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Your One Stop Travel Shopping Resource
The Travel Store in each AAA Hoosier Motor Club location offers brand name luggage and travel bags. Other items include RFID blocking items, TSA approved locks, travel books and more.
All stores are staffed with very knowledgeable employees that are ready to assist you with your travel needs. Members receive exclusive savings on regular retail prices on a variety of travel items. AAA Premier members, take an additional 10% off already discounted member pricing. Use your AAA Member Rewards Visa® credit card and earn 3X points on all merchandise purchases is the Travel Store.
Members can also purchase a wide selection of attraction tickets and Walt Disney World (Florida) tickets at store locations.
We Have What You Need to Travel in Style
Featured Luggage
Ricardo Beverly Hills
Expandable "Spinner" Uprights with technology pockets. Extra-organized Sausalito. Two Colors: Blue Twist & Midnight Blue
Olympia Cascade
Cascade 20" Outdoor Upright Carry-On With Hideaway Backpack Straps. Perfect for your weekend adventure or your personal airline carry-on. Two Colors: Royal Blue & Green
Travelpro Maxlite 5
International Spinner Carry-On. This carry-on soft-sided spinner is so light, it flies! Two Colors: Dusty Rose & Slate Green
Shop our Baggallini collection for women's handbags, shoulder bags, totes, crossbodies, luggage and more. Visit a AAA Travel Store today to check out our travel selection.
Shop Travel Accessories, Guide Books and More!
Travel Books
North America Atlas: United States / Canada & Mexico (Kappa MapGroup)
Birnbaum's 2020 Guide to Walt Disney World: The Official Guide
Birnbaum's 2020 Guide to Walt Disney World for Kids: The Official Guide
Lee Publications Invisible Ink series (Use the Invisible Ink pen to reveal invisibly printed pictures and answers)
Lonely Planet Guides
Discover Series: France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, London, Paris, and Spain
Fast Talk Series: French, German, Italian, and Spanish
Pocket Guides: London, Paris, Rome
Road Trips and National Parks: Civil War Trail, Route 66, USA's Trips, and USA's National Parks
Travel Accessories
Worldwide Adaptor Kit by Design Go
Body Pocket by Design Go
Digital Scale by Design Go
Tag Me by Design Go
Latex Clothesline by Lewis N. Clark
Dual Converter Kit by Lewis N. Clark
TSA Combination Lock by Lewis N. Clark
TSA Key Lock by Lewis N. Clark
Set of 2 Compression Bags by Travelon
Dual USB Charge & Adapter by Travelon
Neck Pouch by Travelon
Waist Pouch by Travelon
AquaPockets Bottle Carrier by Smooth Trip
Neat'n Fresh Laundry Bags-2Pack by Smooth Trip
Lighted Pocket Magnifier by Smooth Trip
Nightlight Charging Station by Smooth Trip
Triple USB Wall Charger by Smooth Trip
Aluminum Luggage Tag in Pink or Silver by Smooth Trip
Waterproof Waist Pack by Smooth Trip
International Drivers Permit (IDP) Protector by Smooth Trip
Health & Comfort
Acustraps by Design Go
Memory Lumbar Support Pillow by Design Go
Memory Pillow by Design Go
Pillow Duo by Design Go
Super Snoozer by Design Go
Mos Repel Mosquito Band by Lewis N. Clark
Travel Slippers (Men & Women Styles) by NuFoot
Compression Socks (Large & Medium) by Travelon
Slim Sonic Toothbrush by VioLife
Emergency Roadside Kits and Safety Products
AAA "Tune Up" First Aid Kit
AAA Traveler 64-Piece Road Kit
Arctic Guard Windshield Snow & Ice Cover
RFID and Anti-Theft Fashion Bags
Big Zipper Crossbody by Baggallini
Bryant Pouch by Baggallini
Everywhere Bagg by Baggallini
Pocket Crossbody by Baggallini
Quilted Avenue by Baggallini
Quilted Pocket by Baggallini
Anti-Theft Boho Ladies Wallet by Travelon
Anti-Theft Boho Convertible Crossbody Clutch by Travelon
Anti-Theft Boho Slim Bag by Travelon
Anti-Theft Boho Square Crossbody by Travelon
Anti-Theft Boho Backpack by Travelon
Anti-Theft Classic Crossbody Bag by Travelon
Anti-Theft Classic Crossbody Bucket Bag by Travelon
Anti-Theft Classic Messenger Bag by Travelon
Anti-Theft Classic Mini Shoulder by Travelon
Anti-Theft Classic Travel Bag by Travelon
Anti-Theft Signature Slim Pouch by Travelon
RFID Blocking Holders and Wallets
RFID Money Belt by Design GO
RFID Passport Holder by Design GO
RFID Passport Pouch by Design GO
RFID Wallet by Design GO
RFID Credit Card Shield by Lewis N. Clark
RFID Blocking Card Sleeve by Travelon
RFID Blocking Card Case by Travelon
RFID Passport Case by Travelon
RFID Trifold Wallet by Travelon
RFID Ladies Wallet by Travelon
RFID Family Travel Organizer by Smooth Trip
RFID Blocking Wallet-Black by Smooth Trip
RFID Blocking Wallet-Green by Smooth Trip
RFID Blocking Wallet-Pink by Smooth Trip
RFID Blocking Protector Set by Smooth Trip
QuickPick RFID Blocking Card Case by Smooth Trip
Please note: AAA Travel Store inventory and availability may change at any time. Check with your local office for specific details.


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What does carbon neutral mean?
Carbon neutral means that the net greenhouse gas emissions associated with an activity are equal to zero.
For an electricity product to be considered carbon neutral, action must be taken to reduce and offset greenhouse gases emitted by the generation and delivery of that electricity.
How is carbon neutrality achieved?
The most common way is through carbon offsetting, which is when organisations buy eligible carbon offsets (sometimes called a carbon credit) to compensate for the emissions they produce. These offsets are created from initiatives that prevent, reduce or remove greenhouse gas emissions in the atmosphere. Find out more about carbon offsetting.
Why should I choose Carbon Neutral electricity?
Carbon Neutral is certified by Climate Active
- It's an affordable way to offset emissions associated with the supply of electricity to your small business
- It's easy – all you need to do is opt in
- You're making a difference both locally and globally
Climate Active is an Australian network of individuals, businesses and organisations that aims to empower Australians to take climate action now and for the future. The Climate Active network is comprised of certified members across a wide range of industries. This government-backed program enables all levels of Australian society to work together to protect the environment.
How it works
Use your electricity as normal
Your electricity comes from the grid and creates carbon emissions, which affect climate change. We'll calculate the emissions associated with the electricity that's delivered to your business.
We offset these emissions
We buy eligible carbon credits from accredited projects to offset emissions associated with the generation and supply of electricity delivered to your business.
Together, we make a difference
We choose offset projects from Australia and around the world that deliver real benefits for the planet. So you and your customers know your small change is making a big impact.
How do I sign up?
You can add Carbon Neutral to any small business electricity plan. Get started by choosing a plan that's right for you.
It's easy to add Carbon Neutral to your existing electricity plan by messaging us here or in My Account. You'll need to be the account holder and have your account number handy.
Carbon Neutral carries over from your existing plan if you move to another AGL contract (unless you move premises).
Have a large business? You'll need to request a call back so we can get you set up.
Let's look towards tomorrow
We heard you loud and clear, Australia – a sustainable future matters to you. And it matters to us, too.
It's why we've been busy making some of the biggest investments in renewables across Australia. Like investing in local wind and solar farms and battery technology.
While Carbon Neutral is our next step towards a sustainable future, it certainly won't be the last.
Frequently asked questions
AGL is proud to be a part of the Climate Active network.
Climate Active is an Australian network of individuals, businesses and organisations that aim to empower Australians to take climate action now and for the future. The Climate Active network is comprised of certified members across a wide range of industries. This government-backed program enables all levels of Australian society to work together to protect the environment.
Climate Active certification makes it easier for consumers to make a conscious decision to identify and choose certified electricity and other products that are making a difference.
Carbon offsetting is one means by which a product may become carbon neutral. Going carbon neutral means taking action to reduce and offset greenhouse gas emissions (including carbon dioxide in the atmosphere), so that the net emissions associated with an activity are equal to zero.
For an electricity product, it involves taking action, including purchasing eligible carbon offset units, to cover greenhouse gas emissions associated with the generation and delivery of the product. This means you can compensate for a tonne of CO2 emitted by a product by ensuring there is one less tonne in the atmosphere.
We purchase and retire eligible carbon offset units to cover the carbon emissions associated with the generation and delivery of electricity supplied to our customers' household or business for those that opt-in. We also cover the carbon emitted as a result of our own business' everyday activities, such as travel, power usage, etc.
Carbon offsets are units or 'credits' that represent reductions or removals of greenhouse gas emissions from the atmosphere.
An eligible carbon offset unit may be created by undertaking certain projects, which have the effect of removing greenhouse gas from the environment. Each eligible carbon offset unit represents the removal of one tonne of carbon dioxide equivalent (tCO2-e) from the environment.
We employ a rigorous selection process when it comes to the eligible carbon offsets we purchase. The eligible carbon offsets meet the integrity requirements under the Climate Active Carbon Neutral Standard to ensure they represent genuine abatement. There are many different offset methodologies; some examples include reforestation, renewable energy or energy efficiency projects that generate eligible carbon offsets. Many of these projects also provide other positive environmental or social benefits.
We have purchased eligible carbon offset units from accredited projects, including Australian carbon credit units (ACCUs) and Gold Standard Verified Emissions Reductions (GSVERs).
You can find more information on the types of eligible carbon offsets and the projects we invest in by reading our public disclosure statement.
Eligible carbon offset units are purchased from domestic and international carbon markets and then retired. It's important to retire offsets to ensure that the emissions reduction they represent is not double counted. Double counting refers to the same single greenhouse gas emission reduction or removal being counted more than once to show compliance with mitigation targets (possibly across different regulations).
When you opt-in to Carbon Neutral certified electricity, you're helping to invest in projects that reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. These projects may involve initiatives such as restoring forests, developing clean cookstove technology, fire management, updating or creating new renewable energy infrastructure such as solar and wind farms, landfill gas (methane) or carbon capture.
We'll keep you up to date on the projects from time to time via email, or you can visit AGL Discover at any time to find out more.
As Australia's largest and oldest integrated electricity generator and retailer, we play a vital role in Australia's energy market and the wider transition.
AGL's Climate Statement is the next step in our decarbonisation journey, and commits AGL to action in five areas to further evolve our energy transition plans:
- Offer customers the option of carbon neutrality across our electricity, gas and telco plans
- Support the evolution of Australia's voluntary carbon markets
- Continue investing in new sources of electricity supply
- Responsibly transition our energy portfolio
- Be transparent.
We are already on the path to achieving our target of net zero emissions by 2050, and our five commitments will ensure we responsively and responsibly harness the power of our customers, community and technology to get there.
For small business customers, you can add Carbon Neutral to your electricity plan for only $4 a week (GST incl.).
You can add Carbon Neutral to any of our business electricity plans, including our solar plans.
No, not at this stage. At the moment, we are only offering Carbon Neutral on our electricity plans.
If you move premises and connect with AGL there, you will need to add carbon neutral certified electricity at the new premise. It's quick and easy to set up, you can do it online or by speaking with one of our specialised business agents over the phone.
Within 10 business days of opting into Carbon Neutral.
You'll need to contact us to opt out at 133 835.
No, it'll carry over from your existing plan if you move to another AGL plan (unless you move premises).
Although contributions will start within 10 business days of opting in, they might not show on your bill for up to 6 weeks.
Think of Carbon Neutral as the same electricity that you buy today, except the key difference is we reduce and offset the emissions associated with the generation and supply of electricity delivered to your home.
Green Energy is another green and sustainable option available for AGL customers, where customers nominate a portion of their household electricity consumption and AGL sources the equivalent portion from renewable energy sources. The cost of Green Energy varies depending on the amount you choose and how much electricity you use. Learn more about Green Energy.
Do you have more questions?
You can contact us by email or chat, or call us on 133 835.

