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NEC has launched the V423-TM display with a touch capable LCD screen and support for up to four simultaneous touches.
The 42-inch display, with 1920 x 1080 resolution and a 1,300:1 contrast ratio, also features an "anti-reflective glass coating (that) protects the panel and allows for higher brightness transmittance," according to information released by NEC.
Input and output ports include RGB, DVI-D, HDMI, S-video, DisplayPort, 3.5 mm stereo minijack, Ethernet, RS232, and an expansion slot for Open Pluggable Specification devices.
"Consumers are enamored with touch capabilities on their smart phones and other hand-held devices, so organizations are capitalizing on that phenomenon to connect audiences with their own digital screens," said Rachel Karnani, senior product manager for large screen displays at NEC, in a prepared statement. "The V423-TM gives organizations a powerful tool to meet this branding objective."
The V423-TM will be available in January at a minimum advertised price of $2,399. Visit necdisplay.com for more information.
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According to a survey conducted by BoxTone Mobile Service Management, Apple's iPad is becoming increasingly popular with corporations. They recently conducted several webinars to find out what IT departments felt about utilizing Apple's iPad.
BoxTone recently conducted three large Webinars on the topic of securing and managing enterprise iPads at the point of use. During the Webinars, BoxTone leveraged an interactive polling feature to garner the responses from nearly 1200 IT professionals and line of business executives at more than 800 enterprises, government agencies and Managed Services Providers. Half of the survey respondents were from the Fortune® 100; and nearly one-third of the companies participating in the surveys were in the Fortune® 500. Over 10 percent of all respondents were members of the executive tier and C-suite.
Some interesting findings were that 73% of the surveyed companies intend on deploying the iPad as well as other iOS devices for use on their network within the next 12 months, with 25% of those companies set to deploy right away. More than 50% of those surveyed plan on deploying their own iPad app within the next 12 months, while 25% of those plan on deploying as many as three of their own iPad apps.
It is clear that iPad adoption has been fairly quick on the consumer end and now it looks as though it will be a welcome new addition into the corporate world. As the iPad only evolves in features and specs I can only imagine the growth it will continue to have in both the consumer and corporate markets.
Do you work for a company that has adopted the iPad or other iOS device into its ecosystem? If so how do you utilize the iPad in your daily work? Sound off in the comments below as we would like to hear how your company is utilizing Apple's revolutionary tablet.


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April 23, 2013
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (seminoles.com) –
Florida State's ACC basketball schedule will include home games against North Carolina, Syracuse and Notre Dame and its road schedule will see games at Duke, NC State and Pittsburgh as the ACC announced opponents and sites for the 2013-14 conference schedule. The Seminoles will play eight conference games against teams that played in the 2013 NCAA Tournament on their 18-game ACC schedule.
The Seminoles will face each of the 14 teams in the ACC at least once and will play two games each against NCAA Tournament participant Miami, NIT participants Maryland and Virginia along with Clemson in home-and home series against those four teams. Maryland's appearance at the Donald L. Tucker Center will mark their last as a member of the ACC.
The Seminoles will play nine games at home in the Donald L. Tucker Center against North Carolina, Syracuse, Notre Dame, Clemson, Georgia Tech, Maryland, Miami, Virginia and Virginia Tech. The Seminoles will travel to play at Duke, Pittsburgh, Boston College, Clemson, Maryland, Miami, NC State, Virginia and Wake Forest.
The Seminoles' ACC schedule will run from January 4 through March 8 with the 61st Annual ACC Tournament returning to the Greensboro Coliseum March 12-16, 2014.
The additions of Notre Dame, Syracuse and Pitt to the league beginning with the upcoming 2013-14 season has made the ACC arguably the best college basketball conference in the nation. The Seminoles will now face the No. 3 (North Carolina), No. 4 (Duke) and No. 5 (Syracuse) winningest programs of all time in college on an annual basis. Defending national champion Louisville will join the ACC and be on Florida State's schedule for the 2014-15 season.
Florida State is the third winningest team in the ACC since the start of the 2005-06 season and has played in a school record eight consecutive postseason tournaments. The Seminoles return three starters for their 2012-13 team including senior All-American candidate Okaro White (12.4 ppg and a team-leading 5.9 rpg).
Florida State's entire 2013-14 schedule will be released at a later date.
Season Tickets are on sale now for this exciting 2013-14 season. The Tucker Center will be the place to be this year as fans will be able to see the new look ACC. Fans can visit Seminoles.com or call the ticket office at 888-FSU-NOLE to order tickets.
Florida State's ACC Home Game Florida State's ACC Road Games Clemson Boston College Georgia Tech Clemson Maryland Duke Miami Maryland North Carolina Miami Notre Dame NC State Syracuse Pittsburgh Virginia Virginia Virginia Tech Wake Forest


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Bronx Eats: Chicken-n-Ruff and Chow Mein at Melanie's, Castle Hill
Long home to one of the city's largest Puerto Rican populations, the neighborhoods of Castle Hill and Union Port boast a sizable West Indian presence. Melanie's Roti & Grill is one of the many places that gives these immigrants a taste of home.
