text:
" Take a 1.5 hour tour through the dungeon, a thrill like no other attraction. "
Recently I had a little holiday to Edinburgh; one of the things that attracted me to this beautiful place was Laura's (Angelboouk) ghost tour reviews! Then when I started Googling Edinburgh there were many more things I saw I wanted to visit!
Edinburgh Dungeons:
'500 years of Edinburgh's darkest and most gory history, 11 live actor shows and 2 scary rides make the Edinburgh Dungeon an educationally chilling experience and a great day out for the whole family'
- www. the-dungeons.co.uk/Edinburgh
My Findings:
I'm a person that loves anything spooky so after reading about different attractions within Edinburgh the haughty Edinburgh Dungeons certainly appealed to me. I loved the idea of live characters, for me it was going to like being in a creepy live play up close.
We booked our time slot for 10am and from our hotel getting to the dungeons was only a short walk, as it is right by Waverley Train Station. Walking up to the building it didn't really look as creepy as I thought it was going to be, however looks can certainly be deceiving.
The Dungeons also open at 10am the same as our time slot, we arrived bang on 10am and the door opened straight away. There was no waiting around at all, which was great for us as the weather in late September isn't the best. We received a warm welcome and were directed to the ticket booth.
First off we had our photo taken, I was in the stocks and my partner was given an axe! As the photo was about to be taken we were told to scream. This for me started to the tour off well, we both screamed as loud as we could and was given an around of applause for our brilliant effort. After our photo we were given a ticket number so we could collect our photo at the end of the tour.
At the ticket booth we handed in our printed tickets to the attendant, he was brilliant telling us about the tour and health and safety. Once finished at the ticket booth we were sent to the waiting room, where we would be collected to face our doom!
In the holding room it was themed brilliantly and very suiting in the style of the dungeons, it had posters of whom we would be meeting and gruesome tales that happened around Edinburgh. Only a few minutes wait in the holding room, and then we were greeted loudly by the Judge! We knew then that is tour wouldn't be for the faint hearted.
The dungeons are set in eight sections, the first one being the Judgement of Sinners. This is themed on the 17th century justice system. We were all seated in the dungeons courtroom, were the judge shouted at us for our crimes. There were a few guests, my partner being one of them that was singled out his crime was stealing underwear and his punishment was either death or being sent to Wales (he chose death).
Once the judge had finished with us we were all then sent to the next part of the tour which was the Torture Chamber . This where madam torturer showed us what torture was like on the Edinburgh Royal Mile. Again this room was themed to suit, the actor was brilliant and again my partner was picked for the women to show how the torture tools worked. Even showing one that used to castrate men, then giving us a little smile telling us they were available from the gift shop!
Now onto the third part of our tour, which also consisted of a little boat ride to our gruesome next destination. Sawney Bean Cave of the Cannibals! Riding down into the cannibals caves, in the dark we experienced many bumps along the way. There were screams, gust of winds, bits dangling down tickling your head. At the end of the ride we were greeted by Sawney Bean's children, telling us how much they will enjoy eating us! If you have even seen the film Wrong Turn, that is also based on Sawney Bean.
Okay half way now on the fourth part of our terror tour, Burke & Hare the Business of Murder. Burke and Hare were notorious serial killers and grave robbers. They used to sell the bodies for medical research that the doctors had a no questions asked policy! Burke & Hare came up with a way to kill their victims without their bodies being marked. They have themed an operation table and a graveyard, which was all rather spooky and jumpy too!
The fifth installment was Mary King's Ghost, based in 1646 at Mary King's Close on the Royal Mile. The streets were ridden with the horrid disease plague. A ghoulish figure appeared to tell us of the awful tales that happened there. For me this could have got the best performance award! Just a few minutes walk away from the Dungeons is also the real Mary King's Close!
Our sixth treat was William Wallace, whom I'm guessing most people have heard of due to the film of Braveheart. The tale was told of the size of William and how he came to meet his end, the female actor played out her character well. But for me for such a huge figure this was played down a little.
Seventh was the Drop Ride to Doom! This ride was our sentence at the gallows; we were all seated then raised up. At the top of the ride there was a video being played telling us of our sentence and we were all about to be hanged. Then all of a sudden with great speed we were all dropped!
Then Labyrinth of Lost Soul was our eighth and last instalment, it was a glass maze where we had to try and find the exit. For a few minutes we were walking around the maze, with no hope what so ever but then a door opens up into the photo booth and gift shop.
As we walked out of the maze we walked straight into the photo collection, there was two photos of us one on the ride the other at the start where my partner is about to chop my head off! We picked the photo we wanted and there was a different price deals. Ours came to £10 which was for a keying, magnet and large photo which was a good for the price in my opinion.
And then after the photo it was gift shop time! The gift shop on the hold is average size in term for a gift shop. Many gruesome items and novelties, all set out sell and not over crowed at all. We purchased some sweets and two mugs. The shop assistant was lovely, asking us if we enjoyed our time in the dungeons and wished us well for the rest of the day.
Price and Availability:
Buying tickets via their website certainly gives you the best deal. Door price is £16.20 per adult and £12.00 per child, however online you save £6.00 per ticket. So for me and my partner is only cost up £20.40 which for the time we had was a great price.
On there website they also do deal bundles with other places so well worth a look if you are planning a visit. Please check website for opening times as it changes through out the year.
On the hold I had a great fun time it lasted around an hour and thirty minutes, lots of drama, the actors did a brilliant job in their role play. If going to Edinburgh again this would be a place top of my list to go again. From this visit I would also be interested in visiting the other Dungeons too. Hope I haven't given too much away, a place well worth a visit!
The Dungeons do have disabled facilities but do only permit only one wheelchair at a time, there also toilet facilities if needed but no where to eat. However the Royal Mile just a few minutes walk from the Dungeons has plenty of places to eat.
There isn't a set age range really as child tickets start from the age of 4! I personally think this is more suited to 8 years and over.
Massive five stars from me.
Thank you for reading.
Edinburgh Dungeons
31 Market Street
Within the UK, there are four dungeons attractions. They are located in Blackpool, London, York and Edinburgh.
~Edinburgh Dungeons - The Essential Information~
31 Market Street
Edinburgh Dungeons is located around the corner from Waverley Train Station in the city centre. There is no onsite parking but parking is available nearby. Edinburgh Dungeons is open most of the year excluding a few dates and Christmas Day. Depending on the time of year, they will open at either 10am or 11am and close between 4pm and 7pm.
Tickets can be booked in the attraction but you can obtain savings by booking online at www.the-dungeons.co.uk. If you have a Merlin Annual Pass, this will allow you to visit anytime during the year.
*Adult - £16.20 (as low as £10.20 online)
*Child - £12.00 (as low as £6.00 online)
You can also combine Edinburgh Dungeons with a 2 course meal at the nearby Hard Rock Cafe or with a ticket for Loch Lomond Sealife Centre for a reduced price. See the website for details. Those under 16 must have an adult with them. Groups are discounted and they offer special tours for the groups. You can also have your birthday party here and they offer hen/stag party deals too.
~Edinburgh Dungeon Attractions~
Edinburgh Dungeons have been purposely designed to allow visitors to experience the horrible history of Edinburgh but in a less 'serious' way (compared to the ghost tours). Here is a brief overview of the attractions which I will discuss further on.
*Judgement of Sinners - 17th century court room.
*Torture Chamber - what would have been used during interogations and executions?
*Sawney Bean : Cave of the Cannibals - meet a family of flesh hunters and take a ride on a boat.
*Burke and Hare : The Business of Murder - a burial ground where you come face to face with the murderers.
*Mary King's Close - 1646 streets and the plague!
*William Wallace : Allegiance - complete with talking heads!
*Extremis : Drop Ride to Doom! - face you doom on this ride.
*Labyrinth of Lost Souls - a maze at the end of the attraction.
~Our Visit~
I have visited Edinburgh Dungeons three times now - with my fiance, as part of a large college group and most recently with my sister. My sister hadn't been before and I thought she would like it. We arrived at the Dungeons around 3pm on a Friday afternoon. It is very easy to find. There are quite a few stairs down to the Dungeons but there is a lift and someone can come and help should you need help. I personally do not feel this attraction is ideal for those with mobility issues.
We had a 2 for 1 voucher with us and I personally wouldn't visit without one as I feel £16.20 is very expensive for one person. We split the cost and also purchased a guide book which was well worth the £3.00. The 'tours' leave the reception area every 10 minutes or so and we waited the maximum time. Everywhere is dark and 'cold' but thankfully dry inside and spacious. Our group consisted of 6 teenage girls, a couple and my sister and I. We knew we were in for a giggle with the bubbly girls with us!
Since my last visit around 2 years ago, there have been a few bits added to the attraction. If you are looking for something 'serious' you won't get it here. The actors do their best to sound serious and do give a little bit of history but ultimately, it is difficult to keep a straight face as they are a little comical. That isn't to say that there aren't some scare aspects to the Dungeons - there are especially if you aren't expecting them so be on your guard is all the advice I can give!
~Off We Go~
The tour of the attraction flows well and a decent amount of time is taken in each section. No photography is allowed and they will throw you out if you try to take pictures. It is important that you do not touch the actors either! We had our picture taken before heading off - me in the stocks and my sister happy looking at the prospect of chopping my head off! Each section has realistic backgrounds and actors - nothing seems out of place given the time and location it is supposed to resemble. The costumes are fab too.
The Courtroom has always been a firm favourite of mine. We had a female judge who brought two of our group up on charges. I felt incredibly sorry for the only man in our group as he was picked for everything throughout the attraction! He was brought up on charges of cross dressing and this was hilarious - poor guy was mortified! The other girl was brought on charges of being a witch and dancing around naked! Thankfully I wasn't picked but I do recall my tutor being chosen before and brought up on crimes against fashion charges - won't forget that one!
One section not mentioned on the website is the operating room which reveals a 'surgeon' who uses a large and thankfully fake body to show us various organs. This section offered some surprises but I won't say anything else! The Torture Chamber is excellent. The English man in our group was once again picked to be caged up! My sister was also picked to be demonstrated upon. We found out about tongue pullers and the likes - cringe! The actress demonstrating was freaky and didn't flinch when telling us about what would have happened to criminals many years ago. All of these instruments are detailed in the guide book I purchased and this makes for interesting reading,