subset: commoncrawl


text: Catch some Z's with our fun Cheetah eye mask! Total darkness is essential to deep, beneficial sleep, according to sleep experts, and our Cheetah eye mask delivers with great style! With dark spots on a light Tan ground, simply handling this ultra-soft fur promises to slow breathing and lower the pulse! Velvet-lined and with a stretchy elastic band to keep it comfortably in place, join us in wearing a Cheetah sleep mask not just for air travel, but nightly for deep, relaxing slumber.


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The momentum behind the ban the bottled water movement is an environmental one. But there is another side to this coin, the health one. In a time when we are using our cars as dining rooms and consuming more fast food than ever before, restaurants are being encouraged to offer healthier options. Salads, yogurt, fruit and water are now alongside burgers, fries and cola.
It should be noted that TD sponsored water jockeys to wander the fairgrounds with backpacks filled with water that was trucked in so they could top up festival goers who brought bottles from home. Oh, and if you didn't bring a bottle, you could buy one on site (to bring home and stuff in your cupboard with the dozen or so other water bottles you may already have.)
While I agree we should be encouraged to drink water that is free instead of buying the bottles, I'm not so certain that banning the sale of water in public places is the answer.
In 2009, the Federation of Canadian Municipalities asked its membership to ban the sale of bottled water at civic facilities. That would mean a ban at park concessions, rec centres and civic offices.
The argument that is consistently raised is that we are using plastics to bottle something that is readily available and is free. Well, if you look at the photo of the water fountain above, you'll note that the free water is not always readily available. Try taking a run around Vancouver's gorgeous waterfront in the spring or fall and you'll quickly find the faucets are turned off.
Can you imagine being a tourist out for a long day's walking and not be able to grab a bottle of water to take with you on your walk?
To see the other side of the debate, and try to have a greater understanding of the issue the CFMF and FCM were trying to fight, I recently watched the documentary Tapped.
The film makes 3 main arguments, none of them convinced me that the sale of bottled water should be banned.
1. They accused the companies, specifically Nestle, for accessing community groundwater and syphoning it off without proper compensation to the communities. Groundwater isn't properly regulated, so the loopholes are there for the companies to swim through. If the abuses are so gross, then the civic governments need to have better resource management regulations.
2. They accused the manufacture of the plastics used for the bottles as a major health risk for people living near the plants, specifically in Corpus Christi, Texas. If the plants were only making bottles for water, then perhaps the argument would hold water. Considering these same bottles are used for everything from iced tea to colas to juice, the argument carries less weight. Banning the sale of bottled water won't close these plants down, there's plenty of demand for plastic containers.
That problem isn't as rampant in Canada. We have comprehensive recycling programs in many of our cities. I always joke that it's easy to spot a Canadian in the US – we're the one walking the entire day with an empty bottle in our hand looking for a blue bin to recycle it.
Bottled water is a healthy, convenient, portable option. If you ban the sale of bottled water, the portable, convenient refreshment will be cola. The recycling programs still won't be in effect, and so the trash will still exist. The plastics will be needed for these bottles, so the manufacturing plants will still exist.
Banning bottled water doesn't solve the problem. Education does.
People say bottled water tastes better for the same reason Coors Light tastes good: it's cold. It's crisp. It's fresh. Water fountains or tap water aren't as crisp or cold as the bottle that you pull from the fridge. If you fill a Nalgene with tap water and toss it in the fridge overnight, you'll notice the difference in taste immediately. Same thing with the Brita fridge filters: the water tastes better because it's colder.
My behaviour has changed with shopping bags. I now have a handful of reusable ones in my trunk and pantry that I take grocery shopping. I've removed that plastic from my consumer cycle and perhaps one day the reusable bottle will be a habit as well.
I applaud the CFMF for not just taking a step, but providing an alternative. That said, if they were truly concerned about the environment, then bulk serving of all refreshments would have been done on site. I mean, if I can use my Nalgene for water, I can use it for beer, coke or ice tea too, right? Bulk fountain stations would have entirely removed single-serving bottled plastics from the system.
The CFMF continued the eco-crusade beyond the bottle by requiring compostble cutlery and reusable plates from the vendors.
But you can see the slippery slope we start sliding down: soon enough we'll all be hiring sherpas to carry our reusable eating gear just for a trip to the park.
Education needs to be the first step, banning sale is the last step – not the other way round. For now the bottled water movement is saying "Let them drink Coke" and that solves nothing.
Dad. Broadcaster. Writer.
Three time Guinness World Record Holder.
I run the world for Team Diabetes.


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He is only 27 years old, yet Edward C. has already faced more challenges than many people do in a lifetime. You can see it in his eyes.
But that is not the first thing you notice: at 6-feet-4-inches tall, you are immediately struck by his presence.
With his broad shoulders and close-cropped hair, Edward looks every bit the Marine he once was. But the years he spent in the Marine Corps took their toll. A bomb blast in Iraq left him with a traumatic brain injury.
Then, he had to contend with several personal tragedies: in a single month, Edward lost three people who were very close to him, including his father.
Overwhelmed, Edward struggled with anxiety and depression. As his symptoms worsened, he turned to drugs and alcohol to numb the pain. Suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in addition to his brain injury, Edward was unable to maintain stable housing. He then got into trouble with the law and was arrested for disorderly conduct.
"In a funny way, that's the best thing that could have happened to me," he reflects. After being placed on probation, Edward then connected with Pine Street, and moved into Pine Street's veterans home in Dorchester. Kathy Conley, a longtime employee who directs Pine Street's veterans programs, remembers Edward as reserved and distant when he first joined the program. "Once he embraced the support that was being offered, he began to soften and interact more with staff and the other veterans, many of whom were facing similar challenges," she notes.
Along the way, Edward started taking college courses and volunteering at the Franklin Park Zoo. He also rescued Evander, an energetic puppy, training him as a service dog to help with his PTSD. Pine Street staff helped Edward apply for a rental voucher, search for apartments and finally move into a place of his own in September.
Edward reflects that he now has much to be grateful for. In addition to having his own place to live, he is a full-time student at UMass Boston, majoring in biology, and expects to graduate next fall. He also volunteers with Pets for Vets, an organization that trains service animals for veterans.
Most of all, Edward says, he is grateful for the support he found at Pine Street Inn. "What Pine Street does is so important. The services they provide help change people's lives," he notes. "If I could personally talk to Pine Street supporters, I would say one thing: 'Thank you!'"


