text:
Keystone College (PA)
12 years
Qualified Private Coach
Passed Coach Course
Daniel A.
Background Check VerifiedLearn More
This coach has passed an identification, basic background, and sex offender check.
Veteran Softball Coach with 10 years experience Former Varsity coach for 8 years Current youth summer softball coach for the past 5 years View all coaching experience
Training Locations
Coach is willing to travel up to 10 miles
1 session package with Coach Daniel. 60 minute session length
Session Length: 1 minute
$85 1 session + one-time fee
5 session package with Coach Daniel. 60 minute session length
Session Length: 1 minute
$385 5 sessions ($77/ea) + one-time fee
10 session package with Coach Daniel. 60 minute session length
Session Length: 1 minute
$755 10 sessions ($76/ea) + one-time fee
20 session package with Coach Daniel. 60 minute session length
Session Length: 1 hour
$1500 20 sessions ($75/ea) + one-time fee
Adults, Kids, Teenagers
Catcher, Infield, Pitcher
Fielding, Hitting, Baserunning
Keystone College (PA)
12 years
Qualified Private Coach
Passed Coach Course
Adults, Kids, Teenagers
Catcher, Infield, Pitcher
Fielding, Hitting, Baserunning
More About Coach Daniel
I have coaching softball for 13 years in NYC.
My coaching style is from my high school coach, which are mastering the physical fundamentals and learning the mental aspect of the sport as well.
I have been coaching mainly ages 10-21 years old (Junior High School - College level). The best part about coaching is when get the chance to coach an inexperience young player and see them progress overtime. Through this exuberant involvement, the player will see improvement and build confidence. My specialties are on the defensive side, including footwork, proper mechanics in throwing and catching and building mentality boost for their confidence. I teach every position, so it wouldn't matter which you would prefer to learn.
I always start my sessions with conditioning, followed by skill development. Each drill will involve continuous conditioning and building reaction so the body will be ready to last any duration. At the end of my practices, I like my athlete to feel they got the most out of the practice and the confidence to be ready for competition.
As a player, I didn't play baseball competitively; But, I always worked on my skill on my own. I am an all around athlete, including the captain position of my high school track and soccer teams and was made city championships in track and field.
As a coach, I started coaching when I was 15 years old, helping my high school team. I was designated to teaching the girls that had little to no experience and turn them into starting players. As a coach, I saw the playoffs every year with every team I have been with.
I have helped many girls get their skill level to college playing status.
My practices would start with warm up drills to loosen the muscles.
Next, depending on the position the player want to work on, I would start with soft grounders and soft close range throws to see what I would have to work on.
When knowing the type of player I will be working with, I will always try to make the drill little fun and try different techniques to force the body to adjust to make the improvements.
Action Photos
Client Reviews
Gabriel (CoachUp client)
Daniel was a great coach! We practiced hitting and fielding in a park close to where I live in Manhattan which was convenient. He gave me some great new tips on batting and throwing- basic things, but things that I did know before. Furthermore, he was easy to get along with and knowledgeable and friendly in his instruction. I highly recommend him.
Jim (CoachUp client)
Coach Daniel was great! He was very patient and helpful with his explanation of the basics of catching, hitting, and throwing. He had a lot of insight into how the game is played and what cues to look for in other players. He also spent some time analyzing my swing and throwing and giving really great pointers on how to improve. I would definitely recommend him for anyone new to softball.
Augie (CoachUp client)
Was very pleased with the session. My son is quite shy and Daniel was able to get him to respond as well as teach him some fundamentals which is exactly what we were looking for. I plan to expand my services with him as a result.
Ian (CoachUp client)
Daniel really goes the extra mile to make himself available to coach. My son says he has learnt a tremendous amount from Daniel, and he appears a very nice guy to boot!
Kiko (CoachUp client)
(no details provided)
Scott (CoachUp client)
(no details provided)
Brad (CoachUp client)
Great coach
Michael (CoachUp client)
I did one session with Coach Daniel and it was very helpful. I immediately improved some areas of my game that needed work. His techniques really focused attention on where I needed to improve and I saw improvements immediately in my next competition game. I highly recommend Coach Daniel.
Jack (CoachUp client)
Daniel was terrific. He took videos of my running and gave me specific, helpful advice. My form improved considerably by the end of the session.
David (CoachUp client)
Appreciated the patience and the fundamental approach that coach Daniel applied in the training session. Looking forward to applying all the principles and to progressively improve. Thank you .
Joseph (CoachUp client)
Coach Daniel did a great job! Daniel showed his desire to help and coach me also taught me many different techniques and tips which helped me improve in the area i was struggling in.
Ken (CoachUp client)
Coach Daniel was awesome. He gave me some excellent tips that I've never heard from any other coach that significantly improved my game including hitting, fielding and the outfield. Would absolutely recommend him. Great teacher and great coach who could make anyone not good at the sport good and anyone good better. Absolutely a 5-star coach all around
Neal (CoachUp client)
Daniel was a great coach, personable and on time. He spotted the issues with my swing mechanics immediately, recommended adjustments and helped me to implement easy to remember changes that created immediate results. He also helped with my throwing mechanics as an outfielder again spotting opportunities to correct my throwing motion and helped me with implementing the changes. Daniel is also personable and easy going. Highly recommended and someone that I will most certainly use again.
Damaani (CoachUp client)
Good Coach! Learned A Lot And Made Progress Just In One Session!
Gregory (CoachUp client)
Coach Daniel was professional on time and ready to work. He was immediately able to analyze my sprinting technique and give me an easy to understand analysis/demonstration of what I could do to improve my form. Even in just the first session he provided me with lots of tips and techniques that I will use to improve my sprints. Provided the right balance of work out and analysis for the hour. Would recommend for anyone looking to improve their sprinting and will book more sessions.
Iaisha (CoachUp client)
I bought a session with coach Daniel for my husband who is trying to improve his sprints speed. Coach Daniel was absolutely awesome! He gave him some really useful tips that are already making a difference. We would definitely recommend him.
Ingrid (CoachUp client)
Excellent advice on technicalities. Made it fun and easy
Curtis (CoachUp client)
5 Stars! Definitely book this guy. I was ready to play softball after 1 session. I was taught the basics and had a lot fun learning. A lot of information is given including tips and tricks. Also had a great softball game and was able to hold my own. A definite recommend!
Howard (CoachUp client)
Great coach
Dennis (CoachUp client)
(no details provided)
Sammy (CoachUp client)
Daniel was very helpful for my daughter's pitching practice. He was patient and supportive as well!
Jeffrey (CoachUp client)
Coach Daniel was great - he showed up on time and was able to handle multiple pitchers. Kids got a great session and felt improvement.
Duvet (CoachUp client)
Coach Daniel is very knowledgeable. In the sessions my whole approach, form and technique has changed.
Julia (CoachUp client)
Daniel helped me get better at pitching in our very first session!
Nichelle (CoachUp client)
Coach Daniel was an excellent coach. My daughter really enjoyed her lessons and learned. I will be getting more sessions soon.
Stephanie (CoachUp client)
My son trained his first session with Daniel for sprinting, and was very pleased with his approach and knowledge.
Carolina (CoachUp client)
An absolute professional, polite and friendly. He helped my son tremendously and we look forward to the next session. I highly recommend Coach Daniel. He responds right away and is very accommodating. Thank you!
Nicholas (CoachUp client)
Coach Dan helped me with my throwing, very good coach and an easygoing person made for a very productive and comfortable lesson. He doesn't over coach, which is good, but rather gives you the proper technique and allows you to repeat the exercise as much as you need to learn the technique by doing. I highly recommend coach Dan for private softball coaching!
Michele (CoachUp client)
My daughter LOVED her session with Coach Daniel. She feels like she really improved her swing, thought he had great equipment for her to use, and had an all-around wonderful time working with him. We highly recommend a session with Coach Daniel.
McKinley (CoachUp client)
I had my first session with Daniel last week.
Immediately after our 1 hour training. I had my company softball game. Implementing some of the techniques he showed me while they were still fresh in my head. I noticed an improvement in my hitting. I felt the session was valuable. And I'm looking forward to more 1 on 1 time.
Catherine (CoachUp client)
Coach did was great. Very patient and encouraging. My daughter got a great deal out of just one session. We will definitely book additional sessions.
Seth (CoachUp client)
He was great. In less then 15 minutes, my swing had improved significantly. Highly recommend.
Carla (CoachUp client)
(no details provided)
Ed (CoachUp client)
Great coach. Works on fundamentals and knows his stuff. Worked well with my 9 year old too!
Nicholas (CoachUp client)
(no details provided)
Jessie (CoachUp client)
Couch Daniel is very knowledgeable and seemed to know a lot about every position. my batting skills have already improved and we only had one session. I am very exited to practice with him again.
Shamel (CoachUp client)
Coach Daniel seems like a well rounded coach. I got the sense that he actually enjoys what he does. He met me where I currently am and assessed my abilities. Almost immediately he game me feedback and we began working on mechanics. I am definitely looking forward to our next session and would refer him to other players.
Glenn (CoachUp client)
Coach Daniel was a great help in developing our pitching staff.
He was on time, knowlegable, and patient.
Thanks Daniel!
Johnson (CoachUp client)
(no details provided)
Paul (CoachUp client)
(no details provided)
Tina (CoachUp client)
My son enjoyed his session with Coach Daniel. My son felt relaxed with him. He improved so much from just one session. Coach Daniel was flexible. He adjusted his lesson, made last minute changes to his planned activity to make it more appropriate to my son's level. My son cannot wait for another lesson.
Daiana (CoachUp client)
I definitely liked today's practice, and I'm looking forward to learning even more at our next practice!
Lourdes (CoachUp client)
Coach Daniel is a great coach!
I would recommend Coach Daniel to anyone!
Paula (CoachUp client)
(no details provided)
Jon (CoachUp client)
Excellent workout. Very knowledgable
Maggie (CoachUp client)
During the lesson, Daniel gave me helpful tips on pitching and really helped me improve. He helped me find my full potential in my pitch. I strongly recommend him for anyone looking to improve in any aspect of softball.
Amy (CoachUp client)
Daniel has been great showing my 12 yo daughter proper techniques for fielding, throwing and pitching. He also gives us suggestions on ways to improve her throwing with exercises to do at home
Julia (Testimonial)I am 11 years old and I been playing baseball for 3 years. Once I started working with Daniel, I saw a lot improvements. He told me I was throwing wrong way and helped me throw right, now I throw harder with more strikes. He helped change the way I bat so I can have a quicker swing.
juli (Testimonial)I am 12 years old. This was my first year playing softball, Coach helped me work on outfield, second base and pitcher. I tried out for my fall league all star team and made it. Coach really put extra work with me. He made sure if I was willing to work hard, He would make me an all star. I am hoping to keep him as my coach for a long time.
Kim (Testimonial)I always been athletic and playing different sports. I started playing softball at 15 years old, but was nervous not knowing if I can be good at it. Daniel helped me develop my skill and gave me the confidence to be a starting for pitcher/center fielder for my high school team. After graduating High school and starting for three years, I have been playing for my college team for the past two years. He has always offered tips when ever I started to struggle and needed advice.
Yessenia (Testimonial)I started playing softball when I was a sophomore in high school. Daniel made sure I become the best player possible. He not only told what to do but demonstrated multiple time while giving reasons why he wasn't teaching it. By my senior year of high school, I won the title of most RBI's is the city. I also went on to play college softball at an Ivy league school. When on break from college, He made sure to still work with him to become better. I have to give most of my success to Daniel for making the player I became.
Share This Coach
CoachUp's Got Your Back
- Runs Sex Offender screening on every coach
- Ensures high quality coaches with verified reviews
- 100% money back guarantee
- Offers 24/7 support and helpful Athlete Advisors
- Easy payments via credit card, no need for cash
- Provides convenient scheduling with calendar integration
- Enables automated reminders before training sessions
- Captures post-session feedback directly from your coach


