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Posted by Rabbi John Rosove
It has taken me five years to read Sari Nusseibeh's autobiography since it was first published in 2007. I now recommend it to anyone interested in understanding the Palestinian experience during the past 45 years. That experience is brought to light by this brilliant and sensitive witness who celebrates Palestinian national life on the one hand and is a harsh critic of it on the other.
Sari Nusseibeh is President of Al Quds University in Jerusalem and Professor of Philosophy. Called the "Philosopher of the Revolution" by his friend and mentor Faisal Husseini, in the 1990s Nusseibeh emerged as the point person in Jerusalem before the consular corps for Yassir Arafat. Yet, Nusseibeh spares little in criticizing Arafat himself, the PA and Hamas charging that Arafat failed his people at Camp David in 2000 when he had the chance to close a deal for a Palestinian state.
Nusseibeh was arrested a number of times and imprisoned not for any violent act, but rather for his consistently peaceful and moderate advocacy of a negotiated two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. For this he was called by some Israeli security hawks as "the most dangerous Palestinian alive."
Though a witness and/or a victim to daily degradation, confiscation of land, imprisonment, deportation, threats, and violence, Nusseibeh has argued for decades that Israelis and Palestinians are, in truth, not enemies at all, but natural strategic allies. Respectful of the State of Israel and of Judaism itself, when others among his PLO colleagues sought to deny the historic roots of Judaism in Jerusalem, Nusseibeh called those Jewish roots "existential and umbilical."
None of this means, however, that Sari Nusseibeh is a "good Palestinian" by Israeli right-wing standards. He hates Israel's occupation of the West Bank, its military harshness, its security fence, and its ever-expanding settlements.
After the outbreak of the 2nd Intifada in 2001 when all seemed chaotic and going up in smoke, Dr. Nusseibeh was approached by former Israeli Shin Bet Chief, General Ami Ayalon, to craft a statement of principles. That statement would affirm the creation of two states for two peoples with the border running roughly along the 1967 lines, the capitals of each country based in Jerusalem and a just and reasonable solution to the refugee problem. It would be signed by 300,000 Israelis and 175,000 Palestinians.
Nusseibeh is a pragmatist and he knew that the Palestinians would have to give up their right of return if there were ever to be a Palestinian state. He even engaged in a very public yelling match on this point with Machmud Abbas in the presence of Arafat where Nusseibeh screamed in frustration, "Either you want an independent state or a policy aimed at returning all the refugees to Israel. You can't have it both ways."
In addressing the heart of this conflict, Nusseibeh wrote the following:
"Isn't this inability to imagine the lives of the 'other' at the heart of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict?...The average Israeli [seeks] security and a Jewish state, and the average Palestinian [seeks] freedom from occupation…Israelis need to know that for them to keep their Jewish state requires a free Palestinian state along the 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital. Palestinians need to know that to get their state requires acknowledging the moral right of Israel to exist as a Jewish state. There can be no blanket right of return into Israel for the refugees…If both sides fail in this out of expediency or weakness, we'll find ourselves one day in a hybrid state that fulfills neither the Israeli quest for a Jewish state, nor the national Palestinian quest for an Arab state." (p. 446)
Once Upon A Country – A Palestinian Life is a great book because of the intelligence, passion and courage of its author. It is an essential read.
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February 23, 2012 | 7:51 pm
Posted by Rabbi John Rosove
For the 8th year on campuses around the world, the "Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions" (BDS) movement is organizing for Israel Apartheid Week to take place during the next several weeks.
Israel Apartheid Week is part of an international delegitimization campaign against the state of Israel led by the international Palestinian solidarity movement. The delegitimizers equate the racist apartheid regime of the former South Africa with Israel in its policies towards Palestinians living in Israel and the West Bank. However, even a cursory comparison between the old South African apartheid regime and the democratic State of Israel negates the equivalence.
In "An open letter to Archbishop Desmond Tutu" by Warren Goldstein, chief rabbi of South Africa, published in the International Jerusalem Post (November 12-18, 2010), Rabbi Goldstein wrote:
"…Israel has no Population Registration Act, no Group Areas Act, no Mixed Marriages and Immorality act, no Separate Representation of Voters Act, no Separate Amenities Act, no pass laws or any of the myriad apartheid laws. To the contrary, Israel is a vibrant liberal democracy and accords full political, religious and other human rights to all its peoples, including its more than one million Arab citizens, many of whom hold positions of authority including that of cabinet minister, Member of Parliament, and judge at every level, including that of the Supreme Court. All citizens vote on the same roll in regular, multiparty elections. There are Arab parties and Arab members of other parties in Israel's parliament. Arabs and Jews share all public facilities, including hospitals and malls, buses, cinemas and parks, universities and cultural [venues]".
Rabbi Goldstein's claims are true, but this is not to say that Arab citizens of Israel enjoy the same benefits and rights that Israeli Jews enjoy such as equal access to government funds and services, and the right to live anywhere in the state of Israel. The reality in which Israel's own Arab citizens live coupled with the injustices experienced by Palestinians living in the West Bank must be addressed if Israel is to maintain its democratic institutions and traditions.
Palestinian Arabs living in the West Bank have a different status from Israeli Arab citizens and are treated accordingly. They are not Israeli citizens and they do not enjoy the same protections as do those living in Israel. For them, their fight is and has always been one against occupation. We Jews may not like that claim, but it is a legitimate one born of a century of neglect by Arab and world powers who callously used the local Arab population as game pieces on a shifting board of changing geopolitical aims. While the case can be made that Israel's strong and often harsh security measures imposed on Palestinian Arabs living in the West Bank are a necessary evil in light of terrorism, we cannot ignore the fact that holding this territory for more than 44 years and keeping the residents there under occupation has had a corrupting moral influence on Israeli troops who have served in the West Bank and upon Israel as a whole. Even
David Ben Gurion recognized the dangers of occupation when he said in 1967: "Return [the captured territory] immediately, even if no one wants it back; return it."
The foundational Zionist dream as reflected in Israel's Declaration of Independence did not envision the Jewish people becoming military occupiers nor did they anticipate the corrosive effects that occupation would have both upon the Arabs and the Jews. However, this truth does not equate to apartheid.
Relative to Israel Apartheid Week I recommend the following piece by Brad Burston that appeared yesterday in Haaretz: "It's Israeli Apartheid Week. Just tell the truth."
February 15, 2012 | 1:14 pm
Posted by Rabbi John Rosove
Several have written to ask me what Israelis are thinking about Iran. Since I have arrived here I have been asking that question of everyone I encounter. All I need to say is "Yes or No?" and everyone knows what I am talking about. Everyone is thinking and worrying about Iran, but going about their daily lives as if there is no problem at all. The cafes are full. Kids are in school. People are going to work, seeing friends, and celebrating Shabbat with their families and dear ones.
Two very plugged-in Israeli friends, each of whom is close to the leadership of the country, had opposite views. One said to me, "I think it is a 90% probability that Israel will attack Iran between March and June of this year, because Israel simply cannot allow Iran to become nuclear." The other said the opposite. "It isn't going to happen. There will not be a war. It's not in anyone's interest. Pakistan has a bomb. We've got the bomb. So what!?"
Part of the angst that people naturally feel both here and in America is fed by the media that reports everything related to Iran's nuclear program. The rhetoric and saber rattling is noisy, harsh and relentless. Yes, Iran has a brutal anti-Semitic government obsessively fixated on Israel and we would be fools to ignore the threat the Iranians pose. However, conventional wisdom says that if there is talk about it, it isn't going to happen. When the talk stops, then we should worry.
It is the thinking of many here that Prime Minister Netanyahu and Defense Minister Barak have ratcheted up the rhetoric as a strategic move to pressure President Obama to push harder on sanctions and hopefully provoke protests in Iran that will lead to regime change. Sanctions are having a biting effect and anything could ignite street protests leading to an Iranian spring.
In this election year, an attack against and possible war with Iran led by the United States is remote in the view of most observers. It is the same for Netanyahu who is considering calling early elections to solidify his current popularity in a new Knesset.
If either Israel or the United States were to initiate an attack, Israel can expect missiles to fall on Tel Aviv. When Israelis are killed as a consequence of either Bibi or Obama making the first move, both can reasonably expect to suffer at the polls in their respective re-election bids.
What are Israelis thinking? Everything!
Do they believe there will be a war? Some yes – others no.
Will there be a war? Who knows?
I have also asked everyone here another question - my young ulpan teacher, senior citizens, soldiers, human rights activists, rabbis, working Israelis, everyone I talk to -"Are you an optimist or a pessimist about the future?" To a person each smiles and says, "Yes, I'm an optimist! I couldn't live here if I didn't feel optimistic."
I too worry, but in the end I agree with most Israelis. Call me an idealist, a romantic, an optimist, a fool. But as I too tend to say what Israelis say, Yehiye b'seder (Everything – God willing - will be fine.)
Shalom mi'Yerushalayim.
February 14, 2012 | 4:26 pm
Posted by Rabbi John Rosove
Israel's democracy had several significant victories this past week:
First, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu appointed as the next President of the Supreme Court Asher Dan Grunis, a jurist who respects an independent judiciary. There are those in Israel who do not.
Second, the Knesset is expected to pass overwhelmingly next week a bill against sex trafficking by making it a crime to pay for prostitution. Sex trafficking has reached epidemic proportions in recent years with an estimated 15,000 individuals working in the prostitution industry, of whom 5000 are minors. Violence and abuse are common, and targeting clients will dramatically discourage demand by diminishing supply.
Third, the most serious general labor strike in the last two decades ended yesterday with a victory for the poor with a rise in the minimum wage and more benefits for many contract workers.
Fourth, Israel's Attorney-General Yehuda Weinstein announced that he will decide this spring whether or not to indict Foreign Minister Avigdor Lieberman on charges of fraud, breach of trust, fraudulent receipt, money-laundering and witness harassment.
And fifth, op-ed articles appear in every newspaper criticizing the government and nation's leaders attesting to the strength of Israel's free press.
All the above show how vital is Israel's democracy, indeed, the only functioning democracy in this part of the world. Not only do Israelis enjoy free elections, but Israel's democratic institutions are strong. Free elections without democratic institutions are meaningless, as we are seeing in Egypt and Gaza where elections ushered in anti-democratic parties whose goal is to subjugate the population to a new tyranny of the majority.