With its tinted windows and dim lighting, the facade of Melanie's doesn't cast the most welcoming vibe. But even though it looks more along the lines of a dicey neighborhood dive, it's anything but. The dining room, with its blue walls and long bar, is warm without venturing into palm tree and coconut kitsch.
The menu offers an array of West Indian dishes, including jerk chicken ($8) and polourie ($5), to compliment the Guyanese fare. On a golden plate you'll find chicken-n-ruff ($8.50; also known as chicken in de ruff), a traditional Guyanese take on fried chicken and, here, French fries. It won't expand your culinary horizons, but it's just right for fried chicken fiends. Crackling crisp skin has a bubbly sweetness from the sweet brown sauce that collects underneath. Moist and more flavorful then your average fried chicken, the meat on the bone offers an intensely spiced bite. For their part, the fries are filler, nothing to shrug at or celebrate.
Other West Indian and Guyanese dishes—including bigan choka (roasted eggplant with roti; $8), fried banga ($11), and bunjal goat ($10.50), traditionally cooked on a grill with wet wood—are available for exploration. Curries ($7.50-11), an integral part of the Guyanese table, are not neglected either, and come by way of both land and sea: snapper, shrimp, goat, and more.
Home to a small Cantonese population since colonial times, Guyana has a creolized Chinese cuisine all its own. There, the food—influenced, too, by immigrants from India and the local pantry—has not fallen out of favor, and chow mein remains a daily staple. Less cloyingly sweet and greasy, Guyanese Chinese is nonetheless very familiar. Fried rice, lo mein, and the chow mein are all prominently featured on the menu, with a choice of pork (small $8, large $10), beef ($8, $10), pepper shrimp ($10, $15), and roast duck ($9, $12).
Presented with a garnish of cucumber and cabbage, the pork chow mein tickles the tongue with a hint of curry and anise. Lighter in color and flavor then soy sauce-drenched American chow mein you might otherwise find in the Bronx, these noodles are oily, but far from greasy, and have a soft bite. Shredded carrot, string beans, and scallion greens add complimentary freshness. Ringed with fat, the slices of pork are satisfying, simple, and lightly coated in a sweet, sticky sauce that is distantly Chinese—and the best part of the meal.
For a glimpse into the disparate, and still melting, influences that have shaped Caribbean cuisine, Melanie's is a good choice in the Bronx when you're in search of an undaunting, indulgent meal.
Melanie's Roti & Grill
1248 Castle Hill Avenue, Bronx, NY 10462 (map) 718-409-1088
This post may contain links to Amazon or other partners; your purchases via these links can benefit Serious Eats. Read more about our affiliate linking policy.


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Quick question before tonight's episode - uh - how long has Rick been back?
Quote from: Tracy on November 13, 2011, 08:50 PMQuick question before tonight's episode - uh - how long has Rick been back?IN the timeline of the show, I'd say no more than a week or two.
I think I've pretty much given up on the show. I didn't know the title of show referred to the speed this show plot progresses at. I think this season acted like a zombie. I mean we had complete episodes were people searched a house and found nothing. Too slow to stay interesting.
It's so weird to see what they are and are not sticking true to the comic book on...
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text: Earlier this year, the financial community snickered at court filings by SAC Capital trader Andrew Tong alleging that his bosses at the hedge fund forced him to take estrogen pills to become "feminine" and dress in "certain kinds of clothing." Until that point, everyone thought the whole point of being a stock trader or a hedge fund manager was to let one's most testosterone-addled instincts run amok and do things that "normal" people consider stupid like, say, buying or selling securities backed by subprime loans that aren't properly vetted by mortgage brokers encouraging people to file fraudulent applications in order to qualify for more money than they can afford to pay back with interest rates set to adjust up after a year! (Deep breath.)Well, it actually turns out that science backs up the premise that the testosterone-addled among us do make riskier financial decisions! A new study of 98 Harvard students published yesterday in Evolution and Human Behavior shows that men with higher levels of testosterone invested more of their money than those with lower levels. This jibes with earlier studies that show actual traders "make more money" on days when their testosterone levels are higher and that even women make riskier financial decisions while menstruating — when estrogen and progesterone are lower in proportion to naturally occurring testosterone. (Wait, does that mean that testosterone can be blamed for PMS? Because that would be kind of cool.) Anna Dreber, the co-author of the Harvard study, says, "Long-term, above-average testosterone levels may perhaps eventually lead to irrational risk-taking, and thus lower profits." So, maybe there was a method to the SAC Capital estrogen-popping madness? Could a hedge fund really have been trying to maximize long term profits? That might be even stranger than a hedge fund forcing its traders to cross-dress. Is Testosterone To Blame For The Financial Crisis? [LA Times]


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Yesterday Fitch Ratings affirm an 'A-' rating on approximately $144.3 million New Orleans Aviation Board revenue refunding bonds series 2009. The general airport revenue bonds are secured by a pledge of general revenues collected at Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport with a Stable Outlook.
"We're pleased that Fitch affirmed the A- rating with the stable outlook," stated Iftikhar Ahmad, Director of Aviation at Armstrong International. "We continue to grow our air service and this rating shows their confidence in New Orleans and our city's leadership."