text:
Big-Eyelashes Trend at the American Music Awards 2012
American Music Awards Trend Alert: Lush Eyelashes
A red carpet always calls for amped-up glamour, but the eyelashes at the 2012 American Music Awards were above and beyond. With loads of mascara and plenty of false lashes thrown in for good measure, three ladies made this look something to talk about. Always one for over-the-top style, Nicki Minaj donned heavy top lashes that brought a seductive edge to her appearance. Taking the mod look to modern times, Ginnifer Goodwin exaggerated her bottom lashes by clumping them together and adding multiple coats of mascara. And Ke$ha kept things even more alluring with fanned-out lower lashes that you could see across the room.
To nail the trend, reach for a lengthening mascara, such as Benefit They're Real! Mascara ($23), or pick up a pack of individual lashes, like these ones from Make Up For Ever ($16). Whichever method you choose, you'll be sure to make a showstopping statement.

subset: commoncrawl


text:
|It is Asia's number 1 theme park, which is located amidst the woods, with Nilgiri hills making the perfect backdrop. It is spread over 65 acres of land having all kinds of adventurous and thrilling rides. It located at a distance of 41 km from Coimbatore. If you prefer to reach by train, then Coimbatore, Mettupalayam, and Tiruppur are the nearest railway stations.Black Thunder Theme Park is mainly a water park, though other rides are also available. You can also stay at the luxurious accommodations available at the park. There are forty Deluxe Rooms and suites in this place for your family to recoil. In addition, you can savour delicacies in the multi cuisine restaurant and chill in the bar and cafe. Other facilities available include Health club, Children's Play Zone, Corporate Conference facilities, lush lawn, etc.
|Nilgiris is India's first biosphere that ranks among the 14 'hotspots' of the world. It is among the oldest mountain ranges in India and a home to three beautiful hill stations – Coonoor, Ooty, and Kotagiri. You will find all aspects of nature interspersed with each other in this heavenly abode. Waterfalls, tea plantations, rolling grasslands and spectacular viewpoints define the beauty of Nilgiri Hills. Siruvani Waterfalls This beautiful waterfall is situated 35 km to the west of Coimbatore. A dam is also constructed there, named after this waterfall. To reach Siruvani Waterfalls, you have to pass through a place called Sadivayal Checkpost, where you need to pay a nominal entry fee. Tribals such as Irulars and Mudugars live here.
|It is a unique yogic temple, beyond any particular faith and believes in spiritual essence of living. They don't follow any special kind of prayer or ritual. They only believe in meditation and provide you with a serene and spiritual ambiance in the midst of dense forest, essentially at the foothills of Velliangiri Mountains, 30 km from west of Coimbatore.Sadhguru Jaggi Vasudev consecrated the temple and even said this place will make people, who are unaware of meditation, realize what meditation is after he/she sits there silently for few minutes. They even preach that meditation can be done in a more appropriate environment during certain days and time such as on Poornima and Amavasya. Some of the common meditations practiced in Dhyanalinga temple include Nadha Aaradhana, Aumkar Meditation, Pancha Bhuta Aradhana and during special celebration of Mahashivarathri.
|During the rule of Raja Raja Chola, Patteeswarar Temple or Perur Temple was built. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva (Patteeswarar being the other name for Shiva) and has been patronized by various poets such as Kachiappa Munivar and Arunagiri Nathar. It is located 7 km to the west of Noyyal River. Inside the temple premises, you can see his consort Parvati (called Pachainayaki) along with him. As per folklore, this deity had emerged at its own and that is why many regard it as 'Swayambu Lingam'. Halls, gopurams and carved pillars adorn the temple. Also, there is a golden statue of Nataraja in one of the halls of Patteeswarar Temple.
|This is one of the picturesque waterfalls popular in Coimbatore district. It is located in the Anaimalai Hills range. You can reach there through Pollachi-Valparai road. It is about 30 km away from Pollachi, just next to two IFS check posts – Azhiyar Valparai and Arutperunjothi Nagar. It has come up as one of the most popular tourist attractions near Coimbatore. Just shell out Rs. 15 as ticket fee and enjoy the beauty of Monkey Falls.


text:
Posted: Apr 28, 2019
Farmington, Maine – UMaine-Farmington's softball team swept Northern Vermont-Lyndon on Sunday afternoon in North Atlantic Conference (NAC) action.
Game One (W, 21-0)
- Brianna McGrath threw a perfect game in the circle for the Beavers, throwing five innings and striking out nine batters.
- Kayleigh Oberg went 4-4 at the plate with six RBI with one run as Bailey Robbins went 3-4 with four RBI and three runs.
- Makayla Wilson went 3-5 with three RBI and two runs as Justice Merrill, Alyssa Dillan, Melissa Veitch, and Taylor Burke each tallied an RBI.
Game Two (W, 10-0)
- Kailyn Hill threw five innings for the Beavers, giving up just four hits with six strikeouts.
- Bailey Robbins went 2-3 with two RBI as Alyssa Dillan went 1-2 with two RBI and two runs.
- Haley Holt went 1-3 with two RBI and one run as Callie Hammer, Makayla Wilson, Justice Merrill each tallied an RBI.
- Emma Moore threw four innings, giving up eight hits and eight earned runs with two strikeouts.
- Emma Moore went 2-2 at the plate while Cecilia Chamul and Amber Roberts each tallied a hit.
The Beavers will travel to Husson tomorrow four a doubleheader starting at 3:30 PM


text:
The Reaper by Nicholas Irving
Running Title: The Reaper – Autobiography of one of the deadliest Special Ops snipers.
Co-author: Gary Brozek
The first time I learned about this book was from an article in a local NYC newspaper: The New York Daily News. It a featured a very non-dignifying picture of Mr. Irving, with his tongue stuck out as if auditioning for Gene Simmons in a KISS biopic, with his team as he cradled an SR-25 rifle. At first (and I'll be honest about this) I was a bit turned off and sort of rolled my eyes whilst muttering something to the likes of "the one time we get to see a story of a black sniper and we're being graced with this cocky picture". It was tempting to avoid the book, but since I don't judge book by their covers (or in this case … as it turns out … a badly chosen photo), when it landed in my stacks, my curiosity got the better of me. At a quick glance at some of the pictures in the book, it was clear that the folks at the Daily News were a bunch of tossers and could have chosen a much better picture … for there were many. I guess someone bollocksed up on that one.
In reading the first two chapters of the book, it is pretty clear that Mr. Irving is quite down-to-earth and straight shooter (pun possibly intended). He is also very modest despite his accomplishment as the first Afro-American to serve as a sniper for the Army's Special Operations 3rd Ranger Battalion 75th Regiment. Sure, he could have run with the whole legend bit where they hyped up the number of confirmed kills and he would have probably been backed up by a ton of his brothers-at-arms. Instead he simply sets the record straight and humbly lists his confirmed kills, earlier in the book: it is 33. The book takes you back and forth through his upbringing, his training and experience in combat. It is interesting to note that Mr. Irving actually tried out for the SEALs and could not qualify due to one technicality: he discovered he was colour-blind. So you may ask, how did he wash out of SEAL qualification but it to the Rangers? Let's just say that some nurse saw a young man that was eager to serve his country and provided him with some "aid" in qualifying. Hopefully someone did not lose their job, and considering the lives he may have saved … I guess a pay raise or promotion might have been a better deal. As delve deeper into the book there is a sense of déjà vu and Chris Kyle flashes in the one's mind. Except for the subtle differences. Kyle is white, a Navy SEAL, and endured major combat operations in Iraq. Nicholas is black, an Army Ranger and endured major combat operations in Afghanistan. The stories of combat and the action is just as riveting, harrowing and in many cases, gut wrenching. One chapter called "The Chechen", reads like a blockbuster movie where the bad guy is a Chechen sniper that has been hunting American soldiers, even down to the firefight that ensues … up until the reader wakes up to the reality that "bloody hell" this is not a movie but it is real. And frightening. And what those brave men and women deal with in Afghanistan. Bloody sobering. It is not all gut wrenching, and white-knuckled-gripping excursions. There are a few moments of embarrassing details about Afghan and Taliban forces that go under the category of TMI: such as some in the Afghan forces in the barracks getting their male-on-male jollies on (for some strange reason) Thursday nights, Irving and his team unwittingly stumbling onto what pretty much amounted to a Taliban male orgy (a Taliban sausagefest in the worst way). And there is even talk of drones picking up videos of in-field bestiality. Did you lose your lunch, or burp-vomitted into your mouth … I apologize, sorry about that mates.
Captivating, filled with adrenaline-inducing action, and heart-wrenching, Reaper, even though it was set out to tell the story a young Army Special Ops sniper turns out to be yet another delightful tribute to Mr. Irving's brothers-at-arms. One such person is Cpl. Benjamin Kopp, who put his life on the line to provide suppressing fire during the unit's encounter with the Chechen. Even in death, Cpl. Kopp went on to save lives since he was an organ donor.. A truly noble, honourable man. The real definition of courage (not some bloke in a white dress going through a "change"). It never ceases to amaze me about the humility of these brave men, these silent professionals. They are truly America's best. Thanks for your service Mr. Irving. May God bless you and yours and your days under the sun.