In every democracy there are flaws, imperfections and abuses. Such is the case in Israel too. The following news release today is unflattering to Israel and the Jewish people.
I believe this report to be generally true based on the work of two Israeli human rights organizations, B'tzelem and Shalom Achshav. Though this report is the product of a UN investigative body, this does not necessarily mean it is anti-Israel propaganda.
The story:
A UN investigation charged that Israel has strategically "Judaized" its housing policies vis a vis Palestinians living in the West Bank and East Jerusalem, and Bedouin living in the Negev.
The announcement was made yesterday by Raquel Rolnik, Special Rapporteur of the UN Human Rights Council, on the right to adequate housing and non-discrimination. Ms. Rolnik, a Brazilian architect and urbanist, recently visited Israel and the West Bank where she met with representatives of the Israeli government, Palestinian Authority and international organizations. She visited Tel Aviv, Haifa, the Negev, Galilee, East Jerusalem, Ramallah, and the Gaza Strip.
Ms. Rolnik said that in the past Israel had an impressive housing record on affordable housing for all its people, but the situation has deteriorated over the last 20 years.
Among her claims is that state land goes for the highest price to maximize profitability, thus forcing Palestinians to move who cannot afford their homes, and that Palestinians and Bedouin suffer from discriminatory practices and land expropriation. She found that Palestinians cannot easily get permits to build or expand their existing homes. As their families grow (it is customary for all the generations in a family to live together in a single dwelling) many resort to adding add onto their homes without permits to accommodate the increased numbers of people.
Tens of thousands of such homes are at risk of being demolished. Ms. Rolnik noted that 70% of the demolitions in Jerusalem are carried out against Palestinians though they make up only 20% of the infractions. Last year Israel demolished 622 Palestinian structures of which 222 were family homes thus displacing 1,094 people.
Israel's Foreign Ministry called Ms. Rolnik's statements evidence of profound "misunderstanding of basic realities" and that she needs to "do her homework."
One of the inherent problems in Israel and the West Bank concerns jurisdiction and authority. One set of law is applied within Israel itself by the civil authority while another set is applied by the military administration within territories taken by Israel after the 1967 Israeli-Arab War.
When all is said and done, how Israel treats its minorities will determine the moral character of the state. In this regard I was happy to learn today of the Knesset's impending legislation to protect women and girls from the violence and abuse of the sex trafficking industry. We should all be waiting to see improvement in the way Israel treat the Palestinians living within Israeli jurisdiction.
Shalom mi-Y'rushalayim.
February 13, 2012 | 11:05 am
Posted by Rabbi John Rosove
Last evening I found myself channel surfing Israeli television when I came across a gripping documentary centered on an Israeli cyclist who pedaled the length and breadth of Israel and parts of the West Bank to meet people and learn about their lives and relationship to the land and state of Israel. He met them in cities, villages, kibbutzim, moshavim, in fields, cafes, bus stops, anywhere they gathered - Jews, Arabs, Muslims, Christians, Druze, religious, secular, Holocaust survivors, survivors of war and terror, soldiers in uniform, Jewish and Palestinian refugees, old, young, anyone and everyone.
Each had a story; every story was personal; each was a tale of heartbreak, strength, perseverance, and courage. Many of these people's histories were so sad that I wondered how they bore their sufferings. All spoke Hebrew, some not so well, as either a first language or a tongue acquired later in life. Everyone spoke honestly and from the heart. As he rolled throughout the land we heard behind his narration poetry and song reflecting the dreams and truths of the peoples' lives. The visuals were stunning as only they can be in Israel.
This film offered a snapshot of the diversity of people crammed into a small slice of territory and the consequent clash of identities and national aspirations. One young Palestinian originally from Haifa who was visiting family and friends from his home in Germany said; "I was born here. I speak Hebrew and Arabic. This is my home. But I am not an Israeli. Theirs is not my flag. I cannot sing Hatikvah [Israel's national anthem emphasizing the longing of the Jew for our people's ancestral home]. This is not my country. They don't respect me, but I am from here. What can I do! How can I live here?"
There was bitterness and anguish in his heart. I could not tell if there was also hatred or a desire for vengeance. He seemed resigned, and clearly had decided with his feet where he could live with self-respect and dignity outside this place.
Others expressed their passionate attachment to the land, the meaning of Hatikvah in their lives, and their desire that young Israelis and Jews the world over know the history of this place and why the Jewish state is so important.
Fear and hatred (though come by naturally) motivate too many people in this region and determine many self-destructive politics and policies.
In a separate blog I will tell of my tour of parts of the West Bank yesterday with a member of Shalom Achshav's "Settlement Watch" team and the most recent controversy in settlement construction.
For now, mi'Yerushalayim – Shalom!
February 10, 2012 | 2:36 pm
Posted by Rabbi John Rosove
Jessica Fishman's story will break your heart. She is a young Jewish woman from Minnesota whose father was President of their Conservative synagogue and mother was President of Hadassah. Jessica was a Jewish day school student and attended services every Shabbat. As a teen she traveled to Israel, fell in love with the country and made aliyah at the age of 22. Though beyond the age of military service, she volunteered in the Israeli army for two years. She met a young man, fell in love and was engaged to be married. Then her troubles began.
Jessica's fiancé and his family wanted her to convert to Judaism with an Orthodox rabbi because her mother had converted to Judaism with a Conservative Rabbi. They worried that Jessica's future children would not be considered Jewish by the Israeli Orthodox rabbinate and could never marry here.
Jessica refused to undergo conversion, saying; "This so upset me that these rabbis would define my identity for me."
The tension was too much, and she and her boyfriend ended their engagement.
Jessica felt abandoned and disillusioned despite all she had given of herself to the state of Israel. After living here for seven years, she returned to Minnesota and explained, "I no longer feel that this is my home. I feel unwanted, not accepted,…it's as if they spit in my face."
Jessica's story is only one recent example of the destructive impact the ultra-Orthodox rabbinate is having on Israeli society. The unholy alliance between religion and state has emboldened the ultra-Orthodox to impose themselves in more and more areas of Israeli life including the demand that certain bus lines running through Orthodox neighborhoods have separate seating for men and women with women seated in rear of the bus, nearly complete control of the Western Wall plaza by the Chief Rabbi of the Kotel, and incidents such as that which occurred last December in Beit Shemesh when Chareidi Orthodox thugs spit on an Orthodox 8 year-old little girl who was not dressed modestly enough for their taste.
Not unrelated were the massive protests last summer when hundreds of thousands of Israelis protested the squeezing of the middle class in cities all around the state. The protesters complained about not being able to make ends meet, all the while Orthodox religious institutions serving only 25% of the population who don't work, don't pay taxes and don't serve in the military are being massively subsidized by the government.
In response to the Israeli protests, Prime Minister Netanyahu appointed a commission led by Professor Manuel Trajtenberg, the chair of the Higher Education Planning and Budget Committee in the Knesset, to examine and propose solutions to Israel's economic problems. Among other things, the commission made recommendations to integrate ultra-Orthodox men into the work force, enforce core curriculum in Orthodox religious schools and to limit funding for yeshivas. (See here for details.)
It came as no surprise that the commission's recommendations met with fierce opposition by the ultra-Orthodox religious parties. However, in a national survey only 22% of the country opposed the recommendations. 90% of secular Jews supported it as did even 67% of the religious population, as well as 75% of Likud and virtually 100% of Labor and Kadima supporters.
Why are these recommendations so important? First, they aim to ease the financial burden of Israel's constricted middle class while also leveling the playing field for all members of Israeli society, including the ultra-Orthodox; and second, they would break the stranglehold of the ultra-Orthodox religious parties over many parts of Israeli life. However, because of the threat of the ultra-Orthodox religious parties to leave the government coalition, these recommendations have been frozen.
For more information on this danger to Israel's civil society no less significant than the threat from without by Israel's enemies, I recommend spending spend time looking at the web-site of Hiddush, an organization led by Rabbi Uri Regev that is committed to the separation of church and state.
L'shalom mi'y'rushalayim.
February 8, 2012 | 1:57 pm
Posted by Rabbi John Rosove
On a long flight to Israel this past week I read a beautifully written memoir called "The Hare with Amber Eyes" by Edmund DeWaal. This thoroughly researched work tells the story of four generations of the Ephrussi family, among the most prominent and wealthy Jewish families in pre-World War II Europe. It is a gripping tale about a dynasty acting at the center of the world of art, culture, politics, and finance in two great European cities, Paris and Vienna. It is biography, history, art history, anthropology, autobiography, and memoir written by a British porcelain ceramicist and Ephrussi descendent.
Hailing from Odessa, the Ephrussis migrated to Paris in the mid-19th century, then to Vienna, and within weeks of the Nazi Anschluss (lit. "link-up" with the "Fatherland") of Austria in March 1938 to London. They fled Austria with one suitcase leaving their palatial estate, much property, a massive art collection and library, and interests valued in the hundreds of millions of dollars by today's standards.
The book's title takes its name from a small carving in the Japanese netsuke style, one of 264 such figurines collected by Charles Ephrussi (great-great uncle to the author) who was an amateur art historian, dealer and art patron in late 19th century Paris. These animal carvings are the only items remaining of the family's fortunes. The Ephrussi treasures most likely hang in the world's great museums and private collections with no compensation ever having been given to the Ephrussi heirs.
Edmund DeWaal is an elegant writer with an artist's eye for detail. As he weaves the family's story together set against the late 19th century and early 20th century European art culture and Parisian and Viennese upper-class soirees and balls, he ponders what it means to belong anywhere and to leave what one has always known. In that sense, this is a quintessential Jewish story.
Though the Ephrussi family fate was like that of the rest of pre-war European Jewry, there was almost nothing identifiably Jewish about them. They never attended synagogue, did not observe any holidays, were disinterested in nascent Zionism (Theodor Herzl appealed to them for financial support but was politely turned away), and they seemed to know little about or care about Judaism as a faith tradition and religious civilization.
Instead, their social circles were populated by writers, artists, intellectuals, royalty, and business tycoons. In the Paris of the 1880s Charles was a friend to Proust, Pissarro, Manet, Degas, Sisley, Monet, and Renoir. He even appears in top hat and black suit in Renoir's famous Le dejeuner des cannotiers ("Luncheon of the Boating Party"). He was among the earliest and most important collectors of Impressionist art in Europe.
