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Everyone struggles from time to time with cravings for certain foods and/or a seemingly insatiable appetite. However, some people have these feelings every day, which can make maintaining a healthy weight and making good food choices difficult if not impossible. Amino acid therapy can help these people get their cravings and appetite under control.
Neurotransmitters are chemical messengers that tell the body what to do. Therefore, imbalances in neurotransmitter levels can cause the body to send the wrong signals, which can make you feel like doing things that you KNOW are not in your best interest. If you suffer from a seemingly insatiable appetite or strong cravings for certain foods, you have experienced this dysfunctional process in action.
Two neurotransmitters – serotonin and norepinephrine – are thought to control the appetite center of the brain. Any imbalances with these key neurotransmitters can spell doom for those that are trying to make better food choices, More specifically, if your serotonin levels are low, not only can your mood suffer, you will also be much more likely to crave carbohydrates, especially in the mid‐afternoon and evening. This will make it particularly difficult to lose weight (or at the very least, avoid obsessing over food), because your will power is no match for your brain chemistry and you will eventually 'blow' even the most well planned out dietary program and give into the cravings.
Once more, low norepinephrine (and dopamine) levels can cause binging-type behavior, and are at the root of many addictive‐type behaviors ‐ including addictions to various foods, alcohol, drugs, and actions ‐ all of which will thwart any attempt at losing weight through traditional weight loss methods. In addition, low norepinephrine levels will dramatically increase your appetite, so you will want to (and eventually will) eat more than your body needs, causing you to gain weight.
Causes of Neurotransmitter Imbalance
Neurotransmitter imbalances can be caused by many different factors, including:
- Food intolerance and/or hypersensitivities
- Stress
- Toxic burden
- Sleep disturbances
- Alcohol
- Digestive imbalances
- Dietary deficiencies
- Genetics
- Illicit drug use (especially amphetamines, cocaine and LSD)
- Medication use, including antidepressants, anti‐anxiety, sleep and migraine medications
Therefore, one of the keys to determining how to correct the underlying imbalances is to determine each individual's unique cause(s) of imbalance and to properly address them.
Using Amino Acids To Eliminating Cravings and Reducing Appetite
The key to being able to reduce and eliminate your cravings and appetite is often found in optimizing neurotransmitter function. This begins with identifying if any of the factors above are at the root of your imbalances and addressing them so you can prevent further depletion. Next, we must give the body the nutrients it needs to restore optimal neurotransmitter function.
Neurotransmitters are made in the body from specific amino acids and co-factors, like B‐vitamins, selenium, and other vitamins and minerals. If the body is given the right proportions of each of these nutrients at the right time, it can almost always make the neurotransmitters it needs.
Trial-and-error used to be the only way to determine if and what amino acids would help each person. Now, there are many tests that can be used to help guide recommendations. Working with a provider that is well versed in the use of amino acid therapy can save you countless hours, and substantial amount of money and seemingly endless frustration when trying to get your appetite and cravings under control; and you CAN get them under control
By identifying and addressing your neurotransmitter imbalances you can effectively and efficiently control your cravings and appetite and regain control of what you choose to eat.


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Please see the photos attached. You need to remove the four screws on the side of the bottom lid . There are two screws on the top that need to be removed.
Once removed, the side handles will come off. You can see where the detached part where the UV light button goes. You can see how it is assembled back and glued, to screw back in black for the fix.

subset: commoncrawl


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Like the sterling breed it represents, this Bernese Mountain Dog necklace showcases the patience and strength of this beautiful breed. Made in America and created from recycled sterling silver.
- Recycled .925 sterling silver
- Approximately 1" H x 1.25" W (2.5 x 3 cm)
- Optional 18" L (45.7 cm) sterling chain
- Made in the U.S.A.


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Sovo Furniture
Radford Bar Chair Gold
- Color Gold
- Dimensions (in) W 18.9 x H 44.9 x L 19.3
The Radford Bar chair were the spirit of a classic French design unite to create a sleek modern silhouette. Polished Stainless steel in Gold finish features a seamless design from top to bottom, seat and round back. This graceful bar chair makes a stunning addition to any bar, restaurant or residence. Sold separately the collection includes dining and bar chairs in either Silver or Gold Stainless steel.


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Mrmmbs Vision is not just a website Development Company or application development company. We have always made efforts towards becoming much more than that. We have seen business houses being almost robbed and slaughtered for their I.T. requirements and keeping the same in mind we set our standards that high that when a client takes our services they could feel the difference and experience the excellence.
Hiring a dedicated developer always help you in getting the job done on efficiently. Get your custom Web and app project developed with the help of Developers of Mrmmbs Vision.
Our highly skilled people do possess enough experience in serving for the Education Industry. Opt for the services by the team sitting behind Mrmmbs Vision and turn your luck into Good-Luck.
A search module that is strong enough to understand the users' needs and give suggestions as the user types the words.
A beautiful pattern of expressions via words, designs, and offerings are created to build your image in the eyes of your audience.
Efficient administration of all the data ensures the execution of online admission in a non-obstructive way.
Looking at a Wider Spectrum
Free your students from taking up notes on paper and allow them to type the notes on the aside module provided for the same purpose.
Teachers are provided an online white-board to teach the students.
As per the student's tastes and preferences ascertained from their google search, they are shown the personalized
Taking the live test and delivering the results instantly is a piece of cake for our module.
A unique user- id is provided for each student. So they can have access to their data. Everything is managed independently using Database Management system.
The use of motion UI plays a great role in motivating the students through the use of animation.
We use latest technologies to create your projects
Get a website or an app that is easily accessible by each person.
Get the layout that not only provides information but also is quite logical in all aspects.
Our tight security keeps all your educational data and data of your students safe.
Get a website look that instantly emerges a sense of credibility in its audience.
Keep all your communication secured and seamless and function with great effectiveness.
Detailed Insight on the technologies via blog posts.
or mail us on firstname.lastname@example.com
Delhi Office : M2, 3rd Floor, Mahavir Nagar, Janakpuri East, New Delhi 110058
UK Office : Mrmmbs Vision-150 Red Lion Road,
Surbiton, Surrey, KT6 7QX
London, United Kingdom
2020 © Mrmmbs Vision. ALL Rights Reserved.