text:
If you are a crop grower, a variety of services, schemes and regulations are available to you. This includes information on managing existing varieties, as well as advice on new sectors such as bioenergy.
Explore the content below to find out the full list of support available to you.
What is in this section?
- Seed certification
- Office of the Controller of Plant Breeders' Rights
- Crop Variety Evaluation (CVE)
- Potatoes
- Aid Schemes
Public Consultation
- CAP Payments Guide 2002 (doc 45Kb)
- The Single Payment Scheme Explanatory Guide (pdf 459Kb)


text:
FontaniniStore.com Time and Transit Estimates
|The UPS estimates are based upon business days only. (Monday - Friday)
*UPS does not deliver ground or normal air deliveries on Saturday or, Sunday.
For orders going to Hawaii, Alaska, Puerto Rico, and Guam. please call 877.848.8300 with your orders, and we can provide you with shipping options.
Ground Orders in most cases are shipped same day or, within 1 business day after your order has been placed. Most of our orders are shipped with USPS Priority mail. USPS delivers within 2 to 4 business days which in most cases is faster than what is shown on the map below for UPS.
Please note: USPS 2-4 Business day delivery is not guaranteed. Air shipments placed after 12 Noon Central time will be shipped next UPS business day. (Monday - Friday) Please note... Weather conditions sometimes plays a factor in shipping and delivery dates in which FontaniniStore.com has no control over.
Returns and Exchanges for Fontanini products can be made by clicking on the links shown below. When making returns or exchanges, the products must be free from any wear or damage. Please note: There is a 20% restocking fee for straight returns.
There may be additional fees with damaged or missing display boxes or packing material.
Print this form - fill it out
Print this form - fill it out


text:
You have lost your password. Thank you to give us your e-mail, we will send you your password by e-mail
You didn't connect to the AllClad web site since one year. Please give us your mail to initialize your password
How to find my product reference?
Choose your product range by clicking on the visual or enter the name or the reference of your Tefal product in the search engine (on the left of the page). You will find all the answers regarding your product.
2 items
Your product reference is usually located on the back of your product. It is composed of letters and numbers.
View the product warranty conditions for your Tefal product.
Find a qualified repairer for your Tefal appliance or product.
Find the instructions for use of your Tefal products.
More information about your Tefal product.
Our advisors are at your service.
Consumer ServicesPrivacy PolicyGroupe SebJoin usSitemapCookiesLegal termsInventorsLegal Notice
About Tefal


text:
University News
NCAA 6th Fan Voting Parties
March 12, 2014
MACOMB, IL –- The battle between Western Illinois University and Brigham Young is underway for the NCAA 6th Fan Championship, with the winner taking $100,000 in scholarship funding. To help boost WIU's totals in the race for $100k, three voting "parties" have been scheduled on the Macomb campus.
Individuals with a WIU account (username and password) are invited to Morgan Hall 126 from 5-8 p.m. Wednesday, March 12 and Thursday, March 13, and from 8 a.m.-3 p.m. (contest end time) Sunday, March 16 to log lots of votes for the Fighting Leathernecks. Pizza will be provided Wednesday and Thursday, with doughnuts being served Sunday morning.
Fans can vote for Western by going to wiu.edu/voteWIU and following the instructions. For making the Sweet Sixteen cut, Western earned $10,000 toward the University's general scholarship fund. The institution with the most votes by 3 p.m. (CT) Sunday, March 16 will win the championship.
Fans may also continue voting once per day via Facebook and Twitter (by using the hashtags #6thFan #WILL) and or multiple times via 6thfan.ncaa.com (or wiu.edu/voteWIU ).
Posted By: WIU News (email@example.com)
Office of University Relations


text:
Cornell College Events
Wednesday, February 13th (link)
|Event Title
|11:15 am
|PINQ History of Stepping Showcase Orange Carpet
Learn about the art of stepping and watch the Pretty Intelligent Noble Queens (PINQ) perform new strolls and steps!
|1:00 pm-3:00 pm
|Early Out Movie Cole Library
The movie for this day is "The Odd Life of Timothy Green." This free program is a public library event and is not affiliated with the Mount Vernon School District. Families must call 895-4271 or stop in at the library's third-floor circulation desk to reserve a seat. Popcorn and a drink will be provided for each person.
|6:30 pm-7:30 pm
|Ash Wednesday Ecumenical Service Allee Chapel
Imposition of ashes, liturgy, scripture, and prayers to mark entry into the 40-day lenten journey of spiritual introspection, transformation, and growth. Everyone welcome. Led by the chaplain, faculty/staff, and Soulfriends.
|6:30 pm-8:00 pm
|Cornell Leadership Certificate Program - Congruence
What do values and consistency have to do with leadership? Come to the program on Congruence to learn about this aspect of leadership. Note: This program is required for the Congruence certificate.
Ongoing Events:
|Event Title
|Jan 20th-Mar 3rd
|Mexican Folk Art from Oaxaca art exhibit Peter Paul Luce Gallery
|Feb 4th-Feb 22nd
|Registration for 2013-2014
ics format for events on Wednesday, February 13th rss format for events on Wednesday, February 13th


text:
The 2019 In Brief magazine is available to download.
- Case Western Reserve University School of Law raises $58 million, capped off by a $10 million landmark gift from alumnus to establish the Coleman P. Burke Center for Environmental Law
- Opioid Epidemic: Case Western Reserve law grads play central roles in unprecedented opioid litigation
- Fusion program partners with University's think[box] to give students a first-hand innovation experience
- CWRU Law launches Yemen accountability project to document war crimes for future prosecution
- Ohio Attorney General awards funding to human trafficking clinic
- Keeping Do-It-Yourself Gene Science Safe: CWRU team will provide policy recommendations for balancing safety, innovation
- The Russia-United States Legal Education Foundation is evolving the bench and bar in Russia, one student at a time.
- Law faculty honored for scholarship and service


text:
Batman Party
A Batman theme is bound to go down a treat with boys and girls. You could get the children to decorate their own party bags. Supply them with finger paint, bat stamps, paint pens and giggly eyes to put on the bats.
Mr. Freeze Dance
Play Batman music and when the music is paused ask the children to freeze. The ones who are still moving are out of the game. The final child to not have been knocked out of the game is the winner.
Stomp the Bad Guys
Put a few pieces of candy in blue, yellow, and black balloons; blow them up and tie them. Put names and draw pictures of the bad guys on the balloons with a paint pen. In return for stomping out the bad guy balloons, the kids get the sweets from the balloons.
Mr. Freeze Bubble game
Cover the bottom of a small paddling pool with water and dishwashing liquid and a little bit of glycerine (this can be found at most pharmacies). Put a stepping stool in the middle of the pool with a hula-hoop around it in the bottom of the pool. Put a child on the stool and then pull the hula-hoop over them so they're inside a giant bubble. Take pictures of them in the giant bubble with a Polaroid camera and make them a keepsake that said "I survived the Mr. Freeze Bubble at (name of child's) Birthday" and the date.
Joker Treasure Hunt
Why not have someone dressed as the Joker who can hide his or her party bags? Then give the children an old playing card that gives them clues as to where they can find their bag.
Convert your garage into a bat cave by covering the walls with black fabric
to make it dark. Never forget that any room becomes a little spooky when the
lights are dimmed so simply use a dimmer switch, or replace your light bulbs
with lower wattage bulbs.
Hang bats and cobwebs from the ceiling. Bats can be cut from cardboard and then painted black. You could create an image of a bat on the wall by cutting out an inch long bat from black cardboard and placing it over a torch. Tape in place and it'll be just like magic!
Cobwebs can be made by stringing cotton wool from area to area or alternatively you could get the kids to amuse themselves and decorate the room for you by getting them to make an enormous cobweb by tying bits of string to various pieces of furniture in a criss-cross manner. Then let them crawl underneath it for some added party fun. You could even award small prizes to those kids who managed to crawl under the web without touching it.
Using cardboard again, cut various Halloween shapes out. Draw spooky faces using glow in the dark chalk and hang them on the walls of a room of your home. Shining a black light on them will bring them alive!
Don't forget to visit our other Recipe site at
That's My Home


text:
Breakthrough Fitness is a personal training company that is dedicated to helping individuals not only reach their health, wellness, and fitness goals, but surpass them.
Breakthrough fitness offers a wide Varity of programs, specialty classes, Boot Camps, Contests, and Events. Programs can range from startup packages to 12 month customized programs. All programs are bases on an individual's lifestyle, goals, and performance of their evaluation


text:
The West Side Anglers High School Fishing Team at West Side High School in Greers Ferry invite you to the 2017 Fayetteville Shale Scholarship Bass Tournament on Greers Ferry Lake April 21st and 22nd.
In addition to the guaranteed $1,000 to win annual FSSF Bass tournament, the Fayetteville Scholarship Fund has partnered with the Arkansas Youth Fishing Association to provide $20,000 in scholarships to the winners of the High School Fishing division through the University of Arkansas Community College at Morrilton.
First place will receive $8,000 in scholarships, second place $6,000 in scholarships, and third place $4,000 in scholarships. There will also be two $1,000 community enrichment scholarships to be awarded by drawing at the event. There will be food, door prizes, raffles, and more for the whole family.
Come out and show your support for the pursuit of higher education through the fastest growing outdoor sport in America, the amazing sport of High School Bass Fishing! For more details or to register for the event, please go to fs-scholarship.com! The West Side Anglers look forward to seeing you there!


text:
We are a group of volunteers interested in spreading enthusiasm for science! We visit schools, present lectures and give demonstrations from fire tornados to levitating superconductors!
The UQ Demo Troupe is a group of volunteers interested in spreading enthusiasm for science. We regularly meet to practice our various science demonstrations and to come up with new, more exciting ones. We frequently visit schools to run science activities, and also regularly present lecture demonstrations for various undergraduate subjects at The University of Queensland.
Ever thought about channelling a million volts of lightning? What about putting your hand in liquid nitrogen at 200 degrees below zero? Or maybe taking a nap on the infamous Bed of Nails?! These are just some of the death defying science stunts you'll see from the nationally acclaimed UQ Demo Troupe! From the science of smashing bananas to firing rockets, these shows are guaranteed to be exciting, entertaining AND informative!
If you are interested in booking a demonstration, lecture, workshop or series of activites, don't hesitate to get in touch! Or, if you are a UQ student that might want to join, please contact us - we love having new people at our training sessions.


