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Sunday, March 20, 2011
Finding the perfect sword for belly dancing can be a daunting task. This is especially true if you are about to purchase your first scimitar, or if you are shopping for a sword on the Internet, and don't have the opportunity to try it out in person.
The best swords for someone who is just beginning to dance with scimitars are those that are perfectly balanced, height-proportionate, and not really light but also not a big heavy weapon, because you may need to increase your strength and work up to that. Medium size well-balanced dance sabers are pretty inexpensive, so once you get used to working with them, if you want a flashy, heavier sword, it wouldn't break your bank to buy one after a few months of getting used to your "starter" sword- and that way, you will always have a spare on hand.
You want a saber that'll stay on your head without rocking, and one that won't kill your neck and upper muscles until you build up the necessary stamina and strength. Also, durability figures in- you want it to stay balanced if- and when- it gets dropped, and believe me it will get dropped!
Your selection will depend on a few different factors: aesthetics and personal taste is important. One dancer might want a gleaming new-looking sword that shines under the stage lights, while another may desire a weapon that looks more rustic, like it's an authentic antique. There are also many shapes and sizes of swords to choose from, ranging from those with relatively thin blades without much curve to blades that have a deadly, sharp curve and get thicker at the end, towards the tip. The way the hilt (handle) looks and feels is also a factor. Some swords have a very utilitarian, simple-looking hilt with a flat cross guard, others are highly decorated, and ranging from ornately carved rounded or pointed pommels to dragonhead motifs. I even have a sword whose handle features a cast-brass figure of a leaping jaguar chasing a rabbit. If your sword features a cupped cross guard and you are left-handed, make sure it fits your hand properly, or get an "ambidextrous" sword with a flat cross-guard.
Personally, I am not a fan of those flat swords, which look like they were cast in a mold. Yes, they are inexpensive, but I like my swords to look like real weapons, even if they were made specifically with dancing in mind. There are plenty available that look- and handle- much better than the cheap flat ones.
Your choice will also depend on your size. A larger sword might be too heavy or dwarf a smaller performer onstage, while a smaller, shorter sword might look comical on a taller, more statuesque dancer.
More importantly, your sword selection should be based on how experienced you are, as well as in the strength of the muscles in your neck, upper back, shoulders and arms. Remember, you are going to be balancing it on top of your head and will have to remain very stable while doing so, and that takes strength. You will also be arcing and swinging the sword while it's held in your hand, and so it needs to be light enough for you to easily handle it.
Another factor is price: swords can range from about $25.00 to $500.00, depending on quality, size, whether the sabre is custom-made or antique...but don't think you need to make a huge investment in order to get a decent sword.
There are many inexpensive options on the market today, so if you are a beginner and unsure of what to get, pick a slightly smaller, relatively affordable sword- you can always work your way up to a larger, heavier and more expensive one later.
All swords balance differently, depending on the weight of the blade, the heft and angle of the hilt-or in laymen's terms, the handle area- which includes the cross-guard and pommel, which is the decorative bolt at the top of the handle. When buying a sword for dancing, pick one that stands up straight on it's edge (the blade edge) and doesn't flop over flat. There are many scimitar options on the market today which are made strictly for dancing and are balanced already, so you will not have a problem finding a sword that suits you and your unique needs.
When shopping for a sword in person, check it out and find the median balance point by testing the blade on the top of your wrist, then try it on your head. The balance point of the sword itself won't be dead center; it will be more towards the sword's handle. The optimum balance point on your head will be different depending on what type of sword you are using as well as what is easiest for you. For swords, my balance point is just in front of the center of my head- but everyone's skull has a different shape. With some practice, you will find what is your most comfortable spot.
If you are shopping for a sword on the Internet, you obviously can't try it, so find a reputable dealer, and don't be afraid to ask questions if specifications aren't listed on the item's description. Ask about length, weight, and if it includes a scabbard. Also ask how it is shipped, what it will be packed in (it may get banged around on it's way to you and potentially fall out of balance) and also about the company's return or exchange policy!
Scimitars and swords that are either real military weapons or decorative items usually won't balance properly. The souvenir swords are very light, and typically not constructed well- hello, they were made to be decorations! It would probably be much easier for a sword newbie to eschew these in favor of a sword made specifically for belly dance.
Legitimate military weaponry, whether antique or contemporary, may or may not balance- and know that they are often quite pricey. Some were made for actual battle, others for ceremony. Of course they look amazing, but know that if you decide to purchase one of these, you will undoubtedly be gambling: you will have to take it apart yourself, or have someone else do it for you, or at the very least tweak the hilt or pommel in order to get it to balance. Before swords were mass-produced for dancing, I used vintage military swords. I owned a Pakistani Army scimitar, which balanced perfectly when the entire hilt was inverted, but that made the ornate cross-guard sit upside down, so I really had to adjust the way I held the weapon itself. The other was an Afghani scimitar, which sadly never balanced at all but was gorgeous. The last one was a serious antique- a Persian Shamshir that was given to me as a birthday gift. It was stunningly beautiful- but weighed maybe ten or twelve pounds. Well, since it was my birthday, I made the mistake of unsheathing it after I'd ingested three or four margaritas. The blade, full of beautiful scrollwork, was oxidized to a dark color, and it looked very lethal. I immediately got the sense that this weapon had probably killed –or at least seriously wounded- someone, but that just made it all the more glamorous for me!
"Wow, just look at this," I purred, holding the scimitar vertically in front of me, showing it off. I mentioned I'd heard that in the early Ottoman Empire, to test the sharpness of the scimitar's blade, that soldiers used to toss a piece of silk up in the air, and when it landed on the blade, if the material effortlessly split in half, the sword was sharp enough for battle. With that, I joked that my present looked like it would definitely split silk.
"Look how sharp it is!" I cried, all full of tipsy bravado.
With that, I ran my index finger down the blade from the tip to the center. At first I didn't understand why my birthday guests looked horrified, until I realized my finger was bleeding profusely, and my blood was dribbling lazily down the blade-the scimitar was so sharp I hadn't even felt it open up my finger! There was a brief moment of uproar and some serious debating on whether or not a trip to the Emergency Room was in order. Upon secondary inspection, after I got cleaned up, the wound wasn't deep enough for stitches, so I just put the sword away, turned the music up and had another cocktail!
That sword took a ton of sanding and scoring to dull the blade enough for me to use it…and even then, though I loved it, it was so heavy I only danced with it on very special occasions. I still own it, but sadly haven't used it in years.
Dropping your sword can throw it out of balance, as can bad storage. For travel to and from shows, I recommend a heavy, stiff sheath as opposed to a casing made of cloth material, because it will protect your saber better… but if you are going to be storing your sword for a long time, it would be wise to remove it from the scabbard and wrap it in cloth, then wrap the cloth in plastic. This will keep the sword straight and un-warped, and also protect it from the elements. For regular storage, when you are using the scimitar often, you can either get a weapon rack, or you can store your sword(s) flat on the floor or on a deep shelf. Most swords have stainless steel blades, so they will not tarnish easily, but anything made of metal can tarnish or oxidize. After each use, you should wipe the blade off with a soft cloth to remove fingerprints, sweat, perfume or any oils from your skin or scalp. Every so often, wipe the blade down with oil to keep it shiny- even if a blade is made of stainless steel, it still could get a bit rusty. Never use abrasive polishes on your sword!
As far as dancing goes, some performers prefer to balance a sword on a wrapped turban, others prefer a bare head, and some people use wigs or falls when doing sword work. There is no hard and fast rule; you should do whatever makes you feel comfortable. Personally, I like to feel the sword sitting right on my scalp, so I know exactly where it is at any given time.
Any way you choose, if the blade of the sword feels slippery on your head, you can "cheat" a little by rubbing a candle along the blade at the balance point, or roughing up the area by filing or scoring it with sandpaper. In a pinch, even spraying the balance point with hairspray so it becomes gummy will add a little traction. Some dancers glue a very thin strip of sandpaper along the edge at the balance point. This will not be visible from the stage but it does help to "catch" on your hair. Some types of swords come with grooves already cut into them at the balancing point- but I myself don't find this helpful- usually the grooves are too wide for them to be able to work properly. And there are also dancers who don't use anything, just a bare blade. Again, this is your choice.
And one last word to the wise: even if a sword was made specifically for dancing, it still has the potential to injure you. Remember to warm up completely before you work with your scimitar. If you feel it sliding while you are dancing, take a moment, remove the sword and replace it back to your original, comfortable balance point, and then proceed with your act.
T he main thing to remember when rehearsing or performing with swords is: SAFETY FIRST!
Here's a link which features many great dancing swords…tell them The Princess sent you!
I have three instructional sword DVD's featuring more hints, tips, tricks, instruction and costumed performances available on my website. You can find them here:
Posted by Pleasant Gehman/Princess Farhana at 6:26 PM 2 comments:
Labels: belly dance, Princes Farhana, sabers, scimitars, sword dancing
Sunday, March 13, 2011
I HATE those constant scam emails asking for dance classes and fitness classes... this one just happened to be the proverbial straw that broke the camel's back...and I wrote back!
On XXX, 2011 at 7:47 AM, firstname.lastname@example.com> wrote:
I hope this email meets you in good health and spirits.
My name is XXXX, I would like to get a quote as well as book beginners classes for fitness with you for a group of 6 on the following dates:
4th of April 2011 to 15th April 2011
Timing for classes maybe 8am-10am. Is this ok with you?
We would be coming over for vacation/tour. After discussing with the others we decided on having two sessions per day with Three (3) in each group
Please kindly get back to me with the quote/total cost for your services in the format below:
1. Price per person/hour:........
2. Total cost for 6 persons/2 hours each day for 2 weeks:........
3. Payment option
Types of credit cards accepted:.....
4. CONTACT DETAILS (for my records and documentation):
You full name:............
Phone/Mobile numbers:.....
Best Regards
Hi there,
Hope you are well, and thanks so much for your interest.
Indeed I am in good health, and my spirits have already risen with your email.
I would love to discuss teaching fitness classes with you and your group, and the time period you stated - April- is just perfect for getting in shape for summer!
Instead of just a couple of two hour sessions per day, I believe it would be a great advantage for you and your group to do do a full program of 10-18 hours a day.
And though I'm sure you can afford these semi-private lessons, we really don't need to discuss payment options, because you and your group will be expected to barter in exchange for this exclusive fitness opportunity. Trust me, you will be in GREAT SHAPE by the end of our time together!
The customary "pledge" you will make for being in my presence- not to mention my time and expertise - is sometimes referred to formally as acting as an as "indentured servant", for an undefined amount of time.
In laymen's terms, that means I will expect you and your group to get yourselves in shape by functioning as as " slaves" (or "servants" if you prefer that term) for me and a select group of my friends.