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The world of CBD is changing rapidly. As it continues to transform, users are presented with a variety of options they could only dream of years ago. Some of these options include transdermal patches. Transdermal patches have been around since the advent of the scopolamine patch for motion sickness in 1979.
However, transdermal distribution has been a mode of delivering medicines and antidotes long before the invention of modern medicines. Ancient people often smeared a variety of concoctions and ointments onto the skin to help mitigate sickness and disorders. Nowadays, transdermal patches are everywhere. They can be used to effectively deliver contraceptive hormones, nicotine, vitamins, and even Alzheimer's medications.
And now, you can use them to get a boost of CBD. Transdermal patches not only promise rapid delivery, but they are amazingly convenient, giving even the most absent-minded of us the chance to get their fix of CBD. We'll dive into the deep end of CBD transdermal patches, what they are, what they do, and most importantly, how to get them!
How Transdermal Patches Work
The term "transdermal" comes from Latin and means "to cross or traverse" the skin. It may come as a surprise, but the skin is the body's largest organ. It protects us from a variety of everyday threats, from bacteria and microbes to harsh temperature fluctuations. It also functions as the gateway to one of our most prized senses: The sense of touch.
The skin contains thousands of nerve endings in just one square inch of skin. These nerve endings are the first step in how our bodies process complex signals, including pain, temperature, pressure and even pleasure.
Our skin is responsible for the "chills" and goosebumps you may feel when listening to a moving concerto or spying a great work of art. It helps to keep us hydrated. This amazing organ is made up of three main layers: The epidermis (the outer layer), the dermis, and the subcutaneous layer. Each layer has an independent function that relates to the regulation of bodily systems.
For example, the outer layer of skin, the epidermis, is a waterproof barrier and contains our melanin (melanin is responsible for the diverse colors of human skin). The dermis contains our nerve endings, sweat glands, and connective tissue. The subcutaneous portion of our skin is responsible for regulating temperature and storing fat.
Transdermal patches are typically made up of four different elements: A backing, an adhesive, a release liner, and a drug or substance. Transdermal patches usually adhere to three main designs: The reservoir-type, the matrix, and the DIA design. In the reservoir-type design, the drug is held in a small compartment between a semi-permeable barrier and the adhesive.
The matrix design is distinguished by the drug as a semisolid, and it is dispersed without the aid of a membrane layer. The Drug-in-Adhesive (DIA) design incorporates the drug into the adhesive that attaches to the skin. The DIA technique is considered the most efficient and state-of-the-art method.
Once the transdermal patch adheres to skin, there is a controlled release of the substance inside the patch. Usually, the release is dictated by the semi-permeable membrane or the temperature of the skin that induces a slow melt of the drug for absorption. The drug is then released into the bloodstream and the circulatory system.
The Advantages of Transdermal CBD Patches
Transdermal CBD patches convey several benefits over conventional delivery methods. First, transdermal patches are a great option for anyone with an aversion to pills or tinctures. CBD delivered directly into the bloodstream via the skin may offer a more comfortable alternative. With bloodstream delivery, you can also get a more reliable and rapid delivery.
Transdermal patches may also offer a gradual release of the CBD product rather than a large dosage all at once. Users can get a constant stream of CBD that uses the skin as a semi-permeable barrier. By using the body's heat to activate the CBD within the patch, delivery is measured and at a constant pace.
Pills and powders also run the risk of upsetting the balance of the body's digestive system, causing nausea or upset stomach. With the patch, an individual can bypass the stomach and the possible risk of an adverse reaction.
Patches are also easy to apply and remove. You won't have to worry about complex schedules or timetables. Adhere the patch to your skin and that's a reduction in the need to consciously regulate intake. CBD patches are also pain-free. Patches can also stay hidden discretely beneath clothing.
The Disadvantages of a Transdermal CBD Patch:
- Using a transdermal CBD patch could cause possible skin irritation around the site where the patch is anchored. This can include itching, swelling, and erythema (redness).
- Depending on the circumstances, the patch may interfere with certain medical procedures, including an MRI.
- Cuts or tears in the skin may affect how the drug is administered into the bloodstream and cause further irritation and possible side effects.
- Skin thickness changes from one part of the body to the next and from person to person. This makes it difficult to measure efficacy.
What is CBD?
CBD, or cannabidiol, is a major component of cannabis. There are hundreds of other compounds, but many of them are found in minuscule amounts. CBD lacks the psychoactive effects of THC or tetrahydrocannabinol, another primary compound found in cannabis. CBD is known mostly for its therapeutic effects. In other words, it doesn't make you feel "high" like THC does.
CBD can be derived from two major sources of cannabis: Hemp or marijuana. Hemp-derived CBD is what you'll most likely find in a patch or a tincture. This is because it is the only form of CBD that has been federally approved.
Things may be rapidly changing regarding legislation, but marijuana is currently classed as a Schedule I drug and federally banned from use. Even so, many states have distinct laws regarding how marijuana can be sold, used and consumed.
CBD impacts the body through the endocannabinoid system or ECS. The ECS is responsible for maintaining homeostasis and ensuring that bodily systems stay on task. The ECS can be found in large portions of the central and peripheral nervous system. The ECS oversees the delivery of messages to the brain that controls pain, memory, movement, and temperature.
The ECS accomplishes this using neurotransmitters or chemical messengers that relay messages throughout the nervous system to the brain. Neurotransmitters stimulate receptors in the nervous system. These receptors operate like doorways and neurotransmitters often function as a key, allowing access. Receptors in the brain most affected by cannabis include receptors CB1 and CB2.
THC can block these receptors or "doorways" from closing, allowing a build-up of chemicals and impacting how the brain interprets certain signals. For example, a build-up of serotonin, a chemical messenger associated with happiness, often results in the betterment of mood and disposition.
CBD, on the other hand, triggers changes in other ways. It does not directly impact receptors. Instead, it influences how readily receptors accept neurotransmitters, allowing for easier access. This indirect impact doesn't interfere with the brain in ways that cause changes in cognition and perception.
CBD has been indicated in helping with anxiety, depression, sleeplessness, and nausea. It has been cited to support mental acuity and one day could be used to combat addiction and aid addiction recovery.
Where to Find Transdermal CBD Patches
If you want to give transdermal CBD patches a try, you have a variety of buying options. Transdermal CBD patches are becoming more prolific, and you'll find that some reliable online stores offer a plethora of affordable options:
Mary's Nutritionals:
This online store offers a variety of CBD-based products, including transdermal patches. Their 'Elite' transdermal patches are full-spectrum and contain 10mg of CBD extract.
La Mend:
This CBD patch comes in a variety of options, each formulated for a certain therapeutic benefit. There's the 'Nite, Nite,' patch for sleeplessness, the 'Period,' patch for sufferers of menstrual and premenstrual symptoms, and even a patch for a 'Hangover.' Each patch retails for about $12 and contains 15mg of CBD extract.
Pure Ratios Transdermal Reservoir Patches:
Each patch contains a whopping 120 mg of CBD extract. Each purchase contains two patches. The patches have been formulated to be full-spectrum and contain a host of terpenes and flavonoids. These patches contain no THC.
Be Tru Wellness Pain Relief Patches:
These patches are waterproof and are formulated for the relief of pain. Each patch lasts for about 12 hours and contains full-spectrum hemp-derived CBD, lidocaine, and menthol.
Pure Ratios Hemp Patch
This hemp patch provides up to 96 hours of relief. It is waterproof and safe to wear in the shower or pool. Each patch has about 40mg of hemp-derived CBD and also contains natural ingredients to ward off irritation, including extra virgin coconut oil, almond oil, and aloe.
Transdermal CBD Patches: Will They Work for You?
If you're still wondering if CBD patches will work for you, the best thing you can do is to try them for yourself. They may be a great option if you are not a fan of pills, don't enjoy powders, and aren't keen on vaping. If you have digestive problems, taking CBD in this manner can avoid an upset stomach or nausea.
Patches can be a great way to distribute CBD into your body without you having to constantly remember to take it. Some patches offer waterproof options, so you can still enjoy everyday activities like hanging out with friends at a beach or pool and may be able to discreetly position the patch beneath clothing.
If you decide to go with the patch, be sure to observe some simple steps to make sure your experience is optimal:
- First, take care to apply each patch to a swath of clean, dry skin. Watch carefully for any changes in the skin around the patch.
- Don't tear the patch open or try to apply to skin that is bruised or broken.
- Observe local and state laws regarding CBD use.
- If you are under the direction of a doctor for other conditions, let your physician know about your CBD use.
As CBD gains traction in the mainstream arena, sufferers of many ailments can look forward to this compound as an alternative. Its many purported therapeutic effects can be utilized through a variety of methods. However, the patch can offer a low-hassle and inconspicuous way to experience CBD. Consumers should continue to explore how transdermal patches may work for their unique needs, how they work and the purchasing options available.


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Thousands of beauty products launch into the UK market every year – and most of them end up on our desks here at Bazaar. But which ones made our picks of the year? From the planet-friendly bathroom basics to the biggest skincare launch in years, these are the innovations we've loved the most in 2018. Roll up 2019...
The American import worth waiting for: Drunk Elephant
Finally, this long-awaited cult skincare brand made it across the pond. The high-powered range gave us the excellent results that we had anticipated, fast, and all without the 'suspicious 6' – essentials oils, alcohol, silicones, chemical screens, fragrance and SLS. Top marks for the T.L.C Framboos Glycolic Night Serum (£76) and the B-Hydra™ Intensive Hydration Serum (£44). - Katy Young, beauty director
The biggest hair innovation since Olaplex: Virtue
A few weeks into testing this new range our panel noticed a definite strengthening and protecting effect. You see, Virtue (£36 for the shampoos and £38 for the conditioners) contains patented Alpha Keratin 60ku, a protein which makes up our hair, skin and nails and which our body is able recognise and use as its own. We've tried the entire collection now and can't fault it, while those with thinning or damaged hair now can't live without it. - KY
The suncare innovation of the year: Vichy Idéal Soleil Solar Protective Water Spray, £19
Hands down my favourite SPF for the body; I used this all summer long on holidays and at home. As lightweight as water, with the silky finish of a dry oil, the innovative formula containing hyaluronic acid is a pleasure to use (unlike traditional sunscreens). At first I worried whether such elegant-feeling sun protection I could simply spritz on – and barely rub in – would actually work, but I can vouch that this really does. Neither a trip to Turks & Caicos, nor our newsworthy heatwave, outdid it. Bring back the sun so I can use it again, please. - Bridget March, digital beauty director
The 'filter in a bottle' that actually is: Charlotte Tilbury Hollywood Flawless Filter, £30
Charlotte Tilbury's make-up brand has become synonymous with gorgeous, glowing complexions, and the launch of her Flawless Filter really embodies that. Like a ring light in a bottle, this 'complexion booster' leaves skin lit. The idea is that you can customise your glow with it; wear it alone for instant radiance, as a primer to add luminosity to your base, or as a highlighter where you want some added skin zing. I like to wear it alone (in addition to concealer where needed) for a healthier-looking alternative to foundation which can sometimes enhance lines and a tired complexion. I haven't found anything else like it. - BM
The fine lines fighter: La Roche Posay Hyalu B5 Eyes, £25.50
I was a huge fan of 2017's Hyalu B5 Serum, so was thrilled when this arrived in the office. I'm not an eye cream evangelist by any means – I set out with the best intentions once every couple of months, before giving up and going back to just spreading my moisturiser closer to my eyes and leaving the tube or tub lying around on my shelf. This, however, has become a favourite already. I fortunately don't have many fine lines or wrinkles yet, except for around my eyes, which I'm told is mostly down to dehydration. This lightweight cream, which is fine for morning or evening use, immediately smooths the area and I'm positive it makes my make-up sit better, and for longer. - Siân Ranscombe, beauty editor
The SPF that stays put: Elemis Daily Defence Shield SPF30, £46
I know it's dull to have chosen two skincare products but as a pale, freckled, paranoid person, I can't do without a daily sunscreen. The trouble normally is that they sit terribly under make-up, either leaving a greasy film or causing foundation to pill. Elemis's Daily Defence Shield (which replaced the inferior Liquid Layer SPF30) does neither, going on like a light hydration fluid and staying put when foundation is applied on top. - SR
The sea-saving shower gel: REN Atlantic Kelp And Magnesium Anti-Fatigue Body Wash, £22
While this body wash is wonderfully nourishing in its own right, its 100 per cent recyclable packaging and the brand's campaigning for greater sustainability in the beauty industry, secures my vote for one of my favourite launches of the year. Now you can relax comfortably in the knowledge that your body and the planet are well-looked after. - Becki Murray, beauty assistant
The derm brand of the year: Dr Sam Bunting Skincare
Dermatologist brands grew in popularity in 2018 and, in my opinion, none was more exciting than Dr Sam Bunting's cleanser (and more recently the accompanying moisturiser). With its simple packaging and gentle yet effective formulas you can expect results without the fuss; it's like having the famed derm herself on hand in your bathroom. - BeM