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When you need a quality locksmith in Waco, TX, call Your Key Locksmith and we'll be right there. You never know when you'll have a need for a locksmith, no matter how well you think ahead, so Your Key Locksmith has a staff of experts ready to get your needs handled at a cost you can live with. If something unforeseen happens to you in Waco, TX and you have to have a locksmith, call us right now at 800-306-2477.
We all strive to be ready for whatever life throws at us, but sometimes something as trivial as locking our keys in the car can really ruin everything. Your Key Locksmith will take care of things for you with just a brief phone call. We offer a complete selection of locksmith services to be sure you can come back quickly from whatever curve ball life has thrown your way.
Perhaps your Waco, TX residence or office could benefit from new locks, or perhaps you just closed the trunk on your groceries ' and it looks like your car keys as well. Your Key Locksmith offers a speedy answer time, so your problem will be handled rapidly, well, and at a affordable rate. This level of customer service is why we are a front runner for the Waco area, and all around the state of Texas.
Your Key Locksmith is ready to serve you, regardless of what type of locksmith service you need for your Waco home, office, or car. Our crew of friendly, expert locksmiths will answer your call, address your issues and get the job done fast. When it comes to qualified locksmith services, there is no reason to search anywhere else. You can be certain you're getting our best efforts at a great rate with our unparalleled standards of excellence and attention to detail, because your protection and satisfaction are our top priority.
You don't need to concern yourself or your family about your Waco residence, office or automobile's security. One call and all of your locksmith needs can be handled. If you live in Waco, TX and require qualified locksmith services from a staff of dependable experts, call Your Key Locksmith right now, at 800-306-2477.
At some point in life, nearly all Waco, Texas home and business owners can benefit from the services a locksmith has to offer. You should do some substantial homework to find a locksmith throughout Waco, TX to make certain you get the best value for your money. At Your Key Locksmith, we recommend that you analyze the Waco company's pricing, experience and how quickly they take care of your needs. Call our locksmith company in Waco at 800-306-2477 for a free estimate and to find out how we can assist.
We have a crew of experienced and highly-trained locksmiths at Your Key Locksmith. Our locksmiths have served the industry for many years, if not decades, and they receive regular training. The combination of their training and experience is what enables our company to ensure that we are able to assist both residential and commercial customers with all of their lock-related problems within the Waco, TX region.
Our locksmith company within Waco, TX also offers the most affordable prices. We do this since we understand that you probably do not want to spend a lot of money regardless of what your needs are. In fact, a lot of customers have informed us that we actually saved them money in comparison to what they would have spent trying to complete the task themselves.
We also show up at your Waco, TX house or business in the quickest manner as we think that this should be a standard customer service practice when you have asked for our assistance. Additionally, we work in the most effective manner to make certain that you can get on with your other daily plans.
Nothing is more satisfying than seeing satisfied customers telling their friends and family in Waco, TX about how great we treat clients at Your Key Locksmith. However, it takes a lot of experience and unsurpassed customer service to have the capability to assist just one person with their needs. We consider ourselves very lucky to have the caring and experienced locksmiths we do since they have made offering a higher level of customer service a lot simpler. To discover how we can help with all of your lock-related needs, call our locksmiths at 800-306-2477 immediately.


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by Finian Cunningham
Writer, Dandelion Salad
East Africa
Crossposted from PressTV
April 26, 2014
Image by Infinite Ache via Flickr
Workers in Western countries are now paid so badly that businesses are reportedly finding it profitable to return from China – having relocated to Asia in the first place to exploit cheap labor there.
It is an astounding indictment of how capitalism has created a global race to the bottom of misery for workers – yet the Western corporate news media actively conceal this abomination.
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Many women experience breast tenderness before their periods, but breast pain that lasts longer than a few days can disrupt a woman's life. The doctors at The Women's Health Center in Fountain Valley, California, treat women from throughout Orange County and the Greater Los Angeles area who suffer from painful breasts.
Breast pain is typically classified as cyclic or noncyclic. Cyclic breast pain is typically related to the menstrual cycle and is often described as feeling dull, heavy, or achy. Cyclic breast pain is sometimes accompanied by swelling. It affects both breasts at the same time and intensifies as the beginning of the period approaches. Noncyclic breast pain is unrelated to the menstrual cycle and is described as a tight or burning pain. Noncyclic breast pain is usually localized to one breast and can occur intermittently or constantly. Sometimes the breasts can be sore due to an injury or pain elsewhere in the body. For example, a pulled muscle in the chest or shoulder may cause pain that radiates into the breast.
There are a number of causes for breast pain. Cyclic breast pain has strong links to hormone fluctuations and the menstrual cycle. The structure of the breast can also contribute to breast pain, for example, if changes in the milk ducts or glands result in cysts. Certain medications such as fertility treatments or birth control can cause breast pain. It is also associated with certain antidepressants. Women with large breasts may experience noncyclic breast pain as will women who have had breast surgery with scar formation.
If you experience breast pain for more than a couple of weeks or occurs in a specific area of the breast, you should talk to your doctor about the pain. Also, if the pain seems to be getting worse or increasing, or interferes with your day to day activities, you should seek medical assessment. While breast pain is not a common symptom of breast cancer, it is much better to seek medical diagnosis and treatment. The doctors at The Women's Health Center take women's wellbeing very seriously and aim to help each and every one of their patients to live healthy and active lives.
"Follow up is always fast and over 17 years, I have not ever experienced anything but friendliness, compassion, and caring from everyone there."
"Been going here for over 15 years. Never had a bad experience. The doctors have all been compassionate and helpful."
"I really like this place! I came here before I got pregnant and now I keep it as my primary care during my pregnancy. I would recommend The Women's Health Center."
"I went here for my pregnancy and received very good care. Doctors and Nurse Practitioners are highly professional and nice. I would highly recommend this practice."
"The staff was always very kind, friendly and helpful and, best of all, I seldom had to wait very long for my appointments."
"I have been a patient in this office for 5 years and during that time I have had the opportunity to consult with 3 of the doctors--all of them were wonderful."
"Dr. Nguyen is amazing and the hubby and I are so thankful I have her as my OB. I can say that she is extremely genuine and caring and it makes everything better."
"You can trust Dr. Nguyen when you have any concerns or questions during pregnancy. What I love about her is that I didn't feel rushed."
"I was so happy when I found out I was having twins this year cause I knew she was gonna be my doctor! She takes her time with her patients and is so smart and kind."
"Dr. Nguyen herself is very knowledgeable, very very informative, answers all my questions (small and big), so reliable, and had a great personality."
"Dr. Tracy never failed to be honest, discuss risks with us. She is also such a genuine and caring person and doctor."
"I've been following Dr. Tracy for over 14 years. She is an excellent OBGYN who has performed 3 of my C-sections."
"Dr. Tracy is extremely knowledgable and thorough. She is able to answer all my questions. I can definitely trust her with my life. I recommend her."
"I honestly feel that Dr. Tracy is like an old friend--we get to catch up once or twice a year. I feel comfortable talking to her about anything."
"My last pregnancy was amazing with no complications and Dr. Tracy was great!!"
"She is so calm and caring. I loved being able to be 100% myself when I had an appointment with her."


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I consider the macaron to be the supermodel of cookies. The first time I had one was at Miette Pâtisserie, in San Francisco. We were staying right across the street and happened to discover Miette while walking through SF's Ferry Building. I ended up eating an obscene amount of macarons on that trip. Although delightful to eat, these little devil cookies took a lot of effort to prepare at home. At one point we were ready to throw in the towel, thinking the cookies were going to be horribly disfigured. Luckily, it all seemed to work itself out through the baking process.
Making macarons seemed like a two person job. Dustin made the frosting while I worked on the cookies. This was our first time making frosting with raw eggs, so we really didn't want to mess that up. Watching the eggs and sugar thicken in our mixer was amazing. They changed from an odd light brown translucent color to a fluffy white bowl of delightfulness.
Everything is so precise with baking. I used the imprints of a miniature cup dipped in flour for a size reference when squeezing the batter out of a pastry bag.
We learned a lot about what not to do while making macarons, but even after our two mini-meltdowns, and almost starting over, they ultimately looked pretty good. The texture seems more fluffy than store bought macarons, and they just melt in your mouth. Next time we'll be a little more generous with our all-natural food coloring in the hopes that we can get the cake and frosting colors to match. Even though the recipe isn't easy, I think most people would have a good chance of coming out with a delicious product that doesn't look half bad.
- Swiss Meringue Buttercream
- 4 large egg whites
- 3 sticks (1-1/2 cups) unsalted butter, room temperature, cut into tablespoons
- 1-1/4 cups sugar
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- Macaroons
- 1-3/4 cup confectioner
- 1/4 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- all-purpose flour, for dipping
- 1-1/2 cups (4 ounces) sliced almonds, finely ground, or almond flour
- 3 large eggs
- Pinch of salt
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 recipe Swiss Meringue Buttercream (increase vanilla to 2-1/2 teaspoons)
French Almond Macaroons
Preheat oven to 300 degrees F. Sift confectioners' sugar into a bowl. Whisk in ground almonds; set aside. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or nonstick baking mats (such as Silpats), and mark circles using a 1-1/2-inch cookie cutter dipped in flour.
In the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the whisk attachment beat egg whites on medium speed until foamy; add salt. Gradually add granulated sugar 1 teaspoon at a time, until the whites reach medium-soft peaks. Transfer to a large bowl.
Sprinkle half of the sugar-almond mixture over the egg-white mixture. Using a large rubber spatula fold until just incorporated. Add 1/4 teaspoon vanilla and remaining sugar-almond mixture, folding until just incorporated. Firmly tap the bottom of the bowl on a counter or work surface to eliminate any air pockets.
Transfer mixture to a large pastry bag fitted with a 1/2-inch plain tip (such as an Ateco #806). Pipe mixture into marked circles on prepared baking sheet.
Bake, rotating sheets halfway through, until macaroons feel slightly firm to the touch and can be gently lifted off the parchment (the bottoms will be dry), 20 to 25 minutes. Let cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes, then transfer parchment and macaroons to a wire rack to cool completely. Using a small offset spatula, carefully remove macaroons from parchment. Spread 2 teaspoons buttercream on the flat sides of the half of macaroons; sandwich with the other halves, keeping flat sides down. Refrigerate until firm, about 20 minutes, before serving. Filled cookies can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Strawberry Macaroons Variation
Follow instructions for French Almond Macaroons, adding 4 drops of red food coloring to the egg whites just before you add the sugar-almond mixture (batter will be pink). For the filling, do not increase vanilla, and fold 1/3 cup strained strawberry preserves (3-1/2 ounces) into Swiss Meringue Buttercream after butter has been incorporated. Proceed with the recipe.
Chocolate Macaroons Variation
Follow instructions for French Almond Macaroons, sifting 2 tablespoons Dutch-process coca powder with the confectioners' sugar. For the filling, place 5 ounces finely chopped semisweet chocolate in a bowl. In a small saucepan, heat 1/2 cup heavy cream until it just starts to simmer; pour over chocolate. Let sit for 1 minute; stir until melted. Let ganache stand at room temperature until thick enough to spread. Proceed with the recipe.
Swiss Meringue Buttercream
In the heatproof bowl of an electric mixer set over a saucepan of simmering water, combine the egg whites and sugar. Cook, whisking constantly, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is warm to the touch (about 160ºF).
Attach the bowl to the mixer fitted with the whisk attachment. Beat the egg-white mixture on high speed until it holds stiff (but not dry) peaks. Continue beating until the mixture is fluffy and cooled, about 6 minutes.
Switch to the paddle attachment. With the mixer on medium-low speed, add the butter several tablespoons at a time, beating well after each addition. (If the frosting appears to separate after all the butter has been added, beat on medium-high speed until smooth again, 3 to 5 minutes more.) Beat in vanilla. Beat on lowest speed to eliminate any air bubbles, about 2 minutes. Stir with a rubber spatula until frosting is smooth.
The Recipe is all Martha


