson put words to tenor saxophonist James Moody's solo.) ΩΩΩ (J.S.)


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Let us know when your receive great advice so we can thank our lawyers and point others with similar questions in the right direction.Got it!
support due for my youngest child in the amount of over $50,000. This covers several years. She will be 18 in 12 months. I have always paid when due and never been delinquent. I do not have the money in a lump sum, own no property other than a car, and have no credit with which to borrow it. The child is no longer in Michigan. Can the court decide to simply to assess the amount over twelve months on top of what I would normally pay for child support? Can I get this moved to the state where the child have lived for several years?
There's a lot going on in this question. It seems crazy for you to owe that much due to a computer error that they just caught. Were you paying via direct withdrawal from your paycheck? If so, didn't you notice that the amount did not add up to the amount the court ordered you to pay? Either way, they will almost certainly work out a payment plan that is based on your income. They can't withhold more than 50% of your disposable income from your paycheck.
Why would you want to get this moved to a state that you don't live in? It seems from what you've said that it's in your interest to keep the case where it's more accessible to you, and moving it to a different state won't decrease the amount you owe because the amount is based on a court order that the other state will likely enforce.
You really should consult with a good family law attorney about this; many attorneys provide free consultations, and might be able to give you more specific advice about how to handle this. Good luck!Ask a similar question
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I've seen her name thrown around, Belladonna (spelling?) BTW is another name for Deadly Nightshade (flower name again). But which Amazon is she? --One-Winged Hawk 17:15, 11 September 2008 (UTC)
- From the chinese scans, it's most likely the one who put Luffy on fire, probably the Cher looking one with glasses. However the original japanese chapter with english translations maybe needed for full clarification.Mugiwara Franky 18:42, 11 September 2008 (UTC)
- All I can gather is she is one of the two new amazons seen in the bottom left panel on page 19 of the chinese scans. --One-Winged Hawk 18:46, 11 September 2008 (UTC)
Cher reference? Edit
Cher anyone? I've always thought her design was some sort of reference, I mean Oda always does stuff like this, and just look at her distorted face and compared it to when Cher had bad plastic surgery. Does anyone else think so?
XPearse (talk) 17:01, January 4, 2015 (UTC)
I'm going to pretend I have any idea who Cher is and say nice theory. But unless Oda confirms it in an SBS, it's not going on the page.
Never forget the terrible events of July 8th 2014 20:31, January 4, 2015 (UTC)


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Run From the Politicians
painting by artist Debbie Grayson Lincoln
7 in X 6 in (17.8 cm X 15.2 cm)
Oil on Canvas Panel
This painting is already sold. However, I may have other paintings available.
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Images may not be reproduced without the permission of the artist.


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Yes Virginia, they make wine in Virginia. Also New Jersey, where you'll find Old York Cellars.
These wines make for an interesting introduction to the styles you'll find on the other coast. We tasted along with the winery during a web-based event. Thoughts follow.
NV Old York Cellars Merlot – Nonvintage merlot, a distant cousin to anything you'd find coming from California. The curious nose seems vaguely eastern (or at least eastern European), with intense herbs, spearmint, and incense notes. The palate is fruitier than you'd expect, but very dry, its fresh fruits tempered with notes of bacon and barbecue. A bit of mothball comes along on the finish. Altogether, I can best describe it only as a very strange little wine. C / $18
2013 Old York Cellars Sweet Riesling – Some antiseptic notes kick things off in this semi-sweet riesling bottling, which eventually evokes some layers of orange blossoms and watery honey. The body is far less sweet than you might expect, coming across as herbal and sometimes vegetal. The very thin body cuts into what fruit is there — though the honey and apple notes at the core give it at least something to hold on to for a time. C / $17
Similar Posts:
- Tasting Riesling Two Ways: 2014 Blue Fish vs. 2015 Relax
- Review: Four Wines from Hogue Cellars
- Chateau Ste. Michelle Riesling: 3 Varieties Reviewed
- Review: 2012 Pacific Rim Riesling and Vin de Glaciere


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Wester's Custom Tuning
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Economy/Performance Tuning!
Sick of the crazy gas prices???
Ask about our New E/P tuning with 3Dmapping!!! This is brand new technology developed by Lyndon Wester. It gives you the highest possible gas economy AND the highest performance, all in one tune!!! Most are getting 2-4+ mpg improvements at steady cruising speeds, not just on the highway but at 30 mph and up! This optional tuning can be added to ANY of our tunes, right on up to our dual Hot tunes. Is this great or what, great gas mileage and maximum performance all in one!!! Other "tuners" offer performance tunes, and they may offer economy tunes, but only Wester's offers both together in the best tune you can buy at any price! And with the lifetime trade-in policy*, lifetime upgrade policy and Lyndon Wester's 20+ years tuning experience standing behind these tunes, why even consider any other tune!
What is Wester's Garage Custom Tuning all about?
has been in the engine tuning business for over 20 years, and offers
customization at a level far surpassing off-the-shelf programmers. Wester's
offers a number of programming options, from an 87-93 dual octane tune providing
modest HP and torque gains up through a "hot" 91/93 octane tune that will
most likely blow away any other programmer's so-called "hot" tune.
While many handheld programmers claim performance gains, what they fail to tell
you is that most of those gains are only available at the top end of your RPM
range. Wester's programming will give you both HP and torque gains across the
entire RPM range of your vehicle. Many vehicle owners will also experience
modest cruising mileage gains ranging from 1 to 4 MPG.
Each tune is customized for your vehicle based upon the VIN of your vehicle. We first reflash and updates the PCM with the latest program available from GM for your vehicle and specifically for your exact vehicle Identification number, then modifies that program based upon the parameters you specify.
My personal story with Wester's!
I found though that
running 89, then 93 octane boosted the power AND boosted the gas mileage, so
much that it ended up the higher octane was free, and so was the extra power.
I found Wester's about a 4 years ago. He wasn't that well known then but I wasn't satisfied with the Hypertech and Superchips programmers I already had so I gave him a call. He is so knowledgeable and accommodating that I ordered one for my truck! Five days later I got it UPS. Took all of 10 min to swap it and remove the stock PCM, it is located between the battery and radiator under the hood. Wow, I was impressed. Instant BIG difference in throttle response and power. The "dead spot" under 3000rpm was much better, the torque management was gone and the shifts were crisp with no overlap. My truck felt like I put a big block in it! And I was getting better gas mileage running 87 octane with no pinging!
I found though that running 89, then 93 octane boosted the power AND boosted the gas mileage, so much that it ended up the higher octane was free, and so was the extra power.Since I was running 93 octane anyway, I updated to a 93 octane Hot tune and again got a big performance boost. Stock I ran a 16.1 in the quarter. With the 87 octane tune I ran a 15.6, and with the 93 Hot tune I ran a 15.2, all with no other changes and with similar weather conditions. My gas mileage increased 1-2 mpg around town and 2-3 mpg on the highway, hard to believe but true. We have just developed the brand new 91/93 Hot tune which I am now running. AGAIN a boost in power, especially in the low and mid-range.
How the process works!