Moving on, we met jumped aboard a long boat doomed for Sawney Beans cave. Despite having been on this boat before, I was still anxious and hearing the girly screams from the front made me worse as I knew something was up ahead and causing frights! Sawney Bean himself was a scruffy, hillbilly type guy who creeped up in various areas of the cave. This reminded me of something from the Wrong Turn films! Bones, possessions from those murdered..yuck but well acted! The Burke and Hare section wasn't brilliant. It consisted off some tomb stone seats and the lights went out. Nothing special and really just a voice over.
Mary King's Close led us meet another actor and a realistically designed dark, close. This is a relatively short section of the tour and simply features a foot thumping actor and a misty figure of a lady - nothing particularly scary! Being a Scot, I was highly impressed with the William Wallace section! If you aren't aware of who William Wallace is, he fought for our country to free it from the grasps of the English back in the 1200s. He was then killed! The strench in this section was vile though and smelled of pee and alcohol which could explain the drunk acting - I think it was Sawney Bean again so perfect re-use of the characters!
Once again and as you would expect, the English guy was picked to face the wrath of William Wallace and took it in his pride! William Wallace is only partly present though - his head is on a large stick and it is fully animated. He spoke and sent mild insults and orders to kill the English 'twit' I believe was his choice of words. Luckily the English guy wasn't offended but some may be! The animated head was so funny. It kept making weird expressions and I couldn't help but laugh. The story was told of what happened to Wiliam Wallace and was done so in quite a loud, comical way with the word 'numpty' being used. To be honest, the one scenario reminds me of Still Game (a Scottish show).
The final part of the tour led us to the Extremis ride. This ride was opened a few years ago and this was my second ride on it. I actually expected something that dropped you through the floor so was a little disappointed the first time. You can ride if you are pregnant of course or have heart issues/major back problems and the likes. Everyone in our group went on. Extremis is a bit like a mini version of the Ice Blast (was the Playstation at Blackpool Pleasure Beach) and is in a dark room. You are secured in and raised up before being dealt your fate and drop back down into the dark room. It is fast and you do 'jump' as you fall but it is short lived!
~Time To Shop?~
After wandering around the mirrored maze (which is fun but frustrating when you can't find your way out!). You arrive at the picture shop. We had the option to purchase the Extremis pictures or those we had taken before entering the attraction. We avoided the ride photos as we looked awful in them but my sister bought two copies of the stocks photo for £10.00 (£7.00 each). They were of a high quality. We then headed upstairs in the lift.
The main gift shop has lots of souvenirs to choose from. Cheaper options including sweeties, pens and stationary (from 50p). There are various ornaments, pictures, t-shirts and bags available. I picked up a bag and it was priced at £21.00 which is extortionate. My bag had snapped half way around the attraction so I settled for a £2.00 'Bag for death' which was a canvas bag which was blood stained. My sister opted for a small stationary set for my nephew but there isn't anything you would take home to Granny or for young children! They also sell light refreshments including slush drinks, chocolate and juice but they are quite expensive.
I can highly recommend the guide book as it goes further into the history of Edinburgh and has some interesting facts about Jack and Ripper, Vikings and discusses offences which would result in execution.
My sister enjoyed the Dungeons but thought they were nothing spectacular. I feel they are worth a visit if part of a big group. Audience participation is really good if you are up for it and the acting is great. Staff are friendly and there is enough to see but not enough to justify the high entry price so look out for vouchers. Some may not like being part of a tour but there is no option to wander around at your own pace as you will miss all the stories etc.
I probably would go back if they add anything else on and it is definitely worth a visit if in the city.
Thanks for reading x
Edinburgh Dungeon
We were recently in Edinburgh and decided to go to the dungeon as we had enjoyed London Dungeon.
The Dungeon is easy to find since it is just behind Waverley station and os all visitors need to do is follow signs to the station. There are also off street car parks close by, so after we left the car it was just a short walk for us. The dungeon wasn't difficult to spot as it had a large sign on the low rise stone building and even the arched windows told us where we were.
**The Dungeon...**
No queue to get in here although once inside we realised that there were plenty of people. As soon as we walked inside it is dark and gloomy and even the toilets, located close to the entrance have fake blood dripping down the doors, so the scene is certainly set! Once through the ropes we had the obligatory photo shoot with my head in the stocks and Little Miss raising the axe above me whilst we had to let out a blood curdling scream. These photos, as well as the phot from the drop can be bought at the end of the tour, costing £5 for one and £7 for 2 photos.
The tour takes approximately 80 minutes and is the history of some of the darkest moments in Scotland's past. There was very quickly a group large enough to start the tour so off we went.
The first place we went after a fairly creepy walk was the Judgement of Sinners set inside a 17th century court room complete with judge in full regalia. This requires audience participation whilst the judge calls various visitors to the front to receive their sentence so no room for shyness here.
The Torture Chamber also required some poor soul at the front whilst the various implements of torture were discussed and shown to the visitors. The room is certainly very grim and the lady torturer looked the part with her blood stained clothes
For me perhaps the spookiest part of the attractions was Sawney Bean: Cave of the Cannibals. We were all put onto a boat and travelled deep into the cave ready for their meal time (this after having heard the story of the cannibal children). Once on the boat there was an incline for a short while and then the boat stopped. It was in complete darkness and all we could hear was the whisperings of the cannibal children and could feel things touching us. It was quite a relief to get into the actual cave where, although it was pretty grim and the actors were quite convincing, at least there was light.
A short walk away (again in the gloom) we met the serial killers, Burke & Hare. Our guide asked f we wanted to meet them and in they came, and again we were plunged into darkness. I kind of knew what would happen here as I had visited London Dungeon, and after all of the whisperings, the chairs we were sitting on were flung backwards. Once again, I had a bit of a shriek since the whole room was scary as we were sitting in a graveyard.
From here, we walked on to Mary King's Close ready to meet the ghost of Mary King. A definite unpleasant smell lingered around this narrow alley with a tall house situated at one end. We were told a story about a lady who tried to help a family during the plague. The lights went off again and we were told to stand back while an actor ran through the centre of the lines and there was lots of bangings. Again, not for the faint hearted because just the banging in the pitch black is quite disturbing.
One of the final people to hear about was the story of William Wallace, and the tale of his gory end. Here was a room with heads on stakes; the stake having Wallaces face was animated so he could talk and shout at the audience. We were told the story and a member of the crowd was picked out to have his head chopped off. Quite amusing the way it was done as there was a big axe, the actor said he had missed but held aloft an ear.
One of the main attractions was the Extremis: Drop Ride to Doom! We sat in seats with a bar across us, and were lifted high into the air while we had our sentence read and fate decided. Once the fate was decided, the lights went of and with speed we were plunged to the ground, so quickly that I actually bounced out of the seat.
The final part of our journey was the Labyrinth of Lost Souls. We walked out of the drop ride and into a series of mirrors. Really weird because regardless of where we tried to walk we could not get out. It soon became apparent that we were walking around in circles and there was no way out until a member of staff opened up the door and we were into the place where photos can be bought.
**The Shop...**
The shop is situated just before the exit and sells the usual array of gifts you never knew you needed although these are horror themed!
Address: 31 Market Street Edinburgh EH1 1DF
Telephone: 0131 240 1001
Website: http://www.the-dungeons.co.uk/edinburgh
E mail: firstname.lastname@example.com.
Adult: £16.60
Child: £12
These are the prices on the door but much cheaper online and there are also other deals to combine a meal at Hard Rock Café or Loch Lomond Sea Life Centre.
The tour is just the right length of time and the stories interesting and gruesome, but nothing overly terrifying. The actors are good and they seem to know the people they can call upon for participation since no one objected.
Definitely recommended if in Edinburgh.
Thanks for reading
Daniela xx
Be scared out of your wits and enjoy a short but frightening water ride through the edinburgh dungeons a must see attraction on a trip to edinburgh.
The dungeons is a stones throw away from mary kings close and so to view both on the same day is a must to have a truely edinburgh haunting day. Costly to get into the dungeon, but students you get a discount and there are plenty of leaflets about that give you discounts also especially in hotel lobbys so look about.
Walking into the court room you are sat down, and accusations are given out to various members of the crowd about witchcraft basically to start building up a story for people. Its fun and interactive but dont worry nothing to scary, just fun and informative to get you into character.
The dungeon is a long walk through, and into each room you are scared witless by people and things jumping out at you and a story in each one, however this is incredible and thoroughly entertaining. In each room people are dressed up in character and have warts and all on their faces, they frighten you and each room is incredibly real creating a persistant atmousphere.
The water ride is interesting and is incredibly short but quite frightening and many screamed by the end of it.
All in all a fabulous and entertaining attraction, well worth a visit and combines the history of witchcraft and torture that succumbed to many in old days.
Edinburgh dungeons is in the city centre just a stones throw away from the main railway station and it markets itself as a feast of fun with history's horrible bits and it is an entertaining place to visit to learn about Edinburgh's murky past. The guided tour of the dungeons takes you through hundreds of years of Scottish history and actors in period dress bring the past to life. Edinburgh certainly has a murky past with witchcraft, body snatchers and many ghosts within the city.
The first part of the tour involves a witchcraft trial, I was the one selected to stand in the dock while an actor boomed accusations at me and I was then sentenced to death. There is a room which has many of torture devices on display which are gruesome to say the least.
Burke and Hare were notorious serial killers who delivered their victims bodies to the surgeon Robert Knox to use them in anatomy theatres as a teaching tool for medical students. The fresher the cadaver the better and they made a fortune selling corpses before they were caught. A trip to an anatomy theatre tells their gruesome tale, if you visit the police museum a few hundred yards up the Royal Mile then there is also a leather notebook on display which is made from the human leather of the killers after they were executed.
The catacombs underneath Edinburgh castle have been recreated as a mirrored maze where you will spend ages wandering around lost trying to find your way out. The stories of William Wallace and cannibal Sawney Beam are also told. The dungeon uses impressive special effects to bring these gruesome exhibits to life and as well as jumping out of your skin you will also have a good giggle.
The one criticism I have of the dungeons is that the tour seemed to be a little rushed, it probably took around an hour in total but it felt like we were herded from room to room a little bit too fast and I would have liked to have lingered and looked at the exhibits for longer. It is also an expensive way to spend an hour if you pay full price for the tickets which is currently £13.95 for an adult admission but there are often vouchers available giving reduced entrance fees and if you book online for a quiet time of day then the prices are also lower.