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Take a look inside Redwell Brewery's new taproom bar in Norwich
PUBLISHED: 08:21 25 August 2018 | UPDATED: 12:13 25 August 2018
Raise your glasses as Redwell Brewery has opened a permanent taproom bar complete with 10 beers on tap.
The new bar will give customers the chance to 'drink beer direct from source' every Friday to Sunday and there will also be pop-up food nights.
The design also includes a converted railway arch called The Beer Vault which will be used for brewery tours, tastings and private events.
The brewery, located under the Trowse bridge, first opened in 2013 and came under new ownership in 2017.
One of the new shareholders and retired architect, Jon Neville-Jones spent a lot of time with production staff so that he could design and create a way that a permanent taproom would work well in a production brewery.
READ MORE: Wetherspoon to ban dogs from all its pubs
Amy Hancock, Marketing and Events Manager at Redwell Brewery, said: "There is something special about drinking beer direct from source, sitting amongst stainless steel tanks full of beer.
"We keg off beer from our fermentation vessels and transfer it straight into our new temperature controlled cold room, ready to serve.
"Not only is the taproom used for the community but also acts as a tasting room and a way to showcase our beers for trade sales.
READ MORE: Take a look inside Norwich's newest nightclub Popworld following £500k investment
"We love inviting the community into the brewery every weekend and it's been important to achieve the balance of having a taproom and event space in a busy production brewery."
The new taproom is open Friday 5pm to 10pm, Saturday 12pm to 10pm and on Sunday and Bank Holiday Monday from 12pm to 8pm.
Every Friday and Saturday Norwich Market's Brick Pizza will be serving food and over the Bank Holiday there will also be pop-ups from Nomadi Wood Fired Kitchen and The Station Smokehouse in Wroxham.
If you value what this story gives you, please consider supporting the Norwich Evening News. Click the link in the orange box above for details.


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I'm still convinced that Tom Hanks is the light that shines in this eerie world; the man is pure joy. A delightful screen presence who can do no wrong no matter what the script, Hanks has been a favourite for many years, and now he's back on our screens with frequent collaborator Steven Spielberg in the historical drama The Post. As such, it's time to take a look at the man's best work. Condensing it to five is no easy feat…
Honourable Mentions: Apollo 13, The Green Mile, Sleepless in Seattle, A League of Their Own, Cast Away, and as good as it may be, we're gonna leave Forrest Gump in the honourable mentions because there are just far more interesting films to talk about.
Saving Private Ryan (1998)
Kicking us off is the first Hanks/Spielberg combination that to this day is still regarded as one of the greatest war films of all time. Saving Private Ryan famously starts with an exhilarating and breathtaking sequence on Omaha beach and though there are many who think the films loses steam once this scene is over, especially considering it's extended run time, but what follows is very much an emotional and reflective experience with an exceptional leading performance from Hanks. And hey, it's a hell of a lot better than Shakespeare in Love…
The Toy Story Trilogy (1995 – 2010)
Up next is one of the most beloved franchises of all time; the first two Toy Story films are among the best animated films ever made, offering a beautiful presentation of the heights of imagination that come with being a child. Hanks and Tim Allen are simply unforgettable in their voice roles as Woody and Buzz, with a great supporting cast behind them. The films are hilarious, heartbreaking – The second one in particular and full of wonder, and though the third instalment doesn't quite live up to it's predecessors, it's a worthy entry at least.
Catch Me If You Can (2002)
Is it controversial these days to say that this is the best Spielberg movie? The pair's second collaboration was a biopic of con artist Frank Abagnale Jr. (Leonardo Dicpario) and the FBI agent desperate to catch him (Hanks), and if it's not his best, it's easily in the top five. Catch Me If You Can is slick and stylish but also endearing and one of the most interesting biopics made. A sharp screenplay, excellent direction and while Hanks is good in his supporting role, this is Dicpario's show all over. Of all the Oscar nominations he got and didn't win, I'm still astounded that he wasn't even nominated here for what is easily his best performance.
Big (1988)
Now, it's time for some pure joy; Penny Marshall's 1988 hit told the story of Josh Baskin, a young boy dismayed at his height who makes a wish on an eerie carnival machine and, low and behold, he wakes up the next day as a fully grown Tom Hanks, which I'm sure is a dream for absolutely everyone but sadly just not achievable in our stupid real world. Now an adult, Josh takes his childlike wonder to a grown up life, and it's one of the best feel good films ever made. Hanks is terrific in his first Oscar nominated role, perfectly capturing the essence of a child plunged into a mature world, and while some have pointed out the darker implications of the film's events, it's impossible to describe many of this film's most famous moments as pure glee.
Philadelphia (1993)
Let's be clear on something, I have no issues with Forrest Gump; in the years following his success, many have changed their minds on the 1994 Best Picture winner and it's now a fairly hated film among many. Whilst I could never agree it's a bad film, I could also never agree that it's his best. Many lists charting Hanks' top films usually have Forrest right at the top, but I'd say it was the film that earned Hanks his first Oscar that should be in that spot. In 1993, the late great Jonathan Demme brought us a spectacular film in Philadelphia, the story of a gay lawyer discriminated against by his superiors when he contracts AIDS, and his legal fight against them to prove they sabotaged him in light of it. Philadelphia was among the first films to draw attention to AIDS and homophobia, and to this day I insist it should be played in schools on the subject of discrimination. It is a beautiful though heartbreaking film featuring what is easily the best performance Hanks' career, and as far as I'm concerned, one of the best in film history. The scene in which he translates opera to his lawyer is overwhelming; much like the film as a whole, it's crushing and enticing, and Hanks is on another level entirely. If you haven't already, make sure you check this one out.
What are your favourites?
The Post is out now!


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Dear Soup Peddler Matzoh Ball Soup,
I am about to request something huge and difficult from you. This has been a hard day. The computer system at work crashed for over an hour, I stepped in dog poo, and some stupid confused young dude from Chase Bank called me about a business certificate application I hadn't made. (Should I worry about identity theft, I asked? Only if I call you back tomorrow, he replied.)
Also, Logan's been working out of town for ten days now and the cats yowl their lonely displeasure at me whenever it occurs to them that he's gone. Thanks for the reminder, cats. Like I hadn't noticed every second of every day.
So, matzoh ball soup, can you make it all better for a little while? I can offer you some friendly backup in the form of a sprinkling of Erin and Nat's home-grown cilantro and a glass of nero d'avola. I'm hoping between the three of you, you'll be able to civilize this red-eyed she-beast who bit the head off of her poor suffering husband from 1,400 miles away.
(Sorry, Husbear. I wish you were here to share a bowl of soup with me.)


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Phone number: 02 4645 4000
Email: firstname.lastname@example.com
Website: www.campbelltown.nsw.gov.au
The NSW Government has pool safety compliance laws in place, aimed at reducing the incidence of children drowning in backyard pools.
Information on swimming pool safety and swimming pool fences and requirements.
Information on swimming pool safety.
Information on swimming pool water quality and Cryptosporidium.
The answers to your frequently asked questions about swimming pool safety, swimming pool fences, spa pools and pool water quality.
Information on swimming pool barrier inspection program.
Requirements and information for owners preparing to sell or lease their property with a swimming pool or spa pool.


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Earl of Sandwich
Jun 06
Hear ye, hear ye, Sandwich Lovers of Central Florida: Earl of Sandwich has officially opened at 5000 4th Street North in the Royal Palms Center, St. Petersburg, Florida. This fulfills a dream I once had, back when I had my first EOS experience at Planet Hollywood many moons ago in Las Vegas.
On June 3, 2014, I was invited to enjoy the grand opening ceremony. Steve Heeley, President & CEO of Earl of Sandwich USA, David Crabtree, President & CEO of Planet Hollywood Group of Companies, Mayor Rick Kriseman, Deputy Mayor Kanika Tomalin and others came out to celebrate.
After all of the speeches and fanfare, we were invited into the supremely clean and modern restaurant.
For our eating pleasure, we were offered several hot sandwich options, (this is, after all, the home of the World's Greatest Hot Sandwich® !) wraps, salads, and desserts.
I was going to act like a pro and just have a few little bites; that strategy came to a screeching halt when I came in contact with The Earl's Club. I seriously could not stop eating that delicious sandwich. An honorable mention should also go to the Chipotle Chicken Avocado – with bacon, cheddar, and lettuce, this hot sandwich was fresh quality goodness.
Everything at Earl of Sandwich is hand-crafted and made fresh daily. A standout for me is the artisan bread; quality bread is the foundation of any top-notch sandwich, and EOS has found the perfect recipe. The bread is sent through a special oven, baked to perfection, and served hot. I was excited to learn that they also serve breakfast and dinner items; I sincerely have my eyes on the pizza bread and baked potatoes.
The crowd was definitely not my kind of people, as I am used to being around much more laid back and friendly types. Luckily for you, and for me, the fine folks serving the food were fantastic, and that is all that really matters when assessing a restaurant.
I shall now be able to grab my favorite, the Tuna Melt, whenever the mood strikes me.
Welcome to the neighborhood, Earl of Sandwich.
Disclaimer: I was invited to the grand opening and provided with food in exchange for a review. All opinions are my own. Photos courtesy of Earl of Sandwich.