When you order a custom programmed PCM from us, it is programmed for your VIN#. On 2007 Classic and earlier trucks the dealer cannot tell it is not the PCM that came with your truck, nor can they see that any custom programming has been done. It looks all stock to them. Before we load Wester's custom programming, we flash all the latest GM updates into it for your VIN#, so the dealer will see it is completely up to date and not have to reflash anything. If by chance GM had an update in the future and the dealer reflashed the computer, just e-mail or call us and we will send another custom programmed PCM to you, no charge for life, (only a shipping and handling charge) when you get it and install it, check it out to make sure you are satisfied with it, then ship the original pcm core back to us. Also, if you ever make any changes to your truck in the future, like even larger tires, different gears, supercharger or whatever, E-mail or call us and we will send another custom programmed PCM to you, again only a small shipping and handling charge! If you sell your truck in the future and buy another, for the first one Wester's will credit your full purchase price paid toward the retail purchase cost of the new tune for the new truck plus $45. From then on tuning will be 50% of the retail cost of the tune for the second new truck, plus $45..
The previous truck must be returned to stock to take advantage of the upgrade policy. Please don't come to us after you've sold the truck with the tune in it...no return to stock, no upgrade credit!
most vehicles, you're never without the use of the truck because you don't
send your core
until you get the new one from us and install it!!!
NOTE...the core exchange is subject to core availability. The 2005 and older fullsize truck pcm cores are usually not a problem and we have plenty in stock, but the newer Canbus computers (see pic) used in the Trailblazers and the new style 06-08 fullsize trucks and others are in short supply. Always check on availability when ordering a tune or update, some of the newer vehicles will require you sending us the pcm/tcm from your truck!
If you have this new PCM, and an automatic trans, you may have a seperate TCM which we can tune too.
This is what the new PCM's look like. This is the old style PCM used in most all 99-2006 and 2007 Classic trucks.
If yours looks like this, check on availability of tuning.
Currently the flash files for many of these PCM's are not yet in the GM database so we cannot flash a core and do a core swap like we do on most other PCM's. We can tune these, but we need either your vehicle at one of our flashing dealers, or you must ship the PCM to me in MA or to Wester's in Canada to flash the tuning.
Depends on the model, many newer diesel applications can only be done from Wester's in Canada. Most all gas applications including the new 07's and all LS2's are available from me in MA.
We have these style cores in stock for 1999 - 2007 Classic trucks and can tune most every vehicle with this style PCM.
We currently Support....
2007-2009 Trucks
2007+ GMT 900 trucks with the following engines:
Please note that we do not currently support 6 speed Auto TCM programming by mail order.
We do support the 4L60E TCM.
2006 trucks
Trailblazer SS
Envoy/Trailblazer/Saab 5.3L V8's
Chevrolet HHR
All 4.8/5.3/6.0/8.1 and Dmax
2007-2009 cars
Corvette LS2 and LS7 engines
Pontiac Solstice LE5
Cadillac STS, CTS-V, DTS, XLR
Saturn Aura, Sky
Cadillac CTS-V LS2
Chevrolet Impala/Monte Carlo SS LS4
Pontiac Grand Prix GXP LS4
Chevrolet Cobalt LE5
Saturn ION LE5
Pontiac G6 LE5
Pontiac Pursuit LE5
Chevrolet Malibu/Malibu Maxx SS LZ9
Buick Lucerne, Lacrosse
Pontiac G6 LZ9
2007-2009 car engines:
4.4L Supercharged Northstar
4.6L Northstar
2006 cars:
Chevrolet Corvette LS2
Pontiac GTO LS2
Cadillac CTS-V LS2
Chevrolet Impala/Monte Carlo SS LS4
Pontiac Grand Prix GXP LS4
Chevrolet Cobalt LE5
Pontiac Solstice LE5
Saturn ION LE5
Pontiac G6 LE5
Pontiac Pursuit LE5
Chevrolet Malibu/Malibu Maxx SS LZ9
Pontiac G6 LZ9
2006 car engines:
4.4L Supercharged Northstar
4.6L Northstar in DTS
2005 LS2 cars
2005 Corvette
2005 Pontiac GXP
2005 Trucks
2005 Trailblazer/Envoy V8
pre 2005 GM trucks with 4.3/4.8/5.3/6.0/8.1/5.0/5.7, all Duramax and most all GM cars.
Performance Tuning Options
Octane level. Wester's performance tunes are now available with these octane choices:
In all our tunes, using higher octane will increase power and usually the gas mileage too!
The dual octane tuning, race mode Tow/haul and E/P 3Dmapping are only available in the 99 and up 4.8/5.3/6.0/8.1 engines
1) Dual 87-91 Octane tune -- automatically adjusts for octane. Our basic working truck tune. Many improvements over stock.
2) Dual 89-93 Octane tune -- automatically adjusts for octane. More performance than the 87-91 tune, but requires using 89 minimum octane. (These dual octane tunes are recommended for all dual purpose (work/play) trucks.
3) 91 Octane HOT tune -- much more aggressive than the 87-91 dual octane tune. 91 Octane minimum recommended.(Recommended for pre 99 trucks where higher than 91 octane fuel isn't available, like in California.)
4) 93 Octane HOT tune -- much more aggressive than
the 89-93 dual octane tune. 93 Octane is recommended (Recommended for
pre 99 trucks.
Limited heavy
towing or hauling for both these Hot tunes! )
5) Dual 89-91 Octane Dual HOT tune...The most
aggressive and hottest tune available for 91 octane limited area's!
Eliminates pinging issues with some engines running 91 octane by
automatically adjusting to 89 octane level tune if pinging is detected.
91 Octane is recommended. Suitable for areas where only 91 octane is
available, and occasionally 89 octane. (Recommended for performance trucks.
Limited heavy towing or hauling!)
5) Dual 91-93 Octane Dual HOT tune...the most
aggressive and hottest tune available! Eliminates
pinging issues with some engines running 93 octane by automatically adjusting to
a 91 octane level tune if pinging is detected.
93 Octane is recommended. Suitable for areas where 93 octane is
available, and occasionally 91 octane. (Recommended for performance trucks.
Limited heavy towing or hauling!)
6) Diesel tunes in all HP levels from mild to wild.
Of course we can custom tune any of the basic
program tunes to your specific requirements and modifications.
The 87 Econ/Perf tune will run on fine on 87, and will run stronger on 89,91 or 93 Octane.
87/91 and 89/93 dual octane tunes will be able to run with the lower octane in MOST conditions with good performance, or with the higher octane or anything in between when even more performance is wanted. The dual octane tunes are capable of tuning themselves automatically for a higher octane, and retuning again automatically again when a lower octane is used. The factory tune will only advance the timing to the limits set in the original spark tables. Filling the gas tank with at least 5 gallons of gas will trigger the automatic octane detection and re-tuning feature in the Wester's tuned PCM.
The 89/91 and 91/93 Dual octane Hot tunes should be run on the higher of the octane grade, (91/93 should be run on 93). These are our hottest tunes, the lower octane of the dual octane tunes is a safety so the tuning has a range to lower the tune level if pinging is detected due to a bad tank of gas. Running the dual hot tunes on the lower octane number gives the computer no place to back the tune down to and is not recommended.
