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"Broadly speaking the public face of the American movie world is the movie star. In Europe it is the director. What Europe and America have in common, though, is the invisibility of the screenwriter."
Guy Hibbert
REPORT Highlights the Need for Heightened Visibility of Screenwriters at Film Festivals
Researched and written by Cathy John
The aim of this investigation was to scrutinise the role of screenwriters at film festivals. It was initiated by the International Affiliation of Writers Guilds (IAWG) and Federation of Screenwriters in Europe (FSE). This joint initiative arose from the 2009 World Conference of Screenwriters in Athens, where it was resolved that the vital contribution of screenwriters needs to be more fully acknowledged both within the film industry and in the public arena at large. Investigating how screenwriters were recognised at film festivals was the first step in this broader initiative.
- Press Release
- Full Report with Appendices (WARNING: 104 pages; 3.2 MB)
- Main Report (20 pages)
- Appendix 1
- Appendix 2
- Appendix 3
- Appendix 4
- Appendix 5
- Appendix 6
- Appendix 7
- Appendix 8


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About Wolf & Badger
Wolf & Badger is an innovative multi-channel retail platform for independent brands. Founded in 2010, we promote, support and retail the most exciting independent designer brands from the UK, US and around the world. Alongside our award-winning website, we have showroom stores in London and New York.
We are currently recruiting for key positions in both London and New York as we continue to grow our team and expand operations worldwide. We're always seeking like-minded, motivated individuals who share our ethos and aspirations and who want to work in a fun and creative work atmosphere. Available jobs are listed below, apply now to join us on the next chapter of this exciting and rapidly growing international business.

subset: commoncrawl


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Previous | Next | Issues Home | Career Corner | Health | Personal Finance
Well, OK, you can't exactly print dollar bills using your A/C unit. You can, however, do the equivalent by saving money on how efficiently your air conditioner operates. In addition, the last thing we want is to have our air conditioner go belly up during these hot months, and proper maintenance can help avoid that. If you're already in the market for a new central air conditioner or window unit, you can STILL save money.
"I want to save the money! How, how, how???" Easy! Just follow the pointers below to the article most appropriate to your situation.
1. Optimize your existing air conditioning system with one of these articles from Better Homes and Gardens: "Maintaining a Central Air-Conditioner" or "Maintaining a Room Air-Conditioner."
2. Install the right new air conditioning system. Check out the Union of Concerned Scientists' article "Saving Energy While Staying Cool." If you're in the market for a new central unit, be sure to consider a ground-connected heat pump (a.k.a. geothermal HVAC). These may cost more up front but they save big-time on heating and cooling bills.
3. Do it the old fashioned way by using techniques like ventilation and evaporative cooling — see the US Department of Energy's page on Cooling Systems.
You can also help cut cooling costs simply by being smart about using your window shades and drapes. Keeping the shades down and the drapes closed helps reject sunlight coming through the window (which would add heat to the room due to the greenhouse effect) and also improves the insulation value of the window. During the summer, in theory, you would want to keep the windows covered all the time, but doing that also cuts down on daylighting and gives one the feeling of living in a cave. A compromise is to just keep the shades down at night and anytime the sun is shining directly on a window.
So, you can save some money, no sweat. Maybe you'll end up with enough for an extra day of your vacation to Six Flags Over Disney Park Beach. Cool!
A few hot summer quotes
"We all learn by experience but some of us have to go to summer school." — Peter De Vries
"It's a sure sign of summer if the chair gets up when you do." — Walter Winchell
"A perfect summer day is when the sun is shining, the breeze is blowing, the birds are singing, and the lawn mower is broken." — James Dent
"A lot of parents pack up their troubles and send them off to summer camp." — Raymond Duncan
"Sometimes I get bored riding down the beautiful streets of L.A. I know it sounds crazy, but I just want to go to New York and see people suffer." — Donna Summer
Mark is a writer, financial analyst, Web developer, environmentalist, and, as necessary, chef and janitor. Grinning Planet is an expression of Mark's enthusiasm for all things humorous and green, as well as a psychotic desire to work himself half-to-death. Hobbies include health foods, music, getting frustrated over politics, and occasionally lecturing the TV set on how uncreative it is. For jokes, cartoons, and more great environmental information, visit http://www.grinningplanet.com.© 2008 Mark Jeantheau
The views and opinions expressed in these articles do not necessarily reflect those of College Central Network, Inc. or its affiliates. Reference to any company, organization, product, or service does not constitute endorsement by College Central Network, Inc., its affiliates or associated companies. The information provided is not intended to replace the advice or guidance of your legal, financial, or medical professional.


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Krusteaz offered me the opportunity to try some of their new gluten free mixes, and I was eager to see what they were like. They sent a package that included their gluten free pancake mix, GF blueberry mix, GF cornbread and GF brownie mix. I immediately made a batch of their GF cornbread to give to a friend for dinner. I of course, saved some for us, and was impressed with how much we liked it. It was sweet and held it's form but it wasn't at all dry.
The next time I made the GF cornbread, I was serving a crowd. In an effort to try something new and make sure the cornbread didn't disappear before all guests could try it, I made it into soup croutons.
The croutons were perfect for this healthy and simple meal of Black Bean soup.
Gluten Free Cornbread Croutons
- 1 box of Krusteaz GF Cornbread Mix
- 1 can of creamed corn
- 1 egg
- 1/3 c. oil
- 1/2 c. milk
- In a medium bowl, empty cornbread mix.
- Add 1 can of creamed corn, 1 egg, oil and milk.
- Stir to combine.
- Pour batter into a greased 8×8 pan.
- Bake at 375 for 25-32 minutes or until cooked through the middle.
- If you'd like cornbread croutons to be crunchier, cut them into pieces and place pieces on a cookie sheet.
- Bake again at 375 for 5-10 minutes until they get crunchier.
- Enjoy on top of soup or salad!


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On Des Taylors own Facebook page is a petition he has recently created for the introduction of no lethal means of control of the Otter.
As Des has put it bluntly and rightly so Thousands of you have been moaning about the situation now its time to stand by your post.
If you havent been affected by them, then you will most likely know the devastation they can cause to fisheries. Think about others too and for the future of the sport.