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Interview with art-buyers
February 23, 2010
Art-buyers who work at network agencies search illustrators for advertising campaigns. We have asked art-buyers of Leo Burnett, INSTINCT, JWT, BBDO, Rodnaya Rech,Saatchi & Saatchi some questions to learn more about this profession.
Illustrator Aleksander Blosyak
Could you describe your functions in six words?
Marina Shponko: Organization, search, sales, psychology, art, pleasure.
Roman Presnyakov: Projects(1) traffic(2) and art-buying(3) in the broadest(4) sense(5) of the word(6) (excluding the prepositions).
Anna Ivannikova: Realization of agency creative projects, illustration production, photos material rights purchasing.
Tamara Leeckok: Google, Outlook, Excel, Calculator, Mobile Phone.
How did you become an art-buyer?
Ekaterina Pastukh: My love to examine pictboardures has outgrown into a trade.
Marina Shponko: At the beginning I was a photo-production assistant. Later I've become photo-production producer. And then I've received the invitation to be art-buyer in BBDO.
Roman Presnyakov: Unforgettable Jayson Romejko hired me on the post of traffic-manager. Since the agency was very small at that time I had a possibility to diversify my activities. I made everything from gluing layouts on cardboard to organization of big parties. In general I was involved in a wide range of creative services among which art buying has also found its place. Just because the agency where I worked served to the biggest advertiser in the world, I was lucky enough to receive classical art-buying experience. We worked with right procedures, correct timings and good budgets. So that's how I became an art-buyer.
Anna Ivannikova: Promotion (i got a promotion).
Elvira Krutina: By accident.
Tamara Leeckok: Actually my profession is an animator. But God works in mysterious ways.
Art-buyer Marina Shponko, agency BBDO, illustrator Natasha Savinykh
Agency or free-lancer? Why?
Roman Presnyakov: As for me it depends on two major factors: amount and the structure of art-buyer's work and complexity of an agency and client bureaucratic mechanism. Of course art-buyer has to monitor the market, understand graphic art trends and be able to find an expert for any task of art-director. However, my situation is different. I spend lots of time organizing image production and administrating projects of the agency. That's why sometimes it is easier to delegate selection of an illustration style to the illustration agency. Take for example Marina Shponko, an art-buyer of the largest Moscow advertising agency, who has one photo-shooting after another; in her case work with the agency is the only way out. Besides the risk is minimized, as the fresh illustrator found by portfolio can somehow let you down. At the same time for example Natasha Klimchuk from Bang! Bang! Studio or Olja Zhukova from Rodbaer would not just disappear in a moment. :) The question of payment and document circulation also plays a large role. I know at first-hand how the agency back-office should operate so that free-lancers receive the payments faster. But, unfortunately, it looks more like an exception. According to the civil code the agency is just an intermediary, and it's the end consumer who pays the designer. And the chain of people making these payments is so long, that sometimes its months before it reaches the illustrator! Nevertheless the Russian advertising community is rather closed and it's easy to get information about your colleagues. It is the fact that free-lancers blacklisted some advertising agencies because they just didn't pay for months - another reason why working with illustration agencies is so convenient. It is clear - for example, we work with an art studio KS, and even though we sometimes hold back the payments, we provide them with constant stream of orders. And for this constancy studio offers convenient terms and conditions. I have forgotten those times when I would start calling every free-lancer, asking if he is available and has time to create a storyboard for my project. Moreover free-lancers still do not understand that besides their fee the agency pays assessments to the state budget, which makes it up to 50% from the estimate price. That's why if, for example, illustrator Aulov and studio KS charge the same price for the same storyboard frame, it turns out that the Aulov's storyboard is one and a half time more expensive. Free-lancers should start working as individual entrepreneurs or work within the illustration agency, that's what I think.
Anna Ivannikova: I choose an agency. If the agency recommends an illustrator it means that they've already worked with him. This is important. It's always dangerous inviting new people to work at a project. Though we still work with some free-lancers who are really good.
Elvira Krutina: It's difficult to say. It depends on people. Just recently I worked with a free-lancer. His attitude and quality won our hearts. The whole creative department watched him work and admired. It is a pity that his style is very original and rarely can be used for our clients. As for cooperating with an agency - certainly there is a plus. Rarely can you come across quick-witted and industrious free-lancers. At times it is difficult to find approach to them. Managers of illustrator studios know their artists like the back of their hand. I'm glad that our agency made contracts with the studios, where true professionals work. It is a great pleasure to deal with them, especially with some of them :-)
Art-buyer Anna Ibannikova, agency Leo Burnett, illustrator Stas Orlov
How do you pay fees to illustrators?
Roman Presnyakov: As I've already noted above, it all depends on agencies personnel: lawyers, bookkeepers, financiers, employees of client service department, and art-buyers, of course. The rights and fees are transferred in a timely and regular manner only if the performance of every person in the chain and the whole system itself is proper.
How do you search for new illustrators?
Ekaterina Pastukh: I use old contacts as well as tracing new interesting works. I always surf the internet for the specific artist for every project. Thanks to the world wide web!
Marina Shponko: I already have a base of professional illustrators I work with. Sometimes people just come to an agency and introduce themselves. I also use special web sites.
Roman Presnyakov: In boundless spaces of the internet: Live Journal, Twitter, Behance. Specialized resources like: free-lance.ru, illustrators.ru.
Anna Ivannikova: Agency, or the internet (which I use more seldom).
Tamara Leeckok: Sometimes my colleagues recommend me someone; sometimes I find them on the internet. At times it is them who find me.
Art-buyer Roman Presnyakov, agency JWT, illustrator Evgeny Tonkonogiy
Photographs or illustrators? Why?
Ekaterina Pastukh: Both photographers and illustrators! And sometimes both for the same project. I think that works where illustration is combined with photography have special charm and attraction.
Marina Shponko: It is more interesting with photographers :-) Sorry... To me they are closer and more understandable. Illustrators are mysterious people. By the way I am very glad that there are people who understand them and speak with them the same language.
Roman Presnyakov: Art plan, terms, means. With an illustration it's much easier and faster than organizing a photo-shooting, though guidelines of many brands I work with do not accept illustrations as key images.
Elvira Krutina: Usually when it comes to working with a photographer, illustrator becomes also needed for some help. Though illustrations are becoming more widespread in advertising.
Do artists often refuse to work in the middle of the process? Why? How do you find the way in such situations?
Roman Presnyakov: Well, it doesn't really happen, God is merciful). But once there was a situation, when we had to create characters for a client. Fortunately, the client required different variants from different illustrators. I have found some interesting artists on free-lance.ru. Two of them appeared to be really quick, but the third one always had some "circumstances". Moreover he did not have enough honesty to estimate the situation adequately and just quit in time. The terms were put off three times and work wasn't done. Fortunately, I have found a substitute, and shift of terms was not critical (by the way, free-lancer I found the last minute has won the tender). So, I have written a claim on the profile of that blundered free-lancer. I did not expect, but this internet resource appeared to be very authoritative. After a week this free-lancer (who was very aggressive at the beginning) was making apologies and begging to remove the claim. It turns out that the reputation on free-lance.ru is a big thing! Another time an illustrator refused to continue his work because of an inadequate behavior of the client. The client had a very small budget and asked me to find something inexpensive. I have asked a friend of mine to help for a nominal prize. So he worked hard, receiving one comment after another. On the fourth round, during presentation to the client, he has just flown off the handle. When brand-manager's criticism became absolutely biased the artist declared: "Hey, you are just nagging!" Well, he left, and I remained the only responsible for the rest of the project. Deadline was implacable. The agency has already subscribed the documents. We hardly got out of a scrape.
Anna Ivannikova: Sometimes it happened because of critical deadlines, or there were complexities during work - misunderstandings. It was possible to smooth over the conflicts, to compromise. In the end we handed in all projects.
Tamara Leeckok: Once I've given a project to one very talented illustrator. He started working with eagerness. After making first illustration he decided to take a cigarette. He smoked for a long time… For five days. He broke all deadlines. So we had to entice him, take him to our office, supply with all necessities (paper, pencils, food and drink) and "hold him in custody" until he finished his work. It's sad and funny at the same time.
Art-buyer Anna Ivannikova, agency Leo Burnett, illustrator Natasha Savinykh
Which illustrators, both Russian and foreign, do you like the most?
Ekaterina Pastukh: Speaking about work, it depends on a task. But personally I like, for example, Sabine Pieper very much.
Marina Shponko: From Russian illustrators I like Maxim Pokalev.
Roman Presnyakov: Choosing from compatriots, I can tell that I am a great fan of Stas Orlov. In livejournal I'm also signed on blogs of Aleksandr Blosyak, Victor Melamedov andEvgeny Kiselev. They are posting a lot of new interesting works. I also usually look throughFeodor Sumkin's works with interest. His creative art breaks the boundaries of illustration. They are very typographic. I had luck working with him once. Later we got acquainted when I visited him in Amsterdam. I also admire Ilya Trefilov's style. I have one of his key-visuals hanging on my wall. It's a sketch of "reconsidered" Vasnetsov's Alyonushka. The client could not accept it).
From foreign experts I love Brazilian Adhemas Batista, , whose works I tried to sell for one big illustrative project with a cigarette company. Unfortunately the project wasn't launched at all. I admire Adhemas Batista's shaking colors, excellent art taste, extraordinary productiveness and very accurate professional approach.
. Leaving aside advertising, I can note Rachel Goodyear and Jeremy Enecio with their infernal drawings, and dead monkeys by Kirsty Whiten.
In opposition to all that "carrion", I have to mention cheerful stylistics of Jurjen Bosklopper, an artist from Netherlands, the country, which is considered to be a design winning. His works balance between an illustration and graphic design. I can list s lot of good artists, but, perhaps, I will stop here.
Anna Ivannikova: I like Tatsuro Kiuchi's, the Japanese illutrator.
Elvira Krutina: My careful attention is attracted to Evgeny Parfenov, Iv Orlov, Sonya Elovikova, Aleksandra Marinina, Evgeny Kiselev, Jerico Santander, Si Scott, Cristiano Siqueira, Jared Nickerson, Andrey Gordeev.
Art-buyer Marina Shponko, agency BBDO, illustration Sergey Aleynikov
What does Russian advertising market lack?
Ekaterina Pastukh: As I consider myself to be a small part of Russian advertising market, it is hard be objective. Besides every business has its special feature. But probably the majority of us is not experienced enough. The more we work, the more we study, and therefore we can do more things.
Marina Shponko: Easiness, aesthetics, creativity.
Anna Ivannikova: We are fine! But I'd love to have more projects with illustration. In Europe it's really widespread.
Elvira Krutina: New discoveries of great illustrators in the internet :-)
Tamara Leeckok: Ability to resist focus groups.
Do you influence art director's choice?
Ekaterina Pastukh: When art director makes a choice, the question on influence is irrelevant. I try to choose executors who can realize an idea. I pick several people and an art director defines the most suitable one. Usually I like all of those I choose.
Marina Shponko: Never... They know what they want :-)
Roman Presnyakov: It depends on art director's suggestibility level. To tell the truth, I was always lucky with my colleagues from creative department. Due to our teamwork I could form and transform my own ideas and preferences in advertising. Of course I express my opinions, but as I represent creative services department, my goal is to satisfy an art director, to find a person, who can realize his idea.
Anna Ivannikova: A bit.
Elvira Krutina: Only if my arguments are not only about terms and money.
Tamara Leeckok: We listen to each other and work in collaboration.
Art-buyer Ekaterina Pastukh, agency Saatchi & Saatchi, illustrator Victor Platonov
Sometimes because the bureaucratic machine client uses pictures, before the rights are transfered. What can be done to prevent this?
Ekaterina Pastukh: For me this is just another problem, and there's no such a problem that can't be solved. But sometimes problems are being solved for too long. It is important that everyone in the chain (client-agency-production-executor) remembers that this is not the last project they do together.
Marina Shponko: We sign documents before all advertisements hang in a city. This is an iron rule. But if we don't, it is an exception. For us it is a force majeure. Such situation is a rarity.
Tamara Leeckok: Eradicate bureaucracy together! :-)
If it is necessary to choose between a talent and terms, what do you usually choose?
Ekaterina Pastukh: We always have to choose a variant when the executor is talented and will wake it in time.
Marina Shponko: We choose talent. Sometimes the deadline can be changed. We try not to save money on quality.
Roman Presnyakov: Professionalism is all about compromising, but quality is certainly above terms. Art-buyer, as any producer, has no right to offer alternative that breaks the terms of manufacture and placing. But with media and prints producers we can usually strike a bargain on a short delay.
Anna Ivannikova: We are very exacting to the executors. We always need an interesting result of a good quality. That's why talent is more important for us. If it is necessary it's always possible to agree on the timings, to compromise.
Elvira Krutina: Work of a talent, executed in time. :-)
Tamara Leeckok: Usually the task for an art-buyer stands like that: "beautiful and in time!" There is no need to choose.
Art-buyer Marina Shponko, agency BBDO, illustrator Evgeny Katin
How many links it appears to be in a chain between the client and an executor? How often do you face a problem of misunderstanding?
Ekaterina Pastukh: Nevertheless I would break this chain on two parts: "client - art director" and "art director - executor". We face a problem of misunderstanding really often even in the short chain "art director - executor".
Marina Shponko: We try to make only one link. Art director collects the opinion of the client and brings it to the executor in clear words.
Anna Ivannikova: No, not really often. The most important is knowing what you want to get and defining details before the project starts. All that comes with experience. The only link is a manager.
Tamara Leeckok: It is not a lot of links, but, unfortunately, they sometimes don't work harmoniously.
How many letters in a week (on average) do you get from illustrators and photographers, who search cooperation? Do you answer to all letters?
Ekaterina Pastukh: I get a lot of them and try answering to all of them, of course looking through their works first.
Marina Shponko: Not so many. Most of the illustrators and photographers are already known. I get up to ten letters in a month. Yes, we answer everyone.
Roman Presnyakov: Few. I try to answer to all questions.
Anna Ivannikova: I also try to answer to all questions. Yes, letters do come, but how often - I can't tell.
Art-buyer Anna Ivannikova, agency Leo Burnett, illustrator Evgeny Tonkonogy
Do you like working with venerable artists and photographers or the beginners?
Ekaterina Pastukh: It depends on a project, tasks and a character of the person.
Marina Shponko: If a person is talented it is not important if he is a beginner or not. It is always nice working with such people.
Anna Ivannikova: It is more interesting with venerable, of course. They are more professional. But we are always open to new talents.
Tamara Leeckok: I like working with talented and understanding people.
Give some advice to the beginning art-buyer.
Marina Shponko: Treat people how you would like to be treated.
Anna Ivannikova: Enthusiasm and patience!
Tamara Leeckok: Do not betray yourself and your art-director!
Art-buyer Elvira Krutina, agency Rodnaya Rech, illustrator Evgeny Katin
Do you feel stressed at work, and if yes, how do you struggle against it?
Ekaterina Pastukh: It happens, but not really often. I do not struggle against it, because it disappears when the project is closed.
Marina Shponko: I don't feel "stress". I'd call it "load". I practice yoga to get rid of it. By the way, I recommend yoga to everyone :-)
Tamara Leeckok: I do not struggle at all. It's useless. Stress disappears when I come back home to my child and a husband.
Roman Presnyakov: Hassle is what I like about my job in advertising. Liveliness and variety of projects give me energy.
Further reading