It's like getting a
custom tune every time you fill your tank!!!
Under MOST conditions, all the tunes will run
fine with the octane programmed for, but altitude, towing, load, condition of
the engine, temperature, poor fuel quality, oxygenated fuels, or sensor
variations may require choosing a higher octane. Just be aware that under
certain conditions a higher octane fuel may be required, and that more
performance and sometimes better fuel mileage is available just by using higher
Torque Management and Abuse management Abuse management is GM's effort to reduce transmission and drive train wear and breakage by reducing engine output through timing retard and forced throttle body closing during "abusive" maneuvers. The problem here is that GM believes acceleration from a stop is an "abusive" maneuver, as is punching the throttle during a highway merge. Both of these maneuvers cause an immediate reduction in engine power – the characteristic fraction-of-a-second delay you experience when you try to make your truck move, we completely eliminate the abuse management.
In the transmission it is called Torque management. What this does is reduce engine power just before and just after every shift by reducing the timing. We remove 75-80% of that, leaving in enough to be safe and protect the transmission and drive train.. We believe it makes for a safer and more responsive truck without introducing unnecessary wear on the drive train. The "Remove most all" option on the order form is appropriate for most owners and will give you maximum safe removal of these management controls.
Transmission shifting.
This refers to how long of a delay there is between gear shifts and the pressure
applied to the shift. The "firmer"
the shift, the shorter the delay and the higher the pressure. GM sets shifting for smooth shifts, which
gives their trucks more of a "car-like"
ride. While this might appeal to some customers, the flip side of a smooth shift
is that it actually shortens the life of the transmission due to the slip
between shifts. We can increase the line pressure to give you a
firmer-than-stock shift and reduce the shift timing to eliminate delay between
gears. An ideal setting for most
customers is midway between "Normal"
and "Firm".
Select "Normal"
if you have installed a shift kit or other transmission shift modification.
Shift RPM. The RPM at
which an upshift occurs at wide open throttle (WOT). The stock setting
for stock trucks is usually 52 -5400 RPM.
Some customers will want to leave this stock, but we recommend 5600 as the best
all around shift point. 5800 RPM is the maximum recommended value for this
parameter with stock cam and springs, but we can and will put this to any RPM
you desire.
Speed limiter. GM trucks come programmed from the factory with a speed limiter set at appx 100 MPH. Most customers choose to set this at 130MPH, effectively eliminating the speed limiter. We can set this at any speed you request, just make sure your tires are rated for the speed cutoff you select!
E/P tuning with 3D mapping. This is an optional proprietary tweak to the tune that we add to all street to increase gas mileage. The newest E/P tuning will give you Maximum fuel economy AND maximum performance!! This is brand new!!! Most customers will experience modest mileage gains of 1-2 mpg around town, gains will vary depending on driving style and driving conditions driving. Steady cruising is where the E/P tuning is most noticeable! Driving at most any steady speed over about 30 mph will gain you 2-4 MPG over stock, even with our hottest 91/93 tunes!
Tow/haul button. We can
program this button for firmer shifting and a higher shift RPM.
If you plan on towing with your vehicle, leave this blank.
Otherwise, check "Race"
for added performance! We will normally set
to shift
NOTE...The tow/haul button can only be programmed for transmission functions, shift points, line pressure (firmness) and torque converter clutch lock-up. It cannot be programmed for anything else.
Speedometer calibration for tire diameter. Most assume that tires of the same size are the same diameter between manufactures. This is not always true, and diameters can vary as much as an inch, causing your speedometer to read incorrectly. If you have replaced your tires, even with the same size that originally came on the truck, do a rollout test or at least measure the loaded diameter of the tire to determine a true circumference. This will assure that your speedometer will get the correct calibration and will show your true speed. The loaded diameter is determined by measuring from the axel centerline to the ground with the full vehicle weight. The easiest way to take the measurement is to measure from the top lip of the wheel to the ground. Then measure the wheel lip to lip and subtract half of that measurement from the measurement you took from the lip to the ground. This will be your loaded radius, X2 is your loaded diameter. This will not be the same as the manufactures diameter data and will usually be 1-1.5 inches less.
If you enter the manufactures diameter on the form, your speedometer will probably read incorrectly.
Easier to just give us the tire size, we know the correct calibration factors for all tire sizes!
Complete reflash of the PCM to your VIN, with all factory updates.
Dyno developed performance
tune optimized for your exact engine and transmission combination.
Raised and optimized shift
Firm, but not harsh, shifts.
Elimination of all abuse management and 70-75% of transmission torque management. (that is a safe amount!)
Some of the more
common modifications to ask for.
Raising the top speed limiter
to any speed you specify.
Specifying the exact shift
points you want in every gear.
Firmer (or softer) shifts.
Specific tuning for your
modifications, like larger than stock tires, gear ratio change, supercharger,
turbo, headers, cam change, higher stall converter, engine modifications,
E/P tuning with 3DMapping for economy
We will get your tune right, or will re-tune it at our expense (with the exception of core return shipping) until it is!
Lifetime warranty (nominal
shipping and handling fee)
Lifetime updates for all
future mods (nominal shipping and handling fee)
($25 S&H charge if you purchased the original tune from me, $45 if purchased from another dealer or Wester's direct)
Standard USPS Priority shipping is included for all shipments within the USA.
Next day shipping service or shipments to outside the US will be charged the additional actual shipping charges.
Lifetime trade-in credit toward your next custom tune for your next vehicle (If we do tuning for
it) (nominal shipping and
handling fee)
See trade in terms below.
See trade in terms below.
Re-tunes for a new vehicle on the lifetime
trade in policy. Full
price paid upgrade credit toward your
next vehicle custom tuning purchase, plus a $45 fee. *
you paid for your original tune will be credited toward the tune for the new
truck or vehicle! After
1st vehicle upgrade, any following vehicle upgrades will be at 50% of
retail pricing as currently published at Wester's Garage website, plus $45.
qualify for the trade in credit, we must reprogram your current computer back to
stock. No return to stock, no trade in credit!)
*(NOTE… Upgrade trade in credits are non-transferable and can only be used by original purchaser, they can only be applied toward tuning for the next vehicle, and only if we have returned the original vehicle to stock. Trade-in credit cannot be used toward any other product but another custom tune done by Wester's garage or by Advanced Products as Wester's dealer. The upgrade tuning must be a vehicle we do tuning for and may require bringing the vehicle to, or sending in the original pcm/tcm either to Advanced Products in MA, or Wester's Garage in AB Canada for tuning. The credit has no value other than the discount off another custom tune, absolutely no refunds for trade in credits. If you do not have a vehicle we can tune, we will hold the credit for three years following the date of trade-in.)
To qualify for the credit, we must have the tune back, or reprogram your computer back to stock , no return to stock, no credit!!
Please don't come to us after you've sold the truck with the tune in it...no return to stock, no upgrade credit!