text:
I recently heard about the tragic loss of a young, beautiful woman, barely in her thirties. The sorrow was compounded by the fact that this girl committed suicide. From the look of things, she was a well-adjusted and normal young adult with dreams and hopes for a future. However, it was not so.
This incident sent me down a trail of tears, prayer and reflection. I thought about the young ladies I mentor and how vulnerable they, and frankly we all are to the lies continually propagated by a highly secularistic world. In addition, I considered the stigma of mental illness that is prevalent in the church. According to a study of acute mental illness and Christian faith carried out by LifeWay Research, 1 in 5 pastors have struggled with mental illness of some kind; 59% of pastors have counseled one or more people who were eventually diagnosed with an acute mental illness and 48% of Christians believe serious mental illness can be cured by prayer alone. With these statistics on a steady rise I wonder why we do not address these issues head on.
It is taboo to talk about mental illness in Africa. In fact, victims of this disease are shunned and in some cases not allowed to socialize and even worse ostracized. When they do succumb to the depression, they are not given a proper burial. Christians have also been at the fore of stigmatization. In many cases, these individuals are told that they are demonized; other cases are over simplified with statements such as read your bible and pray every day and the heaviness will lift or just get over it! While prayer and the Bible are an effective tool, unfortunately it targets only one aspect of the human being; the spirit. A holistic approach that targets the body, soul and spirit goes a long way in addressing core issues bringing about health.
Ironically, those who battle depression do not go around declaring how depressed they are. It has become the norm to flippantly use statements, such as I'm so depressed or I'm emo to describe the normal low moments of life. Depression is a cancer, it envelopes an individual with a cloud of darkness so bleak that the individual loses the right to self.
The church in Africa, particularly Kenya must rise and address these issues. While more pastors and lay people are going back to school to pursue Christian counseling and psychology, more forums should be facilitated, to expose the church in general to what mental illness is and how everyone can offer social support without being overwhelmed. This can be in the form of sermon series' geared to equip the church with tools to deal with the same. Mental illness, like any other disease, it treatable. However, seeking the help of a psychiatrist or psychologist is usually not the first option when faced with troubled or hard to deal with emotions. Just like we seek out physicians for bodily diseases, we should seek the counsel of professional psychologists when we are not able to adjust to the changes and stresses of life.
I would like to hear from you. Maybe you or someone close to you is suffering from a mental illness. What are some of the ways you are coping with the disease? How is your church engaging with the mentally ill in their congregation? Because the Church is you and I, what are you doing to support your friends or family members who are battling mental illness?


text:
For millions of people, shaving is a part of their everyday grooming routine. They can all appreciate the soft, smooth feel of a close shave. However, attaining that stubble-free skin can be an irritating affair. But if you take time to ready your skin properly before taking razor in hand, you can avoid the pitfalls of poor preparation. Banish razor burn, razor bumps, nicks and cuts by following a few simple tips.
There are a few pre-shaving techniques that apply to everyone -- no matter who's doing the shaving or where. The first and most important step is to clean your skin thoroughly before you shave. That way, if you do happen to nick yourself, you'll be less likely to get an infection. While you're cleansing your skin, you should determine the direction of growth for the hair you want to target. Contrary to what you might have heard, it's best to shave with the grain (direction of hair growth), not against it. Doing so not only saves your skin from irritation, but it can also keep ingrown hairs at bay. Another thing to consider while cleansing is exfoliation. It can be helpful to exfoliate your skin once or twice a week to remove dead skin to keep pores clear, which can also combat ingrown hair problems.
Next, it's all about hydration. For those who shave in the shower or bath, you have a leg up on the rest of the shaving population, especially if you save the shave until the end of your bathing process. The warm or hot water from your bath or shower softens hair and opens the pores to release the skin's natural oil, which helps protect skin. And men get an added benefit -- hot water relaxes the muscles of the face, making the skin smoother and easier to shave [source: Greenberg, Madaras]. For those who prefer to shave at the sink, you can get similar benefits by placing a warm, wet towel on your skin for a few minutes prior to shaving.
OK, so your pores are open and the area you're about to shave is totally doused in warm water. What's next? Shaving products. Keep reading to find out what shaving-prep products and tools will make you razor ready.


text:
You are here
4/2/14- Ex Parte Communication; Revision of the Commission's Program Access Rules
Printer Friendly Version Fact Sheet
April 2, 2014
Via Electronic Filing
Marlene H. Dortch, Secretary
Federal Communications Commission
445 12th Street SW
Washington, DC 20554
Re: Ex Parte Communication; Revision of the Commission's Program Access Rules, MB Docket No. 12-68.
Dear Ms. Dortch:
On behalf of the U.S. Small Business Administration Office of Advocacy, I am writing to urge the Federal Communications Commission to move forward and strengthen protections for small multichannel video programming distributors (MVPDs) under the Cable Television Consumer Protection and Competition Act of 1992 (Cable Act) by finalizing certain revisions to the Commission's Program Access Rules. In light of increasing vertical integration between cable programmers and distributors, including the anticipated acquisition of Time Warner Cable by Comcast/NBCU, small MVPDs have asked Advocacy to raise their concerns regarding the FCC's program access rules and support reasonable revisions that would better protect small MVPDs from discriminatory pricing in cable programming.
About the Office of Advocacy
Congress established Advocacy under Pub. L. 94-305 to represent the views of small business before Federal agencies and Congress. Advocacy is an independent office within the Small Business Administration (SBA), so the views expressed by Advocacy come from input received from outreach to small businesses and do not necessarily reflect the views of the SBA or the Administration. Part of our role under the Regulatory Flexibility Act (RFA) is to assist agencies in understanding how regulations may impact small businesses, and to ensure that the voice of small businesses is not lost within the regulatory process.[1] Congress crafted the RFA to ensure that regulations do not unduly inhibit the ability of small entities to compete, innovate, or to comply with federal laws.[2] In addition, the RFA's purpose is to address the adverse effect that "differences in the scale and resources of regulated entities" has had on competition in the marketplace.[3]
Congress passed the Cable Act in 1992 to protect competition in the cable market, giving the FCC authority to craft rules to protect small MVPDs from discriminatory pricing practices among or between cable systems, cable operators, other MVPDs, or their agents or buying groups.[4] The FCC adopted such rules with the aim of preventing cable affiliated programmers from overcharging MVPD competitors for programming; however, small MVPDs have indicated to Advocacy and the FCC that certain provisions have rendered the rules ineffective at protecting small MVPDs from discriminatory pricing. The American Cable Association (ACA), whose membership represents almost every small and medium sized MVPD, has also proposed several reforms to the program access rules for which the FCC solicited public comment, but has yet to act upon.
Small Business Concerns and Proposed Alternatives
Small MVPDs have expressed concerns that the FCC's definition of "buying groups" includes unreasonable restrictions on the eligibility of entities for protection under the rules. Buying groups negotiate agreements with programmers on behalf of their members—this allows small MVPDs to increase their purchasing power and reduces transactions costs for all parties. The majority of small MVPDs purchase programming licenses through agreements between the National Cable Television Cooperative (NCTC); however, the NCTC is excluded from the program access rules because it does not assume liability for its buying group members. Small MVPDs believe that this restriction has effectively rendered the program access rules moot, as they have little choice other than to purchase programming licenses through NCTC agreements. The fact that NCTC does not assume full financial liability for its members has not impeded contracts between NCTC and programmers—NCTC remains the primary buying group used by MVPDs and programmers have existing remedies available to them in the event a buying group member defaults. Advocacy encourages the FCC to reexamine whether the requirement that buying groups assume liability for their members' contracts is necessary given that the market does not demand it, and whether that restriction is statutorily supported under the Cable Act.
ACA has also suggested two proposals which have received support from their small members that would further protect small MVPDs access to programming at reasonable prices. First, ACA has asked the FCC to enact a safe-harbor that would prevent programmers from unreasonably excluding buying group members with fewer than 3 million subscribers from a contract. Second, ACA has asked the FCC to clarify the obligation of cable affiliated programmers to extend the same volume discounts to buying groups that they do to individual MVPDs. Both of these changes would put buying groups on the same competitive footing with large MVPDs by giving them increased leverage in negotiations with cable affiliated programmers, and would result in lower prices for small MVPDs. Given the increasing number of cable affiliated programmers and the impact that such vertical integration has on small MVPD's ability to provide consumers with viable alternatives, Advocacy encourages the FCC to examine whether the Cable Act gives the FCC authority to adopt the above proposals to mitigate any anti-competitive behavior that could result from further industry consolidation.
Advocacy is pleased to be able to support small businesses by forwarding their concerns to the FCC. We would welcome any opportunity to provide assistance in conducting further outreach with small MVPDs on any of the issues discussed in this letter. Should you have any questions, please contact me or Assistant Chief Counsel Jamie Belcore Saloom at 202-205-6890.
Best regards,
Winslow L. Sargeant, Ph.D.
Chief Counsel for Advocacy
Jamie Belcore Saloom
Assistant Chief Counsel for Advocacy
[1] Pub. No. 96-354, 94 Stat. 1164 (1980).
[2] Pub. L. 96-354, Findings and Purposes, Sec. 2 (a)(4)-(5), 126 Cong. Rec. S299 (1980).
[3] Pub. L 96-354, Findings and Purposes, Sec. 4, 126 Cong. Rec. S299 (1980).
[4] Section 628(c)(2)(B) of the Cable Act


text:
MEN'S SUITS Showing 34 items
Shop mens suits for every occasion, budget, and style including European slim fit suits and regular fit suits - plus everything in between. Our selection includes linen suits and seersucker suits for summer, wool suits for year-round wear, and even wedding tuxedos and suits. With their growing popularity, 3 piece suits are a stylish option for year-round wear. A grey suit is a great choice for the office, and blue is a classic color to wear to weddings. Whether you're looking for a 2 button slim fit suit with a plain front, or a 2 button, classic fit suit with pleated pants, you'll find something you love in our huge inventory of over 10,000 classic and modern suits for men! Never bought a suit online? We make it simple - check out our online suit sizing tutorial to help you determine the suit size that fits you best!