Charles Ephrussi's granddaughter Elisabeth continued the family's affinity for the intellectual and artistic elite. She had left Austria when Hitler came to power and earned a law degree in London. She carried on an extended correspondence with the Bohemian-Austrian poet Rainer Maria Rilke.
The lack of a strong Jewish religious identity eventually took the family far from the large pre-war Jewish community of Vienna as they continued the process of assimilation that many underwent in the Western Europe of those years. Elisabeth married a member of the Anglican Church who was eventually ordained a Priest, attending Church with him every Sunday. Her uncle (Edmund's great uncle Iggi), a gay man, lived out the rest of his life in Tokyo as part of that country's artistic and cultural elite with his long-time Japanese partner, Jiro.
The netsuke carvings followed the family from the moment Charles purchased them in mid-19th century Paris to Vienna. They symbolize this family as constant outsiders. The only reason these object d'art survived as a collection is due to the courage and loyalty of a long time Ephrussi family Viennese servant, Anna, who, when the Nazis ordered her to help crate all the family's art and books, systematically took them away in her apron pockets and hid them in her mattress until she could return them to the family. They now reside with the author.
Edmund concludes years of research, travel and writing by wondering what it means to belong to a place, to leave it and continue to wander. "You assimilate, but you need somewhere else to go. You keep your passport [in] hand. You keep something private…Why keep things, archive your intimacies?...Just because you have it does not mean you have to pass it on. Losing things can sometimes gain you a space in which to live."
A provocative thought, but I don't buy it. For Jews, especially, memory shapes who we are, how we think and what we think about, and who we will be. Transmission therefore becomes not only an existential necessity but a religious duty.
February 7, 2012 | 5:14 pm
Posted by Rabbi John Rosove
This is my 15th sojourn in Israel since my first trip 38 years ago, and as much as Israel has changed in that time it is still the most fascinating and inspiring place I know.
Today I met an old friend for lunch who made aliyah from South Africa in 1970, and he shared with me how difficult life has become for Israelis noting that the mood of the country is very similar to that immediately following the Yom Kippur War in 1973. That war shattered the illusions and optimism that Israel's victory in the 1967 Six-Days War had inspired. In those heady six short years between the wars Israelis felt impenetrable, like modern-day Maccabees, capable of overcoming every challenge and believing that at last they were fulfilling Jewish destiny.
Today, in light of last summer's massive social justice rallies, the current government's extremist nationalistic policies and the existential threat posed by Iran, it should not come as a surprise that Israelis are disheartened and distressed.
I am here for two weeks to study Hebrew on Ulpan (an accelerated language immersion program), and though my speaking approaches fluency at times it isn't good enough for me. I am finding it increasingly difficult to understand many Israelis under the age of 45 who speak a mile a minute, far quicker than I remember 20 and 30 years ago. I figure that if I ever hope to engage with them in our common language, I have to do better, enhance my speaking and listening, and meet them where they live.
I asked my Ulpan teacher about why she thinks so many speak so fast all the time. She is a smart and sophisticated young woman younger than my eldest son, and she confessed that she didn't know, but acknowledged that Israelis today live with exceptional tension, and perhaps that pressured life-style has affected their communication patterns.
That being said, there is no place like this place!
The day after I arrived, last Friday morning, I walked from my hotel in the chilly 45 degree sunshine to Machaneh Yehudah, Jerusalem's famed open-air market, to buy food for my room and a fine bottle of Israeli Cabernet for my Erev Shabbat hosts. En route I wandered through old neighborhoods and narrow alleyways. Two elderly religious women hauling food carts were talking excitedly about their children and grandchildren who were coming from a Jerusalem suburb to their homes for Shabbat. Children ran by laughing and yelling. Hip looking 20-somethings passed me as well. Other than these human voices the streets were quiet as few cars were about. I entered the market and barkers were shouting the price of dried fruit for Tu Bishvat, the New Year for Trees and one of Israel's favorite holidays, that comes Tuesday night and Wednesday.
So much happens here. On Shabbat evening I prayed with my friends at the Reform synagogue, Kehillat Mevasseret Zion. In the morning, I attended services at Congregation Shira Chadasha, an egalitarian Orthodox synagogue where women co-lead services with men. The singing of P'sukei D'zimra (a section of the service filled with Psalms and praises of God) especially was moving, melodic and beautiful. Kol isha ("the voice of the woman") was clear, feminine and strong despite the Talmudic prohibition against men having to listen to a woman's voice out of fear that they (the men) will become sexually aroused and distracted from their prayers. I was happy to hear these feminine voices and especially here, in the holiest of cities, for they along with the men were filled with love and Godliness, the essence of holiness.
And then, on Motzei Shabbat kol isha again! It is now an annual tradition on the Saturday night after Shabbat Shira celebrating the "Song at the Sea" (Exodus 15) that HUC's cantorial students celebrate the life, music and spirit of Debbie Friedman (z'l) who is responsible for initiating the transformation of liturgical music for Reform Jews and many Conservative Jews around the world. Hundreds sang Debbie's songs, laughed, cried, and expressed gratitude to her for what she gave to us and the Jewish people, again in this holiest of cities.
I have two homes – one in Los Angeles and one here. I wouldn't want it any other way.
Shalom mi-Y'rushalayim.
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Wheres My Droid
Alienman Technologies LLC
The first find your phone app on the Android Market continues to get better and better. Now with more features it is easier then ever to track down your missing phone.
Where's My Droid can turn the ringer volume up and make your phone ring. The app can also get the GPS coordinates with a link to Google maps if you're not near enough to your phone to hear the ringer. You have the freedom to trac...
Download this app if:
you want to turn silent mode off when your phone is lost.
App Rating
This Android app does not currently have any videos
We couldn't find videos for this Android app. Can you suggest one (it must be hosted on YouTube)?
Updated: October 29, 2013
Publisher: alienmanfc6
Version 5.0.2 [0.978944 MB]
Where's My Droid? is an app that allows you to send text messages directly to your phone, which activates two different methods that help you locate your expensive smartphone. If you know your phone is somewhere close, maybe it's tangled up in a long blanket or you left it in your coat pocket, you can send a text message to your phone that will crank up your ringer volume (even if it's set to vibrate) and then ring fo...
Read full review »-
So helpful it's not even funny by htforman
I am rather careless when it comes to the placement of electronics. I always misplace my phone somewhere in my house and this app is absolutely perfect for helping me find it. Every android phone user should get this app right away to insure that they never lose their phone. Even if you left it on silent mode, the app overcomes that and still rings at a high level to help you find it. By far one of my most useful apps.
Regardless of where your phone is, this app will tell you. You can send a text message from another phone to make it ring, or look up the GPS coordinates and get directions from Google Maps. Finally a way to save hundreds of dollars on a new phone...for free.
Associated Apps: Wheres My Droid
I tried RING & EMAIL Nothing Happen on either No use Trying the Other Features Till I See What Response I get from the Developer
Associated Apps: Wheres My Droid

subset: commoncrawl


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One of the nicest MPs in the House of Commons has announced her retirement from politics at the age of 49, having been elected only in 2010. She's called Laura Sandys, she sits for South Thanet, and she's not my sort of Conservative – a Europhile keen on renewable energy. But I've met her a few times and it's no surprise that her ideological opponents (such as the local MEP, Dan Hannan) are so impressed: she's bright, warm-hearted and an utterly dedicated constituency MP. When I told her my grandmother lived in Surrey Road, Cliftonville, in the Seventies, she displayed the freakishly detailed knowledge I associate with Lib Dem councillors: "We've got to do something about that… Read More
Today the OECD confirmed that the UK is ranked just 26th for maths in the 65 countries it tested. But when I spoke to Michael Gove, the Education Secretary, this morning he was adamant that he wants to create a "startup culture" in British schools – partly by importing the entrepreneurial skills of Silicon Valley.
"The most important thing is that within schools you create the habits that entrepreneurs need to succeed – grit and perseverance," he said.
"We're fortunate in that we've generated a start-up culture in Silicon Roundabout [in east London] that needs to spread to our schools. That's why the revised curriculum makes room for teachers to show greater innovation, particularly in maths – posing the sorts of problems that require demonstrations of originality and creative thinking exhibited in Silicon Valley.
"I visited California recently and was enormously impressed by educational techniques that demand a degree of… Read More
Tags: Education, Google, Michael Gove, Microsoft, OECD, Silicon Valley
UPDATE: CCHQ has been in touch to say:
"Mr Yeo has not been 'deselected'. The situation is that he has failed to be reselected by the executive body of his local party – but he can still be reinstated as candidate by a ballot of all association members."
Got that? OK. I don't fancy his chances, myself. Now read on.
This is such good news that I thought I'd nip in before Delingpole. Tim Yeo has been rejected by South Suffolk Tories, where he's been MP for 30 years. As we report:
In June he was caught up in a newspaper sting and faced allegations that he offered to lobby ministers and "coached" a business associate who was due to give evidence to his committee. He stood down temporarily from his position as chairman of the Energy and Climate Change Committee… Read More
Tags: James Delingpole, Tim Yeo MP
Now, at last, we have a clear idea of what sort of Pope has taken over the Catholic Church. His Apostolic Exhortation Evangelii Gaudium – the Joy of the Gospel – challenges Catholics to reject a life of comfort and move into direct contact with the poor as a matter of great urgency. It tells them that the Church has become lazy, even without realising it. It says that traditional styles of worship are not necessarily suitable for newly evangelised non-Western people, or the modern world in general; and, in a passage that will truly trouble some conservatives, it raises the possibility that non-Christian religions are performing God's work, enriching souls albeit imperfectly. (All the emphases in bold are mine.)
Non-Christians, by God's gracious initiative,… Read More
Tags: Evangelii Gaudium, Pope Francis
Bpfff. Do you recognise that sound? It's the moment the stylus touches down on the groove of a record. If you lower the arm gently, using the lever, there's a little bumping noise, followed by some polite, throat-clearing static, and then whatever music you've chosen.
An audiophile friend, browsing through my LPs, tells me that the finest, fullest sound on any of them comes from a "first pressing" of Malcolm Arnold's English Dances, so right now I'm listening to that a lot. One of the dances is the theme music from What the Papers Say. That's a wee bit irritating, but I'm an audiophile myself now – as of last Saturday – so I revel self-consciously in the fullness of that first pressing.