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Varanasi is one of the
oldest surviving cities worldwide and an important pilgrimage
destination not only for Hindus.
Mahal - Symbol of Love
The Taj
Mahal is regarded as the most perfect jewel of Muslim art in India.
This huge mausoleum mosque was built by Shah Jahan, the fifth Muslim
Mogul emperor, in memory of his beloved wife, a Persian princess
born as Arjuman Bano Begum but known as Mumtaz Mahal.
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Camel Fair
Pushkar Fair begins on Kartik Shukla Ekadashi, which falls in the
month of October-November and goes on for five long days till Kartik
Purnima. The fair is synonymous to a cattle fair.
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The Greek Islands offer a fascinating history laced with legend and spectacular landscapes with olive groves, small villages clinging to hillsides and clear turquoise seas - a winning combination for a refreshing island-hopping holiday
We offer a wide choice of Greece cruises on a variety of small ships, including small luxury vessels, megayachts, tall sailing ships and gulets.
The 200 islands of the Cyclades circle the sacred island of Delos. Fashionable Mykonos is renowned for its windmills, Paros for its wild spring flowers, and the volcanic island of Santorini, with its houses perched on the cliffs, is the scene of many postcards and views of Greece.
In the northerly Sporades Islands are Skiathos, with over 70 beaches and a rugged coast, and the vineyards and mountains of Skopelos where Mamma Mia was filmed.
In the Dodecanese Islands, visit Patmos with the pretty harbour town of Skala and the Cave of the Apocalypse where St John wrote the Book of Revelation. The larger island of Rhodes has a unique walled old town set around its harbour. Picturesque Symi, set around a superb natural harbour with classical style houses under a barren rocky hillside, and the popular tourist destination of Kos are also visited.
Further south is the very mountainous island of Crete, the fifth largest in the Mediterranean and great walking territory, criss-crossed with donkey trails. Visitors are drawn by the dramatic landscape and the famous Minoan Palace of Knossos.
Around the Peloponnese Peninsula, the Ionian islands include Zakynthos, well-known for Shipwreck Bay and popular with divers; and Corfu, famous for its beaches and landscapes and offering a blend of Italian and Greek cultural heritage with stunning classical architecture.
Some Greece cruises include calls to the Turkish port of Kusadasi for visits to the impressive remains of Ephesus, and further north, to the exotic city of Istanbul. On mainland Greece, calls to Katakolon are an opportunity to see the equally impressive remains of Olympia.
Greek Island cruises may also take in the atmospheric island of Sicily, the Italian Riviera and the Croatian coast and islands.
All of our Greek Islands cruises are shown below. Tick the boxes to filter by date, type and duration.
Star Flyer
Cruise from Malta to Athens aboard Star Flyer and discover the lesser-known Greek treasures of Monemvasia and Nafplio, and beautiful Syracuse on Sicily
2020 - Apr
Save 20% PLUS exclusive £50pp discount!
Cruise Only From £994pp
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Aphrodite and Harmonia
Enjoy refreshing swim stops in secluded bays, dine ashore in traditional Greek tavernas and explore quaint villages on this relaxing 7-night gulet cruise showcasing the idyllic Ionian Islands, with return flights from the UK
2019 - May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct
Fly Cruise Package From £1199pp
View Full Details
Discover the fascinating history of the Peloponnese, with highlights including ancient Olympia, the sacred site of Delphi and a transit of the spectacular Corinth Canal. Includes an expert historian guest speaker and return flights from the UK
2019 - Mar, Apr, Nov
Save 40% on cruise cost OR low single supplement!
Fly Cruise Package From £1321pp
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Sail to picturesque Greek Islands and Turkey's Turquoise Coast with the opportunity to see the famous Lycian tombs in Dalyan and explore Santorini and the small island of Hydra
2019 - May, Jun, Aug
2020 - May, Jun, Aug
Save 10% on 2020 departures PLUS exclusive £50pp discount on all departures!
Cruise Only From £1322pp
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Join Star Flyer on this 7-night sailing voyage visiting the archaeological jewels of Patmos, fashionable Mykonos and Kusadasi in Turkey for Ephesus
2019 - May, Jun, Jul, Aug
2020 - May, Jun, Sep
Save 10% on 2020 departures PLUS exclusive £50pp discount on all departures!
Visit Skopelos and Skiathos which were used as filming locations for Mamma Mia on this cruise around the Greek Islands and the beautiful Turkish coast, with opportunities for snorkelling, diving and watersports
2019 - May, Jun, Aug
2020 - May, Jun, Aug
Save 10% on 2020 departures PLUS exclusive £50pp discount on all departures!
Aegean Odyssey
Explore classical Greece with this 8-night cruise around the spectacular islands of Greece including Santorini, Rhodes and Crete. Includes return flights from the UK and guided excursions.
2019 - Apr
12-night itinerary from just £2495pp!
Fly Cruise Package From £1550pp
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Join tall ship Star Flyer on this 10-night sailing cruise and discover the highlights of Greece and Croatia with visits to the idyllic islands of Santorini and Mykonos, the historic city of Dubrovnik and the islands of Korcula and Hvar
2019 - Jul, Aug, Oct
2020 - Jul, Aug, Sep
Save 10% on 2020 departures PLUS exclusive £50pp discount on all departures!
Cruise Only From £1867pp
View Full Details
Choice of Ships
Discover the idyllic Greek Cyclades Islands, including the lesser-known gems of Paros and Antiparos on board traditional 49-passenger yacht Galileo
2019 - Apr, May, Jun, Aug, Sep, Oct
2020 - Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct
Fly Cruise Package From £2057pp
View Full Details
Harmony G
Discover the treasures of Greece, including beautiful Santorini, Crete and Mykonos on board 46-passenger Harmony G, from Athens
2019 - May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct
2020 - Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct
Save 25% on cruise cost OR low single supplement!
Fly Cruise Package From £2205pp
View Full Details
Uncover ancient civilisations on this 7-night cruise across the Adriatic Sea to Croatia's dramatic Dalmatian coast, Montenegro and the stunning Greek Islands. Includes return flights from the UK and shore excursions
2019 - Apr, Jun, Aug
2020 - May, Aug
2021 - Mar
Save £500pp PLUS free gratuities!
Fly Cruise Package From £2490pp
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Sail the beautiful Adriatic Sea to the classical sites of ancient Greece on this unforgettable 12-night discovery cruise from Venice with a 2-night hotel stay in Athens. Includes return flights from the UK, guided excursions and guest lecturers
2019 - Sep
Fly Cruise Package From £0pp
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Azamara Journey
This luxury holiday aboard Azamara Journey is the chance to see the best of the Mediterranean's treasures in Greece and Turkey from the iconic blue domes in Santorini to the ancient ruins of Ephesus
2019 - Oct
Cruise Only From £2799pp
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This unique 10-night luxury cruise explores the stunning coasts of Italy, Croatia and Montenegro before discovering the magical gems of the Greek islands.
2019 - Jul
Free Internet PLUS a Choice of a Free Beverage Package, 6 Free Shore Excursions or $600 Shipboard Credit!
Cruise Only From £2879pp
View Full Details
Le Lyrial
Join luxury ship Le Lyrial in Athens and explore the wonders of the Adriatic on this 9-night cruise through Italy, Greece, Croatia and Montenegro. Includes open bar throughout the cruise and evening entertainment.
2020 - Aug
Save up to 30% PLUS exclusive £50pp Blue Water discount!
Cruise Only From £2894pp
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Join brand new Viking Star journeying from Venice along the Croatian coast and on to the idyllic Greek islands, visiting ancient ruins, charming towns and medieval cities. Includes return flights from the UK and shore excursions
2019 - Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Sep, Oct
2020 - Apr, Jun, Jul, Sep, Oct
2021 - Mar
Save £500pp PLUS free gratuities!
Fly Cruise Package From £2990pp
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Join Le Lyrial on this luxury voyage to the beautiful Greek islands of Hydra and Kefalonia, the stunning Italian coast and the islands of Sicily and Corsica
2019 - Aug
Save up to 20% PLUS exclusive £50pp Blue Water discount!
Cruise Only From £2991pp
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Seadream II
Discover the highlights of Greece including Hydra and Delphi on this luxury full-board Mediterranean cruise from Athens to Dubrovnik. Includes use of watersports marina and gratuities
2020 - Jul
Cruise Only From £3538pp
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Seven Seas Explorer
Enjoy a two-night hotel stay in the alluring city of Venice, before joining luxurious Seven Seas Explorer for an all-inclusive cruise to the highlights of the Adriatic, with return flights from the UK and private overseas transfers
2019 - Apr
Exclusive Blue Water Package!
Fly Cruise Package From £4995pp
View Full Details
Silver Shadow
Enjoy breath-taking performances by talented soloists from the most famous opera houses of the world on this 11-night opera themed voyage. Cruise from Greece through Israel discovering ancient religious monuments and vibrant cities. Includes return flights from the UK, unlimited complimentary drinks and pre-paid gratuities.
2019 - Oct
Save up to £400 per suite!
Fly Cruise Package From £5850pp
View Full Details
Saga Sapphire
Southampton - Motril (Spain) - Valeetta (Malta) - Messina (Sicily) - Alexandria (Egypt) - Ashdod (Israel) - Haifa (Israel) - Limassol (Cyprus) - Santorini (Greece) - Mykonos (Greece) - Istanbul (Turkey) - Piraeus (Greece) - La Goulette (Tunisia) - Gibraltar - Southampton
2020 - May
No Fly Cruise From £7880pp
Call to Book
Piraeus is 12 kilometers south-west of Athens and is the city's port. The port town itself has a long nautical history, as told in the Maritime Museum, and close to the port is the area of Piralki and its fish taverns. Walking beyond the peninsula, the coast is dotted with picturesque creeks. The hillside area of Kastella has narrow alleys, the church of Profitis Ilias and fantastic views of the Acropolis.
Chios is well-known for its wild jasmine and a cluster of medieval villages, the Mastihochoria. Mesta, a castle-village, is little-changed since the 14th century and Pyrgi has uniquely decorated black and white plastered houses. Chios is also renowned for the World Heritage Site of Nea Moni, an 11th-century monastery with wonderful mosaics. The prettiest region of the island is Kambos, a green valley where the Genoese built their villas among citrus groves and ancient cisterns.
Corfu Town, or Kerkyra, is the charming port for the lovely island of Corfu. There are many restaurants and shops radiating out from Kapodistra and the elegant, colonnaded Liston building. Overlooking the harbour is the palaia Anaktora, formerly the residence of British-Greek royalty. Paleokastritsa has lovely beaches backed by olive, cypress and lemon trees, and one of Corfu's key sights is the handsome Palace of Achilleion and its gardens.
The Corinth Canal connects the Gulf of Corinth with the Saronic Gulf and the Aegean Sea, allowing ships to avoid a journey of 430 miles around the Peloponnese Peninsula. It is almost 4 miles long, with steep cliff walls reaching a height of 52 meters. The journey through the canal is dramatic, as the width of the water is just 79 feet, and most vessels must be boarded by the pilot and towed by a Tugboat.
The sacred and uninhabited isle of Delos is one of the most important archaeological sites in Greece. It was a holy sanctuary where death and birth were forbidden by the Delphic Oracle, and the impressive remains lead off from the Sacred Way and include the Maritime Quarter, Terrace of Lions, the House of Dionysus and the Sanctuary of Apollo.
The town of Heraklion has a picturesque harbour, tree-shaded squares and a splendid Venetian loggia and fountains. Boutiques can be found on Daedalou Street, and curios and gifts along 1866 Street. Koules Venetian Fortress is situated on the harbour walls close to the Natural History Museum of Crete, where visitors can stand on the 'experience an earthquake' platform. The famous Minoan Palace of Knossos is only 25 minutes' drive from Heraklion.
The small seaside town of Katakolon has a beach at the end of the pier, and tavernas and bars along the waterfront. It is used as the gateway to the ancient site of Olympia, 35 kilometers away, which is where the Olympic Games began.
This is the largest of the Ionian Islands, and is largely unspoilt by tourism. The main port and capital is Argostoli, a modern town with a busy central square, the Plateia Valinou and shops along Lithostroto Street. Cephalonia is famous for the remote, curving arc of Myrtos Beach backed by steep cliffs and the underground lake of Milissani. The most picturesque coastal village is Fiskardo, which is also the oldest settlement on the island.
The Venetian harbour and town of Chania on Crete is an historic area with a thriving nightlife and waterfront restaurants. The Old Town area of Kastli is interwoven with narrow alleys and pretty balconied houses. Aside from the pleasure of exploring this picturesque town, places of interest include the Byzantine Museum, the Ottoman Baths and the Fortress of Souda on an island in the bay.
The island of Kos has long been a popular destination and has good facilities for tourists. It lies just off the Turkish coast, with mountainous terrain and good sandy beaches. Kos Town has a mixture of ancient, medieval and modern buildings, with broad, leafy streets. Connected to the town and harbour by a bridge is the 14th-century Castle of the Knights of Saint John. South of the town is the Asklepieion, the ruins of an ancient Greek centre of medicine.
Mykonos is one of the most fashionable and cosmopolitan of the Greek islands. Its hills are dotted with white-washed cube houses and churches, and the thatched windmills for which the island is famous. Pink pelicans are often spotted from the waterfront tavernas. The main sight in the town is lovely white domed Parportiani Church, which incorporates 5 separate buildings. The cruise port is a mile north of Mykonos Town, where ferries make the 40-minute journey to the sacred island of Delos.
Mytilene is the port for the island of Lesbos. There is a miniature version of the Statue of Liberty overlooking the harbour, which runs alongside the town. Teriade Museum has an excellent collection of books illustrated by Chagall, Matisse and Picasso and the town has a castle, parts of which date back to the 5th century, and neo-classical mansions.
Nafplion is one of Greece's most attractive towns with narrow streets, elegant Venetian houses and neoclassical mansions. On a high cliff overlooking the harbour is the Palamidi Fortress, built by the Venetians in the 15th century and accessible by a flight of 857 steps. Bourtzi Castle sits on an island in the bay, and hosts the summer music festival. Calls to Nafplion might include a visit to the ancient site of Mycenae.
Whitewashed cube houses, narrow paved alleys and wild flowers make Paros one of the most popular of the Cyclades. Cafes line the main street of the capital and port, Parikia, where the Monastery of the Hundred Doors was built in 4AD by Eleni the mother of Emperor Constantin. The white marble mined on Paros was used by sculptors in antiquity, notably for the Venus de Milo.
Skala is the pretty harbour of Patmos, built below the fortified monastery and the Sacred Grotto where St John wrote the Book of Revelation, both open to visitors. It is easy to get around by boat or bus, and around the harbour there are numerous picturesque tavernas and a few nightclubs. Beaches can be found at nearby Grikos and Diakofti.
Rhodes port in the ancient Mandraki harbour is next to the walled Old Town with shops, restaurants and chief sights all within walking distance. These include the Palace of the Grand Masters built by the Knights of St John, the Sulemain Mosque, Byzantine churches, Venetian mansions and old Crusader inns along the Street of the Knights. The famous Acropolis of Rhodes on a hillside beyond the city is not to be missed.
The best way to arrive in Santorini is by sea, with spectacular views of the high caldera walls and the cliff-top town of Fira. Cruise ships berth in the old port, where the journey to the town is via donkey or cable car ' either option provides dramatic views of the Mediterranean and the volcanic island of Nea Kameni. Along the narrow alleys of the cliff-top are brilliant white and blue buildings, and the much-photographed church of Ag Mina.
Thessaloniki is a free port and one of the Aegean's largest, being the trade hub of the Balkans and the cruising gateway to the eastern Mediterranean. This sophisticated city has several attractions, among them the Roman Place of Galerius, large squares beside the waterfront, traditional tavernas and an excellent Archaeology Museum.
The busy cruise, cargo and ferry port of Volos is surrounded by ancient sites and is situated on the Pelion Peninsula. To the west are the ruined acropolis of Dimini and of Sesklo ' the oldest in Greece - and across the Thessaly plains, the monasteries of Meteora, built on top of limestone pillars. Volos' waterfront and centre is full of shops, and bars and cafes are tucked away around St Nikolas Square.
Zakynthos is the most southerly of the Ionian islands. Its landscape is a mixture of mountains and plains, with a main town and port clustered around a waterfront of bars and white-cube houses. Navagio Bay is the beach famous for the shipwrecked hulk of the Panagiotis, and the offshore islet of Marathonisi is a nesting site for Caretta-Caretta turtles. The Blue Caves near Volimes are a major attraction and can be reached by local hire boats.
I hadn't been to the Greek Islands for a few years so was really looking forward to my week of island hopping on the megayacht Harmony V. I'm not a fan of large ships, so this sounded perfect - a relaxed, casual cruise with just 40 or so fellow passengers. I'm pleased to say that from the minute we boarded Harmony V, we were instantly made to feel very welcome on this immaculately maintained yacht. Moored at Marina Zea in Athens, the ship was easy to find and so much easier than setting off from Piraeus, the main port of Athens. From the outside, Harmony V looks exactly like a large private yacht, and the inside didn't disappoint either! My cabin was small but very well designed with lovely furnishings, flat screen TV and DVD player, a great shower/wet room and was very clean.
We met the cruise co-ordinator, Iossef immediately, who was absolutely fantastic - his knowledge of the islands we stopped at was amazing, he was very helpful and friendly and his briefings really made the cruise flow very easily. As on any small ship, the weather dictates the route to a certain extent and the itinerary is never set in stone. The captain had a wonderful knowledge of the Greek Islands, and ensured that the route we took was always the best
Mykonos and Santorini were the ports of call for the first two days with optional visits available to the impressive classical ruins of Delos, and an exploration of the island of Santorini. Excursions were not pushed on us - if we didn't want to take them we were given information about the places we moored and could spend relaxed days discovering for ourselves. However, we did take a couple of excursions which were good value for money and very informative, obviously in small groups as Harmony V is a small ship!
The cruise is on a half board basis, which is a perfect way to enjoy all that these lovely islands had to offer. We had a great buffet breakfast on board (fruit, cereals, pastries, plus all the usual hot food like bacon, eggs, sausages, toast) and then either had lunch or dinner on board depending on the schedule, meaning that we were free to enjoy a Greek salad in a harbour side taverna for lunch, or a great moussaka for dinner in the evening. The food on board was fabulous - lunch buffets were enormous and freshly prepared - a wide variety of salads and grilled fish, chicken and Greek specialities. Most of the time we had dinner on land, but enjoyed a memorable Greek night, complete with Greek dancing, plus excellent five course Captain's Dinner on board ship.
Where this cruise really excels is the ports this superb small ship can visit. We ventured far off the tourist trail and visited islands untouched by the large cruise ships - tourist-free places that the Greeks keep a well-guarded secret. My favourite of these was Kythira, with its stunning double bay, wonderful beaches, and amazing views from the top of the island. Another memorable highlight was sailing past Monemvasia and seeing this medieval walled town from the sea - a unique view that not many people get to see. This was a wonderful evening as we walked the short distance from Harmony V for a delicious meal in this atmospheric old town.
Another benefit of this relaxing cruise was being able to stop for a refreshing swim. Several times, the yacht cruised into a secluded, picturesque bay and dropped anchor so we could swim off the very useful platform at the back of the ship. There is no better feeling than swimming in the clear, warm waters of the Aegean sea in a tranquil and incredibly beautiful location! Floats, flippers and snorkels were always available - as was a small kayak for the more energetic guests!
With an interesting mix of Americans, Australians, Europeans and Brits on this cruise (just 40 guests altogether!), there was always someone to chat to, or a quiet corner of the ship to relax in. The crew were friendly and helpful, always working hard to make sure everything ran smoothly. Whilst not a luxury ship, Harmony V is classy and well-designed, superbly looked after, and has all the comforts you need. However, the real benefit of being on a small ship was the unique itinerary and superb destinations we could visit - this really felt like a tailor-made cruise on a private yacht and I recommend it whole-heartedly.
The Louis Majesty's standards were very impressive, excellent and friendly staff, fantastic food (far too much). As this was for our honeymoon, we decided to splash out and reserve an XG outside deluxe cabin (deck 7). Great standard, double bedded, plenty of storage space and good size shower room. Louis Majesty provided plenty of areas for people who wanted to relax, read a book or play cards and people tended to congregate around the pool bar/swimming pool area. I enjoyed a daily Jacuzzi dip. Even though on our departure the majority of passengers were German, French and Italian we didn't feel left out. The staff spoke a variety of languages with English as the main language. Signs, announcements, entertainment and menus were all in English. Entertainment was provided throughout the day from ping pong and dart matches to dance lessons and towel folding demonstrations. There was evening entertainment twice an evening, which was colourful and exciting. Our itinerary covered Italy, Greece, Ionian Islands and Albania. Each port of call allowed you plenty of time to look around. The time ranged from an hour and a half to a few hours. We particularly enjoyed Messina in Italy and Zante. I do have to say I found that the organised excursions to be a little expensive and not necessarily available with an English speaking guide we therefore went off on our own accord everytime we were in port. Overall I would highly recommend this to anyone who enjoys a relaxing style cruise with a continental feel. This was my husband's first time cruising and he is now hooked on the cruising style holiday. We can't wait for our next cruising adventure.
The MV Cristal is a small ship by current standards but very impressive, not least in the proportion of staff to guests. All the staff were smartly turned out, cheerful and very attentive, and spread over some 40 nationalities. The food was on the whole very good, with a choice of restaurants.
The itinerary was busy but well balanced, we enjoyed Istanbul very much, were very impressed with the very cheap and frequent tram system and would like to go back to sample the delights of this unique city in more detail. Ephesus too justified a further visit. We found the organised excursions to be very expensive but with some homework online prior to your holiday it is possible to use the local transport systems and to meet the local people. We personally find this sort of experience most rewarding and economical, and would be happy to pass on all the tips we accumulated.
We have already recommended Blue Water Holidays and the ship to some friends.
I had long wanted to visit the Greek Islands, and I had never been on a cruise. Skipton sounded a reassuring place on which to base this venture. Departing on April 20th, perhaps it was not surprising that only eight passengers had booked, and no doubt we were lucky that the cruise took place at all. A New Zealand couple, two pairs of Germans, and ourselves from the UK, with eight crew to minister to us. There could have been up to fifty customers. Not surprisingly, Diogenes V was replaced by a smaller boat: a 3 masted wooden schooner painted blue and brown, the H & B . We passengers all got on very well, and we had Silvia, a delightful guide, as well as the attentive and friendly crew. After some rearrangements we settled into cabins which were adequate if not spacious, and we shared a beautiful wooden interior as dining room and lounge, as well as a deck above with plenty of reclining chairs. Food and drink were plentiful and excellent. Our captain who was on leave from a large cargo ship, seemed to decide our itinerary on a daily basis, officially according to weather forecasts, though we suspected also according to his personal preferences, but everyone was happy. We went overnight to Santorini, then worked our way back to Athens by the end of the week. Mostly the weather was lovely, but we did encounter a force 7 gale, which caused us to to by-pass the last scheduled island, Kea, in case worsening weather kept us in port, so we headed back a day early and had a splendid if windy mainland excursion to Cape Sounion instead. It was unfortunate that the port of embarkation was changed at the very last moment from Piraeus to Lavrion, some fifty miles away, as we had booked a hotel in Piraeus for our arrival night after flying into Athens ... but a helpful Anglophile taxi-driver took us to Lavrion the next morning; and after three circuits of the harbour, he found the H & B tucked away beside a large ship. Despite this rather stressful start, we had a wonderful and memorable holiday.
This holiday was a wonderful experience, despite our ship being changed at last notice, but we were compensated (financialy and with 2 free excursion seeing the real greece as opposed to the busy tourist resorts.
To review the cruise I thought I would break down the cruise into it's various components in no particular order :-
Food. This was excellent. At breakfast everybody was catered for, from full English with all the trimmings, to continental and American with pancakes and maple syrup Lunch, this was generally a buffet but there was always plenty of choice and more than enough for everybody. Dinner usual consisted of 5 courses with a choice for the main course. In all cases the quality of the food was first class The bar prices, as you would expect were a little higher than local prices but extremely reasonable
Staff All the staff were extremely friendly and would go out of their way to help Accommodation W had a nice cabin with a large window and large and comfortable bed. If anything we could have managed with a slightly smaller bed and more drawer space The sunbathing area was quite sufficient although not everybody wanted to use the sun beds
Itinerary We certainly enjoyed the places we visited,although we felt that there was too much overnight sailing. On a small boat you can the engines running which is not good if you are a light sleeper. Whilst it is by far the best small boat we have been on for getting in and out of the water at the swimming stops the choice of stops could have been better, In two cases the sea was quite rough with strong currents taking people away from the boat
Conclusion We did enjoy the cruise and met a lot of friendly people
Having read some so-so reports of Seafarer Cruises, we found this one to be perfect. Spiros, the hotel manager, and his team went out of their way to make it a memorable holiday; the chefs produced meals of a very high quality, and Iossef, our cruise coordinator, was exceptional.
My friends and I had a great time on the Diogenis V. The crew was extremely accomodating and it was such a pleasure.
Thurs 11 Sept 2014
"We embarked 49-passenger Panorama II at Marina Zea in Athens for our relaxing Aegean Odyssey island-hopping cruise around the lesser-known gems of the Greek Islands. The first thing that struck us about the ship was the superb outside space on board. On a small-ship cruise like this, one of the best things is to be able to soak up the beautiful sights from the sun deck, or simply read a book in the shade at one of the many seating areas.
Another reason we chose this cruise was for the wonderful and unique swim stops. Again we were spoilt, with several stops in secluded bays for swimming, snorkelling and even kayaking from the ship's rear platform. Everyone on board joined in and several happy hours were spent swimming in the miraculously clear waters of the Aegean Sea.
Due to the small size of this motor sailing ship, everyone quickly got to know each other and enjoyed chatting over a glass of wine or local Greek beer (very good – I recommend Mythos!). With guests from numerous countries including New Zealand, Australia, France, America and Britain, the atmosphere on board was informal and unhurried – perfect for this beautiful destination.
I have been to Greece several times before, but was delighted at the sheer variety of the islands we visited. For me, these cruises are all about discovering hidden Greece. Far removed from the resorts on the larger islands, these destinations reveal sleepy villages of winding marble-clad streets; authentic Greek tavernas where the locals come to eat (at local prices!); sandy beaches with peaceful turquoise seas, and lots of ancient and medieval history to discover.
We enjoyed visiting islands that the tourists simply haven't got to yet – Patmos with its imposing monastery and Grotto of St John; unspoiled Syros with its beautiful beaches and medieval town, and delightful Samos with its friendly bars, tavernas and shops. Of course, also amongst the highlights were the sunset on stunning Santorini, a tour of ancient Ephesus and a night in glamorous Mykonos.
The crew on board were helpful and knowledgeable and went out of their way to make this cruise special. The bar staff knew our favourite drinks after just one day, and the ship was always immaculately clean and well looked after.
Instead of eating meals in the main dining room, everyone was welcomed on deck for meals – what better experience is there than eating delicious, freshly-prepared Greek food in the open air, with tantalising views of white-washed villages perched on cliff-tops? Half-board accommodation was a real bonus, as depending on the schedule we could either enjoy lunch or dinner in a traditional Greek taverna onshore. Most of the time we ate dinner on land, but had a memorable Greek night, complete with Greek dancing, plus excellent five course Captain's Dinner on board ship.
As on any small ship, the weather dictates the route to a certain extent and the itinerary is never set in stone. When overnight winds sprung up making visiting Mykonos that day impossible, we were taken to the island of Syros instead. By 9am, we had been given island information, maps, bus timetables, details of local beaches and even a guided walk around the town – the superb cruise co-ordinator Chara had obviously been up very early making sure we would have everything we could possibly need to spend a wonderful day on the island. We made it to Mykonos the next day so everyone was more than happy!
All in all, I have nothing but admiration for these relaxed, small ship cruises. With destinations ranging from Greece, Croatia and Italy to the exotic Seychelles, Cuba and the Azores, there is enough variety to keep anyone interested for many years!"
"It all went like clockwork, we were looked after splendidly at every stage."PH, Mekong
"Our next cruise will be on the Rhine and we'll be booking with Blue Water."SE, River Danube
"Friendly, helpful and excellent service from Michelle."MC, River Danube
"Your service through Fay in particular made all the arrangements hassle free."JA, River Rhone
"What a refreshing change to deal with such friendly and helpful people."KE, River Seine
"It is always a pleasure to deal with the Blue Water Holidays team."PH, River Rhone
"This is the second time that we have booked with you."SG, Adriatic
"I've booked through you several times and always had exemplary service! "LW, Northern Lights
"Kate was very efficient organising last minute changes of excursions."JM, Norwegian Fjords
"Your staff went out of their way to be helpful and answer all our queries."LA, Scottish Highlands
Read latest news, reports and comments in our Blog
Relaxed Maldives cruising with Yasawa Princess
Experience Norway's contrasting seasons on Hurtigruten's authentic coastal voyages!