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MEXICO CITY (AP) The bodies of 20 to 25 people, apparently victims of drug gang violence, were recovered from an abandoned silver mine in an area of southern Mexico popular with international tourists, a federal police official said Sunday.
The bodies appear to have been tossed over time down about 300 feet into the abandoned mine, which is near Taxco, a city in the state of Guerrero that is known for its silver jewelry and other items. The area, dotted by hundreds of mines, is popular with tourists from the United States and elsewhere.
Federal Police Commissioner Facundo Rosas said a suspect told the authorities about the mass grave, and they began pulling bodies from the mine late Saturday.
Guerrero is plagued by drug violence among rival gangs, and marked by brazen attacks on the police and soldiers engaged in a crackdown on traffickers.
In an unrelated case, Mr. Rosas said Sunday, the authorities arrested two brothers on Mexico's most wanted list who are suspected of being members of La Línea drug gang and tied to several killings.


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New laws and a presidency like none we've ever seen
The latest edition of Eye on Oshkosh is now online. Taped on Feb. 16, 2017, host Cheryl Hentz talks with local attorney and political pundit George Curtis about new Wisconsin laws that went into effect on Jan 1, 2017, and the current state of politics, both in our nation's capital and in Wisconsin. The show can be seen on local cable access OR at the following You Tube link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wj_6JR2_OxU.


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Sheryl Crow – "Real Gone" (Live in Philly, 2009)
Sunoco Welcome America 4th of July Parade
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
4 July 2009
Posted on July 4, 2009, in 2009, cars, real gone. Bookmark the permalink. 3 Comments.
The energy on this vid is Awesome, and the balance is amazing, Fabulous Song and Vocals, 😉 xxxxxxxxxxxx
awesome 🙂
cool song


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"... it's very easy to be different, but very difficult to be better."
Jonathan Ive
Consumers love good potatoes in practical and attractive packaging. This means that attractive presentation of the product—along with optimal legibility of the required information—is important if you want your product to sell well. At the same time, the right choice of packaging materials ensures that the quality of the goods is retained during transportation and storage.
"... it's very easy to be different, but very difficult to be better."
Jonathan Ive
We are well set up to deal with the increasing significance of packaging in the food sector, and we are able to manufacture many different types of packaging.
More and more customers choose to have their own label, as individual packaging means that distributors have an exclusive and unmistakeable product. Here are just a few examples:
M Paper packaging
Laminated packaging
Paper packaging
Plastic packaging
Paper boxes


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The lovable and relatively popular Suzuki Jimny has reached the end of its lifespan and reports are suggesting that the fourth-generation Jimny will be revealed towards the end of 2018 with market launch slated for 2019. Production of the current Jimny has reportedly come to an end and Suzuki is now preparing to produce the next iteration. Here's what we know about the new Jimny thus far…
The Suzuki Jimny has a devoted fan base in South Africa and across the world. This compact off-roader is often lauded for its surprising capability in rough terrain as well as its compact dimensions and cute looks. There is, however, a new Jimny on the way and it will probably land in South Africa in 2019 after it is expected to be revealed later this year.
Its boxy dimensions will largely remain and it is expected to grow in size and Suzuki will retain its body-on-frame construction and 4x4 system which means it will still be very capable in the rough. The Jimny's on-road handling ability is expected to improve and a major interior revamp is expected too. The interior will likely feature similar styling to the new Swift (due in SA soon) and will incorporate a touchscreen infotainment system.
The new Suzuki Jimny will grow in size, but it will retain its boxy styling with major changes expected inside.
The new Jimny is expected to be powered by a naturally-aspirated 1.2-litre petrol engine while top-of-the-range models will feature a Suzuki's turbocharged 1.0-litre Boosterjet engine with 82 kW and 170 Nm of torque. Based on the fact that Suzuki SA does not offer the Boosterjet engine in the Baleno in South Africa and it's not expected in the new Swift either, we will be surprised if it makes to our shores in the Jimny, but we hope it does.
The current Jimny is powered by a 63 kW/110 Nm 1.3-litre petrol but we hope the 1.2-litre engine will offer a bit more grunt. A diesel engine option is not expected.
Suzuki is keeping official details under wraps for now but we will keep you updated as soon as more information becomes available.
Buy a new or used Suzuki Jimny on Cars.co.za
Related Content
Suzuki does 'simple' best: Why its success is no surprise
Suzuki's Brand of the Year milestone
Suzuki Swift (2018) International Launch Drive [w/Video]


