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With Winter turning to Spring (yes the daffoldils are up!) why not try something a little different this April? Mud running is the latest, greatest, phenomenon to rock the fitness world and we are delighted to once again play hosts to the muddiest, most amusing, mud run with obstacles in Essex - Mucky Madness. With a choice of distances to tempt both first-timers and experienced runners this countryside cross country boasts a great and varied course as well as about the best spectator viewing you will get.
Sign up now to secure your place and get Mucky this April and get 15% off with the Discount Code SPAINSFRIENDS15.
Venison is a rich and delicious meat loved by chefs for its flavour and texture. Whether you want to impress at a dinner party or simply have a change from the usual beef, chicken, or pork, organic venison is a great menu choice.
Here's why you should choose locally produced venison, and where to find it.
Why should I eat venison?
Venison is a great tasting meat, with a slightly finer grain than beef. It is just as versatile and comes with a bold flavour. It's highly flexible fare, with a similar taste to beef if used one way, or a delicious distinctive flavour if cooked with ingredients which enhance its natural taste. It can be fried, roasted, stewed, and is excellent when made into sausages.
On top of the good it can do your taste buds, organic venison can also do wonders for your body. It is richer in iron than beef, which keep your energy levels high and helps to prevent anaemia, while having more protein than any other red meat, so you stay fuller for longer. It's packed with vitamins B2 and B3, which keep your metabolism working as it should, as well as vitamins B6 and B12 which could help to lower the risk of heart attack or stroke by preventing the build-up of homocysteine in the blood.
Wild deer often have concentrated levels of conjugated linoleic acid in their fat reserves, which is believed to help protect you against cancer and heart disease. Venison is a lean meat, so you won't find it tough or packed with fat.
How to cook venison
You want to make sure you've bought high-quality venison that has been properly butchered to ensure you have a fresh cut of meat that has been aged for just the right amount of time to achieve the perfect flavour. Trim off any remaining fat and connective tissue, as unlike beef this won't add to the flavour. If you are searing or frying venison quickly, you can do so without adding any extra fat. If you intend to cook it slowly, you will want to add some additional fat in order to keep the meat moist.
Where can I buy locally produced venison?
You can buy beautiful, high-quality venison from Spains Hall, sourced from our estate which encompasses a working farmland and lovingly maintained woodland. Our venison is available to buy minced or diced, or as fillet steaks or haunch steaks. We also have larger joints of venison which are perfect for roasting.
High-quality venison for sale
Are you looking for something a little bit different for your dinner table? Want to impress your guests or simply treat yourself to a new experience or an old favourite? Click here to buy fantastic quality organic venison from Spains Hall.
The beautiful estate surrounding Spains Hall demands to be explored. It would be a shame if such wonderful countryside was left undiscovered. From the woodlands to the working farmland, our estate offers fantastic views and off-road tracks to ride.
There is plenty on offer for riders when they come to Spains Hall.
Confident riding in a safe, off-road environment
Our estate provides a safe haven for horses and their riders. Secluded, off-road tracks keep you away from busy roads and areas. This gives you a more natural riding experience, where horses can feel calm. You won't have to worry about your mount being spooked in such tranquil surroundings.
Great value for money
Annual subscriptions for horse riding on our estate start at just £120 for a single adult. This provides great value for money once you consider the variety of terrain you will get to explore across 12 miles of off-road track. Two adults together can get a subscription for £180, saving you £60 on the cost of riding individually. With extra discounts for more members, you can see how riding at Spains Hall quickly becomes an affordable way for two or more keen riders to indulge their hobby.
Never get tired of the views
The landscape surrounding Spains Hall is a joy to ride through. With terrain encompassing woodlands and working farmland, each ride takes you through a rural scene good enough to feature on a postcard. You'll love the chance to get away from it all, spend some time with your trusty mount, and enjoy the beautiful fresh air. What better way to escape and unwind after a busy week at work?
Barn to rent - available immediately. £400 pcm.
2920 sq ft (270.28 sqm) single storey.
Nothing helps to dissipate the stresses and strains of a busy week better than a few hours fishing. The sounds of nature all around you, the gentle ripples on the water, the building excitement as your bait attracts attention. Whether you are looking to get away from all the demands and responsibilities of modern life, or just wanting a bit of peace and quiet to yourself, coarse fishing offers the perfect balance of relaxation and excitement.
Fish right in the centre of the beautiful Spains Hall Estate
The Spains Hall Estate is equipped with a range of facilities that offer discerning visitors the chance to get away from their hectic lives and enjoy something truly beautiful and tranquil. With 11 miles of public footpath, passing through 1800 acres of working farmland and 150 acres of carefully managed woodland, the estate offers a superb opportunity to connect with nature and experience of life's simple pleasures.
It is hardly surprising that in this landscape you will find a series of beautifully maintained and well-stocked carp ponds. Fishing enthusiasts both professional and amateur, casual and dedicated, come to fish at Spains Hall for the quality of its stock and the beauty of its location.
Our coarse fishery
You will find our coarse fishery located right in the heart of the gardens. Depending upon which side you choose to set up, you can enjoy stunning views up the lawns to Spains Hall, or vistas of tree-lined banks, allowing you to truly feel that you are in the middle of nowhere. Our fishponds are stocked with both common and mirror carp, ranging in size up to 20lb, so there is every opportunity to land some truly impressive fish. Whether you come for the relaxation, or are serious about catching some real beauties, Spains Hall's coarse fishery is the perfect place to come.
Day passes or annual subscriptions available
Our fishery can be used for one-off fishing trips or on a more permanent basis, depending upon how much time you have to commit. A day ticket for an adult with a maximum of two rods is just £8.50, or £6 for a child over 16. Children must be accompanied by an adult, and if you want to fish together, you can enjoy a saver ticket for just £12 for the both of you (for children up to 16 years old).
If you plan to frequent us regularly you can buy an annual subscription for £150, or a combined adult and child subscription for £200. Know someone who would love to spend some quality time fishing a beautiful lake? Get in touch and ask us about gift tickets.
For more information, get in touch with us today.
Garden & Estate Labourer Wanted
Part-time casual labourer wanted to support gardening, estate maintenance and events team at Spains Hall, Finchingfield. This is a short-term position to cover a period of absence of one of our regular staff members.
Duties will include grass cutting, general repairs & maintenance tasks, painting, setting up the events venue and any other tasks as required. Experience of general garden or estate work plus an ability to lift and carry would be an advantage but the main thing is that you are keen to work and able to be flexible with your hours!
The position is for 16-20 hours per week for a fixed period to cover a planned staff absence. The work is mainly during the week but there may be occasional weekend shifts following events.
Rate of pay is £8.50 per hour. Interested?
Call 01371 811596 or firstname.lastname@example.com
Cleaner Wanted - Spains Hall
Part-time cleaner required at Sp[ains Hall on a no hours contract to help look after our three luxury cottages and help reset the wedding venue after an event or wedding.
Previous experience isn't essential. although helpful, but if you have a good work ethic, strong attention to detail and like to see things "just so" we can train you to do the rest!
Hours will vary as it depends when we receive bookings for weddings and holiday accommodation, but in general you will have some warning when a clean is required. The post does require regular weekend working, usually in the morning, and would suit someone with a good level of fitness!
The position pays £8.50 / hour.
If you are interested please contact us either by email - firstname.lastname@example.com or ring 01371 811596.
Corporate events are a highlight of the business calendar. They can attract new business, create knowledge sharing opportunities, build your reputation, and generate press coverage. They also require a lot of organising, with every aspect of the event working to create a beneficial and valuable experience for delegates.
There are speakers to organise, guest lists to create, workshops to plan, exhibitors to book, marketing campaigns to draft and execute, and much more. Before you can start any of that, however, you need to decide upon a venue. There is plenty of choice available to you, so here are four reasons a stately home can offer you much more than other types of venue.
Impress your guests
The location plays an important role in setting the tone of your event. A stately home provides a dignified setting that lends an air of sophistication. The decor and surroundings lend a suitable background to a company that's out to build its reputation and demonstrate its brand values.
