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The world's four largest financial centres share a common language, a common law tradition and a common commitment to liberal economics.
Whatever happens today, that won't change. London, along with New York, Hong Kong and Singapore, will continue to be a leading global financial centre.
Of course, there are challenges to Britain's future prosperity however we vote. There are global economic forces we need to deal with – from a slowing China to worries in recent American trends. I've described these challenges as bumps in the road ahead. But if we leave the European Union we're in a stronger position to deal with any challenges. We'll be in the driving seat when it comes to meeting those challenges.
If we vote to Remain then we're held hostage in the back while others take us in a direction that may suit them but which won't be designed with our interests in mind.
We know the EU's institutions and leadership are hostile to liberal economics. They favour established insiders against entrepreneurial newcomers, rent-seeking corporatists over dynamic innovators, lobbyists and back-scratchers over inventors and job-creators. The EU works very well for those vested interests with the money to spend on lobbying for new regulation which creates barriers to entry but it is hopeless at encouraging the enterprises of the future. There is no EU equivalent of Facebook or Netflix, Uber or Amazon.
And when it comes to financial services, the EU strangles innovation without actually protecting customers, with policies such as the Financial Transaction Tax. And that's not all. In the Five Presidents' Report the path is laid out for the EU to harmonise property law, solvency law and contract law, eroding some of the unique advantages that make the City such a world-beater.
Only 12 per cent of our pensions and insurance exports go to Europe, but we will have to accept every dot and comma of Brussels rules for that world-beating industry.
If we vote to Leave, we can design the regulations that make the most of London's advantages.
And we can safeguard our seat on key global bodies that now set half the rules governing financial services like the International Monetary Fund and the Financial Stability Board.
The scare stories of the EU trying to cut London off are not plausible. It would be an act of self-harm to restrict their companies' access to the place where four fifths of European capital market business is done.
As for the warning that jobs will disappear to Frankfurt if we do not toe the Brussels line – we heard the same over the ERM and the euro, when as we all know escaping the clutches of the single currency freed London to flourish.
If Britain votes to leave the EU and take back control today, London can soar even higher and take its place where it belongs – leading the world.
Today, our country will make a momentous decision: whether to remain in the European Union, or quit.
It's not like a general election; we can't change our mind in five years' time. This decision is final, and will profoundly affect our country for many years to come.
For me, the question is: where is Britain stronger, safer and better off? And the answer is clear: within a reformed EU.
We're stronger because we have a seat at our continent's top table – we're able to get things done in the world, with the clout of 27 other countries behind us. We're safer because we can work with our allies – those who share our values of democracy, freedom and tolerance – to tackle the threats we face. But above all, we're better off. That's thanks to our access to the Single Market – 500m people with whom we can trade without tariffs or barriers.
That isn't just vital to industries like automotives and pharmaceuticals, food and farming. It's crucial to services – like tech, architecture, advertising, IT – which make up 80 per cent of our economy. The biggest exporter within that is, of course, the financial services sector, which employs over a million people – 285,000 of which are linked to EU exports.
Those who want to leave can't say what life would look like on the outside. What new barriers would businesses face? How long would a new relationship with Europe take to negotiate?
What Leave campaigners do admit is that we would be out of the Single Market. And whatever deal we ended up with, it would never be as good as the deal we already have.
It's a leap in the dark – and we shouldn't risk it. If we were outside the Single Market, a lot of financial services jobs would have to move to another country to remain inside the EU and benefit from the arrangements that let you trade across all 27 countries. The head of the Stock Exchange has talked of losing 100,000 jobs in the City alone.
Nine out of 10 economists say that leaving would damage Britain. The IMF and the Bank of England predict a recession in the short term. Then there's the uncertainty in the medium term, as we try to thrash out a new deal with Europe. Longer term, we'd be poorer, with less investment, less trade and less growth. In fact, we've already had a taste of that, with market volatility over recent days.
On polling day, I say: if you're in any doubt, look around. From the Square Mile to Silicon Roundabout, London is an outward-looking, dynamic capital city, that takes full advantage of EU membership.
Our businesses' success, families' security and young people's opportunities all rest on this question.
So don't roll the dice. Choose the certainty of strength, safety and prosperity – and vote to remain.


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By Rima Suqi | October 24, 2017 | Lifestyle
A surge of sojourners are expected in Los Cabos this season, as the Mexican playground welcomes an onslaught of new luxury hotels and residences catering to those with high-end tastes and an appetite for sunshine and siestas.
The avant-garde Mar Adentro at night.
Los Cabos is booming. Five new hotels—including a Park Hyatt, Nobu and a Solaz—are set to open this year in the posh Mexican resort area at the southernmost tip of the Baja peninsula, a 775-mile-long sliver of land that separates the Pacific Ocean from the Gulf of California. And more are coming—the next few years will bring a 1 Hotel, a The Ritz Carlton Reserve, a Montage, a Four Seasons and at The St. Regis.
What's the appeal? "If you're on the West Coast or in the mountain regions, you can decide on Thursday, 'Hey, let's fly down [to Mexico] on Friday,'" explains Neil Johnson, director of residential real estate for Ohana Real Estate Investors, the company behind the already-open Maravilla Los Cabos (maravillaloscabos.com), as well as the Montage Residences Los Cabos (montageresidencesloscabos.com) and hotel, scheduled to debut early next year. "It's a short flight, and you're in Mexico where the weather is essentially guaranteed and the service is phenomenal."
About 500 weekly flights arrive into Los Cabos and the airport is currently undergoing a $48 million expansion, which is slated for completion in two years and will include five new gates, a total refurbishment of the domestic terminal and a brand-new VIP lounge. It's clearly a necessity, as the area—more than ever before—is poised to become one of the top luxury playgrounds in the Americas.
Dramatic dining at Chileno Bay Resorts & Residences.
Many existing resorts have been renovated or upgraded in the past three years, thanks to Hurricane Odile, which slammed into the peninsula in September 2014. Las Ventanas al Paraiso (room rates from $990 per night, rosewoodhotels.com), a perennial favorite among the bohochic set, was one of them. In addition to storm-related renovation, the resort recently unveiled the Ty Warner Mansion, a Robert Couturier-designed 28,000-square-foot art-filled villa perched on the most enviable spot on the property. For $35,000 per night, guests at the two-bedroom villa can luxuriate in over-the-top amenities, including the beachfront infinity pool with a sunken, in-pool living room and swim-up bar; a rooftop terrace with glass-bottom lap pool, whirlpool spa and putting green; as well as the expected private chef, driver on-call and butler. And let's not forget the customizable fireworks display that can be arranged at a moment's notice and controlled by the guest, via remote.
While Las Ventanas is a stalwart, the aforementioned statistics site room for competition. Grand Velas Los Cabos (loscabos.grandvelas.com) is one of the newer entries in the market and is removing the stigma around the words "all-inclusive," with rates from $548 per person, per night. Every room has a private terrace with a view of the ocean, as well as incredibly thoughtful room amenities. There's a staff ratio of 3:1; the resort has five fine-dining restaurants from which guests can choose (including Cocina de Autor, helmed by the two Michelin-starred chef Sidney Schutte), with 50 included wines and another 200 available at additional cost. The breakfast buet is beyond. Have a dietary restriction? It's been thought of and addressed before you even ask. Grand Velas is also one of the few resorts that has truly mastered the delicate balancing act of serving guests traveling with kids as well as those without— with an extremely separate kids' pool and splash pad, in addition to kids' and teen clubs that stay open until about 11 and midnight, respectively, so parents can have a proper date night (nanny services are also available). And let's not forget the spa: ere are 35,000 square feet of it, spread across two levels, with the now-expected-from-the-brand Water Journey, a gigantic pool with multiple stations offering different sensory experiences.
The dramatic lobby at Grand Velas Los Cabos.
Mar Adentro (room rates price upon request, maradentrocabos.com) offers a different sensory experience, namely one for the color and clutter averse. It is a minimalist's paradise, owned and designed by a Miguel Angel Aragonés, an architect who clearly spared no expense in creating the rooms, which were built in a European factory and assembled on-site. Each room, whether in the hotel or the adjacent residences, has at least a partial view of the sea (Mar Adentro translates to "the sea inside"), and almost everything in the room is white, with lights, shades, sound system and the like, all controlled via tablet.
The pièce de résistance here, from the point of view of someone who didn't experience the property beyond a perfunctory tour (it was still being nalized), is the nestlike structures that demand to be Instagrammed. One houses a restaurant, and the other is a structure to pass through to reach the beach, complete with cleverly disguised showers for rinsing off afterward. The spa is a different experience. Guests enter into a dark cavelike space where light streams through very selective spots, perhaps channeling James Turrell.
Stunning views from the Ty Warner Mansion at Las Ventanas al Paraiso.
Chileno Bay Resorts & Residences (room rates from $675 per night, chilenobay.aubergeresorts.com) channels a relaxed yet playful lifestyle, to be expected from a property managed by Auberge Resorts Collection (Esperanza, another hotel here, is also in its portfolio). A 450-foot-long, threetiered pool is strategically positioned in the center of the 60-room hotel property and cascades down to the beach. Oddly, all rooms here are singles with king beds, meaning families will probably opt to rent one of the 32 three- and four-bedroom beachfront "villas" from the surrounding Chileno Bay Residences. All activity seems to center around the pool, where Coola sunscreen is "on tap" and one might be tempted by the Tacos and Tequila bar. That said, the resort is enviably positioned on one of the only swimmable beaches here and takes full advantage by offering a plethora of activities, including the expected paddleboarding and the more surprising water cycles, which, prior to this, I had only seen at Lake Austin Spa in Texas. The spa here is a little smaller than Lake Austin, but very welldesigned, with treatment rooms including a Himalayan salt sauna and a relaxation garden.
There's only one signature restaurant here, but when it's as good as COMAL, who cares? Executive chef Yvan Mucharraz earned his chops at The French Laundry and also L'Atelier de Joël Robuchon in Paris. I sat at the bar and chatted with him and head mixologist Osvaldo Vasquez about everything from nontraditional Mexican spirits like Sotol and Pox to why I should order the chef's special roasted chicken. Apparently it takes three days to prepare this fabulous fowl, but it only took me 10 minutes to inhale, with one of Vasquez's cocktail recommendations, of course.
Oceanfront galleria lawn seating at Chileno Bay Resorts & Residences.
After experiencing all the new resorts in Los Cabos, one could be forgiven for having dreams of permanent ownership on this lovely peninsula. Fortunately, there are a mind-boggling array of real estate options. One of the most highly anticipated developments, set to debut next year, is the Montage Residences Los Cabos (prices upon request, montageresidencesloscabos.com) on Santa Maria Bay. Choose from more than 50 two- and three-bedroom open-plan options, designed for optimal indoor-outdoor living, with ample terrace space, fire pits, plunge pools (in ground-floor residences) and practical details like en-suite bathrooms in every bedroom. Added bonus: Residents have access to amenities at the Montage Los Cabos five-star resort, also set to open next year, as well as private residential amenities, plus the opportunity to join the Twin Dolphin Golf Club and play the Fred Couples Signature Golf Course, which features ocean views from every hole. It's perfect for those who want to extend their stay... indefinitely.