text:
Our Griffin bottles are oval shaped plastic bottles ideal for toiletries, cosmetics, liquids & powders. This range of slim, oval bottles consists of seven sizes ranging from 15 to 250ml with a wide variety of caps available to fit.
The Griffin range is stocked in clear PVC making it a great solution for a range of applications. Toiletries, sprays and other liquids would be ideal fillers for these simple yet stylish bottles. Our range of available caps widens the application range further with screw caps and nozzle plugs in stock. The Griffin bottle can also be ordered in other colours and materials to suit various needs.
* Please note bottles are sold separately to caps, click on 'Info' below to buy a compatible cap in the same quantity from the suggested options.
Clear PVC is available from stock as standard. Amber, white, black and other colours are available on demand. PET material is available to order. Ribbed, smooth, tall, nozzle, spouted & ball caps available in white & black; colours on demand.
Measom Freer requires all customers to register before purchasing any products. Once you have found what you are looking for, select the desired quantity for each product and click either Buy or Checkout.
With Measom Freer being a trade site, the minimum quantity you can order is a box of any item, with the exception of caps which can be ordered individually to suit the number of bottles or jars purchased. Please select individual quantities, which will then be automatically rounded up to the nearest box size.
To match bottle or jar quantities with the available caps please go the chosen bottle or jar page and click on Info next to the size you need. A list of all the cap options will then appear in Suggested Options with the quantity automatically matching. If you wish to buy more than one bottle type but need the same cap for all, or you need a different cap quantity simply add all items to the basket where you can then adjust the quantity of caps to the desired amount. Top tip: highlight and type over the amount in the box then click "Update".
Once items have been added to the basket, you will be redirected to the basket page. If you wish to continue shopping click the Continue Shopping button to return to the previous screen. Your selected items will remain saved in your basket while you continue to browse our website.
If you wish to access your shopping basket, this can be done by selecting the shopping trolley icon on the top right of the screen.
Once you have sent all items to your basket you can checkout using our simple system. You will be asked to log in or create a new account if you have not already done so. Following this, you will be presented with a delivery and payment details page where you should fill in the relevant information. If you are a current customer you can pay on account, please just add your account number. Once completed, you will see an overview of your order listing all products and the respective costs.
By clicking proceed to payment you will be redirected to Sage Pay to complete your order. After successful payment, you will be redirected back to the Measom Freer site and presented with an order confirmation page. You will also receive an email confirmation acknowledging receipt of your order. Once processed by our sales team, you will receive an invoice via email.
By clicking pay on account you will be presented with an order confirmation page and will also receive an email confirmation acknowledging receipt of your order. Once processed by our sales team you will receive an invoice via email. Our payment terms are 30 days net.
Once your order is complete you can continue browsing our website or view past orders using the account details section accessible from the top right of the page. You can easily reorder past orders using the Order History feature in your account. Using the account details section, you are also able to view the status of your order. Once despatched, an invoice will be emailed to the account holder.
Please contact our sales department on 0116 2881588 or [email protected] if you have any problems placing your order.
If you are an EU customer or require returns information please click here.
Measom Freer has a diverse range of bottles for use across all applications. We manufacture strong and robust bottles that offer a solid container for chemicals and other hazardous materials. We recommend these bottles for use within agriculture, animal health, automotive, industrial, laboratory, analytical and pharmaceutical as well as education and museum archiving, where the handling of harmful substances is common.
Our bottles also come in a variety of different colours and materials making them suitable for high street use to add style to any collection of products. The bottles, designed and manufactured by Measom Freer, are practical and stylish making them suitable for use within the beauty and cosmetics industry, food and wholesale, health, wellness and nutrition, hobbies and craft, adult industries, home and bathroom, ink and printing and contract fillers. When you are looking for a bottle to meet the demands of your product, Measom Freer is sure to have the one for you.


text:
You really don't want to miss out on this mature Hyderabadi milf while she indulges in a sensual home sex session with her husband. The indian xxx chat rooms wife strips naked to expose her sexy naked body as the couple kisses and smooches before she lies down on the bed with her legs spread wide. Watching the husband insert his erect dick in her already wet pussy as he starts fucking her hard in missionary style is sure to titillate your sexual mood! Mumbai girl Kajal Sharmas Indian xxx mms scandals will make you shag your penis again and again. You dont need a special attention to such gorgeous girls. Her second boyfriend presses her ass and does foreplay in front of her first boyfriend. This big boobs girl gives blowjob to her boyfriend by kneeling down. He has nice long dick which nearly hits deep inside her mouth.
A free indian sex chat college girl does desi hardcore porn mms for huge cash. She is worth every penny and her sex partner uses her up. He fucks her cunt in several sex positions and increases his sexual arousal by grabbing her breasts. He lifted her bra up and enjoyed pressing her breasts while his dick fucked her pussy. He even licked her dry pussy to make it wet. A hardcore fuck awaits you! Check your dick hitting your pants on watching this Indian teen selfie video! Her sexy ass and navel would make your dick dance well for sure. A ini-skirt reveals her sexy cute ass and she twerks her ass in front of cam. I could see her pussy covered by a small panty. Will she remove her panty or not? Will I be able to see her pussy?
Indian big boobs bhabhi while she stripped her clothes off exposing her sexy nude assets and naked body and made herself her nude selfie mms for her lover. This bhabhi being so naughty, she was playing with her big boobs and pressing them hard to give her lover a sexy show to enjoy. Secret lover enjoys this Indian mature aunty Aparnas show. I hope you guys love this too! This free indian chat mature aunty wears a sexy dress that barely covers her private parts. Her soft boobies with hard brownish nipples tempts well. More than that, her shaved pussy in inviting sex position drives me a lot sexier. Do you know how she tempts her sex mood? Watch this video!


text:
Read the full article
This article was originally published in issue #4
To read the article in its entirety, view the digital magazine
When it comes to gear, Bruce is no hoarder or collector, although what little he has is gear that has truly made pop history.
Before the Beatles they were the biggest band in Britain - and in many other countries around the world. The Shadows didn't just do for electric guitar in the UK what the Ventures did in the USA, they made theme tunes for an entire generation that went on to include melodically inspired guitarists like Brian May, Jeff Beck, Wishbone Ash's Andy Powell, Mark Knopfler, Tommy Emmanuel, Neil Young, Frank Zappa and even Carlos Santana! Driving the band's sound was the wonderful rhythm playing of Bruce Welch OBE. Guitar teacher and GI contributor Lee Hodgson recently met the great man for our in-depth interview. He also got to gaze in awe at the first ever Fender Strat in Britain!
And when did it all begin? Cue spooky music - in 1959
I don't know about you but I can't imagine a melody, or any kind of lead guitar playing come to that, sounding good for an extended period without some form of complimentary accompaniment, either in the form of interesting underlying harmony or a propulsive rhythm, or both. Even a lead guitarist as revered as Hank Marvin needs a helping hand or two!
Bruce Welch OBE, founding member of Britain's most successful and hugely influential instrumental group, The Shadows, calls himself a "driving" guitar player, and the importance of his role as their rhythm guitarist cannot be underestimated. While America had – and Japan still has – The Ventures, for countless aspiring British players, The Shadows are the epitome of guitar-driven greatness.
Born in Bognor, Sussex, but living his early life in County Durham in the north-east of England, Bruce formed a skiffle band, The Railroaders, aged just 14, but soon hooked up with a school friend who would become his future career partner – and a legend in his own right – Hank Marvin. Together these 'Geordie Boys' (as they were briefly known professionally) would move from their Tyneside base down to London, virtually penniless, and… well, Bruce elaborates in the video interview.
Bruce unashamedly spoke about how playing in [jazzy] keys like Bb was never on the agenda.
At one point during the interview, while discussing chords used higher up the neck, such as 9ths and such like, I made the assumption that Bruce had maybe first heard a "6/9" chord from Elvis Presley's first guitarist, Scotty Moore, but Bruce quickly put me right on where he'd heard it first. He also surprised me with his choice of pick (check out the video interview for the reveals!).
Post-interview, Bruce was elaborating on and demonstrating how he simply enjoys moving his hand along the neck while literally keeping a grip on a familiar chord shape but allowing an open string or two to ring out all the while, just waiting for a beautiful sound to reveal itself. He was totally unaware of, and unconcerned about, the names of the resultant chords. As a teacher, I was of course keen to name things but what was I 'teaching' Bruce that he could gainfully use I wondered? I quickly realised, not that I was ever being disrespectful, that it was rather pointless me continuing to name all those sounds that Bruce was making before my very eyes and it was none clearer than when he played a vague yet musically satisfying chord structure.
When it comes to gear, Bruce is no hoarder or collector, although what little he has is gear that has truly made pop history. At one stage he produced a 1959 Martin acoustic guitar – now with knobs on (!) – that Paul McCartney had almost certainly first publicly performed 'Yesterday' on! Yet more than once he would wistfully bemoan the lack of knowledge of the whereabouts of one of his first guitars, an old Grimshaw. (I'm sure if anyone could shed light on the object then Bruce would be most grateful.)
During the interview Bruce would occasionally reference "the Buddy Holly [S-type electric guitar]", which was the top quality electric guitar that his guitar tech had made him. Bruce also has a lovely acoustic (as used on the 2009 Cliff Richard & The Shadows Reunion Concerts) made by the same guy. Again, Bruce reveals all in the video.
Indeed, Bruce was almost tripping over guitars – including that fiesta red Strat (the first one seen in Britain, as originally purchased for Hank Marvin by Cliff Richard) as he leant over his studio mixing desk in order to reach for yet another memorable picture from a golden era. Moments later, he'd dodge round the Burns electric guitar leaning up against a lizard skin '61 Vox AC30 in order to grab the little gold disc for 'Apache' (The Shadows' first number 1 single from 1960 and, reputedly, the source of Carlos Santana's first nickname). The multitude of larger gold discs adorning the stairway leading down to Bruce's 'den of iniquity' as he likes to call it, are mostly awards relating to Bruce's other career highlight: producing multi-million selling albums in the mid- to late-70s for the Shadows' former frontman, Cliff Richard (now Sir Cliff of course).
GI would like to thank Bruce for the generous amount of time he gave us - not to mention the reassurance of seeing someone who has devoted his entire life to music and the guitar and yet who still retains the unbridled enthusiasm that you only really expect to see in a teenage wannabe guitar player who has just heard or seen the most wonderful thing possible - a shiny new electric guitar! It's great to know it lasts!
And just a final, personal, note. Just before our interview Bruce told me that unfortunately he couldn't do any playing that day due to a seriously troubling hand problem, which he had been seeking medical attention for. Having said which, he enthusiastically led me and GI's indefatigable cameraman, Mike Thorpe, down to his basement studio, where he just couldn't resist picking up the odd guitar or three and strumming away, with a massive grin on his face. I'm no doctor but I'd say that was music therapy at work! Thanks all the more then to Bruce for the unexpected bonus of some up-close driving rhythm guitar from a true master of the art.
This article was originally published in issue #4
To read the article in its entirety, view the digital magazine