Your duties will include attending to us in any way we wish, including but not limited to: housework such as dusting, mopping, scrubbing floors, doing laundry, ironing, gardening/ yard work, serving food and drink, moving furniture, and the like.
If any of you are deemed attractive, there may be other duties as well, but of course, we can discuss this at a later date.
You will learn a lot from this experience, as well as get in tip-top shape for summer, I can assure you!
Looking forward to hearing from you at your earliest convenience.
Posted by Pleasant Gehman/Princess Farhana at 11:12 PM 3 comments:
Labels: belly dance, burlesque, dance lessons, email scams, Princess Farhana
Thursday, March 10, 2011
I put lipstick on before I sit down to type an article, and also before making telephone calls. If it's an important business call, I dress nicely before getting on the phone. I'm not talking about Skype or video chat either…just regular calls from a landline or a cell phone.
Why am I telling you this, and what does it have to do with dancing?
Admittedly I am quirky, but there's a method to my madness- it's because dressing the part helps to put you in the right psychological frame of mind for whatever you are doing.
It goes without saying that as dancers, we all know about the importance of costumes! But have you ever considered what sort of effect your off-stage clothes might have on your dance practice or your career in general?
If you were going to an interview for a corporate job, you would undoubtedly wear appropriate business attire to help you land the position. Showing up well-groomed and nicely dressed for a job interview proves that you are taking the interview seriously, and also reflects the fact that you care about yourself and take pride in your appearance…which sends the subliminal message that you would attend to other business-related tasks in the same careful manner. It also shows that you would be an asset in dealing with the general public.
Conversely, if you were attending a costume party, Victorian event, pirate festival, 1950's-style vintage car show, Renaissance fair or some other themed event, you would probably want to dress appropriately- it not only makes things much more fun, it actually helps your brain to switch gears, by preparing you mentally for immersing yourself into the event.
If you apply the same ideas to your dance practice, it just might help you to be a better dancer.
This concept was brought home to me years ago, at the very beginning of my dance career. My troupe, Flowers Of The Desert, used to gig a couple of times a week if not more, and we rehearsed two or three times a week- more if we were preparing for a special theatrical show. Our Sunday rehearsal was usually the longest and most grueling. Everyone in the troupe had a hectic schedule: we all had solo dance gigs as well as our troupe work; some members had high-powered day jobs, and others were mothers of young children in addition to everything else!
Our Sunday rehearsals were tough; they were also required for all troupe members. Every Sunday, we would go over notes from the previous weekends shows, and try to correct and polish mistakes, as well as learn new choreographies. But it was typical for all troupe members to roll in for these important Sunday morning practice sessions late, bleary eyed, fresh out of bed, and wearing whatever wrinkled sweats we'd picked up off the floor or fished out of our dance bags. The rehearsal would usually start off slowly, with false starts and yawns, and our collective attention span and energy levels were pretty low. We all knew we needed to do something about this, but we weren't sure what.
At the same time, though we saw each other constantly, even with this level of interaction and familiarity, we began to realize that at our shows, we sometimes didn't even recognize our sister troupe members… because everyone was surprised at how well we cleaned up. We were beautiful- and performed accordingly. But in rehearsal, we looked like crap...and...well, you get the idea!
Finally, we had a group vote and decided to try an experiment: we decided that we needed to make an effort to look nice-or at least decent- for rehearsal, the idea being that it would help us to focus on whatever we were working on. And it did!
Try it yourself by taking a little time to "suit up" for your dance classes or even your at-home practice sessions. In years past, the mark of a professional dancer was to be dressed in rags- ratty leg warmers, worn-out ballet slippers, and hole-filled tights. But even in the film "Flashdance", Jennifer Beals looked positively adorable in her torn sweatshirt and conciously mussed-up hair! Nowadays, there is such a variety of cute, inexpensive dance wear options on the market that you don't need to be flitting around it rags- unless of course it's an artistic/fashion choice on your part and makes you feel better about your dancing!
Before you go to class, or get ready to practice at home, put on a touch of make-up, some cute sweats and a pair of pretty earrings. It's a definite morale booster, and might just even help you to better get in the mood for your dancing.
When you are going to a gig, make sure that the street clothes you show up in are appropriate, not to mention pretty and feminine. Remember that you will be seeing not just your employers, but also the people you will be performing for- so looking good off stage is vital to preserve the illusion of your on stage glamour!
My street wardrobe usually runs the gamut from tank tops, long –sleeved t-shirts and leggings to…tank tops, long-sleeved t-shirts and leggings! But for years, I have always made sure to have a few "gig dresses" in my rotation. These are little dresses that basically look like I made an effort to look nice. They're also appropriate for any occaision, from a private party or wedding to a club gig or dance festival. They are uniformly made of some non-wrinkling fabric (like jersey) that can be stuffed into a gig bag and still come out looking fresh after I finish my show. I also choose garments with a loose construction or shape, so that they don't leave any marks on my body when I change into my costume. Leggings and a nice drapey long top are also a good option. If you don't like wearing heels to and from gigs, choose some cute boots or ballet flats to wear.
As for wearing cover-ups during a gig, I never go without one. I believe that stage costumes should be saved for the performance alone, and am actually superstitious about being seen by the audience in my costume before, during and after gigs. That is, unless of course people want to take post-show pictures of me in my costume! For me, a gig cover-up is essential, and I don't count using my coat or a belly dance veil as a cover-up. Again, I like my cover-up to be portable and loose fitting so that it will not leave marks on my skin. I also like wearing something that be cool in the summer or warm when I'm in a drafty backstage area... but other than that, I have no constraints about the cover-up I choose. There are many beautiful, inexpensive garments that could function as gig cover-ups: ethnic caftans, burnout velvet robes, vintage capes, kimonos…the choice is yours.
So, remember: while you are off-stage, if you dress the part of a professional dancer, you will be treated with respect.
Ok, so if you have read this far, I will tell you a secret. Once, when i had a really important favor to ask ( on the phone, of course) I took off all my clothes before making the call, because I thought it would add the right touch of vulnerability to my voice. Guess what? The favor was granted!
And by the way, in case you are wondering, I am typing this wearing icy pink "Bombshell" lipstick by Mac, with a matching pink pastel rhinestoned flower in my hair. See? I told you I was crazy...
Posted by Pleasant Gehman/Princess Farhana at 1:59 PM 3 comments:
Labels: belly dance, burlesque, costumes, dance jobs, Princess Farhana
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Florida State RB Lonnie Pryor:
– Hits hole up the left middle out to the left sideline, goes completely untouched en route to 60-yard touchdown — shows great speed for a 229-pound back
– Runs short out from backfield, catches screen, turns upfield with speed, makes a defender miss and dives forward off another tackle to gain 11 yards — good hands, good open-field athleticism
– Beats defensive line to the right sideline, picks up a good block and runs behind it for a 31-yard gain
– Runs up huge hole between left tackle and left guard, outruns the defense for 37-yard touchdown; showing very good speed for a big back tonight
Overview: The only negative about Lonnie Pryor's game in the Orange Bowl is that he only ran the ball five times, but that was a playcalling issue rather than a performance one. When Pryor did run the ball, the 229-pound fullback showed surprising athletic ability, and put together two of the game's biggest play with 60- and 37-yard touchdown runs.
Pryor played fullback at Florida State, but is a much better runner than he is a blocker, so he will project as a tailback at the next level. But as he showed in this game, he has a great combination of size, power, speed and even quickness, and he is an Alfred Morris-like prospect who should be a late-round draft selection.
Northern Illinois WR Martel Moore:
– Lined up in one-on-one against Xavier Rhodes on most snaps
– Blows by coverage with double move about 15 yards upfield on right side, wide open for a huge downfield play but overthrown by Lynch
– Good downfield speed, smooth route-runner
– Has chance to make 10-yard catch going out to left sideline, pass goes off his hands
– Great body control on 10-yard catch to reach over boundary line, keep one foot planted just inside right sideline, get second foot for NFL catch and secure possession
– Runs 11-yard slant across the field and makes touchdown catch
– Pass thrown behind Moore, but still should have been caught, turns around to make catch but ball goes off his hands on 8-yard crossing route
– Drops another pass, has to turn for 5-yard pass thrown behind him going out to right sideline, adjusts but drops pass off his hands
– Makes 6-yard catch off short in, turns upfield and ends up with 12-yard gain
– Moore beats single coverage with a double move, should have had a 47-yard deep ball touchdown but overthrown by Lynch
Overview: Martel Moore didn't have a very productive night in the Orange Bowl — he caught just four passes for 29 yards — and there are three big reasons for that. He was blanketed for most of the game by one of college football's best cornerbacks in Xavier Rhodes, and on two plays that should have been huge pass completions, Jordan Lynch overthrew him deep. He also, however, had three passes go off his hands that should have been caught.
Moore is a skilled receiver with good athleticism and downfield receiving ability, but he isn't good enough to overcome unreliable hands. He did have some great moments in this game — he had a touchdown, a very tough sideline catch and should have had two other big plays — but the drops hurt his chances of being a late-round draft selection.
Northern Illinois DE Sean Progar:
– Holds his gap at RDE rather than rush, Freeman tries to run up left side and he makes a sound tackle for 1-yard loss; good run defense discipline
– Goes unblocked by the line, sheds RB pickup block immediately with strong push, rushes at Manuel and hits him as he throws to force incompletion
– Beats right tackle off the line with good jump, rushes around him wide and brings pressure against Manuel to force incompletion; should have drawn penalty as well as offensive lineman knocked his helmet off, still forces 4th & 3 punt
– From right side of defensive line, pursues sweep to right sideline, combines with teammate stop Freeman for 2-yard loss
– Good at anticipating the snap and getting a good jump off the line
– Does not have great speed
Overview: Sean Progar made some very nice plays for the NIU defense in the Orange Bowl, and was their best defensive lineman in that game. He made a couple of big run stops for tackles for loss, and brought pressure off the edge effectively. He may not have the explosiveness or power to be a sure draft pick, but certainly remains in the conversation after a solid performance on the national stage.
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Tags: 2013 NFL Draft, Bjoern Werner, Florida State, Northern Illinois, Scouting Notes, Vince Williams, Xavier Rhodes

subset: commoncrawl


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Aussie actress Holt finds 'dream job' in Georgia
Australian actress Claire Holt knew her career choice would take her to Hollywood, but the small town of Covington, Ga., was a different story.
The 24-year-old is a cast member of "The Vampire Diaries," which films in Covington, about 45 miles outside Atlanta, most of the year. The show premieres its fourth season Thursday on The CW.
"I didn't really think about a television show sending me somewhere else," she said in a recent interview."
Holt was hired to appear in a few episodes early in the show's third season, but the role was expanded.
Filming runs from June to April. Holt describes getting used to the area and the intense humidity in the summer as "an adjustment," though she's now feeling more comfortable.
