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Number 31
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Historical Traveler Reviews Number 31 Dublin
Home away from Home
Number 31 is what makes traveling in Europe fun and unique. If you want the Holiday Inn, don't stay here. If you want wonderful hosts and staff who go out of their way to make reservations, make excellent restaurant and sightseeing suggestions, etc., stay at Number 31. If you are in a hurry and don't eat breakfast, don't stay here. If you want an outstanding breakfast with a variety of choices and a chance to meet friendly people from all over the world, then Number 31 is for you. It is in a building that is over 100 years old, in an elegant part of Dublin, yet convenient to sights, shopping, etc.. It's age means that not all the rooms are the same - and each room has its own unique quirks. This is a place for people who love the unique and original - if you have special needs such as a room not on the street because you are a light sleeper (European hotels do not have air conditioning so there can be street noise, esp. on weekends) then email your preferences - Noel Comer will do his best to accomodate. We stayed there 3 different times and occupied two different rooms. The rooms in the Main House are more luxurious and the Carriage House is more rustic; but, all the beds and bedding were comfortable, the food was outstanding whether we stayed in delux or standard rooms and the people friendly. I preferred the delux room in the Main House because it reminded me of a Merchant /Ivory film but I'll go back to Ireland and to Number 31 because of the people. It set the perfect tone for our wonderful trip to Ireland.
Avoid Number 31: we had an awful experience
Thank goodness for feedback forums such as this to read REAL reviews by REAL people- not just the ads Number 31 runs. Don't believe the hype... the place is definitely shabby, not chic. Smells. No Hot water!!! C'mon- the place is a dump and they have the gall to charge absolute top dollar ($250 US, again not what they advertise). AVOID this hovel, and enjoy your stay in Dublin.
Charming, friendly, cosy and unique! A lovely experience!!
As someone who has stayed at No 31 on several occasions I just don't recognise the place as described in some of the previous reviews! I think staying at No 31 is a real pleasure!! The guesthouse itself is lovely - the communal areas are interesting, charming and much more pleasant than those at the impersonal chain hotels. The rooms are cosy and very comfortable. In fact, the whole place has a really nice atmosphere about it. The staff have never been anything but polite and friendly, and they go out of their way to make you feel at home. The breakfast is gorgeous and the dining area is such a pretty place to eat it in! If you want to stay at a hotel - where every one is the same no matter which country of the world you are in, and where you are just a room number - then go ahead! If, however, you want a beautiful and unique experience then stay here!!
OK, me too -- really disappointed
Like most of the other recent reviewers, my companion and I had read high praise of Number 31's bohemian shabby chic, and were delighted by the courtyard and entrance hall -- indeed, as far as the first room we were offered, which looked fabulous, had no windows, and stank of damp mould. We balked, and were grudgingly given a room with a French window over the garden -- which was just a well, as proximity to the cleaning stores in the hall infused this room with the persistent stick of disinfectant, to the point that ventilation was positively necessary; however, proximity to the kitchen above (where everyone seemed to be working in wooden clogs on a tiled floor) rather dulled the charm of birdsong from the garden. The room was rich in decorative details which looked less like boho chic than a series a botched jobs, the worse for wear. After two nights of this, we relocated to The Townhouse (which is not outstanding, but has sufficient charms) and were altogether happier!
Thiefs! NO Hot Water!! Smelled like BUG REPELLENT! I cannot stress how BAD No.31 is. Smooth talk, but a dump.
I cannot write a stronger review AGAINST No. 31. It unapologetically had NO HOT WATER!!! It SMELLED strongly of bug repellent, it was NOISY, it was VERY EXPENSIVE to boot!!! The owner is not to be trusted. Do NOT stay at No. 31; we could not leave fast enough!
Disappointing for the cost
I also decided to splurge for a stay at Number 31 with my two children in June, 2003. We were given a basement level room that was quite large, but, as one reviewer noted, more shabby than chic. It also had a mildewy odor. Our room opened onto a very dirty entryway that led to an outside door so it didn't feel very secure. And the view out the window was of a dingy stairway leading up to the street. The location was OK for us as it's a moderate walk away from the center. The public areas of the hotel are quite lovely, but I noticed that no one seemed to use them. Some of the staff were quite nice, while others were quite indifferent. And I've had much better breakfasts at very inexpensive B&B's. I felt that I had wasted money at this hotel where the amenities were no where near worth the cost.
Make sure you ask for a nice room!
We stayed here in October 2002 and were initially given what seemed to be a former locker/changing room with no window. We complained and managed to get moved the following night. The rooms in the main house are much better and I can't fault the staff or the breakfast. Just make sure you specify where you want to stay when you book. I wouldn't return because I think there are probably better places to stay that are more central.
Shabby Chic - or just plain Shabby
When I booked the hotel, it was the fourth most popular place to stay in Dublin on Trip advisor - by the time I got back it was going down the list fast - and I can see why. The rooms need some major maintenance. Loose sockets, broken windows, temporary covers over holes in the walls, baths which have seen better days, I was very disappointed. Only 1 member of staff was curteous. The hotel is next to a main road, which allows the Dublin nightlife right into your room.
Very noisy between 2 and 5 am - I can only agree with another reviewers comment - if you want a good nights sleep - don't stay here - for the same Euros you can enjoy quieter hotels, with better facilities and polite staff, closer to the centre
Interesting But Disappointing
Decided to splurge and stay at Number 31 after reading many different reviews and finding myself intrigued by the uniqueness of the hotel. We were disappointed. It is a beautiful building with a magical entrance and a lovely garden. Most of the staff was friendly and gracious with a few exceptions who were somewhat haughty. Our biggest disappointment, however, was with the general shabbiness and sloppiness of the hotel.
Although this isn't the most expensive hotel in Dublin, it is still rather pricey, and we expected a higher standard than we experienced.
It seemed to us that the management of the hotel are resting on their hype and are not running as tight a ship as they should.
Wow what a breakfast
A friend of mine and I stayed in Number 31 for 5 days in mid June 2003.
We stayed in the coach-house area (there is a seperate Georgian area which is more expensive) in a twin bedroom. The room was full of character and was very comfortable, particularly the beds. Breakfast was served between 8-10am, and the meal was often the highlight of the day! The cranberry loaf was spectacular, and the full Irish was also very popular. The hosts and staff took fantastic care of us - nothing we asked of them was too much trouble for them. All in all we would highly recommend Number 31 for anyone who visits Dublin. Well done Number 31!