Remember that the first impression of the event for your delegates will be when they arrive at the venue. A corporate events location such as Spains Hall, won't disappoint. They will be able to relax and enjoy themselves, putting them in a good mood: perfect if you aim to generate new business or network.
Quality of service
The staff at stately homes are used to providing top quality service to their guests. Choosing these types of venue ensures you will get the expertise and professionalism of service to keep your delegates happy, and your corporate events running smoothly. The last thing you want is for poor facilities and personnel to overshadow your event, and if it is held in a stately home, that is the last thing that will happen.
Stand out from the crowd
At certain times of year, conference delegates have a lot of corporate events to choose from. Your event could clash with others, and you need something to help differentiate your event. An unusual location like a stately home stands out amongst the inner city conference venues, many of which look the same.
Make the most of the space to provide variety
There are a lot of things you can't do as a guest at a regular corporate events venue in the city. You can't explore several acres of grounds and farmland, take part in woodland walks or coarse fishery, for instance. Stately homes usually offer plenty of outdoor space, which can be used to provide a range of team-building and ice-breaking activities to add an extra level of entertainment and value to your event.
Put on the corporate event that everyone wants to attend
With a stately home as your conference venue you'll be receiving an unparalleled level of service, a location that attracts high attendance figures, and an experience that establishes your brand as a major player in your industry.
Get in touch today to find out more.
With its listed buildings, expansive grounds, and historic features, Spains Hall is a striking and grandiose building. The space and sheer choice of locations make it the perfect venue for all kinds of filming, and the estate is more than equipped to meet the needs of filmmakers. Spains Hall and the surrounding landscape provides many impressive backdrops, both for interior and exterior filming, and the sheer variety of the location allows you to capture many different visuals and atmospheres within a relatively small geographical area.
Interviews, documentaries, reality television and dramas – Spains Hall is perfectly suited to all kinds of filming. Shows filmed here have included the series five finale of The Only Way Is Essex, the Antiques Roadshow, and the BBC's build up coverage for the 2014 Tour De France. We take a look at some of the locations both inside the house and on the estate that can be used to create impressive imagery and unbeatable ambience for any shoot.
The Woodlands
Our woods are carefully managed to ensure a healthy and sustainable environment. We manage the canopy to ensure that ample light reaches the forest floor, meaning that all plants and trees prosper. This gives you a verdant and expansive location, full of colour in spring, summer, and autumn, and packed with drama in the winter. It is a wonderful section of our estate, often frequented by walkers, who enjoy the paths, the lakes and streams, and the abundant woodland creatures that call this place their home.
Elizabethan House
While a house has been on the site of Spains Hall for ten centuries, the current manor dates back to the early 15th century. At the time of the Domesday Book (1086), the manor was held by Hervey de Ispania, which is where Spains Hall gets its name. The manor has been owned by knights and clothiers alike, with Spains Hall having been the property of the current family since Samuel Ruggles purchased it in 1760. The interior of the home provides many grand and historical rooms, complete with tapestries, family portraits, oak panelled walls and four poster beds.
Spains Hall offers extensive use of parts of its grounds for sports fisherman and horse riders, making it the ideal location for sports related documentaries, nature features, and establishing shots. There are 12 miles of farm track for riding, taking you through our working farmland, while our coarse fishery is fully stocked with common and mirror carp, reaching up to 20lb. The lake itself is a stunning location, surrounded by woodland, making it a tranquil and dynamic setting.
You'll find all the space and equipment you need here at Spains Hall to make filming simple and convenient. We have ample space for you to set up a production office and can provide phase 3 power. For long shoots, catering can easily be arranged for the cast and crew to ensure everything runs smoothly and all your needs are met.
Sadly we've had to cancel our open day on Sunday 22nd February 2015.
HOWEVER WE ARE ABLE TO BOOK INDIVIDUAL SHOWROUNDS FOR THE DAY. Please contact us to book an appointment.
Spains Hall is a gorgeous venue to host your big day. The Hall itself dates back to around 1410 in the oldest parts and has always been a family home. On your wedding day you can get married in the grand Elizabethan Hall, or outside in the stunning walled rose gardens, having spent the morning getting ready in the Tapestry Room Bridal Suite. After the ceremony you can enjoy a drinks reception, with canapes, within the public rooms of the Hall and the surrounding gardens with its beautiful lakeside backdrop available for yourselves and your guests to explore, as well as plenty of scope for those all important photos! It's a lovely relaxed way to start your celebrations.
In the afternoon you make your way across to the 18th century stable block which has been lavishly converted into a top quality reception venue complete with under-floor heating for those winter weddings and integrated air conditioning for the summer months!
Your 3 course wedding breakfast, a menu of your choosing, is cooked fresh on-site and served by our catering partners, restauranteurs The Cambridge Dining Company. Once everyone can eat no more the speeches begin with glasses of bubbly provided to toast the happy occasion.
After a quick turn-around while people stretch their legs on the terrace the main hall is transformed with plenty of space to dance, a DJ or band of your choosing sets up to play, the lights are dimmed and your evening guests arrive. Then the cake is cut, the first dance of the evening gets under way and once the tears of on-lookers have been wiped away it's time to get in the spirit drag your partner to the dance floor and have a good time! Later on the evening food comes out, with many choices from simple bacon rolls through to full evening BBQ's there's plenty to keep those energy levels up and those dancing shoes kicking.
At the end of the night, once the goodbye's have been said, the Bride & Groom can retire to our tranquil, intimate North Lodge for their wedding night, safe in the knowledge that in the middle of this 2,000 acre estate nothing will disturb them apart from the occasional passing Deer or Hedgehog!
Sound too good to be true, why not book to come and see us and find out for yourself!
For some occasions an ordinary party just won't do. You need something special, something unique. Some occasions are important and deserve to be remembered for a long time. A truly outstanding venue makes a truly outstanding party. If it's out of the ordinary people won't forget it quickly and it can even become one of the most memorable parts of the night. A good venue is about more than just space – it's about service and atmosphere too.
From christenings to wedding anniversaries, Spain's Hall has a range of options to add the 'special' to your special occasion.
The Stables
Of all the buildings on our estate, the stables is the one that has undergone the most change. It was once two separate buildings: an 18th century Dovecote and a 19th century Coach House. These two buildings have been renovated and extended to create the characterful and atmospheric Stables complex. We've kept and embellished the original features as a reminder of the historic significance of the buildings, and also to add character and charm to the space.
With underfloor heating and air conditioning, WiFi, audio-visual presentation facilities and a PA system, The Stables is perfectly set up to provide a characterful venue for any party. Having music and internet makes it perfect for engagement parties, graduation celebrations, and any other reason you can think of to unwind and have a great time. From the Main Hall to the Terrace with views across the grounds to Spain's Hall, the stables is the perfect venue for parties.
Spain's Hall
The house itself offers several rooms that can be booked for parties ranging from large-scale gatherings to small intimate get-togethers. The Elizabethan Hall is perhaps the most impressive setting for any gathering – grand and filled with light. The drawing room, beautifully panelled, is a cosy and intimate room with direct access to the gardens, giving you plenty of chance to make the most of fine weather. It is a wonderful place for family gatherings and smaller celebrations. If you are having a more formal get-together, such as an anniversary dinner or business meal, the Georgian dining room is perfect. Parties and events booked for here also give you access to the smooth lawns and beautiful gardens outside.
For all events we offer the finest catering services. You can choose from a wide range of menus, and we can also offer a full bar service.
Whatever you want to celebrate, celebrate it right
There are so many events in life worth celebrating, and if it's worth celebrating, it's worth getting right. The right venue can transform a nice night into an unforgettable event. Do something memorable and magical with your next celebration. Whether you want something large and loud, or quiet and intimate, Spain's Hall has the locations, the space, and the staff to give you a wonderful and sophisticated time that neither you nor your guests will be able to forget.
Read more on our events pages, or get in touch to book your event today.
As the nights begin to draw in the fire is lit and we all start to think about Christmas as another seasonal treat comes calling. Each year we cull a number of wild deer that live on the wider estate in order to preserve the balance of nature and protect some of the other important flora and fauna we are lucky enough to provide homes for at Spains.