Yup, I've gone back to vinyl. I'd bought a double CD of Gigli… Read More
Tags: Benjamin Britten, Nick Boles, Pope Francis
If that building looks familiar, today of all days, you shouldn't be surprised. I bought this mug in 1998 when I visited The Sixth Floor Museum – previously known as the Texas Book Depository. Sometimes I make a coffee for friends and they'll look at it and say: "Oh, I've just realised how tasteless this is." Is it? I don't know; but when the museum offers you the chance to stand at the window from where Oswald shot Kennedy – well, you take it.
Tags: John F Kennedy, lee Harvey Oswald
"Traditionalists ready to allow women bishops," says the headline in The Times today. Anglo-Catholics in the Church of England won't have to encounter lady bishops in their own parishes, but they are decisively throwing in their lot with a liberal Protestant denomination that consecrates them. Come on, guys, admit it! There will be some sort of fig-leaf "safeguard" to stop the women bishops… um, do you know, after 20 years of watching Anglo-Catholics slowly accommodating themselves to female ordination I've lost track and I'm not sure exactly what this will stop (apart from having the women bishops in their sanctuaries, for the time being).
• Paul Sykes's return to the Ukip fold is game-changing
• Guns for sale on Libya's answer to Oxford Street
•… Read More
So here's TMZ's video of Alec Baldwin calling a photographer something not suitable for a family newspaper – a REALLY graphic homophobic slur. It's equivalent to using the N-word. And it's not the first time.
And how do the media describe it? "Language that's considered offensive to gays." You don't say. It's a "bad habit" of Alec's… but, wait, the photographer got really close to Alec's family so let's take that into account.
Meanwhile, gay activists GLAAD are… really rather disappointed. "Mr Baldwin can't lend his support for equality on paper, while degrading gay people in practice. It's clearly time he listens to the calls from so many LGBT people and allies to end this pattern of anti-gay slurs."
I'm wondering: if this was Mel Gibson, say, would GLAAD be counselling him to listen to… Read More
Tags: Alec Baldwin
Just as I'm approaching the 20th anniversary of my last alcoholic drink, Prof David Nutt – sacked as government drugs tsar after he suggested that horse-riding was more dangerous than Ecstasy – announces that he's working on a hangover-free alternative to booze.
As he puts it: "In theory we can make an alcohol surrogate that makes people feel relaxed and sociable and removes the unwanted effects, such as aggression and addictiveness."
Would I try it now? Like a shot. It's not booze, so it wouldn't count as a "slip", the most dreaded word in the lexicon of Alcoholics Anonymous. There is an antidote that renders you instantly sober. And I'm curious.
For centuries, mankind has searched in vain for a mood-altering substance that doesn't find a way… Read More
Tags: alcohol, Alfred Brendel, BBC bias, Mark Easton, MDMA, Nigel Farage, Salvation Army, UKIP
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text:
I rarely suffer from insomnia, but last night, I was wide awake.
It sucked.
And yet, even as I lie there, eyes wide open, I was not inspired to spend the night amongst the fishes.
The Conrad Maldives Rangali Island Hotel is celebrating its fifth anniversary by transforming its underwater restaurant into an exclusive suite for two. Tired of traditional hotel rooms? Sleep instead under the waters of the Indian Ocean…and 125mm thick glass walls.
Lie in bed, sip champagne and watch the sea life swim above your head before retiring for the night. Then enjoy breakfast in bed in the morning.
I know this is supposed to sound ideal — and the photos are lovely — but I get claustrophobic at the mere thought of all that water rushing above my head.
Breathtaking? Yes! My breath…as the glass walls shatter, and the waves come crashing in and sweep me away.
This isn't an idyllic vacation. It's the premise for the next disaster picture…and I'm the unsuspecting tourist who meets her tragic end.
Yep. Still not sleepy.


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Penthouse apt on the beach in Puerto Rico
- bedrooms 2
- baths 2
- sleeps 4
- pool yes
- hot tub no
- pets allowed no
- type Condo
- community Haciendas Del Club
rates (USD)
/ night
$ 1,260 - $ 1,400 / week
$ 4,000 - $ 5,500 / month
vacation rental description
Enjoy beautiful sunsets and direct ocean views from your 2 balconies at this new waterfront getaway. The ocean is directly in front of the condo about 20 steps away. Complex includes pool, outdoor BBQ, an 18 hole golf course, marina, tennis courts and playground. There is also a club house restaurant with excellent food. Dine at nearby ocean front restaurants in Cabo Rojo, which are known for their seafood and local cuisine. There is snorkeling in your backyard at Joyuda Beach. Penthouse condo has two large bedrooms, two full baths, a juliet balcony off the master bedroom and a large balcony off the living room. This is a high-end complex with excellent amenities.
property availability
Last modified on 10-17-2013 at 6:17 AM.
email owner view full calendar
Arifa Khandwalla 212-580-1609
condo rental amenities
Adult Pool, Children's Pool, Golf, Beach, Playground.
Apt is fully equipped with linens, towels, full kitchen, beach chairs, washer/dryer, airconditioned bedrooms, two parking spots.
activities and attractions in Puerto Rico Caribbean
Snorkeling, swimming, wind surfing, kayaking, diving, fishing, trails. Explore cute picturesque towns such as La Parguera. Drive to Arecibo to see the giant radio telescope
Visit the salt-flats of Cabo Rojo at the National Wildlife Refuge.
See Cabo Rojo Lighthouse and swim at the beach there along with the seagulls diving for fish.
Get dropped off to nearby small island for your semi private beach
Visit Bars and Restaurants in Bocqueron village with its nightlife. Visit our favorite dockside seafood restaurant with its resident pelican and fish.
For casino lovers, there are two casinos in the city of Mayaguez about 20 minutes away from the apt.
Arifa Khandwalla 212-580-1609
accepted payment methods
Prior to paying a reservation deposit, always verify payment instructions by calling the phone number displayed on this listing page. By contacting the owner directly and paying by an approved method - credit card, paypal, check or bank transfer - your reservation payment will be protected up to $1,000.
Learn more in our Security CenterTop things to do on a budget
- Hit the beaches. Go to Las Salinas Beach at the Cabo Lighthouse
- Eat at the local roadside restaurants
- Swim in the pool
- Barbecue at home on the grill
- Go Salsa Dancing
Top things to do with a family
- Take the family snorkeling outside the apt
- Let them swim in the roped off lagoon next to the apt
- See the lighthouse
- Hit the playground
Arifa Khandwalla , owner


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RECEPTIONIST Mike Steven Volkswagen is looking for an evening service department receptionist. Multi More info |
Custodial Custodial 30-35 hrs per week. All shifts available. Apply online to www.kwaei.com click on More info |
TECHNOLOGY Desktop Support Goddard USD 265 is seeking a full time (40 hrs. /week) experienced deskto More info |
ELECTRICIAN Service Electrician Must have Journeyman license. Apply at 3901 N Broadway, Wichita, Ks More info |
RESTAURANT Business is Booming!!! We need Shift Mgrs Drivers Apply at your local Wichita Papa Johns More info |
DRIVERS CDL Class A 2 yrs exp pref. Openings for: OTR DRIVERS Benefits available competitive pay Cal More info |
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FIREFIGHTER Firefighter Positions Open Spirit Aero systems must have FF I II, EMT Basic, Haz Mat Op More info |
DRIVER (Part time) PT position avail- able; Various hours 2 Sundays a month. Excellent Driving Reco More info |


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Welcome to our Downers Grove North Class of 1945 page. Our website was created for Downers Grove North Alumni and School Faculty. Register here to reunite with classmates, plan class reunions or to share school information.
• Dennis Graham '60
• Pamela Brinkman '78
• Peter Ineich '73
• Denise Maz '69
• Debra Kuhnert '07
• Joe Havel '68
• Jason Cessna '90
If you are planning your class reunion or looking for reunion information please use the below link to visit our Downers Grove North Alumni Site. You can search for information from all class years:
posted Dec 10, 2013:
I hope all the class of 1945 Trojans are healthy, happy and doing well. I look forward to seeing everyone at our next class reunion.
Complete one of the surveys which have been created, or create your own survey for your class!


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Artemide Architectural Altop AR M163122
Artemide Altop Ceiling Lamps
Uplift Your Spirit with Altop
In the contemporary era, dynamism of colors performs a great job of rejuvenating our senses and uplifting the spirit. In order to serve this purpose, Artemide Altop have gained the popularity as the option. These lights make a subject become visible with spellbound beauty. Altop from Artemide Architectural could be a great addition for any type of interior whether it is your bedroom, living room, kids area, office interior, hospitality décor, or retail shop.Dimensional Attributes of Altop
They are available with a variety of recessed luminaries with the length of 594 mm or 619 mm. It is available in two different widths that are 594 and 619 mm. The effectiveness of the soft light depends upon the depth. The depth of Artemide Altop soft lights 180 mm. However, the installation depth could be 360 mm. The weight of the product can be either 790 kg or 830 kg. This depends on the dimensions of the product.Physical attributes of Altop
These lights come with steel body that looks lustrous. The white finishing fills in your environment with calmness and peace. Colored bodies are available on special request from the client. Three lighting solutions are available namely- general lighting, accent lighting, and combined mixed illuminations. These have dual gentle switches. The lamp comes in the fluorescent color with mouth blown glass. It has a dust protection screen of polycarbonate. It has two light sources that consume a power of 55 W.Technical Attributes of Artemide Altop
The Artemide Altop ceiling lamps are well-known since the perception of the time because of its LED screen with ip40. The projector supports 12v halogen lighting and metal-halide. This has a tilt angle that may vary from -10 degree to +70 degrees. You may rotate it to 355 degrees. These lights have a certification of EN 60598 for the protection measure.Artemide Architectural – Architectural lighting
The Italian brand Artemide is primarily known for its chic and elegant design lighting. But next to the exquisite Artemide design range, the Italian brand also offers a range of architectural lighting which is not surprisingly named Artemide Architectural.