The lifetime upgrade credit works like this, If you have a spare PCM, swap it and either send it in the Wester's tuned PCM, or just hold on to it. If you don't have a spare PCM, you will need a couple of weeks lead time! You e-mail us, we'll then ships you a stock tune, based on your VIN#, when you get it, swap it in and ship the Wester's tuned PCM back to me (to avoid a core charge). When you get your new truck (or car) that we offer tuning for, we put together an order form, and the original purchase price, will be applied toward the retail cost of the new tune. There will be a $45 ship/handling fee, plus the difference in price (if any), that's it. Ship your new old pcm back as the core.
core exchange is subject to core availability. The 2005 and older fullsize truck
pcm cores are usually not a problem and we normally have plenty in stock, but the newer
Canbus computers used in the Trailblazers and the new style 06-08 fullsize
trucks and others are in short supply. Always check on availability when
ordering a tune or update!
For maximum performance and
convenience, road testing with real-time data recording and direct loading of
Wester's tuning
into your vehicle is available in some areas of the country. Please inquire for
more details about this service. This service is currently available in the
Dallas area of Texas and from my location in Eastern MA. Check with me!
"Dual Octane
and the term "Hot
Tune" was developed by and is a trademark of
Wester's Garage
& Advanced Products
Contact me at firstname.lastname@example.com
with questions or to start the order process!
We also have tuning for over 50 other models of both cars and trucks, contact me for info!
Check with me also about any current promotions or special rebate availability!
Interested in becoming a Dealer or Representative selling
Wester's Custom tuning in your own local area?
I currently have 32 Dealers and Reps in the U.S.
Contact me, I am always looking for new associates!
No cost or fee's and no quota's!!
Sell part time at your own pace and make money doing it!
Advanced Products
Exclusive US distributor of Wester's Custom Tuning
Contact email@example.com
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By Patrick DiCaprio, FantasyPros911.com
When dealing with the Closer Identifier Algorithm (CIA) there is no room for judgment in generating results. We can explain the result after the fact, but every situation gets a result based on the formula with no subjectivity.
LATEST RESULTS: CIA scorecard
One of the benefits of an algorithm is that it can identify, without subjectivity, when one pitcher is obviously better than another based on the conditions. In Jeremy Affeldt's case with the San Francisco Giants, Sergio Romo is far more skilled, just as the L.A. Angels' Scott Downs is far weaker than Ernesto Frieri. The plainly better pitcher will win out over time.
Here are two other situations where a plainly better pitcher is pitted against an inferior co-closer.
Los Angeles Dodgers: With the discomforting news surrounding Kenley Jansen, Ronald Belisario and Brandon League are reportedly in the mix, but Belisario got the first call. Given that both replacements get a "lose" status, this is a bad time for Jansen to be out.
Belisario gets dinged for his strikeout-to-walk rate, but only by what amounts to a rounding error. His skill set is nowhere near the middle-of-the-pack closers, so he is vulnerable.
As relatively weak as Belisario may be, League's skill set is far worse. His K/BB rate is below 2.0 and his strikeout rate is a mediocre 6.9 K/9, both below CIA minimums. Bet on Belisario.
San Diego Padres: With Huston Street suffering another setback, Luke Gregerson has vaulted into the mix. Dale Thayer went on the paternity list, and even after Thayer returned Gregerson got the call and converted the save. He promptly blew his next opportunity, naturally.
Thayer is barely a "hold." His whiff rate is 7.09 K/9. At the time we ran the algorithm for the above-linked spreadsheet his K rate was 6.99, which gave him a "lose." His status has bounced around all year. And, Thayer is only 7-for-10, one save above automatic "lose" status.
But, like the cases above, Gregerson's skill set blows away Thayer's, and he gets an easy "hold." His K/BB rate is 4.0 and his 132 BPV is close to the second tier of closers. Gregerson should be able to rebuff his erstwhile challenger.
The current version of CIA:
1. Does the pitcher have a share of the closer's job? In the cases we are writing about this will usually be yes, but it should apply to all relievers if it is valid.
If so, is his save percentage greater than 90% with 10 or more opportunities. If "yes" then "hold." If "no" proceed to step 2.
Is the pitcher's save percentage less than or equal to 60% over his last 10 opportunities? If "yes" then "lose." If "no" proceed to step 2.
2. Is his strikeout rate (K/9) above 7.0?
3. Is his strikeout-to-walk (K/BB) rate above 2.5?
4. Is his BaseballHQ BPV above 80?
If the answer to conditions 2-4 is yes, then CIA predicts he'll keep the job. If the answer is no to any one of the conditions, it predicts he'll lose the job.
Follow Patrick on twitter @pdicaprioFP911 and listen to him on The Fantasy Baseball Roundtable Show
Steve's been with USA TODAY in one form or another since 1993. He started at USATODAY.com in 1996, becoming the website's baseball editor in 1999, and has written the fantasy baseball column for Sports Weekly since 2006. Follow him on Twitter: @sgardnerUSAT.
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text:
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Note: Prepare bay leaves for cooking by breaking them in half and placing them in a tea ball. Toss the tea ball into the soup pot. You can easily find the tea ball when it's time to remove the bay leaves.
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text: Randi Zuckerberg, sister of Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg, became angry during the holidays after a photo she shared with her "friends" on Facebook was reposted on Twitter. Zuckerberg said asking before posting someone's photo is about human decency. What do you think? Should social media users seek permission before sharing other people's photos?


text:
You know what's not ideal? A New Orleans-style
boozefest, ahem, business trip in the days leading up to a PR-attempt race. While it was a really great trip, from both a business perspective and the fun-factor, I am certain that the last 3 days have not prepared me to race my best on Saturday. Let's recap:
Monday – Wake up at a ridiculously early hour that I usually reserve for only sleeping or running. Travel to New Orleans, with pre-packed snacks of grapes, berries and a banana. Track down a veggie-filled Subway sandwich for lunch and then have a great all-afternoon meeting, followed directly by dinner at Drago's. Two glasses of wine, grilled fish with green beans and bed time at 9:00 p.m. (At least I started with the best intentions.)
Tuesday – 6 horrible, awful miles on the gym dreadmill. Death to the TM, but safety first!
All-day meetings/work stuff followed by 5 p.m. happy hour reception, shortly followed by dinner with craft beers and capped off with a looonng evening hopping from bar-to-bar on Bourbon St. In pouring rain. And 4″ heels. Dancing and drinking lasted well into the early morning hours and I finally stumbled to my room between 4 and 5 a.m.
Wednesday – Wake up at 7:55. Pace around my hotel room a little to get the blood flowing and dial in to 2-hour teleconference starting at 8. It was blurry, but I am pretty impressed with my performance (i.e. I stayed awake). Forgo nap for 40 minutes on the elliptical and some upper body strength. Stuff poor, swollen, blistered feet back into work shoes (flats this time) and proceed to walk every aisle of the trade show for the next 5 hours. Finish the work day with yet another happy hour (including 2 glasses of wine and a fantastic client meeting!). Dinner, with more wine and beer, followed by low-key drinks with long-time business friends. Avoid Bourbon St. and go to bed at the oh-so-early-hour of midnight-ish.
Thursday – Wake up at 7:30 feeling surprisingly refreshed. Travel home. Skip planned run. Begin recoup with naps on plane and lots of ass on couch.