If you are a tourist you will learn a lot about Edinburgh's history from a tour around the dungeons. If you are a local then you will be familiar with all of the stories told but will still enjoy your trip. The actors at the various different rooms of the exhibit were enthusiastic and really helped to bring the stories alive. It is not a place to take the very young or those who are very timid but it is a place where most adults will have a lot of fun.
I will start the review by letting you all know before reading that I Have put information off my whole visit in here. So if you plan to visit and want a surprise tour don't read this review.
For a short break away after the wedding we decided to visit Edinburgh for a couple of days and one thing my new husband James said he really wanted to do was go to the Edinburgh Dungeons. I wasn't so sure as I had previously heard they were really scary but decided that it was worth the visit as it was something James really wanted to do.
We had looked up on the internet for prices and we knew that you could get a discount for being a BT employee so we thought we would just wait until we arrived and give them the code from BT to get our discount.
Edinburgh Dungeons are situated in the City Centre and we actually found them by complete accident whilst looking for a parking space as Princess Street is currently closed at the moment.
The dungeons are located on Market Street.
Car or Public Transport?
Actually the dungeons have limited parking outside but it's very expensive (£2 per hour!) And you can only leave your car there for a max of three hours before having to move it elsewhere. Don't think you can get away with it either because I lost count of the amount of traffic wardens I seen walking up and down the streets checking the cars.
We were going to park at the NCP car park but couldn't get there due to road closures again this would be quite pricey to park there for the day also.
If we actually thought things through it would've been cheaper for us to leave our car on the outskirts of Edinburgh at the South Gyle shopping centre where it's free parking and then taken the bus into the centre of Edinburgh and walked everywhere. It would've probably been less hassle for us as well as neither of us have really been to Edinburgh before.
Ok so due to being on our way down the road already we had no proper access to a computer so we decided to look online at the prices and we were shocked to see the difference in price from booking online or booking once you got there.
Prices are from -
£7.50 for an adult if you book online or £15 at the gate
£5.50 for a child booked online or £11 at the gate
£6.48 for OAP's and students booked online or £14 at the gate
That's a 50% difference in price and we began to regret not looking into this before we left home. We only had access to internet via iPhone so not really able to properly book it. Again though with James being a BT employee we thought we'd get a discount at the gate.
Unfortunately when we went to pay we were told that for a BT discount you have to book via the internet so we had to pay the full cost which on the day was £15 each.
They offered us a guide which we were told cost £4 but both of us decided that it was too expensive just for a guide that would probably never be used again after the visit.
My Experience
Once you arrive to the dungeons you have to go down the stairs to get to the entrance. It was really dark compared to outside so took my eyes a while to adjust making it difficult to follow the path down to the entrance.
Once there you are greeted by a really cheery member of staff who greets you and makes one of you go into the stocks and the other to hold the axe for a photo which you can then purchase at the end. They give you a ticket to keep hold off so you can then see the photo at the end and decide whether you want to buy it or not.
Once this is done you then go and pay. Prices as I have written above. You are then told to go into the room along the corridor which was called the holding room and wait for the tour of the dungeons to start.
The day I was at the dungeons there was a lot of giggly teenagers which I was a bit worried may ruin the experience.
After about 5 minutes the door was shut behind us all and we had to wait for our next tour guide called the Judge. I was a bit unsure at first but that's just because I'm scared of everything. After a minute or so the Judge appeared and took us into her court room where we all had to sit. I was right at the front on the end of the benches and I knew that something was going to happen to me.
The judge ranted about all of us being the next victims and then I was pulled up and told to go into the docks where she asks your name and then makes up a story about you. I couldn't help but laugh throughout it and I think it really broke the ice and made me less nervous about the whole thing.
Once she pulled another person up and made the crowd laugh at him as well we were then shooed out of the room and ended up in a torture room where we heard a little bit about the character and her life as it would have been living in these dungeons.
She then made someone sit on the torture seat and showed us all the instruments and told what they were used for. Making the guy in the torture seat very nervous at times as like the rest of us didn't know what to expect to happen. It was more amusing than serious and quickly we were then ushered through to the boat.
There we were told a quick story about where we were then going and then told to get onto the boat. The boat was quite big for such a small 'river'. Once we were all in we started to move through the doors into this tiny room were it was pitch black. This was actually the scariest bit for me just because I couldn't see anything. Things were hanging from the ceiling and you would feel it in your hair and face which was then met by a few screams from people in the boat.
The boat the stopped and there was talking which I am more than sure we were meant to listen to but unfortunately I was unable to hear from all the laughing and screaming on the boat. There was a flash of light and you could see what looked like dead bodies with blood everywhere.
Once this was over the boat slowly moved on to the next part of the tour. We all got out and were greeted by another scary character who led us to her room where she talked about how she killed people like her husband. Again it was more amusing than scary.
Finally she threw a strop which led to us being shoved into another room where there was a surgeon who showed us autopsy's and pulled out very realistic parts from a dead body. There was then what looked to me like yellow water squirted from the desk at everyone.
Again we were moved on to another room for a bit of information about Robert the Bruce and finally we were taken to the last ride.
This ride was optional and I decided that I wasn't going to take part in it but James was. So I went through to watch from another room and watched as everyone was led to the ride and strapped in.
The lights were again turned off and then put back on once the ride was raised to the roof to make sure everyone on the ride knew just how high they were. Again lights went off and the ride plummeted to the ground with one flash for the camera.
A lot of people said it was scary with others saying it wasn't so bad. I'm just glad I didn't go on the ride.
That was the tour over and the last room was where all the pictures from the start and from the ride were shown on screen. The people that had said were ok on the ride actually looked pretty scared on the photos and maybe didn't realise they had a photo taken so could pretend they were ok with it.
We didn't buy our photo so I'm afraid I can't tell you how much the photos cost but I can probably guess that they would be expensive due to how much the entrance fee was.
You then get a lift which takes you to the gift shop and through the gift shop to the exit.
Overall Opinion
I really enjoyed my visit to the dungeons. Although it wasn't too scary for me (apart from when it was really dark in the boat) it was still an extremely enjoyable experience and I'm glad that I went. I would say that £15 per adult is over-priced so try and book online before you go.
Staff in dungeons really get into being their character which makes the visit fantastic. They make the experience what it is and I don't think it would be as popular if it wasn't for them.
Try and get a day without teenagers, I felt that some of the tour was ruined because I Wasn't able to hear what was going on with the group giggling and chatting throughout the whole thing.
Extra Info
There is a height restriction at the entrance so if the children are too small you will be refused entrance.
You cannot take pictures whilst in there so there's no point taking a camera or video camera with you.
The tour lasted just over an hour so do make sure you know that you'll be in there for a while and it won't be a quick run through of everything. The staff can't make the tour go any quicker and spoil it for the rest of the people on tour so make sure you are prepared for this
There are dungeons in other areas which are run by the same company. Have a look on the website to see if there are any near you as I do really think they are worth the visit even if it's just the once.
For those of you who love audience participation experiences at then all you need to know is that this place is absolutely perfect for you from start to finish.
However I felt quite sullied by the whole experience, the long queues, the high entry prices, the fact that I couldn't leave my bag anywhere and my fiance nearly decked an employee (actually, that was the high point).
We bought our tickets at the Tourist Information Centre which gave us a discount of £5 per person and there were two of us, so with £10 off we paid £19.90 for our run through the dungeon. Now this did include priority (fast track) entry to the dungeon, considering it took us over a half hour of queuing to get in, I can only imagine how much it must suck having to go the long route.
If you intend going to the dungeon then the next several paragraphs contain spoilers so read it at your own risk/ discretion.
Once we had our picture taken in the stocks (not optional) we were lead into a waiting room where we waited 15 minutes before being herded into the "court room" of the "Witch Finder General". After a fairly boring 2 tiered (men and women) witch trial we were taken to be "tortured" in the torture chamber, after a demonstration of the implements we were sent to hunt for the cannibal family of Sawney Bean out in their caves to gain ourselves a stay of execution. However as our boat got turned about and went the wrong way we were "welcomed" into the home of the Beans and one of his sons told us about themselves and why they lived up there and how they lived, then his family came home with a "meal" for the whole family, but before the preparation was started King Jimmy VI's soldiers showed up and we had to leave.
We "fled" onward into a doctor's anatomy lab where we were witness to an "autopsy" with authentic sprays of "lukewarm urine" and bodies coming back to life due to demonic possession. We were then rushed through to Mary Kings Close, the resting ground of many plague victims and the ghost of Mary King herself can be heard to wail "I'll see thee in hell" just as she did the night she was killed by being thrown into the house of her relatives who had died of the plague. After rushing on away from the ghost we were met by one who fought at the side of William Wallace and who told us of his demise.
Following this we went onward and were sentenced to hang (This is the drop ride). Then at last we went through the catacombs (mirrored maze) and were left out to the photography sales desk, the only exit from which is a very slow to arrive elevator, which leads, surprise surprise, to the gift shop.
Throughout the entire experience there were people trying to get you involved, especially if you looked like you weren't enjoying yourself/didn't want any involvement in the show which is, to my mind completely idiotic but be that as it may the overall experience was fine. A bit longwinded and forced in places, like a good idea thats not been followed up very well and could be excellent with a bit more effort and thought.
The drop ride was optional, and those with back problems, expectant mothers or small children are advised to sit it out. To be honest the children under about 10 were absolutely bawling their eyes out, and if I was pregnant (unlikely since I have outie not innie reproductive organs!) there is no way on earth I'd be going to something so terrifying for fear for the baby and my blood pressure!