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On Wednesday, January 30, at 10:00 a.m. in the North Hearing Room, the Senate Judiciary - Criminal Justice Committee will be hearing Senate Bill 184 "Castle Doctrine."
SB 184, sponsored by State Senator Steve Buehrer (R-1), would help restore the fundamental right of self-defense. This legislation would restore the right of individuals to respond in force in defense of their lives and family without fear of civil lawsuits by criminals.
Please make plans to attend this important hearing to help protect the right to self-defense for all the law-abiding citizens of Ohio.
Date: Wednesday, January 30
Time: 10:00 a.m.
Where: North Hearing Room
For driving directions, please click here.
If you are unable to attend, please contact members of the Senate Judiciary - Criminal Justice Committee today and urge them to support SB 184. Contact information for the Senate Judiciary - Criminal Justice Committee is listed below:
Timothy Grendell (R-18) chair
Telephone: 614-644-7718
Email: firstname.lastname@example.com
Bill Seitz (R-8) vice-chair
Telephone: 614-466-8068
Email: firstname.lastname@example.com
Lance Mason (D-25) ranking minority member
Telephone: 614/466-4583
Email: firstname.lastname@example.com
Steve Austria (R-10)
Telephone: 614-466-3780
Email: firstname.lastname@example.com
Keith Faber (R-12)
Telephone: 614-466-7584
Email: firstname.lastname@example.com
Tom Sawyer (D-28)
Telephone: 614-466-7041
Email: firstname.lastname@example.com
Tim Schaffer (R-31)
Telephone: 614-466-5838
Email: email@example.com
Shirley Smith (D-21)
Telephone: 614/466-4857
Email: firstname.lastname@example.com
Steve Stivers (R-16)
Telephone: 614/466-5981
Email: email@example.com