So, what do you think? All things you would recommend before attempting to run an already challenging, stupid-fast (for me) time in 13.1 miles on Saturday?
I am not making excuses. If I don't run as fast as I hope on Saturday, it will be my own fault and my own doing. Could I have been responsible and skipped the especially late night of partying? Of course. But in my new position at work I haven't seen many of the colleagues that I was spending time with in months or in some cases, years. I really, really miss them and I wouldn't trade the fun that we had and the stories we created for anything. Not even a much-desired PR. There will be other races.
I am all packed and getting Nuun-ed up though and I am ready and excited to run! We are leaving tomorrow morning around 9 and hopefully I will be squealing excitedly and eating lunch with Elizabeth by noon!
Good luck to everyone racing this weekend! Especially Jess and Steph in Rohoboth and Ali in Dallas!


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Plus, how to get boozy ice pops to actually freeze.
If you want boozier pops, increase the gin to ⅓ cup.
This jewel-toned salsa recipe can be used on more than just crackers.
Really, it's possible.
For this porridge recipe, pulsing long-cooking spelt, wheat berries, or barley in a blender yields a tasty base for a hearty, savory supper.
Plus, find out why grocery store grapes are so blah.
Five-spice powder plays wonderfully off fruit. In this recipe, stem-on grapes are tossed in the oven alongside chicken breasts to concentrate their sweet-tart juices. The method works wonderfully with plums, too.
Farmers' market grapes are way tastier than the supermarket varieties. Here's how to find the best of the bunch—and what to do with 'em.
Crunchy, bitter, acidic, juicy: If these words don't make you think of salad, this gorgeous dish is about to expand your vocabulary.
Console yourself about the end of tomato season (sad!) by eating your weight in juicy fall grapes.
Here's how to buy, store, and cook with grapes, in season in September.
Named for their town of origin in Massachusetts, Concord grapes thrive in colder climates. They start appearing at farmstands in early September.
When all else fails, just add toast.
With grape compote on hand, you're halfway to a sundae; simply serve with some vanilla ice cream.
Yes, you can grill a whole turkey. The bird sits in a foil baking pan on top of the grates, so there's no danger of it burning. The hardest part is maintaining the grill temperature (a thermometer eliminates the guesswork). Need more convincing? Imagine Thanksgiving Day with the oven freed up!
We tried all kinds of gingersnaps to make this easy crust. Our favorite? Anna's Ginger Thins.
Simple, sweet grapes are in season in September, and we've got tips on how to buy and store them, plus 8 grape recipes, from salads to desserts
This version of white gazpacho, traditionally made with green grapes, is brightened with the addition of green apple.
The ginger "bug," which jump-starts the fermentation in this recipe from chef Cortney Burns, Bar Tartine, San Francisco, specifically uses organic ginger because it's rich in microbes. You'll have extra bug; use it to make more grape soda, or try 4 cups fresh unpasteurized apple juice in place of grape.
Food Innovation Group: Bon Appétit and Epicurious
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Artist: Our Last Night
Album: Age Of Ignorance
Genre: Melodic-metal
Label: Epitaph Records
At this point it certainly isn't a secret. The metalcore scene has exploded over the last couple of years, churning out bands left and right. For some, this is exactly what they've been yearning for, the unique genre of clean vocals coupled with softer instrumental interludes mashed together with powerful screams and breakdowns, finally getting the attention it deserves. However this scenes' rising popularity has led to an alarming of number bands jumping on the bandwagon and trying to cash in on the latest craze. While there may be a number of bands that rise above the rest, creating a fresh take on a redundant scene, there is a far greater amount of bands failing to stand out and simply pushing out the same ol' sound. Enter Our Last Night with their new record Age Of Ignorance, out now on Epitaph Records.
Hailing from New Hampshire, the melodic-metal outfit Our Last Night have created a hard-rock album that, to put it simply, has been done before. Now that's not to say there aren't a number of bands out there re-creating a sound someone else has made and finding success and praise because there are, but does that mean everyone should follow them, trailing on their coattails looking for a piece of their own?
With that said, a stale sounding album does not necessarily mean the album is a failure. The record does have bright spots, including the song "Liberate Me", filled with brutal, impressive guitar work and perhaps the best vocal performance found on the record. However, considering how good this one song is, I found myself wondering where was the passion and intensity from this track on the rest of the album.
Just as the album picks up it's attitude, it leads into the song "Voices", a half-acoustic, slower track that lulls the listener, and the record, back to sleep. As quick as the record grabs your attention, it loses the listener, finding themselves lost in another mediocre metalcore effort. Sure at times vocalist Trevor Wentworth's voice soars to impressive levels and guitar-duo Matt Wentworth and Colin Perry deliver certain face-melting guitar riffs, but what metal band doesn't? The album fails to produce anything that is exciting and captivating for fans.
While listening through the album for the first time my biggest criticism of it was the lack of originality or of any real sign of attempting to do much different. However the band does attempt to push themselves into new waters with the second to last track on the album. The band's track "Invincible" kicks in with a electronic dance music feel before leading into another forgettable track, quickly losing the curiosity created by the song's introduction( although there is a breakdown towards the end which sounds like a dub step sample).
While Age Of Ignorance isn't exactly terrible, it isn't very good either. It's just another example of an over-populated scene spitting out another record. With so many bands recycling sound and releasing new music, band's like Our Last Night will need to push themselves harder and create something that hasn't been done. Or really nail something that has.
Score: 5/10
Review written by Matthew Dondiego.
Latest posts by Matthew Dondiego (see all)
- Music Video: Turnover – "Most Of The Time" - March 21, 2013
- Music Video: Daylight – "In On It" - March 21, 2013
- Johnny Craig Announces UK Tour, New Songs - February 6, 2013


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Start 2017 on the Right Path
New Year's resolutions, beloved by some and loathed by others, are an integral part of the New Year's tradition. We wish our relationship to the new year to be one of joy and anticipation, and we ...View Article
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|Ensuring Restful Sleep - Positive Self-Talk
A great way to establish the habit of restful sleep is to quietly talk to yourself a little before falling asleep. In essence you're talking directly to your subconscious mind, and the instructions you give your subconscious can go far toward ensuring a good night's sleep and a successful day tomorrow.
Positive self-talk has been championed by renowned plastic surgeon Maxwell Maltz in his world-famous book, Psycho-Cybernetics, and by many leaders in the field of human peak performance, including Earl Nightingale, Napoleon Hill, and Norman Vincent Peale.
Give thanks for your wonderful family, friends, and job or career.


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how much should i charge for a repro set of hole in the horn antlers
Return to Beginners Category Menu
Either charge YOUR cost to obtain them plus a small commission, or charge a real handful extra if you were foolish enough to copy a copy, because its illegal and youll need it! Im not sure where you are coming from, so I say this all rather tongue in cheek. Wanna elaborate?