text:
In his exit interview with GQ, Goggins talks about committing hard to those frosted tips and why the race controversy over Season One was "pandering."
In his exit interview with GQ, Goggins talks about committing hardto those frosted tips and why the race controversy over Season One was "pandering."
Walton Goggins has long had one of the most recognizable faces in entertainment, but now he's finally building a name for himself to match. The character actor had back-to-back standout turns in beloved dramas The Shield and Justified, and more recently joined a very exclusive club of people who have survived a Quentin Tarantino movie.
He's also one half of the crass, awful pair of vice principals in HBO's Vice Principals, in which Lee Russell (Goggins) and Neal Gamby (Danny McBride), are enemies-turned-friends with the sole goal of becoming the principal at a small South Carolina high school. Created by Jody Hill and McBride, who also conceived Eastbound and Down, Vice Principals is an often hilarious, often sad character study of two men locked in a ceaseless battle not so much with each other, but with themselves.
The show comes to an end this Sunday after two seasons, which was the plan from the beginning. For fans, and for Goggins, it's a bittersweet ending to a show—and character—that were often deeper and more profound than their reputation would suggest. Goggins took some time out of his schedule (he's currently filming villainous turns in two highly-anticipated blockbusters, Ant-Man and the Wasp and Tomb Raider) to talk about how the loud, fey villain Lee Russell came to be, and how the hell to relate to a character who burns down houses and compulsively lies to his wife.
The show is very funny, I swear.
Let's start at the beginning. How did you get this role, Lee Russell?
I knew David [Gordon Green] from the independent world; I've known him for the better part of 13 years, 14 years. I actually read for Season Four of Eastbound and Down. I walked into this audition and there were literally five comedians from Saturday Night Live and me! I thought, "Well, this is never going to fucking happen." But I was like, "Ah, fuck it. I don't care. Let's go in and let's play." I ultimately did not get the role. It went to [Jason] Sudeikis. And they were wise to do that.
But! Vice Principals came along and they were going back and forth about how they wanted to approach it. They thought about a traditional comedian for Lee, and then David, I think, threw out "Goggins" in the room and they all went, "He's the fucking guy! That's it. It's gotta be Goggins." So Danny reached out while I was doing The Hateful Eight and sent me the script, and I just got it.
How much of Lee Russell was written or conceived before you came into it? The weird shirts and the accent itself, and the frosted tips?
The frosted tips were there, and the first thing Danny said to me was, "Listen, you don't have to frost your tips." I said, "Oh yeah. Oh, I'm frosting the fucking tips." The tips will be frosted! Hair that you see and hair that you don't see will have tips frosted. [laughs]
I don't know I really knew Russell until we got on the set the first day. I was full of fear. I just literally wrapped Hateful Eight at 9:30 in the morning and went straight to the airport, got on a plane, landed, got to the house and 11:30 at night. Frosted my tips and woke up at 6:00 the next morning just to become Lee Russell.
How did you approach them as lead characters, Russell and Gamby? Protagonists? They're tonally not heroes, or even antiheroes, for that matter.
I don't think they are. I don't think they are protagonists. We're exploring a side of ourselves or our society that we all know exists without giving the audience many things to cheer about. Unless you can cheer at the truths of how deeply insecure they are, and you can cheer or root for a person once you understand why they are who they are.
When I came into this, I said, "Buddy, there are things here about this guy, once you really kind of get in to him, that are very painful." I don't know that they anticipated it resonating or vibrating on that deeper level with me. I don't know that they fully understood my interpretation of the depth of Lee Russell's pain.
Do you consider it part of your job, in a way, to get people to like Lee, maybe despite themselves? Even in the last couple of weeks we've seen him lose his wife under circumstances that he truly deserves and then spend this spring break episode essentially leering after a teen.
He does, in a very harmless way. I also think in that episode he's also saying, "Gamby, just relax, buddy. Kids will be kids. Maybe if they were given some freedom, maybe they won't turn out like us."
I really don't think it is my job to make people like the antagonist that I play. My allegiance is to three things and three things only: First and foremost, making this fictional character three-dimensional and respecting them as an autonomous human being. Second is to the writer, because words are my Bible. What is it that we are trying to say? What is the writer trying to say? The last thing is protecting my director and giving him many different options that are within this tone and that are within the truth of my interpretation of this character. I am very protective of the people that I play. I don't say the same thing the same way twice. Human beings don't do that.
I remember one of the criticisms that I saw a couple of times, from the show's very early days, was that it was a show about two guys trying to bring a powerful black woman down. Looking back, do you think that was fair?
I think those two or three critics that talked about that were pandering to their constituents. In my opinion, they thought that they were, in some way, saving the day. They were looking for a pat on the back, standing up to the insensitive nature of this particular narrative when they had no fucking idea what this story was about.
I just think the people that made those criticisms need to ask themselves, "Would you have felt better about this behavior if it was done to a white woman or a white man?" Who is looking at this through the prism of race? It isn't the filmmaker. It isn't. It's you. I understand it simultaneously because of the times that we are living in. But Belinda Brown, who is imbued with such humanity by Kimberly Hebert Gregory, is really the moral center of this entire story.
This was never a show about two white men against a black woman. This show is about two individuals who are deeply flawed, deeply insecure and are looking to fill that void with the acquisition of power. At the end of the day, the only way that you are going to find peace in this life is to examine your own life and live right. That's where real power comes from.
Are there particular Russell moments that you hold close to your heart?
Oh God. There are so many, buddy. We were talking about the spring break episode before—Russell is getting the lap dance and they've been doing cocaine, and Gamby says, "Hey Lee. Do you want to hang out?" So Lee Russell says, "I am fucking hanging out! Why don't you go hang out!" [laughs] It's all of it. I love it so much.
A part from this season that's stuck with me is Russell loudly playing an Avril Lavigne song to get out of an argument.
Yes! Susan [Park], who plays my wife, she's got to sit there with a straight face. She's so wonderful. You talk about favorite moments, the coming-together breakfast with Susan. That was so extraordinary. I laughed so hard. "Look at us working it the fuck out!"
It it bittersweet, ending things on your terms but also just having to walk away from a character you love?
I'm going to miss it. I think we're all going to miss it. This is one of the highlights. You look for these moments over the course of your career and not just the acquisition of friends, but the seared memories that were forged over the course of this eight months together.
I don't know. Never say never. You never know if Lee Russell and Gamby might come back. It would have to be something completely different. That would be fun.
You and Danny McBride clearly love working together.
Yes. The big scene from the latest episode? Danny directed that episode and he had such a specific idea for the big fight. This one particular sequence happened when I'm running then he hits me in the locker room and throws me through the window, it's almost one take. The stunt guys were doing this one hit, and it didn't look right. I just said, "Buddy, we've got to go over this hill. We can't go around it. Let's go. Let's get in there. Hit me." We did it. Two times. We went and had a big beer afterwards.
I think a lot of people are going to discover this show in a year or two and feel like idiots.
As Lee Russell would say, "I told you so.
Source: gq.com