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Family commitments, work, a leaky gutter on the front of the house and mechanical problems with the van have left me with virtually no hobby time to speak of, but thankfully there's still been a trickle of post-worthy progress and finding myself with the opportunity, I'm making the effort - just to restore my mojo.
I'm not going to do anything daft like saying "Things should start returning to normal" (whatever 'normal' is), because the last time a did that, they didn't!!!
Anyhow, I've hardly lifted a paintbrush over the last month, but was determined to keep things at least ticking over, doing a little bit whenever I got the chance - usually while having a Java Lava before setting off somewhere else in the van.
The result of this plan are presented here.....
A "Bannerman" and another Sergeant for the Takeda round off my total, but there's a Mura clan standard bearer still on the bench as 'work in progress'.
Something I would definitely have mentioned earlier was the Warlord Games "£1.00 sprue sale", where I splashed out and ordered a couple of Modern Military and a Female Survivors sprues for the All Things Zombie campaign (Mentioning ATZ, the sharp eyed among you will have noticed that my "Currently Reading" info box displays the latest version of my favourite zombie game, and I have been giving it a thorough read since its release - expect a review / game report soon.), and a Terminator endo sprue for Bladerunner droids, plus Terminator Resistance fighters - also destined for Bladerunner (and any other Sci-Fi games).
Not only is the number of mini's for a fiver great bang-for-the-bucks, but I received another 10% Off all in store purchases voucher....... all I need now is the time to pay them a visit!
I also picked up issue one of the Games Workshop part work whilst on my travels - three pots of paint and a brush for £1.99 is not the sort of price associated with GW, so how could I resist?
Now, after the painting and collecting, we move on to the interesting part of this post - gaming.
Being away from home and not being able to play was getting me down, and bless her, my wife noticed. Both of us are big fans of The Walking Dead tv series, and she'd been playing a new game on her mobile phone........
DON'T WORRY - THIS IS NOT A POST ABOUT A MOBILE GAME APP !It's OK as a "gaming fix", but here's the revelation..... for the first time (apart from some 'social' D&D sessions with friends) - we were gaming together and not only that, it opened up the opportunity for me to talk her into actually trying a game of ATZ !!
So, it is with great pleasure that I present a brief AAR introducing Jackie.
Jackie and Cory were out on a foraging run in the downtown area of Lubbock - it's normally quiet around here, but the "Differently Dead" seem a lot more active today!
The first PEF has emerged onto the street, but the school bus blocks the line of site
Somehow, while barricading the door, Cory sprained his ankle very badly (Random Event after rolling "doubles" for initiative),
his cry of pain and stream of foul language distracted Jackie, who was sure she'd just spotted someone else out on the street over by the diner entrance (one of the PEF's moving into cover).
The walking cadavers were gathering outside the front of the store, and looking at the state of Cory's ankle, it was no time to risk checking upstairs.
The pair made their way over to the side door and checked for an escape route - a pair of zombies were shuffling along the alley but the crash of broken glass as the store front window gave way under the weight of the swarming undead spurred them on! A blast from Jackie's shotgun took down one of the zeds and cleared a path to safety.
As ever, ATZ:FFO took the game in a completely unexpected direction with the number of zombies generated, and I was worried that my Better Arf wouldn't get as much enjoyment as I'd hoped from such a restricted encounter ("First Impressions" and all that) - however, to my amazement and delight, she loved it !
Many thanks to regular visitors to the blog for your patience, and a big "Hiya" to newcomers Mike and Jonathan. Fingers crossed it won't be another month before the next post!


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Egyptian sand gecko found in my garden | Dahab – Egypt
I´ve found this little guy in my garden and enjoyed taking some real close-up´s of him/her. I don´t have a book or something, but think this one belongs to the Egyptian sand geckos. If anyone out there should be a gecko lover and by chance reading this right now, please let me know, if I´m right or wrong. As it was in the shade, its system was completely shut down and I could built up a small set-up to take some great shots. As I moved him/her in the sun to have some better light (plus I was using my strobe for these macro shots), the sun rays heated up its body and there it went back to whatever it does during its daily life. I was happy with my result, what do you guys think?
On the following photo I just had to add these words – I mean what can I say? Look at him (or maybe her)! Just like a Boss! 😀
Tom is an award-winning photographer and filmmaker and Marine Biologist specializing in conservation imagery & film, photojournalism, and promotional tourism work. Tom has won several awards, his films have been screened on film festivals throughout the world, and his images and stories have been published in dozens of articles in international magazines.
Tom is based in Suva, Fiji Islands and shares his workload between environmental assignments and promotional tourism work throughout the Pacific. In 2020, Tom founded Pacific Media House, a company offering photography & film services all across the Pacific.
Tags: Animals, Dahab, Egypt, gecko, Lizard, Macro, Sinai


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FHP: Episode 102: The Matt Waldman Edition
The full crew is back this week and as we inch closer through the dead season towards the NFL Draft, we welcome in draft and rookie expert Matt Waldman, author and creator of the Rookie Scouting Portfolio to take another look at some guys we think might be helpful in your fantasy football drafts. Is Carlos Henderson legit? And how far away from the big 4 RBs is a guy like Jamaal Williams? We ask the man who would know along with some other sleepers! Check it out!
And on the BS Podcast Network: https://bspodcastnetwork.com/
Please subscribe to The FLAFFL House Fantasy Football Podcast on iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/flaffl-house-podcast/id1084230452https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/the-batman-vs-james-bond-show/id1091423470
Follow The FLAFFL House on Twitter: @flafflhouse
Follow Kevin Cutillon on Twitter: @wallycentral
Follow Sal Leto on Twitter: @letosal
Follow Steve Marcuz on Twitter: @sidskeathttps://www.speakpipe.com/Batmanvsbond
or email us at: firstname.lastname@example.com


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I am trying to remember how I got interested in Maya Angelou – I am guessing that it was Oprah. I think Oprah was interviewing Ms Angelou and they were talking about her book 'I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings". Being curious about literature and wanting to read new (as in new to me) things I got the book.
I remember being shook after reading it. It was hard for me to fathom that this was someone's life since it was so far from my own. It opened my eyes to a lot of different issues: race, poverty, rape. And that's what good books do, right? It's also an uplifting story in a sense that the main character finds a way out through writing and love of literature.
And not for nothing, it's one of the few books I've read multiple times.
Then there is 'Phenomenal Woman' – I mean, that poem blew me away. Poetry is something that felt foreign to me in terms of understanding it. This was one of the first poems that I read and went – wait, this is for me. I can see myself here:
Pretty women wonder where my secret lies,
I'm not cute or built to suit a fashion model's size
But when I start to tell them,
They think I'm telling lies.
I say,
It's in the reach of my arms
The span of my hips,
The stride of my step,
The curl of my lips.
I'm a woman
Phenomenal woman,
That's me.
I mean, seriously. For a young woman (me) who was trying to find her way in the world, and felt on the outside of being traditionally beautiful – this poem hit me at the right time and in the right place. I could be strong and powerful and not be a size 2. Who knew? Maya Angelou did. She was one wise lady.
That is my Maya Angelou story. I know that she had a huge impact on many, many others by telling her story – I think she was a very brave, and wise woman.
Also, if you have a spare moment, stop on the google doodle today – your soul will thank me.


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Frac sand is a kind of high-purity quartz sand that is highly sturdy and has round grains. It is a crush-resistant material that is produced by the petroleum industry for use in the hydraulic fracturing process, which is known as fracking, to deliver oil, flammable gas, and natural-gas fluids from rock units that need sufficient pore space. Globally, the demand for frac sand will be modified by the increasing stimulation of new oil and natural gas wells by the hydraulic fracturing process.
Frac sand is a proppant used as a part of the hydraulic fracturing process of oil drilling. The hydraulic fracturing technique is used as a part of separating oil-based products like oil and flammable gas trapped in rock formations with low porousness. With the development of innovative advances in oil extraction, the market for frac sand is foreseen to have a positive outlook in the coming years. Since the extraction of oil and natural gas from traditional sources has been encountering a decline, it has led to the production of oil from unconventional resources, for example, shale, silica sand, and tight sandstone.
As of recently, oil and gas production from these resources was not thought to be a monetarily reasonable alternative. Unlike the regular oil reserves, oil and gas in these tight petroleum reservoirs don't stream normally through the rocks, making them difficult to extricate. Be that as it may, the introduction of hydraulic fracturing has changed the oil and gas industry, particularly in the US, where shale gas is produced in huge volumes at relatively low expenses.
Commercialization Of Unconventional Resources In Emerging Economies To Drive Market Growth
One of the rising trends spurring the growth prospects for the overall market is the commercialization of unconventional resources in emerging economies. The unconventional oil and gas extraction methods have been popularized by the augmented demand for oil products from the emerging economies of China, India, and the Middle East and Africa. Besides, these countries are also witnessing an increasing demand for energy, driven by the rising income levels. It has been estimated that by 2020, around 3.5 million jobs will be created in the U.S. with the development of unconventional oil and natural gas resources in the region. Because of its impact on employment, the unconventional oil and gas industry isn't just making a contribution to the economic recovery in the U.S., yet additionally boosting its competitive edge in the global economy, which is expected to translate into the increasing demand for frac sand over the coming years.
North America Accounted For The Largest Share Of The Market
On the basis of the geographical analysis, North America dominated the global frac sand market and held over 74% of the overall share of the market, in terms of volume. The growth of the market in this region can be attributed to the positioning of shale gas as an available source of natural gas. In North America, the U.S. is the most dominating nation both in terms of production and consumption. Besides, the vendors in this region are increasingly focusing on reducing the operational costs. They have also inclined more towards the transportation of mined frac sand, which has emerged as a new profitable business for the companies involved in the production of frac sand. Additionally, it has led to an increasing focus on the storage and last-mile delivery of frac sand. This will contribute to the growth of the market in the North American region.
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E Bayou Pines Drive
Great piece of property located in Bayou Pines Office Park. This property is located next to the Hematology Clinic and has great visibility. One of the last pieces of vacant land in Bayou Pines. With the influx of new businesses, you can not expect this piece to last long.