I know Stewart has some incredible sets (Minnesota Monarch I believe is one of them) - he mentionned to me that Hole in the Horn recently sold. Just wondering if anyone has the name of the current owner? Id love to contact them and find out what existing casting agreements there are regarding this set; number of repro sets, number of molds etc... I suspect however its just sum1 trying to make me jealous that they have an awesome set that I dont... hehe - if thats the case.. I assure you beginner.. I really dont care. I've worked on molding an 8.3 million dollar T rex skeleton... a set of antlers isn't gonna make me jealous... I've already got my 'crown jewel' in my career - one that I doubt I'll ever top. If ya really do have a legal mold of these things - cast em in urethane or WEP and sell them for $3,000 a set. Good Luck =)
or at least my aunt does he lives in thhe state of florida and the hole-in-the-horn buck hangs on his wall until a deer and turkey show comes up that one that sold was a reproduction mount and when the guy that owns it passes on it will be put in the state museum in ohio from what my aunt said and there cannot be any reproductions made from him and the repros from him sell for $5000 shipping included
There is a site that post on here from time to time, it is my understanding they are the only one allowed to reproduce the hole in the horn antlers. One famous whitetail taxidermist has done work for one person that knows exactly where they are and who owns them.
Maybe do some reseach on them from real sources the next time.
They have the casting rights.. .so 'beginner' - if ya DO have a mold of it - hehe - yer lookin at jail time most likely...
OK everyone - now that that lil hoax is over.. heres sum info ya may enjoy knowing... the cost of a repro set of "Hole In The Horn" antlers mounted is a whopping $5650! Unmounted is $4980!
i dont know im a beginner and baught it because i knew that they would bring in a lot of money im taking it back to the guy that i bought it from


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If you are picking up your kitten, meeting me halfway or picking the kitten up at the airport, you will need: A small litter box in the car, in case your new kitten needs to use it… A carrier/crate will keep your kitten safe for the ride home. Make sure to keep your kitten in the car by shutting all the doors before you take it out of the carrier.. If you plan on letting the kitten ride loose in the car to your home… stop by Pet Smart and get a ferret halter and leash. They are a black net jacket with a colorful binding and leash or something similar (usually under $10.00). This will keep the kitten out from under the brake peddle and out the door. The safest place for the kitten is in the carrier.
Prior to the arrival of your new kitten, set up a small area where your kitten can be confined (bathroom or even your bedroom). This area should have a bed, litter box, food and water and some toys for playing.. Visit the kitten often and spent some time with him/her.. When the kitten learns who you are and begins to trust you, then you can introduce them to the rest of the household. If you have other cats, we recommend two weeks of quarantine because your new kitten could have little germ that could be harmful to your resident cat or vice a versa.. It is better to be safe than sorry.
If no other cats are in the household, use your judgment, and take the kitten in other parts of the house for short supervised visits.. There are several reasons for this recommendation:
A new house can seem very large and be very scary for a small kitten.
The kitten will not be able to find its way around so the litter box will be lost to it..
The kitten can become frightened and hide from you. A small area allows the kitten to get used to you and will come to you for play and comfort.
Never put a collar on a cat. Even the break away collars have hung cats. Use a harness made for cats. Or Pet Smart has a harness for ferrets that will fit a kitten and a harness that is larger for a rabbit..
Make sure all the plants in your house are safe for cats.. Many common plants are poisonous to cats. There are several websites that list all the plants to avoid.
A Bengal will seek the highest point in the house to hide and sleep.. The problem is Bengals are usually clumsy and knock everything off on their way up. If you have priceless treasures, I promise that will be their favorite place.
Have a quiet place set up for your new Bengal or yourself, whoever needs a time out. They can act like a toddler and drive you nuts.. A time out is a pleasant time.. Most Bengals want to be involved in whatever you are doing. They like to be close to you and want lots of attention.. Be careful where you walk, your Bengal is likely to be just where you were going to put your foot. I suggest shuffling your feet at first so you can gently push him/her out of the way until they get the idea.
Scratching furniture can be avoided. Get your Bengal a good sturdy cat tree for climbing, playing and sleeping.. When the kitten goes to the couch or chair and starts to sharpen its claws, pick it up and put it on the tree.. Soon it will get the idea.. If you do not get a tree, there are alternatives.. A round disk with corrugated cardboard in the center and a ball on the outer ring or a corrugated cardboard box.. Both are sold at Wal-Mart or Pet Smart..
Make sure your new kittens toys are kitten proof.. No plastic eyes or strings that can come off and choke them.. Feathers and shiny pieces should only be played with when you are in the room.. Put teasers away in a cabinet when you are not playing with the kitten.. Kittens chewing on things and getting them caught in their throats is the number two killer of kittens. The number one killer is electric cords. They like to chew.. You can put a hot sauce on the cords to make it unpleasant or wrap all low cords in tubes..
Washers and dryers are a hazard to cats of all ages.. Cats like small, warm spaces. There have been several articles on cats being killed in washer and dryer. They crawl in while you are not looking and fall asleep or hide in the clothes.. You shut the door and turn the machine on and they cat dies before you know it is missing. Please be careful always check the washer and dryer for your friend before you turn it on. Caution every member of the household to do the same.
The doors that open to the outside of your home will remain an interesting place for the kitten to run through. The outside world is a wonderful place full of very interesting things for the young cat to investigate, birds, butterflies and other friendly creatures.. It also hold more danger than we can imagine.. Worms, parasites and stinging bugs, are just a small few.. The place where a stray un-vaccinated cat did it's business can be found by your cat, exposing your cat to lots of harmful diseases. Other harmful things can be found, cars – trucks - trees – small pipes to get stuck in – thieves – poisonous plants – getting lost. There are many dangerous animals out there. Please keep your cat inside.. If you play with him, he will never need to go outside unless on a leash.. Scat mats placed in front of doors can curb his curiosity, a small bottle of coins hung on the door that you can shake to make a loud noise before you open the door.. I have one hung on the inside and the outside of the door.. At first it seems silly but when the cat is running past you or your guest into the unknown of the outside world, you will wish you had taken the time to do it.. There is nothing lonelier than a pet owner walking the neighborhood looking and calling for their lost friend.
If your pet does get out, call me and perhaps I can help.
Take a few minutes to search at the library or Internet for other hazards for your new friend.. This kitten will be a loving companion for many years with just a little research on your part and regular vet checks.. Please remember that I am just a phone call away, should you have a question or need advice.. I always love to hear how you are getting along..
Pictures are a must have.. I will post updated pictures on the site..
Thank you for purchasing a Bodcau Bayou Bengal companion to enrich your life.
Jamie Trombley
This site was last updated


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Villa Mimosa
Bed & BreakfastVia Nuova del Faro, 48a - Anacapri
Simple, friendly and with a spectacular view of the sea
Villa Mimosa
- The spectacular sunsets seen from the Villa's terraces
- Capri is just a short and scenic bus-ride away
- Secluded sunbathing on your bedroom balcony
- Annual closure: from 1 January 2018 to 28 February 2018
Villa Mimosa - AnacapriBack to the top
If you're looking for a hotel in Anacapri and like the idea of staying in a typical island home within easy reach of a bus stop from where to catch buses to Capri, you'll love Villa Mimosa.
Sea views you'll always remember
Exactly how a B&B on the beautiful island of Capri should be, Villa Mimosa occupies a traditional Mediterranean villa, lovingly transformed by the owners in to a charming bed and breakfast.