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Can you bring the heat while remaining cool as a cuke?
You will with this easy, spicy, refreshing summer salad. When I was a kid, my dad would take cucumbers from our garden, slice them and put them in a jar with nothing but apple cider vinegar, salt and pepper. The longer they sat, the better they were. A cool and crunchy treat on a hot summer day. Well this is a wink and a nod to that salad. Try using a variety of cucumbers. I've added English hothouse and Persian cucumbers to the mix. Seasoned rice vinegar gives it spicier tang. And the hot pepper flakes give this cucumber salad as much heat as you'd like to bring!
Naturally, this is one of those salads that gets better as it sits. But you can certainly whip it up at the last minute, to add a cool and crunchy side to any meal.
I've used cucumbers from my local farm market as well as English hothouse cucumbers and some smaller Persian cucumbers. Sliced spring onions add to the spice. White sesame seeds provide some extra crunch. But those hot red pepper flakes give this chilly summer salad a little (or a lot) of warmth.
This is such an easy side salad. Make it in the morning and it will be very flavorful in time for dinner.
And some things never change. I found myself doing exactly what I did in my youth. When the cukes are gone, I'd drink the vinegar right out of the jar! I love it that much and I hope you will, too!
Do one thing every day that scares you.
- 4-6 cucumbers (I used 1 large slicing cucumber, 1 large English cucumber and 4 small Persian cucumbers)
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1 Tablespoon of sugar
- ¾ cup of seasoned rice vinegar
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons red chile flakes (more or less to taste)
- 1 Tablespoon of white sesame seeds
- 6 spring onions, white and green parts, thinly sliced
- I used a mandolin to evenly and thinly slice all of the cucumbers. Toss the cucumbers in a large bowl with the sugar and salt. Let them rest for 30 minutes before transferring them to a colander for a good rinse. Drain them and then press them with a paper towel to absorb the excess moisture. Return them to your large bowl.
- In a small bowl, stir together the vinegar, garlic, chile flakes and sesame seeds. Pour this over your cucumbers and toss to coat.
- Cover and chill for at least 2 hours. When ready to serve, pour the cucumbers onto your serving dish and sprinkle with the spring onions. Garnish with a pinch more of sesame seed and red pepper flakes.