Artemide Architectural = Artemide lighting with a sleek modern style
Compared to the normal Artemide design range, the Artemide Architectural lighting is tighter and less striking. The Artemide Architectural products are characterized by their straight shapes and rather sober colors. After all architectural lighting is meant blend in with the rest of the interior, while the Artemide design lamps are made to stand out immediately by being true eye catchers.
Same Artemide lighting comfort but different style
The Artemide Architectural lighting may be a little less striking, therefore this does not mean they are less stylish. The lighting from the Artemide Architectural range offers the same excellent lighting comfort as the Artemide design lighting. The difference lies in their physical shape. On top the Artemide Architectural range contains more fixed lighting fixtures by which we are referring to wall lights, recessed spots, pendant lights and ceiling lights. In the design range you will find more table lamps and floor lamps. But you shouldn't take this classification really strictly. After all you can find all types of lighting fixtures in each range.
Several typical collections
A few characteristic collections from the Artemide Architectural range that represent the Architectural range excellently are the Altop recessed lights, the Esprit pendant lights, the Focal ceiling lights, the Mini Surf, etc. These are four examples of the Artemide Architectural fixtures that are tight, cool and modern in terms of style.
At dmLights you can order all Artemide Architectural lighting collections safely online at very sharp prices. dmLights is a recognized dealer of the Artemide Architectural lighting.


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Pretty pastoral scenes decorate the tins containing Les Anis de Flavigny pastilles. The anise lozenges are coated with rose- and orange-blossom-flavored candy shells. (fooddepot.com)
These delectable little disks of De la Rosa peanut chews hail from Mexico and come in a sweet box. (fooddepot.com)
Consider giving guests Droste Cocoa from the Netherlands, which is superb for both drinking and baking and comes in a cool vintage-style container. (fooddepot.com)
Friends meet up to sip yerba mate in South America. To share some with your pals, break up a bag of Taragui yerba mate, scoop it into tins, and add our label. (fooddepot.com)
Place pie-size Swedish Leksands crispbread rounds in guests' lodgings for late-night snacking. (fooddepot.com)
Bottles of Cap Jempol sambal sauce, made from chili peppers, will let everyone know you think they're hot stuff. (fooddepot.com)
Salty Hafco licorice (fooddepot.com) is a classic Dutch treat. Stow them in boxes wrapped with our tulip patterns.
Quench your guests' thirst with Taisun star fruit juice or peach juice, or Yuan apple soda, all from Taiwan. (fooddepot.com)
A New England favorite since 1847, pastel Necco Wafers can be elevated with a twist of cellophane. (hometownfavorites.com)
One whiff of Tartans of Maine's balsam fir pillows (tartansofmaine.com) will transport loved ones right back to your wedding in the state. Wind a ribbon around each heritage plaid wool square, and slip a "thank you" tag right through.
Shriver's Salt Water Taffy (shrivers.com) has been a sweet staple of the New Jersey shore since 1898. Choose from a mind-boggling assortment of flavors -- strawberry, pumpkin, hazelnut -- and let their colors shine through glassine packets (favorsandgifts.etsy.com).
Drizzled on pancakes, Northeast Maple syrup (northeastmaple.com) conjures memories of fiery foliage all year long. Once the bottle's tapped out, it can be used as a bud vase.
Spread Philadelphia's fondness for twisted bread -- second only to cheesesteak -- by handing out chocolate-covered pretzels. (philadelphiacandies.com)
Covered in beautiful maps of the Empire State, these NYC matchboxes (blueribbongeneralstore.net) look especially striking.
Salute nautical Nantucket or Cape Cod, Massachusetts; Mystic, Connecticut; or other coastal cities with sailors' rope bracelets that shrink to fit (1856countrystore.com). Or bestow "The Arts of the Sailor: Knotting, Splicing, and Ropework" to show guests the ropes.
Make DIY sweet-tea kits: Cover rectangular boxes (nashvillewraps.com) with the recipe, then fill them with sugar cubes and Luzianne tea bags (luzianne.com).
You don't need to be at a horse race to sip mint juleps. Guests can blend their own with this cup (atasteofkentucky.com) and a bottle of Woodford Reserve bourbon (thepartysource.com).
Everyone will ooh and ahh over Priester's Pecans mini pies (priesters.com). They fit snugly into clear large truffle boxes (nashvillewraps.com), and the personal portions mean there's no need to share.
Guests can summon Maryland with a sprinkle of Old Bay seasoning -- it's great in Bloody Marys and on potatoes, too -- a wooden mallet (themarylandstore.com), and a kitchen towel (surlatable.com).
These irresistible bite-size cookies smack of the Sunshine State's tart produce (keywestkeylimepieco.com). Shell-shaped chocolates are another seaside favor (weddingfavors.com).
The Bayou is known for more than Mardi Gras. Honor Louisiana's French heritage with fleur-de-lis-themed note cards from La Belle-Vie Design (labelleviedesign.com) or with chocolate lollipops (hitsthespot.etsy.com).
Candied pecans and pretty papers dress up Sweeteeth Cinnapsis chocolate bars (sweeteethchocolate.com). The Charleston, South Carolina, chocolatiers will even create small-batch custom-blend flavors for smaller affairs.
Who doesn't love goober peas? (That's what peanuts are called down south.) Whitley's Peanut Factory nuts (whitleyspeanut.com) will come in handy on the flight home -- if they last that long. Just pour them into Bella Terra ribbon-handle bags (bellaterra.net).
Crafted to resemble nuts from the Ohio state tree, Marie's Candies buckeyes are decadent orbs of chocolate-dipped peanut butter (mariescandies.com). Four fit perfectly into these 3 1/2-inch-square white candy boxes (confectioneryhouse.com). We wrapped ours in yellow paper for a colorful finishing touch.
A handsome volume of the classic American novel "O Pioneers!" connects Nebraska's past to its present. Hand it over bound in ribbon with a stalk or two of wheat. (doverpublications.com)
Mackinac Island fudge is a hit with fans from Michigan and all over the Midwest, who visit Mackinac Fudge Shop to indulge their sugar cravings. (mackinacfudgeshop.com)
Come June, tart cherries pop up all over the Great Lakes. A jar of Michigan's Cherry Republic triple-cherry granola (cherryrepublic.com) lets friends enjoy the fruit year-round.
End the celebration without a dose of dairy? We think not. A little package of Wisconsin cheddar cheese and Carr's crackers (wisconsincheesemart.com) is a terrific late-night snack.
Wildflowers dot the Kansas prairie, but they can grow in most backyards, too. A muslin bag of Midwest seed bombs contains an arsenal of native plants that are ready to be sown. (visualingual.etsy.com)
Pay tribute to the crops of Iowa and Indiana by adding bright paper leaves to a cob-shaped lollipop (melvillestore.com) or dole out kettle corn (popcornindiana.com) in striped paper bags (bakeitpretty.com).
The Magnificent Mile's skyline is immortalized in these letterpress versions by Paper Stories (paperstories.com). Place a bundle at each place setting.
For guests: an ode to your locale courtesy of Barrel of Monkeys "Detroit Love" pin-back buttons (barrelofmonkeys.etsy.com). For you: a photo of everyone wearing them during the reception.
Give the gift of native flora that even black thumbs can make thrive: mini cacti (arizonagifts.com). Top them off with personalized plant markers.
Keep the party going with bottles of Austin, Texas-based Tito's Handmade Vodka (titosvodka.com). The smooth liquor is made in copper pots at Texas's first (legal) distillery.
Bedre's chocolate boots were made for walking -- and eating. After gobbling these up, everyone will wish they came in a life-size version. (thegourmetgallery.com)
You got a diamond -- why not present guests with something sparkly, too? Arizona's amethysts and pyrite from Astro Gallery (a.k.a. "fool's gold") symbolize protection and are thought to bring good luck (212-889-9000). Toss them into 3-by-four-inch pouches from Soft Suede Collection (softpouch.com).
All you need is a clever tag to turn a Melville Candy Company horseshoe lollipop (melvillestore.com) into a gift worth trotting off with.
What happens in Vegas stays in Vegas -- except for Stardust Hotel's playing cards, that is. Bundle them up with a stack of poker chips (oldvegaschips.com).
Named for one of the country's oldest highways, Route 66 cream soda (route66sodas.com), along with a fun tag and striped straw -- just set out a bunch next to the bottles (fishseddy.com) -- will quench any weary traveler's thirst.
Hand-made in Santa Fe, New Mexico, Songbird Soaps (songbirdsoaps.etsy.com) have a unisex appeal. They're composed of ingredients like sage and indigo, and make great shaving bars. Plus, they come wrapped in beautiful fabric.
Souvenirs guests would probably buy for themselves -- like punched tin ornaments -- are a no-brainer. Bonus: supporting regional artisans such as Cristina Hernandez. (therealsouthwest.com)
New Mexico's pinon coffee (therealsouthwest.com) is made from pine nuts brought to a dark, savory roast. Repackage the java in 1/2-pound kraft paper bags (leboxboutique.com), and add a colorful flourish.
For more than 50 years, Ken & June's Hazelnuts (madeinoregon.com) have satisfied Oregonians. A glassine bag filled with them and finished with a handwritten tag is a delectable treat.
Talk about longevity: An Ancient Bristlecone Pine grow kit has the potential to produce a tree with a 5,000-year life span (jonsteen.com).
Keep the flame alive long after the ceremony is over with Seattle-made sugared eucalyptus soy candles (torchillumination.com). The scent freshens up hotel rooms, and lids make them travel-friendly.
Berries gathered from the Bighorn Mountains yield this wild-chokecherry vinaigrette (wyomingbuffalocompany.com). Add a label to make it your own.
This display-worthy tea towel is printed with a 1940s-style state map and will jazz up any countertop. (Idaho souvenir towel, antiquekitchen.com)
Washington-grown apples pack crisp flavor into Deluxe Foods' spiced apple butter (madeinwashington.com). Tip: It's mouthwatering with farmhouse cheddar.
With a gorgeous label and luscious contents, La Tourangelle avocado oil (latourangelle.com) is a rich ode to California.
Gourmet Hawaiian seasonings, complete with punched-paper tags, bring the island spirit to meals back home. From top: Papohaku opal sea salt, bamboo-leaf sea salt, and Molokai red fine salt (atthemeadow.com). Martha Stewart Crafts hydrangea punch (michaels.com for stores).