text:
Original vs. Remake
Posted 25 July 2009 - 04:12 AM
Posted 28 July 2009 - 12:19 AM
For me, there is probably some influence due to the fact that I played Hero's Quest first, before it was renamed Quest for Glory 1. That was the first game I played, and the reason I got into the whole series. There's a number of other little things here and there, but since I don't mind typing, I'm quite happy with that style. I do like both versions, but for me, EGA has the edge.
Posted 08 August 2009 - 02:35 AM
In QFG1EGA, you sell the whole lot at once. It means you get gold coins (every 2 claws = 1 gold coin), instead of 5 silver, one claw at a time. Less weight to carry around when you get gold.
Anyway, one more reason I like the EGA version better!
Posted 08 August 2009 - 10:12 PM
Keeping your gold works so much better in the ega version.
Edited by Jack of All Trades, 08 August 2009 - 10:13 PM.
Posted 09 August 2009 - 05:00 AM
Posted 09 August 2009 - 04:06 PM
Posted 12 August 2009 - 02:56 AM
Posted 14 September 2009 - 04:15 AM
Edited by Paladin Wizard, 14 September 2009 - 04:16 AM.
Find QFG Import files here.
Posted 15 September 2009 - 04:04 AM
Posted 18 September 2009 - 04:16 PM
One thing I never did get was Erasmus' maze? Did that work on EGA. For some reason I remember feeling like nothing I did would make a difference.
Posted 26 September 2009 - 02:35 PM
Posted 09 October 2009 - 04:42 PM
My name is DBoyWheeler and I am a Paladin.
What kind of Hero Are You?
All Hail Shadow!
Heroes rise again!
Obliterating everything that's not your friend!
Posted 24 October 2009 - 03:43 PM
I picked the original EGA version, for numerous reasons:
- The charming graphics. The limited 16 color palette just gives everybody more character, I guess. The facial expressions on the hero (one of which I loved so much I had to make it my avatar), the Antwerp's indifferent Walrus-esque expression, the frightening closeups of enemies.
- The text parser. Now, I usually prefer games with a point-and-click interface, but you get some feelings of accomplishment in QFG1 EGA that aren't there in VGA. Guessing what conversation topics to ask, trying to figure out how to use certain items or what areas can be examined. It's just far more rewarding.
- The combat system. It's still far inferior to Quest for Glory 2's (which I feel is the greatest), but the remake's was odd and very QFG3-esque. Being able to re-attack while you were attacking, dying of fatigue...it just didn't feel right to me.
- Miscellaneous other nice touches, such as the Easter Egg messages when clicking on certain pixels or the razzle dazzle root beer code. Heck, I agree with Ghost_Rider's remark on the Brigand Ambush entirely. The original game, overall, just felt more polished and emotional to me than the VGA remake, in which you can find all sorts of miscellaneous errors.
For those who haven't guessed yet, I'm new! I recently inherited a Quest for Glory: Collection Series from a friend and, 90s adventure games having been a staple of my childhood, I couldn't pass up his offer. I played through this original first and loved it, and am currently making my way through QFG3. I look forward to contributing on this forum!
Edited by Kahlis, 24 October 2009 - 03:44 PM.
Posted 04 September 2010 - 01:49 AM
1: The dagger problem: This is actually the single biggest gripe I have with the VGA version of the game. When you throw daggers at your enemy, they can only be recovered if you go to your inventory and pick them up BEFORE the combat starts. Once you fight the monster, your daggers are gone forever. Every other incarnation of QFG never had a problem like this, and I think it was unacceptable that it should have been there.
2: Yorick stays inside: In the EGA version, upon explaining to Yorick why you're there, what you know, and what you're trying to do, he realizes you're on his side and the savior he's been waiting for years for and immediately goes out of the room. In the VGA version, he stays in, and if you're not quick enough, he might even throw things at you and impede your progress through the maze.
This problem was solved in part due to Dosbox since I could slow things down and act quick enough to get through the doors before Yorick could throw anything at me. Also if you're a wizard, casting a spell, any spell, makes Yorick flee.
3: Combat: Combat is hard in QFG 1 VGA only when you're starting out, once you have your stats built up, you're basically a hardcore fighting machine that few monsters stand a chance against. In QFG EGA, combat is still tough regardless of your stats, you'll still take a lot of damage when fighting monsters like Saurus rexes, Cheetaurs, and Trolls. So in that respect, the EGA version is more challenging, but I never really figured out the combat in terms of dodging and parrying much, so even though you can cruise through most enemies in the VGA once you max out (Trolls will still be a headache if you don't dodge or parry right), I would say that the VGA has its fighting system much better done.
4: The Swordmaster: Before DosBox, I would say the EGA is better since the game ran on its own clock and the speed of the sword master didn't matter. With DosBox, you're able to slow down the swordmaster just as well to beat the guy fairly in the VGA version as well, so they're even here (VGA gets points for better graphics).
5: Dag-Nab-It: The dagger game in the EGA gets harder the more you bet. This is why the game awards you extra points for winning the 50 silver game in addition to winning a normal (I.E. 5 or 10 silver) game. The VGA version doesn't really have much more challenge and the chief thief is still easy as heck to beat even when betting 50 silvers. Was this on purpose or an oversight in the VGA version, I don't know.
Basically, beyond the dagger problem I described, the VGA has a lot of good stuff over the EGA, but there are still some bugs and issues that just didn't exist in the EGA version (Yorick leaving, recovering daggers, challenge of the dagger game) that have the programming edge over the VGA.
For me, I like to alternate every now and then between the games.
Till next time stay cool
"A gun is a tool, Marian. No better, no worse than any other tool. An axe, a shovel, or anything. A gun is as good or as bad as the man using it. Remember that." Shane, played by Alan Ladd, in the movie Shane (1953).
"Blaming a gun for an action of a criminal is like blaming a car for some accident made by an idiotic driver." Paladinlover.
Posted 01 October 2010 - 07:32 AM
Keeping your gold works so much better in the ega version.
In my experience, this is incorrect. The VGA version does keep track of your (well, my) gold. Then again, I never exploit the mushroom glitch.
Come to think of it, the last time I did use the mushroom glitch, I think I remember having far less gold than I should have had. That's probably why I stopped using it.
But that was nearly 15 years ago, so I can't be sure.
Edited by Paviel, 01 October 2010 - 07:35 AM.


text:
Abbas: Palestinians to Refrain From Joining More International Organizations
by JNS.org
JNS.org – Palestinian Authority (PA) President Mahmoud Abbas said he would refrain from having the PA join more United Nations bodies or other international organizations in the near future.
In an interview with the Times of Israel, Abbas said he is pausing the Palestinians' unilateral push for international recognition in order to give recent diplomatic efforts more time to develop.
Last week, Abbas met with Israeli Justice Minister Tzipi Livni, Israel's top negotiator in the recently collapsed peace talks, in London. Abbas called the meeting "positive" and told Livni that a new Palestinian unity government would abide by the principles that the Palestinian Authority recognizes—including recognition of Israel, previous peace agreements, and rejection of violence.
Hamas's leadership, however, has said it will not recognize those principles.