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RAF Cardington Camp
Shown left are two of the first Station Commanders - both men were highly decorated individuals. More details of these exceptional men can be found below.
From 1936 through to 1993 there were no less than 31 Station Commanders at RAF Cardington. Undoubtedly they would have been located in the "Station Headquarters" building (still referred to as The Shorts Building by locals today). What is not known is where they lived in the early years - can anyone tell us? Certainly in the later years some were lodged across the road in Shortstown in houses that have since been demolished. Below is a full list of all the commanders who were in charge of the Station followed by further details of some of these individuals. It is hoped to expand this section to include details of all the commanders so if you have information about any of these men please get in touch.
Grp Captain A A B Thomson. Commander in 1936..
Grp Captain G W Murlis Green
Double click to insert body text here ...
Gp Captain A A Thomson MC, AFC
Gp Captain G W Murlis Green DSO, MC
Gp Captain A R Arnold DSO, DFC
Gp Captain H E Walker MC, DFC
Gp Captain R B Councell OBE
Gp Captain J Bradbury DFC
Gp Captain J L F Fuller Good
Gp Captain R A McMurtrie DSO, DFC
Gp Captain S H C Gray OBE
Gp Captain W H N Turner DFC
Gp Captain W A Satchell DSO
Gp Captain C R Lousada
Gp Captain J H Kentish DFC
Gp Captain G H Robinson DFC
Wg Cdr P H Waterkeyn OBE, DFC
Wg Cdr A R Scott DFC
Sqn Ldr T M Gettings
Wg Cdr A J Douch
Wg Cdr J Lee OBE
Wg Cdr F C Airey MBE
Wg Cdr G D Cooper MBE
Wg Cdr E W Lamb MVO
Wg Cdr D A R Matthews
Wg Cdr P Taylor OBE
Wg Cdr A R Murray
Wg Cdr D C Deeble
Wg Cdr V E G Patten
Wg Cdr J A Rowlands
Wg Cdr P Jenkins
Wg Cdr B E Dunford MBE
Wg Cdr R M Webster
As can be seen most were appointed for relatively short periods of time the exception being Gp Capt A R Arnold who served as Station Commander for most of WWII when RAF Cardington took on many large scale operations.
Born in India in 1895 he joined the RFC at a very early age and learned to fly at 17. In 1915 he was a Flight Commander and was awarded a Military Cross for conspicuous gallantary. His citation reads as follows:
"For conspicuous gallantry and determination on 29th Aug 1915, near Neuve Chapelle. When ranging a heavy gun on the German trenches he stayed up over two hours in heavy rain with clouds at about 500 feet. At one time he found himself in a cloud on the far side of the German trenches, but after coming back under heavy fire he continued to observe with the greatest of bravery and skill only returning when too dark for more work. His gallant conduct resulted in ten direct hits on the
Gp Capt A A Thomson MC. AFC
When I first began researching into the background of some of the known individuals who served on the camp I was amazed to see the calibre of the men who were chosen to oversee the station. The first man to take charge of RAF Cardington when it was created in 1936 was Group Captain Arthur Ashford Benjamin Thomson who stayed until Feb 1938. When this man arrived at Cardington he was already the holder of a Military Cross and Bar earned from a distinguished military career whilst serving in WW1.
enemy's parapet." A year later he was to be awarded another Military Cross (changed to a Bar when it was realised he already had one) for "Conspicuous gallantry and good work during Zeppelin raids." In 1938 he was promoted to Air Commodore and left Cardington in February the same year. Sadly he was killed in an accident in 1939, having just completed a test flight in a Wellington he was hit by the aircraft's propellor and died en route to hospital.
Gp Capt Gilbert Ware Murlis Green took charge of the station from 7th Feb 1938 until 8th Nov 1939. He began his career in the Army in WW1 but transferred to the RFC where he rapidly distinguished himself as a pilot and is credited with eight hits. His exploits in the war earned him a vast array of honors of which a small paragraph in this website hardly does justice. Below is a brief summary of honors awarded to this exceptional man.
Jan 1917. Military Cross "For conspicuous gallantry in action. He brought down two enemy machines on succesive days under adverse circumstances. He has displayed great dash and courage at every opportunity....."
June 1917. Distinguished Service Order "For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. He has set a magnificent example by his gallant conduct in attacking the enemy's aeroplanes when in superior numbers. He brought down three enemy machines within twenty four hours."
Jan 1918. Military Cross Second Bar "Whilst flying at night on patrol duty he encountered an enemy aeroplane, which he attacked with great determination and skill, and although there was very little light he succeeded in hitting one of the engines of the machine, which by reason of the damage was forced to come down in the sea off a South Coast port where two of the occupants of the machine were made prisoners."
Flying Ace Grp Capt G W Murlis Green - Station Commander 7.02.1938-8.11.1939 credited with eight hits in WW1
Grp Capt Murlis Green was also awarded a Serbian Order of the White Eagle (1917), a French Croix de Guerre (1917) and a Belgium Croix de Guerre (1919). In the short time he was Station Commander (1938-39) Cardington was begining to take in recruits and this man would surely have inspired the young men coming through. I have been unable to find out what happened to him after leaving Cardington in 1939 but according to Wikipedia he died aged 63 in 1958 so clearly he survived the Second World War. If anyone has further information please make contact.
A very fitting new street name for the new development in New Cardington. Arnold Way is named after Grp Cpt Anthony Arnold the longest serving Station CO at the station.
Grp Capt A R Arnold was the longest serving Station Commander at Cardington and steered the Station throughout the difficult years of WW11.
Anthony Rex Arnold was born on 26th August 1896 and served in the RNAS in WW1. He was promoted to Flight Lieutenant in December 1914 and in 1917 had five aerial victories between April and June whilst flying a Sopwith Triplane. During the war he was the recipient of a Distinguished Service Cross, a Belgian Croix de Guerre and a Distinguished Flying Cross.
Although there is very little data freely available about the Staff and Operations at RAF Cardington which makes research very difficult the name Grp Captain Arnold frequently appears in what little documentation there is. He certainly seemed to be very much a "hands on" Station Commander. Below is a recently acquired (Nov 2014) menu of a farewell dinner for him organised by civillian staff dated 19th March 1945 which perhaps reflects the level of esteem this man was held in.
The above menu was part of a programme for a "Dinner & Social Evening" held on 19th March 1945 to honour the retirement of Grp Captain Arnold.
Group Captain C R Lousada was the Station Commander between 1956 and 1959 . He was in charge of the Station when it was honoured with The Freedom of Bedford in 1959. According to newspaper reports at the time of the Freedom ceremony he was due to retire a month later on his 50th birthday in August 1959.
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Closeout. This stylish tunic features 3/4 tiered sleeves made in a vibrant colored print. Easy pullover style with scoop neck. Pair with jeans or tights - great day look for the office or running errands. 96% polyester and 4% spandex. Reg: $47.95 Sale: $32.13
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Colony site selection in bank swallows
Hjertaas, Dale G.
Degree LevelMasters
MetadataShow full item record
Bank Swallow colony site selection was studied on a 6,129 hectare area in the Qu'Appelle Valley near Fort Qu'Appelle, Saskatchewan. Comparison of 60 banks used by Bank Swallows with the 349 unused sites showed that taller, vertical, more recently excavated sites with sand or fine gravel soils and no obstructions in front of the bank were selected. Colony size, which ranged from 1 to 48 pair with a mean of 7.7 pair, was not significantly correlated with any bank character. Mean clutch size was 5.0. In successful nests 90.5% of eggs fledged. Probability of a nest surviving from laying through fledging was 63.4%. Nest success was only correlated with tunnel depth and date of initiation, although additional data suggest bank characters are also important. Tunnel nesting gives Bank Swallows significant advantages and forces clustering on a restricted habitat base. Suitable habitat is left vacant, however, indicating that Bank Swallows probably derive additional advantages from associating with conspecifics.