Holt also credits the cast and crew with making her feel welcome.
"They're really my friends," she said, "and that helped me feel more settled."
"The Vampire Diaries" stars Ian Somerhalder and Paul Wesley as vampire brothers who are both in love with the same girl, played by Nina Dobrev.
Holt plays Rebekah, a member of a founding family of vampires who longs to be a real teen. She badly wants to be accepted and lashes out if she feels rejected.
"It's something she craves," Holt said. "She really just wants to be liked. She wants people to want to be around her, and then she puts up the tough act and pretends she doesn't care but she does. She's just a girl, you know?"
Critics have praised the show for its high-production values and twists-and-turns. Holt says it's a "dream job."
"It's amazing working on a show like this because it's always changing. We could do flashback episodes or huge stunt episodes. They're so ambitious and it really feels like I get to experience a lot as an actor."
The show airs in Australia but isn't as current as it is in the U.S. Holt says her mother watches each episode online the day after it airs, but her father doesn't grasp its detailed story lines.
"I don't think my dad really gets it," she joked.
Alicia Rancilio covers entertainment for The Associated Press. Follow her online at https://www.twitter.com/aliciar


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Once upon a time, food at a wedding meant soggy, alternating chicken or beef.
Now, there are so many more options available – from casual cocktail canapes through to full blown, sit down dinners.
Lulu Powers, chef and wedding planner says that if cost is a concern, you should avoid going down the path of the buffet.
"Clients often think a buffet will be cheaper than a sit-down dinner, but that's not the case. You have to order one-and-a-half to two times as much food for a buffet because guests will go for seconds.
"I love to do a "grazing" of heavy hors d'oeuvres instead of a plated meal. This saves on food and it's fun."
However, if you do go down the path of the traditional sit down meal, Powers says the golden rule is "any food prepared for a large group should taste good at room temperature because it's just not that easy to serve 150 hot meals".
Grace Liang (née Wong) recently got married at premier wedding venue Carousel in Melbourne.
Her and her husband chose the option of a series of cocktail canapes, followed by a traditional three course dinner – for just over 300 guests!
We spoke to her about what challenges she faced organising catering for so many people, and what her food highlights were from the special day.
Trading Plates: What were your main considerations when picking dishes?
Grace Liang: Firstly, we focused on our tastes and what kind of food we like. In saying this, we were always careful to pick safer choices and a variety of types of food. So, for example, if there was a lot of seafood during canapes and entrée, the main courses were more along the lines of red meat and poultry.
TP: Was there anything you wanted to avoid specifically?
GL: Yes, we wanted to avoid nuts because of allergies. And also pasta, because we felt like that is something you can get quite easily anywhere.
TP: What do you think worked well on the night?
GL: The variation of food worked well, as it was able to cover everyone's' tastes. I also liked adding side dishes on top of the mains, as it gave it an extra layer of flavour.
TP: What was your favourite dish?
GL: I am a seafood girl, so I loved the fresh oysters and the charred scallops we chose for the canapes. The pulled pork dish was also amazing!
TP: How do you think a wedding meal should differ from any other dinner?
GL: It should reflect the couple and what they feel is important. Of course, you still need to think about your guests, but do not put too much pressure on trying to please everyone – it will never happen!
The presentation of the food should also conform to the overall ambiance and theme of your wedding, as opposed to just a mix of things you like to eat.
TP: You went for roving dessert platters at your wedding. Are you glad you chose this style?
GL: Yes, because it was later in the evening, it gave guests the opportunity to eat dessert when they felt like it (and also to eat two portions if they felt like it!).
I love chocolate, so the roving desserts were different kinds of chocolate desserts (white chocolate raspberry slice and a chocolate crunch).


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First up is the Last Crusade, the final part of my Indy Trilogy I did for Acme Archives. Prints are available on their DarkInk site HERE
Crusade: 1989
12"x36" 6-color screenprint on Cougar Natural 100C
Signed and Numbered Edition of 250
© 2014 Lucasfilm Ltd, LLC & tm.
Next was a print I did for Gallery 1988's 30th Anniversary of Ghostbusters. The show travelled to a few cities across the US. My prints should be dropping at a random time, follow their twitter @galleries1988 to find out when.
We're Ready To Believe You
18"x24" 3-color Screenprint on Frenchpaper Pop-Tone Sour Apple
And finally, based off The Hobbit, this was for a private group commission.
Oh, and that solo show I mentioned earlier in the post, here's the show card with all the details. If you live in the LA area, I hope you can check it out. Prints from that will be available on Gallery 1988's site after it opens on the 22nd of August.


text: Page ContentThe black carbon of the air (BC) refers to strongly light-absorbing particles which contain a substantial amount of inorganic carbon. Black carbon is formed by incomplete combustion. In the Helsinki Metropolitan Area, the emission sources include diesel vehicles, wood burning, ship traffic and long range transport. Black carbon belongs to the size category of fine particles (PM2.5). HSY has monitored black carbon concentrations since the beginning of 2009. The annual concentrations are on average 0.7 μg/m3 (in Kallio) and at the highest they were 2.6 μg/m3 (monitored at Töölöntulli in 2010). In the clean background areas in the Southern Finland, the annual average was ca. 0.2−0.5 μg/m3. There is no reference or limit value for black carbon.


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Kings in a Catholic style
This section looks at how successive Stuart kings clashed with parliament or the church. Looking at this background will help us to understand the exile of James VII and II in 1688, the rise of Jacobitism and the last, desperate attempt by Bonnie Prince Charlie to regain the throne in 1745.
Charles I (born 1600; reigned 1625-1649) favoured a High Anglican form of worship. His wife, Henrietta Maria of France, was Catholic, which made many of his subjects suspicious.
Charles dissolved parliament three times between 1625 and 1629, resolving to rule alone. His reign ended in civil war and his execution in 1649.
Charles II, 1630 - 1685. King of Scots 1649 - 1685, King of England and Ireland, 1660 – 1685, Studio of John RileyEnglish/PG 3441/Bequeathed by Angus William Ranald MacDonald 2006 /National Galleries of Scotland Creative Commons CC-BY-NC
Charles II (born 1630; reigned 1660-1685) married the Catholic Catherine of Braganza in 1662 but their marriage failed to produce an heir. The king's younger brother James, Duke of York, was next in line to the throne.
The Test Act was introduced in 1673 to exclude Catholics from public office. Rather than deny his faith, James resigned his position as Lord High Admiral.
In 1678 Titus Oates was at the centre of the fictitious Popish Plot to assassinate Charles II and make James king. This heightened hostility towards James.
Between 1679 and 1681, the 'Whig' party introduced to parliament three (unsuccessful) bills calling for James to be excluded from the throne because of his faith. This became known as The Exclusion Crisis.
A key supporter of these bills was the Duke of Monmouth, the illegitimate son of Charles II.
Can you think why Monmouth might have opposed James?
James VII and II, when Duke of York, 1633 – 1701, Sir Peter Lely/PG 901/National Galleries of Scotland Creative Commons CC-BY-NC
James VII and II (born 1633; reigned 1685-1688) married Anne Hyde in September 1660 and they secretly converted to Catholicism. They had eight children but only Mary born in 1662 and Anne born in 1665 survived to adulthood. At Charles II's insistence they were raised as Protestants. Their mother, Anne Hyde died in 1671 and in 1673, James married his second wife, Mary of Modena, also a Catholic.
It might help here to look back at the Stuart family tree from earlier in the week. Look at the line of succession and think about why Charles II wanted Mary and Anne raised as Protestants.
In the next section, we'll find out what happened when James came to the throne as James VII and II in 1685.
© National Museums Scotland and the University of Edinburgh 2017


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Unit14-951 Wilson Ave (Keele & Wilson)
Price: $2,350/Month
Status: For Rent/Lease
- Tax: $500/T.M.I. (2019)
- Community:Downsview-Roding-CFB
- City:Toronto
- Type:Commercial
- Style:Commercial/Retail
- Bath:2
- Size: 1,500 Sq Ft
- Garage:Plaza
- HeatingGas Forced Air Closd
- Sewer/Water SystemsSanitary, Municipal
Listing Contracted With: ROYAL LEPAGE YOUR COMMUNITY REALTY, BROKERAGE
Bright & Spacious, 2nd Floor Above Dental Office, Lots Of Parking, Keele/Wilson Area, Minutes From Hwy 401& 400, Allen Rd. & New Humber River Hospital. Ideal For Medical Related Businesses, Medical Specialists/Doctors, Lawyers, Accountants, Spa, Consulting Firms And So On. No Dentist Pls. 2 Washrooms. Landlord Willing To Divide The Space If Needed. Public Transit And Amenities. Lots Of Natural Light. High Ceiling. Fully Renovated. Pantry, Balcony.
High Traffic Plaza With Lots Of Free Visitor Parking. Hst Will Be Added. Very Clean. Hardwood Floors. Great For Any Professional, Medical, Law Offices Or Spa. Common Area & Utility Shares Is Extra.Currently Tenanted.
Want to learn more about Unit14-951 Wilson Ave (Keele & Wilson)?
Taline Sagharian
Sales Representative
Royal LePage Your Community Realty, Brokerage


text: Yoya is a retail store for children's fashion and design that bills itself "a neighborhood store with international appeal." From printed t-shirts and stylized raincoats to fabric necklaces and ballet shoes, the West Village store sells infant and toddler clothing and accessories that look like they came straight from a fashion runway. They also offer nursery furniture, home decor and handmade toys and gifts. Two young mothers, Cristina Villegas-Boujnah and Gena Gerbier, opened the store in 2004 "to create a modern and innovative environment in children's retail."


text: Hi! 👋 I'm Agustín Ruiz, a UX/UI designer and front-end developer from Buenos Aires, Argentina. I'm currently working as designer/developer at Avi-on Labs and SCVSoft. Previously worked as CDO and co-founder of Yecas and Anarchy Games. Check out some of my work on Dribbble, what I tweet about, my full resume, or just drop me an email at email@example.com.


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CrescentRating: Not CrescentRated
Seafood only restaurant
Jalan Tun Fuad Stephen, 88000 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
Centre Point, Kota Kinabalu L9-B1, Basement Floor Centre Point Sabah, No. 1, Jalan Centre Point, 88000 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah
Jalan Kota Kinabalu Lama 1, Pusat Bandar Kota Kinabalu, 88000 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
Jalan Kota Kinabalu Lama 1, Pusat Bandar Kota Kinabalu, 88000 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
Lot 8, Block A, Ground & 1st Floor, Jalan Dato Salleh Sulong, 88000, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, 88000, Malaysia
Suria Sabah, Kota Kinabalu Lot B-73, Lower Ground Floor, Suria Sabah Shopping Mall, Jalan Tun Fuad Stephen, 88000 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah.