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Avenue Plaza
New Orleans, Louisiana
Avenue Plaza
New Orleans, Louisiana
Timeshare Owner?
Post your timeshare at Avenue Plaza for rent or sale in less than five minutes!
Avenue Plaza has a prime location on St. Charles Avenue in the Garden District, just minutes from the historic French Quarter. The famous New Orleans streetcar travels past the resort, putting the city's most famous sights within easy access. When you're not sightseeing, indulge in a visit to the Health Spa. The spa offers treatments, such as herbal wraps and therapeutic massages, as well as exercise equipment and whirlpools. A courtyard with a pool, a rooftop sundeck and hot tub, and a restaurant are among the resort's other amenities.
Formerly known as Avenue Plaza Resort and Pro Spa.
Loved The Hotel and The staff was friendly and very helpful! It was a change from staying on Bourbon Street and smelling puke when you walk outside in the mornings..There is a lot of convenient little eating areas for Breakfast and Dinner such as the Trolley Cafe and this Phenomenal Chinese restaurant called Ho-Shun just down the block! Your not that far from Bourbon street Or River walk however you do need to either drive or take the Trolley to that area cause it's definately not in walking distance.. Going back again for New Years and look forward to staying at this Place again.
We have stayed here by way of an exchange & found the room adequate & quiet. The valet parking is a real advantage if you drive there.
We avoided a timeshare presentation as we had been through that before via solicitation in the French Quarter. The sales pressure was so thick you could cut it with a knife. The sales people became so enraged when we declined purchasing that they even reneged on the van ride back to the Quarter.
Though the streetcar is out front, we found no attraction for the immediate neighborhood. Overall, our stay there was so so. We have exchanged in to New Orleans several times to many timeshare units. The French Quarter is always the focus of action. At the far corner, the Hotel de La Monnaie (II not RCI) has some free garage parking, helpful staff, but crappy rooms. We've stayed in others, but the consistent favorite for handiest location is the Quarter House.
Waivered between 4 and 5 stars, but could not think of anything I would change!
Everything is new. Staff the friendlist I have encountered at some 20+ time shares!
Stayed week before Mardis Gras, 2008 but plenty of action for me!
Easy access to Burbon Street via front door trolley, exact change of $1.25 required!
Several nice restaurants, Deli Grrocery store and Walgreens very close by!
Great computer facilities!
Reasonable parking rates if you choose to rent a car!
Avenue Plaza is our favorite place to stay in New Orleans. Someone below commented on the small size of the pool, but it is larger than most other NO TS pools. Reasonable rates for valet parking with in/out privileges. Really friendly front desk & valet staff.
Hint: If you like king sized beds, then you must get a studio unit. The 1 BR units only have 1 queen sized bed in the small bedroom. But, then the unit only sleeps 2. Perfect for a couple, but if you need to sleep 4 then get a 1BR (sofa bed in LR) or request a 2 queen bed studio.
A more than adequate jumping off place to the French Quarter. Wonderful restaurants a few minutes walk &poorboys next door. Easy trolley ride to French Quarter or other areas. Quiet Garden District strolls, tours, riverboats, zoo,etc. . Recently renovated from flood and everything improved from our last visit prior to flood. Staff was great and the the swamp tour we took with a Cajun wildlife biologist was a kick! Very impressed with the congeniality of the people as we suffered car problems and a local garage spent a day working on our vehicle and barely charged us anything since we host LSU for college world series baseball alot. We felt safe walking around and the music is wonderful. Only place we know that you to get a margarita to go thru a drive up window!
Perfect location, nice accommodations amenities, great restaurant, pleasat staff, accessible to highways.
Great stay at this Resort.Take the trolley to Boubon Street.
Had a great time.This is truly party town any time of year. The room was adequate. The accents & furnishinge were english royal. The pool out back was secluded & lush. Good time for one & all.
Date 12/15/04
We stayed at this resort on a RCI trade and found it to be quite good. The hotel is in the process of upgrading and we understand that it had become quite run-down. While we were there, it had only floors 11 and 12 complete. If you have not been here recently, things have probably improved.
We stayed in room 1216. It was a nice room and everything worked well. I found the kitchen not to be very well supplied for cooking, but with so many good places to eat at reasonable prices, it didn't matter much.
The staff was very friendly and made sure that everything was in order. Housekeeping brings fresh towels every day.
The location is 21 blocks from the French Quarter, and it is in the Garden District. The St. Charles Street Car stops right in front of the building, so getting around was easy.
Good location but hotel flooded first day we were there. Rooms were dark and moldy. We had sneezing attacks the whole time we were there. The Beds are not very comfy. The lobby is too small with nowhere to sit down. The "swimming pool" in the back courtyard looks like someone poured lots of detergent powder in it - that's how cloudy the water was. Also, this "pool" was about the size of a large jacuzzi. Two strokes and you've reached the other side! The courtyard itself was attractive notwithstanding the feeling that you were melting in the damp and heavy heat a la Heart of Darkness.
Their timeshare presentations were on second floor (good thing because the ground floor was knee deep in flood water). We were promised a swamp tour if we did the timeshare presentation, which we did but when we did not buy the timeshare, the rep refused to give the swamp tour to us, saying that it was only for people who had never bought a timeshare before and we already owned one (elsewhere).
They were pushing the Dophin's Cove in Anaheim, Ca as a great resort they own. Unfortunately for them, I had been there and it is far from being a "resort." More like an apartment complex. Please! In a nutshell - I do not recommend the timeshare presentation. They are very, very agressive - they kept us over 3 hours and then they reniged on the bait, saying it was a misunderstanding.
Hairdresser in hotel is very, very expensive - go to beauty shop across the street instead.
First Class Spa and location is excellant on St. Charles Street. Trolley stops at the door.
- Bar
- Fitness Center
- Outdoor Pool
- Restaurant
- Sauna
- Shared Laundry Facilities
- Spa Services
- Whirlpool/Hot Tub
- Casino (2 miles)
- Fishing
- Golf (3 miles)
- Grocery Store
- Live Entertainment
- Playground Area
- Shopping Area
- Tennis (1 mile)
- Theme Park
2111 St. Charles Ave.
New Orleans, Louisiana 70130
- Resort
- Resort cluster
Timeshare rentals
Timeshares for rent at Avenue PlazaAdd a posting
|Nights Nts
|Unit view Unit
|Beds/Baths Be/Ba
|5 nights
|$891 ($178/night)
|View: Varies
|Beds: 0 Baths: 1
|Sleeps: 2
|Verified & Protected
|07/19/19–07/22/19 New!
|3 nights
|$540 ($180/night)
|View: Varies
|Beds: 1 Baths: 1
|Sleeps: 4
|View Book
|Verified & Protected
|04/07/19–04/14/19 New!
|7 nights
|$850 ($121/night)
|View: Varies
|Beds: 1 Baths: 1
|Sleeps: 4
|View Book
|7 nights
|$1,450 ($207/night)
|View: Varies
|Beds: 1 Baths: 1
|Sleeps: 4
|7 nights
|$1,159 ($166/night)
|View: Varies
|Beds: 0 Baths: 1
|Sleeps: 2
Join the most trusted timeshare community
View all timeshare rentals and resales at Avenue Plaza by creating a free accountCreate a free account
Timeshare resales
Timeshares for sale at Avenue Plaza
Points/Credits for sale
|Club Wyndham
|84,000 - 1,233,000
|$475.00 - 28,000.00
|View all postings
|WorldMark, The Club
|6,000 - 70,000
|$1,450.00 - 12,500.00
|View all postings
|Price (Maint. fee)
|Week (Season)
|Unit view Unit
|Beds/Baths Be/Ba
|Price: $2,500 Maint. fee: $780 New!
|Week: Floating (high)
|Use: Annual
|Type: Deed
|View: None
|Beds: 1 Baths: 1
|Sleeps: 4
|View posting
|RedWeek Verified
|Price: $1,750 Maint. fee: $606
|Week: Floating
|Use: Annual
|Type: Deed
|View: Varies
|Beds: 0 Baths: 1
|Sleeps: 2
|View posting
- View Timeshare Rentals (2)
- View Timeshare Resales (2)
- About the Resort
- See Resort Amenities
- Read Resort Reviews (11)
- View Resort Address & Map
- Discuss This Resort


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Austrans Container Service is a private, family owned and operated logistics company dedicated to bringing client satisfaction and service excellence.
Our Mission Statement
To be recognised by our customers as the most efficient and capable provider of premier transportation and logistics services across Australia, by striving to continually exceedour client expectations in ensuring mutually beneficial results that allow both our clients and our business to grow.
Our Values
We treat our customers, suppliers and staff with respect, commit ourselves to an injury free workplace, uphold the highest standards of integrity, protect the environment, and create a culture of continuous improvement.
Environment Statement
Austrans Container Service is dedicated to being a good corporate citizen of our environment. It is an important precept to us in the services that we provide to minimise environmental pollution. By using inland shipping and rail, we make an important contribution to conserving natural resources of our environment. Our goal is to do no harm to people, property, or our planet.
Safety Policy
The personal health and safety wellbeing of each Austrans Container Service employee is of primary importance. The prevention of occupational induced injuries and illness will take precedence over operational productivity where necessary.
Austrans Container Service will maintain a health and safety program conforming to the best practices within the Logistics industry.
The object of this health and safety program is to keep accidents and injuries to an absolute minimum, and therefore, our goal is zero accidents and zero injuries.
Branded designs, develops and distributes licensed merchandise that strengthens our customers' brand values, increases revenues and connects with the consumers.
Our heart is in motorsport and we understand intimately what teams in this arena are looking for– from technical team requirements and the representation of a brand's image, to how to make fans feel more connected to their team or pilot. We use these insights to inform every design we produce.
Our Clients
We are trusted by the biggest names in motorsport to promote and strengthen their brands' commercial value through provision and sale of their own replica team wear and fan wear and through the management and provision of their sponsors' co-branded ranges.
Distribution Network
We sell our partners' products across the most extensive global network of retail, digital and trackside channels in the world today.
We are able to map our sales structure against our partners' core global target markets as required to connect our partners with the widest possible market to generate the greatest reach and return for their brand.
Retail Sales Channels
Our operations are truly global, with distribution channels on five continents delivering to more than 120 countries.
We currently distribute predominantly through four main channels; Independent retailers, Multiple retail trade, E-commerce & Event Retail (F1, DTM, Motorshows) throughout Europe, Middle East, US, Latin America and the Far East.
Further information at: http://branded.london/
ANE Electrics
ANE Electrics Pty Ltd was founded in 2007 on the mission of creating a new service model that would become the benchmark of the electrical solutions industry.
The culture of ANE reflects this driving ambition. Employees are selected based not only on their experience and qualifications, but their passion for excellence and their active contribution to improving ANE's ongoing service to clients.
ANE Electrics believes that this combination of client focus, integrity and superior service will drive the success of the business
and raise the level of expectation within the community.
ANE has a long history of being ethical, professional and proactive, and we are proud of our reputation with clients in both the private and corporate sectors of the community.
ANE's philosophy has always been to build long-term relationships with our client and most of our work comes through referral and repeat business.
ANE proudly service commercial, industrial and domestic clients throughout Victoria.
Further information can be found at: aneelectrics.com.au
Adams Alexander Pty Ltd is a boutique financial services firm helping business owners achieve their business, financial and lifestyle goals.
TODAY: We help you understand your past and current financial situation.
DEFINES: We identify your business, financial and lifestyle goals and come up with an action plan to help you achieve your goals.
TOMORROW: We help you achieve your goals and get where you want to be whether it be:
- Wealth Protection
- Wealth Creation
- Wealth Accumulation
- Wealth Distribution
We are here for you and are accessible and available to you. You can have peace of mind and comfort in knowing that your business has the assistance and support of a team of qualified professionals.
Further information is available at: www.adamsalexander.com