Home | About Us | News & Stats | Employee Information | Contact Us | Site Search | Flight Info | Airport Facilities | Transportation & Parking | Business Opportunities | Travel Tips | NOAB Employees | Site Map
© Copyright 2019, Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport. All rights reserved.


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RUSHVILLE (AP) — Everybody knows Megan Ervin and her family in this small town, which in many ways is a comfortable throwback to a much kinder and gentler time.
Ervin, the reigning Miss Illinois and Miss Quincy, has without any great fanfare become one of Rushville's quiet treasures in her own effervescent way.
Sue Sheppard is a waitress at Pizza Unlimited, which sits in a cozy little structure just off the town's southeast edge. The walls are covered with pictures of TV series such as "The Andy Griffith Show" and "Leave it to Beaver," not to mention a wall dedicated to Elvis and the Beatles.
When Sheppard talks about Ervin, her smile lights up the building.
"Oh yes ... I know Megan and her family," she said. "They like sausage and pepperoni on their pizza, and they love our Chicago-style stuffed pizza. It's better than you can get in Chicago."
Such is the relatively slow pace of life in Ervin's hometown, where drivers politely wave at pedestrians across the street near the city square that is near the end of an extensive renovation project.
Ted's Barber Shop closes most days at 1 p.m., but if you need a late cut, he'll be open until 5:30 on Wednesday afternoons. Other storefronts are the Rushville State Bank, an ACE Hardware store, a Subway sandwich shop and a Moreland and Devitt pharmacy that has "proudly served the area for 50 years."
"I still feel like a small town girl," Megan says. "I try to stay true to who I am — it's what has gotten me to where I am."
Where Megan is now is preparing to compete for the title of Miss America. She and 52 other contestants will vie for the crown Jan. 12 in the Theater for the Performing Arts in Paradise, Nev. Pageant winners from all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico have their eye on being named the 86th Miss America.
The pageant will be broadcast worldwide by ABC-TV.
Ervin, 23, is seeking to become the sixth Miss Illinois to be named Miss America and first since 2002. The last local winner of the Miss Illinois pageant was Mary Lee Inzerello, who was Miss Adams County, in 1966. The last Miss Quincy winner to win the Miss Illinois pageant was Viola Hutmacher in 1948. Ervin is the first pageant winner from West-Central Illinois since Carthage's Colleen Metternich, who was Miss Heart of Illinois in 1973.
To say the odds were against Ervin winning the Miss Illinois title is probably an understatement. Twenty-seven of the past 37 winners have come from the immediate or greater Chicago areas, while Ervin hails from Rushville, a town of 3,192 according to city clerk Stacey Briney. Of those 3,192 -- which, by the way, would hardly make a good-sized neighborhood in Chicago -- most likely know Megan and the rest of the Ervins.
"Most of the town was excited when Megan won Miss Illinois," Briney, a longtime friend, said. "I don't think some realize how (rare) it is for someone downstate to win. It wasn't surprising to me she won, and it won't surprise me if she wins at the next level."
Briney says Megan likes everyone, and everyone likes Megan.
"Megan's very upbeat, and a very positive person about everything," Briney said. "She was always involved in everything growing up."
Being named Miss Illinois means Ervin is surrendering a year of her life to wear the crown, sash and six-inch high heels on a daily basis to ribbon-cuttings, interviews, public appearances, giving speeches and similar events. (For the record, there are days when she can go sans crown, but the sash and heels are a must.)
"Some days, there is no time to catch your breath," Megan said. "It is a sacrifice for a year, but this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. It makes you grow up pretty fast."
As Miss Illinois, Ervin cannot hold a job or attend school (she was a student at Western Illinois University). She must keep up with current events so she is well-informed during interviews, and she also must work in preparation for the Miss America pageant. She must hone her interview skills for the all-important face-to-face meetings with pageant judges, and she must work on the dance routine that will represent the talent portion of her Miss America experience. During the Miss Illinois competition, she performed a jazz version of the Ike and Tina Turner classic "Proud Mary," which she plans on changing up for the Miss America pageant.
"My only major complaint about my schedule is I don't have the time to work out like I did before," Ervin said. "I like to work out two to three hours a day."
Being busy is not a problem for Ervin. She was a multi-sport athlete in high school and was involved in other extra-curricular activities.
"The Ervin family is a good Christian family. They're just good people," Jerry Wynn of Rushville said. "They help out a lot with sports at the high school and other things. It's exciting to have something like this, and we're all proud of her."
"Megan's always been very outgoing, and she worked hard to be Miss Illinois," Wilbur Kindhart, another Rushville resident who has known Megan most of her life, said. "She's just a very nice girl from a very nice family."
Cindy Ervin, Megan's mother, readily admits day-to-day life now is much different from when her daughter held such titles as Miss Macomb or Miss Schuyler County Fair.
"This has changed our lifestyle immensely over the last few months ... but I think Megan really understands the phrase, 'No place like home,' " Cindy Ervin said. "I think she'll always be a small-town girl who will (eventually) live in a bigger city."
Megan agrees, saying she will probably wind up in a city like Quincy or Springfield. She wants to eventually own her own fitness-related business.