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Match details: United States v Maori All Blacks, Soldier Field, Chicago, 12noon (NZT), Sunday, November 4.
Played: 4
Won: 4, lost 0
Last time: United States 7-54 Maori All Blacks, Chicago, Toyota Park, November 4, 2016
Greatest margin: 68 points (Maori All Blacks won 74-6 at Santa Clara, June 8, 2006-Churchill Cup)
Eight new players could take the field for the Maori All Blacks. New to the team are Wellington lock Isaia Walker-Leawere and Tasman lock Pari Pari Parkinson, flanker Mitch Karpik, wings Regan Ware of Taranaki and Jonah Lowe of Hawke's Bay while those among the substitutes are, hooker Robbie Abel from Auckland, lock Hoani Matenga from Bay of Plenty and loose forward Billy Harmon from Canterbury. Coach Clayton McMillan said some of the latecomers to Chicago, those who played in the Mitre 10 Cup final were a bit 'banged up' as a result of the overtime so they have been managed carefully. He is expecting the bench to provide plenty of impact especially as several of them had been involved in finals rugby. Ware was not originally in the side but was called in as an injury replacement for Caleb Makene who was injured in the Mitre 10 Cup final. He was released by the All Blacks Sevens in order to take part.
Thirteen members of the USA side were part of the team that beat Scotland during the June window with 10 of them in the starting side. Four of the team played in the 2016 game between the two sides: captain Nate Augspurger, lock Nick Civetta, flanker and Southland and former Hawke's Bay representative Tony Lamborn and reserve hooker James Hilterbrand. Civetta plays his rugby for Doncaster in England while Hilterbrand plays for Manly in Sydney. Loosehead prop Chance Wenglewski will be making his debut as will second five-eighths Gannon Moore, who is affiliated with North Harbour in New Zealand rugby. Fullback Luke Hume will be making his first appearance for the side since June 2016 while tighthead prop Paul Mullen plays for the Newcastle Falcons in the England Premiership while lock Ben Landry plays for Ealing. First five-eighths Will Hooley plays for Bedford in England.
USA: Gary Gold (former Springboks assistant coach): "We're facing a huge challenge this weekend with a very polished Maori All Blacks side. The group of guys selected have all proven they can meet that challenge over the last week and a half of training. We know that when Saturday (Sunday NZT) comes, we'll need to show an unmatched patience and consistency within our game plan to deliver the results we know we are capable of."
Maori All Blacks: Clayton McMillan: "They'll [USA] be what we expect from a lot of American athletes, big, strong, a direct style of rugby, a lot of mauling…a very physical encounter. We're prepared to match fire with fire but want to be smart and use a bit of width as well. We need to respect the fact that the Eagles have some power up front. They have tall timber and we need to ensure we get our share of quality ball to give our backs the opportunity to play and to have a mindset of spreading the ball and doing justice to the Maori jersey."
??? TEAM NAMING | The Maori All Blacks side to face the USA in Chicago has been named.
FULL SQUAD ?? https://t.co/iUXboK5sQw pic.twitter.com/z0cT23DmJp— All Blacks (@AllBlacks) November 2, 2018


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Stephen Aftanas, B.A., LL.B., ICD.D
Corporate Secretary, Emera Inc.
Chair since: 2018
Email: email@example.com
Stephen Aftanas is Chair of the Maritime Chapter. He is Corporate Secretary of Emera Inc., a geographically diverse energy and services company headquartered in Halifax, Nova Scotia. The company invests in electricity generation, transmission and distribution, gas transmission and distribution, and utility energy services with a strategic focus on transformation from high carbon to low carbon energy sources. It has investments throughout North America, and in four Caribbean countries. Emera's common and preferred shares are listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange and it has depositary receipts representing common shares of Emera listed on the Barbados Stock Exchange and on The Bahamas International Securities Exchange.
Stephen joined Emera in August 2002 and provided legal services to the Emera group of companies before being appointed Corporate Secretary of Emera in 2008. Prior to joining Emera in 2002, Stephen practiced corporate, commercial, estate administration, intellectual property and aboriginal law, first in Winnipeg, and then in Halifax.
Administrative Contact
Stephen Aftanas, ICD.D (Chair)
David Nunn, ICD.D (Past Chair)
Jennifer Berry
Janice Brown
Andrea Forbes Hurley
Margaret McKee, ICD.D
Robert Patzelt, ICD.D
Maria Sanderson
Leah White
Rachelle Gagnon, NB Chair
Maria Sanderson, PEI Chair
Lea Bryden
Alex MacBeath ICD. D
Amy MacFarlane


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Visiting the 2018 Superyacht Design Symposium
The 2018 Superyacht Design Symposium and Boat International Design & Innovation Awards will be held at K3 KitzKongress, a convention center in the idyllic centre of Kitzbühel.
For more information about the location, venue and recommended accommodation for the 2018 Superyacht Design Symposium, please read below.
Guests wishing to extend their stay in Kitzbühel can take advantage of the three top secret experiences as recommended by Kitzbühel Tourist Board. Click here to find out more!
Superyacht Design Symposium venue
The Superyacht Design Symposium will be held in an exciting new and modern convention centre, K3 KitzKongress, in the idyllic centre of Kitzbühel close to the famous Hahnenkamm mountain.
Opened in 2010, the K3 KitzKongress holds a unique atmosphere in a region where lifestyle meets tradition and mountains which in turn provides a rich source of inspiration. Adopting a particularly sustainable and responsible approach the K3 KitzKongress will make for a perfect venue for this year's Symposium.
Read more about the K3 KitzKongress at www.kitzkongress.at


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In case you missed it, Ultraman Taiga was announced as the exciting new chapter in the Ultra Heroes franchise. Since the initial announcement, a new teaser went live on YouTube showcasing each of the new Ultras in motion.
In addition, we also have a premiere date: July 6th 2019! In the meantime, you can watch the teaser in the box below:


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By Douglas Anele
According to James S. Coleman in his Nigeria: Background to Nationalism, "Dr. Azikiwe is reported to have sent a post-election letter to Mr. Awolowo proposing that their two parties form an alliance that …would force the government to concede to us a better constitution whose provisions would make party politics more effective." Although according to available information Chief Awolowo prevaricated somewhat initially, it is on record that the NCNC-AG alliance played out in the 1953 constitutional conferences which helped to bring about the Lyttleton constitution of 1954. For example, in one of the conferences, Anthony Enahoro tabled a motion on behalf of the two parties in the Federal House of Representatives calling for Nigeria's independence in three years' time, that is, 1956. The northern majority in the House were adamant: they actually replaced '1956' with the more modest but vague objective of attaining independence "when practicable", which actually meant "when the north is ready for it".
For Ahmadu Bello particularly, granting independence to the country on the date proposed by Enahoro would be suicidal for the north since the region was economically backward relative to the southern regions and lacked adequate western-educated manpower to administer it efficiently according to the principles and practice of modern political economy. With the benefit of hindsight, one wonders why Azikiwe, Awolowo and other southern leaders lacked the unity of purpose to insist on having a republic of southern Nigeria first pending when the northern region would be ready, to pave way for a renegotiation of the basis for Nigerian unity – if possible or desirable.
There seems to be a consensus among commentators that the 1959 election that preceded independence was rigged in favour of the north, especially the NPC. Going back eight years, in the indirect regional elections held in 1951, NPC working in concert with the colonial officials ensured that NEPU failed to achieve the level of electoral victory it deserved given its popularity among the masses. That said, keep in mind that conservative northern leaders benefiting from the feudal system regularly used intimidation and threat of secession to get concessions from their southern counterparts and the British officials.
For example, with the blackmail of secession they demanded and eventually got for the northern region more seats in the federal parliament than the eastern and western regions put together, which implies that no meaningful decision by government affecting the whole country can be taken without support from the north. Some might endorse the strategy as a good example of political sagacity or realpolitik. However, the effects have been devastating, because it led to hubristic negative triumphalism by the conservative wing of the northern establishment and resentment in the south given that the latter carries disproportionately the economic burden of the country as a whole, notwithstanding the revisionist falsehood of southern dependence on the north peddled by Prof. Ango Abdullahi and a few northern irredentists.
Despite British colonial rigging of the 1959 federal election to favour the NPC, including the fact that although both the NCNC and AG each had more votes than the party, NPC had by far more seats in the central legislature (134) than the other two parties with 81 and 73 seats respectively. Chinweizu argues, correctly, that had proportional representation been applied, the NCNC-NEPU alliance which garnered 3,103,627 votes (or 40% of total votes cast) would have had most seats and produced the Prime Minister. Alternatively, had Azikiwe and Awolowo set aside their animosity and pulled together, their coalition would have had 164 seats compared to NPC's 148. And the Governor-General and Balewa's bosom friend, Sir James Robertson, would have been obliged to ask the NCNC-AG alliance to form the government at independence.
There are two interesting accounts concerning the emergence of Sir Tafawa Balewa of NPC as the Prime Minister instead of Dr. Azikiwe or Chief Awolowo that most Nigerians are unaware of but which, if things had been otherwise, might have changed the trajectory of Nigerian history profoundly. The first one, as reported by Chinweizu, is that Sir Robertson, Nigeria's last British governor-general, confessed that in 1959 he asked Balewa to form the government by persuading some of the southern members of parliament to support him, and that Sir Abubakar assured him he would get a southern group that would agree with the decision. Robertson did this before the results were released in full because he wanted to pacify the Sardauna of Sokoto, leader of the NPC to prevent the latter from pulling the northern region out of Nigeria.
The second account reflects the inability of Dr. Azikiwe and Chief Awolowo to reach a common ground at the critical moment so that one of them would become Prime Minister instead of Alhaji Balewa. Azikiwe had been blamed particularly by loyalists of Awolowo for preferring to align with NPC rather than with the AG. In my opinion, that is partially correct, which is probably an unfortunate outcome of the disappointment felt by NCNC leaders as a result of the carpet crossing episode of 1952. However, Chief Mbazulike Amaechi, a diehard supporter of Dr. Azikiwe, presented a different perspective on the issue about eight years ago. According to Chief Amaechi, after the 1959 election when it became obvious that a coalition government must be formed to take over from the departing British colonialists, a delegation from the AG went to discuss the matter with NCNC leaders in Azikiwe's Onitsha residence. It proposed that both parties should form an alliance such that Azikiwe would become Prime Minister while Awolowo would serve as the finance minister. While the discussion was on, Azikiwe went upstairs to answer a telephone call. Upon his return, Azikiwe told the AG delegation that the NCNC would consider AG's proposal and send a delegation back to Chief Awolowo.
When the AG delegation left, Dr. Azikiwe informed the NCNC leaders present that the telephone call he went to answer was from the Sardauna of Sokoto and that the Sardauna had informed him of a delegation from Chief Awolowo which visited him offering NPC precisely what the other delegation that just left them offered their own party, the NCNC. Probably concluding that AG is a double-headed snake, Dr. Azikiwe decided to negotiate with the Sardauna. During the negotiation, Ahmadu Bello insisted that the north should produce the Prime Minister, otherwise they were not ready for independence. In the agreement to end British colonial rule signed at Lancaster House, it was agreed that if any region said it was not ready for independence, the process will be postponed until all regions were willing to go ahead. According to Chief Amaechi, northern leaders took advantage of that agreement. Dr. Azikiwe and top leaders of the NCNC reasoned that having fought and sacrificed so much for political freedom, it was preferable to allow the north produce the first Prime Minister so that independence would be attained as soon as possible.
While a plausible case can be made that the British skewed the elections and the processes leading to independence in order to favour their acolytes from the north, southern political leaders especially Dr. Azikiwe and Chief Awolowo are also to be blamed for allowing them get away with it relatively easily. Now, the decision of Sir James Robertson to hand over political leadership to his friend Balewa means that the British colonial administration was not interested in allowing the most qualified Nigerians to lead the country after independence due to the likelihood that a cerebral leadership headed by such a person, like Dr. Azikiwe or Chief Awolowo for instance, would not be easily manipulated to continue servicing British economic interests which was the overarching motivation for British imperialism in Africa. Thus, despite attempts by the British to prop up Balewa (a school teacher with inferior academic credentials and cognate experience in modern democratic leadership when compared to leading politicians from the south) as a statesman, Balewa was not the most suitable politician to be Nigeria's Prime Minister at independence because there are better alternatives from the south – and even from the north, such as Mallam Aminu Kano.
To be continued…


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A positive lifestyle for women over 50 includes the continuation of being relevant. And one avenue you may want to explore is feeling relevant on the internet
Relevancy begins within each of us. We take pride in our accomplishments because when a woman feels accomplished, she does not feel invisible. Remember: 80 percent of a woman's beauty comes from within – her personality, her smile and her mind.
As a woman over 50, you should have interests. You should interact with others. You should have an open mind, both to seek new endeavors and to expand on old endeavors. You should not retire from life, but dive into it.
It is important not to be too hard on yourself. If you enjoy what you are doing, don't give up. Keep trying and expanding your horizons. All of these trials will provide you with relevancy… your inner feeling of visibility.
A rough day on the course
One beautiful day on the seventeenth hole of the golf course I heard the phrase, "I would have killed myself." It was one of those days where I could not hit the ball. I had taken a minimum of 256 swings at a ball that looks like a hard-boiled egg! I was not a bad golfer. I was just a 22 handicap on that sunny day, but I would not give up.
My hardship continued for more than two hours. I was so frustrated I could have cried. I tried everything my instructors had taught me. I looked at my grip, thought about my stance and posture, eyed my target and continuously missed the shot. It was not a laughing matter for me or for the friends I was playing with that day. Though I got to my ball on time, I was holding them up. Again, I would not give up.
I kept my cool and smiled through the tears without complaining. I wished I could scream, walk off the course and quit. My father, a six handicap golfer, taught me that golf is a gentleman's game. I never forgot his words and I remained true to his teachings.
On the seventeenth hole I walked up to the tee box, where a friend was standing awaiting her turn. "I can't believe how well you have contained yourself," she said. "If I had been you, I would have killed myself!"
I laughed, proud of my good sportsmanship. I felt relevant and visible.
Keeping that in mind, I approached that little white ball and gave it such a crack that it flew far out onto the fairway. Instantly, everyone including myself, looked up in shock and screamed at my perfect shot.
Remembering advice
I was back in action and back in the game. What was the difference between that shot and my other 256+ tries? I recalled two previous lessons I had learned. One was from an older, more experienced woman golfer who, days before, had watched me practicing.
"Susan, turn your ass and hit the grass," she said.
I was shocked by her statement and couldn't help but laugh. In other words, a golfer cannot hit the ball unless they make a good turn, and I was not turning until the seventeenth hole.
The other advice I recalled, as I went to take my swing that sunny day, were my husband's words, "Let the F…er fly!" And dear readers, that ball flew. It only took one second for me to become visible.
I have since put my golf clubs somewhat out to pasture.
The technology takeover
What has taken their place?
Google, my MacBook Air and my iPhone. I am in touch with the world and I am as visible as I choose. I am relevant always. And…
I am infatuated. I have an ongoing romance with my computer and phone. I am like a kid in the candy store when it comes to my email. I come home and rush to my desk where I can be in immediate contact with girlfriends, children, grandchildren, business contacts and you dear readers of mine. It is so easy.
No invention since the printing press, television or golf clubs has been so life-altering for the world… and yours truly. It is revolutionary. The internet has changed my life, all for the better. I am anything but invisible. I am 100% relevant within my soul.
It saves time. Rather than talking on the phone I simply send an email, "Want to grab dinner and see a movie?" Or I send a text to my children and grandchildren, "Can you talk in five?" It takes less than a minute. I can sign papers, meet business contacts and send my working honeybees at HoneyGood.com a million emails a day. (It drives them up a wall, but I truly love them and they love me.)
It is a whole new way of being friends with people, whether intimate or not.
Feeling relevant on the internet
I am updating my site via email with drawings, color palettes and wire frames appearing instantly in my inbox. I can have four-way conversations online, visualizing the drawings as I watch my web designer and artist make changes. As I watch in awe, I can make comments in real time. It is fascinating and I am relevant by learning and doing. I am not aging, but rather growing.
Then there is Google. OMG, I am in love with Google. I learn by using it every day. Interested in seeing a resort you'd like to visit? Google it. Looking for an address to a restaurant? Google it. Need a statistic? Google it. Want to learn just about anything? Google it.
As with all good things in life, there are some downfalls.
I have so many emails, I feel as if I am going to drown. When Safari is down, I cannot just Google it. If I lose an email, there is nothing I can do. If I cannot find my iPhone, I feel lost. Yet, I still feel relevant because I have to solve my problems.
My advice to you dear readers is simple: Take up a sport. Join a club. Do charity work. Work on your friendships. Travel. Stay fit. Go back to school. Redecorate your home. Entertain. Be proactive about your health. Need more ideas? Google it… because the world will become your oyster and one path may be feeling relevant on the internet.
Got to go, I have a question to ask Google!


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|Paul Smith <psm...@aconex.com>
|Use of In-like query and performance implications
|Thu, 03 Mar 2005 04:14:44 GMT
If I had a query of the form (assuming this gets converted to Lucene-speak) Org=X or Folder In(g,h,i,j,.....) or Public=true Having a field for Org, and Public is easy, but the Folder field In-like clause (which would be converted into OR's) could potentially have quite a few in the clause. my question is, is there any performance concerns here if ("...In(g,h,i,j,....) ") starts getting longer and longer? Can Lucene handle this in an optimal manner, without a serious scalability issue ? (memory/cpu/io etc). Or would it be better that a different design is used gor this? Paul Smith --------------------------------------------------------------------- To unsubscribe, e-mail: email@example.com For additional commands, e-mail: email@example.com
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Printer Geek » Search results
Search results for query "4500" (1):
Feb 11, 2010
HP Expands Officejet Portfolio With Officejet 4500 All-In-One Printer
HP today expanded its award-winning HP Officejet portfolio with its most affordable flatbed all-in-one printer.
The company also announced the worldwide availability of the HP Creative Studio for Business, a comprehensive online resource to help customers grow and market their small businesses.
Introduced at the 2010 Macworld Conference & Exposition, the new HP Officejet 4500 All-in-One series brings professional quality color printing, wired and wireless connectivity, and four-in-one functionality to the home office at a low cost per page…


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Film Series: Surrealist Cinema
In conjunction with the exhibition The Conjured Life: The Legacy of Surrealism, join us Friday afternoons in February and March for a four-part film series exploring the rich tradition of Surrealist cinema, spanning from the movement's origins in 1920s France through the 1980s and encompassing an eclectic mix of genres and styles including experimental narrative, found footage, essay films, animation, and collage. Featured artists include Marcel Duchamp, Man Ray, Jean Cocteau, Salvador Dali, Luis Buñuel, Maya Deren, Jean Genet, Chris Marker, Samuel Beckett, and more.
Surrealism's Cinematic Afterlives (1963 - 1986)
La Jetée (1963, Dir. Chris Marker, 29min)
Film (1965, Dir. Alan Schneider, 22min)
Street of Crocodiles (1986, Dir. Stephen & Timothy Quay, 20mins)
Total runtime: 71 minutes
The films will continually screen in the order above starting at 1PM and ending at 4PM. Visitors are encouraged to drop in and out of the screening as their schedule allows.
Image: Still from Street of Crocodiles (1986), courtesy Zeitgeist Films
Free and open to the public.