This is done sensitively so that we maintain a balanced population in terms of age and species (we have three of the six UK deer species; Roe, Fallow and Muntjac). November sees the start of the Fallow doe (female) open season and, as these are the most common deer on the Estate, it is also the time of year when we have most access to that most delicious of wild foods – venison! You can hardly move these days with TV chefs proclaiming the health and taste benefits of venison, some even highlighting how much better the wild stuff is than farmed; Radio 4 has cottoned on with a series on Farming Today about the subject.
We have always sought to ensure that everything we cull ends up being eaten but this year we are trying something new. In addition to supplying our usual game dealers, who then ship the venison around the country to posh hotels and to our continental cousins we are selling some locally. Steak night in Finchingfield has taken on a whole new dimension with our neighbours eating their own little taste of Spains, perhaps with a good glass of red in front of that fire.
If you are local and would like to try some for yourself drop us a line!
Every bride and groom-to-be wants to experience the height of luxury on their wedding day. But what does that actually mean? There are many wedding venues that refer to themselves as luxury. So how do you know what to expect? After all, luxury is about more than just a label.
Read on for a few things you should expect to get from a luxury venue.
Obviously you can't have a luxury wedding venue without a stunning building. You want somewhere grand, sophisticated and timeless. It's got to be somewhere that wows you, even after the third or fourth visit, the kind of place that stands out, and provides the perfect setting for the haul of great memories you'll be making on the day.
Wedding planner
You are going to be spending a lot of time with the venue's wedding planner. You'll be telling them your hopes, your tastes, the way you dreamed your wedding would be as a child. You'll be expressing your personality, and will want them to understand. A luxury venue where the wedding planner doesn't do everything they can to make you feel special is no luxury at all. If the splendour of a venue is matched by the enthusiasm and empathy of your wedding planner, you'll have the treatment you deserve, from the initial meeting to your wedding day.
What's luxury without fine dining? Just as the venue is a sight to behold and the ceremony sets alight your emotions, the meals on your special day should be a revelation to your taste buds. You and your guests should be treated to the finest quality ingredients, lovingly prepared and cooked to perfection. After all, good tastes are a sign of good taste.
Luxury is having everyone at the venue working to give you the best time you can possibly have. It's not just the wedding planner who should be dedicated to giving you a great time. If each member of staff is friendly, warm, and caring, it makes you and your guests feel special. Any luxury wedding venue should have personable and caring people on hand to cater to your every need.
It's true that your wedding is all about you, although you want your guests to have a fantastic time too. Guest's enjoying your ceremony is important to you in making your day special. You want them to be looked after with the same care and consideration your venue shows for you. Luxury should be shared around.
At the end of the day, luxury isn't about compromise. Every aspect of your day should be perfect. That's what a luxury venue guarantees you. From the ceremony to the dance, your wedding day needs to sparkle. That's what you get from a luxury wedding venue – a location with gravitas, a truly romantic atmosphere, a wedding planner who does everything they can to make your day truly memorable, and a wonderful experience for all involved.
Your choice of venue will likely define the tone of your entire wedding. For some couples nothing will come between them and their dream venue. For others, having their ceremony locally means a lot to them.
So what should you do if your dream wedding venue is far away? We look at the pros and cons of travelling for your dream wedding.
Your guests
For most people a wedding just isn't right without everyone who matters to them being present. So while the idea of running away to get married somewhere exotic and glamorous may appeal at first, you need to consider how your guests will get there. Can they all make it?
On the other hand, many of them will be travelling anyway, so would it really make a difference to them?
A lot of your guests may book accommodation for your ceremony anyway, so venue location won't matter. If they weren't planning on driving there and back in a day, there won't be a problem.
However, it might not be appropriate to ask your guests to pay a lot of money to stay somewhere because you wanted to get married in a faraway location. Might they expect you to pay for accommodation?
How does your choice of venue affect the timings of your day? A lot of your guests could be planning to travel to the venue on the day of the ceremony, so will they have enough time to get there? What if the traffic holds them up? And if you want to get married in the venue a long distance away, are you going to have the reception nearby, or will everyone have to travel back for the evening?
There's always the possibility of having a small family ceremony and then a big party back home the next day, or the following weekend, though.
Very few people are lucky enough to be able to forget entirely about how much things cost and focus instead on planning their dream wedding. The practicalities need to be taken into account. A far away venue might not only be better, but also cheaper, if it is in a less expensive area. Although once you've added on the additional travel and accommodation costs, have you actually made a saving?
Less stress = a better day for you
Wedding planning can be difficult and time-consuming, and the last thing you want to do is increase the stress. You of course deserve the perfect wedding, but part of that is being free to get excited in the run-up to the main event. If you find yourself drowning in admin, you could spend too much of your time worrying about whether the day is running to schedule and if everybody else is being taken care of. So don't forget that happiness comes not just from location, and excitement, but from being able to relax and focus entirely on the experience.
Even in the relatively short time I've been around things around Spains haven't stood still for long. When you consider that the R-B family have lived here for over 250 years my meagre 34 years is just a drop in the ocean. That said since I can remember I've seen buildings come down, buildings go up, people come and go, machinery evolve (clearly my preoccupation as a small child was tractors, something shared by my sons amazingly) and the day-to-day life constantly change.
In refreshing my memory of the history for a house tour recently I got completely side-tracked by a collection of old photos. Some of you may have seen the recent Country Life article on Spains Hall which contained some of the best pictures I've seen of the house and gardens. However, in this collection of old photos was one of the men mowing the grass in front of Spains, using a donkey! The donkey has long since been retired and we thought it'd be fun to stage the photo again:
A bit more horsepower but we still have to cut the grass!
Some things do change, but probably not as much as we think!
Last month we renewed our link to international sport by providing the raw material for the Indian Premier League and Ashes. Ok, so it'll take a while to get there but some of the Cricket Bat Willows recently harvested from the estate may, via the experts at J.S.Wright & Sons Ltd (http://www.cricketbatwillow.com/), eventually find their way into the hands of superstars of the cricketing world. After felling the mature trees will be taken a few miles to Great Leighs, cross cut into 28 inch lengths, graded and transformed into the 'blades' that are the supplied to expert bat makers. Replanting of felled or damaged trees is done regularly with the young sets supplied by Wrights. It's then up to us to nurture them as they grow, protecting them as best we can from squirrels and deer, who are obviously not cricket fans!
It's probably one of the longest working relationships we have at Spains, starting at least 80 years ago and continuing to the present day. Growing Cricket Bat Willows is an unusual and interesting facet of the Estate and we are very lucky to be so close to the biggest English Willow merchants in the world.
AR-B August 2014
Weddings take a lot of planning, so it's vital to look ahead. A traditional wedding is great for many, but what if you want to be at the cutting edge of wedding trends? If you want a super-fashionable wedding, you need to start planning now.
To make it easy to plan your big day, we take a quick look at some of the trends forecast for 2015.
The dress
Just what every bride-to-be needs: more styles of dress to try and choose from! 2015 will feature a big range of exciting new styles. From simple and elegant to bold and adventurous, you're bound to find something you'll love, and it might even surprise you.
Being revealing is one of the hottest new trends for 2015. From bare backs and plunging necklines to showcasing midriffs, the adventurous bride can find a dress that perfectly accentuates her curves and skin while still retaining an air of class and sophistication.
If you want to be bold without being bare, you can opt for nude lace, metallic, or retro looks. Wearing a lace dress over a soft cashmere slip gives a seductive yet elegant look, while metallic dresses instantly help you stand out from the crowd of white dresses.
Bad news shabby chic fans – your time is over! The trend for 2014-15 is for luxury and art deco. Beautifully presented sit down meals are going to come into favour, with each and every guest looked after as well as possible. Smaller weddings, focussing on intimate atmosphere, mean you can afford more quality catering to treat everyone to a scrumptious meal. Seasonal English ingredients and traditional dishes will make a comeback, and champagne replaces Prosecco as the toast drink of choice. The evening buffet will give way to food passed among guests in order to keep the evening flowing smoothly - and allow more, essential, time on the dance floor.