"I will definitely stay in Illinois," she said.
And by saying "Illinois" and "bigger city," that will never translate into Chicago. She already has spent enough time there for Miss Illinois duties to know that is not where she wants her permanent home to be.
"Do you know it cost me $42 to park there the other day — for three hours?" said Megan, whose favorite food is sushi and who never misses an episode of "Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders: Making the Team."
Megan's dad, Jeff Ervin, admits he was not gung-ho — not even close — about seeing his oldest daughter get involved in beauty pageants several years ago.
"I was against it at the beginning," he said, shaking his head in a negative fashion.
Dad's main concern was having his daughter parade around a stage in a swimsuit, which at the early competitions was a one-piece. The two-piece suit she will wear on the Miss America pageant is still a rather touchy subject.
"Especially on national television," he said.
Mallory Ervin, Megan's 21-year-old sister, also is a former Miss Schuyler County Fair winner (the Ervins are only the second set of sisters in the event's history to both wear the crown). She says their father has mellowed quite a bit.
"We now call him Percy the Pageant Guru," Mallory said. "He's even getting pretty good at predicting the winners."
Megan smiles at Mallory's words.
"Dad's changed a lot," she said.
For the record, Jeff Ervin is not done worrying. Missy, the youngest of the three Ervin sisters, likely will be entering pageants in the not-too-distant future.
What actually worries Jeff and Cindy Erwin the most about Megan's hectic schedule is all of the traveling she does, while working to keep her well-grounded and to remember the glitz and glamour of the Miss America pageant are not the "real world."
"We have a good support system in place for Megan," Cindy Ervin said.
Jeff Ervin said a good example of what Megan's life is like these days involves the upcoming four-day Thanksgiving holiday. Megan will be in four Illinois cities in as many days, attending and participating in major public events, including the Chicago Thanksgiving Day parade.
Megan also has sung the national anthem at a Chicago Cubs game at Wrigley Field and threw out the first pitch at a Chicago White Sox game at U.S. Cellular Field. She also will be performing at a Chicago Bulls game in the not-too-distant future.
Mallory is Megan's biggest cheerleader and has been involved with her through this process. The two sisters are good friends and even shared an apartment for three years at WIU before Megan became Miss Illinois.
Mallory also is good for providing her sister with a good reality check, if needed.
"We were heathens growing up," Mallory said, poking fun at her big sister. "And don't let her kid you. She eats, sleeps and breathes beauty pageants."
Mallory also has serious questions about her sister's non-pageant related skills -- such as cooking.
"Megan's not very good with a microwave," she confided.
Mom and dad just sit, listen and watch.
"We could be a reality TV show," Cindy Ervin said. "We're a fun family, but we're not one of those 'pageant' families."
Megan says her goal at the Miss America pageant is to make the final 15, who will get the most air time on the broadcast. All 53 will be introduced to the viewing audience, but the cut is quick to 15.
Cathy Redshaw said she will not be surprised to see Megan do "very well" in the Miss America competition. Redshaw, who owns the local Dairy Queen and an insurance agency, is a longtime friend of the Ervins. She's also the state director of the Miss Illinois County state pageant and has been one of Megan's strongest backers from the beginning.
"I knew Megan was special when I first started working with her," Redshaw said. "There's nobody else quite like Megan. I begged her dad to let her be in Miss Schuyler County.
"I've followed Megan for the whole journey — and I'll be in (Nevada)."
So will many other friends and family members. Cindy Ervin is estimating more than 75 will be heading west for the pageant.
"We've been told it's one of the biggest groups the pageant has ever had," Cindy Ervin said.
Rushville Mayor Scott Thompson is ecstatic about Megan's accomplishments and what they have meant to the area.
"It's awesome!" he said.
Redshaw, however, may have best captured the community's sentiment surrounding Megan and her bid to be Miss America.
"Megan will always be our queen," she said.
Online: http://bit.ly/QiiwOK


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Lines, cash desks & entrances
You've followed the indications leading from the car parks and the train station to the entrance. What next? Read this page to know what to expect and onsite, follow our staff members' directions!
1. Hall 8: Security Checks
Due to the security level (Vigipirate) in France at the moment, special measures are planned for the duration of the festival.
As a consequence, all attendees must go through security checks in hall 8 before entering the festival.
Click the links for more about
2. Hall 7: Lines
After security checks, ALL attendees are invited to go to hall 7 where there are several lines depending on their type of ticket:
- An orange line for people with 1-day tickets
- A red line for people with 4-day passes
- A purple line for Zen and Zen+ Ticket owners
- A green line for people without tickets who are lead to the festival cash desks
- A blue line for priority people, disabled people, people with strollers or young children, pregnant women, people who can't keep standing
Attention: for people who are allowed free entrance, free tickets must be picked up at the Troubelshooting Desk only, in hall 7, before the lines.
This concerns children under 8 and the companions of people with disabilities with a card or justification showing that they need a companion or are blind. In both cases, you'll need to show a justification.
3. Entrances & Cash Desks
- From 9.00 am, people with tickets are led to the entrance of the festival after ticket control.