For the price I don't think it is worth it, even with the discount from the Tourist Information Centre, but I won't say that I didn't enjoy myself at all because while I wouldn't go back, it wasn't totally boring. I was mildly entertained for the hourish I was in there.
So to conclude I guess it could be worth the visit if you enjoy spooks and but for my money I would rather have gone to the whiskey experience up the hill, and next time I'm in Edinburgh I probably will.
I went to the Edinburgh Dungeon yesterday and I have to say, I thoroughly enjoyed the experience. Having already been to both the London and York Dungeons, I knew sort of what to expect, but if anything that made the visit more enjoyable, and did not spoil it at all.
This Dungeon includes some of the same chambers as the other Dungeons, such as the court room, the anatomy theatre and the torture chamber, and it also has more site specific chambers, such as Mary King's Ghost and the lair of the cannibalistic Sawney Bean.
The live actors and special effects are spectacular, truely making the gruesome history come to life. The actors are never out of character when in costume, making the experience extremely authentic.
This dungeon has two rides, a pitch black boat ride into Sawney Beans lair that is absolutely terrifying and a drop ride designed on the hangings that took place in Edinburgh. This ride is so realistic, it is undescribable, you will never have been on a ride quite like it in your life. You do have to remove all loose items including glasses though, so if you have the choice between contact lenses and glasses that day like me, choose lenses as not being able to see the video before the drop did ruin the ride a bit I think.
My only critisisms would be the heat in there, as when they are talking about the grusome things in the torture chamber, it can make you feel a bit faint, and the heat doesn't help.
Also, their hall of mirrors was not up to scratch I feel personally, I walked straight through with no problem at all. Definately not up to par with the other Dungeons.
Overall, this is a terrific attraction to visit, one of the better dungeons I think, as I have now been to all three on the english-speaking ones. I personally think that they dungeons are such good attractions, I may even visit the ones in Hamburg and Amsterdam, despite the language barrier!
You will probably have to queue for about and hour to get in, but trust me, the time just flies by with anticipation, and it is definately worth the wait. It will take you about an hour and a quarter to go round the attraction, but times may vary, so I would advise you to allow at least 3 hours for your visit.
This is an excellent, definately worth-while attraction and you won't regret the visit! I promise.
Having read some reviews here on Dooyoo one of the attractions that I wanted to visit whilst I was in Edinburgh was the Edinburgh Dungeons. On our final day in the city that is exactly what we did.
Now I am going to tell you a bit about it but I am going to try and be careful not to spoil the experience for any of you who have not yet been so if my descriptions seem a bit sketchy at times trust me it is for the best. Had I have known exactly what to expect the experience would not have been as good! Those of you who have already visited will know what I mean.
I had visited York Dungeons many years ago and had walked around looking at a few waxwork exhibits and found the whole thing boring and a waste of money so I was intrigued to know how Edinburgh was going to differ from this. By the way the one at York may well have changed by now - it was in the 1980's when I went!
This attraction is very handy as it is located in the city centre just behind Waverley Station.
The Price
The prices on the door are £13.85 for adults, £12.95 for students, £10.95 for OAPs and £9.95 for children. For obvious reasons the dungeon is not suitable for very young children and parents must be responsible and make a judgement as to whether the children are 'grown up' enough to enjoy the experience. Children under 14 must be accompanied by an adult.
If you know when you want to visit the dungeon you can save up to 50% if you pre book on line, although you have to book at least one day in advance. Sadly ours was a spontaneous thing so we paid full price.
Special Arrangements
The dungeon can be hired for birthday parties, corporate events or school trips - full details are available on the website.
The dungeons are accessible to wheelchair users.
Opening Times
The full range of opening times is available on the website at www.thedungeons.com but generally it is open from about 10am until 5pm with longer opening hours in peak season and at Halloween. It is open seven days a week and only closed on Christmas day.
There are toilets available before you go into the dungeon - maybe that is so that you don't have an accident when you're scared later on! Seriously though the toilets are nice and clean but have red paint splattered everywhere so it looks like there's been a massacre in there! LOL!
When you first go in you will be asked to pose for the customary photograph with one of you in the stocks and the other holding the executioners 'axe' above your head. The photograph is then ready to view and purchase if required at the end of your visit.
You then pay or show your prepayment pass at the ticket booth and are offered the chance to buy a guide a book - as with all these places they are ready to get you to part with your hard earned cash! We didn't buy a guide book and it would have been pretty useless in the dingy interior anyway!
You are then asked to wait in the outer area of the courtroom for your tour to start. The tour will last between one and one and a half hours and the tours start approximately every seven minutes in peak times.
The Rides
If you look at the website in the FAQ section you will see reference to the rides in the dungeon - don't get excited there's only one and if you blink you'll miss it. At one point you will board a boat which carries about 24 people but it only travels about 10 yards!
You do also pass through a maze of mirrors at one point which is quite fun.
The Dungeons
Well as I say I am not going to spoil the experience by going into too much detail here. The whole thing is interactive and designed to give you a fright and also to make you laugh. Before you go in there is a notice reminding you that you are not allowed to touch any member of the staff but the reverse is also true - they are not allowed to touch you either so bear that in mind if you are getting scared!
You will be collected from the waiting area to begin the tour after jumping out of skin but I won't say why or you'll be expecting it!
The tour is split into various sections. The courtroom was entertaining if a bit predictable, but it gets you into the mindset of the tour. The information about William Wallace was delivered by an impassioned Scot so I am sorry, I didn't actually catch much of what he said. You will learn about an autopsy, the story of Mary King and Sawney Bean. The torture chamber was a scream - I'll leave you to find out quite how I mean that!
Added to the fright element you also learn a bit about Edinburgh's more gory history from the various guides.
That's as much detail as I am giving at this point.
The End
Guess where the tour comes out? Aw you guessed! That's right the gift shop - after passing the place where you can purchase your photograph of course! To be fair the prices in the gift shop were OK and, since my Goddaughter in going through a Goth phase, I was able to get her a pair of fingerless gloves for £2.99 and a great tie with skeletons on for her dad for £4.99.
My Thoughts
Well I was pleased that we had visited the dungeon as it was on my wish list so to speak, but I do think it was a bit overpriced for what it was. Some parts were a bit naff but most of it was really good and certainly made me jump more than once! I would have said that a price tag of £10 would be more reasonable though. Obviously the answer to that one is to plan ahead and buy your tickets online and save a lot of money!
It is the sort of place that having been once I wouldn't bother to go again as I would know what to expect and it wouldn't be as much fun.
In conclusion I would recommend it as the excellent bits outweighed the lesser bits so a thumbs up from me!
Obviously if you are afraid of the dark, claustrophobic or of a really nervous disposition maybe a walk round the castle would be a better option! LOL!
I went to the Edinburgh dungeons on the 19th of June. I went with a few friends and all I can say to that is... Thank god I never went alone!!!
The atmosphere is pretty bone-chilling and when you enter, you see loads of signs saying that you will go in, but never get back out. Well that IS true in a way... You don't come out the front entrance anyway!
On entrance I was pretty freaked out! There is fake blood on the walls and an enormous axe swinging on the wall, and there were also some fake candles, hung around in some of the corners. There is hardly any light and then you are taken to a little passageway. In there, there are some small wooden doors and a few windows. Also there is a sign that says Flesh Market swinging above your head. There is little light in this room too except from a little red one. The long wait kind of spoilt my visit and when we eventually went through, all we saw some wax, bloody corpses.
Then we were taken to a room with a stock. One of my friends was told to go and put their head in the middle head part. Then I was asked to get a reaper axe, like the ones that executioners used, and stand over her, as if I was going to chop off her head. Then our picture was taken and we were shown to the door outside the tollbooth court. We were told to wait for a while and then loads of chains started rattling!!! We all got such a fright! Then the judge came in with a pale white face and a blood gash on her face.She then accused me of witchcraft and my friends to being the phantom farters.
Then we had to go through to another room. I think it was William Wallace (or as I like to call him, Wallace the Bruce (: ) that was there. And then it was the great fire of Edinburgh. With an optical illusion that made it look like the floor was moving.
A while on, you will be taken into an autopsy room. This has a new 'surgeon' that will be performing a live autopsy and he shall choose someone from his audience to help him. He will also tell you about Burke and Hare. Two murderers that find bodies to perform live autopsies on.
Later on, we were taken onto a boat ride that goes so slow that you could walk quicker. When you are on the boat, you can see nothing except blackness and you get little dribbles of water that land on you and little feathery bits that will tickle your face. You then have to get out of the boat and into the Sawney Bean residence.
Sawney Bean was a mad cannibal that had small ponytails. His trophies are mostly heads of his victims. He will start to tell you about cannibalism and about his brothers that go and get the supper. he also tells you about what happens when his family comes for dinner. Then he tells you that he prefers the eyeballs of a person and he went right up to one of my friends and tried to get her to give up her eyes!!
In around 10 minutes he will tell you to get out as the kings men will be coming to get him. Then you will arrive in the torturers room, she picks someone from the audience to come up on the torture chair and then you will be shown the tongue clipper, then the Judas Cradle.
These were the torturers exact words. You would be put into a metal brace and hoisted up 6 feet in the air. Then weights were added, to dislocate your legs. Then you were dropped, genitals first, onto a pointy bit of wood. Usually, when you dropped, you would be lucky enough not to feel a thing and be none the wiser, but if you survived, IF, then you would be put into a 5 or so foot cage, and into the middle of the town for people to throw things at you.
Then we were informed about the butchers hook, this would be put into your mouth, and then ripped up, severing the roof of your mouth, and eventually ripping out your brain. Then we were told to get out within 10 seconds (charming!) or we would be kept and she would give us a demonstration, of how hese torture things were really used.
Then we went into the gift shop. This was extortionately priced and also pretty rubbish. You could buy a small slush puppy, for £1. And a deck of cards was £3.50! I got a small slush and filled out a survey that would get you a free badge.
I would NOT recommend taking children younger than 10 years old here as it does have some scary bits. But then again I am not in charge of any of your children or anything so do as you like. (No, seriously, do what you like! I don't mind!!!)
Pretty scary with good history on Edinburgh not such a good day out for the claustrophobic, the easily scared, or anyone who doesn't like being in the dark.
(note. Edited on 27th june 2008 for easier reading, thanks helencb!)