subset: commoncrawl


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When Things go bad, who is to blame? Because, when something bad happens we want accountability and we want to know how to prevent it the next time.
When Rome fell, one of the more popular answers to the blame question was that the gods were angry. Many blamed Roman citizens for turning their backs on the gods and embracing the Christian God as the one and only God. They reasoned that the gods were angry because of this and they caused the calamity to come down on Rome. In other words, God could not protect them.
So, Augustine takes a look at the gods and asks some questions about these objects of worship. Were they worth worshipping? Augustine says they were just as immoral as the Roman people. They never brought an ethical code to Rome. In fact, Augustine says, their influence was a corrupting influence.
As more and more plays were produced about the gods, their immoral influence spread. As more and more people "worshipped" them through acts of immorality, the empire fell further and further into decay.
In Book III, he turns his attention to the fact that history showed the gods had never saved Rome, even when they were worshipped. He delivers an extensive history lesson about the gods failing to protect Troy and Rome.
And here is the thought that is worth considering. Far too often, we blame everyone and everything else for the misfortunes that fall on the world in general and our world in particular. There are still Atheists who are all too willing to blame God when disaster strikes. There are Christians who are all too willing to blame God.
Augustine is shaking us and saying, 'Maybe the answer is closer then you want to admit. Maybe the blame is right at your own doorstep.'
Bro Wes the last few years have been very difficult ones for me and my family. I have since 2009 lost my mom and grandmother within 3 days of each other, the next year my house burned to the ground, and a few weeks later I had major surgery, last year, I lost my dad, and this May I ended up having emergency open heart surgery. Family and friends look at me a some have even asked what I have done to make God so angry at me, and how can I continue to have faith in HIM when so He has allowed so many horrible things to occur in my life. Right before I went into surgery about 4 weeks ago explained to my sons and family that I loved my LORD and I do not see anything that has occurred to me as punishment or the LORD being angry at me. I see bad health choices, financial choices. On the other hand I know that HE has been with me through all my difficult times. HE has interceded for me and whispered in my ear and led me to seek help when I would not have other wise, and saved my life. Shortly after my open heart surgery I woke up before I was suppose to. So much physical pain, and chaos, fear, and I closed my eyes an I asked my GOD to please hold me, hold my hand until the pain became tolerable and the chaos was over, and HE did. It was a glorious time, HE was glorious, my time with HIM was glorious, I wish that I coud be there with HIM again, I wish that I could explain it but I can't. It is so easy for us to blame HIM for our mistakes, our bad choices and to forget how much HE has sacrificed for US and how much HE loves us. We are like spoiled selfish children who are easy to get along with as long as things are going our way. Indeed the blame is usually at our own doorstep….
I'm just joining in on the Battle series books. I totally agree with Augustine & Monica; our choices have a direct impact on our lives. We have the option to make wise choices under God's guidance & direction, or we can step out in self- determination & "knowing it all", then deal with the consequences that follow.
We think He should bail us out of the fallout and / or give us what we think is best for us, what we want. We have the privilege of prayer, obey Him & leave the results to Him, or we can play the blame game when we mess up, which is old as creation.
He is sovereign; He never has nor ever will operate under our expectations & guidelines. WE need to own many of our wrong choices, and thank Him for His grace, love,& mercy.


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In al elegant and fine location with modern furnishing, the Restaurant Marcelin contemplates to reserve a special welcome to its guests in order to bring out at best the dishes proposed by the chef Andrea Ferrucci.
The main hall, furnished with quality materials, is warm and cozy, with ample spaces to ensure privacy and quietness to guests. The arched full-lengt windows and the stately ceiling made with wood remind to the old workshop of the craftman from wich the Restaurant takes is name.
In addition to the main hall, guests can enjoy a the "saletta" room.
This little room is furnished with a chimneypot and small details that makes it perfect for dinner by candellight.
On its golden wall it is marked by an elegant writing by Carlo Cocito, which was a '900 writer with Roero's origins.
The terrace overlooking the main Montà square is perfect for summer outside lunch and dinner.
The welcoming Vittorio Veneto Room, furnished with comfortable sofas, is perfect for aperitifs, coffee break and private perties. It can be equipped with the instrumentation necessary for businnes meeting.


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Daily Archives: November 19, 2012
Green Lantern Kia Soul!
The streets will once again be safe with this Green lantern inspired Kia Soul. With a custom green and black paint job, wide body and even green mirror chrome tint on the windows, this lantern of Justice is an impressive sight. Built by Super Street it has been lowered to improve stability and handeling as well as widening the wheel wells with one-off 18 x 10.5-inch deep-dish wheels.
The Kia Soul comes standard with four doors , but the this Soul's back doors have been welded shut to streamline its appearance. The head lights have been blacked out and have projector beams that glow green. The front fog lights display Lantern Corps logos and greed leds complete this awesome and heroic package. I don't know about you, but I'd rock this for sure!
UFC Girls in Maxim Magazine!
For those of you who follow The UFC you will probably recognize the beauty on the new issue of Maxim Magazine. Arianny Celeste has been an octagon ring girl since 2006 and has become some what of an unofficial mascot of the company. Though she never fights she is just as popular if not more than some of the guys that jump into the cage. Her face (among other things) have become synonymous with Mixed Martial Arts as she is seen at every UFC pay per view.
Here are some of here quotes from her Maxim Magazine interview. For the whole story and more pictures pick up the magazine or go to Maxim's Website.
On how the UFC has changed her life:
"It's blown up! First I thought MMA was kinda of scary, but seeing what the fighters go through, I have total respect for what they do."
On her favorite Octagon Girl perk:
"Traveling. I loved Brazil and Sydney. If I'm by the water, in a bikini, I'm happy."
On if she's been naughty or nice this year:
"A mixture of both, but more on the naughty side. I like to keep things interesting."
Artist of The Week Day 1
This week we are going to start off a new feature. It will be our "Artist of The Week." Each week we will be showcasing a new artist and several pieces of their art every day for a week.
What does it take to be an artist of the week you say?
Well I'm glad you asked. Basically all it takes is for you to have at least 5 pieces of art and digital images of said art (Photo scan, picture from digital or cell phone camera, or anything that is in jpeg format.) Write a short 1 or 2 sentence paragraph about each thing and have a place for us to refer fans back to you (facebook or email address). Please leave us a message or comment and let us know if you would be interested in becoming an Artist of The Week.
Our first featured artist is none other than yours truly! If you would like some picture edits, graphics, or logos made please feel free to message me on this page. Thanks for stopping by.
This was a picture edit I did using a friend's 3d model of spider man and an actual photograph of someone wearing a mask. All was color corrected and the background had some editing done to bring Spidey more into focus. I edited the color, head, eyes, web, and background, shadows, and text to make it look like all one image.