Zen and Zen+ ticket owners are allowed in from 8.30 am.
- From 10.00 am, people without tickets are led to the festival cash desks to buy their entrance tickets.
Means of payment:
- Cash. Please note that banknotes above €50 are not accepted, as well as payments made with more than 50 coins.
In order to save time, please prepare the exact change before you get to cash desks.
- Credit cards at some specific cash desks.
- Checks are no longer accepted, only cash and credit cards.
Tickets for the day and for the following days are available at the cash desks: you can buy your tickets for several days if you like. We reming you that you also get a discount when buying presale tickets.
Disabled people
Attention, the entrance for disabled people is now made through hall 7, after security check in hall 8, where they have a dedicated line.
For those people, the entrance is open at 9.00 am if they have a ticket and at 10.00 am if they have to buy a ticket.
Attention to opening hours!! There's no use coming at 5.00 am and wait for several hours at the entrance. Yet you can come a bit earlier than you usually do to have time for security checks.
Before coming to the festival, please check the list of forbidden items to make sure you're not bringing anything that won't be allowed in.
On site, open your bags and coats before your turn arrives at security checks to save time.
For more information, please read:


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This furnace is covered by what we believe to be one of the best warranties in the indoor home comfort industry. The heat exchanger is covered by a Lifetime Limited Warranty to the original, registered homeowner and if it fails during the first 10 years of ownership, we will replace the entire unit for as long as you own your home. This furnace also has a 10-Year Parts Limited Warranty on all functional parts. For a full description of all warranties applicable to this product, please review the consumer brochure or product warranty by clicking on the links below.
This gas furnace has an AFUE rating of up to 95%, which means that up to 95 cents of every $1.00 of heating energy expense warms your home.
Before purchasing this appliance, read important information about its estimated annual energy consumption, yearly operating cost, or energy efficiency rating that is available from your retailer.


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Marcus "Notch" Persson, the creator of Minecraft, is working on something new. It's called 0x10.cc, and is a sci-fi game that's got some neat ideas, promising things like working computers and the ability to "seamlessly [land] on planets".
Another neat idea he's had, and one which more developers could do with following, is that he's already released (or at least, hosted on his site) some screenshots of the game. Despite the fact that, at this stage, it's barely a game at all.
So they're rough, yes, and appear to be including a low-poly Team Fortress 2 character, but the point here is that he's giving you an idea of what he's thinking and where he's at, not what the marketing team determines we think will make us buy something.
I mean, we see set photos from movies all the time. Characters half-dressed, superhero costumes obscured by bathrobes and with cigarettes in their mouths. And we still look. How is this any different?
0x10.cc [Official site]


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Welcome to the Kumoricon Forums! Remember: Have fun! – Forum code of conduct.
0 Members and 1 Guest are viewing this topic.
My question for the candidates, (I believe correct me if I am wrong ) the board, at times meets weekly, are you able to make it to those meetings and the monthly meetings out of town?
It's funny that you asked that, because I've considered doing publicity (not as Director) since the con is in Clark County. My anime club has been making plans to make commercials to make our showings more..., well, more. We're also talking about showing one or two during particular school events, such as Club Fair. Maybe we could make some KCOn commercials...?As for software & hardware, well, I don't think there's really anything special used. With the auction, I think the only technology used this last year was a graphing calculator.
What do you envision in terms of the move to the two hotels, in terms of prioritizing allocation of space?
Are there any niches of con work, before, during, or after the actual con, that are not presently staff positions under Relations (or perhaps not staff positions presently at all), that you feel it would help Relations to adopt as new staff positions?
People skills are absolutely essential in this department. What experiences do you have in this area? What have you noticed to be your own strengths and weaknesses in this area?
How important is it for a Director to get to know each of her or his staff, at least top staff? If not personally, at least by face or name? What are some ways you would endeavor to get to know your staff?
How would your work in this area differ from work you are used to doing, both inside and outside of KC?
(This question assumes that the space chosen is the Parking Level)1. In terms of history with the Vancouver Hilton & our Dealers, how prepared are you to combat some of the issues that were present in 2007 in regards to our Dealer Hall. Namely; how do you plan to market this space to Dealer's whose experience in that space was either negative or less than stellar?OR: Do you have alternative options in mind to negate this issue?
2. Guest of Honor preparations require a LOT of communication with many different people in order to work out costs, travel, and accommodations before a contract can even be looked at, let alone signed. With complete honesty how reliable can you say your communication with Professionals and Handlers or similar working officials who deal with Celebrities and/or VIP's is? Do you have precedent to back up your skills at sticking with and staying on a line of communication?
What's your favorite flavor of Pocky.
(1) What do *you* consider to be the most important qualities in someone working either directly with Guests of Honor, as a Liason, or indirectly, with their management, in negotiating contracts?
(2) Have you attended any of the Guest of Honor events? How much do you consider them the sine qua non of Programming, or how much do you consider them just one of many draws?
(3) Do there happen to be any areas of Relations that might tend to go overlooked or understaffed if a focus is on Guests of Honor, akin to how, in years past, people pointed out a disproportionate amount of Ops's attention being focused just on Yojis? If not presently, how can you keep that balance? If there are, how can you facilitate an approach to the department that covers a wider variety of areas?