Jalan Lapangan Terbang (Lama), 88200 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
Jalan Kota Kinabalu Lama 1, Pusat Bandar Kota Kinabalu, 88000 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
Jalan Kota Kinabalu Lama 1, Pusat Bandar Kota Kinabalu, 88000 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
City Mall (Jalan Kolombong), Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
Lot 97-99, Phase 2C, Ground Floor, Lintas Plaza (Lorong Lintas Plaza), 88300 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
Shop 32-0 32-1, Lot 92-GF & 92-FF, Lorong Lintas Plaza, Phase 2C, Lintas Plaza Kota Kinabalu
Jalan Tunku Abdul Rahman 88100 Kota Kinabalu Sabah, Malaysia
Jalan Pasir 88450 Kota Kinabalu Sabah, Malaysia
Jln JKR Putatan, Bandar Putatan, 89500 Penampang, Sabah, Malaysia
Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Unnamed Road, 88400 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
Jalan Rampayan, 88400 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
Planning a family trip where everyone can enjoy themselves can be exciting but stressful as well. After Covid-19, it is expected that domestic travel will recover first. Why not use this time to plan for a road trip in Malaysia? Going on a road trip is a great way to bond and spend quality time with your family! Whether you are planning for a short weekend getaway or a vacation, Malaysia has so much to offer! Malaysia is ideal for family road trips as there are so many destinations that you can explore and enjoy with your family. Here are 10 best family road trips in Malaysia! via GIPHYAlso Read: Here Is What Travel Will Look Like After Covid-19 1. Kota Tinggi to Desaru Image Credit: Kota Tinggi Waterfalls Resort It will take approximately 50 mins to drive down from Kota Tinggi to Desaru, hence making it an ideal short weekend getaway to enjoy with your family. Bring your family for a picnic and take a dip in the Kota Tinggi Waterfall. This spectacular view offers serenity, allowing us to relax and unwind. If you have more time to spare in Kota Tinggi, you can also visit the Kota Tinggi Firefly Park. Participate in outdoor studies with your family and get close to nature. This can be a fun yet enriching experience for the family! Image Credit: Desaru Fruit Farm More family-fun activities await you in Desaru. Drive down to Desaru Fruit Farm and learn how to grow various kinds of fruits. On top of that, you can even do a taste testing of the fruits you have picked. You can also bring the kids to feed the ostriches at the Desaru Ostrich Farm. My best pick will be the Desaru Coast Adventure Waterpark, which can be enjoyed by people of all ages - adults and kids alike. 2. Port Dickson to Malacca Image Credit: Lexis Hibiscus Port Dickson This trip is another ideal short getaway that you can consider. Stay for a night in Port Dickson and the following day, you can drive down to Malacca in less than 1.5 hours. Port Dickson is the best place to relax and rewind. Book one of the water chalets available like Lexis Hibiscus and enjoy a night stay. Nothing can go wrong with spending quality with the family in a private pool. Image Credit: St. Paul's Church on Lonely Planet The following day, you can take a drive to Malacca. There are many historical sites that you can visit in Malacca, which is known for its rich history. Head down to A Famosa and walk up the small hill to reach St. Paul's Church. Image Credit: Baba & Nyonya Heritage Museum There are also plenty of museums around the area that you can visit too, like Flora de la Mar Maritime Museum and the Baba & Nyonya Heritage Museum. If you happened to be in Klebang area, you must not miss the Klebang Original Coconut Shake! Nothing can beat teatime with some traditional Malay kuih (delicious!) and a cup of coconut shake topped with vanilla ice cream (yummy!). 3. Kuala Lumpur to Penang Image Credit: Wayne Chew on Unsplash No matter how long you are planning to stay in Kuala Lumpur, there are always things to see and do. It has become mandatory to take a trip to PETRONAS tower whenever one is in Kuala Lumpur. There are various things to see and do around the area like exploring Aquaria KLCC, visiting the aquarium, or shop at Suria KLCC. After spending some time sightseeing and shopping at Kuala Lumpur, continue your journey down the road for about 4 hours to reach a UNESCO heritage town, George Town in Penang. Image Credit: Dark Mansion More fun-filled activities await you in Penang. Visit Dark Mansion, a 3D trick art museum unlike the normal, because they glow in the dark! Your kids will definitely enjoy this, we promise! Image Credit: Penang Hill on Facebook One of my best take in Penang will be Penang Hill. Ride up the funicular ride to enjoy breathtaking views, learn heritage and culture, and enjoy mother nature. Make sure to feast on their local delights like Char Kuay Teow and Assam Laksa. Penang houses some affordable cafes too so be sure to check that out with your family! 4. Ipoh to Cameron Highlands Image Credit: Old Town Ipoh on Lonely Planet If you are looking for a lush greenery view on a trip, this road trip is made for you. The drive from Ipoh to Cameron Highlands takes about 2 hours. Firstly, wander down Old Town in Ipoh and discover the street arts and cute streets. You can also visit the city's gem such as Kellie's Castle and Birch Memorial Clock Tower. Once you're done exploring Ipoh's beautiful landmark and art, take a trip to Cameron Highlands. Image Credit: Strawberry Farms on visitmalaysia.info Meanwhile, at Cameron Highlands, you can bring your family out for some outdoor activities. Don't miss out on fun activities like strawberry picking in the strawberry farm, visiting the butterfly farm, and exploring the lavender garden. At the end of the day, spend some quality family time over steamboat in Cameron Highlands. 5. Johor Bahru to Mersing Image Credit: Legoland Malaysia on Facebook Our trip down to Johor Bahru will always be about the food or groceries on the usual days. How about a short getaway, let's say a 2-days 1-night trip with a detour to Mersing? In less than 2 hours drive, you can get to Mersing from Johor Bahru. Over at Johor Bahru, you can visit Legoland, a popular theme park that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. Spend a day with your family here; enjoy the rides and attractions it has to offer. Image Credit: Kishor on Unsplash After having some fun at Legoland, you can drive to Mersing. Mersing is all about the beautiful beaches and white sands. You can opt for snorkeling and island hopping in Mersing if your family is up for it. My best take in Mersing is to book a resort and enjoy a relaxing time at the beaches with your loved ones. 6. Sepang to Genting Highlands Image Credit: Sepang International Circuit If you think that Sepang is only home to Kuala Lumpur International Airport, you are wrong. There are some fun-filled activities that you can do with your family here. In less than a 2 hours drive, you can get to Genting Highlands and the fun continues. Sepang is known for its Formula One race circuit, but if you're not in Sepang to watch one, head down to Avani Gold Coast Resort. You may choose to stay a night here or visit the Extreme Park for some activities like Go-kart, archery, and ATV jungle trail. Image Credit: Resorts World Genting Next, take a 2-hour drive to Genting Highlands. Enjoy the rides and attractions at the outdoor theme park, which caters to both kids and adults. You might also want to check the indoor theme park and video game park. Hop on the Awana Skyway; you can enjoy the spectacular view from a distance together with your loved ones. 7. Kuantan to Kuala Terengganu Image Credit: The Sungai Pandan Waterfall on Hotel Grand Continental Kuantan For me, Kuantan is an underrated city. Not many tourists visit this beautiful destination. In less than a 3-hour drive from Kuantan, you can reach your destination, Kuala Terengganu. In Kuantan, you can find several beautiful waterfalls. In my opinion, Sungai Pandan Waterfall will be an ideal spot if you are on this road trip with young kids or the elderly. Make a trip to Kula Cakes to eat the local's favorite Mango Cheesecakes. This store should be in every cheesecake lovers' list as they serve other unique flavors as well. Image Credit: Terengganu State Museum on Malaysia.travel After all that fun, drive to Kuala Terengganu for a heritage tour. Visit the Terengganu State Museum to learn about the history and culture of this place. Don't forget to also visit Pantai Batu Burok to enjoy the scenic beach view. 8. Bukit Tinggi to Kuala Selangor Image Credit: Berjaya Hills on visitmalaysia.info Another two locations that are off the beaten track should be on your list if you want to have a unique experience. It takes a 1.5-hour drive to get you to Kuala Selangor from Bukit Tinggi. The Japanese Tea House in Bukit Tinggi, also known as Berjaya Hills, offers you a soulful retreat. Explore the French-themed Colmar Tropicale and the zen-inspired Japanese garden. The rabbit farm is a must-visit for families; you can play and feed the cute little furry friends. Image Credit: Mount Melawati on The Star Next, drive to Kuala Selangor which takes about 1.5 hours. You can hike up Mount Melawati with your family and learn more about the history behind this notable hill. Also, make time to visit the Kuala Selangor Nature Park and walk through the mangroves. You can spot various species of birds here too! You should also try the Cendol Bakar. The preparation of the gula Melaka in this cendol is different from those of the normal cendol out there. 9. Banting to Sekinchan Image Credit: Tadom Hill Resorts This trip is catered to you if you're bringing along pre-teen kids or older who are adventurous and love outdoor activities. It takes 2 hours to reach Sekinchan by car from Banting. First, enjoy various adrenaline attractions in Banting. Head down to Tadom Hill Resorts, where you can enjoy activities like ATV and water swings. If you want to try some paragliding, you can hike up Bukit Jugra. Otherwise, you can just enjoy the scenic view from the peak with your family. Next, take a 2-hour drive to Sekinchan. Expect to see the lush green field of paddy in Sekinchan as it is home to the Paddy Processing Factory. Don't forget to drop by any of the small businesses selling tropical fruits nearby. The juicy giant mangoes, soursops, and guavas can quench your thirst over the hot day (Yum!). 10. Kota Kinabalu to Kundasang Image Credit: Sosodikon Hill on Facebook Located in Sabah, both Kota Kinabalu and Kundasang offers you scenic locations with fresh mountain air. Just about a 2-hour drive, you can get from Kota Kinabalu to Kundasang. You don't always have to hike up Mount Kinabalu when you're in Kota Kinabalu. If you still want to enjoy some mountain views but don't want to break a sweat, visit Sosodikon Hill. Don't forget to visit the Asquare Kota Kinabalu, the first creative container night food market in Kota Kinabalu. You will be spoilt for choices with over 60 varieties of food to choose from different street vendors. Image Credit: Desa Dairy Farm on Facebook Next, take a 2-hour drive to Kundasang. You can visit Desa Dairy Farm in Kundasang with the kids and feed the calves and goats while enjoying some freshly made gelato. I'm sure your kids will enjoy this activity! Also Read: 10 Tips On How To Prepare For A Road Trip There you have it, the 10 best family road trips in Malaysia. So what are you waiting for? Start planning for your next road trip to Malaysia now! via GIPHY ...