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Cheyenne Mountain 10, Falcon 9, 10 innings
At Cheyenne Mountain: Senior Dakota Henn drove in the winning run with a one-out single over the Falcon shortstop's outstretched glove to lift the Pikes Peak 4A No. 1 Indians in the bottom of the 10th inning and end the 4A/5A Pikes Peak Athletic Conference contest.
The win kept the 9-0 Indians unbeaten at 5-0 in league play. Sophomore Aaron Berkhoff drove in three runs and hit a home run.
No. 2 Falcon (5-3, 3-2) was led by senior Brevin Owen, who batted 3 for 6 with a homer. Senior Quentin Solberg added three RBIs while senior Nate Bruntz hit a solo homer.
Coronado 16, Liberty 11
At Liberty: 5A No. 2 Coronado's Alex Bumpus collected four RBIs, including a three-run homer during a 10-run fourth inning as the Cougars (5-4, 1-2 CS Metro) snapped a four-game losing streak.
"It's good to see some smiles on the kids' faces," first-year coach Trevor Stewart said. "Alex has been a good hitter for us all year."
Manning compiled four RBIs and Ben Lake three RBIs for Liberty (2-5, 2-1).
Lewis-Palmer 11, Discovery Canyon 10
At Discovery Canyon: The Thunder scored three in the bottom of the seventh, but the hosts' rally fell short. Senior Billy Cook drove in five runs for the 4A No. 3 Rangers (7-3, 4-1 4A/5A Pikes Peak), who never trailed.
Manitou Springs 9, Rye 6
At Rye: Mustangs senior Sean Whalen drove in five runs to lead 3A No. 1 Manitou Springs (7-1, 3-0 3A Tri-Peaks).
Air Academy 10, Vista Ridge 4
At Vista Ridge: Senior Josh Dudden was 4 for 4 and senior Nick Weber drove in two runs to lead the Kadets (7-3, 2-2 4A/5A Pikes Peak).
Pine Creek 22, Rampart 2, 5 innings
At Rampart: Eagles senior Toby Scoles batted 5 for 5 with five RBIs and three runs scored while junior Justin Olson was 4 for 4 with five RBIs including two home runs for 5A No. 1 Pine Creek (6-4, 5-0 5A CS Metro).
Widefield 11, TCA 1, 6 innings
At Widefield: Gladiators senior Ronan Witte batted 3 for 4 with three runs and three RBIs to lead Widefield (3-9, 1-1 4A CS Metro) over The Classical Academy (3-6, 1-1).
Cotopaxi 21, Cripple Creek-Victor 1, 5 innings
At Cripple Creek: The 6-2 Pirates led 14-0 after two innings to cruise to the nonconference road win over the 0-4 Pioneers, who have been outscored by a 73-16 margin.
Doherty 12, Palmer 8
At Spurgeon Field: Spartans sophomore Lucas Colvin hit a double and triple to drive in three runs for Doherty (4-7, 2-03 5A CS Metro) while senior Zach Bosler also added three RBIs.
Woodland Park 17, Mitchell 0, four innings
At Mitchell: The Panthers scored 13 runs in the fourth inning to end it. Senior Mac McClintock drove in four runs for Woodland Park (6-5, 2-0 4A CS Metro).
Mesa Ridge 18, Sierra 1, four innings
At Sierra: Senior Dalton Bishop hit a double and home run en route to six RBIs for Mesa Ridge (3-8, 2-0 4A CS Metro). Grizzlies senior Marley Machin added four RBIs.
Stallions senior Adrian Montes drove in the only run for Sierra (2-7, 0-2).
Canon City 30, Harrison 0, two innings
At Harrison: The visiting Tigers (6-2, 1-0) scored 21 runs in the second inning to end the game against Harrison (0-11, 0-2 4A CS Metro).
Air Academy 3, Sand Creek 2 OT
At Vista Ridge: The Kadets scored three minutes into overtime to win it for the visitors (4-3, 1-0 4A/5A Pikes Peak). The Air Academy goals were scored by freshman Kylee Blacksten and sophomores Baylee Barnes and Brooklyn Thomas. The Scorpions were paced by two assists from Jaden Davis and goals by Zoey Shank and Miranda Schwartz.
No. 3 Liberty 8, Coronado 0
At Garry Berry: Pikes Peak 5A Lancers freshman Cortney Cowles recorded three goals and an assist for Liberty (3-4, 1-0 CS Metro), including the eventual game-winner eight minutes in. Freshman Amber Boains and senior Breana Flores each scored twice and senior Marlee Ruge once. Sophomore goalkeeper Julie Callan made nine saves for the Cougars (1-7, 0-1).
Manitou Springs 8, The Vanguard School 0
At Manitou Springs: Junior Brooklyn Mack scored three goals while senior Jen Cole made three assists to spark the 3A No. 1 Mustangs (7-1, 3-0 Region 2).
Cheyenne Mountain 10, Vista Ridge 0
At Vista Ridge: Indians sophomore Lisa Long scored four goals and added an assist while freshman Caroline McCleary added a goal and three assists.
Senior Jamie Burke and sophomore Marissa Dowlin recorded a goal and two assists each while senior Amanda Beach scored twice for CMHS (4-3, 1-0 4A/5A Pikes Peak).
TCA 10, Elizabeth 1
At Elizabeth: The unbeaten 4A No. 1 Titans (6-0, 2-0 4A CS Metro) pulled away with seven second-half goals.
Woodland Park 4, Widefield 1
At Meadow Wood Sports Complex: The 3-5 Panthers improved to 2-0 in the 4A CS Metro League play with a home win over the Gladiators (2-7, 1-1), thanks to two goals and an assist by junior Samantha Lecky. No Widefield stats were available.
Fountain Valley 6, James Irwin 0
At James Irwin: Fountain Valley senior McKenna Monk scored three goals and added an assist to pace the 2A Danes (3-1), who also got two goals and an assist from senior Isabella Montoya. Junior goalkeeper Ava Rahm and sophomore Celeste Carter combined for the one-save nonconference shutout over the 2-4-1 Jaguars.
Palmer Ridge 4, Falcon 0
At Don Breese Stadium: Emily Nguyen scored twice to lead the Bears (4-4, 1-0 4A/5A Pikes Peak), who also got a goal and assists from Sarah Miller.
St. Mary's 10, Atlas Prep 0
At Grace Center: Junior Faith Heery recorded three goals while freshman Isabella Thomas scored twice for St. Mary's (5-2, 2-0 3A Region 1). Sophomore Ashley brown made eight saves for the Gryphons (1-4, 1-1) in a game called at halftime.
Rampart 10, Palmer 0
At Garry Berry: The Pikes Peak 5A No. 2 Rams (6-2, 1-0 5A CS Metro) led 4-0 at halftime in a conference win over the Terrors (2-5-1, 0-1).
Pine Creek 10, Fountain-Fort Carson 0
At D20 Stadium: Senior forward Madeline Alhamra recorded three goals and an assist for the 5A No. 1 Eagles (6-0, 1-0 5A CS Metro).
Pine Creek 92, Rampart 88
At Pine Creek: Eagles junior Nick Sherman won the 50-yard freestyle and 100 butterfly and swam on the winning 400 freestyle relay to lead Pine Creek.
Rampart was paced by junior Jack Evanitz, who anchored the winning 200 freestyle and 200 medley relays along with a win in the 100 freestyle.
Fountain-Fort Carson 95, Palmer 90
At Fountain-Fort Carson: Two individual wins by Brenan Bloyd of Fountain-Fort Carson in the 50 and 100 freestyles (23.21 seconds; 50.94, respectively) paced a balanced Trojans team.
The Terrors' Billy Wallisch recorded wins in 200 freestyle and 100 backstroke and swam the first leg of the victorious 200 medley and freestyle relays.
Charles Sturgeon won the 100 breaststroke and 200 individual medley for Palmer.
Lewis-Palmer 121, Air Academy 64
At Woodmoor Country Club: Lewis-Palmer's Nataniel Sawer was part of winning 200 medley, 200 and 400 freestyle relays and swam to first in the 200 freestyle to help the Rangers almost double up the Kadets. Joe Day also swam in those relays and recorded a first in the 100 butterfly.
Air Academy was led by sophomore Griffin Ayotte with individual wins in the 50 and 500 freestyles.
Discovery Canyon 102, Liberty 84
At Discovery Canyon: Braden Whitmarsh won the 50 freestyle and 100 backstroke to lead the hosts. Brendan Byrnes led a 1-2-3 DCC finish in 1-meter diving with 272.35 points.
Liberty had individual wins from: Joey Black (100 butterfly); Troy Legg (100 breast); Nathan Sistare (100 free); and Joshua Lenzemier (200 free).
Coronado 136, Doherty 47
At Coronado: Nicola Zenarolla won the 100 freestyle and 200 individual medley along with swimming legs on the winning 200 freestyle and medley relays to lead Coronado. Marley Kaiser won the 50 and 500 freestyles and swam on the 200 medley and 400 freestyle relays.
Diver Benji Troutman recorded the only win for Doherty.
Cheyenne Mountain 7, Discovery Canyon 0
At Cheyenne Mountain: Indians No. 2 singles player Patton Lossner downed Sydney Smith 6-3, 7-5 in the closest match in the home dual sweep.
Doherty 6, Liberty 1
At Doherty: Liberty No. 1 singles player Morgan Childs rallied to down Spartans foe Breanna Hayden 3-6, 7-5, 6-3 to spoil the hosts' bid for a dual meet sweep. Doherty No. 3 singles player Jordan Degani downed Kyle Waguespack 7-6 (7-5), 6-3 in the other close match.
Rampart 6, Fountain-Fort Carson 1
At Rampart: The Rampart No. 3 doubles team of Libby Rea and Taylyn Warth edged Justina Nercado and Gianna Meyers 6-3, 7-6 (7-3) while the Trojans No. 4 duo of Abigail Kinnischtzke and Keeley Richardson won to avoid the sweep by a 6-0, 7-6 (7-4) margin over Brittany Head and Mariah Pacheco-Knapp.
Coronado 5, Palmer 2
At Palmer: Coronado No. 1 singles player Savannah Leifer battled past Palmer senior Grave Meluso 6-4, 3-6, 6-1 in the only match to go three sets.
Lewis-Palmer 7, Sand Creek 0
At Lewis-Palmer: The Rangers dropped only 12 games in 14 sets against the Scorpions.
At Memorial Park: The Colorado Springs Christian School prevailed despite a hard-fought win for Kodiaks No. 1 singles player Kate Griffin, who rallied past the Lions' Tristen VanDeVeer 2-6, 6-3, 7-6 (7-4).


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PAUL Clement covered a host of Reading FC topics ahead of tomorrow's Championship clash at Sheffield Wednesday (3pm ko).
Royals' boss will be searching for his first away victory since replacing Jaap Stam last month.
And he says he is desperate to secure Reading's Championship status for another season as quickly as possible.
Clement's men are 19th in the table and five points above the drop zone with three matches remaining.
Clement also spoke at length about the frantic finish to last weekend's 2-2 draw with Sunderland, the dangers of facing the Owls at Hillsborough and taking advantage of longer preparation time.
In addition, he gave an injury update on Tommy Elphick and the other crocked players, hailed Liam Moore for paying for supporters to travel to Hillsborough and gave his thoughts on the issue of safe standing at grounds.
Finally, he also spoke at length about growing up in Crowthorne, his affinity to Royals and his early plans for next season.
Here, in full, is Clement's press conference from Hogwood Park in full:
Clement on Sheffield Wednesday:
"The games have been coming thick and fast. Now we've had time to reflect a bit and more importantly get some good preparation going into Saturday.
"We have three really important games left and we're taking nothing for granted.
"We're in a good position in terms of the other teams in and around trouble, but we've got to get over the line now and finish off the job."
On the frantic finish against Sunderland:
"It wasn't a comfortable game from my point in view – they never are – it was particularly open.
"But what I did like was they gave everything to try and win the game ta the end. That's a good mentality to take forward into future games.
"If we can instil that philosophy into the players, that never-say-die attituded to keep pushing to win games, we'll pick up a lot of points."
Players were out on their feet at the end:
"It's unusual to see that. It was like a cup game with both teams trying to win it then maybe it's extra time as well. They were exhausted at the end, but it showed how much effort had been put in by both sets of players."
Jon Dadi Bodvarsson looks shattered at the end of Reading's 2-2 draw with Sunderland last weekend.
Sheffield Wednesday having nothing to play for:
"Players have always got something to play for because of the scrutiny that goes on from fans on social media and also from the media. They are always in the spotlight and they have to perform.
"Whether they are not in a relegation battle or pushing for promotion can also be dangerous. When that pressure isn't there players can loosen up and play with a sense of freedom which can improve performance.
We have to expect the best from Sheffield Wednesday."
Injury update:
"We are where we were last weekend. Joseph Mendes has done some part training, but he hasn't trained every day. Tommy Elphick has done some work with the first team and the conditioning staff and Paul McShane continues to work on his conditioning, but he hasn't joined the group yet.
"There's a chance for Tommy. He's missed time and you need to recover from the injury then to get up to the fitness required to play a high-intensity game.
"That's where he is now, he's got to build that up before he's got a chance of being involved.
"Leandro Bacuna is still suspended so we're going to have the same squad of players going into the game.
"We'll put 11 out to start and hopefully finish which hasn't always been the case since I came here. We'll have a bench that gives me the option to make changes if we are trying to win the game."
On-loan defender Tommy Elphick, right.
Liam Moore paying for a supporters' coach to Hillsborough:
"Anything where there's a connection between the players and fans is an excellent thing.
"The numbers were low in the south stand for that first game, but they had doubled for the second game.
"If it keeps doubling in size it won't be too long before that end is full and the noise is going to get really, really loud. It's a fantastic thing."
Thoughts on safe standing:
"The first thing is it has to be safe. If it is, then it can improve the spectator experience and the atmosphere in a stadium then that's a positive.
"It can also be a more affordable way to get people into stadiums which is another positive.
"I think the way it's going it won't be long before we start to see stadiums introduce that again.
"It happens a lot in Germany. During my six months in the Bundasliga I can tell you the atmosphere in the stadiums is absolutely amazing, it was bouncing.
"With safe standing you have the freedom to move a little bit and the atmosphere behind the goals where there is a lot of safe standing in something special."
Settling in at Reading:
"It always takes a couple of weeks to find your surroundings, different routes into work, where the office is and who is who.
"But this is my eight or ninth club and what I have learned over the years is that things become normal quite quickly, whether it's Real Madrid, Derby, Swansea or here.
"The training ground and stadium become your life very quickly and I feel like that now.
"When my dad (Dave) played for QPR we lived in Crowthorne for a few years and I went to primary school in this area.
"My brother (Neil) came to Reading on loan for three months when he was at Chelsea and Tommy Burns was the manager here.
"I'm from the south east and I've always liked the club. I played against them at youth level a lot of times when I was at Chelsea and Fulham.
"Reading has a tradition of bringing young players through which I like and in more recent years when I was at Swansea and Chelsea I always enjoyed coming here.
"The stadium is fantastic, I really like it."
Backing of the fans:
"The welcome I got was very nice and I appreciate the support they are giving the players which is more important because they can help them in difficult moments in the game when they are tires. That extra push from the noise of the stadium can really help them.
"Fans want to see the team playing well and winning and over the last three games they haven't seen us lose yet."
One eye on next season:
"No, but when I say no you always have to think about pre-season and the organisation and that kind of thing.
"But in terms of players, no. We have time to deal with that. The window isn't open yet and it doesn't shut until the end of August, so there is time to address that, we have to priorities."
Have you spoken to the owners about budgets and things?
"No, not yet."
Turning things around at Reading:
"After five games we've gone okay but there are three very important ones to go and things can change very quickly.
"You can have a quick momentum switch if we don't get the right result and other results go against us. We've got to remain very focussed.
"This job is not done. l we have to pick up some more points or we're going to be in a very nervous situation come the last game which we want to avoid.
"But I'd rather be in our position than any of the other teams who have doubts over staying up. But we can't be complacent."
Reading travel to Neil Warnock's promotion-chasing Cardiff City on the final day of the season.
Can you get your first away win after defeats at Aston Villa and Fulham?
"They were hard games, and we made Villa even harder with going down to 10 men with an hour to play.
"From a coach's point of view I thought some of our play against Fulham was really encouraging, though we didn't get anything out of the game.
"But they were two very difficult fixtures. Now we have Sheffield Wednesday and Cardiff away which won't be easy either.
"Sheffield Wednesday on their day are very dangerous as they just showed when they won at Hull (1-0) who have been banging goals in at home.
"They have good options especially up front. They can play with two big men, they have Jordan Rhodes and Fernando Forestieri, they're a threat.
"It's a hard game but we're in good shape and we've prepared well, so it will be a hard game for them as well."