TripAdvisor Reviews Number 31 Dublin
Travel Blogs from Dublin
A (full) Day and 2 nights in Dublin
We arrived in Dublin Thursday evening (right at rush hour; our time on the Irish country side had spoiled us!) traffic was stop and go and we were all ready to get here! We pulled into No31, and Noel; the owner jumped into our car, pulled us around to park, got all the bags and greeted us with energetic ease. Our rooms are architectural gems, with …
Dublin, Ireland
... more than 100 Catholic Churches, mostly in Britain but also inEurope, Scandinavia and America. It is a lovely Gothic building with very high ceilings and some nice stained glass windows. Last stop was the Guinness Storehouse, the home of Guinness obviously. The building is like a giant seven storied pint glass. You start at the bottom and work your way up to the top where you can have a pint of Guinness on presentation of your ticket. I had some of Kev's, not to ...
Drink – Look – Brrrr
... people to buy it and various other bits of interesting trivia. Having reached the Gravity Bar that sits atop the museum, it was time for Mum to drink her free pint of Guinness. Her excitement was palpable, whereas I was psyching myself to drink the thick black liquid before lunch (eck). Mum enjoyed her pint, while I gave it a good go and managed to finish 1/3 of mine – mine did not go to waste, as Mum still had room to drink that one too. A couple of ...
North to South
... it way through small seaside villages with the white stucco or grey stone buildings built so close to the road side. As we drive along the road there are stone walls waist high that are built either side of the tight thoroughfare so when a larger vehicle is on, one has to pull to the side to let through. We arrive at the causeway and as expected we had hardly seen anyone on the roads but the visitors centre car park was filled with tourist buses and people everywhere. We enter ...
Dublin day tripping
... to leave. We then stumbled on The Stags Head. A pub famous in Dublin as it has featured in many commercials for beer companies and also movies like Michael Collins. We had a great meal and the publican came and sat with us and talked cameras as he has a D7000. He showed me his photos and was happy for me to also take photos in the Pub. We then made our way back to the bus and headed for Ashbourne. When we got back to ...


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Il Pettirosso
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Siena and San Giormano Trip
... flag. Before each horse race, all 17 horses get blessed in a chuch from their respective district. If the church has too many steps then the blessing is done in front of the church. If nature calls a horse during the blessing, it is considered good luck. We toured the city for a two hour guided tour. Our bus driver was named Franco and the tour guide was named Lucca. We saw a building with the faces of Michelangelo ...
Once Siena, never forgotten.
... yearly Palio horse racing event ( the next one is next weekend, incidentally). It took another two minutes to get to the magnificent Duomo, although I'd already had a great view of it from my hotel room.
The sightseeing had to wait however until I'd performed a task I'd been meaning to do for some weeks. Wait for it!..........the first thing I did after checking into the hotel was to shave off my beard. Our dear, old Aunt Lizzie used to ...
Monterosso, Cinque Terre
... Had a gelato- the man at the store said it was "Italian" flavored. Guess there is no English word to match it, but it was yummy. Almost toffy nut flavored... Wasn't my first gelato either and won't be my last ;) Today was more for relaxing than anything else. I have been so busy going here and there, shooting photos like a maniac. So just a few photos today. Then off to ...
Beautiful Tuscany
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Miami (Ohio) coach Chuck Martin added another familiar player to his first RedHawks team.
Former Notre Dame cornerback Lo Wood will join the former Irish offensive coordinator as a fifth-year transfer, according to multiple reports Thursday.
Wood is the third former Notre Dame player to transfer to Miami under the graduate-student rule that allows athletes who have completed their undergraduate degree to transfer and play without sitting out a year. He joins former Irish quarterback Andrew Hendrix and tight end Alex Welch in the move to the RedHawks.
Wood had been granted his release from Notre Dame more than a month ago.
The 5-foot-11, 194-pounder had been in line for a starting spot going into his junior season before he ruptured an Achilles tendon in fall camp, keeping him out of the 2012 season. KeiVarae Russell, a converted running back, stepped into the starting spot left open by Wood's injury as the Irish went 12-0 and earned a spot in the BCS championship game.
Wood returned last season, but he couldn't dethrone Russell or Bennett Jackson in the starting lineup and slipped behind Cole Luke and Devin Butler on the depth chart.
Wood played in 31 games, recording nine tackles with 1 ½ for loss.
Wood's father, Lo Wood Sr., told the South Bend Tribune that reuniting with Martin was a big factor in his son picking the RedHawks. Martin coached defensive backs and then safeties in his first two seasons at Notre Dame before moving over to offensive coordinator the last two years.
"It was all about Coach Martin and opportunity," Lo Wood Sr. told the Tribune "Lo's always liked and respected Coach Martin. Lo accomplished his goal of reality, and that was getting a Notre Dame degree. Now it becomes about going after his dream, and that's getting a chance to play to see if he can take his game to the NFL."


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Dr. Lawrence A. Eskew, MD
Urological Surgery, Piedmont Urological Associates
- 218 Gatewood Ave
High Point, NC 27262
- 1 Office Location
- (336) 802-2030
Dr. Lawrence A. Eskew has been practicing medicine for 21 years. Dr. Eskew graduated from the Wake Forest University School of Medicine in 1993. He practices medicine in High Point, NC and specializes in Urological Surgery. Dr. Eskew is affiliated with High Point Regional Health. He speaks English and Spanish.
Gender: Male
Years in Practice: 21 Years
Languages Spoken: English, Spanish
Medical School: Wake Forest University School of Medicine
Graduation Date: 1993
Hospital Affiliations: High Point Regional Health
Specialties: Urological Surgery


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For amplified musical instruments such as electric guitars, this method of extending the range of timbre variation available from a "wah" type of pedal controlled sound modification effect provides musicians with increased flexibility of expression by including within the controlling range of the foot pedal an unmodified "dry" condition in addition to the variable modified condition with the capability of blending smoothly back and forth between the two conditions.
1. In a sound amplification system for electrical musical instruments, a method of modifying resultant timbre which comprises
(a) deriving an electrical control signal, responsive to manipulation of a single sensor by a musician playing an instrument in conjunction with an electronic amplification system comprising an amplifier and a controlling circuit connected between the instrument and the amplifier, the controlling circuit being capable of varying the frequency response of the system,
(b) applying the derived control signal to an input of the controlling circuit, and
(c) programming the controlling circuit to respond to the control signal so as to vary the shape of the system frequency response over a range of smoothly variable shapes including a condition wherein the response shape is substantially flat over a full musical frequency range, and apart from the substantially flat frequency response condition, the frequency response is characterized as having a predominant resonant peak at a frequency which may be varied by the musican according to pressure applied by him to said single sensor.
2. The invention as recited in claim 1 wherein the controlling circuit is programmed such that: with no pressure applied to the sensor, the response shape is made to be essentially flat; then, as light pressure is applied to the sensor, the response shape is made to develop a resonant peak at relatively low frequency; and then as still further pressure is applied to the sensor, the frequency of the resonant peak is made to increase.