'Land below the wind', the land of Sabah is a beautiful amalgamation of forests, beaches, nature growing in its entirety. Located in the north of Borneo Island, it borders with Malaysia and Indonesia and also shares maritime borders with Vietnam and the Philippines. Thus, Sabah is a great central point for cultural experiences, tasty food adventures, nature lovers and enthusiasts. Discover Sabah's Indigenous Culture Believed that the earliest human settlement was up to 30,000 years ago, Sabah has been continuously a territory fought over. It is believed that the Han Dynasty associated with the land as well as following dynasties. Later on the Sultanate of Brunei, then Sultanate of Sulu, and eventually Malaysia, all affiliated and created strong ties with Sabah. Credit: nyenyedzi The indigenous people of Borneo are known as the dayak but this term includes up to 200 ethnic subgroups as well as an estimated 170 languages and dialects spoken on the island. Today, only a few hundreds actively practice these dialects. This highlights on the high risk of extinction of heritage and languages hence the active efforts to preserve the culture. Mari Mari Cultural Village Credit: Owl Ting Local Experiences Located in the depths of the beautiful forests, deep in the Borneo countryside lies the Mari Mari Cultural Village which allows you to explore the traditions of the Borneo culture. The website list 5 reasons to come to the cultural village and they are incredibly enticing; 1. You get to immerse yourself in quiet tranquil nature. 2. You get to have fun and be enriched in newfound Knowledge 3. You get 5 different tribes in 1 village. 4. You get to relax and leisure sightseeing. 5. You will be supporting the preserving culture and tradition to ensure it's not forgotten. The Mari Mari Cultural Village is easily the best attraction in Sabah if you're looking for something educational and fun. Located in the forest, you're greeted with an exotic experience, exploring the village in its most authentic form. You might even be able to walk through the village on the suspension bridge, across the river. Each tribe house is unique in its own way so be sure to look out for the tour guide that'll explain the practices of each tribe. Be sure to plan your trip wisely and go when it is not raining. Address: Inanam, 88450 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, MalaysiaOpening Hours: 10AM to 6PMContact: +60 13-881 4921Email: firstname.lastname@example.com Website Go Island and Beach Hopping The wildlife in Sabah is surrounded by a huge amount of beautiful islands and scuba diving sites, making it difficult to choose the best island to visit. Whether you want to relax on clear beaches and soak in the turquoise water or go scuba diving, these islands offer endless choices. Sipadan Island Credit: Island Travel Sipadan Island is one of the top scuba diving destinations with the view of the barracuda tornado. Bohey Dulang Credit: Tan Yilmaz on Flickr If you are looking for photographic sites, then Bohey Dulang, nicknamed as the Pearl Island, is an option for a picturesque holiday. Lankayan Credit: Diveplanit This Island is known for its wandering wildlife, such as fishes, turtles and even baby sharks. Less of a swimming destination but a thrilling contact with nature in its natural habitat. Mataking Credit: Mataking Mataking is famous for its Maldives like beaches with white sandy beaches, crystal clear water, it is the less popular alternative with the same effect. There are also options to have underwater weddings! Pulau Tiga- The filming site of the tv show "Survivor" it is special for its mud volcano and Snake Island. This island is there for the risk takers and adrenaline junkies. Hike Mount Kinabalu A world heritage site, Mount Kinabalu is also known to have similar biological species to plants of the Himalaya. Its extreme height towers to 4095 meters meaning the view from the dramatic peak are majestic. The highest point of the mountain also known as Low's peak (irony) is considered one of the safest and rewarding treks upwards. The trail upwards is accommodated to anyone with reasonable fitness, some parts of the mountain also have stairs with rails. In addition to that, there are also rest houses where you can check into assigned rooms and recharge and huts along the way where you can chat with locals and enjoy food and hot beverages. You should give yourself at least a day to 2 to conquer the mountain. For those with Hiking and rock climbing expertise, there are other trails which require rock climbing equipment. Website Adrenaline Junkie life in Sabah For those looking to do something different or experience an adrenaline activity in Sabah, you can try Mountain Bike Expeditions in and around Sabah as a tour. Cycling is a great way to explore. Paragliding over Lohan Village is available for all levels of expertise and the experience is safe and scenic. Credit: Borneo Ultra If you find running exciting and want to satisfy that high there is also challenging terrains available at Sabah Adventure Challenge. It's an international opportunity that unites people with a passion for running. Website | Facebook White water rafting at Liwagu River is a fun water sport that allows friends, family groups to experience water in a new exciting way. Credit: SabahEats Eat fresh and cheap seafood Sabah is renowned for its springy egg concentrated noodles, nicknamed the Gold Noodle of Sabah, it should not be missed! Make sure to taste Tuaran Noodles even if you do not visit the district. There are endless flavor combinations. Credit: Authentic World Food Due to the coastal nature of the state, seafood lovers will drown in the unlimited array of fresh seafood and most of them are fairly affordable! Some of the local options include Latok which is a type of seaweed and is eaten fresh with condiments as a salad. Your generic crab and lobsters are also available, grilled over the fire. If you are the type to try something different, sago worms known as Butod can be eaten in a variety of ways, offering nutritious protein. Sample local produce of Sabah Credit: Open Rice As for local produce, you can take back as gifts and souvenirs, Sabah does not disappoint. The Sabah chocolate comes in endless choices of exotic flavors including durian, pineapple, jackfruit, green tea, coconut oil and much more suited to your taste buds. Those not afraid of diabetes can dare to try Kuih Lidah also known as Tiriam, a beautiful cake covered in icing sugar and fried. On the salty side, if you want something unique to the island, Amplang is available which is a seafood crisp/cracker, it is a perfect representation of the state's love for fish. But, it should come as no surprise that there are also dried-salted seafood snacks, for those who love oyster, prawns, fish, and crab. Visit Kundasang: Sabah's New Zealand Credit: DESA Dairy Farm, Sabah If you want to experience New Zealand without breaking the bank then Kundasang is the place to be. Surrounded by immense green rolling fields and nature in the pasture, Kundasang is a cheaper version of New Zealand with not-so-obvious differences. Look out for the free-roaming cows and visit the Desa Dairy Farm and try all sorts of milk products, such as ice cream, yogurt, bottled milk, and even cheese! Address: Dr. Marcel Gisain, P.O.Box 71, 89308 Kundasang, Ranau, SabahAdmission Fee: RM5 (Adult) | RM4 (Children)Opening Hours: 8AM to 5PMContact: +60 88 889 562 Facebook Fish Foot or Body Massage Credit: Aroma Asian Enjoy Fish Massages and learn to withstand the tickle. Moroli River near Sabah Tea Garden is a river filled with the fishes that will make your skin silky smooth. You can enjoy a full body treatment or just your feet. If sitting around isn't your thing then you can trek through the water and enjoy the nature surrounding you. Address: Kampung Luanti Baru, Ranau, Malaysia Stargazing, Sunsets, and Sunrises Credit: MySabah.com For a unique experience of stargazing, Lasau Podi is one of the best locations for stargazing, since most locations are covered with pollution preventing a clear view of the sky. If you can't make it to Lasau Podi, try to find open spaces by beaches or fields. Sunset spots are always spectacular whether you are in a city or the countryside but pair it with beautiful surroundings the experience becomes more special. Some of the most popular destinations for viewers include KK Waterfront (right in the middle of the city) as the sun touches the edge of the water. For those who want to be away from the hustle and bustle, Mantanani Island in Kota Belud offers some of the prettiest views along the sandy white beaches. Credit: MySabah.com If you're hoping to be one of the first to do something, Pom Pom Island in Semporna is fairly new and is more of a private experience. As for those early risers that like to catch the worm, sunrise from Sabah Tea Garden is a treat alongside a piping cup of tea or coffee, overlooking the tea plantations. Soak in natural hot springs Credit: Wikipedia Poring Hot Springs is a great place to visit if you are looking for some hydrotherapy. The hot sulfur springs are formed by the volcanic rocks around the area. The springs are just a small fraction of Poring so make sure to explore the beautiful nature surrounding. There are outdoor bathtubs, as well as feet tubs and even private tubs. In addition to the hot springs, there are also cold water rock pools that are available for children and adults to swim and cool down. Finally, for more of a fun waterpark experience, there is a slide pool. Admission: RM15 (Foreigners) | RM3 (Locals)Contact: +60 88 878 801 Kinabatangan River Cruise Credit: River Junkie If Sabah hasn't given you enough to do yet, there is always a cruise available. The Kinabatangan River is the longest river in Sabah, reaching 560km. The cruise allows you to enjoy the rainforest and jungle experience whilst cruising peacefully. You'll come face to face with elephants, orangutans, all sorts of tropical birds. Some biologists consider this the most easily accessible wildlife in Southeast Asia. There are many tour outlets available depending on the duration of the ride and what you want to include in it. Either way, any package you choose will be a wholesome extraordinary experience. Sabah is a beautiful state, offering almost everything a holiday goer could dream off, so what are you waiting for! Plan your next family trip, add it to your destination list or just book a spontaneous trip to Sabah....