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Picking the perfect grey paint color for your home can be seriously overwhelming. Especially when there are so many considerations like light sun exposure, lighting, flooring, furniture, etc. Several grey's will have a blue base to them and appear on the cooler side, and unless you have the perfect sun exposure, your room will give you the chills. So here are my top 5 favorite Benjamin Moore paint grey's that are the perfect neutral that still feels warm and inviting.
Balboa Mist- One of Benjamin Moore's most picked a paint color that works well for both traditional and modern spaces.
Classic Gray– The name says it all. Another of BM's top picks. It's a modern, neutral grey that feels light and airy.
Gray Owl– Slightly more on the cool side but very fresh and modern. Paired with crisp white trim, Gray Owl is great for bedrooms, bathrooms and kitchens.
Revere Pewter– Revere Pewter is my go-to color for someone who is not fully committed to grey, but wants to modernize their home. It's what we like to call Greige (Grey/Beige) and it's the perfect neutral for ANY space.
Kendall Charcoal-I thought I'd throw in one of my favorite dark greys too. Kendall is rich and luxurious and works great as an accent color. It is also a great exterior paint color!
**Please check Benjamin Moore paint chips for accurate color samples


text: Just recently I have noticed the term 'integrated bodywork' is becoming more and more popular as many practitioners study different systems of bodywork and find that they use an amalgam of these different ways of working on the body and therefore no longer wish to be identified with only one mode of practice. It occurred to me that Polarity Therapy was one of the original forms of integrated bodywork drawing on the disciplines of osteopathy, chiropractic, zone therapy combined with eastern and western energy theories. Yet another example of Dr Stone being ahead of his time. It really is a shame that Polarity Therapy is not more widely practiced as it really does give you just about everything you need in order to become an accomplished practitioner of energy medicine and a skilled and effective bodyworker.


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Top Fuel points leader Leah Pritchett looks to maintain impressive consistency at fifth annual NHRA New England Nationals
EPPING, N.H. – A season that started in extraordinary fashion continues to move along at an impressive pace for Leah Pritchett. The NHRA Top Fuel points leader won the first two races of the year in her 10,000-horsepower Papa John's dragster and has since added a third victory, holding onto the points lead in a star-studded Top Fuel class.
As the 2017 NHRA Mello Yello Drag Racing Series season heads into a stretch of four straight races, starting with this weekend's fifth annual NHRA New England Nationals at New England Dragway, Pritchett knows maintaining that early-season consistency will be key. Thus far, the rising star has zero first-round losses and just one second-round exit, a pace Pritchett would love to keep heading to the midway point of the season.
"It's continuing to show how healthy this car is," Pritchett said. "For us, it's not only the consistency, but how healthy the car is. Our team is together on all aspects. I'm figuring out a few things I can improve at the starting line. We've made some headway. We have some things to test so hopefully we will see some type of significant difference for the next time we get back on the track. Not to say we're not happy with what we have delivered this weekend, but we have to get better."
Antron Brown (Top Fuel), Ron Capps (Funny Car) and Greg Anderson (Pro Stock) were last year's winners of the event that will be televised on FOX Sports 1, including finals coverage starting at 4:30 p.m. (ET) on Sunday, June 4. It is the ninth of 24 events during a 2017 season that has produced a standout start for Pritchett in her first full year racing for Don Schumacher Racing.
After winning in Houston for her third win of the season, Pritchett was in the final foursome at the NHRA Four-Wide Nationals and followed with back-to-back semifinal performances in Atlanta and Topeka, where she qualified second. Leading the likes of back-to-back world champion Brown, who won in Topeka, and eight-time champ Tony Schumacher, who are both DSR teammates, as well as standouts Steve Torrence, a two-time 2017 winner, and Doug Kalitta is still an adjustment, but Pritchett continues to make strides there as well.
"From a points leader standpoint, it's much easier to be the underdog," Prichett said. "It's much easier to race in the capacity of constantly chasing something. I've figured out that I've lately been sometimes operating with a fear of losing instead of the aggressiveness of chasing. I walk away from (Topeka) identifying what I personally need to work on and it's a mindset. And it's something that we will see come Epping."
Thoughts of a world championship are off in the distance at the moment, but Pritchett has positioned herself well with the hot start. The Houston victory made her the 10th driver in Top Fuel history to win three of the first five events. Six of the first nine captured the world championship – the other three ended up in second – but Pritchett and her team, led by crew chief Todd Okuhara, know there is still an immense amount of work to be done, starting this weekend in Epping.
"We are a very long way from winning a championship, but it's very nice to be able look at the standings and think about it," said Pritchett, who has four career wins. "This team shows me how good they are every day whether we're at the track or back at our DSR shop. We can still get better, and as tough as the competition is out here, we have to keep working to do that."
Defending Funny Car winner Capps, who won his first world championship in 2016, is on an incredible roll, having won four straight races heading into Epping.
Anderson won for a second straight year in Pro Stock in 2016 and trails points leader Bo Butner, who has two wins this season. Rookie Tanner Gray also picked up his second win in Topeka.
The event also features thrilling competition in the NHRA Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series, showcasing the future stars of the sport. After Nitro qualifying on Friday, fans can watch the spectacular Hanna Motorsports jet cars. Jet cars are thrust driven propelled by jet engines with exciting pre-run flame shows.
As always, fans will have the opportunity to interact with their favorite drivers as they're granted an exclusive pit pass to the most powerful and sensory-filled motorsports attraction on the planet. This unique opportunity in motorsports gives fans direct access to the teams, allowing them to see firsthand the highly-skilled mechanics service their hot rods between rounds, and get autographs from their favorite NHRA drivers.
Fans also will want to visit NHRA's popular Nitro Alley and Manufacturers Midway, where sponsors and race vendors create a carnival atmosphere, with interactive displays, simulated competitions, merchandise, food and fun for the entire family.
Mello Yello Drag Racing Series qualifying will feature two rounds at 4:30 and 7 p.m. on Friday, June 2 and the final two rounds of qualifying on Saturday, June 3, at 1:30 and 4 p.m. Final eliminations are scheduled for 11 a.m. on Sunday, June 4.
To purchase general-admission or reserved seats, call (800) 884-NHRA (6472) or visit www.NHRA.com/tickets. Kids 12 and under are free in general admission areas with a paid adult. To honor the Salute to First Responders, military and first responders can save 20 percent on general admission tickets at the gate. For more information about the NHRA visit www.NHRA.com.
WHAT: Fifth annual NHRA New England Nationals, the ninth of 24 events in the NHRA Mello Yello Drag Racing Series. Drivers in three categories – Top Fuel, Funny Car and Pro Stock – earn points leading to 2017 NHRA Mello Yello Drag Racing Series world championships. The race also will feature competition in the NHRA Lucas Oil Series.
WHERE: New England Dragway, Epping, N.H., the track is on Route 101 off Exit 8, an hour north of Boston and just 20 minutes from Manchester and the New Hampshire sea coast. From I-95, take Exit 2 in New Hampshire. Travel west on Route 101 to Exit 8, then turn right. From I-93, take Exit 7 in New Hampshire. Travel east on Route 101 to Exit 8, then turn left, and the track is straight ahead. From I-495, take Exit 51-B to Route 125 north. Travel east on Route 101 to Exit 8, then turn left, and the track is straight ahead.
COURSE: Championship drag strip; Track elevation is 90 feet above sea level. Track direction is southwest to northeast
WHEN: Friday through Sunday, June 2-4
FRIDAY, June 2 – LUCAS OIL SERIES qualifying
MELLO YELLO SERIES qualifying at 4:30 and 7 p.m.
SATURDAY, June 3- LUCAS OIL SERIES eliminations
MELLO YELLO SERIES qualifying at 1:30 and 4 p.m.
SUNDAY, June 4 – Pre-race ceremonies, 10 a.m.
MELLO YELLO SERIES eliminations begin at 11 a.m.
FRIDAY, June 2, FS1 will televise one hour of live qualifying at 7:30 p.m. (ET)
SATURDAY, June 3, FS1 will televise one hour of qualifying highlights at 12:30 a.m. (ET)
SUNDAY, June 4, FS1 will televise three hours of finals coverage at 4:30 p.m. (ET)
Antron Brown, Top Fuel; Ron Capps, Funny Car; Greg Anderson, Pro Stock.
MOST VICTORIES: Tony Schumacher, 2, TF; Ron Capps, 2, FC; Greg Anderson, 2, PS.
Top Fuel – 3.701 sec. by Antron Brown, June '16; 329.26 mph by Doug Kalitta, June '16.
Funny Car – 3.865 sec. by Ron Capps, June '16; 330.63 mph Tim Wilkerson, June '16.
Pro Stock – 6.485 sec. by Shane Gray, June '14; 214.72 mph by Greg Anderson, June '15.
Top Fuel – 3.658 sec. by Leah Pritchett, Feb. '17, Phoenix; 333.66 mph by Brittany Force, May '17, Topeka, Kan.
Funny Car – 3.802 and 338.85 mph by Hagan, May '17, Topeka, Kan.
Pro Stock – 6.455 sec. by Jason Line, March '15, Charlotte, N.C.; 215.55 mph by Erica Enders, May '14, Englishtown N.J.
TICKETS: For tickets call (800) 884-NHRA (6472). Tickets also available online at www.NHRA.com/tickets
GLENDORA, Calif. — Point standings (top 10) following the 29th annual Menards NHRA Heartland Nationals presented Minties at Heartland Park Topeka, the eighth of 24 events in the NHRA Mello Yello Drag Racing Series
Top Fuel
1. Leah Pritchett, 721; 2. Steve Torrence, 691; 3. Antron Brown, 680; 4. Tony Schumacher, 673; 5. Doug Kalitta, 539; 6. Clay Millican, 433; 7. Brittany Force, 405; 8. Terry McMillen, 333; 9.Troy Coughlin Jr., 327; 10. Scott Palmer, 276.
Funny Car
1. Ron Capps, 748; 2. Matt Hagan, 629; 3. John Force, 524; 4. Robert Hight, 518; 5. Jack Beckman, 502; 6. Courtney Force, 464; 7. Tommy Johnson Jr., 461; 8. J.R. Todd, 378; 9. Tim Wilkerson, 360; 10. Jonnie Lindberg, 318.
Pro Stock
1. Bo Butner, 670; 2. Greg Anderson, 646; 3. Tanner Gray, 610; 4. Jeg Coughlin, 593; 5. Jason Line, 576; 6. Erica Enders, 423; 7. Chris McGaha, 421; 8. Vincent Nobile, 414; 9. Drew Skillman, 392; 10. Shane Gray, 382.
Story and photos courtesy of the NHRA