Air conditioning, satellite television and a sea view terrace on which to relax and sun bathe in blissful privacy: Villa Mimosa's bedrooms have everything you might need for an unforgettable holiday in Anacapri.
Sunsets you'll never forget
Villa Mimosa is the ideal place to stay of you want to witness the spectacular vision of the sun setting over the sea.
After a day spent lazing on the beach or walking along the island's fabulous coastal footpaths, you'll want to return to the hotel in time to enjoy the magnificent display of light, from your terrace.
Want to see the rest of Capri? Stay at Villa Mimosa and you can easily rent a scooter or a boat: ideal methods of transport for those eager to explore the island and the sea which surrounds it
The road to the lighthouse
Villa Mimosa is situated on the road which leads to Anacapri's lighthouse and one of Capri's most beautiful beaches.
The historic center of Anacapri, home to the Villa San Michele museum, the Church of San Michele and the chairlift to Monte Solaro, lies within easy walking distance.
The main bus stop, from where you can catch buses to Capri, Marina Piccola and Marina Grande, is only a few meters away from the B&B.
Villa Mimosa: ServicesBack to the top
- Rooms
- Free Wi-fi
- Air Conditioning
- Safety deposit box
- Room with private terrace
Other suggestionsBack to the top
Bettola del Re
- A fabulous location int he center of Anacapri
- Book the Deluxe with a private hot tub
- Linger over breakfast on the terrace
- Discover Anacapri, the 'other half' of the island
- Enjoy the comfort of a home-from-home
- Villa Damecuta and the Guardia are on your doorstep!
Il Tramonto - The Sunset
- Watch the sun set, aperitif in hand, from the terrace lounge
- The effortless elegance of a traditional island home
- Discover Anacapri, the "other" Capri
La Giuliva
- The strategic location in the center of Anacapri
- The fabulous, sea view patio
- Free Wi-Fi: a welcome treat


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Find Where Washington Ranks on States with the Most Pride. Do You Agree?
Movoto recently ranked all 50 states on how much pride each state has. The ones you're proud to be from. The states you were born in, raised in and will die in. I was surprised Washington wasn't ranked higher on the list, but it could've been worse. See which state comes in at No. 1 and where Washington stands.
The top 5 states, in order:
1. Ohio
2. New Mexico
3. Alaska
4. Maine
5. Utah
Apparently, Cleveland does rock. I'm not exactly sure what Alaska has to be proud of, but if you live there, you would know exactly how beautiful it is.
Washington comes in all the way at No. 39. Seriously?! I would've hoped it was in the top 10, at least, but, again, it's better than California which comes in last, all the way at 50.
See where all the stay line up and find out why they're placed there on the Movoto blog.


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" Genre: Role-playing / DVD-ROM for Windows XP / ESRB Rating: Rating Pending / Release Date: 2009-07-03 / Published by Bethesda "
* Prices may differ from that shown
Operation Anchorage (DLC: Xbox 360/PS3/PC) - 4/10
Three words. What the hell? Eight words. What the hell is this piece of rubbish?
First of all, I can inform you that Operation Anchorage is easily the worst of all the five packages of Downloadable Content for Fallout 3- and it's really a shame that it was the first to be produced and sold. It takes the worst parts of Fallout (primarily the repetitive combat), condenses it - then spits it back out at you. For anybody hoping for a continuation of the narrative, that's not here I'm afraid. Instead you get placed in a fictional "virtual environment" without any solid justification, and are expected to complete roughly three tasks before the package abruptly comes to a halt.
The narrative of this content is very un-Fallout-y (if I'm allowed to invent words). You play your original Fallout character, who must mysteriously track the original source of one of the many unsystematic radio broadcasts across the wasteland. Once "tracked", you must enter a simulation for no apparent reason, other than to please you're co-brotherhood pals. This simulation takes you to the fictional liberation of Alaska. I come from the United Kingdom, so the majority of this had no effect on me; however the narrative seemed to revolve around the fact that America had supposedly fought the Chinese in these arctic conditions to prove something to someone. Or maybe it's cos like three-dawg said: 'War never changes' - ACTUALLY THATS PRETTY CLEVER. Damn. Anyway, you are the "best of the best", armed with any virtual device the game feels cheery enough to give you and with one cool cursing son-of-a-bitch friend for aid.
The new environments, I must say, look stunning - and the game play isn't all that bad. I actually did for one moment feel totally immersed up on the arctic cliffs, listening to the howling winds and seeing the snow crunch under my feet. However the sheer length of it (2 hours it took me!) and the repetitive nature I felt it adopted really spoilt this, otherwise decent, effort from Bethesda.
* Nice new setting.
* Rather cool innovative ways of giving you health and ammo.
* Likeable solider characters.
* Goodies afterward are always a good thing.
* Repetitive as hell.
* Soldiers vanish once dead (I know it's a simulation, just looks tacky).
* Too short - Nothing really to do with Fallout. Other shooter games have done this, and much better.
The Pitt (DLC: Xbox 360/PS3/PC) - 7/10
Three words. Hurray at last! Five hundred and twenty-two Words:
Now we're talking! Unlike the previous instalment 'Operation Anchorage', I finally feel back at home in the Fallout universe. Whilst both are similar to the extent that they both take place in new environments, as opposed to Anchorage's "simulation" excuse The Pitts really makes you feel as if you've discovered a brand spankers genuine location in the Capital Wasteland. The build up to the entry is (like most things about the content) fantastic; as the mysterious Wehrner approaches you in the midst of his own personal battle. Before delving straight into the troubles of the Pitt, you must complete a few missions in the Capital Wasteland. These range from murdering (yay), to changing outfits - but generally it feels nice to prepare yourself for the events as opposed to jumping straight into it all. It is evident that the developers spent a large amount of time on this title. It contains the atmosphere, humour and entertainment we've all come to expect from the franchise - and in my opinion could easily have been included as one of the major set pieces in the original Fallout 3 title.
The ambience is so oppressive, claustrophobic and well crafted that you have to give Bethesda thumbs up for creativity. You're eyes literally feel tortured once you're subject to hours and hours of endless mechanical waste, caged pathways and fiery radiation. I felt it a shame that the majority of the slaves would not communicate with you, as their pain is so evident during their monotonous routine of working in the Mill. I also greatly appreciated the inclusion of an almost "horror movie" -esque back-story/subplot, as Wehrner explains that some of the residents have mutated into ghoulish Trogs. These creatures are straight out of a sci-fi horror, hunting around on all fours, silent yet extremely fast paced. To me, they sort of resembled the aliens from Dead Space, and if you found that scary, you know where you are with this.
That's not to say it is without its problems. The game is extremely buggy; I think I counted six times that it froze on me during crucial moments - forcing me to restart the console (and consequentially the section). At the beginning you are stripped of all your items, and no one really ever tells you where they are. I HAD to use the internet to help me otherwise I'd have walked straight out of Pittsburgh without any of my beloved items. Finally - in the midst of a battle I accidentally hit a crucial character. That character got pissy and started attacking me aswell. There was absolutely nothing I could do to get the character back on my side, so in order to advance the plot I had to kill them and lose karma! Then, later on in the game - another character was telling me about how the character I'd already killed was feeling, and what they intend to do once I complete my next mission. If that's confusing I do apologize, I'm just trying to keep anything spoiler-ish to a minimum. Suffice to say, it was crazy and really detracted from my overall enjoyment of the game.