What could you, as Relations Director, do to help make the historically under-staffed areas of your department feel more accessible and comfortable?
What kind of things are likely to arise that may interfere? (Deaths in the family are, of course, impossible to anticipate.)
To what extent are fan craft products presently part of Artists' Alley?
Given the increasing popularity of fan craft programming, could there potentially be a Crafters' Corner in Artists' Alley?
Do you have any thoughts as to where to situate Artists' Alley? Such as whether it would be more near the Art Show, Programming areas, or wherever Exhibitors' Hall is situated?
Does Kumoricon still barter for space sometimes?
(1) What do you see as the main reasons people who have been staff at KC choose to leave staff?
(2) What do you see as the main reasons people who have been staff at other anime cons, sci-fi cons, or other types of profession-related or activism-related organizing, do not feel as drawn to being or as comfortable being KC staff?
(3) Would you consider holding exit interviews with people who have been staff who choose to cease being staff, to find out why, in hopes of increasing retention? If not, why not?
(4) Would you consider running an anonymous survey of staff who do intend to return, regarding what the biggest impediments to returning might be and what the biggest incentives to return might be? If not, why not?


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Atelir needed a new logo design and created a contest on 99designs.
A winner was selected from 297 designs submitted by 65 freelance designers.
Blueprint Brandr
Blueprint Brandr helps entrepreneurs start early-stage branded consumer internet companies. Much like Techstars and Y Combinator, we provide mentorship, a small stipend, and a collaborative environment for companies to go from idea to prototype in 3 months.
The word "brand" is derived from the Old Norse brandr, meaning "to burn." It refers to the practice of producers burning their mark (or brand) onto their products.
(a) Entrepreneurs from the consumer internet space
(b) Investors in the consumer internet space
We prefer a wordmark or custom text that incorporates imagery associated with the derivation of our name.
Origination of Blueprint Brandr
(a) blueprint: we are a start-up accelerator. we help start-ups/entrepeneurs in the consumer branded internet space create a blueprint to grow.
(b) brandr: the word "brand" is derived from the Old Norse brandr, meaning "to burn." It refers to the practice of producers burning their mark (or brand) onto their products
Specifically, concentrate on the word "brandr" - and perhaps a burnt, raised or imprint look for "brandr."
In particular, look at the "burned" jpeg we've attached or the following link: http://www.siamwoodworks.com/produc…oxes_3.jpg
Consider making "Blueprint" lowercase and "BRANDR" uppercase.
1) The logo must have a white background. No backgrounds, business cards, etc. Just white and the logo. All designs will be deleted if extraneous details are included.
2) Only submit one logo per design (do not submit duplicates or minor variations). All designs will be deleted if duplicates are submitted.
3) Logo should communicate: Professionalism, innovation, design, style. It should be more techy than corporate.
4) Consider putting "Brandr" below "Blueprint," either centered or right-aligned
Other links that may be helpful
We will be giving plenty of feedback and would like to pick a logo ASAP so please get your entries in.
Thank you to everyone that submits a logo, we appreciate your effort.
Find out how a design contest works or learn more about our logo design services.


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PSA: Get An Additional 2GB of Free Google Drive Storage by Securing Your Account
Subject: General Tech | February 12, 2016 - 09:56 PM | Tim Verry
Tagged: google drive, google, cloud storage
In honor of Safer Internet Day, Google is offering up 2GB of additional Google Drive storage space for free to users that run a security checkup on their accounts through this Google tool.
Google will ask you to go through several steps to secure your Google account and verify your information. You will need to confirm your account recovery information and connected devices. The tool will also show you what applications and services have access to your Google account (for me it was only Chrome and Target's Cartwheel app). Further, it will ask you to set up 2-factor authentication and confirm that you still want to leave the listed app passwords active (app passwords are randomly generated passwords used in apps that do not support 2-factor authentication, such as Thunderbird).
After stepping through the security checklist, you will find an addtional 2GB of storage space in your Drive account. Note that native Google Docs do not count against your space, but uploaded copies of things like Excel spreadsheets and Word documents kept in those formats do. Get the free space while it's still being offered!
Also, I hope that you have already locked in your OneDrive storage space as well!
Microsoft Office shows up in Google Drive
Subject: General Tech | July 22, 2015 - 12:38 PM | Jeremy Hellstrom
Tagged: google, google drive, microsoft, office
As has happened recently with Dropbox, Box and Apple iCloud, Google Drive has adopted the Microsoft Office API which was released not to long ago, bringing Office Suite compatibility to their cloud. As anyone who has actually tried it knows, the compatibility between Google's applications and Microsoft's Office Suite was more theory than fact. This new plug-in will allow you to save Office files on your Google Drive and open and edit them from within your browser, as long as you are not using the Office 2016 preview which is not compatible. If this interests you then follow the links from The Inquirer to learn more.
"GOOGLE HAS BECOME the latest big player to integrate with rival Microsoft's Office suite."