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Abstract submission
Abstracts of 200-300 words are to be edited using this template and sent by May 4, 2018, to email@example.com.
The abstracts will be assessed by the scientific committee of the conference. Decisions will be notified to authors by May 15, 2018.
Symposium Proceedings
An ISBN e-book of the abstracts will be published, and made freely available online.


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Getting Grainy with the Fujinon XF50 F2 WR and XT-2: A Review from a Fella in Oxford
I just have to say this outright. You folk here in the northern hemisphere, particularly out here in the U.K. are spoiled for good light, when it's out. Coming originally from Western Australia where the sun gives you about an hour each side of the day of pleasant light, it is such a dream with the sun sitting here around 45 degrees.
'Nuff of the whinge!
What's this new XF50 F2 WR all about?
It's a seemingly obscure focal length that doesn't have an older sibling with a wider aperture to usurp, and what kind of photographer would want it? Well, after shooting 1.25 weddings back in Australia with it and having a good few days on the streets of Oxford with it, I am damned impressed by it just as I still am with it's wider mate the XF35 F2, which is my go-to lens and has been since late 2015. It's a bit of a trip down memory lane, as it would be for many who've stuck a 50mm lens on a crop sensor camera so a 76mm equivalent focal length really isn't that unfamiliar.
For this 'review' I have only included small 3000 pixel JPEGS using Chrome, +1 colour, +1 sharpness, and strong grain. Why did I do this? Because it's just bloody brilliant! I have shot backup JPEGs with strong gain for many months now and I simply lovely the images it helps to produce, particularly when shooting into light - I'll get into that more down the page though. I think it also shows for a lot of folk who like what I shoot that they can achieve this look with no post-editing. If you're really wanting RAW/RAF files leave a comment below and I'll get some going since I now have real internet here in the U.K.
Let's take a look at some bokeh samples.
I'm not one to go hunting for this kinda thing and honestly, I am not sure I have the best eye for what good bokeh is but oh well! As you can see though, at F2 this lens has really lovely focus fall off and beautiful smooth background with nice round balls. With a minimum focusing distance of 39cm you can certainly get nice and close with this lens, further exaggerating background blur in many circumstances. It really does an excellent job at focusing closely too, picking what you intend to shoot quickly and accurately.
How about the AF?
It's snappy! Well freakin' snappy! Just as I LOVE the XF35 F2 for it's efficiency this guy is exactly the same in my experience. It handles itself very well shooting into strong backlight, tracks sensationally in CF mode, acts silently and stealthily, and I simply can't fault it. It's also a joy to handle and weighs next to nothing (200g) which I barely noticed during wedding shoots. Remember though, I am shooting with an XT-2 so older cameras may not be so gracious with regards to performance.
But what about the XF56 F1.2?
It's a tough call. The ol' XF56 1.2 has that stupidly wide, light eating aperture that melts away out of focus areas, but it's also an 'old' Fujifilm lens that can be a bit sluggish and offers no Weather Resistance. In truth, during the second wedding I shot in Australia recently upon owning both lenses, I switched over to the F1.2 and didn't switch back to the XF50 F2 WR. Why? Because with the XT-2 and at times with boost mode engaged, I didn't have any issues with focusing, and I sure appreciated the images it produced at it's widest aperture. On the other side of it though, the XF50 F2 WR is way more comfortable for day to day use and is a snappier, discrete, crazy sharp and silent lens that represents the latest in Fujifilm's tech. I'll get to a comparison blog post some time soon!
Let's finish up with a little chat about the grain function on the XT-2.
I am really hooked on this little add-on for how it helps gradients appear to the human eye and how it reduces the obvious transitions in colour banding in bright scenes. I find it also helps to produce really pleasing flares as well, and overall gives me +50 hipster points in my day to day photography life. You be the judge! I just hope Adobe gets grain happening in Lightroom that looks this good.
Some final thoughts
Fujifilm have produced yet another sensational bit of gear that's of the highest quality and performs exceptionally, further reaffirming my decision many moons ago to get into the X-Series.
I'm not sure that the XF50mm F2 WR will stay in my kit, as it's so close in focal length to my XF56mm F1.2, which still holds the overall crown for preferred lens out of the two. I also much prefer a 50mm equivalent like the XF35mm F2 WR for street usage and day to day shooting, with the XF23mm F2 WR being the next lens I'd like to get and probably stick with.
Truly, you cannot fault this lens and if I were a newbie to Fujifilm I would grab it in a heartbeat with the XF23mm F2 WR to start my kit off, as they're exceptional lenses for the money that have character and handle wonderfully, whilst producing consistently gorgeous images. Try it out for yourself and you'll see what I mean with the XF50mm F2 WR.
Creating an Imperfect Image - Fujifilm X-T2 with a Helios, tilt-adapter, and other ramblings after a night of Aussie metal
Metal heads.
To para-phrase a security guard at the photo barrier on this night "I F$%KIN hate this music! But... These gigs have the best behaved people. They drink tonnes of piss and spend heaps at the merch stands. Honestly, I'd rather get digitally f#$%ed by a giant than listen to this stuff."
Much love to this fella for being brutally honest and giving me a damned good laugh.
This gig served me up a pretty profound experience as a photographer. With no pressure of producing images other than for my own enjoyment and for all these fine bands to use should they want to, I got to experiment with some new goods, including the XF50-140 and an old Helios 44-2 F2 58mm with a tilt only adapter. This was also the first time I got to use my X-T2 properly in a live music environment, which was a bit of an overdue itch to scratch. So what made it a profound experience?
For just about my entire journey so far in photography a big part of it has been chasing that perfect, sharp, optically stellar image. An image that really isn't achievable since invariably I know I'd never be satisfied with the result. It's also quite closely linked to gear acquisition too. Undoubtedly, good gear enables great photos to be taken or discretion to be used when necessary, such as in the case of compact performers like my trusty XF35mm F2, a phenomenal ~50mm equivalent.
When I recently purchased an old Helios off of eBay ($80 for a nicely refurbished one) I didn't expect to get much more than an effect out of it that could be used from time to time for a bit of fun when combined with the tilt adapter too. I certainly didn't expect that on this occasion I would end up using it for more than 50% of my photos and come away with images that were so far from perfect they felt much closer to my perfect image than I could ever have expected.
See, the usual suspects in my Fujinon kit certainly got used and performed outstandingly. The XF16mm gave me those close wides and crowd shots with not a single focus issue, and the flexibility of the rear tilt screen of the X-T2 allowed way more freedom for me to compose with. The XF56mm 1.2 also worked outstandingly and provided me with low ISO shots due to its exceptional widest aperture. My newly acquired XF50-140 was the high performance best I expected it to be and served me particularly well when taking shots further back and elevated above the crowd. Using the image stabilization was a blast too in the face of some heavy moshing, providing some unique looks.
In light of these awesome modern lenses, using an old manual focus lens with a non-parallel focus point (can be adjusted to straight) was an absolute jam and a lesson in taking control. I doubt many purists would be overly enthused towards a lens with no hood that gives wild flaring and soft-edges, but for me, the way these 'imperfections' come together in this combo feel so right. There's just something else about making an image that is flawed. An image where the main perceived subject isn't in focus. An image where it's overcome by floods of light and shadow in inconsistent ways. I guess what it also comes down to is creating a certain mood with imagery, which certainly suits the gloominess of the metal scene. Perhaps it's also the thrill of the chase when focusing manually, knowing that the shot could be 'missed'.
After some stern words from my brother Dan at Matsu Photography recently, I think this experience is the turning point for me in seeing the enjoyment of the journey rather than the unattainable end goal, where harsh self-criticism and comparison against other talents can tend to spoil the experience.
It must also be said that I sincerely appreciate all my brothers and fellow 'creative folk' in these phenomenal bands featured. If not for letting me have this experience but for creating incredible, inspiring music that provides a soundtrack in my life. Cheers to my Ormsbros in Psycopritc, Hollow World and Hadal Maw, and to the other fellas in Orpheus Omega, Blackhelm, and Naberus.
Here's a post I have been looking forward to making since I heard the X-T2 was coming into existence, and boy I was not left disappointed.
In the lead up to the release of the X-T2 there were a few things I was looking forward to seeing improved upon, one being a more competent auto-focus system that followed my instructions a bit better, particularly when shooting my beloved XF56mmF1.2 R. I am well aware that on an ~85mm equivalent lens, AF speed and accuracy at F1.2 is not exactly an easy thing to achieve, and Fujifilm wasn't alone in this department when compared to Canon's 85mm F1.2 L behemoth.
Well, after almost 2 weeks shooting with the X-T2 and my XF56mmF1.2 R on numerous occasions and circumstances I can safely say that Fujifilm have made me a very happy camper. This new pairing is fast, accurate, and surprisingly tracks really well in continuous focus mode. That said, today's post is all about portraiture so you'll just have to wait for another day when I post about the X-T2 and its ability to capture action and fast paced, changing movement.
I had the pleasure of meeting the martial artist, model, actress and generally awesome human, Ann Truong, during some captures at my local Muay Thai gym. We met up in our local neighbourhood one Saturday afternoon recently for some impromptu portraits and I got to put my new camera through its paces, all whilst showing her and another friend some unique parts of the town centre. For this series I used the XF56mmF1.2 R with only a few noted shots on the XF35F2.
You can take a look at full size JPEGs at this link.
Fujifilm have improved their auto-focus system out of sight when comparing the new X-T2 to the X-T1. Yes, I loved my X-T1 (it's moved to a new home now) but at times it was like a disobedient child that you wanted to do one thing and it wanted to do... well, not what you wanted i.e. lock focus on this subject, not that piece of shrub in the background. The immediately noticeable difference is the focus acquisition speed and accuracy when shooting with all of my lenses, particularly the XF56mmF1.2 R @ F1.2. Even when shooting into heavily flared afternoon sunlight behind Ann, the camera and lens combo still hit the mark and didn't go off in the woods hunting! Hallelujah!!!!! In cases where I have shot between near and far subjects, it's quick to find focus and has proven to be a gem at this too during very dim light in my home environment. I will test this more in future though.
So what is there to be mindful of when using this combo?
Fujifilm have a great menu system that can readily be used to access features like face and eye detection. Heck! It can even be setup to choose left or right eye as a priority on the fly. So, if you've got a relatively settled/staged subject this feature is a god send for getting dead set focus on the eyes of your subject. Another thing to be mindful of is that this lens seems to really eat battery power. I am not sure what combo of the lens' motor and camera would cause this but I am certain that the camera would have to work overtime to acquire focus like it does at F1.2. Always pack an extra battery or two, or get the new vertical battery grip.
On a final note, if you're a Canon user and your 85mm 1.2 L is doing your head in with it's heft, awful purple fringing, and slow focus, seriously go and give this combo a test. If you're not this kind of person/user, just go and do it anyway!
1 year on with the Fuji XT-1 and a myriad of other FujiFilm gear.
Honestly, I pondered this post today, started collating some of my favourite photos, and then realised that today is my 1 year anniversary with the FujiFilm XT-1. Spooky?!
Nah. Just math.
Well, I must say, it has been a fantastic 12 months using Fuji's X-series 100%. I have traveled a fair bit of the world with my kit and put it through a heck of a lot of varied circumstances. On the streets, through weddings, in the sweat of live music, the pace of MMA, and through various nations, it's been a fantastic journey developing as a photographer, and as a person, refining my creative path through the medium. Not only that, but my hipster factor has grown exponentially with the XT-1's retro dials, coupled with my hair.
What started with just the XT-1 and XF56 (added to my X100s, which I later parted with for an XT-10) soon grew. At year's end my Fuji kit contains an XT-1 & XT-10, Xf16, XF27, XF35F2, XF56, XF90, and the underrated XC 50-230, along with my Instax printer for sharing the love. With various combinations of this gear I explored regions of my home country Australia like never before, shot weddings in Ireland and Vietnam, and most importantly, met so many incredible new people and took part in many great stories.
This post is my first retrospective and quite significant to me personally. I'm not going to say how long I've been shooting for but it's not that long. Happy for you to have a guess!
More importantly, I just want to send a massive thanks to all you curious folk out there. It's been awesome hearing from so many of you over the 12 months and I hope I can help you more and more and perhaps even connect with you too! Enjoy!
Weddings across the world.
Sweating and thrashing through the pits of live music.
Exploring my home country like I never knew.
And exploring a few new ones too.
Got to meet and shoot a lot of lovely people.
Trained and shot alongside some of the best.
And sometimes just watched life go by.
What a way to finish up 2015.
Winnie and Elvin sure know how to celebrate their marriage, with not 1, but 3 weddings across 3 different countries. We had the honour of shooting their wedding in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, where the always lovely Winnie grew up.
The blending of east and west, and tradition with modern opulence were perfect, with an emphasis on family and respect for Vietnamese culture permeating throughout the day.
Winnie & Elvin, we feel privileged for the experience, and especially enjoyed the numerous local cuisines you lavished upon us while we were in HCMC.
You may have seen my earlier post about my First Day Impressions of the Fujifilm XF90,
which details my Fuji fan-boi experience with the new kid on the block. One month on and a fair few more shooting experiences later, this lens has done nothing but impress and inspire me. At my favoured full-frame equivalent focal length of ~137mm, the XF90 fits me like a glove and allowed me to move completely away from my Canon system, which had always been a go to when I needed the sharp and speedy 135mm F2 L.