* Nice new setting, complete with atmosphere and a great narrative.
* A more likable and diverse array of characters compared to Anchorage.
* Some fantastic new weapons! And fantastic horror creatures!
* Far longer than Anchorage.
* Certain areas begin to look the same, making it easier to get lost and easier to get a migraine.
* Full of bugs that need to get patched.
* Still not long enough for the price tag.
For those not already aware, Fallout 3 is a first/third-person RPG set in a post-apocalyptic nuclear wasteland. It was developed by Bethesda in 2008 and uses the same engine as Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion. It has received critical acclaim and a number of Game Of The Year Awards.
This package contains the first two add-on packs for Fallout 3, "The Pitt" and "Operation Anchorage." Both include vast new areas of land which are placed through "Portals" at the edges of the Capital Wasteland in a similar vein to Oblivion's expansion; The Shivering Isles.
Having picked up a radio distress call from a man named Wehrner, The Lone Wanderer (The player) is given the opportunity to travel to a vast slave-driven steel mill, and colony, ran by an idealistic tyrant named Ashur. To pour salt into the wound, a radioactive virus is slowly causing the workers to change into animalistic troglodyte cannibals, who crawl around on all fours, clawing, biting, and disemboweling their way through the steelyard, barely held at bay by Ashur's ragtag band of raider sharpshooters.
Ashur's wife, meanwhile, is working on a cure and vaccine for the 'trogg' virus, the key to which seems to be her daughter, Marie, who has built up an inexplicable immunity, but the slave underclasses are becoming desperate. As you might expect, it's up the Lone Wanderer to redress the balance in whichever way he sees fit.
Graphically, it is easily the most stunning Fallout 3 level of them all. The enormous flame-emitting furnaces of the steel mill and monolithic industrial structures are incredibly well-rendered and designed, giving a real sense of fear of the industrial prowess and intimidating height of Ashur's work-camp. Sadly, this is probably its best feature.
Despite its excellent premise, The Pitt falls short in many of the ways that Fallout 3 does. First off, the whole thing has a half-finished feel to it, as the player does a hell of a lot of running around from one objective location to the next, with little distraction in between. The instances are too big and ambitious for such a small and conventional quest.
Chracters are a little weak as usual, (it even seems pointless to give most of them names.) and despite there being a few unique shop vendors, there's really not much of a reason to return to The Pitt, once you have finished the short-lived, if relatively non-linear quest associated with it. There are no side quests and few ways to make the story your own. You can either join the good guys or the bad guys, and neither will make a great deal of difference, not to mention that it is far too easy, with the troggs going down in one or two hits, and giving out far too much XP. Also, the player must fight in "THE ARENA," a Mad Max style fighting pit, against various opponents who look intimidating but are a piece of piss to kill, even if your skills are incredibly low. This cant even be rectified by using the already flawed difficulty options in Fallout 3 (if you set combat difficulty to low, XP is scarcely given out, and if you set it to high, much more XP is given out.) - Doesn't work at all.
Basically, they should have put a lot more work into this, and despite there being a lot of new weapons and unique raider apparel to take back with you (Including the 'Auto axe,' a huge industrial steel-cutter perfect for eviscerating the most threatening of foes,) the characters, and quest is so half-baked that alone it wouldnt really be worth paying for. Also its buggy as hell, and the constant reloading of savegames to surpass programming errors gets really, really tedious.
Upon installing this expansion, the player once again receives a radio transmission, this time from the Brotherhood of Steel Outcasts, requesting backup. Exploring the source of the transmission will reveal that The Outcasts are in need of an interface device in order to access a virtual reality system in an underground bunker. The only way the Outcasts can retreive the locked hidden technology inside the bunker is by successfully completing an ancient virtual reality-based military training program, - The liberation of Alaska from the Chinese. Your signature pip-boy computer serves perfectly as the interface device, and you must enter the virtual reality program and help defeat the chinese. Donning the Neural Interface suit, the player plunges into the VR simulation and becomes part of the team partaking in Operation Anchorage.
The levels are full of "recharge stations" for health and ammo, and guns cannot be picked up from enemy bodies, which detracts from the RPG element, but really throws you into the simulation effecively.
Once again, the graphics here are excellent, and running across snow-capped mountains really shows the diversity of the Fallout 3 graphics engine, as the setting is incredibly different from that of the Capital Wasteland.
First off, the player must navigate his way across a network of Chinese patrol outposts, in order to attach explosives to their artillery cannons and run like hell. This works really well as it is probably the best way to stretch the stealth aspects of Fallout 3 to their limits, sniping off Chinese troops as you creep from post to post via flimsy bridges is a lot of fun. (But of course you can always just run in with all guns blazing!)
There's no safety parameters in the simulation so game death means real death.
Having destroyed all the cannons, you recieve a promotion and are debriefed, before being given your next and main mission; The assassination of a Chinese general.
The player gets to outfit his own team of 5 troops, arming them with the arsenal of his choice, Assault, Sniper, Heavy Weapons etc, and this does add to the expansion's re-playability value, but, as we have come to expect with these expansions, there remains one gaping flaw:
Throughout your primary mission you are accompanied by an army lieutenant who you can give orders to (again adding to re-playability) but is for all intents and purposes, utterly indestructable. So to finish this very long quest, you don't even have to fire your gun. Its far too easy with this character on your side, and there's nothing you can do about it.
About the only element of non-linearity in Operation Anchorage, is that you can do sub-objectives in the order you wish, in the main quest you have to destroy tanks, disable a pulse field and invade a compound, and you can do it in any succession you see fit.
Characters are pretty likeable here, and the level design is a bit samey across the board, but there's some really nice textures and models, as well as a lot of cool-looking new technology here that's definitely worth a look. Also, having completed the simulation, you are granted access to an armament cache, which contains many really cool and unique artifacts - weapons and apparel, from the Operation itself.
This expansion is very playable if you just forget about your invincible companion, and the fact that if your team is killed, you can requisition a new one. So once again, difficulty is what really lets it down.
Although both games are only mediocre overall, two expansions for this price for a relatively recent Game of The Year is probably worth it.
Over the last few days I've seen this game for various prices, the best being around thirteen pounds on Amazon. If you've finished Fallout 3 and need something new, try and get it for around this price or second hand. If you're into torrenting, these expansions are remarkably easy to find free on the internet, and incredibly easy to install if you're playing it on PC. The box itself doesn't really come with anything other than the data. So its up to you.
Minimum System Requirements:
XP with service pack 2/ Vista
1gb RAM
DirectX 9.0 compliant graphics card with 256gb of RAM
*NvidiA 8600 or greater.


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Gareth L.wrote a review of Billabong Amplified Cord Pant - Men's on October 7, 2011
I love these cords! I was originally looking for the McFeely Cords but they don't sell them anymore, however these are a good replacement pair. I bought two pairs and I love them - highly recommended!