Here is some more Tech News from around the web:
- How Two Bored 1970s Housewives Helped Create the PC Industry @ Slashdot
- Hacking Team's RCS Android May Be the Most Sophisticated Android Malware Ever Exposed @ Slashdot
- 10 Things to Do After Installing Linux Mint 17.2 @ Linux.com
- Microsoft has RECORD quarter, in a BAD way - Sad Nad slashes phone biz @ The Register
- Microsoft open sources software-defined radio code @ The Inquirer
- Are You Ready For Windows 10? @ Tech ARP
- AKRACING AK-6014 Black/Blue Gaming Chair Review @HiTech Legion
BitTorrent Sync; faster than OneDrive, Dropbox and Drive?
Subject: General Tech | October 23, 2014 - 12:34 PM | Jeremy Hellstrom
Tagged: bittorrent sync, cloud, dropbox, onedrive, google drive
BitTorrent is good for more than just downloading files of various natures, it has a tool called Sync which performs a similar task to solutions like Dropbox only more privately and apparently with more speed. From the graph below you can see that in at least one scenario BitTorrent Sync is significantly faster than other solutions when it is allowed free reign on your connection, you can limit the speed in the settings if time is not of the essence. What is also very important to note is that this is purely an encrypted client to client transfer, your files are never cached on a server for posterity or for 'quality assurance' as they are when you use the competitions software. That does mean both devices need to be powered on and on the network for this to work but for many the privacy would be worth the slightly less flexible operation. Check it out on Slashdot.
"Now that its file synchronization tool has received a few updates, BitTorrent is going on the offensive against cloud-based storage services by showing off just how fast BitTorrent Sync can be. More specifically, the company conducted a test that shows Sync destroys Google Drive, Microsoft's OneDrive, and Dropbox. The company transferred a 1.36 GB MP4 video clip between two Apple MacBook Pros using two Apple Thunderbolt to Gigabit Ethernet Adapters, the Time.gov site as a real-time clock, and the Internet connection at its headquarters (1 Gbps up/down)."
Here is some more Tech News from around the web:
- Microsoft unveils tighter security plans for Windows 10 @ The Inquirer
- Windows Update bricks fake USB chips @ The Inquirer
- iPad Air 2 teardown reveals down-sized battery and glued-down components @ The Inquirer
- Google+ goes TITSUP. But WHO knew? How long? Anyone ... Hello ... @ The Register
Insync 1.0 For Linux Finally Out of Beta Status
Subject: General Tech | August 2, 2013 - 12:57 AM | Tim Verry
Tagged: linux, insync, google drive, file sync
Insync, a service that enables file syncing between local machines and Google Drive cloud storage recently announced that its Linux client has been updated to version 1.0 and is officially out of beta.
Several bug fixes and performance tweaks hve been made to the Insync Linux client, which has gone through several beta testing/feedback cycles between the Windows and Mac 1.0 release and the new Linux 1.0 release. Users can now install Insync for Linux on various Linux distributions using apt-get or yum. Insync 1.0 for Linux will further add a new right-click context menu that allows users to add files to Insync and the software takes care of adding a symlink to the Insync folder automatically. The local Insync files will then be sync to Google Drive, including your documents.
Unfortunately, the file compare update is still being worked on. This update wil enable users to update to version 1.0 from a x.9 release without re-downloading all of their data stored in Google Drive. According to Insync, this feature is slated for inclusion in the Insync 1.1 Linux client.
More information on the latest Insync for Linux application can be found at insynchq.com/linux.
Insync Releases 1.0 RC for Linux
Subject: General Tech | May 29, 2013 - 03:19 PM | Tim Verry
Tagged: insync, google drive, cloud storage, linux
Insyc has released a new release candidate for its Google Drive companion software that adds a few new features and bug fixes to the Linux client.
According to Insync, the 1.0 RC implements an improved syncing core build from scratch. It also allows users to selectively sync files and folders between local storage and their Google Drive cloud storage. It is no longer all or nothing, and you can choose to only store what you need locally rather than the entire document archive now. The release candidate software also allows customized account folders that can be renamed and moved to other locations on the drive. Symlink support, headless installs, and a CLI (command line interface) client are also included in the Insync 1.0 RC.
Insync has also made changes to the management user interface to make configuring the syncing options easier. Finally, Insync has also coded in a notification function that will notify users of changes to files on Google Drive which will be handy for collaborative documents and spreadsheets.
Insync has put together Debian packages for OSes like Ubuntu (Nautilus) and Mint (Cinnamon, MATE, Xfce desktop environments). Additionally, support for KDE and RPM packages is "coming soon." You can grab the new beta 1.0 RC client here.
Insync Extending Support for 0.9.x Versions As it Improves The Upgrade Process To Its New 1.0 Client
Subject: General Tech | April 25, 2013 - 10:00 AM | Tim Verry
Tagged: insync, google drive, file sync, cloud storage
Insync -- a service that extends the functionality of Google Drive and (among other things) allows users to sync Google Drive files (and documents) with their local computer for offline access -- has announced that it is extending support for version 0.9.x clients due to users expressing concerns over upgrade issues. The company released a new version 1.0 desktop client last month that added a number of new features, and the older clients were scheduled for end-of-life support.