The dress, the food, the flowers, the décor; all of those things can change with the latest fashions, but one thing always stays the same. Every bride dreams of getting married in a beautiful location, one that adds to the romance and magic of their big day. When it comes to venue, it is more about personal tastes than fashions, and for many brides you simply can't beat the traditional country house. Grand, spectacular & historical - they add the perfect sense of wonder and permanence to any wedding.
Spains Hall provides you with a huge degree of flexibility. You can have your ceremony in a number of different locations, including the main hall, smaller intimate rooms, or outside in the garden overlooking the luscious estate. Wherever in the grounds you choose to have your wedding, you can be sure of several things – that you will have a magical day in a fantastic setting. You will be diligently looked after for the duration of your day in order to ensure you have a perfect, flawless wedding.
Book a viewing at Spains Hall today!
When people think of Spains Hall, they most likely think of the building itself. Tall and lustrous in colour, Spains Hall makes a mark on the local landscape, standing out yet perfectly fitting in. The estate has been managed carefully to ensure the hall has all you would expect from such a beautiful ancestral home.
It is away from the hall itself that we want to turn our attention today. Exploring the estate, and the countryside beyond it, can make up a large part of your stay. The variety of the landscape, and sheer expanse of beautiful surroundings, means that you could have an exciting and memorable time here without ever needing to leave the locale.
We take a look at some of the landscapes and features surrounding Spains Hall, and just why they are so worth exploring.
Throughout the history of Spains Hall, the owners have worked to adapt its function in line with modern demands. This has allowed it to continue to survive and thrive through the decades. The farmland on the estate is one of the key parts of this, with 1800 working acres. Farmland, with its wide, rolling fields provides the perfect English landscape. The relative flatness of the landscape allows you to see for miles, and it is wonderful to see up close the way that man interacts with nature.
The woodland around Spains Hall is extensively managed to ensure that it is as healthy as possible. With the price of importing timber from abroad so low, many woodlands in Britain have been left to their own devices as it is no longer profitable to maintain them. This may sound idyllic, but a woodland that isn't managed becomes a very competitive place. All plants need light, but we all know that nature is not about sharing. Without carefully controlling the canopies, the biggest trees would block out all the light for the plants below. By caring for our woodland, we ensure that all types of plants are allowed to grow. This ensures we have wonderfully varied and natural English woodland.
Walks from Finchingfield
Spains Hall is located near the picturesque village of Finchingfield. The village is small and quaint, with plenty of greenery, and is the perfect place to set off from on an array of countryside walks. There are many routes to choose from, varying in length from a leisurely stroll to a hike of many miles. It doesn't take long after setting off before you are deep in the midst of the Essex countryside, walking through meadows and valleys, crossing streams, and traversing fields.
Holiday cottages in Essex at Spains Hall
Our words will never do the sights of Essex justice. The only way to truly experience them is to come and visit for yourself. Look at our holiday cottages today and start planning your Essex adventure.
When you've lived somewhere all your life you can be fooled into thinking you know pretty much all there is to know about it. Well, that's what I thought until I was lucky enough to hitch a lift to fly over Spains Hall. It's amazing how different things are from the air. I've been up on the roof of Spains Hall occasionally, though mostly wobbling along the rainwater gullies feeling terribly brave (whilst actually wondering if the lead will hold me or if I'd end up in one of the bedrooms in a rather unconventional manner!)
To see it for yourself is something else. I found myself drawn to the vision of those who set out the garden (without the aid of a view from above!) and just how perfect it looks from the air. The Estate was also a revelation, with large blocks of woodland linked by ribbons of hedge and punctuated by fields of different colour crops. What struck me particularly though was the way the house and gardens nestle into the landscape. They look like they just belong.
Of course that's what Humphrey and his son Ady Repton would have wanted I'm sure as they drew out their ambitious plans and watercolours for the house and grounds in the 19th Century (sadly never fully realised due to lack of funds but you can see the originals in the house), but as someone who is keen on the way we relate to our natural surroundings it's gratifying to see that our home seems manage it so well. Admittedly, it's had some practice having been on the site since 1410 in one form or another!
The opportunity to compare from the air the velum 1618 Pope map and today's Estate was one I shall never forget. If I ever want a benchmark as to how the Estate has changed it's to that map that I turn. Pleasingly the amount of woodland has shrunk ever so little, and what's clear from the air is that Great Howe – our treasured semi-natural ancient woodland – is still one of the largest stands in the area.
As we flew south over Essex, Kent and into Sussex to Goodwood (that's another story…) I couldn't help but contrast this with some of the more stark additions to our landscape, and be reassured that some buildings can enhance the natural world, thankfully Spains seems to be one!
To take a short break in the Essex countryside is to relax and unwind in the most peaceful of surroundings. Our largely rural county is peppered with delightful market towns and some amazing landscapes. Essex is a very serene place, and has plenty to offer in terms of exploration, places to visit, and holiday cottages to stay in.
Essex is the perfect destination for a relaxing weekend away, or a short break to recharge your batteries. The serenity of the surrounding landscape works perfectly to help you forget the stresses and strains of daily working life. After a busy week in the city, Essex is a veritable paradise of quiet, tranquillity, and nature.
Spains Hall
A lot of holiday cottages are a stopping off point between your home and the adventures of a short break. They give you somewhere comfortable to stay, from which you can get out and explore the local area. The cottages located on our Estate, however, get you right into the middle of some beautiful countryside and activities, meaning you can have a great holiday without having to travel very far from your holiday property at all.
11 miles of public footpath
The Estate itself is expansive, with 1800 acres of working farmland. We also have 150 acres of managed woodland that is carefully looked after to ensure the best possible ecosystem. All this is worth exploring, and a gentle walk through beautiful scenery offers the perfect opportunity to clear your mind after a busy week, and there's nothing quite as serene as a stroll through our woodland.
Coarse Fishing
If fishing is a passion of yours, then you will love our coarse fishery. We have two historic lakes for you to choose from, dating back to the 17th century. Our main lake is stocked with Common and Mirror Carp, ranging in size up to 20lb. We have also recently stocked the second lake with Tench. These offer the perfect chance for a quiet escape, some time alone with your thoughts, and to sit calmly and enjoy the wonderful surroundings. You can book tickets and read the rules for our coarse fishery here.
Holiday cottages on the Estate
You get everything you need for a serene and enjoyable short break with Spains Hall. We have three beautifully renovated self-catering holiday cottages on the Estate, situated on their own to ensure the quietest and most peaceful atmosphere you can imagine. You'll only have nature to listen to, and we cannot think of a better sound to accompany your short break than that.
Once you have your accommodation sorted out, you can explore the public footpaths or fish in the lakes. If you manage to see everything the Estate has to offer, one of Essex's most beautiful villages, Finchingfield is located close nearby.
Take a look at our three fantastic holiday cottages.
Due to late cancelations we have not one but two Saturday August date's available in 2014!
Ring us today on 01371 811596 or email email@example.com to come, have a look around and see if we can make your dream day come true!
Our last Mucky Races cross-country event was a huge success so, we're doing it again!
Taking part is pure "mudtastic" fun but don't just take our word for it, check out what everyone else has been saying on Facebook! https://www.facebook.com/spainshallestate.
We can't wait to see so many people at Spains to pit themselves against such a challenging course and we are hugely grateful to Mucky Races for putting the event on!
Check out the taster video made by Red Carpet Video...
Mucky Races - The Gauntlet from Red Carpet Video on Vimeo.
We are delighted to have received a 5 out of 5 score for our most recent food hygiene assessment, another perfect result for us and for our clients! Check out the rating on the Food Standards Agency Website.
ARBORETUM DAY AT SPAINS HALL FINCHINGFIELD – SUNDAY 11 March
See the article in the Dunmow Broadcast here. Photography by www.elegantlywed.co.uk
Couples who held their weddings at Spains Hall during 2011, were invited to a unique event at Spains Hall by Sir Timothy and Lady Ruggles-Brise on Sunday.
In the spring sunshine former Brides and Grooms, with their families and friends were asked to plant a tree in memory of their wedding day or ceremony at Spains Hall.