This past month with the XF90 saw me checking out temperate rain-forest waterfalls in Victoria's east, shooting in stunning Western Australian sunsets with my dear friend Dan at Matsu Photography, exploring the historical sites of federation era Australia, and shooting for Ormsby Guitars and the Melbourne Guitar Makers Festival. On each and every varied occasion the XF90 never missed a beat and I have been left pondering how FujiFilm will outdo themselves next in their world of supreme, high quality consumer photography lenses.
There's something really frustrating about the XF90 - it leaves many of its brethren feeling somewhat inferior (emphasis on 'somewhat').
What Fuji have managed to achieve with this lens and its new quad-motor system is a lens that is incredibly responsive, accurate, and works extremely well in tough lighting conditions, such as low light and heavy back-lighting. I couldn't believe how well it focused on my mate Dan (below) during sunset, or at night as I often put it through its paces targeting objects near and far. As much as I love the XF56 1.2, after using the XF90 it feels somewhat slow and outdated and simply doesn't perform anyway near as well. Also, the XF90's bokeh trumps it by a long shot. Sorry, I know that F1.2 is still a hell of a feature and I'll continue to use mine, but the bokeh it produces simply isn't as smooth and rich.
Something sports and action photographers are going to love about the XF90 is how well it plays with continuous focusing mode, zone focusing and bursts, even at F2. It's smooth, accurate and damned responsive! Overall, a consistently high focus hit rate on par with what I was used to when using my Canon 7D/6D and the 135mm F2.
Did I mention that the XF90 is sharp?
Take a look at the 3 pictures above. I'm not normally a 'here's a 1:1 crop guy' but in this case I had to provide a quick screen grab at that ratio from my LR module (post grain added). I'll just leave you with those snaps to ponder.
If you're considering this lens be aware of how beneficial it is to have a ridiculously close minimum focusing distance on a lens of this focal length. I have loved utilizing the 60cm min. focusing distance so often and cannot wait to try it on some detailed wedding ring shots soon. If you like getting out and shooting a bit of wildlife like me, it's also particularly useful for some more intimate nature shots or flower snaps that provide a beautiful level of compression at this focal length.
I'll keep my conclusion simple. If you're a Fuji X-series user, buy this lens.
If you're on the fence about coming on board to the Fuji-side, get this lens and an XT-1 or XT-10 and be prepared to be blown away.
Fuji, you're gonna cost me marriage. By all means of financial responsibility I should not have bought this lens on a whim, I simply never do that. That was the immediate impact and impression the new Fujinon XF90 left on me and it only got better as the day wore on.
For some time now I have been bloody excited about Fuji releasing a roughly 135mm F2 equivalent lens. It was the first lens I bought for my Canon system a few years back when I started off and it has been a staple lens in my kit. Even when it was stolen from my house whilst I was home, I still had it replaced. I have always found the XF56 to be a satisfying and impressive lens since getting onto the XT-1 but as a focal length, it never quite fit like the old pair of undies that is the 135mm F2. Thank the good science-folk at Fuji, they have created a lens that surpasses the Canon equivalent and I am as happy as a pig in it's own filth with the new XF90.
(all photos are JPEGs in classic chrome with minor tweaks)
Something that immediately jumps out at you when grasping the XF90 is the build quality. All my XF lenses are certainly well built, but somehow the XF90 and the XF16 seem to be a step up from the previous builds. The aperture ring is just perfect! A wonderful balance of ease of movement and firmness. It just clicks into place confidently across the range.
I was concerned that the XF90 would be too large a lens to match with the XT-1 but it was thankfully not the case. It's actually a bit short and slight more rotund than the XC50-230, which I'm quite used to so it was very familiar territory with the XF90 going onto my XT-1.
So what about that new quad-motor thingy? Well i'll be damned, this thing focuses quickly and accurately and provides the high performance that I was used when using my Canon 135mm F2 L. Admittedly I had my doubts but Fuji have completely destroyed them. Something else that also really surprised me was manual focusing. HOLY SMOKES! This is definitely the best and most 'authentic' and easy to manually focus Fuji lens I have ever used. It's so responsive and easy to finely focus, which is particularly useful when taking advantage of how close the minimum focusing distance is on this lens of 60cm! Yes! 60cm! Where the Canon 135mm only focuses to a minimum of 90cm, this guy comes along and enables you to use the focal range in whole new ways. I couldn't believe how close I could get to the flowers I shot (below) and how damn good the images came up at F2. It ain't macro but jeez, you could certainly get away with some pretty intimate shots.
BOKEH! Oh glorious Bokeh! Just take a look. It's simply the best I've ever seen Fuji produce for the XF range and the focus fall off on the xF90 will have the full frame purists shaking in their boots. Just take a look for yourself.
Fuji have created an absolute winner of a lens here. 'Nuff said.
Cheers to DigiDirect Melbourne as always for them deals!
Spontaneity is incredibly underrated. And sometimes, simply saying 'yes' to an opportunity is the best way to go.
I'm sure many of us feel our work-life creep into our weekend-life, which invariably leaves us feeling unrested and often stifled by a job that we otherwise enjoy. The idea of driving 6 hours on your 2 days off a week is often too great of a sacrifice, and one that we don't see the true value in doing until we finally do it. That was my weekend. A short Saturday getaway with a good mate to Victoria, Australia's south west to the Great Ocean Road and down to the awe inspiring Twelve Apostles.
Our trip saw us travel to some pristine temperate rainforests in Otway, where the endangered black snail can be found, amongst rich, moist forest floors. This experience provided ideal circumstances for me to use my favourite FujiFilm gear to get up close and really craft an image that I wanted, first time, using the ever useful EVF of the XT-1. As we walked among the native blackwood and ash trees, some 25 floors up, I got to capture native flora that I never knew existed. In one small reserve the biodiversity was truly something to behold and had me appreciating, yet again, the beauty that exists in my own backyard.
As the sun began to set low in the afternoon sky, we made a last hour drive to the legendary Twelve Apostles and were fortunate enough to arrive just in time for sunset, with thankfully low numbers of other tourists to be found or hinder the experience. The sea salts rolled in through the air and I took that breath that many of us forget to take in this working life of ever-digital-connectedness. That investment of an afternoon and an evening was worth more than 2 weeks away in a tropical paradise, and it won't be the last.
Well not quite 2 weeks....
But there was a lot packed into those 11 days - a crazy big Irish wedding, amazing ancient sights and scenery, and a heck of a lot of good food, people, and beer. Oh yeah... and the XT-10 & XT-1 with the new Firmware 4.0 plus a few rather nice pieces of FujiFilm glass.
After many months of dreaming about this big trip and even bigger wedding in Ireland, the time finally came. The lead up to the trip and shooting said wedding was made even better with the arrival of the XT-10 and the new firmware 4.0 update that proved the XT-10 to be a formidable force in 'budget' mirrorless cameras, and breathed new life into the XT-1, even though it didn't really need it.
For this trip, my wife and I were primarily hired to shoot a wedding on the west coast of Ireland in the incredibly picturesque town of Dingle. Jaw-dropping would be an understatement. Of course, it would be a pity to not see more of a country than just one place and Ireland is a place of wonder and awe. We packed a rather nice bit of kit for this one, including the fresh and sharp Fujinon XF16 and XT-10.
So how about that XT-10?
Well, what can I say? It's a damn fine camera and a perfect match for the XT-1 for shooting weddings in a discrete and professional manner. I actually ended up using the XT-10 for most of the trip because of its compact size and to give it a fair run for its money. Did it impress me just like almost every Fuji product I've used before it? Absolutely!
For the wedding I shot with the XT-1 over my shoulder with the XF56 and had the XT-10 on a holster with the XF16. A light-weight combo that after 16 hours of shooting did not leave me sore, fatigued or in any state of pain. The only ailment was the tiredness that was to be expected from shooting a day that long! I also got to experience the true value of the SP-1 Instax printer and how integral it is for creating a truly memorable wedding photography service that leave clients overjoyed on their big day! Alas, I cannot share their photos just yet.
XT-10 or X100?
Something that's fairly obvious and should be considered by anyone buying into the Fujifilm X-series is the power in a small package with the XT-10. Shortly after the announcement of the XT-10, I did the usual level of research regarding its specs, size and reported performance, and well, it's almost the same size as the X100 series but does a heck of a lot more! So, I sold off my X100s and jumped on the XT-10 the day after it was available in Australia. I also made a point of picking up the XF27 so I had a very pocketable and discrete option for shooting streets and other settings. Do I miss the X100? Absolutely! Does the XT-10 rock! Yes! I will probably get back into the X100 game when they announce their next model. Until then, the equally discrete and lightweight XT-10 paired with the XT-1 will continue to suit my needs appropriately. More on the XT-10 down the page.
And what about the XF16? It's fair to say that it got a good work out, and yet again, the weather sealing was tested and passed wonderfully when paired with the XT-1. Irish summers aren't particularly summery at times, so long exposure shots with the XT-1 and XF16 on a tripod often meant it got rather wet. Well, quite wet. It really is a sensational combo and the close focusing ability of the XF16 (10cm) is rather useful in a country full of beautiful flowers and other majestic scenery.
Let's get to the burning question - XT-1 VS XT-10
At the time of purchasing the XT-10 there were great end of financial year sales going on and the lovely folks at DigiDirect offered me a killer deal on a second XT-1 rather than the XT-10 (think $100 price difference). Sure, it was tempting but I took the XT-10 instead. Why? As I said before, it's almost the same size as the X100 series (it's actually shorter) and when paired with the XF27 is only slightly deeper in size, which makes it 'pocketable' for me. I also liked some of the new features not present on the XT-1, most notably the full-auto switch that can be useful when handing over your camera to someone who doesn't know what to do, or when teaching a friend casually about composition or something similar. The buttons and dials also feel a bit firmer too, and the d-pad buttons are far more pronounced making it just a little better than the XT-1. Reality is, I simply didn't want a copy of another camera body that's going to sit in storage frequently. I wanted a different option when weather sealing wasn't required and when I wanted the tidiest and most discrete camera option.
The XT-10 performs just as well as the XT-1 on most fronts. Obviously it can't handle burst shooting anywhere near as good but I have found it to be adequate in JPEG only mode when shooting kids playing sports. I'll be honest in saying that I do miss the metering switch that sits atop the XT-1, since I do like to switch between 'average' and 'spot' metering a fair bit. Other than these points they're very similar cameras with enough subtle differences to warrant their individual existence and purpose.
Ireland is a truly magical country. Whether it's the rolling green hills and mountains, decaying ancient ruins along roadsides, or incredible calorie filled Irish breakfasts, it is always a welcoming and inspiring place. My wife and I can't thank the couple who made it all happen enough (wedding blog to come soon) and the wonderful people who took care of us, fed us, gave us beds to sleep in, and most importantly, took me to the pub. A truly hospitable and generous bunch! I can only hope it doesn't take us another life-time to get back there and explore it even further.
Discovering Tasmania with the FujiFilm XT-1 and Fujinon XF16 F1.4 R WR Lens - Review
I recently spent an incredible weekend down in Tasmania, Australia (that's the little piece of Oz that's detached from the mainland at the bottom) with the brand spanking new Fujinon XF16 F1.4 R WR Lens, XF56 1.2 R, and my trusty XT-1. FujiFilm, you made my 30th birthday extremely memorable and blew my expectations for the XF16 out of the water, and those expectations were already very high.
As with my previous post, these are all in-cam JPEGs with Chrome simulation and my own tweaks.
Given how busy my life has been for some time now, as well as my wife's more than hectic schedule, I figured a weekend away in a part of Australia we've never been to was the best way to celebrate my 30 years on this wonderful planet. Little did I know that my dearest friend from the other side of Australia, Western Australia, was scheming to get the XF16 for me as a combined birthday gift with my family.
See why we're best mates?
After waking up in a Hobart hotel with my wife presenting me with the XF16 on a Saturday morning, we grabbed some breakfast from a hipster cafe and embarked on our drive to the awe inspiring Pumphouse Point on Lake St Clair. The drive took a little longer than it should have though because there were simply too many places to stop at and shoot with this 24mm equivalent lens.
A common criticism of FujiFilm's X-cameras is the speed and accuracy of AF, which will hopefully be long gone once they drop the Firmware 4.0 update for the XT-1. So what's the XF16 like on an XT-1 with Firmware 3.0? ABSOLUTELY MARVELOUS! It's focuses quickly, hits the mark with very high accuracy, and doesn't go on hunting trips! LOVE IT!
The XF16 paired with the XT-1 is my favourite combo to date, when considering how it balances on a body with no battery grip and the size and weight of the lens additionally. It just feels right and it has a rather attractive lens hood too. It also features the clutch focusing mechanism that is featured on several other Fujinon XF lenses, which is total gem for street shots fired from the hip. The XF16 was also my first Fujinon lens that has the Weather Resistance (WR) treatment, and believe me, I put the WR of the XF16 and XT-1 to the test though rain, hail, and unexpectedly, snow!
For most of time we spent in Tasmania it rained and snowed, which gave me an awesome opportunity to test the XT-1 and XF16 in some rather rough conditions and see if Fuji is worth their word on their weather sealing. Heck, I even used the XF56 in some less than stellar conditions. Needless to say, the whole kit held up perfectly and in the days I have been using it since, I have not had a single issue. *fingers crossed
I could ramble on about how good the lens is and attempt to get into highly technical language about why it's good, but I think enough has been said in pictures alone. FujiFilm is making the best 'affordable' professional glass out there. The XF16 is a sensational lens and I highly recommend even non Fuji owners get out there and try it out. My wallet is going to hate me though, because with the impeding release of the XF90 and the fact that it's going to be at least on par with the XF16 for IQ, I am going to have to buy it.
One last little snap with the XF16. We are going to be shooting this little man's mum and dad's wedding in Ireland in a few weeks! I think he's a bit excited.
August 2018