3. The invention as recited in claim 1 wherein the controlling circuit is further programmed to provide additionally (an auxiliary unmodified signal) at the output of an auxiliary audio channel having substantially flat frequency response over a full musical frequency range, an auxiliary unmodified signal, controllable in amplitude by manipulation of the sensor.
4. The invention as recited in claim 1 wherein the controlling circuit is programmed to cause the gain at the peak frequency in the modified response condition to be higher than the gain in the flat response condition and to increase with increasing peak frequency, and to cause the gain at the lower and upper ends of the musical audio frequency spectrum to be lower in the modified response condition than in the flat response condition, whereby compensation is provided to minimize variations in subjective loudness as the sensor is operated throughout its control range in the performance of music containing a wide band spectrum of audio energy.
This invention relates to the field of electronic musical instruments, in particular electric guitars and the like associated with electronic amplification, where a musician playing an instrument wishes to manipulate variations in the timbre of notes played. More particularly, this invention relates to a method of modifying the frequency response of a musical instrument amplification system by means of a sensor actuated by the musician playing the instrument, to provide the musician with expression control thorugh a continuously variable range of frequency response shapes including a condition of essentially flat frequency response.
It is well known to modify the electrical sound output from an electric guitar or the like by means of electronic circuits controlled by a foot pedal sensor. Such pedal sensors and related electronics circuits are referred to as "effects pedals". An effect pedal is customarily equipped with a foot operated switch, called a "bypass" switch for cancelling the modified sound when it is desired to revert to normal "dry" sound having a substantially flat frequency response for reproducing the original sound unmodified. The bypass switch is not intended to be operated during the performance of musical passages, since the switching is abrupt and musically disruptive. Consequently, such switching normally must be avoided by the musician during performance of a continuous musical passage.
The present invention originates from the discovery that the variety of expression available from an ordinary effect pedal could be extended and enhanced by including within the range of the pedal, the "dry" flat frequency response condition, and providing the ability to blend smoothly to the modified effect using the pedal, thereby eliminating the bypass switch as a separate entity, but retaining its function, not merely as an option to be selected between musical performances, but as a distinctively expressive element continuously variable during musical performance.
By introducing into the audio-signal path, between a musical instrument and an amplifier, a controlling circuit activated from a sensor such as a foot pedal manipulated by the musician, and programming the controlling circuit to provide, in addition to special effects available over the major portion of the control range of the pedal, a "dry" flat frequency response condition at one end of the control range of the pedal, this invention expands the range of musical expression available from an effects pedal while eliminating the need for a bypass switch with its inherant limitations.
In one embodiment of this invention which has proven particularly beneficial, the modification effect is of the class referred to as a "wah" or "wah-wah" effect, where the sound of the word "wah" simulates the varying timbre of a musical note as the pedal is depressed. The "wah" effect is producedd by varying the peak frequency of a single resonant peak or formant in the controlling circuit's frequency curve. In this embodiment of this invention, a preferred mode of pedal control was achieved by programming the controlling circuit so that with no pressure applied to the pedal, the "dry" flat response condition is available. Then, as the pedal is depressed, a low frequency peak gradually appears in the response; and then as the pedal is further depressed the frequency of the peak is caused to increase.
It is an object of this invention to provide musicians with a method of controlling sound modification by introducing variations in the frequency response of an electronic musical instrument by means of a controlling circuit programmed to include a substantially flat frequency "dry" condition in addition to a variable modified sound effect within one continuously variable pedal sensor range, to enable a musician to blend smoothly between the "dry" and the modified sound as a musically expressive performance technique.
It is a further object of this invention to eliminate the need for a bypass switch on an effect pedal by including the bypass function within the continuous control range of the pedal sensor action.
Further objects and advantages of this invention will become apparent from the study of the following portion of the application, the claims and the attached drawings.
FIG. 1 shows a block diagram of a preferred embodiment of this invention. An electric guitar 1 has its output connected by cable 6 to the audio input of a controlling circuit 3 which has also a control input connected by cable 8 from a foot pedal sensor 2. The output of controlling circuit 3 is connected by cable 7 to the input of amplifier 4 which drives loudspeaker 5.
FIG. 2 shows a family of audio frequency response curves characterizing the way in which the controlling circuit 3 is programmed to cause foot pedal sensor 2 to act upon the output of guitar 1 according to the method of sound control taught by this invention in its preferred embodiment. The curves are numbered 0 through 5, corresponding with increasing pressure applied to foot pedal sensor 2 by a musician playing guitar 1. It will be noted that Curve 0, which corresponds to the condition of no pressure applied to the pedal sensor, is substantially flat across the useful frequency range, producing an unmodified natural or "dry" sound. Then as the pedal is depressed to �20% of its total range, as shown in Curve 1, a low frequency resonant peak begins to appear in the response. Further pressure on the pedal causes the frequency of the peak to increase as shown in Curves 2, 3, 4, and 5. It should be understood that the transitions between each of the curves shown occur smoothly and continously, as a function of each pedal depression.
Auxiliary output 9 from controlling circuit 3 may be provided as an optional extra feature, to make available the unmodified "dry" audio signal from guitar 1, with controlling circuit 3 further programmed to enable pedal sensor 2 to function as a volume control with respect to output 9.
Referring to FIG. 1, controlling circuit 3 is housed in a separate enclosure and is connected to guitar 1 and amplifier 4 by standard shielded audio cables 6 and 7 respectively. The output from amplifier 4 is converted to audible sound by loudspeaker 5 as commonly practiced. Foot pedal sensor 2 comprises a pressure sensitive resistive element connected to develop a varying d.c. control voltage proportional to pressure applied to the pedal. This d.c. control voltage is applied to controlling circuit 3 through ordinary wiring cable 8. It is within the competence of those skilled in the present state of the art of electronic circuit design to configure and program the controlling circuit 3 to accomplish the response characterized by the curves of FIG. 2.
A musician playing guitar 1 without placing his foot on pedal 2 will obtain the original sound of the guitar, since the frequency response of the controlling circuit 3 is flat as shown in Curve 0 of FIG. 2. At any time he can introduce the "wah" effect, as gradually as he wishes, by depressing pedal 2 with his foot. Once introduced, the "wah" pedal effect may be used in a customary manner, as he varies the peak frequency by means of his foot pressure, according to Curves 1 through 5 in FIG. 2. However, at any time, by reducing his foot pressure sufficiently he can execute smooth excursions back into the flat frequency response "dry" condition shown in Curve 0 of FIG. 2. This freedom to blend smoothly and fluently back and forth between the "dry" and the "wah" conditions places at the command of the musician an expanded range of timbre variation and resulting sound nuances for enriching his musical vocabulary; performance heretofore unattainable with conventional "wah" type effects pedals.