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Author Archives: charlestonCREblog
State Port Authority Closes $38M Sale to Lowe Enterprises for New Downtown Hotel
The long-awaited sale of a waterfront site downtown on Concord Street has closed to Lowe Enterprises where they plan to build a 225-room luxury hotel that should open in 2020. The price was $38M. The Post and Courier has the story here.
Mount Pleasant Bi-Lo Closing
Southeastern Grocers of JAX FL announced it will close the 46,000 SF Bi-Lo at 1440 Ben Sawyer Blvd. in Mount Pleasant in January, their 3rd such closure announcement for CHS in the past year. It closed the Remount Road store in April and their downtown Meeting Street location in September. Warren Wise of The Post and Courier has the story here.
One Down, One to Go – Kmart Closing N CHS Store
The BigKmart at 8571 Rivers Avenue in (far) North Charleston will close in March, one of 78 stores (and 26 Sears) announced – and 30 Kmarts and 16 Sears announced in late December. Only the Kmart on Ladson Road in Summerville remains in the CHS region. The Post and Courier's Warren Wise has the story here.
Lowes Foods Planning 2nd Store in CHS
The Winston-Salem-based grocery chain is planning its next store in CHS, this one at Oakbrook Square in Summerville in a center that will be substantially renovated by RealtyLink, after acquiring the center in November at about $70/SF and will add about 35,000SF. Lowes has a similar-size (49,500 SF) store planned in Mount Pleasant near Dunes West. Warren Wise of The Post and Courier has the story here.
Oobe Men's Clothing Opening on King Street in February
Upstate-based Oobe Meanswear will open a King Street store in a 2,700 SF building at 161 King Street.
3rd Chick-Fil-A Planned for Mount Pleasant Among Other Retailer News
Warren Wise of The Post and Courier brings us up to date on all rumors and confirmed stories regarding retail in CHS, including:
- A new Chick-Fil-A in Mount Pleasant, this one at 653 Long Point Road just outside I-526 and across from the Harris Teeter anchored Belle Hall Shopping Center
- Bikram Yoga and a Blue Water c-store are also coming to Mount Pleasant
- PetSmart opened a new store at 850 Folly Road in the Super Bi-Lo anchored center on James Island
- Waffle House is opening its 8th area location, this one in N CHS at Sumner Avenue and Paulson Street, opposite a new Bojangle's
- McDonald's is planning a store at 1645 Red Bank Road near the new Wal-Mart Neighborhood Market in Goose Creek/Berkeley County near SPAWAR
- A new Fresh Produce women's clothing store opens at 218 King Street downtown, in the former Nine West store, relocating its nearby store out of Shops at Belmond Charleston Place
No More Room ? City Officials Stop Approval of New 50-Room Hotel
Dave Munday of The Post and Courier reports that the Charleston zoning board may be tapping the brakes on new hotel development in the city center with the decline of a request for a new 50-room hotel at 36 N. Market Street downtown.
CHS Finishes Strong As Site for New Manufacturing Choices
After recent wins such as Volvo and Mercedes and Boeing, Charleston remains strong as a choice for new manufacturing according to a national industrial site selection expert; among CHS' strengths:
- Trident Technical College collaboration with the private sector and the nation's best workforce training programs
- Low taxes and less regulation interference
- Quality of life
- Right-To-Work state, with only 2.1% workers unionized
Charleston ranked #3 among 24 "hot-manufacturing markets" studied by Princeton, NJ-based The Boyd Co. that studies site selection opportunities for companies nationwide.
David Wren has the story here for The Post and Courier.
Trident Tech To Build Aeronautical Training Center in N CHS
Thanks to a couple of large gifts from local business folks, led by The Zucker family, Trident Technical College will build an $80M aeronautical training center on its main campus in North Charleston, per an article for The Post and Courier by David Wren.
Boeing Supplier Safran Expanding in CHS
Another Boeing supplier, Safran Landing Systems, is investing $7M in the region and hiring about 15 new jobs as they supply wheels and brakes for the main landing gear. David Wren has the article here for The Post and Courier.


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As a leading commercial painting company New Hampshire, Home Partners never fails to impress. The professionalism of our highly-skilled painters is evident in their service delivery schematics showcased by the exterior and interior general contractor services that are offered. Quality artistry is the approach we take on each home and office projects.
Experienced Interior Painters in Sunapee
The Home Partners' family believe in the concept of preparation and strategic planning as the core factors that fuels the success of their interior remodeling projects. The licensed painters at Home Partners can assist in moving and covering furniture, the removal of wall hangings, and cover carpets. Moreover, we encourage the idea of working with our clients to determine ideal paints and colors that suit your residential interior or commercial expectation and outlook.
Moreover, after the successful completion of each painting project, a thorough cleanup routine is endorsed.
Interior Painting Services in Sunapee, NH
- Trimming
- Paint Stripping
- Wallpaper Removal
- Wall Staining
- Commercial Interior Painting
- Residential Interior Painting
Best Exterior Painting Company in Sunapee, NH
While performing a paint job on your Sunapee, NH exterior, we take extreme caution while preparing the surface so that the result is a paint job that is not only long-lasting but also durable. The first step taken by the Home Partners group is the objective towards the removal of any dirt or mildew evident on the exterior. Our dedication is towards the customization of an exterior painting project whose beauty is an added value for your home or business.
Sunapee Exterior Painting Services
- Power Washing
- Commercial Exterior Painting
- Residential Exterior Painting
Reliable Sunapee Remodeling Contractors
The Home Partners offer more than just painting contracts; they also involve themselves in home and office repairs in addition to home remodeling. A large remodeling project might not sync with your busy schedule, and that is understandable to our skilled contractors. But if you insist on the preference of a do-it-yourself project, you will be venturing into the project without the expert professionalism, value, and craftsmanship that Home Partners would have guaranteed.
General Contractor Services in Sunapee, NH
Door Replacements and Installations
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- Ceiling Repairs
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Why Sunapee Business and Home Owners Should Consider Home Partners
Home Partners deliver durable designs in the remodeling or paint job projects they undertake. They are perfectionists when it comes to their finishing prowess as they avoid common damages that may occur to the ceilings, floors, woodwork, or furnishings. They work with the best of the best in the paint contracting business. Thus, they will fuel you with the ultimate confidence and in the long run, exceed your expectation with flawless results.
Licensed Professional Painting Company Servicing Sunapee, NH
All types of remodeling and painting services in Sunapee are serviced by our professional painting contractors. The crew is always insured, licensed, and bonded. Any burden concerning our workers' liability insurance and compensation coverage is our mandate. In turn, your employees, family, and belongings are under our protection during the completion of any interior or exterior project that requires improvement. Home Partners are reachable at (802) 296-2999. Furthermore, we have an Online Project Estimate Form that you can take a look at before filling in the necessary details.


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Date of Issue : 20 September 2016
seven special stamps by Australia Post representing endangered animals that are part of current zoo and/or other conservation programs in Australia. These animals are at risk of extinction and are classified as either Endangered or Critically Endangered according to Australian and international measures. Three animals are exotic and four are native. The critically endangered animals are depicted here individually.
The large definitive stamp, representing the Southern Corroboree Frog Pseudophryne corroboree, commemorates the centenary of Taronga Zoo in NSW, which has breeding programs for this rare frog. At just 2.5–3cm in length, this small, brightly coloured amphibian is one of the world's rarest frogs.
The carnivorous Snow Leopard Panthera uncia syn. Uncia uncia is a large cat native to mountain ranges of central and south Asia at altitudes of 3,000 to 4,500 metres. These cats are rarely seen because they inhabit harsh terrain with an extreme climate and are distributed across a range of over two million square kilometres across 12 countries.
The Asian Elephant Elephas maximus used to roam over most of Asia, but is now restricted to just 15 per cent of its original range. The population has declined by at least 50 per cent over the last 60–75 years. The most recent estimate of the global population is 41,430.
The Western Lowland Gorilla Gorilla gorilla gorilla is a large primate native to the rainforests of central Africa, specifically in lowland forest and swamp forest from sea level to about 1,600 metres. Gorillas are mainly herbivorous. Their staple foods are pith, shoots and leaves. They also eat many species of fruit.
The short-necked freshwater Western Swamp Tortoise Pseudemydura umbrina is found only in two locations in a small area of the Swan Coastal Plain in Western Australia. It is Australia's most endangered reptile and measures just 11 to 13cm from nose to tail.
One of the world's rarest and most endangered species, the Orange-bellied Parrot Neophema chrysogaster, is on the brink of extinction. It is listed as Critically Endangered under the EPBC Act and on the IUCN Red List.
The Northern Quoll Dasyurus hallucatus is a small, omnivorous marsupial that once occurred across extensive areas of northern Australia. It has now contracted to only isolated populations.