Honeyville mountain-wildflower honey (honeyvillecolorado.com) offers a tempting taste of the Rockies. Consider giving it with a charming wooden dipper (surlatable.com).
Covered with facts and figures about Big Sky Country, Field Notes "County Fair" state notebooks (fieldnotesbrand.com) are just the right size for travel.
These wedding ideas were made for faraway fetes.
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text:
Vieques Island Vacation Home, Puerto Rico
- Item Number
- 119
- Estimated Value
- $1,500
- Sold
- $650 to Bostonbarb
- Number of Bids
- 1 - Bid History
Item Description
One Week of Bliss!
Three bedroom, three bathroom, private, oceanfront house on Vieques Island. Ideal for two families with children. La Joya del Mar sits on a bluff overlooking the ocean.
Four generous verandas for sunning, reading, and playing provide sweeping views of the Atlantic, Culebra, and Puerto Rico. The entire compound is walled allowing for complete privacy, however, a neighbor's chicken may wander in for a visit now and then.
Main House
- large kitchen with a full complement of cooking equipment, blender, toaster, microwave, and coffee maker
- laundry room off the kitchen with a washer and dryer
- one bathroom with shower
- an outdoor shower off of the laundry room
- linens, beach towels, and bath towels provided
- bedroom set up like a dormitory with 2 twin beds and 1 double bed
- living room has two couches that can also be used as twin beds
- oceanview from both the living room and the bedroom large picture windows
- telephone
The tower
- two bedroom suites, both with queen beds, reading lights, and full baths with showers and tubs
- all rooms have ceiling fans
- attached to the main house by a sweeping veranda
This house takes full advantage of its location-there is always a balmy breeze and the views from every room are spectacular. The grounds are lush with palms, almond trees, papaya and flowering hibiscus and bougainvillea.
New York Magazine called Vieques "the hippest island in the Carribean" and Vogue said that the island is "easily accessible yet amazingly remote and little known but for its wild horses and deserted beaches.
Special Instructions
Rental weeks subject to availability. Does not include minimum housekeeping charge of $250.
There is no TV or stereo.
A small island (10,000 pop,) off the eastern coast of Puerto Rico, Vieques is a place where wild horses still roam the streets and many of the almost 100 beaches are virtually deserted even in the height of the season. In this laid back paradise, you will find a handful of ocean front restaurants serving simple dishes and perfect pina coladas. There are open-air bars scattered throughout the island's two villages.
Donated By:
Ted Inbusch


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The Yard
1335 Willow Street, Los Angeles, California, 90013
The Yard is a Kickboxing/Muay Thai gym, and has been voted "school of the month" by Gladiator Magazine.
Additional locations as the crow flies:
Willow Studios (Miracle Day): 0.03 miles.
BASF Corporation (Miracle Day): 0.08 miles.
Vibiana (Miracle Day): 1.07 miles.
Los Angeles City Hall East (plaza) (The New World): 1.13 miles.
Los Angeles City Hall (The New World, Rendition, Dead of Night): 1.19 miles.
Further links about the location:
The Yard - official site
Related Stories
Miracle Day [10 Mar 2011]: Thought at time, but might actually be Willow Studios
Information, downloads, photographs and other media are provided for reference and for personal use only (planning visits etc.) - they remain the copyright of their respective authors and may not be duplicated on any other website or media without prior permission.
All screen captures are the copyright of the BBC and appear here as reference to illustrate the location in comparison with how it looked at the time of filming and the present day; no attempt is made to supercede this or any other copyright.
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After war breaks out between Aster-Morgaria and Vetal, Wilfrid joins a Vetalian-aligned group of mercenaries called the Errant Knights. However, in his attempt to reclaim fame and fortune, Wilfrid finds himself intrigued by the mysterious mercenary captain, Oswald Dytel.
Today marks the momentous date of the launch of knights-errant! Comics coming soon!


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TOPSHOTS An Indian resident bathes on a roadside in New Delhi on December 22, 2013. Biting cold sweeping across northern India has intensified, with high altitude areas experiencing fresh snowfall and strong icy winds. AFP PHOTO/SAJJAD HUSSAINSAJJAD HUSSAIN/AFP/Getty Images
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OOverall very good. On weekends, a 2nd waffle iron would keep the lines down. Because of time constraints, unable to enjoy much looked forward to waffle.
- Also Known As:
- Super 8 Central Point-Medford Hotel
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- Super 8 Medford
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- Medford Super 8
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- TripAdvisor is proud to partner with Booking.com, Expedia, Priceline, Orbitz, Travelocity, Cheap Tickets, Hotels.com, Tingo and Otel so you can book your Super 8 Central Point-Medford reservations with confidence. We help millions of travellers each month to find the perfect hotel for both holiday and business trips, always with the best discounts and special offers.


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Tag Archives: Dan Teasdale
Wed, Oct 30, 2013 | 08:11 GMT
Roundabout: Teasdale on spinning limos and why the '70s were best
Dan Teasdale made Destroy All Humans!, Rock Band and The Gunstringer; if that weren't reason enough to pay attention to his new game, the fact that it stars a spinning limo and was inspired by Tony Hawk and Crazy Taxi seems sufficient.
Tue, Jul 16, 2013 | 04:44 BST
Harmonix, Twisted Pixel designer founds new indie, No Goblin
Dan Teasdale will head a new independent development studio, No Goblin, with a debut title expected on PC and PlayStation 4 in 2014.
Sat, Apr 13, 2013 | 16:27 BST
Twisted Pixel lead designer Dan Teasdale announces departure
Twisted Pixel's lead designer Dan Teasdale has announced he has left the studio.
Sat, Jul 03, 2010 | 20:27 BST
Harmonix's Dan Teasdale jumps over to Twisted Pixel
Harmonix's Dan Teasdale, lead designer for Rock Band 3, has moved from the music game maker to developer Twisted Pixel, where he'll be working on "a ridiculously cool new project."
Wed, Jan 06, 2010 | 16:21 GMT
Rock Band 2 update contains US SingStar mic support
Dan Teasdale, lead designer on Rock Band 2, has posted some updates for the title over on the US PS Blog.
Due to loads of consumer feedback, a few tweaks have been made to the hammer-ons and pull-offs, along with changes to sorting in Quickplay and, finally, the long awaited addition of SingStar mic support in the US.
Mon, Apr 06, 2009 | 07:31 BST
Lego Rock Band accidentally confirmed
Harmonix designer Dan Teasdale's confirmed on his blog that Lego Rock Band was supposed to be announced at GDC. He's provided the slides to prove it.
There's a PDF there of an earlier version of the designer's GDC session – obviously, it didn't happen. Looks like Lego Rock Band was planned to be announced prior to this year's show.
Teasdale's slides show that the game will hit in 2009.
Thanks, Kotaku.
Fri, Oct 31, 2008 | 20:47 GMT
Beatles game has already been 17 months in the making
Speaking to Gamespot, Rock Band lead designer Dan Teasdale given some hints at just how much work's been involved in getting Apple Corp to an announcement stage of the newly confirmed Beatles game. Sounds as though it hasn't been easy.
"We started the process about 17 months ago, so it's great to finally talk about it," he said.
Harmonix PR chap John Drake added: "We've been in talks with them for a very, very, long time.
"[Apple Corps CEO] Jeff Jones was saying that they respected and appreciated what Harmonix does creatively for rhythm games… being pioneers in the field, bringing the full band experience, and we, of course, are colossal fans of the Beatles so there's not too much to think about why it's a great deal."
Time isn't an issue when you're aiming this high, said Teasdale, who appeared to be "quite pleased" at the signing.
"The Beatles are amazing," he said. "To make it clear, this isn't a Rock Band game, this is a new experience for the Beatles. It's a way to experience the Beatles' music, it's a way to bring this to a whole new audience as well as people who are huge fans of the Beatles.
"From our end it's amazing… The Beatles are the biggest band in the world. They're music legends, and to be able to bring that experience to everyone is a great honour."
The game's out next year. More through the link.


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Arrest on 100 BLOCK OF MADRID ST, WARNER ROBINS, GA |
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Warner Robins police said Friday they are looking for Mario Deonta Williams in connection with an armed robbery Aug. 9. Williams, 28, is suspected of getting a ride in the 100 block of Russell Parkway and robbing the driver, police spokeswoman Tabitha Pugh said.


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10 5's velobike
Posted 13 May 2012 - 07:10 PM
this is it
GC i brought it off even dropped it of to me from te puke. got it cheap as it would start but not run when warm. as soon as i turned the fuel tap on there was fuel pissing every where, took carb of and both little tin floats had holes in them so the float bowl was never shutting. bit of solder later and problem solved. cleaned the black as spark plug up and away it went.
the only interesting thing so far is to get 8hp out of a side valve means its 298cc!! and huge. so just as well i got some pretty thick walled tube of Chris (thanks man) to build a frame. i am also going to make it direct drive due to lack of pull start as it is was broken and thrown out prier to me getting the engine and run starting is now mandatory. though i will likely steal petes idea of hand brake tensioner so i have some means of dis engaging drive.
hope to build some kind of a frame this week.
Posted 14 May 2012 - 08:02 AM
the chinese honda clone pull starters may also work and they are cheap as chips
Posted 14 May 2012 - 08:49 AM
they're 3 piece so could possibly widen them,
forks are ct110 spring over stanchion.
Posted 22 May 2012 - 10:02 PM
Posted 23 May 2012 - 08:09 AM
Posted 23 May 2012 - 08:20 AM
Posted 23 May 2012 - 09:17 AM
your engine is round wrong way g
Nah it's not, if you spun the engine around and ran direct drive the wheel will spin backwards, so he's running a jack shaft...
-'92 Fiat Uno MKII
Posted 23 May 2012 - 02:27 PM
are you using a geardrive to power the jackshaft?
Posted 23 May 2012 - 03:06 PM
Posted 23 May 2012 - 04:19 PM
Posted 23 May 2012 - 04:21 PM
'72 Toyota Crown MS65 - '74 Toyota Crown MS65 - '90 Toyota Crown LS136
Posted 23 May 2012 - 04:33 PM
Freehubs lock up when spun clockwise - if thats a freehub then it will be one going fast backwards bike..not if its a freehub
TL:DR.. engine AND wheel are round the wrong way..
edit - I just noticed its a motorbike wheel and hence there will be no freehub - they are both still around the wrong way though..