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Optical Stores in Rockford, IL
Comprehensive list of Rockford, Illinois based eyewear, eyeglass and optical goods stores and shops.
Business Listings
At Northern Illinois Optical Company & Contact Lens Clinic of Rockford, we pride ourselves in knowing that we've provided Superior, Customer-Focused Service since 1949. We accept practically EVERY insurance plan - we do all of the billing!
We're glad to welcome you to our office. If you're searching for quality care with a individual touch, we hope you will give us a call. We look ahead to the opportunity of serving your family's optometric requirements. We are conveniently situated nearby and would be pleased to have you as a patient. We are situated at Edgebrook Shopping Center near the corner of N Alpine Rd and Highcrest Road.
NW Eyecare has been serving Northern Illinois for over forty years. Our goal is to supply the best quality eye care to our patients and their families. We will assist you maintain healthy eyes through the latest in thorough exams, up-to-date contact lens materials and a range of lenses available for safe eyewear based on your prescription.
At Hauser-Ross Optical we're a complete service optical with a range of contact lenses and eyeglasses to fit every lifestyle and budget. We use the most current technology in lenses, including trivex materials and Anti-Reflective coatings. Vision screenings are not substitutes for eye exams.
Hello, my name is Dr. Anthony Tsiftilis, President and Optometrist of Eye-Q-Vision and I personally want to greet you to our new website and thank you for your interest in our products and services. Everything is new when it comes to Eye-Q-Vision. Our building is new and so is our equipment. And we currently have the newest styles of eyewear using the latest technology available. We are all about the
They retired from the practice in 2003, but the tradition of patient-focused, best quality care in a warm and comfortable environment continues. Through the acquisition of new technology and the continuing education of our physicians and technicians, Hauser-Ross Eye Institute stays abreast of the most proven techniques and equipment for diagnosing and treating conditions and diseases of the eye, as
We're glad to welcome you to our office, and would like to take this opportunity to thank you in advance for choosing us to be your family's eye care supplier. We are a practice committed to your family's vision health care. Our emphasis is on maintaining nice ocular health as the 1st step to promoting great vision and quality of life. Next to life itself, God's greatest gift is that of sight!
We're hiring full-time or part-time at locations throughout the country. U.S. Vision., a wholly-owned subsidiary of Refac Optical Group, is a retailer of optical products and services through retail optical departments licensed to operate within national and local department stores and through a limited number of freestanding retail locations.


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A longtime drag on the stock of Woodside Petroleum has finally been removed as Shell yesterday rid itself of most of its 23 per cent stake. But as one former suitor exits the scene, could another emerge?
Elsewhere, the takeover of David Jones clears its second last hurdle, the chase for Ambassador Oil & Gas heats up and Orica weighs the best way forward on a divestment of its non-mining chemical operations.