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- ServicesOffered
- TheProcess
Our service can be divided into several phases. In a project these are most often.
1. Planning
In the planning stage we meet with you and your team and discuss your current business objectives, promotions, and goals. We then review your products and services and see how they are provided to your customers and clients. This process will give us a clear picture your company and the current business systems you have in place. The interview is the critical first step allowing us to come up with the best web site implementation for your business.
A site map will be drawn up next. This is a visual map of all your pages. In this 'big picture' stage we visually arrange on paper all the pages your site will need to fulfill it's goals and purposes. It is the site's master plan.
2. Technology
The next step is to determine the technologies needed to enable your web site for greatest impact. Some sites need contact forms for communication. Other sites may need to set up an online catalog and shopping cart to sell their goods. Still others may need to connect an existing database to their site to allow clients to read reports online. Whatever your situation we will determine the best way to use existing web site technologies to make your site dynamic and productive.
3. Design and Creation
Planning is finished and we are ready to design and build the actual web site. This process moves along smoothly because of a good planning process and client input. Our goal is to build you a site that can compete with all major brands and businesses now out on the web.
4. Testing
When your site is finished it will be exhaustively tested for cross-browser compatibility, links, included technology, and ease of use. You are able to view the site at this time and give valuable pre-launch input.
5. Search and Stats
If you request, your site will be optimized for search engines. Your site will be submitted to over 300+ directories and engines. This ensures that people searching the web for your products and services will find your site. Also optional is the set up statistics on your site. This allows you to view visitor activity on your web site. You will see the number of hits your site received, how visitors found your site, what key search engine words were used to find your site and much, much more. All reports are graphical and able to be downloaded.
6. Web Site Launch
At this time your site goes live to the public. The average time from 'Interview' to 'Launch' is about 30 to 60 days depending on the amount of technology used in your site. If you request we can coordinate a site launch 'blitz' using email, advertising, and branding techniques to get your site in front of your target audience.


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ESD.07[J] Statistical Thinking and Data Analysis
Class Info
Introduces statistical data analysis. Topics chosen from applied probability, sampling, estimation, hypothesis testing, linear regression, analysis of variance, categorical data analysis, and nonparametric statistics.
This class has 6.041 as a prerequisite.
ESD.07[J] will not be offered this semester. It will be instructed by R. Welsch.
This class counts for a total of 12 credits.
In the Fall 2014 Subject Evaluations, ESD.07[J] was rated 2.6 out of 7.0. You can find more information at the ESD.07 Class Site site.
MIT ESD.07[J] Statistical Thinking and Data Analysis Related Textbooks
MIT ESD.07[J] Statistical Thinking and Data Analysis On The Web
© Copyright 2015 Yasyf Mohamedali


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Volume 17, Number 6 June 2000
Consolidating electronic holdings files
by Terry Ballard
THE SYSTEMS LIBRARIAN column describes the process of consolidating a library's lists of paper and microform resources with its electronic resources, along with lists of resources from outside sources. Says that converting the periodical database into a Microsoft Access file allowed it to be exported and converted to Excel, and eventually into Adobe PDF files. Discusses problems with discrepancies between what vendors say they provide and what they really do provide. Mentions LEXIS-NEXIS Universe as a particular offender. Recommends jake, a union listing of full-text providers, as a valuable resource. Includes two screen displays.
Internet & Personal Computing Abstracts
© 2000 Information Today, Inc.