Great food, a bustling city, idyllic villages, little island paradises, beautiful beaches, and amazing hilly rainforests, Malaysia has it all! If you are starting to plan for your honeymoon, Malaysia should be number one on your list! There are many ideal honeymoon destinations in Malaysia, and you definitely won't be disappointed with what the country has to offer. Whether you love adventure or calm peaceful getaways, Malaysia has just the right place for you. via GIPHY Surrounded by luxury resorts, this country houses resorts that offer 5-star quality service right at your doorstep. While these may sound expensive, some high-end hotels and resorts have great honeymoon packages to offer which are affordable and are within anyone's price range. So put away your travel blues and read our list of 5 must-visit honeymoon destinations in Malaysia! 1. Kota Kinabalu, Sabah Where the old meets new — Kota Kinabalu is a mix of modern malls and expensive apartments surrounding old markets selling fresh seafood by the fishermen themselves. It is an exciting culinary scene which spans street stalls to high-end cuisine, along with burgeoning art and music culture! All while fiery sunsets watch over this exciting bustling seaside city. Activities and attractions If you are a couple who's up for an adventure - exploring new cultures, trying out new things - then Kota Kinabalu will not disappoint! Yes, the beach is great but what if you want to try something different? Visit the Mount Kinabalu, a World UNESCO heritage site valued for its biodiversity. Along the way visit the Mountain Garden to gain insight of its many flora and fauna and then head on to the Canopy Walkway for a bird's eye view of the surrounding rainforest. You can even enjoy a warm local lunch before taking a dip in the Poring natural hot springs. (Disclaimer: If you're feeling extra pumped up, trek the 13,435 ft Mount Kinabalu. Just note that it is not a few hour's hikes. Most trekkers have been trained beforehand prior to the hike. It definitely takes a lot of mental and physical strength.) Head over to Sepilok to pay a visit to the Wild Man, commonly referred to as the Orangutan, these great reddish-brown haired apes are peaceful and shy, living mostly in the treetops and are sadly critically endangered due to mass deforestation. The Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre offers a close-up view of the Orangutans in their natural habitat. Credit: Sabah Tourism Interested in exploring new cultures? Mari-Mari Cultural Village is the place to go. Mari Mari showcases the cultures and lifestyles of the various indigenous peoples of the Borneo region – the Bajau, Lundayeh, Murut, Rungus, and Dusun. You will witness their traditional handicrafts such as blowpipe making and tattooing, their different types of homes, and their culture as a tribe. You might even enjoy some tasty local nibbles along the way! Accommodation Shangri-La's Rasa Ria Resort and Spa Credit: Shangri-la's Rasa Ria Resort & Spa What better way to experience Kota Kinabalu than to stay at a nature resort, one of the best in the area is the luxurious Shangri-La's Rasa Ria Resort and Spa. Set amidst a nature reserve and overlooking the South China Sea, the resort offers the best of both sea and rainforest. Shangri-La's Rasa Ria Resort and Spa's relaxing rooms are furnished with earthy toned elegant furniture inclusive of all the standard amenities such as a flat-screen TV, minibar and tea/coffee making facilities as well as bathroom toiletries and bathrobes. Guests can choose between the rainforest view, garden view or sea view rooms, with private balconies, offering you a private calm and relaxing view to enjoy with your partner. The hotel also offers a secluded beach area as well as an outdoor pool area which offers stunning views of the sea and hotel. With a calm and relaxed atmosphere surrounding the hotel, it is the ideal resort for a couple's retreat. You can approach their 24-hour front desk to inquire about activities such as horse riding and jungle trekking. Address: Pantai Dalit, PO Box 600, Tuaran, Sabah, 89208 MalaysiaContact No.: (60 88) 797 888 Website | Email | Facebook Borneo Beach Villas Credit: Borneo Beach Villas If you are looking for a budget-friendly vacation, Borneo Beach Villas is definitely a great option. Offering all the basic hotel facilities such as WiFi at the lobby and cafe, pool as well as a beach area with white sands, the hotel is ideal to accommodate you for your honeymoon in Malaysia. Their Spa Suites include a private steam bath and hot tub, whilst the villas include a private lap pool, all guest rooms and villas include satellite TV along with a DVD player, inbuilt bathrooms with toiletries. The room furnishings are minimal and comfy and provide sea views. The hotel gardens are well kept and lead you towards the white beach with lazy waves lapping against the sand. All the suites and villas include a fully equipped kitchen which would be ideal if you're thinking of whipping up a meal with your partner. The hotel is surrounded by seafood restaurants and groceries, this is a great option if you are trying to stick to a budget or you could order a la carte from the hotel cafe. Address: 163, Pool Villa & Locked Bag 100, Karambunai, 88993 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, MalaysiaContact number: +60 16-832 9302 / +60 16 832 9340 Website | Email 2. Penang Penang is where all Eastern cultures converge to create one big melting pot of thrills. A cosmopolitan city dappled with old world charm, Penang is a perfect romantic setting for a couple looking for adventure! Activities and attractions This city has much to offer with a thriving art scene and culinary delights at almost every street corner this island has an adventure at every turn! Make your way to George Town to witness the amazing and interactive murals and wire art. Be sure to find the legendary Bruce Lee mural and snap a few badass pics with your partner! Most of the artworks can be found along Armenian Street and Acheh Street. George Town as a whole is going to be a memorable experience, with colonial buildings and old houses as well as a myriad of hawker stalls. Some of the must-try dishes are Penang Assam Laksa, Nasi Kandar and Penang Teochew Chendul which is a sweet treat! Another popular destination is the Penang Hill which is 2733 feet above sea level, and has the steepest tunnel track in the world! Take the funicular train ride to the top of the hill and enjoy the panoramic view of George Town, the day and evening views are equally stunning, however, when dusk sets in and George Town begins to light up, it adds a sense of romance – enjoy the spectacular view of Penang at night and if you want to stay longer the last train leaves the top of the hill at 11 pm! Also, be sure to explore the 1.6km nature trail of Penang Hill. It features suspended walkways amongst the canopies and, viewing platforms as well as pocket gardens. With its exquisite flora, you and your partner will not get bored. Accommodation Cheong Fatt Tze – The Blue Mansion Buildings and houses in Penang have uniquely styled architecture, so where can you get the full experience of living in the colonial times? At none other than Cheong Fatt Tze – The Blue Mansion! Credit: Cheong Fatt Tze - The Blue Mansion on Facebook A beautiful 1880s mansion known for its iconic blue-hued walls which are a result of an indigo-based limewash was which common in George Town at the time. The boutique hotel has 18 personalized rooms divided into four categories – the Liang Collection, Ming Collection, Tang Suites, and Han Suites. Credit: Cheong Fatt Tze - The Blue Mansion on Facebook The staff are friendly and will take you through all the amenities included in the rooms, the rooms themselves are beautiful with intricate detailing and colonial era style furniture you can experience the true essence of a time gone by. All the rooms include the basic amenities such as cable TV, attached bathroom with a bathtub, air-conditioning etc. The Tang and Han suites include direct pool access. The hotel has two restaurants, the main restaurant being Indigo, which offers a west meets the east cuisine, while the Courtyard offers anything from Nutella crepes to Nasi Lemak. Spend the day lounging with a cup of coffee at the Courtyard and make a surprise dinner reservation at the Indigo restaurant for a romantic candlelit dinner with your loved one. Address: 14, Leith Street, 10200 Penang, MalaysiaContact number: +604 262 0006 Website | Email | Facebook | Instagram Hotel Jen Credit: Hotel Jen By Shangri-La If you want a more contemporary stay at Penang head over to Hotel Jen, located at the bustling center of George Town, close to the commercial area of the city. Their rooms include all the basic amenities, the hotel also offers a 24-hour gym and a free shuttle service to the beach. The hotel is located close to Penang's markets and commercial shopping centers. Address: Magazine Road, George Town, Penang, 10300, MalaysiaContact number: (60 4) 262 2622 Website | Facebook | Instagram 3. Langkawi An archipelago of 99 islands, Langkawi is surrounded by turquoise waters with white sandy beaches lined with swaying coconut trees. The inland landscape is made up of picturesque paddy fields and jungle-clad hills. Activities and attractions Have your perfect romantic getaway in one of the three famous beaches in Langkawi – Pantai Cenang, if you are looking to try water sports, Tengah, Tanjung Rhu which is more secluded beach and great to take a walk along with your partner. Looking for something more thrilling? Why not go for a walk on the 124 meters long, 700 m above sea level Sky Bridge? It offers spectacular views of some of Langkawi's main attractions, the only way to get there is by cable car! A little fun fact: a scene from the 2006 Bollywood movie 'Don: The Chase Begins Again' was filmed on this bridge. If you truly want to experience nature, hike Gunung Raya, the highest peak in Langkawi. Standing at 881m the hill offers panoramic views of the island; the legend behind the island is that it is the cursed form of the giant Mat Raya who once inhabited the mountain. The hill forest houses some of Malaysia's exotic wildlife like the flying foxes, great hornbills, leaf monkey, and macaques as well as other forest dwellers. Once you have covered the land sky why not go for an underwater walk, and no, it does not involve diving. Head over to Underwater World, and take the 15m underwater tunnel where you can get a close-up view of sharks, turtles and other sea life. Why not have a fairytale ending to your stay at Langkawi? Visit Taman Lagenda, a folk-lore themed park which is an open-air garden museum that is sure to whisk you away from reality and would make a perfect setting for a nice romantic walk. Accommodation Meritus Pelangi Beach Resort and Spa Credit: Meritus Pelangi Beach Resort and Spa To truly experience tropical tranquillity choose to stay at the Meritus Pelangi Beach Resort and Spa in Langkawi. Their 355 rooms are clustered into wooden chalets all including private balconies which open to stunning views of the property and island. All rooms include the basic amenities that are expected at a five-star hotel. The hotel has two restaurants; Spice Market which is the main restaurant is inspired by the ancient spice route – combining the East with the West. The second restaurant called CBA will offer you the perfect tropical dining experience. The hotel grounds are beautiful and are great for an early morning walk after breakfast, before heading to the secluded beach. Address: Pantai Cenang, 07000 Langkawi, Kedah Darul Aman, MalaysiaContact number: +60 4 952 8888 Website | Email Holiday Villa Beach Resort and Spa Credit: Holiday Villa Beach Resort and Spa If you are looking for a more pocket-friendly place check in at the four-star Holiday Villa Beach Resort and Spa located only 15mins away from Langkawi international airport. The hotel is a vast property, offering great views of the beach and surrounding islands. All the rooms include the basic hotel room amenities. Be sure to check their romantic getaway offers on their website. Address: Lot 1698, Pantai Tengah, Mukim Kedawang, Daerah Langkawi, 07000 Kedah Darulaman, MalaysiaContact number: +60 4 952 9999 Website | Email 4. Tioman The biggest and most popular island in the Eastern Peninsula of Malaysia, Tioman Island is a thrill seekers paradise! Activities and attractions Famous for Diving and snorkeling, Tioman offers the best underwater experience to tourists. Most resorts on the island have a house reef, where you can snorkel right in front of your cabana, also snorkeling is a great option for non-divers! Tioman Island almost has no roads so you'll have to do a light trek through the jungle to get from place to another, if you are a nature lover this definitely the right spot for you. The two most popular treks are the Tekek to Juara which is two hours and the trek from Tekek all the way to Monkey Bay. For activities like kayaking, jet skiing and other water sports Tekek beach, slang beach and genting beach are your best options. Tioman also has some beautiful waterfalls and these can be accessed by a light trek or a short boat ride, one the most famous waterfalls is the Mukut Waterfall, the largest waterfall on the Island is the Asah waterfall which is a 45 minute trek away from Mukut village, if trekking isn't your thing opt for the boat ride. Accommodation Tunamaya Beach Resort and Spa Credit: Tunamaya Beach Resort and Spa on Facebook Make your Tioman Island, Malaysia, dreams come true! Choose to stay at the Tunamaya Beach Resort and Spa for a luxurious tropical island experience. They also promise a great honeymoon experience so do check their honeymoon offers! They have a total of 54 villas which are built to offer the utmost privacy to their guests; you have the choice of choosing between the garden view, rainforest view and the sea view villas. The villas come equipped with all the basic hotel room amenities ensuring that you are comfortable and at home during your stay. Address: Lot 20 & 21, Sarang Burung, Kg. Mukut, 26800 Pulau Tioman, Pahang, MalaysiaContact number: +607-7668886/ 8887/8888 Website | Email | Facebook | Instagram Paya Beach Resort Credit: Paya Beach Spa & Dive Resort on Facebook Looking for a place that offers great service for affordable prices? Opt for the Paya Beach Resort, which also offers a great romantic getaway offer for couples. The resort offers villas and chalets as well as lodges as accommodation for guests, the villas are recommended for a romantic getaway. Address: Kampong Paya, Pulau Tioman, MalaysiaContact number: +65 6733 4333 (Overseas) Website | Email | Facebook | Instagram 5. Pangkor Pangkor translates to 'beautiful island' in Thai, and it definitely lives up to its name. The island is mostly mountainous and has rocky history due it being a center for piracy in the past! However, these days it's just an idyllic tropical island where the main livelihood is fishing. Activities and attractions If you are interested in water sports, head over to Bogak or Nipah beach, you can try out banana-boat rides, and jet skiing. Pangkor town is the place to go if you want to try some authentic Pangkor cuisine as many local restaurants serving the most delectable dishes can be found. Go for a jungle trek to burn off the calories after eating all that food, the best hike is the Pangkor Hill hike. If you want to do something a little more Zen pay visit to Fu Lin Kung, a Taoist temple built at the foot of Pangkor hill. You can also pay a visit to the Kali Amman temple, which is the only Hindu temple on the island. Don't forget to check out the Dutch Fort as well, built in the 17th century to regulate tin trade form foreign ships. Another interesting historical spot is the Batu Bersurat (Tiger Rock), the large boulder has historical inscriptions referring to a child and tiger with the initials of the Dutch East India Company engraved into it as well. Book a boat ride to Pulau Jarak, a secluded island with great Marine life, and it would be a great activity to experience with your partner. You can even rent a boat for the day and explore the surrounding scenery of the island if you are more adventurous hire a canoe! Accommodation Pangkor Laut Resort Credit: Pangkor Laut Resort One of the most famous resorts in Pangkor and possibly Malaysia is the Pangkor Laut Resort, named after the island itself and ranked number 1 in the World by Condé Nast Traveller and referred to as a paradise by the late Pavarotti! Offering comfort, warmth and contemporary elegance the villas are situated amongst the hills, lush gardens and on wooden stilts over the tropical sea. The villas are fully equipped with the usual amenities found in guest rooms assuring you have all the comforts you need during your stay. They have a great honeymoon offer so be sure to check it out! Address: Pangkor Laut Island, 32200 Lumut, Perak, MalaysiaContact number: +60 3 2783 1000 Website | Email | Facebook | Instagram Sandy Beach Resort Credit: Pangkor Sandy Beach Resort on Facebook If you want to go for a more budget-friendly option the Sandy Beach Resort will be ideal for your stay on Pangkor Island. Nestled on the golden sands of the beach you can choose between rooms or chalets, the chalets are ideal if you are looking for privacy and they face the Pasir Bogak beach, who doesn't want to wake up to the blue waters of the sea lapping against the sandy beach? Address: 30, Jalan Pasir Bogak, 32300 Pulau Pangkor, Negeri PerakContact number: +605 6853027, +605 6853037 Website | Email | Facebook | Instagram Hopefully, this list gave you some insight for planning your Malaysia honeymoon itinerary. Are you excited for your Malaysia honeymoon?!...