To achieve a distinctive mode of performance desired in the preferred embodiment of this invention, the particular contours and levels of Curves 0 through 5 of FIG. 2 were evolved to satisfy two basic criteria;
(a) to maximize the range of frequency response shape alteration and consequent timbre variation available, and
(b) to minimize variations in subjective loudness of sound output from loudspeaker 5, over the pedal control range, for musical content typical of guitars and similar stringed instruments: thus in effect, to prevent the pedal from acting as a volume control over any part of its range.
Hence, in the programming of the controlling circuit 3 of FIG. 1, the shapes of Curves 1 through 5 of FIG. 2 satisfy criteria (a), while the assigned levels of these curves relative to each other and to Curve 0 achieve a substantial degree of subjective uniformity of loudness over the pedal, control range, to satisfy criteria (b).
The particular type of pedal mechanism employed in the preferred embodiment of this invention is pressure sensitive, operates through its entire range with no appreciable travel of its treadle surface, and returns automatically to a starting condition corresponding to Curve 0 of FIG. 2 whenever applied pressure is removed from the treadle surface of the pedal. It is obvious that other pedal constructions could be used with this invention, for example a common type having a pivoted treadle part with moves through a considerable angle of rotation throughout its range, and which may be friction loaded so as to retain a particular setting after the player's foot is removed rather than returning automatically to a starting condition.
This invention is susceptable of various modifications and alternatives, such as the substitution of other musical sound modifications effects, for example, "phase shifters", "flangers", "chorus effects" and the like in place of the "wah" effect described in this embodiment: the spirit and scope of this invention is intended to include all such modifications, alternatives an equivalents.
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Book Description:
Dr. Seuss's irrepressible optimism is front and center in Did I Ever Tell You How Lucky You Are? "When you think things are bad, when you feel sour and blue,when you start to get mad . . .you should do what I do!"So begins the terrific advice of the wise old man in the Desert of Drize. This classic book provides the perfect antidote for readers of all ages who are feeling a bit down in the dumps. Thanks to Dr. Seuss's trademark rhymes and signature illustrations, readers will, without a doubt, realize just how lucky they truly are.
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Overall: 4.7 / 5 based on 158 reviews
148 of 158 reviewers would recommend this product to a friend.
I love this shirt -
By: Gardener252 from Concord, VA
this shirt looks good right out of the dryer and fits wonderfully - not too big nor too small. I am going to order another one in another color.
Wife loves the fit -
By: OpsGuy from Phoenix, AZ
Top 500 Contributor
The tailoring is well executed, the fabric is soft but highly wrinkle resistant.
Wrinkle-Free Cotton Shirt -
By: Marjelle from CAMBRIDGE, MA
This shirt is very nice. It fits well and I like the color. I bought a silk shirt at the same time and I prefer the silk shirt. It is softer with the same great fit! I don't understand why the bottons are sewn on with a white thread!
Sorry to see the old fit go -
By: Meridoc from Warrenton Oregon
Top 250 Contributor
This shirt has been a staple in my wardrobe for many many years. When I could no longer ignore the wear to my last two shirts (purchased 6 - 8 years ago! testimony to their quality), I bought a new blue and white one in the same size as the old. I AM SO DISAPPOINTED! The sleeve has been trimmed 3" in width. While still wearable, it is binding when bending ones arms, causing the shoulders to pucker up and forcing one to tug down the sleeves each time. The the body has been trimmed as well. Those of you who like a closer fit will enjoy it. I am of the other camp---I like ease in my garments. The quality is still high and the blue is beautiful, hence the 4 stars. I find that Orvis in the last year has consistently cut their clothes--particulary tops--much more closely than in the past. Due to customer requests? saving productions costs? I don't know, but will start searching for another vendor, at least for shirts like this. SO SAD!!
Absolutely My Favorite Shirt -
By: LuckySeven from Parker, Texas
Awesome shirt. It is so comfortable to wear to work or just to wear for fun. Love the color and material of the shirt.
A Great Shirt -
By: LibraryLady95354 from Modesto, CA
I have several of these shirts in different colors and always receive compliments. They always look sharp and crisp and stay that way throughout the work day. The color choices are always very nice, but I would appreciate one in an ivory/cream shade. Thanks, Orvis!
Not for petites -
By: YorktownOrvis from Yorktown, VA
A very nice shirt but was just too long for me- making it too snug for my hips. The sleeves are too long as well. Loved the purple color. I had hoped that the Basil color was the same green as in the image but it's not. It's not even close. The Basil is a lighter mint green and not the rich vibrant green on my computer screen. I'll have to exchange for a shorter blouse/shirt.
Really doesn't need ironing! -
By: Isail from Illinois
My wife had many of these blouses and was always happy with the look after coming out of the dryer. Plus the monogram make this blouse a go any where piece of clothing.
Best Blouses Ever ! -
By: Pongidae from Grand Junction, CO
Once again I bought wrinkle-free cotton blouses from Orvis for my wife and once again she has found them to be wonderful. Not only do they look nice and professional but they are really wrinkle-free. I can say this as I often do our ironing and have to slave over two of Orvis' major competitors blouses that we bought that were supposed to be wrinkle-free or wrinkle resistant but are more like wrinkle-prone. It would be hard to imagine a better blouse than this.
Great shirt! -
By: BoiseGal from Boise, ID
I was very pleased with the shirts I ordered. It is a great wardrobe staple item. I appreciate that it doesn't have any pockets, extra seams or any other unnecessary decoration. Great to wear with jeans, layered or dressed up. Less packaging would be appreciated though.
|Wrinkle-Resistant Pure Cotton from Orvis
All Cotton. No Wrinkles. No Dry Cleaning. No Joke.
Our Women's Wrinkle-Resistant Cotton Shirts offer all the superior comfort, softness, and good looks of cotton in a new wrinkle resistant that requires no ironing. Available in a wide range of colors, they are ideal for travel and every day. No more expensive laundry bills, morning wardrobe scrambles, or rumpled appearances at important business meetings. Our wrinkle-resistant cotton apparel always look pressed and ready to go right out of the dryer or laundry basket.
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Because cotton holds 15% of its weight in water, and moves that moisture naturally to the outside of the garment, cotton feels cooler on hot days and is more comfortable next to the skin. This cotton also takes color extremely well, resulting in clean graphic patterns with punch that will stay bright throughout years of washings. When removed promptly from the dryer, they look freshly ironed.
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Hi: 8° Lo:2°
By Ian Dipple Wednesday 19 December 2012 Updated: 19/12 13:00
THE POLICE and Crime Commissioner for West Mercia has hit back at claims of 'cronyism' over the appointment of his election campaign manager as his assistant.
Bill Longmore was savaged by councillors on the newly-formed Police and Crime Panel for proposing Barrie Sheldon as his deputy on a £50,000 salary.
They accused the former police officer of appointing his 'buddy' without going through a proper process and recommended he reconsider.