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Guiseley 2 Stockport County 0
Guiseley continued their late push for a play-off place in the Conference North with a comfortable home win over Stockport County.
The visitors were held up by traffic problems and the kick-off was twice delayed, finally getting underway at 8.15pm.
The Lions got the all-important opening goal when Jake Lawlor controlled the ball inside the area before drilling in a shot.
Guiseley's Kevin Holsgrove had chances either side of the interval but the first was off target while the second brought a good save out of keeper Jan Osman.
Osman was beaten again, however, by Wayne Brooksby late in the second half, which ensured the Lions banked all three points ahead of the return clash at Edgeley Park on Saturday.
The victory lifted Mark Bower's men back into the top ten and they are now just six points off the play-off zone with games in hand on many of their promotion rivals.

subset: commoncrawl


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Adapted from a recent online discussion.
Dear Carolyn:
My husband's brother has four kids under 10.
They are all sweet kids, really. But they talk back, don't listen, don't take "no" for an answer, and seek out trouble for attention. Conversations are interrupted, and we spend a good portion of the visit listening to their parents saying "no" over and over, repeating instructions, negotiating, yelling, and making idle threats.
My husband and I have decided it's OK to just handle it without their parents if bad behavior is directed toward us. We've also started seeing less of them because their family dynamics are unpleasant.
Should we say something to the parents (which will probably be taken badly because we don't have any kids ourselves)?
-- In-Laws
What would be your intention in saying something -- to explain your pulling away? To wake them up to their parental failings? To improve them? To register your disapproval?
Their household sounds more chaotic than necessary, but I won't bother trying to figure out how much chaos is unavoidable with four under 10, and how much of your opinion is affected by your not having kids of your own. I can't call these accurately without being there.
Fortunately, the conversation can stop at "What do you hope to accomplish?" I just don't see any benefit to your speaking up -- for them, for you, or for family peace. Best just to hang on, at arm's length if needed, till the kids/parents outgrow this phase.
* * *
Re: Chaotic Family:
You might want to ask them whether the kids are always this hyped up, or is it a function of going outside their normal schedule (well-known phenomenon). Ask them if they consider the kids' behavior an issue, what they've done to address, etc.
You might find out a whole lot by asking them their view, rather than telling them yours. It also gives you about the only avenue to discuss the idle threats.
-- Anonymous
This might seem sensitive and sensible on paper, but I've been there, with my own kids as the maniacs. Even knowing the misbehavior stemmed partly from being off their routine and partly from my failings as a parent, and knowing there is often value in outside perspectives, I can say with confidence that if you started asking me these questions, it would take all my earthly strength not to tell you to shove it.
I stand by my advice to leave it alone. "In-Laws" are entitled to set boundaries when they interact with these kids, but it's otherwise none of their business how the kids are being raised, short of abuse or neglect.
* * *
Re: Family:
I sympathize. We took the tack you suggested, but it's been frustrating. It's almost impossible in these settings to have a real conversation. We've really curtailed our time at family events because of this, and his family now thinks we're standoffish. Is there a middle way?
-- Anonymous 2
Sure -- minimize your daytime exposure by finding day trips, running errands, etc., and be at your most present after kiddie bedtime.
If you have a history of being involved and patient with the kids, you're also in good standing to ask for adult time directly. If these parents are touchy, though, it's best just to ride it out.
- - -
The author is an advice columnist for the Washington Post. Email firstname.lastname@example.com, follow her on Facebook at www.facebook.com/carolyn.hax or chat with her online at noon Eastern time each Friday at www.washingtonpost.com.


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Topic: Scan Results
Today's scan results showed "stable disease" according to my oncologist. That's pretty darn good news as far as I can see. I haven't read the scan report yet for myself, so I'll take his word on it for now.
To summarize for newbies - I have a Klatskin tumor approximately 2-3 cm. One branch of the tumor is wrapped around my IVC. Diagnosed Aug 2007 and given 2-3 weeks to live. Radiation. Chemotherapy. Failed resection in March 2008. Lung metastasis Feb 09. Retired April 09.
Lots and lots of prayer and trust in God.
And I'm still here.


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PAUL COYLEAffiliation:
The rock band Coyle ,the fusion group The 21st Century East Coast Jazz Guerrillas.I have been a teacher,perfomer and clinician.
Artist's BiographyPaul�s love of music began in the second grade playing an old, metal Conn Clarinet. His clarinet skills were developed through school lessons and band. The instrument of choice,however, was always a saxophone.
At age 12, his Dad, a small combo pianist, brought home a tenor sax two days before New Year�s Eve. As he handed the sax to Paul (along with a pile of music), he said, �Learn the tenor! You�re playing New Year�s Eve!� It seemed his regular tenor man was sick! The gig was great and a life-long love of the sax was born. A year later, Paul played rock tenor on a top 40 rock hit!
During high school and college, Paul played back-up for many of the period�s top rock and rhythm and blues stars in the greater New York metro area.
While enrolled at Quincy College in Illinois, Paul studied with Bob Koper, former lead bassoonist with the United States Marine Band. Among the students in the Quincy music program at that time, was James Pankow, famed Chicago trombonist. At this time, Paul went from playing tenor to alto and soprano. He also switched from a Mark VI Tenor to Mark VI Alto and Mark VI soprano.
He continued to play with rock and roll groups, R & B, and small jazz groups all over the Midwest. When Paul left Quincy College, he did some extensive touring and completed college at Berklee in Boston, Massachusetts. He studied sax with the great teacher/artist, Joe Viola, and played the flute during that time as well.
The intervening years have been a whirlwind of concerts, recording sessions, clinics, keeping small groups working, and teaching. Paul has also composed music for several television projects throughout the years, a ballet, as well as for his own musical group. Throughout this time, he has played everything from rock, fusion and blues, to be bop! What alto player doesn�t?
Paul�s personal mantra is, �A day without practicing is like a day without breathing.�
He currently plays on a Mark VII Alto, Super Action 80 Model II Alto, Mark VI Soprano and Emerson Boston Legacy Flute.
Paul Coyle Selmer Saxophone Artist 612 Middle Street, Middletown, CT 06457 C: 860-685-1666