When we speak of honeymoon, it does not necessarily have to be on the other side of the world. These destinations in Asia are perfect if you're looking forward to an exotic escape from reality. There are many beautiful Muslim-friendly honeymoon destinations you will love where your own privacy is ensured and where you can have a memorable experience. Keep reading and we'll tell you more! 1. Maldives The Maldives has always been one of the top Muslim honeymoon destinations with some of the most beautiful white sandy beaches surrounded by the Indian Ocean. The Maldives is considered as the top honeymoon destination for Muslim couples since there are many beautiful private Halal resorts and villas to choose from islands like Male. Halal honeymoon tour packages in Asia usually ensure that Halal meals and amenities will be provided. Muslim travelers on their honeymoon can enjoy a range of activities such as scuba diving, water skiing, swimming and island hopping as well while being surrounded bygorgeous ocean scenery. 2. Thailand Thailand has always been one of the top holiday and honeymoon destinations in the world, with its rich history, beautiful beaches and amazing food. It is also now one of the ideal honeymoon destinations for Muslim couples as there is an increase in Halal-friendly amenities. The city of Bangkok has plenty to offer with shopping and entertainment while islands like Phuket, Koh Yao Noi,Krabi and Koh Samui are some of the best Muslim honeymoon destinations with fun activities, sightseeing and relaxation. Most honeymoon tour packagesto Thailand and its islands have something for everyone so Muslim travelers can get some great deals in an affordable price range. 3. Sri Lanka This beautiful island is one of the Muslim-friendly honeymoon destinations you never thought ofand where the importance of Halal tourism is has become more recognized too. There are resorts and hotels that are willing to provide Halal amenities and meals for Muslim travelers on their honeymoon and Halal honeymoon tour packages to places like Galle, Yala, NuwaraEliya and more. With beautiful historical places to visit, entertainment, good cuisine and more, Sri Lanka has become a one of the ideal Muslim honeymoon destinations. 4. Malaysia A beautiful country with many sights to see, engaging activities, gorgeous beaches and great cuisine, there is something for everyone visiting Malaysia -which makes this country one of the best honeymoon destinations for Muslim couples. Malaysia is another great place to find Halal friendly resorts with Halal amenities and with beautiful islands to visit as well. Most Halal honeymoon tour packages in Asia have some reasonable offers. The city of Kuala Lumpur including places like Penang and Kota Kinabalu have different and interesting experiences to offer Muslim travelers. 5. Indonesia Indonesia is another one of the best Muslim-friendly honeymoon destinations you never thought of, and there have been more improvements to provide Halal-friendly amenities for Muslim travelers. Not only are there scenic islands and beautiful beaches but fun activities like surfing, scuba diving, snorkeling and much more that Muslim travelers on their honeymoon can engage in. This making places like Bali, Lombok and Sumatra great honeymoon destinations for Muslim couples. There are Halal honeymoon tour packages on offer to Bali and Indonesia where Muslim travelers can enjoy a Halal friendly honeymoon. Check for more honeymoon destinations ...


text:
We have a
new Vicar!
Colin (11) and Ellie (7) have now been accepted into local schools and
have both started to make friends in the village, they are both taking this big
move in their stride.
Catherine will be continuing to work at Coffee Tots (cafe / parenting
project in Coventry) part-time but intends to be fully involved in village
Greg is on sabbatical, a time of recuperation as he distances himself
from his old role at Urban Hope before fully engaging with the new, having said
that he has been able to meet up with members of St Peter's and St James's
churches and attended community events.
As we discover more about the ongoing work that already takes place
within the churches and the wider communities we are finding that our
excitement grows, this is a good place to be and we are thrilled to be
journeying with you.
God is good!
Greg Catherine Colin and Ellie
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New information following the change in COVID-19 alert levels. massey.ac.nz/coronavirus
Professor Christoph Schumacher, winner of the 2018 Research Translation Competition.
Massey Business School's Professor Christoph Schumacher has won the 2018 Research Translation Competition for his summary of an academic paper about healthcare funding in New Zealand.
The annual Massey Business School competition, which asks academics to explain their research in simple terms, was opened to all New Zealand business schools for the first time this year.
Professor Schumacher's article explained New Zealand's complex system for funding district health boards based on the demographic characteristics and size of the population in each district.
Using Ministry of Health records for around 7.5 million publicly funded "hospital events", Professor Schumacher and his colleagues found the system leads to New Zealand's large teaching hospitals being underfunded for their work
"If our funding system disadvantages tertiary providers, that's a serious problem," Professor Schumacher says. "It means funding for treating the most difficult cases is insufficient and implies that resources are being inefficiently allocated to less severe cases."
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A total of 35 entries from eight tertiary institutions were entered in this competition and the other prize winners were:
All four prize winners will present their research at a special awards ceremony at Massey University on Tuesday November 27, where they will be recognised for their ability to make their research accessible to a non-academic audience.
"The annual Research Translation Competition asks business researchers to distil an academic paper into an engaging two-page article," says event organiser Professor Kambiz Maani.
"Entries are judged on the quality of the research, its usefulness to the wider business community and the extent to which the impact of the research can be easily understood. This year's winners were successful on all three fronts."
The Massey Business School was recognised by the global accreditation body AACSB (Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business) for the competition's innovative approach in 2016.
"Business school research is often criticised for being irrelevant to the real world," says Massey Business School director of research Professor Tim Bentley.
"We started this competition to build the communication capabilities of our staff because it's crucial the knowledge that results from what is often publicly-funded research is made accessible to those who can benefit from it."
Research Translation Competition 2018 Awards Ceremony
Tuesday November 27, 12-2pm
Massey Business School Building, Room 2.15
To register to attend: http://bit.ly/RTC2018-Massey
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Rockingham Motor Speedway
The "oval" speedway
The road courses
|Northamptonshire, England
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|Major events
|Champ Car World Series
British Superbikes
British F3
Pickup Truck Racing
British GT Championship
|Oval Circuit
|1.479 mi (2.38 km)
|3.5 – 7.9º
|Lap record
|0:24.719 [2] ( Tony Kanaan, Lola–Ford, 2001, CCWS)
|International Super Sports Car Long Circuit [3]
|2.05 mi (3.299 km)
|7.0º (turn 1)
|International Super Sports Car Circuit
|1.94 mi (3.12 km)
|7.0º (turn 1)
|National Circuit
|1.70 mi (2.74 km)
|Lake Circuit
|0.67 mi (1.08 km)
|Handling Circuit
|0.97 mi (1.56 km)
|Rally Stage
|0.62 – 1.23 mi (1.00 – 1.98 km)
|15 (approx)
Rockingham Motor Speedway is a modern motorsport venue in the United Kingdom and Europe's fastest racing circuit,[citation needed] hosting corporate driving days, driver training, conferencing & exhibitions, vehicle manufacturing events, track days, testing, driving experiences and motorsport. It is also the only intermediate oval in the UK and unique in its quadrilateral shape.[citation needed]
Located in Northamptonshire, Rockingham falls under the control of two local authorities. The main entrance is in Corby but the actual track is situated in East Northamptonshire.[citation needed]
Rockingham is easily accessible from the A1, M1, A14, A43 and A6116, and is located 30 minutes from Leicester, Peterborough and Northampton.
The nearest railway station is Corby, which is two miles from the circuit and runs an hourly direct service to London St Pancras International.
- 1 The Circuit
- 2 History
- 3 Records
- 4 Major racing results
- 5 Other activities
- 6 Filming
- 7 References
- 8 External links
The Circuit
Rockingham has 13 configurations of track, which can be used for anything from touring cars to motorcycles to rally cars. The circuit is overlooked by the 6280 seat Rockingham Building, a steel-framed, glass-fronted grandstand building containing suites, offices, bars and kitchens, and by four grandstands. Together the building and grandstands offer a total seating capacity of 52,000. The inner pit and paddock complex is accessed from the Rockingham Building via two pedestrian tunnels and there is a further spectator viewing area on top of the pit garages.[1]
The Oval Circuit
The 1.48 mile American-style banked oval circuit is 18.3 metres wide and has a maximum bank angle of 7 degrees and comprises four very distinct corners. Rockingham's oval is unique in the UK and one of only two speedways in Europe. The oval circuit can also be converted to a road course layout for events by positioning temporary chicanes and curves both on the main area and apron of the circuit.