The selection of Mr Sheldon was confirmed this week and in a direct appeal to residents Mr Longmore said it was necessary to his job, while pointing out the law allowed commissioners to directly appoint a deputy without going through a selection process.
Mr Longmore added while he had worked with Mr Sheldon during his time with Staffordshire Police, he had not seen him for 28 years and only got back in touch with him six months ago when campaigning for the role of PCC.
"I have carefully considered the Police and Crime Panel's report outlining their recommendations about my proposal to appoint Barrie as Deputy PCC. I have taken these on board however I remain confident Barrie's qualities will complement those I bring to the PCC Office," he said.
"Barrie's role will be vital to assist me to discharge the major responsibilities the Government has set.
"West Mercia is a huge geographical area and there is simply no way I could do justice to the one million plus people right across the counties of Herefordshire, Shropshire and Worcestershire working on my own.
"Barrie was a senior lecturer in policing, criminal justice, and terrorism at Teeside University and was responsible for the professional development of police officers in West Mercia and elsewhere.
"I can reassure residents of West Mercia I would not make this appointment if I did not feel it was absolutely necessary to ensure I do the best job possible during my time in office."
Mr Sheldon added: "I believe my vast amount of experience in education and the police service will be helpful on many levels, including engaging with local people, controlling budgets and helping set police priorities."
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National Lampoon's European Vacation
Time Out rating:
Rating: 3/5
Not yet rated
Time Out says
Thu Dec 1 2011The first sequel in Lampoon's still ongoing cash-cow movie series isn't a patch either on its predecessor 'Vacation', or the festive follow-up 'Christmas Vacation', but there are still laughs to be had as the Griswold family win a trip to the Old Continent and discover a multitude of crude national stereotypes and slumming bit-part actors. The London scenes are enjoyable – the 'look kids... Big Ben... Parliament' roundabout routine should be a staple of every family trip to the capital – but overall, it's not quite funny or memorable enough.
Author: Tom Huddleston
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The novelty manufacturing baby seuss 7 plates is sold out or discontinued. We found 94 related products.
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Out Of Ground Torso Halloween Decor Out Of Ground Torso measures approximately 23 inches high x 22 inches wide (at the shoulders). Made of latex, fabric and metal. Eyes light up red and requires 3 AAA Batteries that are not included. Arms are posable and bend out to approximately 4 feet wide.
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Forum Novelties Over The Hill Exerciser Gag Gift [Toy] Forum Novelties Over The Hill Exerciser Gag Gift [Toy] All of our items are located in multiple warehouses! Economy Shipping for Non Media items is 4.99 for the first and $ 1 for each additional item. It might take 7-10 days to be delivered. If you live in the continental US and need an item fast we recommend selecting UPS 2nd day Air and we'll mail it out the next business day at the latest!
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The Rhode Island Novelty 7 Red Police Beacon Light makes a great addition to any party. It measures seven by six inches and includes a five-foot long UL listed power cord.
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Added your GPO to point clients at the WSUS box?
Hey Guys
So I think I have setup our WSUS server up correctly and it is showing that it's downloaded a few thousand updates although when you click on computers it's not showing any? I have tried clicking add a group and then added Domain Computers as a group but it's still not showing any.... now I'm just confused?
Added your GPO to point clients at the WSUS box?
Screen Shot 2014-06-03 at 15.38.36.png
Last edited by abillybob; 3rd June 2014 at 04:39 PM.
Run "gpupdate /force" on a client?
Got the 'Specify intranet Microsoft update service location' section set there too?
also, 2PM - that seems ill advised? [EDIT] - whoops, missed you were just doing a download
Last edited by Domino; 3rd June 2014 at 04:45 PM.
As @Domino mentioned, you need to set the 'Specify intranet Microsoft update service location' to point at your WSUS server. Alongside, the 'Enable client-side targeting' policy can be used to force machines into a specified WSUS group.
That same section of group policy, you want the
Set the intranet update service for detecting updates:
Set the intranet statistics server:
keys set to "http://mywsusserver.mydomain.whatever"
If you're gonna do automatic installs (probably best to be fair, with the rate security patches are happening) you'll want to do them out of hours. Also, I'd suggest ensuring your servers are under another policy...
its nor showing 0 with a number in brackets is it as iirc by default it only shows pcs with issues
Cheers guys I'm at home now sucking on a ginger nut biscuit will have more of a look into it tomorrow and keep you updated thanks again for your help!
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Loved this place! We were in AND out of it all! Outside on Duval all of Key West partied and carried on and we could participate or we could go in our room, close the door and not know anything of the revelry outside. The rooms are stationed behind the cafe so all day long you can smell the fantastic... More
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357 search results for Julia Roberts
Julia Roberts Getting Pelted in the Face is Inspiring
Type: Article | Date: Friday, Aug 1, 2014She's America's sweetheart and now Jimmy Fallon is throwing balls at her face.
Julia Roberts joins Billy Ray's remake of Oscar winner 'The Secret in Their Eyes'
Type: Post | Date: Thursday, Sep 4, 2014Filming begins in October
Julia Roberts vs. Sally Field: Who Curses Best?
Type: Article | Date: Tuesday, May 6, 2014Sally Field and Julia Roberts exchange bad words for a few minutes. Who's the superior curser?
7 Times Julia Roberts was the Funniest Person Alive
Type: Article | Date: Monday, Apr 21, 2014Have you noticed that Julia Roberts is hilarious? Always?
7 Times Julia Roberts was the Funniest Person Alive
Type: Gallery | Date: Monday, Apr 21, 2014What would you do if Billy Bush stuck a microphone in your face? Here's w...
Roundup: Is Matthew McConaughey this year's Julia Roberts?
Type: Post | Date: Tuesday, Feb 18, 2014Also: Daniel Day-Lewis to present at Oscars, and Steve McQueen's UN date
2014 SAG Awards red carpet grades: Julia Roberts, Sandra Bullock
Type: Gallery | Date: Saturday, Jan 18, 2014Julia Roberts, Lupita Nyong'o and Sandra Bullock walk the red carpet at...
2014 Oscar nominee reactions: Leonardo DiCaprio, Julia Roberts, Michael Fassbender
Type: Article | Date: Thursday, Jan 16, 2014Sandra Bullock, Amy Adams, Chiwetol Ejiofor and others reflect on morning
Julia Roberts discusses the 'appealing' intimidation of 'August: Osage County'
Type: Post | Date: Monday, Dec 23, 2013Also, why no one but Tracy Letts could have restructured it for the screen
Julia Roberts not intimidated by 'August: Osage County' role
Type: Video | Date: Wednesday, Dec 4, 2013Julia Roberts sits down with HitFix to discuss the shooting of the ensemble 'August Osage County' and the challenges and pleasures of working with an all-star supporting cast.