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We Can Work It OutbyHarddaysknight©
"Dad!" exclaimed my daughter Brandi as she wrapped her arms around my neck and gave me a hearty hug. "You look so much different. Your hair is shorter, your gut is gone, you look taller and you feel like a block of granite. Except for that scar on your cheek, I'd have to say that it looks like the Army agreed with you!"
"I haven't lost a pound, Sweetie, but I did manage to rearrange it a little. You're absolutely beautiful!" I gushed. "I'll be so proud to walk you down the aisle. I'm almost speechless!"
"If that happens, then I'll know for sure that the Army changed you. How was Germany, Dad? Did you get to see the sights, and go to Oktoberfest? I bet you have hundreds of war stories for us, like how you got that scar."
I flinched a little at Brandi's last comment, but managed to cover it over quickly by stepping back from her and motioning toward the attractive woman standing near by and who had just been witness to my reunion with my daughter.
"Brandi, this is Marge Becker. Unless there is some serious objection, she'll be my guest at your wedding," I told Brandi. "Marge, this incredible young woman is my daughter, Brandi."
"I am so pleased to finally meet you, Brandi," greeted Marge. "Your dad has told me so much about you. I see your concern, Brandi. I am only a guest and nothing more, so don't worry about explaining me to your mother."
"Phew! I was pretty upset there for a second. I sure don't need to spring something like this on Mom, especially at my wedding! Any friend of Dad's will always be welcome in my home, Marge. Did you meet Dad in the service?"
"Actually, I did. We were stationed overseas together and became friends. He is going to be the best man at my wedding next month," revealed Marge.
"Wow! That really takes the worry out for Mom! You're getting married? And Dad's the best man? That is so cool! Were you in Germany with Dad?" asked Brandi.
"Well, I was for a short while," hesitated Marge. "My fiancé will be picking me up the evening of your wedding and driving us back to Syracuse. Jack offered me a ride this far and insisted I attend his beautiful daughter's wedding, so here I am. Otherwise, I would have just flown from Washington to Syracuse. My fiancé, Ray, was more than happy to make the drive so I could be here for your special day."
"Here's the plan, Dad," began Brandi as she led Marge and me inside her apartment. "We're having my bachelorette party tonight, the rehearsal tomorrow night, and of course the wedding on Saturday. You remember Bill, the tailor at the men's shop in town. He said you must have been measured incorrectly for the tux. The measurements you sent him didn't jibe with what he remembered of you, so we'll fall back to plan B. You can wear your uniform at the wedding. I'm sure you'll look great and I'm so proud that my Dad spent the last two years serving our country. I want everyone to know you're my father and that you're a captain in the Army!"
"Retired captain in the Army, Sweetheart. I am out and my life is my own again," I chuckled.
"Whatever, Dad. Would you mind going with us girls to the different bars tonight? We have a limo rented, so you won't have to drive and you can even have a couple drinks, too. I know us girls will have too much to drink, so I want someone I can trust to watch over us. Can you keep your eyes on six lovely young women for five or six hours and make sure no harm comes to any of us?" grinned Brandi. "It's a tough job, but someone has to do it!"
"Sure, I'd be glad to," I quickly responded. "I assume you told your mother I was going to be here for the wedding. Is she expecting me tonight?"
"Well, Dad, that's a bit complicated. I told her you would be here for the wedding, but neglected to tell her you would arrive before the rehearsal. It just seemed simpler. I'm trying to avoid any uncomfortable situations, at least until after the wedding and hopefully, the reception."
"I understand, Brandi, but I think I'll go over and speak with her tomorrow, if I get the opportunity. We'll both be sure to remain focused on the fact that it's your big day. Everything will be fine," I promised.
"I hope so. To make sure, I reserved a room for you at the same hotel our guests are using. The limo will drop us all off there since I'm spending the night with Karen and Beth. We have a lot planned for tomorrow, like sitting by the pool and sobering up," laughed Brandi. "I'm afraid I didn't get a room for Marge. She will need her own room, won't she?"
Marge smiled as she responded, "Most definitely. Your father is much too particular to spend a night with me. I tried that a few times before I met my fiancé and never got anywhere with him. Now I'm afraid it's too late."
"Wow, Dad! That couldn't be much plainer. It sounds like you were a good boy even though temptation came your way. I'd have to say that not many men could resist the kind of temptation Marge offers," marveled Brandi. "You haven't gone gay, have you, Dad?"
I had been blushing from Marge's comment, but my face felt like it was on fire by the end of Brandi's little joke. My daughter was an adult and Marge was certainly treating her as one, seemingly to the point of forgetting she was my daughter. Marge and Brandi were both laughing at my discomfort.
Marge and I left for the hotel after agreeing to be ready for the limo at nineteen hundred hours. We had plenty of time for Marge to rent a room and get freshened up. Brandi had assured us that the limo had lot of seats for all of us. When it arrived, I saw why. It was the longest damn Hummer I had ever seen.
Brandi's friends were all lovely young women and I had no difficulty watching them as Marge and I sipped an occasional drink and chatted. We gave the girls lots of room and merely made certain they were not doing anything too foolish or dangerous.
It was after midnight and the girls insisted on visiting one more club. I didn't argue, although it appeared to me that they were all feeling no pain and should go home. How many of us have ever gone home at the right moment when we were out having a good time? Most of us try to ride that party horse till it drops. I understood that, so Marge and I simply followed along.
It was a little after one AM when the girls decided to call it a night. Marge and I exited the club and I signaled for the limo driver. Before he could pull up, the girls came laughing and stumbling out the door of the club. Suddenly, I noticed two guys with knives materialize out of the shadows. They hurried toward the girls, who were a few yards behind me.
I spun around and rushed back, managing to place myself between the two dirtbags and my charges.
"Get the fuck outta the way, Old Man!" shouted the one in front. "We want the bitches' wallets and jewelry. Maybe we'll have them show us their tits. We'll take your wallet, too, asshole!"
"Go fuck yourself, scumbag," I taunted. "I won't give a shit like you a fucking dime, you slimy cocksucker!"
That was all it took. The creep lunged at me with the knife held low and away from his body. Everything seemed to slow down as I thought back to the many times Sgt. Downs had gone over this very scenario with me.
I could almost here Sarge barking, "Step inside, block with your left, grab with your right, add your left, then take it back and up... hard!"
I felt the knife puncture the guy's stomach and sink to the hilt. I was just about to jerk it upwards when I heard Marge screaming, almost in my ear.
"Don't kill him, Jack! He's hurt bad enough. Let him go!" she pleaded as she pulled on my arm.
I swung the guy to my right and tossed him into his partner. Both felt backward to the concrete. Before the second one could get up, my heel caught him in the temple and he fell back to the pavement. I heard Marge talking to the 911 operator before I had picked up the second knife from the gutter. I decided not to remove the blade that was lodged in the first fellow's stomach, knowing I would probably do even more damage to his organs if I pulled it out.
"Holy fucking shit!" screamed Brandi's maid of honor, Beth. "What the hell just happened?"
That seemed to open the floodgates and the girls all started crying and carrying on as a crowd began to form. A cop car appeared within minutes. An ambulance was close behind. The cops questioned me, Marge, the girls, and the limo driver, who had seen the entire altercation. All the stories were the same. It was pretty obvious that we were not the perpetrators. It was almost three AM before we were allowed to leave, and that was only after supplying ID's and promising to stop at the police station the next afternoon to give written statements.
It was a subdued ride back to the hotel. I tipped the driver an extra fifty before following Marge and the girls inside. Marge was the only one still visible as I approached my room.
"Thanks, Marge. I was this close to killing that punk. What a thing that would have been right before Brandi's wedding. What have I become, Marge?" I asked rhetorically.
"A man that can, and will, take care of his family and friends," answered Marge softly. "And that is a very good thing!"
I slept soundly for what seemed a very short time. I woke to a pounding on my door. I looked at the clock and saw it was almost eight AM. Without thinking, I walked sleepily to the door and opened it, dressed only in my boxers.
"Dad, we were wondering if you wanted... Holy Cow! Have you been taking steroids, Dad?" gasped Brandi. "Did you get this scar the same time you got the one on your cheek? What the hell have you really been doing the last two years?"
As she spoke, Brandi was tracing a vivid scar that ran from my left pectoral down almost to my navel. I knew that over time, it would become less angry looking. At this point, however, it was quite obvious.
"It was an automobile accident, Sweetheart," I answered quickly. "I was cut by flying glass and yes, I did get both scars at the same time. Luckily, it wasn't anything serious."
Mr. Jenkins, if you don't mind my saying so, you sure are a hunk!" exclaimed Brandi's friend, Beth. "You saved our lives, and you look better than Jean Claude. I bet you could kick Chuck Norris' ass! From now on, we should call you Lionheart!"
"Beth, he's my dad, for god's sake! He's also married, at least for now, so don't even think about it!" warned Brandi. "We're going to breakfast since we're all too wired to sleep, although it doesn't look like you were having any problems, Dad. Want to go with us so we can ask you a million questions? The girls have already quizzed me for the past hour and I can't tell them anything. I don't think you want us to get Marge alone and question her, do you?"
I had gotten by on less sleep many times, so I nodded and went back inside to get dressed. Before the door closed, I was able to hear Beth say something to the other girls about "morning wood" and I blushed. Somehow I managed to piss, then shower and shave. I found the girls in the hotel breakfast area. Marge had already joined them.
"How did you know that Mr. Jenkins was going to kill that criminal last night"? was the question posed to Marge, by Linda.
I took a seat next to Brandi as Marge began her explanation.
"I've been in the military for twenty years, girls. I know the defensive moves as well as the offensive ones. I've been trained in them. Jack's training had simply kicked in. His next move would have been to push the guy's knife upward to his heart. He would have been dead before he hit the pavement. As it is, I don't think he had a very good night," offered Marge wryly.
The girls started on me with their questions. I pretty much told them that in today's military, soldiers are well trained in hand to hand combat, as well as with weapons. The training was the same for everyone. I did not tell them about the extra hours I had spent with Sgt. Matt Downs, learning everything he could teach me. He was happy to do it and I had the time.
"I've seen guys a lot younger than you leave the Army, Mr. Jenkins, and they weren't ripped the way you are. How did you do that?" asked Eve.
"That was just a lot of hard work. I wasn't happy with my weight and physique when I went in and was determined to improve. I found a few other guys with the same mindset and we worked out together for a few hours several times a week," I revealed, thinking how I had to do something with my spare time.
"It must be pretty unusual for a guy your age, and a dentist at that, to join the army, isn't it?" questioned Beth.
"Well, it used to be, Beth. I had spent four years in the military as soon as I graduated from high school. My parents had a farm and three younger kids. My mom suggested that I join up, and then take advantage of the G.I. Bill to get a college education. That was exactly what I did. I was a dentist before I was thirty.
"Along the way I married Val and we had Brandi and Zack before I was out of school. It seems that the military needs certain skills and professions. I was offered a nice bonus and the rank of captain for another two years of service, this time as a dentist."
The girls were far more interested in the previous night's attack than my military service and spent the remainder of breakfast telling their personal observations and fears from the encounter.
"Why were you so nasty to that guy, Mr. Jenkins?" asked Linda. "They said they wanted our money. They might have left us alone if we gave them our wallets, but you seemed to egg him on."
"I was charged with taking care of your girls. I knew those two guys were armed and dangerous. I didn't have the luxury of hoping they would be content with robbing us. I felt the best course of action was to take out the first guy while the other one was still several feet away. I was dead certain he would not harm any of you ladies if he had his blade shoved through his heart," I reasoned. "That would leave just one robber and I doubt he would have liked the odds."
"It sounds like you were quite confident of the outcome, Dad," observed Brandi. The Army changed you. The man that left here two years ago would never have been so assured and capable, although I bet you still would've done everything you could to protect me and my friends. You've always been protective that way."
It was turning into a hot June day so everyone decided to spend some time by the pool. The hotel, which was more like a nice motel, was shaped like a U with the pool in the center. Every guest on all three floors had a view of the pool and very little else. When Brandi and her friends made their poolside appearance, every male guest had to be quite pleased with their perspective. The girls all wore small bikinis as they lounged around the pool, soaking in the sun. Although she wore a much more modest one piece suit, Marge had no reason to feel unattractive. She was nicely tanned with strong legs and an ample bosom.
I was seated next to Marge, sipping a beer and enjoying the view the girls afforded when a shadow fell over my face. I looked up and into the eyes of my wife, whom I had not seen for just over two years. I quickly got to my feet.
Val appeared totally bewildered. She kept running her eyes over my face and torso, lingering on the scar on my chest. Then she would look at Marge and then back at me. She must have done that for a full minute before I finally broke the silence.
"Val! It's good to see you," I began.
"What happened to your chest? And who is this woman?" demanded Val when she finally found her voice.
"Mom! I forgot to tell you about Marge! She's a friend of Dad's. He's going to be the best man at her wedding in a month. She's just a friend from the military. Her fiancé will be meeting her tomorrow after the wedding, to which she's invited," blurted Brandi as fast as she could get the words out, in an obvious attempt to defuse any possible scenes.
Val allowed Brandi's explanation to sink in. She nodded slightly as she apparently accepted the explanation.
"I apologize,....Marge, is it? I haven't seen my husband in over two years and I find him sitting by the pool with a very attractive woman. I jumped to what Brandi assures me is the incorrect conclusion. It seems like she would have mentioned you when I spoke with her on the phone a little while ago. That would have better prepared me. Again, I apologize," finished Val.
"No problem. If Jack were my husband, I'd have probably been at your throat. Men like him aren't easy to find and often, are even harder to keep," opined Marge.
"I may have to rethink my apology, Marge. Just how well do you know my husband?" asked Val bluntly.
"Not as well as I wanted, Mrs. Jenkins. I already told your daughter that I tried my damndest to interest Jack, but he'd have none of it. Then I met Ray, my fiancé, and have now accepted that Jack and I will always be friends, but never anything more," confessed Marge.
"As you probably noticed, Marge, I can be blunt. It seems you are the same. Please call me Val. I think we might become friends, too," smiled Val as she extended her hand to Marge.
What the hell had just happened? Val had always been quick to judge the character of people and was usually right, but this acceptance of Marge, even after Marge admitted she had tried to practically seduce me, was way out of the normal. Had Val also changed in the past two years? I watched the two women shake hands like old friends that had just reconnected.
Then we heard a loud voice from across the pool shout, "Marge! Get your cute little ass over here and hug your man!"
I looked toward the source of the booming voice and saw Ray Malloy grinning from ear to ear as he trotted to meet Marge. When they reached each other, he scooped her up and kissed her. Then he stepped into the pool fully clothed! When they surfaced, they were both laughing and hugging. I realized that Ray was the same fun loving guy, whether he was in the service or a civilian. He was always up for a laugh and a good time.
Ray and Marge climbed out of the pool and made their way over to our group. Marge introduced Brandi, and Ray almost crushed her with a big hug.
"So you're Jack's little girl? No wonder he was always writing letters and sending emails to you. He showed us a picture of you, but you were about fifteen in it. I don't think he wanted the guys to see what a babe his daughter was. There'd have been comments and Jack would've had to crack some heads," chuckled Ray.
He had great words of praise for each of Brandi's friends as Marge went through their names. It seemed strange seeing Ray in civilian surroundings since I had met him while we were both serving in the Army. Now we were both civilians and he had shown up a day early to be with Marge.
When Marge introduced Ray to Val, he gave her an ever bigger hug than he gave Brandi. I wondered how much Marge had cautioned Ray and if he would remember it if she had. That question was quickly answered.
"So you're the woman that made Jack the man he is today! Jack was determined to make it home to you, Val. I don't know how many of those damn Taliban he waded through so he could be with you again. That IED had us a little worried, but those scars add character in a man, don't you think?" asked Ray as he slowly became aware of the hush that settled over the group. "Aw shit! I let the cat out of the bag already!"
"Taliban? Did you say Taliban? They don't have Taliban in Germany," stated Brandi as she turned toward me. "You lied to me! You said you spent your tour in Germany, but you were in Afghanistan!"
"I didn't want everyone to worry about me, so I had a friend forward my emails and letters so you'd think I was safe in Germany. It worked out okay," I reasoned. "I'm back in one piece and no one had to lose sleep over me."
"Dad!" cried Brandi. "You could have died. Look at your scars. They were the result of one of those roadside bombs, weren't they? You were in the war and we never even knew it!"