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10 Questions to Ask Before Paying for Add-On Tax Preparation Services
If you're one of the millions of taxpayers who use a paid software package from home or a professional tax preparer, how do you know if you're getting the best deal? When is "free" really free? And when does paying extra for services make sense? Here are 10 questions to consider when comparing pricing from one service to the next:1. Is the Cost of E-Filing Included in the Preparation or Package Price?
It's easy to get carried away with promotional pricing, but you always need to read the fine print. The new tax laws require some tax professionals to e-file returns, and e-filing can come at a premium, so ask ahead of time what the total cost will be to both prepare and file your return. Similarly, many retail tax preparation software packages charge one fee for the cost of the software and another to e-file. If you plan on e-filing your return, find out how much additional, if any, the service will cost you.
2. How Much Additional Cost is Associated with Preparing and Filing a State Return?
Most (though admittedly, not all) paid tax preparers will quote you a fee that includes federal and state returns, but be sure to confirm this is the case. In contrast, most tax preparation software packages tend not to include the cost of preparing and filing state returns; sometimes, this can be separately stated as one or more fees. No matter which option you choose, confirm the total price for preparing both the federal and state returns.
3. What About Multiple State Tax Returns?
If you live and work in two separate states or if you work in multiple states, you may need to prepare and file more than one state tax return. Some tax preparation software packages aren't capable of preparing returns for multiple states, so verify that adding another state return is possible and affordable. Additionally, in a handful of states (California and Oregon, for example), tax professionals must be licensed in order to prepare tax returns -- if you need this service, make sure your tax professional is able to do returns in more than one state.
4. Does the Package Include Preparing and Filing Local Tax Returns?
More cities and localities now require the preparation and filing of local returns to report not only earned income but, in some circumstances, unearned income such as dividends and interest. It's not unusual for local returns to be more confusing than federal returns. If you're required to file a local tax return, confirm that your tax preparation software or your tax professional is able to prepare the return. Not all cities and localities can accommodate e-file, but if yours does, find out how much extra you should expect to pay.
5. Is There a Cost to Review my Tax Return?
Most tax preparation software packages offer an abbreviated "error check" for free; a handful offer a review for a fee. A tax preparer should never charge to review your return for his or her own errors; however, if the review involves comparing information from your prior year return or offering tax planning advice for the coming tax year, the charge may be justified. Ask for details in advance if there's a fee for review.
6. What Exactly is Audit Insurance?
A number of tax preparers and an increasing number of tax software packages now offer variations on "audit insurance" or similar products, where they agree to provide some measure of support in the event of an audit. These programs vary widely. Some audit support packages are free and are included with the cost of preparing your return; others are "add-ons" that you purchase for an additional cost. Some make a representation that they'll pay any penalties and interest as a result of their error while others expressly state that they will not be responsible for any penalties and interest incurred because of their services. Finally, some packages offer extremely limited audit support (assisting with communication only), while others will agree to provide representation at audit, either for free or an additional fee; be aware that representation at audit may not be an option if the preparer is not allowed to represent taxpayers before the IRS. Ask for details before you commit to insurance; most tax professionals tend to be wary of paying additional fees for this service.
7. How Quickly Will I Get my Tax Refund?
The IRS estimates that your refund check will be issued within six weeks from the received date for paper returns or three weeks after the acknowledgment date for an e-filed return. If you e-file and use direct deposit, you should expect to receive your refund in eight to 10 days. Check with your tax preparer or tax software package to see whether your refund might be delayed due to their own processing requirements, such as sending returns in bulk once they hit certain targets; you should avoid paying "premium processing" fees to expedite filing. In most cases, unless you've been advised that there will be a delay, you should not have to pay to file your tax returns in a timely manner.
8. Are There Any Costs Associated with Getting my Tax Refund?
If you pay to e-file your return, there shouldn't be any additional cost to obtain your refund. If you want your refund faster than the IRS estimate of eight to 10 days using e-file and direct deposit, there will be a fee from your provider. This is because you're not getting your refund from the IRS any faster; there is no such thing as an "instant" or "24 hour" refund from IRS. Rather, the provider is advancing the funds to you in the form of a loan. Fees can range from a few dollars to 500% of the value of the refund. Don't be short-sighted. If you can wait a few days, you can save hundreds (or in some cases, thousands) of dollars in fees and interest. If you believe you can't wait those few days, pay attention to the applicable fees and interest rates carefully.
9. Is There a Cost to File an Extension?
If you can't file your tax return on time, you can always file an extension. The IRS doesn't charge a fee for filing an extension, but many preparers and software packages may, depending on the services provided. Some programs will calculate any tax due with the extension, since an extension only extends the time to file and not the time to pay. If you owe, you may need to make a payment with your extension; some additional fees may apply depending on how you pay (such as credit card payments).
10. Will the price go up after April 18?
Don't assume that the preparation price advertised on the storefront or website will stay the same for ever. In addition to the generic disclaimer you'll see stamped on many websites proclaiming "all prices are subject to change without notice," some preparers ramp up their fees after tax season is officially over. If you fail to file on time -- or if you've filed for an extension -- you may see your fees jump, and in some cases, double. Be sure and confirm the pricing remains the same if you plan on filing after Tax Day.
Free can be good, but it's not always better. Sometimes, it's definitely worth it to pay a little more, but you don't want to pay more than you have to. Be smart. Read the fine print and ask the right questions so tax season doesn't cost you any more than is necessary.


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In Store Products
Bird, Squirrel and Wildlife Food
We believe we have the freshest, cleanest and widest variety of bird and wildlife seed and food west of the Rockies! Among our offerings are shell-free options that offer less mess and won't sprout as well as bird seed that is squirrel-resistant.
- Black-oil Sunflower
- Sunflower Chips
- Nyjer Thistle
- Finch Mix
- White Proso Millet
- Whole & Shelled Peanuts
- Nut Mix (shelled tree nuts and peanuts)
- Cracked Corn
- Variety of Seed and Nut mixes including standard and premium blends
- Suets -5 brands with lots of variety including squirrel resistant suets
- Seed Cakes
- Seed Logs
- Seed Bells
- Dried Mealworms
- Live Mealworms
- Nectar Mix
Hummingbird Feeders & Supplies
Backyard Bird Shop is proud to offer unique and wide selection of hummingbird feeders including feeders made in the USA. Our hummingbird feeders include unique and beautiful recycled glass feeders in an array of stunning colors, traditional bottle feeders, easy-to-clean saucer feeders and more! We proudly carry:
- Hanging Hummingbird Feeders
- Window-Mount Hummingbird Feeders
- Hand-held Hummingbird Feeders
- Heated Hummingbird Feeders
- Nectar (always clear!)
- Hummingbird Nesting Materials
- Hummer Swings
- Ant Moats
- Bee Guards
- Rain Domes
- Cleaning Brushes designed for Hummingbird Feeders
Bird Houses & Nesting Materials
We offer bird houses built to Audubon Society's specifications for native birds and are well constructed with an easy-to-clean. Choose from traditional, rustic, artisan, and modern bird house designs that are fabricated from new or recycled cedar, hollowed-out logs or gourds, or recycled plastic.
We carry bird houses for:
- Chickadees
- Nuthatches
- Wrens
- Bluebirds
- Woodpeckers
- Swallows
- Owls
- Wood Ducks
We also carry Nesting Shelves for:
- American Robins
- House Finches
- Barn Swallows
And don't forget Nesting Materials!
- Pygora Goat Fleece – locally produced
- Hummer Helper Cage & Nesting Material
- Best Nest Builder
Mason Bee Supplies
- Houses
- Tubes, Tubes & Liners, Liners Natural Lake Bed Reeds
- Cocoons (seasonal)
- Release Chambers
- Books and Life Cycle Chart
Binoculars & Nature Cams
No one binocular is best for everyone. We carry standard, mid-sized, and compact binoculars that are fog- and water-proof. We also carry lightweight family-binoculars that can be used by children as young as 7 years old while still serving mom, dad, grandma or grandpa. Stop by our shop to find binoculars that suits your needs and your budget.
- Vortex Binoculars – Lifetime Warranty
- Opticron Binoculars – 5 Year Warranty
- Hawk-eye Nature Cam – Locally Developed
- BirdCam
- Lens Pens
Bird Feeders & Accessories
Our selection includes feeders crafted from wood, recycled plastic, metal, ceramic and more. Most of our bird feeders are US-made and many are locally-crafted. We have traditional, decorative, whimsical and unique designs sure to fit the bill or beak you are looking for.
- Tube Feeders & Accessories
- Hoppers, Fly-thru & Tray Feeders
- Gazebo & Artisan Feeders
- Fun, Whimsical and Unique
- Squirrel-Proof Feeders & Baffles
- Suet Cages, Tailboard Suet Feeders, Squirrel-proof Suet Feeders
- Seed Cake Cages
- Seed Log Feeders, Squirrel-proof Log Feeders
- Protective Rain Domes
- Assortment of Cleaning Brushes
Squirrel Feeders & Houses
You will go nuts over our selection of squirrel department! Most of our squirrel feeders and houses are US-made and many are locally-crafted. Your squirrels will be sure to entertain you whether you choose a traditional or whimsical design.
- Nut Boxes
- Jar Feeders
- Teeter-totters
- Squngee Squirrel Bungee
- Cobs-A-Twirl Feeder
- Chew-Resistant Feeders
- Hollowed-out Log Squirrel Houses
- Cedar Plank Squirrel Houses
Birdbaths, Fountains & Accessories
- Birdbaths made from Concrete, Glass, Ceramic, Metal and Food-Grade Plastic
- Styles include pedestal, hanging, or staked birdbaths
- Decorative and Simple Bubbler Kits
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Our Bat Houses are US-Made with many being designed and crafted right here in the Pacific Northwest. You'll find quality constructed bat houses in traditional, rustic, and artisan designs.
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Fine Arts & Music
Mrs. Nan Wood
2019 - 2020 St. Dominic School Fine Arts Program
During music class this year, one of my goals is to provide real-life application skills for each group of students.
For most grades, one of those real-life skills includes public speaking. When students perform in our annual Christmas or Veteran's Day program, or for our daily morning assemblies, or reading petitions at our weekly Mass or performing with our choir, or giving an oral report in the classroom, it is my goal for them to be able to sing or speak clearly, to be able to project their voices so everyone in the room can hear and understand each and every word.
We are working on this through, among other things, a series of public speaking tutorials from Toastmasters International. Students learn the best practices necessary to write a good speech and then deliver it effectively.
A prior goal was to acquire much - needed updated hymnals for our students to use at weekly Children's Masses. Through a very successful program, we have achieved this goal. Parishioners of St. Anthony Church and St. Dominic School families were invited to purchase hymnals in memory of a loved one or family member. As usual, they rose to the challenge and raised the funds necessary to purchase a new hymnal for all students. In return, there is a memorial label on the inside of each hymnal in whose name the book was purchased. This is a great reminder to our students to pray for those who have gone before us, as well as to demonstrate the importance of giving back. We are very grateful to all those who contributed. Their generosity has provided beautiful new songbooks to replace ones that we have used for over 20 years!!
In addition to acquiring public speaking skills, students will learn many new Praise and Worship songs for our weekly Masses, incorporating our new hymnals. We also focus on Music Theory, Music History, Famous Composers and Music Comprehension. Another popular addition this year will be Drumming. With the addition of a set of drumsticks for every student (thanks to a Magic Match donation), students will learn how to read rhythms and perform in different time meters. Each class accomplishes these activities through interactive SmartBoard lessons, games, listening exercises, and with the many resources that have been purchased through grants and our generous Magic Match supporters.
Private piano lessons are offered before and after school. 30 minute lessons, one lesson per week, take place in the computer lab with five electronic keyboards. Currently, all lesson times are filled, but you may contact Mrs. Wood to be placed on a waiting list if you are interested in enrolling your student email@example.com). You may also contact her if you would like more information about piano lessons.
Below are several of the grants that were used to purchase items for our music classroom
The KHQA "One Class At A Time" program is sponsored by KHQA TV, Continental Cement, Green America Recycling and Titan. These sponsors awarded St. Dominic School $1000.00 for new percussion instruments, new sheet music, interactive Smartboard music software, CD's, Music Express curriculum, and numerous teacher resources. We continue to use these instruments every week - they are very popular with the students!
Another grant was awarded from the Mary Ridder Cherny Fund through the Community Foundation of West Central Illinois and Northeast Missouri. $375.00 was given to St. Dominic School to design a Digital Keyboard lab. New keyboard stands, benches, sustain pedals, and piano and harp music has been purchased to be used with our six digital keyboards and harp. This has allowed many students to now take private lessons after school. Currently 21 students are enrolled in piano lessons. Parents pay $10.00 for a 30 minute lesson with Mrs. Nan Wood, the Music Instructor, but those funds are used to purchase materials for the music classroom. It is a win-win situation for our school families as well as our school.
The Mary Ridder Cherny Fund also granted funds to purchase Piano Marvel software. Our piano students use this software during their weekly piano lessons. With Piano Marvel, a digital keyboard is connected to a computer. Students play along with music that is projected onto the monitor, while musical accompaniment plays in the background. They complete each lesson to earn virtual trophies in an attempt to fill up their entire virtual trophy case.
Western Catholic Union (WCU) awarded St. Dominic School the "Classroom Assistance Program" grant of $250.00 to purchase a two-year subscription to Music K-8. This curriculum provides new music, CD's, student reproducibles, and teacher lesson plans. It incorporates hands-on teaching with Orff instruments as well as articles and lessons on famous composers, music history and music theory. All of their resources are correlated with state and national standards, and work well with the new instruments that were purchased with the KHQA "One Classroom At A Time" grant.
Mercantile Bank of Quincy awarded our music department a grant to purchase Music Express, one of the most respected music curriculum on the market (along with Music K-8). Students receive full-color music magazines with many musical activities, stories, games, instrumental activities and hands-on fun!
Another grant was provided by the Adams County Medical Alliance. With these funds, we purchased a large 12' parachute and musical CD's and games to use along with the parachute. This "healthy student" grant material allows students to be physically active during the school day while focusing on music. But all they know is they are having fun!
We also have had a very generous Magic Match sponsor, which has allowed us to purchase new music resources including Music K-8 Student music magazines, the Teacher Handbook and CD's that go along with the curriculum. We also purchased the very successful "Music Ace" Software program. Both are very nice additions to our music program.
The students of St. Dominic School now have many ways to showcase their musical talents, explore their creativity, learn how to speak and perform effectively, be physically active, and advance their musical knowledge and experiences. We are profoundly grateful to each of these organizations for their support, and proud of the way it has allowed us to make so many opportunities available for our students.
As you can see, we have many new, exciting additions to the music department. We are anxious to showcase all that our students can do with these new materials.
Mrs. Nan Wood
Music Instructor
email: email@example.com