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Posts tagged battlefield-3-armored-kill
Battlefield 3: Close Quarters announced for June, two more packs incoming
Battlefield 3: Close Quarters, the first major paid piece of DLC for the game since last December's "Back to Karkand," is coming this June. The expansion includes four maps, 10 weapons and no vehicles -- it's about close quarters, after all. There will be two more expansions for the game following...
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($160) Inky ruby. Spicy red and dark berry aromas are complicated by smoky minerals, anise and fresh rose; smells like a great Barolo. Juicy black raspberry and cherry flavors are impressively deep and pure, taking on weight with air while maintaining focus. This hits every nook and cranny of the palate and betrays no rough edges. Spiciness builds on the finish, which is long, nervy and gently sweet.Author: Josh Raynolds
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The 2006 Pagos Viejos is sourced from Tempranillo vines over 75 years of age and aged for 18 months in new French oak. The wine is inky purple with a sublime nose of pain grille, graphite, black cherry, wild blue fruits, and blackberry. This leads to a dense, plush, remarkably elegant wine which is already exhibiting some complexity. While rich enough to be enjoyed now, it will improve for 5-7 years and be at its best from 2015 to 2030.Drink Dates: 2013-2050
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Expenditure increased cost of recovery after Katrina
Former New Orleans Mayor Ray Nagin's technology outsourcing cost the city an unnecessary $1 million more than if the work had been done in-house, according to a new report from Ed Quatrevaux, the city's inspector general.
The report, issued Aug. 30th, found the city's contract with Telecommunications Development Corp. wasted more than $750,000 in an eight-month period from salaries alone. TDC salaries would have cost the city $960,000 more annually than having city employees do those tasks, Quatrevaux said in the report. The sum is equal to nearly a third of the $2.8 million shortfall the technology office faces this year, according to a story in the New Orleans Times-Picayune.
Read the IG report here.
Additionally, the inspector general noted that the city unnecessarily increased the cost of the Federal Emergency Management Agency reimbursement assistance for Hurricane Katrina by hiring TDC to receive invoices from Integrated Disaster Solutions, a firm hired to work with FEMA for Hurricane Katrina repair payments. TDC billed the city $275,000 while providing no additional services, when New Orleans could have hired IDS directly, Quatrevaux said. New Orleans also incurred an additional unnecessary expense of $52,000 "by shifting administrative workers from a competitively bid contract for non-professional services to the higher priced TDC contract for professional services," he wrote.
The inspector general also found the procurement process of TDC was flawed and did not promote fair competition. "The city passed over a higher ranked proposal and chose TDC despite lower scores for experience and competency and higher proposed hourly rates," Quatrevaux said in the report. "After negotiating a reduction in TDC's proposed hourly rates for the contract, the city increased the rates through a questionable contract amendment."
Moreover, the report concluded, "the contract maximum swelled from $450,000 to more than $5 million, without regard for the impact on the city's budget….The responsible officials did not ensure that adequate funds were available for the contract, jeopardizing the integrity of the city's budget." By the end of May, TDC had billed the city $3.7 million, the report states.
In a formal response, current Mayor Mitch Landrieu's chief administrative officer, Andy Kopplin, said the new administration wasn't involved in hiring TDC and since taking office has overhauled the city's procurement process. Kopplin added that the new administration agreed that the IT department had developed an over-reliance on contractors and as a consequence the administration was working on reducing the use of contractors as well as contractor rates.
In the Times-Picayune article, Landrieu spokesman Ryan Berni said TDC quit handling all recovery-related work June 30. The technology portion of its contract expires Sept. 30, he said.
Nagin paid TDC and other contractors in part with a $200 million state-financed revolving loan intended to jump-start rebuilding projects, according to The Times-Picayune.
New Orleans is not the only government entity to recently experience technology outsourcing issues. Virginia is still fighting massive computer failures that are inhibiting the state's Department of Motor Vehicles and other agencies from carrying out their duties. And like New Orleans, Defense Secretary Robert Gates' announced that part of his plan to reduce Defense Department spending by $100 billion over five years included eliminating thousands of DOD positions and thousands more contractor jobs.
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Make a nomination today
Steve Kelman considers the costs of corruption in Mexico, China, and most developing countries -- and argues that Americans should keep their own government troubles in perspective.
Agency leaders must proactively invest time, energy and resources to shape the future rather than reactively wait for change to happen.
Meet 24 men and women who are driving key changes in federal IT -- and shaping up as the community's likely leaders of tomorrow.
GSA's administrator talks with FCW about short-term hiring, long-term planning and Robert Frost.
Without a future vision and an appetite for risk, reforms lead down a rabbit hole. There is a better way.
VA's top tech official says he is balancing risks while trying to keep the department's online services open for business.
After five years on the job, the founding director of the Office of Government Information Services believes that a deeper understanding and acceptance of FOIA is seeping into the federal government.
The September attack, made public Nov. 10, potentially puts customer and employee personal information at risk, including addresses, Social Security numbers and emails.
The General Services Administration's Matthew Goodrich predicts more agency-driven authorizations and previews a new two-year road map.
Really curious. Visit the NOLA.com website for the Times Picayune article from yesterday 9/1/2010. They have a few more details and make it plain that this was corruption not accident or igmorance.
...But what's going to happen? Will Nagin go to jail, or will this just be an 'oops, our mistake' thing?
Someone was making money on the side somewhere in that arrangement. The abuses are too flagrant for any other explanation. Besides, it's New Orleans the Queen of Government Corruption.
Is it any wonder the city was known for it's corruption prior to Katrina? Maybe they want the title back from Chicago?
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Home » Environmental
Category Archives: Environmental
#Kazakhstan Joins #Antarctic Treaty
A tidewater glacier on the Antarctic coast. Wikicommons.
The Moscow Times.
The world's largest landlocked country, Kazakhstan, has joined the Antarctic Treaty, an international agreement on the southern continent's neutrality, Interfax reported Friday.
The decree by President Nursultan Nazarbayev, available online, provides no reason for the move.
But the Central Asian country has shown an interest in the Antarctic before, with officials even identifying it as a potential source of drinking water for the arid steppe nation.
The ex-Soviet country staged its first expedition to the South Pole in 2011, tasked with bringing back a "sample of clear air," Mir24.tv reported at the time.
Local media also reported in 2012 plans for a Kazakh station in the Antarctic, though online reports have since been deleted.
Nazarbayev gave the order to join the treaty earlier this month, but the move had gone under the public radar until this week.
The Antarctic Treaty, which entered into force in 1961, formed the basis of the modern approach to the Antarctic: that it should be used only for peaceful research and tourism purposes.
Contrary to popular belief, the treaty — which Kazakhstan was the 51st country to ratify — does not explicitly prohibit territorial claims or economic activity in the Antarctic.