N e v e r f o r g e t t h a t y o u r l a s t r i d e e v e r w i l l b e i n a s t a t i o n w a g o n .
Register for the oldschool.co.nz 2014 nationals here
Posted 23 May 2012 - 04:35 PM
10-5 for president.
Posted 23 May 2012 - 04:37 PM
N e v e r f o r g e t t h a t y o u r l a s t r i d e e v e r w i l l b e i n a s t a t i o n w a g o n .
Register for the oldschool.co.nz 2014 nationals here
Posted 23 May 2012 - 06:23 PM
Posted 23 May 2012 - 09:29 PM
Hehe, nah...pretty sure tenfive knows this and is sniggering at us.
Engine mount now requires chopping and rewelding
'72 Toyota Crown MS65 - '74 Toyota Crown MS65 - '90 Toyota Crown LS136
Posted 24 May 2012 - 08:57 AM
depends if kirks 'wrong way' was referring to rotational direction or driveshaft end in relation to rear wheel sprocket
engine runs clockwise so pto needs to be on other side is what i ment
sproket on wheel can be on either side depending on how you conect it to the engine
edit: when i say clockwise i mean from the pull start/flywheel side. Honda says 'counterclockwise from the pto side'. Altho maybe you could buy these old things in backwards running form. used to be able to buy a few engines like that.
Posted 24 May 2012 - 11:55 AM
The engine is very clearly just mounted backwards...
Pretty sure he's planning on flipping the engine and rear wheel and still running a jack shaft regardless..
-'92 Fiat Uno MKII
Posted 24 May 2012 - 12:50 PM
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24 Mar 2011
Did You Know Bordeaux is its Own Planet?
Email – "Wanna drink some Bordeaux?"
Response – "Duh, winning!"
Email – "Okay, we'll send ya some to drink online with other blawgers and the Frenchies."
Response – "Killer!"
This is a rough synopsis of the interchange that happened between Balzac Communication and Marketing and Nectar Wine Blog (me) a few weeks back. I love Washington wine, but I'm always looking for opportunities to expand the travels of my palate. Being that the event was on a Friday night, I was running the risk of being called away by paying customers but anticipated a 4pm start time to be plenty doable.
Joining me for the tasting is one of the wine slingers at Nectar Tasting Room, Ben Hilzinger (affectionately known as Benny by all the adoring 21-24 year old lovelies that come in every Friday and Saturday). Ben is passionate about wine and has a voracious appetite for wine knowledge and experience. Alongside my tasting notes are some of Benny's poetic ramblings.
A brief Bordeaux lesson;
- Southwest corner of France
- Wine history dating back 2000 years (thanks Caesar)
- 700 million bottles of wine produced
- Strictly controlled and regulated
Just like in America, wines in Bordeaux range in quality and price. Tonight's tasting involved five wines from the Bordeaux Superieur AOC. Wines from this appellation come from mostly older vines and most be aged a minimum of 9 months. All five wines tasted range in price from $13-$16 (a bargain for most any region).
"If you want to earn the Bordeaux Supérieur appellation "stamp of approval," you have to comply with particularly strict winemaking conditions that give an optimum expression of the terroir."
The NectarView – A Trip to Planet Bordeaux
I had no idea that Bordeaux was its own planet, but I was really excited for the journey. Uncertain if we traveled by space ship or just virtually through enotravel, I figured I better strap in for the journey. My previous experiences in this price range of French wine left me thinking of trips to my grandma's house and the smell in the 100 year old basement mixed with a little dirt and mushroom.
Wine #1 Chateau La Gatte La Butte 2006
This 100% Merlot really took me by surprise with its strength. A strong sense of place comes through in both the nose and the palate. The wine seemed a little uptight. @PalatePress said it best with "This will be better tomorrow. Too tight. The wine needs a Manhattan, a massage, and a good night's sleep. Needs to relax." The wine is reminiscent of dust covered cherries with a hint of pencil lead. Score this one 3/5.
Wine Slinger Ben – Wed dog nose, well structured, opens up in the back end…"I could sip this."
Wow, he sure waxes poetic on that one…
Wine #2 Chateau de Lugagnac 2008
A 50/50 split of Cabernet and Merlot from 40+ year old vines, the vineyards sit on soils of iron bearing clay and chalk. While at first I didn't think the Lugagnac was as well structured as the first wine (thanks @suburbanwino for calling me out), the wine opened up as it sat in the glass while I tended to a patron. Once back to the wine there was an overwhelming amount of plum on the nose. The wine had a nice fruity front but a very hollow mid-plate. The finish was a little tart. Not a favorite of mine 3-/5
Wine #3 Chateau de Terrefort-Quancard 2008
64% Merlot and 36% Cabernet. The Quancard was not a favorite among several of the tasters. For me I got a little busy during the tasting on this one and couldn't give it my full attention. My buddy @winefoot says, " 2008 Chateau Terrefort-Quancard – rather tart for me- rhubarb, cherries, white pepper, bubble-gum and chalk dust." From @skovi "The 2008 Terrefort-Quancard is definitely earthy; I get forest floor, tobacco, dry fruit, but not a long finish." No score.
Wine Slinger Ben – Subtle nose…not too fruity, lingering finish, approachable earthy finish…wee bit spicy.
Wine #4 Chateau de Parenchere Cuvee Raphael 2007
A blend of 60/40 Cab/Merlot, the Parenchere had a full nose of mint, coffee, dry fruit and tobacco. Great structure on the palate with a great deal of layers. The wine is complex and needs to lay down on the couch for an hour session while I uncover the layers. At this price point, this is by far the best wine of the night. Tweet from @cellarmistress "I still can't get over the muddy, sexy barnyard nose on this thing! Makes me want to mudwrestle! (only kidding!)" 3+/5 (big score for the little price.
Wine Slinger Ben – Wholly shit dude, this is good. Wow!
…again, the boy has a way with words that will make your knees buckle.
Wine #5 Chateau Penin Tradition 2008
While there was a mix up in the tasting (some had 08, some had 09), I had to just drink what I had…bummer. 90% Merlot, 5% Cab and 5% Cab Franc; Ben and I disagreed slightly on the wine. For me there wasn't a ton of depth and character. It smelled nice and nice a nice flavor but the complexities were missing. Seemed reminiscent of a new world wine with berry fruit and smooth vanilla flavors. 3/5
Wine Slinger Ben – Loving this wine, buttery morning toast, great dimensions and balance, warm & inviting, great wine to pair with food and/or stand alone.
To summarize, the overall impression of Planet Bordeaux tasting was excellent. The value to price ratio left me feeling more confident of my next French wine purchase. Now, if only we could get those Frenchies to Americanize the labels so they're not so intimidating to the average consumer.
Other Post Recaps from Friends
The Wellesley Wine Press http://www.wellesleywinepress.com/2011/03/bordeaux-tasting-reveals-affordable.html
Wine Tonite http://www.winetonite.com/2011/03/21/blast-off-to-planet-bordeaux/
My Vine Spot http://vinespot.blogspot.com/2011/03/taste-live-with-planet-bordeaux.html
11 Aug 2010
A Wine Education with L'Ecole 41
If school were like this, I'd have gotten my doctorates degree! L'Ecole 41, French for "The School" district 41 is more appropriately named, "Je t'aime" for the love that it induces upon first sip. Situated in a schoolhouse built in 1915, L'Ecole teaches a master class in Washington wine class, style and marketing. Until the recent changes to Highway 12 in Walla Walla, every visitor entering Walla Wall from the West drove past the distinct schoolhouse tasting room which beckoned all inside for an enological education.
Operated by Megan and Marty Clubb, L'Ecole offers a 27 year lesson plan on Washington Wine. In previous reviews the L'Ecole Columbia Valley Cab finished 2nd in a 5 wine Cabernet shootout (4/5) and the 2007 Perigee was my June wine of the month (4/5). I recently enjoyed their 2007 Syrah, but sadly the bottle was gone before it could make its way to a review.
Visitors to their tasting room can enjoy a 1.3 acre working vineyard and tasting in two restored school rooms. Don't worry; the Vice Principle is not around to slap your hands if you taste incorrectly. Have fun and write on their unique chalkboard counters while you're there. Exploring the schoolhouse is half the fun while visiting L'Ecole.
As a side note, I'm experimenting with a new video format. Not sure why the video didn't render across the full frame. If anyone knows Adobe Premiere Elements, let me know.
The NectarView
2008 L'Ecole 41 Luminesce
- The Stuff: 70% Semillon, 30% Sauvignon Blanc from Seven Hills Vineyards, aged 4 months in neutral French oak barrels. 30% malolactic fermentation; 14.2%ABV
- The Swirl: A pale yellow honey in the glass that strikes a chord of gold
- The Sniff: Tropics and pear on the nose. Not an over the top presentation but can definitely pick out the Sauvignon Blanc characteristics added to this blend.
- The Sip: Nice gentle approaching soft fruit on the front of the tongue that opens up to a full embrace on the mid palate. An amazingly bright acidity finishes off this wine. The flavors are not overwhelming but the presentation is well balanced and thoughtful.
- The Score: At only $20 (and often less on sale or in the store), this is a super wine. I love the mix if characteristics from the Semillon and Sauv Blanc. This wine easily scores a 4/5. Find it under $15 and you've got a 4+/5
91 Pts Wine Enthusiast; 89 Pts Steven Tanzer
2007 L'Ecole 41 Seven Hills Merlot
- The Stuff: 81% Merlot, 11% Cab Sauv, 8% Cab Franc from Seven Hills vineyard. Aged 18 months in 40% new oak, 14.5%ABV; 1326 cases produced
- The Swirl: Good thick color presentation of plum and dark cherry but has about 60% opacity. Nice strong color to the edges.
- The Sniff: Dominate musty earth and grassy herbs that give way to dried cherry and black berry fruit. A moderate amount of cinnamon and cloves are present as well. From the video to further in the night the wine opened up into a more robust aroma of cherry (which I would expect) and vanilla.
- The Sip: A muscular merlot with good dried fruit, earthy terroir, dark fruit and mild tannin. Those that enjoy a subtle elegant merlot may find this more intriguing.