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I've been meaning to write this review for weeks and am finally getting around to it!
I did a lot of research and looking on the forums about Crown Brush brushes as I was in need of some decent brushes that weren't going to cost me the earth. There were a couple of negative reviews saying that they're not up to "Mac standard", but most people said thay are good quality and worth having. I figured I'd never know until I tried them so I bought the 23 Piece Professional Set for £60.50. 23 brushes for £60.50, you won't get that at Mac ;-). Apparently, I heard on the forums that Crown Brush actually make brushes for the likes of Mac and Bobbi Brown, so they can't be all that bad. One woman on a forum asked Crown which of their brushes are closest to Mac quality and they said the Studio sets. Might just be my next Crown Brush purchase
This Professional Set includes: Powder Dome, Chisel Powder, Tapered Blush, Angle Blush, Chisel Blush, LG Squirrel Shadow, Deluxe Oval Shadow, Mini Oval Shadow, Chisel Fluff, Oval Fluff, Sable Liner, Small Chisel Fluff, Deluxe Soft Fan, Angle Liner, Brow / Lash Groomer, Mini Oval Smudger, Pointed Liner, Flocked Sponge, Pro Spoolie, Sable Lip with Cover, LG Square Squirrel, Leatherine Snap Case.
So I've been using this set for about a month now, on myself, my sister and my niece when they came to visit. I've deep cleaned them a couple of times and quick cleaned them a couple of times and I haven't noticed any major loss of hairs which is obviously a good sign. The blush, eye and powder brushes are nice and soft and the liner brushes a little firmer which is how I like them. There are a few brushes which I still haven't used, and one or two that I'm not completely fond of so in the future I might buy each brush individually or since there are various sets I may try a different one for variety. The handles are comfortable to hold on each brush for when using them on myself and others and to be honest I really don't have any complaints! The set comes in a roll-up case which is great for keeping everything where it should be and I think people who want some decent brushes for personal use and MUA's that are just starting out could do a lot worse!
If you've tried brushes from the other sets I'd love to hear what you think about them!


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Here is a very cool combination padlock. Unfortunately, it was more cool than I expected, having misjudged the bidding. One can hope for a next time!
This padlock had a high bid of $411.67 (Plus $6.95 Shipping).ANTIQUE RARE VERY LARGE VICTORIAN BRASS 5 WHEELS COMBINATION PADLOCK LOCK THIS LARGE COMBINATION PADLOCK COMES WITH CODE AND WORKS GREAT. IT HAS FIVE WHEELS, EACH WITH 22 CODES. THE CODE TO OPEN IT WILL BE PROVIDED TO WINNER. VERY HEAVY AND RARE TO FIND. THE WHEELS ARE 1.25" IN DIAMETER. MEASUREMENT: 3 inches in HEIGHT X 2 1/4" WIDE. NO MARKINGS. SEE OTHER ITEMS LISTED OVERSEAS PAYPAL ONLY INTERNATIONAL SHIPPING OK ANY QUESTIONS PLEASE ASK. - eBay (6 Aug 2012)


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❤ Quality time with my Nana. We went to Truro last Friday and had so much fun. We did some shoe shopping, bought some Christmas presents and had lunch at Archie Browns. It was such a nice day. I think it's so important to make time to chill with your loved ones. Planning on doing it again some time before Christmas, woo!
❤ This beautiful rainbow of a salad from Swanpool Beach Cafe. It's Moroccan style quinoa with mixed leaves, humus and loads of yummy roasted seeds. It was one of the best salads ever, I'm so glad I gave quinoa another chance. Me and Oli had a really nice lunch at the beach. I love going to the beach in winter because you can watch all the happy dogs bounding around the sand and splashing in the sea.
❤ Winter. I really like winter. I'm not keen on the rain we get a lot here in England but there's a lot of thing I love about winter. I love snuggling up in scarves and jumpers, lie ins in warm beds on cold mornings, that crisp chill in the air, Christmas drinks at coffee shops, Christmas light switch ons, present buying trips. I could go on for ages!
Not a long list today but I am happy and grateful and that's what matters. I'm inviting you all, once again, to comment 3 things you are grateful for this week in the comments section.


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Tue 2 Nov 2010
FOUND: The cool blog Dog Milk
Posted by Administrator under Uncategorized
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We have featured items about pets in the past. We at Lost Cowboy are inspired by our furry friends past and present. I have often spoken about my parents' beloved Lady, the most precious puppy that ever walked the face of the earth. And of course there are Sophie and Gavin's adorable, mischievous yet playful Yorkies (three of them – hear no evil, see no evil and just plain evil).
Anyway, I love products for dogs and art and such that features dogs. So you can imagine how thrilled I was to come across the website cum blog Dog Milk – dedicated to featuring all sort of design-orient products for dogs.
About Dog Milk: "Dog Milk is a website dedicated to modern dog design, inspired by Jaime (Derringer)'s love for her two modern pets, Lulu and Beans . She felt that there needed to be a place where modern dog lovers can discover new products and sniff out what's beyond the chain pet stores. Whether an innovative pet feeder, cool dog tee, or modern dog bed, Dog Milk strives to bring you the most cutting edge and modern design for your very best friend."
Poke around, if you are a dog lover (read: if you have a soul) you will enjoy this site and seeing all of the fun stuff highlighted. I particularly like this recent post about Earth Walker's line of "basic cowls for dogs."


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LPN Programs Hernando MS
If you think you'd like a position in the medical industry, LPN Programs in Hernando MS will help you get started today! In as soon as 9 to 24 months, through online or traditional training classes, you can get ready to take the NCLEX examination. Preparing for Enrollment in LPN Programs in Hernando MS It is important to understand all the conditions for becoming a LPN before you begin your training. You must be of legal age to work in Mississippi, own a high school diploma or GED, pass a criminal history screening, and also have a negative test result […] Read More →


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Latest Advances In Treatment Of Prostate Cancer And The Butterfly Effect
The first blast of winter has reached my little tropical hideaway part of the world. There is a massive high pressure system south of the Great Australian Bight directing Antarctic winds right up the east coast of Australia. Night time temperatures have dropped below 10 degrees celsius with day time temps below 25 deg. It may not sound like a big deal to my southern neighbours but living in temperatures that average minimums of 25 deg to maximums of 35 degrees for nine months of the year it becomes a shock with the first winter blast in this part of the country.
At least the butterfly swarms are still passing by my verandah but I am guessing that this cold dry change will knock them back a bit for this year. Between March and May every year I can sit daily on my verandah and watch the procession of these beautiful creatures as they travel from the south in a northerly direction. I have even seen these swarms over the ocean 100 kilometers from land. Where they come from and where they are going I have no idea. They just happen here every year with the main type being the "blue tiger" but also many other species of all colours and sizes can be mixed with them.
Watching them the other day reminded me of an old metaphor called "The Butterfly Effect." This was a theory exploring the concept of a small thing happening on one side of the planet (such as the flapping of a butterfly wing) can cause an immense reaction in one form or another on the other side of the world. It was part of a theory called the "Chaos Theory" and was generally attributed to calamities, however I believe in "Yin and Yan," so the theory in my opinion should apply equally between good and bad.
One thing cancer has taught me, is to look at life more deeply and appreciate things in a more meaningful way, hence my fixation of my butterflies, their life cycle and the theory. Such a beautiful creature that evolves by unfolding itself from a lowly caterpillar after pupation. I like to believe the whole story offers hope that small actions can create massive changes for the good in this world. Mankind is still at the beginnings of meaningful good changes as witnessed by lifestyle differences. opportunities and other madness going on in the world; We are seriously out of balance. However the more developed countries involve themselves in the opportunity to continue to make advances in areas such as medical practices the more likely these advances will eventually filter throughout all the world. This then takes me to the subject I wish to offer readers in this article, regarding the advances made recently and where we are headed in the treatment of prostate cancer.
So how has treatment for prostate cancer advanced over the past number of years? Before I begin I should quote the following statistic for my readers. The prostate cancer 5-year survival rate has improved from 59% in 1986 to above 92% today, and likewise for most types of cancer the 5-year survival rate has increased. This increased survival rate is due to improved medical practices, the introduction of new drugs and/or the treatment methods and successful research outcomes.
In the case of prostate cancer, over 3300 men will die of this disease this year, even though it is still thought of as a slow-growing old mans disease. The truth is, that early low-grade prostate cancer is indeed slow to promulgate but there are high-grade aggressive varieties that are lethal, and indeed more younger men are now being diagnosed with this disease in their thirties and forties.
While PSA monitoring and DRE procedure have been the main indicators for biopsy; Research is searching for other prostate cancer markers to use, and several exciting pathological trials are underway. Medical imaging has also expanded, with much advances in imaging from MRI, CT and PET scans, along with ultrasound technologies. Much of this future researching and improvements should bring huge benefits in assisting doctors to discern at diagnosis, between the non lethal and lethal types of prostate cancers. This then, should have a great impact in decisions regarding primary treatment for the patient. Improved imaging should enhance the ability to locate and direct biopsies and also to better detect metastasis to bone and other tissues.
In the past few years there has been the introduction of new drugs such as Abiraterone Acetate (Zytiga) and Enzulutamide (Xtandi) which are advances in hormonal drugs offering greater survival rates, with less side effects. Sipuleucel T (Provenge) is an Immunotherapy drug and treatment, which stimulates the individual patients own immune system to attack cancer cells. Radium 233 (Xofigo) which is a radioactive type drug, used in the treatment of bone metastasis with prostate cancer.
Much research continues to search for and identify the different individual characteristics of prostate tumours. This may lead to drugs being available for specific types of tumours, and could lead to individual tailored drugs being used on a patient circumventing the need for current primary treatments of surgery and radiation. This could have profound effects in preventing major life changing side effects.
There is much excitement and discoveries still to come in the medical world over the next decade, and I hope I am still alive to see much of it. Meanwhile I will keep admiring my butterflies for the hope they offer for a better world to come. Is it Possible?????? Perhaps.
Lee aka Popeye
Written by Lee
15 May 2015 at 5:38 pm
Posted in abiraterone, androgen, anti-cancer gene p53, antiandrogen., bone cancer, brachytherapy, castration resistant, chemotherapy, deprivation, erectile dysfunction, external beam, Health, hormone refractory, hormone therapy, Immunotherapy, information, Lee's Page, MEDICAL, MEDICATION, Metastasis, myth, oncology, PERSONAL, PROSTATE CANCER, provenge, quality of life, radiation, radical prostatectomy, robotic prostatectomy, social comment, surgery, testosterone, TREATMENTS, Urology, watchful waiting
Tagged with Androgen deprivation therapy, biopsy, cancer, good news, Health, Hormone therapy, Prostate-specific antigen, PSA, Radiation therapy