Some forty guests enjoyed the Spains Hall hospitality, starting the event with a champagne – bucks fizz reception prior to planting their own tree in the glorious grounds of Spains Hall followed by a celebratory lunch in the Stables.
Sir Timothy commented, "We are absolutely delighted to welcome so many couples and their families back to Spains to mark the great occasion of their wedding. The opportunity to plant your own tree is designed to maintain a long and happy association with The Spains Hall Estate. Couples are encouraged to revisit Spains in the future to see their tree and to remember their great day."
A huge thanks to our Suggested Supplier David Michael Photography www.elegantlywed.co.uk for taking such amazing pictures.
For full details see our website http://www.spainshall.co.uk/weddings/wedding_club/
Contact: Jessica Duck on 01371 811596, Email: firstname.lastname@example.com
Sam Ruggles-Brise on 07791 780521, Email: email@example.com
Spains Hall restoration nominated for prestigious RICS Architecture Award
2010 saw the completion of an historic renovation of Spains Hall manor house, Finchingfield in Essex. The culmination of almost two years work by a team of skilled craftsmen, Spains Hall is now looking better than ever and forms part of a thriving Weddings and Hospitality business as well as being a wonderful family home. Today Spains Hall stands proudly in its stunning rural Essex surroundings offering an unrivalled experience to all those who celebrate there, thanks in no small part to the quality and attention to detail of the renovation team, headed by Kay Pilsbury Architects.
"Stripping the house back down to its bones gave us the opportunity to learn a great deal about how it has evolved since the early 15th Century." said Sir Timothy Ruggles-Brise, Spains Hall's current owner.
"For instance we now know that the original structure, dating from 1410, was a medieval moated farmhouse with a separate kitchen building. This came to light as we were digging trenches for a new set of toilets in the public rooms. The builders uncovered an arched brick cap which turned out to be sealing the top of a live well – in what is now the middle of the house! It was too interesting a feature to cover over again so now the gentlemen at a function in Spains Hall have an interesting view through the floor!"
Other unusual things that came to light as the works progressed included a massive oak beam that had been heavily charred by fire. Sir Timothy takes up the tale,
"We always believed the house had suffered from a fire in the 18th Century but had never been able to find out exactly where the fire occurred or how much damage it might have caused, not least as the house has always remained standing. We uncovered a huge oak beam that had obviously borne the brunt of a serious fire above one of the first floor doorways. Whilst it was almost half burnt through the engineers confirmed that it had plenty of strength left to hold up a whole floor - something to say for good old English oak!"
Spains Hall has gathered a reputation for resilience following the discovery of a notebook giving an account of that the Great English Earthquake of 1884 that was felt at Spains Hall. The earthquake, magnitude 4.6 according to records from the British Geological Survey, was the most destructive in 400 years. Damage to Spains Hall however was limited to a few broken windows and the odd crack!
Spains Hall continues to generate history as the Ruggles-Brise family celebrated 250 years in occupation in 2010 and each year numerous couples are married in its historic surroundings.
An Essex Wedding magazine featured one of our brilliant couples married here at Spains Hall in their March edition as the 'Real Wedding'.
The Perfect Summer Ceremony
Imagine the perfection of getting married outside on a warm summers day or evening in the historic surroundings of the Spains Hall Rose Garden.
From April through to October we are opening our Summer House to couples for their wedding ceremony. The thatched Summer House and rose garden will give a magical back drop to your wedding.
Both the Summer House and garden are steeped in history dating back to the turn of the 20th Century. The carefully refurbished Summer House is situated within easy access to the main house with ample room in the garden for your guests to enjoy the occasion.
Summer House Ceremonies are subject to the Registrars decision regarding weather.
Unfortunately the Musical evening has been Postponed due to illness amongst the performers. Please contact email@example.com or call 01371 812995 for further information and refunds.
The High Sheriff of Essex - Lady Rosemary Ruggles-Brise DL invites you to join her for "Une Soiree Musicale" here at Spains Hall on Friday 18th November 2011.
We are delighted to welcome the Ensemble De La Chapelle for a musical evening in aid of The High Sheriff of Essex's Fund. You are invited 7pm for 7.30pm Drinks, canapés and a light supper will be provided in Spains Hall prior to the performance.
The £50 each tickets are limited so please apply now to email@example.com or call 01371 812995.
The latest Ruggles-Brise wedding at Spains Hall came complete with one of the most unusual cakes we've seen. Archie's sister and her husband are mad keen on snow sports and so had a cake designed to match!
Finesse Cakes by Sue Field
Let us cast a spell on you!
Click below to see us in the UK's No 1 Bridal Magazine - Brides
Youth cricket saved by Spains Hall Estate owners
as reported by the Saffron Walden Reporter
By Nick Thompson, Sports Editor Wednesday, July 6, 2011 12:38 PM
AN under threat youth cricket setup has been rescued, thanks to the generosity of a family that share a lot of history with the club itself.
On Saturday, the Spains Hall Estate invited Finchingfield Cricket Club's (FCC) junior section to carry out a training session on the front lawns. Junior cricket had been under threat this season, until the estate stepped in to help out.
Club chairman Paul Denman explains: "With our head coach relocating due to work, we were left potentially unable to cover the weekly coaching sessions.
"The Spains Hall Estate which has now become our new club sponsor, is particularly interested in supporting our younger players. They have enabled us to pay for support coaching for this coming season and also to set aside money for training ready for next."
Speaking after the rescue Archie Ruggles-Brise, manager of the estate, added: "We are delighted to be involved with a community-focused activity for local young players. Historically, the club used to play on Spains Hall's lawns and it is wonderful to re-establish the direct link."
Coaching for under 13s, Saturday mornings 10–11 am, runs through the summer and Finchingfield CC welcomes new players of all ages and abilities. Senior nets are Wednesday evenings at 6pm. The club was reformed in 2006 and plays local friendly fixtures. It runs junior coaching sessions, takes an active part in the local community and runs village events, such as the Finchingfield 3-legged race.
For further details visit finchingfieldcc.co.uk or call 07791653484.
Three-legged pub race hailed a success (as reported in the Halstead Gazette)
Villagers were treated to an unusual sight as nuns, Simpsons and the Spartans were seen running around. Seventeen pairs took part in a three-legged race between the cricket club, Fox Inn, Red Lion and Three Tuns in Finchingfield on June 18.
Finchingfield Cricket Club organised the annual race, which is sponsored by Spains Hall Estate and involves crossing the village pond twice. Secretary Jeremy Toynbee said: "They do it for the fun, beer or to raise money for their chosen charity or good cause."
When: Saturday 18 June, 3 pm
Where: around the village, centred on pond and green
Seventeen, three-legged pairs took up the challenge of racing around the village, drinking at
the three pubs and fording the pond twice, in the now annual Finchingfield Three-legged
Race. The winners Ian Somerville and Martin Beard set a new course record of 11m30s,
shaving nearly 2 minutes of the previous best.
Lady Rosemary Ruggles-Brise, High Sheriff of Essex was on hand to present the trophy
to the winners and bubbly to those winning the best fancy dress competition, John Robinson
and Cath Littlemore (Wethersfield RSPCA).
Paul Denman, Club Chairman, said: 'We were delighted with the turn out considering the
squally weather and thank all those who helped make it a wonderful occasion, particularly our
pubs The Fox Inn, Red Lion and Three Tuns.'
Sir Timothy Ruggles-Brise, of club sponsor the Spains Hall Estate, added: 'We are
delighted to be associated with the club, in particular its junior section, and with this wonderful
event. Sponsorship money is still coming in I understand, but a provisional total of at least
£1300 has been raise for local and nation charities, including Wethersfield RSPCA and the
Children's Heart Foundation, and the club.'
Further info available from Club Secretary Jeremy Toynbee on 07791653484 or
Photos from are available at
Finchingfield CC was reformed in 2006 and plays local friendly fixtures. It runs junior
coaching sessions, takes an active part in the local community and runs village events, such
as the Finchingfield 3-legged race.
For further details about Finchingfield Cricket Club please
visit our website at http://www.finchingfieldcc.co.uk or contact the Club Secretary on 07791653484.