Limited economic activity is ongoing in the Antarctic region, most notably in the ocean around the continent, a territory popular with fishermen. Last month, Russia and China blocked an EU-Australian plan to create a marine reserve covering at least one million square kilometers in the eastern Antarctic.
There are currently about 70 research stations on the continent devoted to a range of topics, ranging from the unique subglacial Lake Vostok to the odd recent behavior of seals, who are increasingly attempting to mate with penguins before, in some cases, devouring them.
#Russia: Images of Giant #Sinkhole Linked to #Uralkali Mining Accident
An aerial view shows a sinkhole 3.5 km (2 miles) to the east of Solikamsk-2 mine in Perm region on Nov. 20, 2014. Press service of Uralkali company / Reuters.
Jennifer Monaghan, The Moscow Times.
Photos of a sinkhole that appeared in the Perm region after a mining accident this week have been published online, as local emergency services strive to contain the expansion of a giant crater that is threatening global supplies of the crop nutrient potash.
The sinkhole, which initially measured 20 by 30 meters, appeared after high levels of brine inflow forced the closure of the Solikamsk-2 mine on Tuesday. The mine is operated by Uralkali, the world's largest potash company, whose shares dipped on news of the closure.
Shares in Uralkali have fallen 28 percent since Tuesday amid fears the mining accident could reduce global potash supplies and inflate prices of the nutrient worldwide.
While some fear the mining accident could deal yet another blow to Russia's economy — already under duress due to Western sanctions over the crisis in Ukraine and a struggling ruble — Uralkali's CEO downplayed the fears.
"The accident is not catastrophic for the company's operations or people living in the area," Chief Executive Dmitry Osipov said, Reuters reported Tuesday.
Since its discovery, the sinkhole has stretched from about 30 meters to 40 meters, local news site V Kurse reported Friday, posting images of the hole taken by an emergency services' drone.
The hole is located on the site of an abandoned mine, 3,5 kilometers away from the nearest settlement, the regional emergency services said Wednesday in an online statement.
The site also once housed a cooperative of summer residences, or dachas, which was abandoned in 2005 following concerns that the ground was sinking, V Kurse reported. According to local residents, one of the dachas was swallowed up by the hole, the report said.
Aerial photos of the giant sinkhole taken by the emergency services show the crater surrounded by properties.
The images recall photographs of a giant crater that appeared in the Yamal-Nenets autonomous district in mid-July, before a second hole was discovered several days later.
Scientists later tied the appearance of the hole to a discharge of gas hydrates deep beneath the surface of the Yamal Peninsula, resulting in an underground explosion that formed the crater.
Emergency Ministry researchers are carrying out tests around the sinkhole in Solikamsk to determine whether any gas is being released at the site. Seismic sensors have also been placed near the crater, V Kurse reported.
About 1,300 miners working at the Solikamsk-2 mine have been sent home on two-thirds of their pay until January following the mine's closure, the report said.
It remains to be seen whether the situation at Solikamsk will be as serious as that experienced at Uralkali's Berezniki-1 site, also located in the Perm region, which was closed in 2006 after becoming completely flooded following a brine inflow.
The Solikamsk-2 mine accounts for a fifth of Uralkali's output and 3.5 percent of global capacity.
This article has been corrected to state that about 1,300 miners have been sent home. An earlier version incorrectly put that figure at 3,500.
#Fracking: #Ineos to invest £640m in UK #shale gas exploration
Ineos has made no secret of its interest in shale gas
Chemicals giant Ineos has announced plans to invest up to £640m in shale gas exploration in the UK.
The company plans to use the gas as a raw material for its chemicals plants, including Grangemouth in Stirlingshire.
Grangemouth is currently running at a loss, but Ineos believes shale gas will transform the economics of the plant.
Shale gas extraction is promoted as an important potential energy source, but has sparked opposition from environmental groups.
Exploration rights
Shale gas is extracted through a technique known as fracking, or hydraulic fracturing, in which water and chemicals are pumped into shale rock at high pressure.
Numerous anti-fracking groups have formed and protests have been staged at several sites over fears of earthquakes, water pollution and environmental damage.
Ineos is currently building Europe's largest shale gas import facility to feed its petrochemicals plant at Grangemouth – but it wants to produce home-grown shale gas as well.
In recent months it has been buying up rights to explore across hundreds of square miles of the Midland Valley around the Stirlingshire site.
Ineos is also thought to have applied for further licences as part of the government's ongoing onshore licensing round.
Safety 'skills'
The company outlined plans on Thursday to invest hundreds of millions pounds in UK exploration.
"I believe shale gas could revolutionise UK manufacturing and I know Ineos has the resources to make it happen, the skills to extract the gas safely and the vision to realise that everyone must share in the rewards," said Ineos boss Jim Ratcliffe.
The firm added that "substantial further investment would follow if the company moved to development and production".
BBC industry correspondent John Moylan said the move will be seen as a significant vote of confidence in the sector, and will position Ineos as one of the major players in the emerging industry.
But, he added, it will also put Ineos in the sights of protesters who believe shale gas and fracking are dangerous and harmful to the environment.
A spokesman for Greenpeace UK characterised Ineos' investment as "giant speculative bets on unproven and risky resources".
"It seems that Ineos have based their business plan on breathless PR brochures rather than scientific reports," he added.
Shale gas sites in UK.
'Transparent bribe'
Earlier this year, Ineos announced plans to hand over up to £2.5bn of shale gas revenues to communities close to its wells.
The company has bought the licence for shale gas exploration and development across a 329sq km area around its Grangemouth power plant.
It will give away 6% of revenues to local homeowners and landowners.
However, Friends of the Earth Scotland criticised the move as "a transparent attempt to bribe communities".
The British Geological Survey has estimated there are "modest" shale gas and oil resources in the area.
Fracking is used extensively in the US where it has revolutionised the energy industry.
The Scottish government has called for devolved powers on fracking after the UK government decided to press ahead with plans to let companies drill at depths of 300m below private land without consent.
Analysis: John Moylan, BBC Industries Correspondent
This sounds like a huge investment by Ineos.
But any firm wanting to bring shale gas from the exploration stage through to full production will have to spend hundreds of millions of pounds.
An industry report earlier this year suggested that a single shale gas production site with 10 wells might cost as much as £350m. So firms intending to have multiple gas production sites will have to spend eye-watering sums.
But the timing of this announcement is key. The government is currently assessing applications made by operators for new onshore licences to explore for shale gas.
Firms have to demonstrate that they have the cash and know-how to exploit a license area. If this has been a competitive license round – and there's a suggestion that this is the case – then firms like Ineos will have to lobby hard to ensure they get the areas that they want.
There could be more announcements like this from other industry players in the weeks and months ahead.
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#BioBus: UK's first 'poo' bus goes into service between #Bristol and #Bath
The 40-seat "Bio-Bus" runs on biomethane gas generated through the treatment of sewage and food waste
The UK's first bus powered entirely by human and food waste has gone into service between Bristol and Bath.