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Votto sends game to extras, Reds fall in 10th inning
Cingrani strikes out nine in second Major League start
CINCINNATI -- Even though it wasn't so visible at the time on Monday night after a thrilling comeback win over the Cubs in the 13th inning, there was a downside lurking for the Reds from that game.
It was a depleted bullpen that became exposed when extra innings came once again on Tuesday. Hence, lefty Manny Parra found himself getting a second inning of work in the 10th inning that he normally wouldn't get. Parra gave up two runs and four hits in the Reds' 4-2 loss to the Cubs, and Darwin Barney's solo homer was the go-ahead run.
"We had to stick with Manny. Manny was our only guy," Reds manager Dusty Baker said. "Ordinarily, he wouldn't have been out there that second time. He threw a great [ninth] inning before. He made a mistake on Barney. He was trying to go outside and came inside on the home run."
Trailing 2-1 in the bottom of the ninth, the Reds rallied as Cubs starter Carlos Villanueva attempted to pitch a complete game. Shin-Soo Choo reached for the third time on the night with a leadoff walk and went to second base on a Zack Cozart sacrifice bunt.
Chicago called on Carlos Marmol to face Joey Votto, who was 1-for-15 with nine strikeouts lifetime against the right-hander -- including a strikeout on Monday. Votto won this battle, as his single through the middle scored Choo with the tying run. Marmol would walk two more batters to load the bases with two outs, but he escaped to force extras.
"You can't get 'em all. I wish we could battle like that every inning," Frazier said. "It was tough. It's one of those things that when you get runners on and don't get many opportunities, you have to do something with it. I had an opportunity to drive a run in or get on base with one out [in the seventh] and got a double play turned on me."
Parra returned for the 10th and after getting the first out, his 2-1 offering to Barney was pulled to left field for a homer.
"I think it was good for us," said Barney, who is batting .148 this season. "Obviously, it was nice to get an RBI. No one was in scoring position -- I'm probably like 0-for-1,000 in that situation. It feels good to contribute on that side of the field for sure."
Pinch-hitter Julio Borbon bounced a ball in front of the plate for a base hit and went to second base as catcher Corky Miller's throw hit the runner's back for an error. Borbon stole third base and scored on Dave Sappelt's single into center field before Starlin Castro walked.
In limited action for the Reds, Parra hasn't fared well at all. In six appearances, he has an 8.10 ERA with 15 hits and three walks over 6 2/3 innings. He was signed to a one-year, $1 million contract in January and made the club out of camp despite a shaky Spring Training. His roster spot could be tenuous as an opening will be needed when fellow lefty Sean Marshall is activated from the disabled list, which could likely happen later this week.
Cincinnati almost repeated Monday's 13th-inning comeback effort during the bottom half of the 10th inning Tuesday. Pinch-hitter Xavier Paul lined a one-out single to right field against Kevin Gregg, and Choo followed with a rolling single into left field to put the tying run on first base with one out. Votto returned with two outs and dueled for nine pitches before reaching outside for a strike-three swing that ended it.
"We really couldn't go much further than the 10th even if we tied it up," Baker said. "We have a quite a few days to go before we get an off-day. We're playing a tough team after these guys. That's how you get upside down with your bullpen and it usually starts a losing streak. We've got four against the Nationals and then we've got three against the Cardinals. You certainly can't go in there with an upside-down bullpen."
In his second big league start for the Reds, Tony Cingrani fared well overall as he gave up two runs and five hits over seven innings. The left-hander did not walk a batter and struck out nine.
"I was a lot more comfortable. The tempo was a little bit slower to me, so it was good," Cingrani said. "I was trying to make first pitches and make sure I was getting ahead of people. I wasn't really thinking too much about trying to throw a complete game or anything. I was just trying to give them a good quality start."
Through the first nine games of the 10-game homestand, Reds starters have posted 1.71 ERA and have yet to allow more than two runs in any game. Eight of the nine outings have been quality starts, with Cingrani's five-inning debut on Thursday being the lone exception.
Mark Sheldon is a reporter for MLB.com. Read his blog, Mark My Word, and follow him on Twitter @m_sheldon This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.


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Move over M.U.S.C.L.E., the Outlandish Mini Figure Guys are here...
To insure your action figure collection, get in touch with Collectibles Insurance, the official insurance company of the Figures.com network. Say "Figures.com" to get 5% off your first term premiums.
To buy action figures, take a look at BigBadToyStore.com, RedfordFilms.com, BriansToys.com, ToyWiz.com, SmallJoes.com, MonkeyDepot.com, and Urban-Collector.com.
If you were a kid that grew up in the '80s, chances are really good that you collected, or at least heard of, M.U.S.C.L.E. The small (usually) pink figures that resembled rubber erasers featured a vast array of exotic characters of mutants and monsters. I never invested too heavily in the line, but I owned a few, and it was always a blast going over to my friend's house to admire and trade these bizarre little collectibles.
Last year, small toy company October Toys tapped the retro nostalgia of M.U.S.C.L.E. with a new series called O.M.F.G.! While the acronym immediately calls to mind risque netspeak, it actually stands for Outlandish Mini Figure Guys. Catchy!
OMFG! originated in the October Toys/ ToyBreak forums inviting fans to submit character designs they'd like to see in the first assortment. From 40 crazy concepts submitted from across the globe, the group whittled the selection down to the very best 5. These include the figures up for review today:
* Multiskull - designed and sculpted by Charles Marsh (aka Monsterforge) from South Carolina
* Crawdad Kid - designed and sculpted by Daniel Yu (aka Dory) from Singapore
* Phantom Outhouse - designed by Kyle Thye from Iowa and sculpted by Ralph Niese from Germany
* King Castor - designed and sculpted by Dominic Campisi (aka The Evil Earwig) from California
* Stroll - designed by John "Spanky" Stokes from California and sculpted by George Gaspar from California (co-owner of October Toys)
With the character designs picked for the first series, sculpting got underway. Several months later, all that remained was production and manufacturing. Using the online funding platform Kickstarter, October Toys once again asked fans for their help in making OMFG! a reality. I caught wind of this project late last summer, right towards the end, around when October Toys was close to reaching their monetary goal. While I was immediately drawn to these retro-cool figure designs, it was the attractive incentives that spurred me on to donating. For just $10 I was guaranteed one set of five (5) flesh colored OMFG! Series 1 mini figures... and a sticker (I actually received a mini-poster and bookmark too)! That in itself was a bargain, but the fact that I helped launch this ingenious toy line was the real reward.
As for the figures themselves: You either love 'em or hate' em. For me, M.U.S.C.L.E. nostalgia certainly plays a part. I simply admire their small, simplistic collectible charm. Actually, "simplistic" is probably the wrong word. While yes, these do lack elaborate paint apps and articulation, their sculpts are surprisingly complex for such tiny toys. Two of my favorite characters, Multiskull and King Castor, certainly reflect this the most with their sharp and intricate lines. Just look at all dem bones! They are all such fun designs, from the silly potty humor of the Phantom Outhouse to the more serious (just a tad) crustacean soldier concept of Crawdad Kid.
OMFG! Series 1 in the original pink color scheme just shipped to all those that helped fund the project. For those that missed out, many alternate colors can be had exclusively at the following websites:
* Green - LittleRubberGuys.com Exclusive
* Blue (312c) - Rotofugi.com Exclusive
* Yellow - UofMuscle.bigcartel.com Exclusive
* Pheyden Blue - OnellDesign.com Exclusive - (Sold Out)
And don't forget to submit a design for OMFG! Series 2! Join in the fun at octobertoys.com/forum.
Review and Photos by Jeff Saylor


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M&M Cookies to Celebrate Valentine's Day
Hubby and I don't usually celebrate Valentine's Day. I'm not sure how that happened, but we're both ok with it. We usually just have a nice dinner at home and some wine. No gifts, no fancy restaurants, just chillin. Even though we don't get all romantic and mushy on Valentine's day, I do love to bake for this holiday.
You see, my three favorite colors are red, pink, and purple. I love them all almost equally, but if I had to rank them, it'd be red first, then purple, then pink. Not pastel pink, a good hearty dark-hot-pink – like the dark pink M&Ms in the Valentine's Day color combo. One of the reasons I love baking for Valentine's day is that I'll most likely be making something with one of my favorite colors. Last year I made red velvet cupcakes that I took to work. This year, I happened to grab a bag of Valentine's Day M&Ms while I was at the store the other day.
I have a soft spot for holiday colored M&Ms. Not sure why, but I just love them. So I set out to make some M&M cookies. Now I've already made two versions – regular M&M cookies and chocolate M&M cookies. Both were great, but I always prefer to try new recipes.
I whipped up this batch of cookies last weekend, but didn't want to have cookies in the house, so I baked up a dozen and froze the rest. The dozen that I baked went with me to a food photography seminar – which I still need to blog about (check out Elina's or Kerstin's recap).
To freeze the cookies, I just rolled them out as if I was going to bake them. Then I put them on a cake pan lined with waxed paper and threw them into the freezer. Once they were frozen, I put them all into a ziplock bag. These frozen cookies are going to some friends who just had a baby. That way the new parents can bake a couple cookies at a time for some instant comfort.
M&M Cookies
Yield: ~3 dozen
1 c brown sugar
1/2 c sugar
1 c shortening
2 eggs
1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
2 1/2 c flour
1 tsp baking soda
1 tsp salt
1 1/2 c M&Ms
Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
In a large bowl, mix sugar, eggs, shortening, and vanilla thoroughly. Add flour, salt, and baking soda to creamed mixture. Blend well. Add 3/4 cup of M&M candies.
Portion out some dough using a cookie scoop. Using your hands, roll into a small ball and place on cookie sheet. Slightly push a few candies on top of each dough ball with remaining candies.
Bake for 9 to 11 minutes. (13-15 if taking straight out of the freezer).
Recipe from Allrecipes.com
17 Responses to "M&M Cookies to Celebrate Valentine's Day"
I love freezing dough but somehow most ends up in my tummy unbaked when I do that 🙂
What a great gift! I'm thinking that would be wonderful for all sorts of occasions. Thanks for the idea!
These are adorable and I love that idea! Two questions, though: 1) Were these as good as the cookies from the other recipes? and 2) When you freeze them, do you bake right from frozen?
Great questions Carly – As far as comparing them to the other cookies. I enjoyed the chocolate M&M cookies the best, but they were REALLY chocolatey. The other non-chocolate M&M cookies were a bit more chewy and they had nuts in them, so they had a different vibe. This recipe was more of a classic M&M cookie for sure.
As far as baking from frozen, you can def just go straight from freezer to oven. Bake them ~13 minutes instead of ~11 and take them out when they look done.
these were delicious!
they look so cute all frozen up 🙂
I love the pink and red M&Ms. Thanks for the idea of freezing the cookie dough.
I was going to ask you the same thing as Carly, well the first question. These cookies are cute. Your freezing method reminded me that I have a bunch of sugar cookies still in the freezer! Do you know how long cookies can stay in the freezer?
I don't know how long they will last in the freezer. I have a tendency to forget about things in my freezer… I'd guess a couple months? Anyone have ideas?
What festive little cookies 🙂 I love them! I also like the fact that you froze them. I bet they were delicious. Make sure to enter the All Through the Year Cheer event for Valentine's Day 🙂
I think that sounds like a great way to spend valentine's day. It can be intimidating the way it's so hyped up. The cookies look very festive, love 'em!
We don't do "valentine's day" either since my MIL was born on the 14th and daughter's birthday is the 15th – besides, its more important to say you love someone everyday, not just one day out of the year. Love the idea about freezing the cookie dough in preshaped form and giving that away. Wonderful idea!
I am looking for cookies that travel well for my soldier adopted through Soldier's Angels and these look like a winner!!
Mmm, these were so tasty! Happy Valentine's Day!
These are just too cute!! I love M&M cookies too!!
Just had to add my two cents on the idea of giving cookie dough frozen and ready to be baked – genius! For some reason, I've never thought of that, even though I've given cookies frozen to people to be defrosted when they're ready to eat. I love the dough idea!
YUM-these look absolutely delicious! I love the pink and red M&Ms!