Spains Hall Estate Family-owned Spains Hall and its exquisite grounds have the flexibility for a variety of events including weddings, parties, private functions, meetings, conferences, corporate fun days and fund raising events. All levels of hospitality can be provided from fine dining to a buffet or hog roast, with venue exclusivity and a wide variety of packages available to suit your requirements and budget. For further details please visit our website at www.spainshall.co.uk
Always in the party mood. Anglia Business Magazine promotes Spains Hall for Christmas parties.
See the press cutting here
DATE: 3rd June 2011
Spains Hall, one of the finest venues in Essex for weddings and corporate events has recently formed a new partnership to take the business forward into to new areas of
events and functions.
The new partnership driven by 31 year old Archie Ruggles-Brise will of course still host weddings as it's core business but will develop corporate business and other private parties and events.
"We have recently given ourselves a make over with a new branding, the launch of an impressive new website and a stunning brochure. Our new image is much cleaner, simple and endorses the feel and fabric of all we offer at Spains Hall." commented Archie.
Our new website is much easier to navigate and takes you to where you want to be quickly. It has been designed to be inspirational and interesting for the user whilst readily giving all the detail that goes into planning a wedding or an event.
See coverage of this story in the Press..
Dunmow Broadcast 12th June 2011
For further information please contact:
Sam Ruggles-Brise
E: email@example.com
W: http://www.spainshall.co.uk
Guildhall Campaign Launched
As reported by the Braintree and Witham Times
A campaign to restore a village landmark has been officially launched.
The team behind the restoration of Finchingfield's Guildhall hosted a reception for more than 100 guests at Spains Hall, the home of High Sheriff of Essex Lady Rosemary Ruggles-Brise and her husband Sir Timothy.
It was to celebrate raising £1.6m, which allows work to start this autumn, and to launch the campaign to raise the remaining £150,000 needed to complete work.
High Sheriff visits Harp homeless centre
click here to read the original article
A Charity for the homeless that aims to expand in Southend received a special visit from the High Sheriff of Essex.
HARP (Homeless Action Resource Project) wants to transform the empty Darnley Hotel, in York Road, into a combined accommodation and training centre. It would provide 24-hour help, including 21 beds, living space and training rooms, as well as a dedicated medical centre. It would replace the day centre, in Valkyrie Road, Westcliff, which is in poor repair, as well as the 14-bed night shelter, also in York Road.
It was High Sheriff Lady Ruggles-Brise's first visit to the day centre. She was invited to find out more about the services provided. As part of her tour, she was shown plans for the Darnley Hotel site, as well as more immediate plans for a medical room, staffed by doctors and nurses, at the day centre. She said: "The Harp project is a very needed charity. "It was lovely to see the way everybody is extremely positive about the services they receive, as well as the quality. "The charity does a tremendous job. "The facility is cramped here and it is a very progressive team, which wants to expand." As well as providing breakfasts and dinners, the centre also offers basic training skills, as well as a change of clothes, food parcels and internet facilities to search for jobs and accommodation. The charity has helped between 1,500 and 2,000 people a year since it launched 25 years ago. It hopes the move to the £1.25million accommodation and training centre will allow it to aid even more people.
Caption: Lady Ruggles-Brise with Dwayne Curtis, 40, during her visit to the HARP centre
Neal McArdle, the charity's resettlement team leader, said: "We would be able to offer better quality services and help more people. "The location would mean we could work closely with clients." The charity still needs £400,000 to carry out the scheme. It is in the process of completing a planning application for the scheme. The move follows a positive response from a public consultation. The proposals will be submitted to Southend Council ishortly. To donate to the project, call 01702 615000 or visit www.harpsouthend.co.uk
Take a look at our videos showing what we can offer for your Wedding Day - a great snapshot of our service. Then come and see for yourself to talk through your special day!
Lady Rosemary became the 831st High Sheriff of Essex on 29th March 2011. In an historic declaration ceremony held at Chelmsford Crown Court Lady Rosemary made the solemn declaration in front of the Lord Lieutenant, Lord Petre, Crown Court Judges and the outgoing High Sheriff, Michael Hindemarsh.
To learn more about the High Sheriff's work and fund-raising activities visit www.highsheriffs.com/Essex/Index.htm
Welcome to the New Spains Hall Website. We hope you find all the information you need, in a clearer, and more attractive format.
We would love to hear your comments! Please email… firstname.lastname@example.com.
Spains Hall is located just outside Finchingfield – widely regarded as the most beautiful village in Essex. The Estate is a prominent featureof the local environment and community. It plays an important role both as an employer and as a focus of local history.


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Terrace Agriculture and Soil Erosion
Science Extension
- Region
- Africa, Asia, China, Guinea
- Grade
- Grades 3-5, Grades 6-8, Grades 9-12
- Subjects
- Science, Social Studies & Geography
By viewing slide shows from Peace Corps Volunteers who served in China and Africa, students will explore the practice of terrace agriculture around the world and its effectiveness in maximizing space while minimizing soil erosion.
Begin by viewing the slide show, A Taste of Tongren, from a Peace Corps Volunteer in China, and discussing the central concepts using the accompanying lesson plan, What Can Food Tell Us About a Place? In the slide show, the narrator mentions the practice of terrace farming of rice fields. Students will view a second slide show, Fighting Soil Erosion, created by Peace Corps Volunteer in Guinea. Next, they will explore the practice of terrace agriculture around the world and its effectiveness in maximizing space while minimizing soil erosion.
Students will
- identify soil as an essential resource for food production
- describe the process of soil erosion
- demonstrate the utility of terrace agriculture for preventing soil erosion, and give real-world examples of this practice
- Large piece of cardboard
- Potting soil
- Bottle of water
- Clay
- Sticks
- Rocks
- Revisit the photo from the slide show depicting terrace farming on rice fields. (linked above)
- How and why do you think farmers create terraced fields?
- How would terracing increase farmland capacity?
- What are other possible benefits?
- View the slide show Fighting Soil Erosion to see a comparative example of terrace agriculture in Guinea. Discuss how terrace farming helps prevent soil erosion and why this is important.
- Demonstrate the process of soil erosion on a hillside. Pour soil evenly over a large piece of cardboard. Prop the cardboard up on one end. Pour water over the soil, and observe how it washes down the hillside.
- Have students experiment with creating terraces on the cardboard using sticks, rocks, and clay. Test the model again. How do the terraces help hold the soil in place?
Frameworks & Standards
Enduring understanding
- Food production and human survival require adaptation to nature.
- Resource conservation is essential for a sustainable future.
Essential Questions
- Why is soil conservation important?
- How can our understanding of natural processes help us solve real-world problems?
- Content Standard D: Earth and Space Science
- Content Standard F: Science in Personal and Social Perspectives
Terraces around the world
Research other countries or cultures that have employed terrace agriculture (e.g., Philippines, Indonesia, Malaysia, Vietnam, Turkey, Japan, Italy, England, the Incas in South America, the Aztecs in Mexico). What other types of crops have these cultures successfully grown on terraced fields? Create a map highlighting global examples of terrace agriculture.

subset: commoncrawl


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Lusetich: US struggles in Sochi as star athletes perform poorly
Team USA, which finished with more medals than any other nation in Vancouver four years ago, is in danger of being marginalized in Sochi.
SOCHI, Russia -- Eighth is (not so) great.
Eighth, however, is the new reality for American superstars at the Winter Olympics after speed skater Shani Davis became the latest gold medal favorite to fail to even get to the podium here.
Like skiers Bode Miller and Julia Mancuso, Davis finished eighth on Wednesday in his signature event, the 1,000 meters, where he was seeking to become the first American male to win gold in the same event for three consecutive Games.
The 31-year-old from inner city Chicago got off to a sluggish start and, shockingly, couldn't find the speed necessary to eclipse the new arena record of 1:08.39 set by Dutchman Stefan Groothuis.
Davis' listlessness surprised even Groothuis, who posted his time then fully expected to lose.
"I was really nervous," he said, "I thought, 'Shani is going to get it'."
He thought wrong, of course.
"This one hurts a lot," said a disappointed Davis.
He was philosophical, though.
"I am not in shock, I am very in tune with reality.