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My colleague, Jon Quigley, Director, Multi-Disciplinary Simulation at Altair, submitted the following blog post.
The area of multiphysics has reached an inflection point in the CAE market. Customers are increasingly requesting solutions that span traditional single physics, and vendors are responding by providing multiphysics -capabilities. These typically come in two forms: sequential and co-simulation. Sequential involves a solver for a single physics producing results that can be manipulated in preparation for a second solver run of a different physics. An example could be using an FEA code to prepare a modal representation of a structure for further use by a CFD or MBD solver. Co-simulation applies when two or more solvers are performing a time-forward simulation and exchanging data along the way. One example is fluid-structure interaction (FSI), in which an FEA code solves the structural portion and a CFD code solves the fluid portion while they exchange data to properly capture the effects that each domain has on the other.
Physics that are commonly included in CAE are "3D" mesh-based physics, such as structures (linear, implicit, explicit), CFD, thermal (fluids & solids), electromagnetics, acoustics and chemical reactions, as well as "1D" equation-based physics, such as MBD, controls, hydraulics, and electronics. These can be combined to solve simulation needs from just about any industry. A few examples include FSI as applied to the offshore industry for oil riser design, co-simulation between controls and MBD for automotive dynamics, and electromagnetic and (fluid) thermal for circuit heat management.
As momentum gathers for this exciting area of CAE, related activities are beginning to occur, such as NAFEMS' first multiphysics conference, which took place in Frankfurt, Germany earlier this year. In addition, the use of "middleware" to create a neutral layer for solvers to communicate is expanding, allowing a solver from one company to communicate with third-party solvers or even to allow more than two solvers to be included in a co-simulation.
As multiphysics continues to move into the mainstream, we can expect to see CAE tools adapt accordingly. Whether it be pre-processors for ease of multiphysics model setup, solver enhancements for co-simulation robustness and multiphysics licensing, unified post-processing or use of optimization, there is sure to be growth in this market and the tools that support it.
- Thought Leader Thursday: Can Simulation Reach its Full Potential? - October 15, 2015
- Simulation's Role in the Pursuit of Innovation - October 16, 2014
- Jaguar Land Rover Wins 2014 Altair Enlighten Award - August 5, 2014


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This experience has taught me that asking for help is not a sign of weakness. Asking for help is a necessity in order to keep things going when life throws its twists and turns. Continue reading
Throwback Thursday and 34 weeks update
We made it to 34 weeks! I'm so thankful (and pleasantly surprised) that these babies are still safe and sound in my belly. I thought it might be fun to share a baby bump comparison from when I was 34 weeks pregnant with Cole versus 34 weeks pregnant with the twins. It's pretty easy to match the picture with the pregnancy!
Today I had a growth scan and a cervical check via ultra sound. My cervix has not started dilating and is actually still quite long. Basically, no changes from a couple of weeks ago. Still on bed rest orders, but only two more weeks to go! He said after that I can go run a marathon…quite a sense of humor Dr. Kaufman has considering I get winded just by opening up the recliner.
Update on Claire: She measures 4 pounds 3 ounces and is still head down. Her heart rate is perfect and always slightly lower than her brother's. I can already tell that she is the calmer of the two! During the ultra sound the tech pointed out to us that she was practicing her breathing; it was so incredible to watch.
Update on Owen: He measures 4 pounds 6 ounces and flipped back around to breech position. Earlier in the week he was head down right next to his sister. This little boy is a mover and shaker and does not like to sit still! Sounds like another little boy of mine… 😉
And how am I doing? My mood is all over the place and I'm insanely uncomfortable. However, I'm nearing the finish line and I'm thankful to have the best prizes waiting for me at the end.
Naming Baby A – Claire Ashlyn
Have I mentioned how incredibly thankful and excited I am to be having a daughter? The relationship I have with my mom is something that's grown more and more special to me over the years. She is someone I can … Continue reading
Boy and Girl Twin Nursery: Gray, Blue & Pink
Putting the twin's nursery together has been so much fun! It's been a collaborative effort between myself and my wonderful family. A few weeks ago I was put on bed rest and started to worry that the room would never … Continue reading
32 Weeks Update!
After the preterm labor scare we had at 28 weeks I ended up changing doctors and hospitals to make sure I had a team that could support the babies if they come early. As we were going over some details … Continue reading
Cole's First Day of Pre-K
My heart is going to burst out of my chest and I don't know whether to laugh or cry. It feels like yesterday that I first laid eyes on my 5lb 5oz little boy for the first time and today was his first day of school. There have been major highs and some what-am-I-doing lows in my past 3 1/2 years as a stay at home mom and I wouldn't change a moment of it.
We enrolled Cole in the three day, 8am – 2:30pm, pre-k program at a local private school. This is a big deal for us since Cole has been home with me since the day he was born! We've been talking to him about how fun school will be all summer long. He even practiced his introductions.
And this morning we put on his new uniform and took a few first day of school pictures.
He's a social boy by nature, but I wasn't sure how he would feel about being dropped off in a classroom with 15 other kids and two teachers that he's never met. Also, I was experiencing some major mommy guilt since I'm on bed rest and couldn't go with Greg to drop him off. However, the report that I got back was that Cole was cool as cucumber when Daddy had to leave. He was so excited to find his own name tag at the desk!
Greg encouraged him to go play trains with the other kids in the classroom. He replied, "But Daddy those trains are broken…they don't light up." Then he looked around, saw a little boy playing with some cars on a toy ramp, walked over and asked, "Can I play cars with you?" Making friends already 🙂
Update! Cole just got home from school and told me he had so much fun. He told me that they played with shaving cream, had a snack, danced to the Frozen Let it Go song, and painted their hand prints! He's excited to go back after the holiday weekend and he hopes they get to play on the playground 🙂
I am one proud mama!
30 weeks and counting!
Whether we see a roadblock or a bridge depends on our view on life. With a positive outlook we can turn any obstacle into a stepping stone. We met our first goal today – 30 weeks and the twins are still happy and … Continue reading
My Bedrest Mantra – Keep Calm And Carry On
I was browsing Amazon last week and came across this fabulous maternity tee shirt. Even though it was outrageously overpriced I had to have it. Worth every penny. My bathroom breaks have turned into a motivational session with my reflection reminding me to Keep … Continue reading
Naming Baby B – Owen Edward
Naming these babies has been a challenge! We are still on the fence on what to name baby girl. However, I'm happy to share that we have officially named baby B, our youngest son, Owen Edward. The original story of how we decided on this name is pretty … Continue reading
Home Sweet Home – Bed Rest Day 5
I got my cervix checked again yesterday and it's measuring longer than last week! My perinatologist explained that the cervix is a muscle that can expand based on the amount of strain it's under. Staying off of my feet to … Continue reading


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Jigglypuff is a pokemon from the original 150 set. I never used her that much in the games, but I liked her other appearances.
Such as her cameo in the pokemon anime as a wannabe singer that puts (literally) everyone to sleep. Then gets mad. Classic comedy.
She was also a decent fighter in the Super Smash Bros. series. Dangerous with more skillful players. The sing ability needs to be a tad stronger though.
Her original Japanese name is プリン (Purin) which is the Japanese word for pudding.