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Brother Alex Smith Gospel
Showtime: Every Sunday, 9-11 a.m.
The Host: Alex Smith
Alex Smith says that he is "too blessed to be stressed." Smith, who wants to give back to others as God has blessed him, has served as the host of the Evelyn Brown Spiritual since 2000. For more than 20 years he has worked with Evelyn Brown promoting gospel music and introducing gospel to the Alliance area. Since the inception of the Evelyn Brown Spiritual in 1969, the show has grown to a national audience. Smith, a member at Second Baptist Church in Alliance, has been involved with the Baptist Church for over 40 years, including being the church's soundman, custodian and a trustee. He is married to Helen and has 12 children.
Since receiving a heart transplant in 1991, Smith has been dedicated to keeping the show alive.
"I love the Lord and enjoy doing his work," said Smith. "Our radio show has touched so many people and I really enjoy doing it. It is a gift you take to the people and can minister to anyone around the country."
The Program Overview
|9 a.m.
|Opening Theme
"Radio Angels" by The Christianaires
Announcements, get well messages and prayer will be given throughout the program. (Call-ins welcome anytime)
Gospel Music
|Closing Theme
We Come A Long Way" by Debra Snipes
Contact Information
Email: email@example.com
Phone: (330) 823-2414 or (330) 823-3777
Fax: (330) 829-2414
Listen LIVE every Sunday morning!


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Events and TripsEach season the society runs a full programme of trips and events. Details will be posted here as and when information is available. View the calendar and click on the event to get further details. We will also keep you informed via the monthly e-newsletter. If you are not on the mailing list for the e-newsletter and would like to receive this, just email a request to firstname.lastname@example.com. Please note that priority is given to Members but non-members are welcome if space is available. A non-refundable deposit will be taken at the time of booking. To complement the trips this season we will be holding:
- Our annual Christmas Lunch on Friday, 9th December 2016 at the Octógono Beach Club in Sotogrande
- Our Young Artists' Competition in April 2017
- Our Arts and Crafts event 'Feasting on Art' in June 2017
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Sign into our member site to view your information online.Forget your username or password? Not registered? Register here
carmustine (generic name)
It is used to treat glioma and glioblastoma
(kar MUS teen)
Table of Contents
Top Learning Centers(Recursos en Español)
What is this medicine?CARMUSTINE, BCNU (kar MUS teen) is a chemotherapy drug. It is used to treat glioma and glioblastoma. The wafers are placed at a site where a brain tumor used to be, at the end of a surgery to remove the tumor.
What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
How should I use this medicine?This drug is placed into the space made when a tumor is removed. It is administered during surgery in a hospital.
Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.
What if I miss a dose?This does not apply.
What may interact with this medicine?Interactions are not expected.
What should I watch for while using this medicine?Visit your doctor for checks on your progress. You will need to have regular blood work. Report any side effects.
In some cases, you may be given additional medicines to help with side effects. Follow all directions for their use.
Call your doctor or health care professional for advice if you get a fever, chills or sore throat, or other symptoms of a cold or flu. Do not treat yourself. This drug decreases your body's ability to fight infections. Try to avoid being around people who are sick.
Avoid taking products that contain aspirin, acetaminophen, ibuprofen, naproxen, or ketoprofen unless instructed by your doctor. These medicines may hide a fever.
Do not become pregnant while taking this medicine. Women should inform their doctor if they wish to become pregnant or think they might be pregnant. There is a potential for serious side effects to an unborn child. Talk to your health care professional or pharmacist for more information. Do not breast-feed an infant while taking this medicine.
What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
Where should I keep my medicine?This drug is given in a hospital and will not be stored at home.
Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.


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By Public Relations |
February 14, 2008
Bethel College is pleased to announce the development of the family studies minor, which will begin enrollment in Fall 2008.
The family studies minor is an interdisciplinary approach to various aspects of family life throughout the life cycle. Coursework will include topics of dating and courtship, interpersonal communication, engagement and marriage, parenting, human sexuality and family stressors. The program will provide an expansive area of study appropriate for a variety of majors.
These courses will enable students to apply classroom content to personal relationships.
For more information, contact Dr. Robert Daniels, associate professor of sociology, at 574.257.3373 or firstname.lastname@example.com.
Bethel College is an accredited Christian college of the arts and sciences offering associates, bachelor's and master's degrees in more than 50 areas of study. The current enrollment of more than 2,000 includes students from 34 states and Puerto Rico, 12 countries, more than 25 denominations and 16 percent from culturally diverse backgrounds. Scholarships are available based upon a variety of factors including academic achievement, talent in the arts or athletics, ethnicity and church affiliation. Bethel offers classes at four locations: the Mishawaka campus, the Elkhart Campus and two satellite locations (in Nappanee and in Dowagiac, Mich.). The main Bethel campus is situated on 75 wooded acres in Mishawaka, Ind.


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West Yorkshire Chief Constable Mark Gilmore was today suspended by the county's Police and Crime Commissioner in connection with an investigation in Northern Ireland.
Mr Gilmore served in Northern Ireland earlier in his career before being appointed chief officer in West Yorkshire early in 2013.
West Yorkshire Police and Crime Commissioner Mark Burns-Williamson said: "The reason for the suspension is as a result of information I have received from the Police Service of Northern Ireland arising from an investigation announced earlier this week."
Deputy Chief Constable Dee Collins has been appointed Acting Chief Constable until the investigation is complete.
She said: "People should feel reassured that day-to-day service is unaffected."
The Independent Police Complaints Commission has also been made aware of the situation.


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Dons boss Neal Ardley wants the boo-boys to lay off Charlie Sheringham after the striker bagged his first goal of the season.
The 25-year-old's toe-poke triggered a comeback at Newport County on Tuesday night that ended a run of four League Two games with a win.
Fellow substitute Kevin Sainte-Luce also hit his first of the season to seal a last-gasp 2-1 turnaround in south Wales – although his strike was more howitzer than toe-poke.
Sainte-Luce's superb strike was apt, as it brought up the Dons' 1,000th goal.
Sheringham's Dons career has been blighted by injury since he joined as a free agent after being realised by AFC Bournemouth.
The former Tottenham Hotspur trainee has made just 13 appearances this season without scoring, but now he can put a tick in the goals column.
Ardley said: "Charlie has been training exceptionally well.
"I know some fans have not taken to him, not given him a chance and made up their minds before he kicked a ball, but I am chuffed for him. I know he is a good player.
"What the fans say can be hard for him and it is hard for me when we are trying to put good players on the pitch.
"Charlie could have had three or four goals in the short time he was on, and he was excellent in every element of his game."
He added: "Until recently, Charlie has not given me enough to say: 'Put me in, look what I can do', and now he has done that.
"His performance and his training is asking me to pick him for Fleetwood at the weekend."
The Dons are now 11th in the table, nine points above the dropzone, and Ardley is not surprised they got the result he says had been coming.
He said: "As much as I have been frustrated by the mistakes we have made, I cannot give enough credit to the players because at the moment they are running through brick walls for me.
"As a manager you have to accept the quality issues because that is the level we are at, but their commitment to me and the staff has been phenomenal.
"All I keep telling them is that they are good players, if they keep playing the way they are, as committed as they are, it has got to turn some point."
Ardley is hopeful that Peter Sweeney, who has had time with the U21s, and Andy Frampton will soon be back from injury, while the trip to Fleetwood may be too soon for Callum Kennedy and George Francomb.
On the comeback trail: Peter Sweeney has had time in the U21s this week as he makes his return from injury


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Topic: Not sure if people here believe in God... but please pray for my mum.
Recently my mother was diagnosed with this awful cancer. We are both Christians, or whole family are Christians.
I know that this is probably more of a forum on a medical standpoint, and I respect that my mother has a life threatening disease but I'm not giving in yet based on everything I have believed growing up.
I'm still young, only 18, and I need my mother. I adore her, I love her and she probably means more to me than anything else on this planet. I haven't gone on a school camp, even in my last year of school - I couldn't even sleep over my dad's house because I missed my mum too much and cannot bare to be away from her. I grew up with terrible anxiety disorders that I learned to manage simply by having my mother with me, getting through suicidal thoughts and making everything better - I was finally getting happy just with my mother there every step of the way.
I can't go on without her, and I love her to pieces. I am simply too attached, never having gone a day without her in my life - I need her.
Not sure if this belongs in the grief management, but it is an introduction nonetheless, and she is still alive.
As the title suggests, I don't know if anyone here does believe in a God, but if you do... just pray that she recovers. I need her, she is the standing point in every part of my life.
I need her to be okay.