"It's sports, you win some, you lose some.
"I just wasn't there today. It was nothing physical. There is no excuse.
"I wasn't good enough today."
It seems to be a recurring theme with the US, which has fallen into fifth place on the medal table, behind surprise leaders Germany, Canada, Norway and the Netherlands.
It's maybe too soon to push the panic button, especially after the United States took two medals in the women's snowboard halfpipe Wednesday night. But Team USA, which finished with more medals than any other nation in Vancouver four years ago, is still in danger of being marginalized in Sochi.
And the fingers of blame are being pointed at the big names, who have not delivered.
Snowboarding superstar Shaun White left Russia after a nightmare week, controversially withdrawing from the slopestyle event and then finishing fourth in the halfpipe event he dominates.
Skiers Miller, Mancuso and Hannah Kearney all had their colors lowered, as did Kikkan Randall in the women's cross-country sprint free.
Davis didn't want to draw larger conclusions about his failure, but fellow speed skater Brian Hansen -- a medal contender who had to settle for ninth in the 1000m -- acknowledged these Games haven't been good for a US speed skating team that arrived with high hopes.
"We had one of the most successful World Cups we've ever had (in 2013) and I was thinking we're on top of the world and things are looking great for the Olympics and then suddenly you come here and we've missed out on (seven) potential (speed skating) medals," he said.
"There hasn't been any luck for the US.
"It's a mystery to me. I think it's a mystery to a lot of people."
Not a total mystery, perhaps.
The truth is the Americans have saved their worst for the finals.
White was untouchable in qualifying for the halfpipe final, then stumbled on his first run in the finals and couldn't deliver on his second. Miller and Mancuso dominated, too, until the moment of truth.
Kearney, meanwhile, was in tears after winning her bronze medal.
She felt like she'd lost gold, not won anything.
"I feel like I let myself down," she said.
"I wanted that gold medal, and I skied for it, but I made a huge mistake, and you don't win the Olympics when you make a huge mistake."
After more than 20 years of covering everything from election campaigns to the Olympic Games, Robert Lusetich, FOXSports.com Senior Golf Writer, turned his focus to writing about his first love: golf. He is author of Unplayable: An Inside Account of Tiger's Most Tumultuous Season. Follow him on Twitter.


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Hulu's Best in Show moves into round 3
I've been working on the road the last couple of days (which is also why I'm skipping "30 Rock" reviews this week; I haven't seen the episodes), and a few things get lost in the shuffle when you're on the move. One of those is my weekly check-in on Hulu's Best in Show contest, which I continue to serve as guest judge for, and which has just moved into the third round.
Among last week's notable results: "Archer"(*) edged out "Louie," "Community" solidly beat "Parks and Recreation," and "The Walking Dead" beat "Fringe."
(*) Which I am many weeks behind on, and will catch up on eventually when I am in need of several hours of concentrated, explosive laughter.
Thus far, "Archer" is beating "Modern Family," when "MF" has to this point done very well against various cult-y competition, "Community" is thumping "New Girl," "Game of Thrones" is losing by a good margin to "Sons of Anarchy" and "Breaking Bad" is neck-and-neck with "The Walking Dead"
If you are displeased with any or all of those results, now is the time to go vote, and we'll be back next week (and hopefully on Thursday morning again) to discuss the final four.


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At The World Cup, South Korea Wins For Having The Cutest Newscaster
by MICHELLE WOO
Aside from that game where a bunch of guys in long socks chase after a ball, the World Cup is known for its spectators. And one who has been charming the Internet is Jang Ye-won.
The South Korean newscaster was sent to Brazil to cover the Spain vs Chile match. In a news clip about her trip, she's seen wearing a Spain jersey while clapping and smiling at the camera.
Let's see that again.
And again.
And again.
Who says this year's World Cup is a downer?
Here's Jang Ye-won eating noodles and a parfait.


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Day of Rage – When Mayhem Comes For The Saudis?
"If Saudi Arabia were to become unhinged, the consequences are almost impossible to imagine—politically, economically, at every level," said Ryan Crocker, who was the U.S. ambassador to Iraq until 2009. "But I don't see it happening." National Journal.com. Saudi Arabia suffers from a despotic, myopic, reactionary government that bases its authority upon a religion that quite literally demands that its followers render all non-Islamic countries | Read More »


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Miss Lily's 'Body Good' Menu; Rockettes-Themed People's Pops
Plus: Bacon, Keg & Cheese Party at 5 Napkin Burger, and more, in today's Leftovers.
People's Pops is creating a Rockettes-themed ice pop. On August 13, a Christmas-themed food truck will travel throughout the city distributing the new ice pop for free as part of an annual "Christmas in August" event. [Grub Street]
Miss Lily's is introducing a new "Body Good" menu at its café, with dishes like quinoa seaweed salad with miso dressing, and spinach and chickpea salad with curry soy yogurt. You can top all of the salads with grilled jerk tofu. [Grub Street]
On August 10, 5 Napkin Burger in Astoria is throwing a Bacon, Keg & Cheese Party from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Bottomless pints and a special bacon, egg, and cheese brunch burger will cost $20 for guests sitting on the patio. For reservations, call the restaurant at 718-433-2727. [Grub Street]
Anassa Taverna in midtown is now serving lunch daily from 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., and there's a new prix fixe lunch for $20.13. [Grub Street]


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Key things you need to know aboutDr. Printy:
Dr. Printy's Experience
Research training, expertise and qualifications
Dr. Printy's Specialties
- Obstetrics & Gynecology
Procedures Dr. Printy Performs
- Colporrhaphy
- Colposcopy
- See all 23 procedures
More About Dr. Printy's Background
Hospital Quality
The right hospital is as important as the right doctor
- Firelands Regional Medical Center
- 1111 Hayes Ave
- Sandusky, OH 44870
9 Facts About Hospital Quality
Patients' risk of dying during a hospital stay for heart bypass surgery could be 87.4% lower, on average, at a hospital rated 5 stars compared to a hospital rated 1 star for that procedure. Choosing the right hospital is critical to your health. View Slideshow
Patient Satisfaction
Patients' feedback on their experience with Dr. Printy
Likelihood of recommending Dr. Printy to family and friends is 4 out of 5 5 1 7
See More Survey Results
8 Facts About Patient Satisfaction Surveys
Patient satisfaction surveys provide a standardized way of reporting about healthcare experiences. But there can be more than meets the eye when reviewing scores. Here's what you should know
Appointments & Offices
Check insurance plans, locations and make an appointment
Accepting new patients?
- Yes
- Noms Healthcare
- Noms Healthcare
- 2500 W Strub Rd Ste 210
- Sandusky, OH 44870
- (419) 625-2841
- Directions
- Prepare for Your Appointment
7 Tips to Prepare for Your Appointment
The key to a successful appointment is communication. To get the most out of your visit, prepare ahead of time so you can lead the conversation with your doctor. These 7 tips will get you ready
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This confirms that we have received your survey about Dr. Printy. Please note: Your insights will help other patients make informed decisions. Please note: it may take 1 business day for your survey response to appear.
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Our records show that you have already confirmed your survey for Dr. Printy. Please note: it takes 24 hours for your survey results to show up on the doctor's profile.


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Images: Army vs. Navy [Image 3 of 29]
Photo by Todd Cichonowicz
A member of the "Leap Frogs," the U.S. Navy parachute demonstration team, prepares for a patriotic landing prior to the 108th annual Army/Navy football game. The Midshipmen defeated the Cadets 38-3, for a sixth straight victory over the Black Knights. (U.S. Navy Photo/Chief mass communication specialist Todd P. Cichonowicz)
This work, Army vs. Navy [Image 1 of 29], by Todd Cichonowicz, identified by DVIDS, is free of known copyright restrictions under U.S. copyright law.
Date Taken:12.01.2007
Date Posted:12.12.2007 10:37
Photo ID:68431
Size:942.78 KB
Location:BALTIMORE, MD, US


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I have great news: nobody else died for me to write about. Let's hope the trend continues.