The 40-seat "Bio-Bus" runs on biomethane gas generated through the treatment of sewage and food waste.
The eco-friendly vehicle can travel up to 300km (186 miles) on one tank of gas, which takes the annual waste of about five people to produce.
It is run by tour operator Bath Bus Company and will shuttle people between Bristol Airport and Bath city centre.
The biomethane gas is generated at Bristol sewage treatment works in Avonmouth, which is run by GENeco, a subsidiary of Wessex Water.
GENeco general manager Mohammed Saddiq said: "Gas-powered vehicles have an important role to play in improving air quality in UK cities but the Bio-Bus goes further than that and is actually powered by people living in the local area, including quite possibly those on the bus itself."
How do you power a bus with waste?
The bio-bus runs between Bath and Bristol Airport.
- A single passenger's annual food and sewage waste would fuel the Bio-Bus for 37 miles (60km).
- Its combustion engine is similar in design to diesel equivalents in conventional buses.
- Compressed gas is stored in dome-like tanks on the roof of the Bio-Bus
- The gas is generated through anaerobic digestion – where oxygen starved bacteria breaks down biodegradable material to produce methane-rich biogas.
- To power a vehicle, the biogas undergoes "upgrading", where carbon dioxide is removed and propane added.
- Impurities are removed to produce virtually odour free emissions.
- Compared to conventional diesel vehicles, up to 30% less carbon dioxide is emitted.
Green capital
The service from the airport to Bath carries about 10,000 passengers each month.
Bath Bus Company's Collin Field, said: "With so much attention being directed towards improving air quality generally, the public reaction to the appearance of this bus on a service between a world heritage city and an airport will further focus on the potential for this particular fuel."
He said the bus was being launched at a very "appropriate" time, as Bristol is to become the European Green Capital next year.
Bristol sewage treatment works processes around 75 million cubic metres of sewage waste and 35,000 tonnes of food waste each year.
A total of 17 million cubic metres of biomethane, enough to power 8,300 homes, is generated annually at the plant through a process known as anaerobic digestion.
#Shale gas unlikely to make the #UK energy self-sufficient, says report
Fracking's potential has been 'overhyped' by politicians and shale gas will not reduce energy prices or reliance on gas imports, says UK Energy Research Centre.
The fracking site at Barton Moss, Greater Manchester. "Any talk of shale gas making the UK self-sufficient again … is far-fetched," says the UKERC report. Photograph: Peter Byrne/PA
Adam Vaughan for The Guardian.
Politicians have overhyped fracking's potential and the prospect of shale gas making Britain self-sufficient in gas again is far-fetched, according to government-funded researchers.
The UK became a net importer for gas in 2004 as North Sea production declined, and the coalition has heavily promoted shale gas on the grounds of energy security and economic growth. David Cameron says the UK is "going out all for shale" and on Wednesday the government announced the first 'national shale gas colleges'.
But a new report by academics at the Imperial College-based UK Energy Research Centre (UKERC) says significant shale gas production in the UK is unlikely to get underway until next decade and will not reproduce the American 'shale revolution' that has put the US on course to energy self-sufficiency.
Jim Watson, an author of the report and professor of energy policy at the University of Sussex, said that industry and politicians had "overhyped" the impact shale will have on prices and energy security.
"Looking at the evidence base, it's very hard to support some of the statements made both by industry and some politicians that it's going to bring down prices, strengthen energy security or create jobs through cheaper energy any time soon. It may have an impact. But a lot depends on how fast shale develops," he said.
The authors are unambiguous that shale gas will not reduce energy prices or reduce the UK's reliance on gas imports, which are mostly supplied by Norway and Qatar today.
"Any talk of shale gas making the UK self-sufficient again, let alone allowing significant exports, is far-fetched," says the report, The UK's Global Gas Challenge. It also cautioned against "a blind belief that a future UK shale gas revolution will solve all our problems".
A second report by UKERC warns that by 2025, the time any such shale gas industry is up and running in the UK, global gas consumption must have peaked and begin rapidly tailing off to avoid dangerous levels of global warming.
With the development of widespread technology to capture and store the carbon emissions from those gas plants, that deadline moves back to 2035.
But carbon capture and storage (CCS) technology is so far largely unproven at scale and the world's first major CCS power plant only switched on last month. UKERC's report says "whether CCS will actually be commercialised or not is currently far from certain", though Watson says recent developments in North America mean he is more optimistic than two years ago.
The report, A Bridge to a Low-Carbon Future? Modelling the Long-Term Global Potential of Natural Gas, suggests gas's role as a quick fix to cut carbon emissions – gas emits significantly less CO2 than coal when burned – could be short-lived.
Gas has been hailed by some advocates as a 'bridge' or 'transition' fuel as economies move to renewable energy and nuclear power to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and tackle climate change.
If CCS doesn't take off, to keep temperature rises under 2C as governments have agreed to do, the report's modelling showed "gas consumption peaked in 2025 and declined terminally thereafter: the role that gas can play as a transition fuel was thus substantially reduced".
However, despite the short window of opportunity, the authors say the amount of coal that could be displaced by gas is significant in terms of cutting emissions.
Dr Christophe McGlade of UCL, who led the modelling work, said: "Gas could play an important role in tackling climate change over the next 10 to 20 years."
Watson added: "In those countries which a have a lot of coal in their energy systems, China being the prime example, gas has a role to play with or without CCS." He said ensuring gas consumption peaked and declined rapidly in 2025 or 2035 would "require significant policy intervention" from governments.
Separately on Tuesday, the Department of Energy and Climate Change announced the creation of the UK's first specialist colleges for training people for the shale gas industry. Headquartered in Blackpool, the National College for Onshore Oil and Gas National College will be linked to colleges in Chester, Redcar and Cleveland, Glasgow and Portsmouth.
Matthew Hancock, the new Tory energy minister, said: "Families, villages and towns across the UK could benefit from this new industry and its supply chain which could create 64,500 jobs. That's why we are investing in the people behind project. Only by arming people with the skills they need to be shale specialists can we provide career opportunities for thousands of young people, boost the power and competitiveness of our firms and help the UK economy remain strong and competitive.
"To make a world-class cluster of expertise in the North West of England, just as Aberdeen is a world class cluster of expertise for offshore oil and gas."
Helen Rimmer, Friends of the Earth north west campaigner said in response: "The north west deserves investment in jobs and skills, but this should be in energy sectors of the future such as tidal, wave and solar which the region has in abundance – not dead-end fossil fuels."
Gas consumption in the UK has already peaked, and development of UK shale gas has been slower than expected. Hydraulic fracturing to extract shale gas will not resume until 2015, the first exploratory fracking in the country since 2011.