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Nivek wrote:leswizards wrote:This season could go down in history as the worst season ever. The team starts 4-28 to virtually eliminate any chance of the playoffs, then goes 37-13 to finish the season at 41-41, and then misses the playoffs because there are 8 teams in the east with better records, meaning the Wizards end up getting the worst player in the lottery.
This post could come only from a Wizards fan. It somehow combines delusional optimism with soul-crushing pessimism.
This belongs in the HoF.


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The Tom English range is designed for the contemporary man, offering stylish suits at affordable prices. This machine washable suit is made from hard wearing fabric making this the perfect addition to your working wardrobe. This blue check is made on our tailored fit block for a more tapered look with a single breasted two button jacket and tailored fit flat front trousers. Add in the matching waistcoat to achieve another level of formality to your business look.
50% Wool 50% Polyester


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found a new home!
Plenty of my friends are looking
for one too. Find a pet to adopt.
Our Adoptions Include:
Spay or Neuter
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Hoss, a Gary Pit Bull Terrier dog was adopted! Here's how you can benefit by looking at adoption as an option to buying a Pit Bull Terrier for sale in Gary, or seeking a Pit Bull Terrier dog from a breeder in Gary.


text: Clayton County Teen Named Iowa Dairy Princess Epworth native to share duties as Alternate ANKENY, Iowa Iowa dairy farmers have a new collective voice. She is the new Iowa Dairy Princess, Gina Fisher of Clayton County. Just a night before the start of the Iowa State Fair, Fisher was tapped to take on the title and responsibilities of promoting dairy for the coming year. The coronation was held in the Multi-Media Center in the Cattle Barn at the state fairgrounds in Des Moines. Fisher, 17, is the daughter of David and Mary Fisher of Edgewood, Iowa. Fisher was also named Miss Congeniality from among the seven contestants. Jessica Hammerand will assist Fisher as 2011-12 Iowa Dairy Princess Alternate. The Dubuque County teen was also named winner of the presentation portion of the contest. Hammerand, 19, is the daughter of Jeff and Tammy Hammerand of Epworth, Iowa. The outgoing Iowa Dairy Princess, Kendra Moser, Colesburg, and Alternate Alyssa Meyer, Sumner, will continue to inform consumers about the benefits of dairy products at this year's fair. Starting on Sept. 1, both Fisher and Hammerand will begin sharing the stories of dairy farmers during school visits and other community events. Appearances throughout the year will allow Fisher and Hammerand to educate consumers about nutritious dairy foods, on-farm animal care and environmental sustainability. Judges considered personality, communication skills, and knowledge of and passion for the dairy industry to select the winner. The Iowa Division of Midwest Dairy Association, funded by the state's dairy farmers, annually sponsors the Iowa Dairy Princess contest.


text: Xyience is extending its relationship with mixed martial arts (MMA) fighter Matt Serra. The former Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) welterweight champion has been a brand ambassador for Xyience, the maker of Xenergy, the official energy drink of the UFC, since May 2009. "Matt Serra is not only an exceptional athlete, but he's proven to be


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Note: This item is more than 11 years old. Please take the publication date into consideration for any date references.
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Media Contact: TPWD News, email@example.com, 512-389-8030
Dec. 5, 2005
Texas Duck Stamp Program a Conservation Success Story
AUSTIN, Texas — For 25 years, Texas hunters have played a major role in successful waterfowl conservation efforts through the Texas Duck Stamp program.
Through the purchase of about 2 million state duck stamps, hunters and collectors have helped fund the lion's share of waterfowl habitat management, research and acquisition since 1981.
The Texas Duck Stamp has from its inception been a favorite of stamp and wildlife art collectors. In 1981, the Texas Duck Stamp Print was the largest single signed and numbered print of any kind ever in history, including the federal duck stamp print. That year, the state's royalties generated from the program exceeded the annual licensing income for the waterfowl stamp.
Much of the credit for the success of the stamp art program goes to Collectors Covey, who was instrumental in the creation of the Texas Duck Stamp. After the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department stopped issuing actual stamps a decade ago with the advent of the electronic licensing system, Collectors Covey continued to facilitate and promote the stamp art program and make the annual stamp available to collectors.
Of the $15 million-plus raised through the Texas Duck Stamp program, more than $5 million has been derived from sales of the stamps and art. These funds have helped major conservation initiatives in Texas, including:
- The acquisition of all or part of 11 state wildlife management areas covering more than 18,000 acres using $5.4 million in waterfowl stamp funds. Most of these WMAs continue to provide quality economical public waterfowl hunting opportunities.
- The restoration and/or protection of more than 112,000 acres of critical wetland habitat in Texas. During the last 200 years, more than half of the state's historic wetlands have been lost to land use changes, fragmentation and urban growth. Considering wetlands along the Texas coast are being lost at an annual rate of about 5,700 acres, efforts to protect and restore what's left is critical to the future health of waterfowl and other wildlife species that depend on wetlands.
- More than 35 MARSH projects with Ducks Unlimited, Inc. and other partners on state-owned WMAs using in excess of $2.5 million in waterfowl stamp funds.
- Over $1.3 million contributed toward the North American Waterfowl Management Plan coordinated through Ducks Unlimited.
- During the last decade, Texas has sent more than $850,000 for work in prime breeding and nesting areas of Canada that historically send ducks down the Central Flyway. The funds are leveraged, in many cases, more than fourfold by the time they reach the ground in Canada, with U.S. federal dollars under the North American Wetlands Conservation Grant program.
- Since 1985, Texas' partnership with Ducks Unlimited has conserved more than 200,000 acres of wetlands and waterfowl habitat in Saskatchewan. This province provides many of the ducks that winter in Texas.
Texas is one of 11 states to receive the prestigious Gold State Grant Award from Ducks Unlimited for contribution of Waterfowl Stamp Funds to Habitat Projects.
Wildlife art and stamp collectors may purchase Texas Duck Stamp prints and stamps through Collector's Covey Wildlife and Sporting Art at (800) 521-2403.
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'A Passion For…' holiday workshops
For those looking for something a little different. "A Passion For…" courses are week-long workshops which give children aged 6-14* new skills and interests, as well as a fabulous fun time with new friends.
For budding kitchen enthusiasts, our highly-rated "A Passion For… Food" is the UK's only week-long cookery course specially designed for the Nigellas and Gordons of tomorrow. We have a Cultured Cooking and a Super Camps Bake Off course for 2015.
For youngsters whose hands are always busy making new devices, "A Passion For…Invention" features fabulous new challenges that will get them making gadgets and gizmos that will be the envy of their peers.
Children who enjoy creativity can unleash their inner Da Vinci on "A Passion For…Arts and Crafts", with untold opportunity to create and design pictures, pottery, models and clothes through the generations in some of the finest studios around.
Children completing "A Passion For…" courses will be awarded authentic certificates of achievement that are sure to impress prospective college tutors and future employers alike.
Camps are open from 8am-6pm and we offer working parents the flexibility to pay with childcare vouchers. We are Ofsted registered with all staff fully DBS cleared.
Locations: Manchester, South Croydon, Hemel Hempstead, Titchfield, Newbury, Bournemouth, Chesham Bois, Stratford-upon-Avon, Salisbury, Cambridge, High Wycombe, Rickmansworth, Winslow, South London, Putney, Wimbledon, Ruislip, Blackheath, Canterbury, Burgess Hill, Hook, Letchworth Garden City, Marlow, Chandler's Ford, Chippenham, Croydon, Winchester, Taunton, Hatfield, Northampton, Abingdon, Andover, Chelmsford, Malvern, Bath, Ascot, Sutton, Milton keynes, Haywards Heath, Hampton, Wicken, Harrogate, Buckingham, Brighton and Hove, Oxford, Guildford, Bristol, Nr. Sevenoaks, Cheltenham, Edgbaston and Wallingford


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The Lake County Port Authority Board of Directors has approved authorization to issue up to $3 million in bonds to help the Great Lakes Mall in Mentor finance a roof replacement project.
The Port Authority and city of Mentor began working with Simon Properties Group Inc, which owns the mall, in 2009 regarding the financing deal.
Taxable bonds with a rate estimated at around 5 to 5.5 percent will be issued.
The financing deal approved Wednesday stems from the creation of a Special Improvement District last year that allows for alternative and energy efficiency projects to be financed through a special assessment on property taxes, said Port Authority Executive Director John Loftus.
"The Great Lakes Mall has over a million square feet under its roof and it's all over 30 years old," Loftus said. "The insulation value is negligent at best, but utilizing the energy SID, as we call it, to help finance it helps provide a lower financing cost to make this more viable."
Rates are generally lower because Simon Properties will pay back the loan through property tax assessments due when property tax bills are paid.
"It keeps the rate down, because if it's a property tax, it has a higher lien position rather than standard financing," Loftus said. "The cheaper they can do this financing the more they'll have for other improvements at the mall, plus hopefully it reduces their long-term operating costs and makes that more viable within their system."
Loftus said the mall hopes to have the project, contingent on weather, completed sometime next summer.
The agreement also provide an opportunity for the mall to secure additional financing if other needs arise from the project, he said.