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Photography Classes in East Jordan MI
Interested in taking photography classes in East Jordan MI? No matter if you are a professional, beginner, or hobbyist, the best approach to improving your photography skills is through hands-on classes with professional instructors.
There are many accredited photography schools in Michigan. Subjects covered in photography classes include lighting techniques, digital capture, outdoor photography, exposure, composition, and many other basic and advanced camera techniques. Becoming an expert photographer can lead to a lifelong hobby or successful professional career.
There are numerous Photography Classes in East Jordan MI:
- East Jordan Studio Photography Classes
- East Jordan Photography 101
- East Jordan Digital Photography Classes
- East Jordan Nature Photography Classes
- East Jordan Editorial Photography Classes
East Jordan MI Photography Classes
Ferris State University
1201 S State St
Big Rapids, Michigan 49307-2251
Phone: (231) 591-2000
106.64 miles away
Central Michigan University
106 Warriner Hall
Mount Pleasant, Michigan 48859
Phone: (989) 774-4000
112.25 miles away
Grand Rapids Community College
143 Bostwick Ave NE
Grand Rapids, Michigan 49503-3295
Phone: (616) 234-4722
157.13 miles away
Grand Valley State University
1 Campus Dr
Allendale, Michigan 49401-9403
Phone: (616) 331-2020
159.79 miles away
Mott Community College
1401 E Court St
Flint, Michigan 48503-2089
Phone: (810) 762-0200
166.90 miles away
Lansing Community College
419 N Capitol Ave
Lansing, Michigan 48901-7210
Phone: (517) 483-1957
172.60 miles away
Concordia University-Wisconsin
12800 N Lake Shore Dr
Mequon, Wisconsin 53097-2402
Phone: (262) 243-5700
193.97 miles away
Oakland University
2200 North Squirrel Road
Rochester Hills, Michigan 48309-4401
Phone: (248) 370-2100
198.43 miles away
Cardinal Stritch University
6801 N Yates Rd
Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53217-3985
Phone: (414) 410-4000
199.04 miles away


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Jeff Smith
About MeInitially running to escape his two younger sisters, Jeff has been running as far back as he can remember. Through high school, the Marines and Super Hero Training School, Jeff kept at the left-right-left right but without focus. In 1999 he stepped up to the challenge of organizing a running group, began informal coaching and applied some goals to his own running. Now with several respectable distances and times under his belt, he spends most of his time running for the pure joy of it, encouraging other runners to tap into their potential, saving kittens stranded in trees and helping the elderly cross the street.
My Posts
Book Review: Runners' Cookbook
Alison Wade, a staple author and editor of the running community, has put together a collection...
Product Review: AirDrive Headphones
AirDrives – Product Review [ad#inPost-Big] I'm a geek. I'm also a geek that...
Ryan Shay Inspires Thousands Across the Nation (and beyond) to Run in His Memory
The outpouring of emotion surrounding the tragic death of Ryan Shay reached its cathartic peak...
Ryan Shay 5.5 Mile Memorial Run in Your Hometown: Saturday, November 17
Most folks out there who are reading this are already familiar with the untimely death of 28-year-old...
Jeff Is Cookin'!
I was contacted a while back by the folks over at Matisse & Jack's to give their...
Slow Down, You Move Too Fast
During my drive for Boston last year, I distinctly remember hammering through nearly every...
You Need a Coach!
No, i'm not talking to that elite, speedy group over there bouncing on their tip-toes...


text: Andreas Brunner is a producer from Austria who producesheart-adapted techno music. He has made his personal taskto follow the call of honesty in order to get a feeling of life.And so he hopes to communicate this with his music.At the age of fourteen, he and his brother founded a cultureclub called "Tonfysik", which should promote electronicmusic. From then on, Minimal/Electro/Techno have been hisconstant, inspiring companions and give him from day to daylively vibrations! Especially producing. At the age of sixteenhe defined following … realizing his own imagination ofsound design, and Creating exciting atmosphere, emotinalsounds and professionally runnings of the tracks. He know,for the future, that he want to find out, how far the musictakes him. At the moment, his feeling says, that this is theright way....so go on a short voyage of discovery in the music fromAndreas Brunner.


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'The World's Loneliest Whale' Finally Has an Entourage: Adrian Grenier to Produce New Doc
An actor best known for playing a Hollywood star surrounded by an entourage is set to produce a film about a whale that doesn't seem to have a friend in the world.
This week at the Cannes Film Festival, New York–based Worldview Entertainment, which was also involved with the Oscar-nominated documentary The Square, announced it will finance and produce the documentary feature 52, about the needle-in-a-haystack search for a mysterious, strangely solitary mammal often called the "loneliest whale in the world."
Entourage star Adrian Grenier is the producer of the movie, which will be directed by Joshua Zeman from his own treatment. Perhaps Zeman's most prominent credit is as coproducer of the 2003 Peter Dinklage breakout film The Station Agent. Since then, he has directed and written documentaries.
During a seven-week Pacific expedition this fall, the crew will set out to find "52 Hertz," the single male cetacean who emits mating songs at a single frequency, unlike any other whale in the sea. Baleen whales, which includes blue whales and humpbacks, can make vocalizations at frequencies in a wide range—from 10Hz to 7000Hz (7kHz). This one-of-a-kind whale also emits calls that are more frequent and shorter than those of other whales, and he doesn't follow any known migration route.
In other words, this whale has no one to talk to. His lonesome love songs go unreturned because no other whale can hear him singing.
No one has ever knowingly seen the elusive 52 Hertz, but U.S. government scientists have been tracking his haunting songs, which can travel for hundreds of miles under the ocean, for decades. Discovery magazine once described the otherworldly sound as "the ghostly howls of a drowned tuba player."
His exact species is uncertain, though he is believed to be a blue whale or a fin whale, or perhaps a rare hybrid of the two. Other possible explanations are that he is malformed, or perhaps even the last vestige of a whale species that has never been identified.
52 Hertz's songs were first detected by the U.S. Navy in 1992, so he is at least 24 years old, although probably much older. A 2004 New York Times article reported that his voice had deepened slightly, a possible sign of maturing.
Despite his exceptional solitude—virtually all whales are highly social animals with strong family bonds—52 Hertz is healthy. That he has survived on his own for so long "indicates there is nothing wrong" with his physical condition, Dr. Kate Stafford, a researcher at the National Marine Mammal Laboratory in Seattle, told The New York Times.
Officials at Worldview Entertainment, which has signed on to finance the film, did not return calls seeking comment. Zeman told Variety, "I'm so humbled by the scope of this adventure. There is still so much mystery in our oceans, and the plight of this lonely whale speaks to something very human in all of us, the need to connect and be heard."
52 Hertz, whose tale has been recounted on CNN, BBC, and other international outlets, has inspired people around the world to compose songs, poems, and books about the friendless whale.
Yet it's possible that this whale is not so lonely after all. "Is he alone? I don't know," Mary-Ann Daher, a whale researcher who coauthored a 2004 paper on 52 Hertz, told Discovery magazine. "People like to imagine this creature just out there swimming by his lonesome, just singing away and nobody's listening. But I can't say that."
52: The Search for the Loneliest Whale in the World is expected to open in 2015.
Correction [May 24, 2014]:
An earlier version of this article stated that 52 Hertz vocalizes "at a frequency far higher than any other whale in the sea." This is incorrect. What makes 52 Hertz exceptional is that he vocalizes only at 52 Hertz, rather than through a range of frequencies (pitches), as other whales do. Other whales make steady-frequency calls, but at different, species-specific frequencies. TakePart.com regrets the error.


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Phineas and Ferb Birthday Cake
July seem to be the cake month for me.
I have been making cakes almost every week.
So I only have one week to prepare for this cake.
This is also the week when I have people cleaning the house.
The weather was so hot and the humidity very high
that the figures started sweating and melting.
Disney's Phineas and Ferb is the birthday celebrant's favorite show.
Ferb is her favorite character.
I have not heard of these Disney characters as my daughter is not
at that age yet to be watching this show.
So I went online, look for pictures and started molding.
By far the easiest figures I've done.
I airbrushed the whole cake with Americolor Airbrush Royal Blue Color.
The other details were made the night before while I was baking the cakes.
Not much to say on this cake except that the assembly and the transport
were very stressful due to the hot weather.
I was able to enjoy the swimming party after the cake was cut and eaten.
Love the cream cheese and fresh sliced strawberry filling.
Here's the front shot of the cake
Toy Story 3 for Isaiah
I was hesitant to accept this order at first, mainly because I was not sure if I can mold the figures right
especially the face of Woody, Buzz and Jessie.
I have to admit that it took several tries to get Woody and Buzz' face.
The rest of the figures were not so hard to do.
Then I made the cupcake toppers.
Assembling the cake
I started the cake board (wood design) and a dummy cake.
My first time to use a dummy cake.
There are different
opinions in terms of using a dummy cake...so why did I use it?
Just in case the celebrant's parents decided to keep the toppers after the party,
they will be able to without ruining the figures
Honestly, I wish they do keep them...
It's very hard to let go of the figures. Can I have them back...LOL
Did you notice Jessie, the cowgirl?
She's upside down looking for her hat inside the box.
What do you think?
I had a hard time molding her face, so I gave up and cheated (LOL).
My 5 yr old daughter suggested that I attached the red hat on the box.
I asked why and she said "It's like the hat is falling, Mommy".
I have a future assistant in the making. Love when she contributes ideas on my cake.
I placed a real cake on top of the dummy cake and four dozen cupcakes around.
HAPPY 1st BIRTHDAY ISAIAH!
Thanks Nicole and Choi for trusting me on your baby's first birthday cake.
Here are photos of Isaiah and his parents with the
I am so glad that his parents loved it.
Here are more photos of the cake. Happy Viewing everyone!
Happy Birthday To you
Few weeks ago I received a request from Faith, the celebrant to make her a music themed cake
with colors pink, purple, black and lots of polka dots.
Another fun cake this week!
I got a two thumbe up from the celebrant.
More than all the compliments I could ask for.
HAPPY 11th BIRTHDAY FAITH!
♪ ♫ Happy Birthday To you ♪ ♫
♪ ♫ Happy Birthday To you ♪ ♫
♪ ♫ Happy Birthday Dear Faith ♪ ♫
♪ ♫ Happy Birthday To you ♪ ♫
Have a wonderful week ahead everyone.
Thanks for visiting my website!
January 2019
My family and friends call me Bobie. An IT Specialist and have discovered cake decorating, a new hobby...my new passion.
Flickr Photos