Just about any decent triathlete would be able to tell you that today is the day of the Ironman World Championship in Kona. It is almost 4am there, which means my QT2 teammates are already up and eating breakfast. I haven't even had mine yet and we're six hours ahead. I'm really looking forward to watching the race unfold. Wishing I was there and of course wishing I was racing. But I certainly didn't earn it this year. I am, however, coaching my first athlete through it. MaryBeth Romagnoli earned her spot in Lake Placid. She is one of many examples why some people make it and some people don't. It's not some magical talent that appears after some swimming biking and running. She barely ran a step before Placid due to some lingering issues so we had to push through with extra biking and water running. Have you ever done a whole lot of water running? It's excruciatingly boring. But she never complained once. I'd ask her every once in a while, sort of prodding to see if the water running was driving her insane yet, but she'd pretty much just tell me she was fine, just doing what she had to do. We do work her schedule around her family time (wife with two sons) but she doesn't make excuses for anything, just gets it done. And that is why she is there. While I do think there is at least some pure athletic ability that is involved in getting certain athletes to Kona, I think you'd probably find that it is the most dedicated athletes and not necessarily the most genetically gifted that are racing there.
As for me, I start officially training on Monday. I haven't had a schedule since May. I haven't run a step since June fourth. I haven't done a long bike ride since the weekend before Mooseman. I've probably done about 97 less loads of laundry since then that I otherwise would've done had I had mountains of sweaty run and bike clothes every single day. I am pretty sure that the last time I went that long without running was from birth to... whenever I started running. I am told that I actually sort of ran before I walked, supporting myself with one of those stupid little plastic shopping carts and running circles between the living room, dining room and kitchen. So you can imagine I'm a bit nervous as to how this is all going to go.
But, well, I really just have to do what I have to do, right? I'll admit I think the past couple of years I've mostly just been scared. Scared of what? Scared that if I worked really hard and did everything I was supposed to do I still might fail. I don't really know why, because every other time I gave it my all I wound up with results beyond what I hoped for. The only exception was Ironman Arizona in 2007, and in that case it was a time goal I didn't hit but mostly it had to do with the fact that the wind was crazy that day. I don't know why I spent so much time thinking about the time I didn't hit rather than the fact that I'd won my age group by an hour.
I keep hearing about all of these things like if you just think it will be true, then it will be. You have to go into things with the attitude that the outcome you want is simply inevitable. I have been resistant to this sort of thinking because to me it just seems arrogant and cocky. I'm pretty sure that those are personality traits that I do not possess. But I'm going to do my best to get into my head that planning for success does not make you arrogant. At least I don't think it does. And it I'm pretty sure that I only have to believe these things for myself instead of walking around trying to get other people to believe them.
So my only choice is to go into this season first, with the mind set that I will do everything that I need to do in order to be the athlete I want to be. This goes way beyond just the training itself. I've proven over the past couple of years that you can do all of the training and still not get the results you want. This will mean eating the things I'm supposed to eat, sleeping as much as I need to, making the most of every training session and pushing when it needs to happen, and taking all of the calcium and vitamin D to make sure that my bones all remain intact for the entire season and hopefully beyond.
When things aren't going well it gets difficult to see that doing the hard work does pay off. It's a lot tougher to motivate yourself when you're struggling to run ten minute miles when you know that a while ago sub-eights were a breeze. It sucks and it's frustrating. But progress is still progress and you're never going to get over that wall if you don't keep trying to push through. You should know I've been trying to tell myself this for a while now, and it is definitely easier said than done. But I'm running out of time here and if I don't just get over it and start thinking about what I need to do then it's going to be necessary that I find something else to do with my time.
So here we go, 2012 is the beginning of my... what are we at, sixth second chance now? I've lost track. I might as well just call it the last chance. 2011 was supposed to be the last chance but you can't entirely fault me for being injured all season. I'm hoping this incredibly extensive break was just what I needed to freshen my body (hopefully not just let it get terribly out of shape) and get me ready to once again mentally tackle Ironman training. I haven't done an Ironman in over a year and I hardly even remember what it's like to be in the middle of one. So maybe forgetting the pain will also be helpful!
I'll update here more often. I was about to write try to update more often, but that just gives me an out. Yoda said there is no try, right? Is anyone smarter than Yoda? I have also been working on putting my internal clock back where it needs to be. I used to think waking up at six was sleeping in. I've been getting up at 5:30 and heading to the gym to swim and use the dreaded elliptical to simulate some form of running and it's been torture. I'll get there, it's just tougher than I remember. I think watching the Kona coverage today will help, though.
So I am going to spend the next several months trying to remind myself of this whenever I am dreading a run workout and upset that I am incredibly slow. It doesn't happen overnight. It didn't happen overnight the first time. Although I certainly hope it takes a little less time because I don't have three years anymore. It also blows my mind when I start to really think how old I am!
In about an hour the pros are off and I'll be anxiously watching my friends and teammates racing and trying to convince myself that next year I will be back there with them. There is a lot of work ahead of me to get there, but what else do I have to do?
Saturday, October 8, 2011
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The Jacob H. Carruthers Center for Inner City Studies (CCICS) was established by Northeastern Illinois University (NEIU) in 1966 as an outgrowth of its concern for and commitment to Chicago's inner city communities. Since its inception, CCICS has focused on the analysis of institutions, systems and people with a direct impact on the quality of life in the inner cities of the U.S. and elsewhere in the world by creating programmatic and research initiatives. CCICS demonstrates NEIU's urban tradition of education, research and service.
The curricular thrust of the undergraduate and graduate programs of CCICS is to prepare those who work and live in the inner city to understand and act upon the expressed interests of residents of the inner city and to participate fully in the richness of the African and African-American cultures. Since the beginning, the approach has been interdisciplinary with effective curricula and a philosophy, which re-examines every research issue, problem, assumption and question from an African-centered perspective, rather than from the traditional, European-centered viewpoint. This discipline encompasses a research methodology and worldview, which achieves different results when applied to present day inner city populations, and leads to new relationships between human and natural resources in the Chicago metropolitan area and worldwide.
CCICS staff assists prospective students and their families with the admission and financial aid processes to get started on their academic journey at Northeastern. CCICS houses the bachelor's and master's programs of Inner City Studies Education, as well as an undergraduate minor in Inner City Careers. CCICS provides comprehensive academic support and co-curricular programs for students. CCICS serves nontraditional, part-time and returning adult student populations as well as traditional first-year and transfer students. CCICS also offers the general education program of Northeastern to students who are interested in taking day or evening classes.
In keeping with Northeastern's mission, CCICS provides a quality education at an affordable price.
Since 1966, CCICS has been a leading center of scholarship and activism in this country. Located on Chicago's South Side in the historic Bronzeville neighborhood, CCICS has worked toward the forward progression of African American culture and life.
In the beginning, CCICS opened its doors with a graduate program in Inner City Studies with the purpose of training and preparing more teachers to work in inner city schools. An undergraduate program was added in due time. In the early 1970s, an emphasis on cultural enrichment and interconnectedness across the African diaspora was added to the teacher training curriculum.
CCICS is named after Dr. Jacob H. Carruthers, who came to Northeastern and the Center for Inner City Studies in 1968. Dr. Carruthers eventually became the Director of the Center and played an integral role in formulating the curriculum that would go on to benefit many Inner City Studies Education students in the years to come. The building was named after Dr. Carruthers in 2004, after his passing that same year.
CCICS has two computer labs, equipped with more than 30 computers (PCs and Macs) with online access to the main campus, the Internet and libraries around the world.
CCICS houses a branch of Northeastern's Ronald Williams Library. CCICS's library houses the most extensive resource center on African-American issues in the Midwest. In addition, it contains master theses of CCICS graduates that document a multitude of African-centered research and studies compiled on politics, education and history of the culture of African-Americans since the late 1960s.
CCICS is home to two chartered student organizations: 1) the Inner City Studies Major Club, and 2) the UTATU Collective.
Student Disability Services (SDS) are available at CCICS. SDS provides academic and technical assistance to students and works closely with faculty to facilitate student access. We provide students with physical and learning disabilities reasonable accommodations and services in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). To apply for services students must self-identify disability by submitting documentation based upon diagnosed need from appropriate professionals.
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