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Crime watch
Anyone with information about these or other crimes can call the appropriate Crimestoppers number. Callers can be anonymous; a reward of as much as $1,000 will be paid for information leading to an arrest.
Crimestoppers of Morgan and Scott Counties
Submit tips anonymously at tipsubmit.com, by calling 217-243-7300 or by text messaging CRIMES (274637) with "payout" as the first word of the tip.
• Crimestoppers is seeking information to assist the Morgan County Sheriff's Department with its investigation of a theft.
Anhydrous ammonia was removed recently from a business in the 1300 block of Leach Farm Road.
Two Rivers Crime Stoppers
Serves Calhoun, Greene and Jersey counties. Submit tips to 1-800-300-2590.
Schuyler County Crimestoppers
Call 217-322-3326
Pike County Crimestoppers
Call 217-285-1500
Wanted on warrants
The following are being sought on arrest warrants, according to the various sheriff's departments. The addresses listed are the last known addresses provided by the warrants and may be outdated.
Morgan County
• Alexandria R. Wickenhauser, 33, of 103 W. Cherry St., Winchester, is being sought on a warrant accusing her of theft.
She is a white female standing 5-foot-4 and weighing 110 pounds. She has brown hair and blue eyes.
• Franklin B. Harris, 47, of 824 Elk Crest, Chatham, is being sought on a warrant accusing him of failing to appear in court on a charge of driving while license is suspended.
He is a white male standing 6-foot-2 and weighing 220 pounds. He is bald and has brown eyes.
Greene, Calhoun and Jersey counties
• Craig E. Stauffer, 22, of 55A Belleview Hollow, Nebo, is being sought on a warrant accusing him of unlawful restraint and aggravated domestic battery with strangulation.
He is a white male standing 5-foot-8 and weighing 180 pounds. He has brown hair and green eyes.
• Erick L. Howell, 28, of 22822 Green Acres Road, Dow, is being sought on a warrant accusing him of driving while license is revoked.
He is a white male standing 5-foot-9 and weighing 150 pounds. He has brown hair and blue eyes.


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Lieto Preparing For Kona In Mammoth Lakes
As he did in preparation for last year's Ironman World Championship, Chris Lieto is spending time training with some of the world's top distance runners.
As he did in preparation for last year's Ironman World Championship, American Chris Lieto is spending time training with some of the world's top distance runners in Mammoth Lakes, Calif.
Lieto talked to ESPN.com about his goal of improving his run time. Lieto told ESPN's Adam Watson he is going on several runs above 10,000 feet and thinks a Kona victory is possible: "The bar keeps getting raised, so it's not going to get any easier because I finished second last year," Lieto said. "But I definitely have the ability to take home the win."


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Bogey men
When I was a little kid, probably about six or seven years old, I had this recurring nightmare: A tall thin man would float outside my second floor bedroom window. He was always dressed in a black business suit, and had a gaunt profile with thinning white hair. I could never quite make out his features through the slats of the window blinds. Bright golden sunlight would stream into my room from behind him, rendering me completely immobile as he watched. And he would just laugh and laugh and laugh.
Even typing those words today give me chills like you wouldn't believe.
There's something so utterly creepy about the simplest imagery that just roots into a little kid's mind and soul. Never once in my dreams did this bogey man try to grab me or even pass through my window. He had no bloody hand, clown mask or giant scythe with which to threaten me. There was a stare and laughter. His presence was enough to startle me awake, and that sort of palpable atmosphere of fear is difficult to translate into words, much less pictures.
Difficult, but clearly not impossible. Horror comics are nothing new, stretching back in popularity to post-World War II America. Genuine terrors seen abroad made way for tales to titillate young readers, with gruesome fates being meted out every month. Where a bulk of comics (or movies, or books, or video games) since may have fallen short is in overemphasizing the literal. We've all read stories where the monstrous form of a child's nightmare takes physical shape, splashing blood and brain matter across the page as if it were errant paint on a canvas. Gore may rile the senses, but the subtlety of a bogey man that looks like everyone else, who passes through life unnoticed except to his victims, generates a far more permanent effect. When only YOU can see or feel the horror that is coming to get you — and the panic starts to wiggle almost unnoticeably beneath the skin of your arms and belly — that's when true fear starts to set in.
No one knows this better than Scott Snyder. Co-writing with Scott Tuft, Snyder delivers Severed, a prime example of just how terrifying the bogey man can be — especially if he looks just like every one else. Published in 2011 by Image Comics, this seven issue series flashes back on the story of 12 year-old Jack, who has run away from home in 1916 to find his long-lost father. Eager to find a sense of his own identity out on the road, Jack quickly falls in with a traveling companion named Sam, as well as an older mentor figure who just happened to eat the last boy he retrieved from an Illinois orphanage. Adopting the name Alan Fisher from the man he just killed for it, Snyder and Tuft's bogeyman casually comes upon the pair in the park as Jack plays his violin for coins. He looks every bit like a man two kids without a roof over their heads could trust. So when "Alan" offers the pair food and a few beers back at his place, Jack agrees without hesitation.
Having just left the secure comfort of his adopted home, Jack is not prepared for the horrors that have been awaiting him out in the cold. That said, Alan is at his most terrifying when his hand is comforting and his appearance remains thoroughly banal. Attila Futaki's illustrative style draws a brilliant balance between the everyday and uncanny as he moves the camera's eye from panel to panel. Much of the true horror of Alan's threat is ever unseen, only alluded to in a plate of chicken bones, or reserved for large single page reveals. Moment to moment, Futaki maintains the characters' bearings with calm line and subdued environments — as if to render a certain artificial calmness about their interactions.
As a result, we witness Alan's demeanor to be so compellingly trustworthy to Jack that even bringing out an enormous bear-trap to the dining room table seems no more suspicious than any other party game. And to some degree, we momentarily trust as well. Certainly Jack is desperate for a father figure, so it's understandable that he would simultaneously be drawn to a man who could fill that role and assist him in locating his actual father. But the further along this road Jack travels, the more we're left hanging on the edge of our seats in anticipation for an inevitable, terrifying reveal. We know the teeth have been removed, but what lies beyond them is where the truly frightful awaits.
Similarly, Snyder also introduces an exceptionally chilling bogey man in the form of James Gordon Jr. in the collected tale Batman: The Black Mirror. Completing original publication from DC Comics' monthly Detective Comics in 2011 as well, Black Mirror centers on the return of the long lost son of perennial Batman associate Commissioner Gordon. Far from a happy reunion, James Jr. is met with hesitation and dread, for his reemergence from the shadows outside Gotham City means investigations of the past are reopened — suspicions of his true culpability behind a childhood disappearance still weigh heavily on his family.
Even more than in the obscured bogey man of Severed, Snyder develops an antagonist in James Jr. that leaves the reader guessing at every turn. We are no more sure than the Commissioner of his son's guilt as the story evolves. Having been considered odd from the youngest age — seemingly devoid of emotion even as an infant — James Jr. appears to epitomize the profile for Batman's more traditional, psychologically challenging foes. Yet his calm demeanor and easily explained activities make for a much more ambiguous villain. James Jr. is Gotham's usual psychopathic terror turned inside out, an internalized horror well contained in contrast with the usual externalized embodiment of chaos and misery. Likewise, James Jr. is also an inversion of the standard bogey man mythology in that he is originally a child who is feared by adults, not the other way around. When a friend of Barbara Gordon (the Commissioner's more famous and heroic progeny) goes missing after calling young James Jr. "creepy," Barbara's suspicions immediately go towards her brother, but their father remains torn even fifteen years later. This is the power of the bogey man, not only to terrorize, but to convince the world at the very same time he doesn't actually exist.
Sharing artistic duties in this volume with the remarkable talent Jock, Francesco Francavilla illustrates most of the story Snyder lays out for James Jr., from his arrival on video at the Gotham aviary to his ultimate confrontation with his much less conflicted sister. At times Francavilla depicts James Jr. as a hovering monster, whose opaque red glasses imply deeply disturbing thoughts ready to manifest themselves with the flick of a wrist. For most of the narrative, however, the artist maintains the same terrible sense of banality we see in Severed, but in flattened day-glo tones that scream danger without having to depict it literally. So little of Gotham is ever seen in daylight, but even at night, James Jr. remains more thoroughly darkened than would otherwise — his own shadow even extending over the faces of his more illuminated family members as they interact or discuss his condition.
Scott Snyder and his collaborators have managed to craft on paper that indescribable unease we often can only experience in dreams, or if terribly unlucky, in real life. It's been over 30 years since I dreamed of that floating man outside my bedroom window. While I may still shiver recalling the vision, I'm pretty confident those nightmares won't be returning to involuntarily taunt my adult brain. Whether there will soon be another bogey man lined up to replace him? Of that, I am now less sure.
Matt Santori-Griffith owns one business suit, three pairs of shoes, and over 15,000 comic books. He works a day job as an art director for several non-profit organizations, but spends his dark nights and weekends fighting the good fight on Twitter.com in the guise of @FotoCub. He has not yet saved the world, but isn't giving up quite yet.