- The Score: At $37 it is more than most people would drop for a Merlot they haven't tasted. If you're looking for a bright cherry vanilla Merlot, you may want to pass, but if you're after a warm earthy muscle Merlot, give it a go. Decanting this wine is recommended. 3+/5
92 pts Wine Enthusiast (Paul Gregutt); 91 pts Wine Advocate
2007 L'Ecole 41 Apogee
- The Stuff: 60% Cab Sauv, 30% Merlot 6% Malbec, 4% Cab Franc; 22 months in 50% new oak. 1630 cases produced, 14.5% ABV
- The Swirl: Thicker and slightly cloudy in color with dark purple tones. No jewelry here.
- The Sniff: A medium brightness of black berry and black cherry fruits along with subtle hints of cocoa and earthiness.
- The Sip: Big boy wine with a good firm structure of dark fruits and strong chalky tannin. If you're looking to sip now, decant for several hours. Would recommend this wine as a special cellar project to pull out in 2013 when it would be more smooth and elegant. Great layers of fruit and firmness.
- The Score: At $50 a good percentage of people will not risk their money without a sample or a strong recommendation. The Apogee is not quite the pinnacle of what it is shooting for but it will be there in 3-5 more years. I score this a 4/5 based on potential.
On the Web – On Twitter – On Facebook
*Wine was provided as an industry sample with the intention to review
26 Apr 2010
Spokane's Nodland Cellars
"That is so cool, he makes his own alcohol," exclaimed Tim during a family reunion trip with Tracy's extended family. That weekend in 1999 gave birth to a new Spokane winery. The journey would still take several more years, but by the fall of 1999 Tracy and Tim acquired some Walla Walla Cabernet, hit the books, talked with winemakers and began experimenting with making wine. Over the years, one wine turned into five different wines and by 2007, Nodland Cellars became Spokane's lucky 13th winery. Those early pre-release years were all about education and refining the process. Classes at UC Davis, Walla Walla Community College and the "school of hard knocks," says Tracy led to their passion for "creating a small amount of the best wine we can make."
Tim and Tracy focus on one red wine each year. If the vintage is right, they'll also produce a Riesling (but it sells out almost as soon as it's bottled). Their Red Blend is a traditional, pre 1870 style, Bordeaux blend. They drive across the state to source all six original Bordeaux varietals Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Malbec, Petit Verdot, and even Carmenere. In a time when wine making can be very corporate and driven by profits and business efficiencies, every cluster of grapes is hand harvested, hand sorted, crushed, barreled, racked and bottled by Tim and Tracy. The majority of their fruit comes from one acre each at Pepperbridge and Seven Hills vineyards. Their blocks are next to the same blocks used by Leonetti, Reininger, and Pepperbridge.
Both Tracy and Tim said that their favorite part of the process is blending. Once the grapes have gone through their two years in oak, each wine is tasted and then mixed together like brush strokes on a canvas. As they blend they share thoughts and ideas and the picture comes together as a beautiful work of art. It's not about slapping together traditional blending percentages. It's about marrying the fruit together so that each showcase their strengths without overbearing the other.
Tim is a lawyer by day. When I asked what type of law he practiced, he joked, "very little." Actually, Tim is a hard working, defense lawyer with an amazing reputation for integrity. Tim's primary focus is DUI defense. The irony is not lost that Tim owns a winery AND defends those who drink and drive. Tim is also an accomplished jazz musician. While he is very skilled at everything he does, you can tell from talking with him that jazz and wine are his passions. Tracy is always hard at work at the tasting room and their 1200 square foot wine making facility. She is a talented artist. "I make wine, I drink wine, and I paint wine," says Tracy. Often times you can arrive in the tasting room and find Tracy painting something new while Tim jams on his guitar. Tracy even puts a little bit of Nodland wine into every painting. The residue sentiment is collected when they clean the barrels and that dark inky purple paste is added to anywhere wine is used in a painting.
Tim's love of jazz and Tracy's love of art is how the Nodland Cellars label was born. They had an artist line up that they wanted to use, but as the time drew near, she disappeared on a walk about in Australia. Scrambling, Tim and Tracy discovered artwork by Tim Rogerson. As luck (or fate) would have it, Mr. Rogerson agreed to paint the label and created a beautiful image of Tim on guitar, and Tracy on the microphone (with a glass of wine in her hand).
The Nodland's produce 400 cases per year and self distribute almost 100% of the product through their mailing list, tasting room and restaurants like Latah Bistro, Melting Pot, Beverly's, Wild Sage, Nikos and local stores like Vino, Rocket Market, Bottles, Huckleberry's and Wine Styles. Tim and Tracy would love to keep production low but are always looking to expand if the fruit is special. They may even consider moving from their current location (11616 E. Montgomery, in the Spokane Valley) if the right opportunity presents itself. The tasting room is open Noon – 4pm, until they sell out. Call ahead 509.927.7770.
The Current Line Up:
2005 Red Blend $35 (SOLD OUT)
2006 Red Blend $35
- 38% Cab Sauv, 28% Merlot, 14% Carmenere, 12% Cab Franc, 6% Malbec, 2% Petit Verdot
2006 Reserve Cab (McClellan Vineyards) $45 – only 40 cases produced – REVIEWED HERE
- 94% Cab, 5% Merlot, 1% Petit Verdot
02 Dec 2009
Episode #9 Bulldog vs. Cougar Battle
Gonzaga Bulldogs; once the cinderella of college Basketball. Washington State Cougars; once the cellar dwellers of the PAC-10 conference. Both teams are now solid contenders with Gonzaga making the NCAA conference for 10 straight seasons and WSU reaching the Sweet 16 in 2007. Tonight, Dec 2, they battle in Spokane at the MAC.
Spokane wine is an underdog among the growing Washington wine explosion. WSU, in the Palouse, and just a short drive to the prestigious Walla Walla wine region. Tonight they battle in the drinknectar challenge!
WSU is represented by their new head coach, the top scorer in the nation Klay Thompson and Cougar Crest Winery. The 2005/6 Bordeaux style blend (with Syrah). Winemaker Deborah Hansen offers a smooth smelling and tasting blend that give the Cougars a strong showing. The wine lack a lot of intrigue and character but has a nice finish. Proceeds from this wine go to support ICU, neurosurgery, and trauma doctors who help give life to winemaker Deborah Hansen's daughter.
The Zags are represented by 10 years of winning tradition, the 2nd winningest active coach, a young inexperienced team wanting to prove themselves again, and Grande Ronde Cellars. Grande Ronde procures their grapes from the Walla Walla region but calls home 902 W. 2nd Ave in Spokane. The 2005 Cellar Red is a traditional Bordeaux style blend. The sniff is more dynamic and the sip is more floral, perfume, and spice.
The NectarView
Grande Ronde Cellars 2005 Cellar Red
- The Swirl – Medium tone with a very nice purple jewel tone. Moderately see through
- The Sniff – Immediate sense of clove and cinnamon spice. The berry comes through on the back-end. A slight floral element presents itself
- The Sip – Still spicy on the sip with a good interesting flavor. Dark berry fruits begin to present themselves and the finish lingers for quite some time. Tannins, alcohol and acid are not dominant. My wife noted a perfume / soap taste.
- Price to Value Ratio $$$ The wine has a wide flavor profile and gives the drinker a lot to consider but in the end there is too much perfume as it finishes.
Cougar Crest 2005/6 Dedication Three
- The Swirl: The Cougar Crest is slightly more cloudy but still mildly translucent. Lack of legs for low residual sugar.
- The Sniff: Not as much aromatic presence on this wine. More fruity with cherry being the most predominant.
- The Swirl: Good smooth flavor profile. The wine lacks a lingering finish but presents a hint of chocolate at the end. This wine has slightly more acid but less tannin and moderate alcohol.
- Price to Value Ratio $$$+ With a more easy drinking feel and an overall stronger quality, the Cougar Crest is the better value for $20.
Led by senior Matt Bouldin, Gonzaga overcomes a 14 point deficit to beat the Cougars 74 to 69. Once again the hustle, strong coaching winning experience prevail. As far as the wine goes the final decision rests with you. If I were to buy another bottle for another game, I would choose the Cougar Crest only because of the mild flavor profile. Like I said in the video, if you are after a more dynamic taste experience, then go with the Grande Ronde. Great showing by Spokane and the Palouse. Basketball game goes to Gonzaga, wine goes to Cougar (Crest).


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Thread: Forum Games
Forum Games
Is it just me or do you guys have a lot more threads for games? I mean in comparison to other forums I'm a member at, we just seem less focused on trucks as a whole. I'm not bashing anyone or saying bad things because this is my favorite forum easily. Everyone is super friendly and there is lots of accurate info to be had... It's just when I click on what's new, over half the threads are games. If its just me I'll shut up but I'm curious as to what others think...
Adam2004.5 CCSB DuramaxMax Effort Tuning by Idaho Rob - Goerend Transmission - PCV ReRoute - EGR Blocked - Plugged Resonator - 5" Diamond Eye Turbo Back - Tie Rod Sleeves - All On Mod - Edge Insight CTS - Recon Taillights, Cab Lights, & 3rd Brake Light
05-13-2012, 11:53 PM #2There was a massive bump of outdated threads in the games forum, today, for some reason. I've seen that before. I don't know why people do it.
Now that, said, what you'll find is that the people who post here every day, throughout the day, use chat and games to interact. It keeps the super regular/active people, here, from growing bored. It also helps them get to know one another... as most of the games digress a bit into random discussions.
I know I'm in the games forum a lot. I'm usually reading other posts and responding to them while looking at the games. The write-up I did on the the generation2 custom LED headlights I made took -hours- to write, as I had to upload pics, link them individually, described what was in them, as well as provide the text write-up. I'd not have been able to sit through that in a single shot like I did without the games section to keep me entertained.Last edited by SurrealOne; 05-14-2012 at 12:00 AM.
05-13-2012, 11:56 PM #3I have noticed that a lot of the games are played by all the regulars and I can definitely understand that you guys are keeping yourself entertained.
05-14-2012, 01:54 PM #4yep lots of folks here like to play games, I don't mind that they play games in the games and contest section of the forums, it does get a little annoying when the games shift over to other sections though.....But hey!!!!! different strokes for different folks,,,, it takes all types ,,and i believe that most folks are welcome here
05-14-2012, 03:34 PM #6Heh!! just games with out rules ....lmao
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