Over the weekend of 20–22 September 2001, the Champ cars came to England for the first time to contest the Rockingham 500, a round of the CART (Championship Auto Racing Teams) Fedex Championship Series. For various reasons the race distance was shortened to 300 km and victory was snatched on the exit of Turn Four of the last lap by Gil de Ferran driving the Marlboro Team Penske Honda –powered Reynard 01i at a race average speed of 153.41 mph from Kenny Bräck at the wheel the Team Rahal Lola-Ford Cosworth B1/00, and the Newman-Haas Racing Lola-Toyota B1/00 driven by Cristiano da Matta. The fastest lap, and therefore outright lap record was set by Patrick Carpentier in 25.551secs (210.59 mph) in the Player's Forsythe Racing Reynard-Cosworth. Carpentier became for first Canadian to ever hold the outright lap record at an English circuit.[4]
The US-based series returned in September 2002. This would be last time Champ Cars raced at this facility. This time ran over the full distance of 500 km, Scotland's Dario Franchitti took the chequered flag in his Team KOOL Green Lola-Honda, beating Cristiano da Matta by just 0.986 of a second .[5]
The International Super Sportscar Circuit (ISSC)
The ISSC is 1.94 miles long and between 18.3 and 11 metres wide, with a maximum bank angle of 7 degrees at turn 1. Rockingham's International Super Sportscar Circuit is used by the Dunlop MSA British Touring Car Championship as well as for most other car race events. The circuit combines long straights, sweeping high-speed bends (including the infamous Turn 1 and Gracelands) with a lower speed, highly technical infield layout. Average lap speeds around the circuit range from 1m 24s in the BTCC to 1m 12s in British F3.
Wet Handling Facility
The site has a wet handling area with a kick plate which is used to simulate a variety of driving conditions including ice, rain and slippery wet leaves. These different road conditions are simulated at much slower speeds than in normal driving and in a fully controlled environment. The area is designed to give drivers a greater understanding of the latest ABS, traction control and crash mitigating technologies, and the way that they affect vehicle control.
Construction of Rockingham started late in 1999, with the opening meeting planned for May 2001.[4]
Rockingham Motor Speedway was constructed on a British Steel works brown field site as a banked oval with the intention of bringing the American oval racing across the Atlantic for the first time. The opportunity was taken to use the infield for further circuits.[2][4]
After almost ten years of planning and 23 months of construction work, Rockingham opened for business on Monday 15 January 2001. It was formally opened by the Queen on 26 May 2001.[2]
Oval lap records
Rockingham is Europe's fastest banked oval racing circuit, with the lap record for the 1.47 miles (2.37 km) oval set at 24.719 seconds by Tony Kanaan in his Lola-Ford Champ Car on 22 September 2001 – an average speed of 215.397 miles per hour (346.648 km/h). Rockingham is the first purpose-built banked oval in the UK since Brooklands in 1907. It has an all-seating capacity of 52,000, and has both an oval and a racing circuit.[2]
|Champ Car
|22 September 2001
|Tony Kanaan
|Lola-Ford B1/00
|24.719sec (215.397 mph)
Road course lap records
International Super Sports Car Circuit
Lap records around the International Super Sports Car Circuit
|British Formula Three
|30 September 2007
|Marko Asmer
|Dallara-Mercedes F307
|1m 12:620 (96.17 mph)
International Super Sports Car Long Circuit
Lap records around the International Super Sports Car Long Circuit
|British Formula Three
|10 June 2012
|Jack Harvey
|Dallara-Volkswagen F312
|1m 18:627 (93.94 mph)
Major racing results
CART Championship
|Rockingham 500 +
|Gil de Ferran
|Reynard Honda 01i
|Sure For Men Rockingham 500
|Dario Franchitti
|Lola Cosworth B2/00
+ Race shortened due to lack of practice. [5][8]
British Formula Three season
British Touring Car Championship
British Superbike Championship
+ Qualification cancelled due to dangerous track conditions, grid decided by championship positions.
Other Events
The Rockingham Stages
On 12 December 2004, the first Stage Rally, the Rockingham Stages, was held at the venue. This was jointly promoted by Middlesex County Automobile Club and Thame Motorsport Club.
|Overall Winner
|John Stone
|Lee Carter
|MG Metro 6R4
|John Stone
|Lee Carter
|MG Metro 6R4
|Steve Simpson
|Mark Booth
|Hyundai Accent WRC
|Steve Simpson
|Simon Hunter
|Hyundai Accent WRC
|Steve Simpson
|Simon Hunter
|Hyundai Accent WRC
|Steve Simpson
|Simon Hunter
|Hyundai Accent WRC
|Steve Simpson
|Simon Hunter
|Hyundai Accent WRC
|Tony Racey
|Paul Heath
|Subaru Impreza
|Pete Rayner
|Aron Rayner
|Ford Escort Mk.II
|Paul King
|Alicia Miles
|Ford Escort RS
Oval racing
From 2001 to the end of 2007, Rockingham organised and funded American-style Stockcar racing on the oval. Originally known as ASCAR, the series changed name to "Days of Thunder", and then to SCSA (Stock Car Speed Association), before re-branding to the MAC Tools V8 Trophy for its final season in 2007. All cars were UK variants of the American "ASA National-Tour" Howe Racing chassis, running with either Ford, Chevrolet or Pontiac bodies. A change of circuit ownership for 2006 saw the end of promotion and funding for the series, and low grids in 2007 led the organising club (BRSCC) to amalgamate it with a road course series, and eventually to the demise of both championships before the end of 2008.
Other activities
The circuit is operational 357 days a year and the majority of events that take place at the venue are not motorsport competitions. Events range from manufacturer product launches to dealer training, track days and testing, and corporate and experience days.
Fifth Gear have recorded many items for the TV show at Rockingham including:
- Lexus LFA Hot Lap
- Nissan GTR
- Tiff sideways in the Porsche GT3 RS
- Audi S5 v BMW 335i Shoot-Out
- Audi TT DSG v Audi TT Manual Shoot-Out
- Ford vs Ford
- Nissan GTR vs Mitsubishi EVO FQ 400
- Dukes of Hazard v Starsky & Hutch Shoot-Out
Wheeler Dealer also filmed an item on the Jaguar XJ8 and Top Gear came to Rockingham for the Alfa Romeo challenge. The recent PlusNet TV Advert was filmed on the oval and it is also the location where Ant & Dec's Saturday Night Takeaway, 'Beat The Boys' contest was filmed.
Magazines and newspapers
The Telegraph and Fiat Punto held a track day at Rockingham in 2012 and published a number of articles featuring the circuit. Autosport's Caterham SP300R video review was made on the ISSC, and Car Magazine did a track test on the Nissan GT-R vs Porsche 911 Turbo in 2012 and a McLaren supercar group test in 2010. Car Dealer magazine reviewed the BMW M5 at Rockingham and compared it with a Mercedes E63 AMG, a Lexus ISF, a Porsche Panamera and an Infiniti M35h. The circuit also features on the Pistonheads website with videos showing the Caterham SP300 R and the new Astra VXR. Chris Harris on Cars showcased the BAC Mono.
The Learning Grid Rockingham Festival in the first week of July promotes science and engineering to school pupils.
Shows and exhibitions
The venue has a sizeable showground area which has hosted the following shows:
- The French Car Show
- The Site Equipment Demonstration (SED) Show
- Greenfleet
- The LCV Show
- Stobart Fest
- Japfest 2
- ↑ 1.0 1.1 http://www.rockingham.co.uk/about/rockingham-circuits.php
- ↑ 2.0 2.1 2.2 2.3 2.4 http://www.rockingham.co.uk/about/about-rockingham.php
- ↑ "Event Details - 15th/16th October - Rockingham". tsl-timing.com.<templatestyles src="Module:Citation/CS1/styles.css"></templatestyles>
- ↑ 4.0 4.1 4.2 Peter Swinger, "Motor Racing Circuits in England : Then & Now" (Ian Allan Publishing, ISBN 0 7110 3104 5, 2008)
- ↑ 5.0 5.1 "2002 Sure for Men Rockingham 500K". champcarstats.com.<templatestyles src="Module:Citation/CS1/styles.css"></templatestyles>
- ↑ http://www.fota.co.uk/circuitprofile.php?action=showCircuit¶ms%5Bid%5D=rockingham
- ↑ "Harvey wins in style at Rockingham". formula3.co.<templatestyles src="Module:Citation/CS1/styles.css"></templatestyles>
- ↑ "2001 Rockingham 500K". champcarstats.com.<templatestyles src="Module:Citation/CS1/styles.css"></templatestyles>
- ↑ "TouringCars.Net » Results". touringcars.net.<templatestyles src="Module:Citation/CS1/styles.css"></templatestyles>
- ↑ "BTCC - Results". btcc.net.<templatestyles src="Module:Citation/CS1/styles.css"></templatestyles>
- ↑ "Motorcycle Racing Online - British Superbike race winners 1987 to 1992". Motorcycle Racing Online.<templatestyles src="Module:Citation/CS1/styles.css"></templatestyles>
- ↑ "british-superbikes". lineone.net.<templatestyles src="Module:Citation/CS1/styles.css"></templatestyles>
- ↑ http://motorsportwinners.com/category/current-seriesevents/motorcycles/
- ↑ "Rockingham Stages". rockinghamstages.co.uk.<templatestyles src="Module:Citation/CS1/styles.css"></templatestyles>
External links
- Rockingham.co.uk – Rockingham official site
- Pickup Truck Racing
- Satellite image by Google Maps
|Wikimedia Commons has media related to Rockingham Motor Speedway.


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The Nova Rotaflex 26 series torch is based on the standard 26 series torch available throughout the industry. The Nova 26 series torch uses Nova 17, 26 or 18
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Everlast offers a wide variety of welding parts and accessories.
Consumables are important components for manufacturing industries and the overall welding process.
Guns and Torches
There is a variety of welding equipment, which includes a wide range of guns, gears and torches. Each piece of equipment serves a different purpose. For example: MIG welding will require different equipment from plasma cutting processes.
Helmets and Safety
Investing in the right welding helmet is a smart and convenient way to enjoy added protection. Still, welding is a potentially dangerous activity, forcing welders to avoid burns, electric shock, eye damage, poisonous fumes, and overexposure to ultraviolet light and radiation. Everlast safety helmets are thus a necessity for welders.
Mig Tig Stick (MTS)


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