text:
| Your banner could be here!
Find out how!
|Reader's login | Writer's login
The television set glows bright in the early morning darkness as the sun is just rising:
Come Down to Petes Dragon Shop where well satisfy all your dragon needs. We have small dragons that fit in moms purse, medium dragons that fill a nice backyard, and even the mightiest dragons of all (provided you have land with a cave and the proper insurance).
Young Jimmy, a small boy of eight is glued to the screen with eyes glimmering with hope.
They can help dad fire up the grill, save mom the trouble of buying fertilizer for her rosebushes. Did little Billy lose his kite in a tree? No problem! Your pet dragon has so many uses.
Jimmy jumps with excitement until the advertisement is over, then at the last image of a pot bellied dragon towering twenty feet tall, he jets upstairs to his parents bedroom.
Mom, dad, can we get a dragon? I promise Ill take care of it.
Absolutely not, his mother answers in an unwavering tone.
But mom, everybody we know has one. Ive been real good lately, and itll be a good learning experience for me.
Your mother said no and thats final.
No buts about it, his father answers sternly before burrowing under the pillows.
His mothers already up and wrapping a fluffy pink robe around her body. Now run downstairs and well start breakfast.
As Jimmy and his mom move down to the breakfast table he looks pleadingly at his father who slowly walks toward them wiping the sleep from his eyes.
His mothers voice fills his ears with sweet condolences, Honey I know you want a dragon, but theyre a lot of work and take a lot of time and energy.
I know that mom. Ill be nine years old soon, and youre always saying that its time for me to take on more responsibilities.
His father whispers to his mother and she raises her voice in answer, John, you know how much trouble your brother had with his dragon.
I know, I know, but we can find something smaller and train it.
Are you kidding me?
Why dont we just try it, and if it doesnt work out
Then what? Re-homing dragons is not as easy as it is for kittens, and thats no picnic.
Jimmy pleads with his eyes and her face softens.
Oh fine. But Im not cleaning up after it.
His father winks at him. That wont be a problem, and just think how much money well save on fertilizer for your gardens.
Why John, you havent been watching that silly commercial too, have you?
As they sit down to eat, Jimmy smiles at his dad.
Alright, his mother turns to him as he bounces in his seat unable to contain his excitement. You can have a dragon, but this will be your pet. You must make sure it is fed, properly trained, and it will be your responsibility to clean up after it.
I can help you with that, his father adds.
The week seems to drag by. Finally Saturday dawns and Jimmy is taken on a stroll to the dragon shop. He runs ahead on the sidewalk, and presses his face against the clear store window to catch a glimpse of all the dragons.
Come along now dear, his mother scolds as she and her husband draw near the entrance.
While they pass into Petes Dragon Shop, the alarming smell of sulfur, scales, and bleach attack his nose, but he doesnt care.
Welcome to Petes Dragon Shop. Im Pete and Id be glad to find you the perfect dragon to suit your family, a tall corpulent man bellows at them as he approaches from behind the counter.
Such a small store front, how do hold all the dragons here? His mother asks.
Oh we keep the big ones in the out back, Pete loudly responds. I imagine you want something small and sensible, right maam?
Well yes sir. You see this is our first dragon and my son Jimmy here is to be responsible for it.
Jimmy squirms under his moms touch as she places her hand on his shoulder. He sends a hopeful look to Pete and his spirits sore when he sees the man quickly wink one of his changing hazel orbs.
I can show you around in here, but, may I suggest something not too big, yet sizeable enough that you wont have to fear losing it before you even return home? Some of these miniscule breeds disappear under my own careful watch, sneaky little devils, and they are easier to tame when they have a substantial frame.
His father grins at the salesman. Theres no harm in looking.
The shop keeper leads them out the back door which opens to a spacious yard spanning beyond Jimmys sight. Its filled with an array of dragons, from four feet tall weighing around five hundred pounds of pure muscle, all the way to a one ton, lengthy, twenty footer.
Jimmys eyes widen at this sight.
Each dragon is harnessed to a metal pole thats double cemented in the ground like the foundation of a house. Two of the large lizards are flying overhead at the end of their chain leashes, whereas the others are sleeping upon the shop keepers valuables.
I want that one, he exclaims as he points to the largest one. Its a stocky breed of twenty feet with chubby stub legs, a big round belly, and long leathery wings. The giant lizards demonic face is complete with bushy beard and multiple horns growing out of its head.
Absolutely not, his mother declares.
How about that one? His father nods at an eight foot sapphire blue one, with its long body coiled up, sleeping in a dragon house built like a giant jewelry box.
Oh that one? Pete scratches his head, That one came in just a few days ago. Real pretty aint he?
At this, the blue lizard opens one of its royal purple eyes and seems to fix its gaze on Jimmy, and his mom standing nearby.
Look, hes waking up, he bursts with excitement.
Well looky there, Pete declares as the object of their conversation stretches and yawns with a cloud of smoke appearing through his nostrils. The creature moves towards the boy and shakes his head.
Is it safe? his mom asks.
Of course, Pete smiles. The only dangerous ones are the giants that I have to keep confined in the mountains on my property out west.
Go on son. His father chuckles as he slowly creeps toward the magnificent pet that hes dreamed of for so long.
He seems a bit skinny, his dad notes walking up to the dragon to pets its slender belly with his son
Thats just the breed, Pete replies. This one comes all the way from Japan. See his long snaky body and the hand-like claws?
Well, I dont know much about dragons, but this one seems to suit us just fine, His mother answers.
Says here, dragons are one hundred dollars for every foot of height; whats this one, eight feet or so? His father asks.
Good estimate, I like a perceptive customer. Hes just over, but well go ahead with the even eight hundred to cut you a deal. Pete smiles, rubbing his hands together enthusiastically. Now, the dragon house that hes attached to is fifty five hundred, and
Fifty five hundred dollars? Jimmy turns around in shock.
Pete stands tall. That house is custom built to hold your valuables so your dragon can feel that hes protecting your treasures, a purpose most fulfilling for a dragon, and very important to the training process. Take my advice, buy the house and be happy to have such an affordable breed. Think of the people in town who own our twenty foot biggens.
He eyes his mom as she looks to his dad. Alright. Come on John, this was your idea. Pay up.
Jimmy breathes with relief.
Pete continues as they walk back into the shop and head toward the counter. Now we can set up a daily shop delivery to keep your pet fed as well, for only four thousand dollars per month, in addition to your annual dragon insurance that we can cut down into a monthly bill if you prefer it, while adding in the tracking chip thats legally required under the National Association of Dragon Surveillance (N.A.D.S) for free.
Fine, fine, do you take American Express? his father grumbles.
Why yes sir we do, Petes smile lights up his face as he cordially rings up the bill and sends Jimmy and his parents on his way, with instructions to prepare for the next days delivery.
Oh dad, I cant wait till tomorrow when they deliver my dragon. How can I ever thank you? Jimmy skips down the sidewalk on their way home.
Him? What about me? His mother questions with a laugh.
Well yeah, you too mom.
The next day, sharp at noon, Jimmy jumps at the sound of the doorbell and runs to greet his new pet while his dad directs the delivery men.
Thanks for coming out on a Sunday. My boy here is so excited to start playing with his new dragon, his dad pats his head.
He follows out to the side gate leading into their backyard, and runs forward to one of the trucks to greet his pet. Were gonna have so much fun together.
It takes quite some time for the delivery men to set up the dragon house, just after pouring the fast setting cement to hold the extra strong chain. Once theyre ready to hook the dragon up in its backyard setting, the creature is brought forward. But just as the handlers do their best to carefully guide him towards the strong metal collar, the next door neighbors twelve foot, muscular breed (who walks upright with a broad chest and an affinity to dart at anything new) roars and starts shooting fire.
Dont worry, this happens all the time, the delivery men assure Jimmy and his father as they pull out fireproof shields to protect them.
The beast next door breaks free and darts toward Jimmys dragon. His new pet rushes in front of him and yields as the strong dark red dragon calls to him.
Jimmy cries out at the sight of his dragon flying off alongside the escaped animal.
Give them a few days they always come back, one of the delivery men says through his moustache.
I should hope so, or well be demanding a full refund, his father snaps back.
After seeing the last of the exhaust clouds from the Petes Dragon Shop trucks disappear, Jimmy marches with his to their neighbors house and his dad bangs on the door. A stocky, red headed man answers. Ive been expecting you. He pushes his glasses up his nose as they immediately slide down again.
You have? Jimmy widens his eyes.
Of course, as soon as I saw the dragon delivery trucks, I had a feeling that Big Mac would do this again.
Big Mac? his father asks with confusion.
Thats my dragons name.
You said hes done this before?
Only twice, but I have to say the money well make off of the draglings is well worth the trouble.
Draglings? No, that doesnt make any sense. We bought a male.
Based on my dragons actions, yours is definitely a female.
Look now, I know you only moved here a few months ago, but this isnt very neighborly.
Well the man pursed his lips. How about this, heres my business card.
His father takes the card to read it and then Jimmy grabs it from his hand to look.
Leroy Jackson
President & C.E.O. of Sheep for Dragons
When our pets return, and I assure you they will, Ill set you up with a free supply of dragon food for life. I insist. Leroy extends his hand to shake on it. And they return home feeling satisfied.
The dragon flew away? His mother meets them at the door. I just knew this was a bad idea. What are we gonna do, if this thing does any harm? You know that the N.A.D.S. isnt very lenient when it comes to escaped dragons, they wont hesitate to kill it on the spot.
Calm down, calm down, Jimmy steps back as he dad works to sooth his mother. This sort of thing happens all the time.
Oh really, then why have I never heard of any such occurrence?
Oh you know as well as I do that the N.A.D.S doesnt want these incidents exploited by the media. It could create some kind of frenzy.
She sighs. Fine.
And the man next door says well be able to sell her draglings. Jimmy tries to be helpful.
Her? His mother questions him and then looks to his father. We bought a male.
I thought so too, but apparently Big Mac was in the mood for a shake. His father offers.
I dont see what any of this has to do with fast food.
Thats the other dragons name. His father laughs.
The next morning at breakfast, Jimmy begs to stay home from school. If she comes back before I get home, how will she know how much I missed her?
At this, his mother starts. Sweetie, you cant
Sure son. You havent missed a day all year. His father takes a sip of his coffee and he grins.
Yea, oh and Ive decided to call her Dragonya.
Dragonya? His father raises an eyebrow at him before returning to his morning paper.
His mother sighs. Thats a perfect name for her dear. But you know theres a chance that she wont come back at all and
Mom she is coming back, probably today.
Im sure youre right. I just dont want you to get your hopes up, just in case.
Jimmy moves to sit at the glass door leading to their back yard and stares while his mother cleans the house. He jumps at the sound of cars driving by, airplanes flying overhead, and just before lunchtime, he fancies a familiar roar while shes vacuuming the living room carpet. Running out the door in the hopes of finding his lost pet come home, theres no mistaking her. He spots the striking blue dragon landing her long body down into the backyard.
All his mothers objections seem to have escaped her as she reaches his side. Welcome back Dragonya, she smiles at the serpentine scaly curves that settle before her in the dragon house.
Running up to her, Jimmy pats her stomach.
Dragonya eyes his mothers brilliant gold bracelet and she takes it off. Here you go girl. Watch over it for me.
Dragonya creeps forward and carefully sits back on her hind leg. As the full length of the beasts body reaches Jimmy and his mom, the great animal reaches out her foreleg and quickly grabs the shiny bauble with her claws. Instead of heading back to the dragon house, she bows and exposes her neck expectantly.
His mother nods. I think she wants you to scratch her there.
You too mom, he reaches out an eager hand.
Why her scales are quite soft here, she smiles at him.
From that day on his parents praise Petes Dragon Shop and refer a number of his friends parents as well. Everyday Jimmy plays with Dragonya, but after a couple of months he becomes less enthusiastic about having to take care of his large, high maintenance, pet.
His father walks into his room and disrupts him after a few weeks. Now Jimmy, you promised to take care of your dragon and its been brought to my attention that youve been shirking your duties.
Mom put you up to this didnt she?
Thats not the issue. Anyone with a nose can smell you slacking your responsibilities.
Shes been eating her sheep everyday dad, but thats it. Dragonyas boring, she doesnt flit about anymore. She just begs for more food, jewelry, neck rubs, and then goes back to sleep.
Ah I see. Well, I imagine that your dragon will soon be laying some eggs. Your mom was always tired and hungry when she was pregnant with you. And just between us his father lowers his voice leaning toward him, she was a bit demanding. But you didnt hear it from me.
Jimmy laughs and smiles. Really?
Yeah His father chuckles, Tell you what; Ill help you clean up the yard this once, but from now on you have to keep up on it every day. Remember you promised, and a man must be able to keep his word.
Another week passes, and Jimmy tries not to complain too much. He does his best to keep up with his duties to Dragonya, but he misses being able to head over to his friends houses without having to work first.
I appreciate how hard you have been trying to make up for letting us down. His mother smiles at him as he shovels dragon waste into the flower beds while she kneels near her tulips pulling weeds.
The clouds make for a grey day and the wind brings a chill to the air. Before Jimmy responds, Dragonya roars a hot blowing breath of fire, and then wraps her body around herself in her dragon house. After more of these episodes, he and his mother get a closer look from a safe distance until the spasms are over. Slowly approaching her, he finds Dragonya exhausted, but calm and eager to receive a scratch on the neck.
Look, he shouts, pointing into the jewelry box shaped dragon house.
Hush, cant you see shes exhausted, his mother scolds.
Mom, theres an egg!
Four I imagine, Dragonyas just trying to cover them for warmth.
Oh mom, when will they hatch? he whisper shouts with excitement.
Well have to call the dragon shop and see.
When his father arrives from work, Jimmy rushes to him to drag him into the backyard. Eggs dad, Dragonya laid four of them! And theyre gonna hatch, and well have little draglings!
Stopping to look at the sleeping, scaly, lizard laying atop a nest of their valuables, his father takes a deep contemplative breath. Great, now what are we gonna do? Theres no guaranteeing that well be able to sell them all.
His mother smiles. Oh, well make do. She rubs her own womb tenderly and looks up at them batting her eyelashes. Jimmy, how do you feel about becoming a big brother?
He looks to his dad, and the man passes out.
Read more stories by this author
This story has been viewed: 2529 times.
Did you enjoy this story? Show your appreciation by tipping the author!


text:
Main Content
In 1960, my grandfather, Richard Gardner, took over management of Gardner's TV and Appliances in Reading, Pennsylvania, a thriving business for an additional 34 years. Although today the most common household appliance you'll see me use is a corkscrew, I'm proud to continue my family's small business legacy while maintaining my connection to support the local Pennsylvania agricultural economy.
Read more about Denise.


text:
Oliver Twist (BBC 2007) - Timothy Spall
Shipping Destinations for this item
You Save: £14.80
This gripping take on Charles Dickens' classic remains faithful to the spirit
of the novel while delivering a modern, thrilling, tragic and occasionally comic
Oliver is born into poverty and misfortune - the son of an unmarried mother, who dies shortly after his birth; he is soon delivered to the workhouse. There, the cruel Mr Bumble oversees children tormented by starvation and suffering. When Oliver dares ask for more gruel, he finds himself cast out and forced to make his own way in the world.
Running away to London, Oliver meets the Artful Dodger and his gang, as well as the beautiful Nancy and gets the first warm welcome of his life - but he is soon to discover that this kindness requires its own type of payment.
As Oliver is drawn deeper into the dark and murky underworld, he remains unaware that the kind Mr Brownlow is searching for him, while others - the brutal criminal Bill Sikes, the manipulative Fagin and the mysterious Mr Monks - are vying to ruin and destroy his life...
Behind the scenes, A new Oliver Twist featurette
More Detail
Region 2
Sound: Dolby Digital
Main Language: English


text:
Monday, November 28th, 2016
- Had a hard conversation with a member of my team today. Not the news I wanted to hear but I am grateful for the opportunity to extend my help to this good human.
- A moment to myself…in a busy day of meeting after meeting, I found a few brief moments to sit in the atrium and think.
- My sister and nephew Zach had me in stitches tonight via text. I am grateful for humor and family.
No comments yet.