Unfortunately, in order to upgrade to the new Insync 1.0, users needed to re-download all of their files stored on Google Drive. In an email to users, Insync sympathized with users' concerns over needing to re-download all files (especially those with extensive libraries of files and/or low data caps) of their files simply to upgrade the client-side application.
Insync has announced that it is working on a solution that will allow users to upgrade to the new (and improved) client without needing to re-download files from Google Drive, which is currently necessary to bring the client in sync with the cloud storage service. There is no ETA on the new client, but the company is reportedly hard at work on fixing the issue.
In the meantime, users can continue using their current desktop clients without worrying about file sync and tech support ending.
Google I/O 2012: Day One
Subject: General Tech | June 27, 2012 - 10:48 AM | Tim Verry
Tagged: tablet, google io, google drive, google, developers, conference, chrome, asus, Android
Every June, the tech world lights up with numerous tech conferences that pack dense information into a couple days (and takes weeks to fully decompress). One of the bigger conferences (by a single company, Computex is its own beast) is Google I/O.
The biggest rumor to come out concerning this year's Google I/O announcements is an ASUS manufactured 7-inch Nexus Tablet. It is allegedly packing some high end hardware with the Tegra 3 Soc, up to 16GB of memory, IPS display, and an extremely attractive price at less than $200. Beyond that, we can expect Jelly Bean (Android 4.1) information, developer talks, software demos, and more talk of Google Wallet, and NFC technology. Heck, Google may even make a second attempt at pushing Android@Home (or maybe not heh).
Being June 27th, it is the first day of Google I/O and that means it is time for keynotes! On the schedule for today, Google has talks on the new aspects of Android, Google Play, cloud computing, Youtube cloud rendering, Google+ (including Hangouts), and new features of Google Maps. They also have talks scheduled with Google Drive information that should demo some of the things developers can do with the Drive SDK.
We are excited to see if the Nexus tablet rumors are true or not, as well as learning more about the latest version of Android. If you are interested in watching the event, check out the Google I/O schedule where you can tune into the most of the events live. The first event starts soon at 9:30am PST!
Check back later today for updates!
Update: (9:00 PST) A leaked screenshot indicates that the Nexus tablet may be called the Nexus 7.
Update: (9:30 PST) Vic Gondotra stepped on stage to kick off the Google I/O conference. He stated that there are more than 30,000 people in attendance.
What are you excited about at Google I/O? Let us know in the comments below!
See more updates after the break.
Search engine giant Google took the wraps off its long rumored cloud storage service called Google Drive this week. The service has been rumored for years, but is (finally) official. In the interim, several competing services have emerged and even managed to grab significant shares of the market. Therefore, it will be interesting to see how Google's service will stack up. In this article, we'll be taking Google Drive on a test drive from installation to usage to see if it is a worthy competitor to other popular storage services—and whether it is worth switching to!
How we test
In order to test the service, I installed the Google desktop application (we'll be taking a look at the mobile app soon) and uploaded a variety of media file types including documents, music, photos, and videos in numerous formats. The test system in question is an Intel i7 860 based system with 8GB of RAM and a wired Ethernet connection to the LAN. The cable ISP I used offers approximately two to three mpbs uploads (real world speeds, 4mbps promised) for those interested.
Google's cloud service was officially unveiled on Tuesday, but the company is still rolling out activations for people's accounts (my Google Drive account activated yesterday [April 27, 2012], for example). And it now represents the new single storage bucket for all your Google needs (Picasa, Gmail, Docs, App Inventor, ect; although people can grandfather themselves into the cheaper Picasa online storage).
Old Picasa Storage vs New Google Drive Storage Plans
|Storage Tier (old/new)
|Old Plan Pricing (per year)
|New Plan Pricing (per year)
(Picasa Plans were so much cheaper–hold onto them if you're able to!)
The way Google Drive works is much like that of Dropbox wherein a single folder is synced between Google's servers and the user's local machine (though sub-folders are okay to use and the equivalent of "labels" on the Google side). The storage in question is available in several tiers, though the tier that most people will be interested in is the free one. On that front, Google Drive offers 5GB of synced storage, 10GB of Gmail storage, and 1GB of Picasa Web Albums photo backup space. Beyond that, Google is offering nine paid tiers from an additional 25GB of "Drive and Picasa" storage (and 25GB of Gmail email storage) for $2.49 a month to 16TB of Drive and Picasa Web Albums storage with 25GB of Gmail email storage for $799.99 a month. The chart below details all the storage tiers available.
|Storage Tiers
|Drive/Picasa Storage
|Gmail Storage
|Price (per month)
|$0 (free)
|25GB (shared)
|100GB (shared)
|200GB (shared)
|400GB (shared)
|1TB (shared)
|2TB (shared)
|4TB (shared)
|8TB (shared)
|16TB (shared)
The above storage numbers do not include the 5GB of free drive storage that is also applied to any paid tiers. The free 1GB of Picasa storage does not carry over to the paid tiers.
Even better, Google has not been stingy with their free storage. They continue to allow users to upload as many photos as they want to Google+ (they are resized to a max of 2048x2048 pixels though). Also, Google Documents stored in the Docs format continue to not count towards the storage quota. Videos uploaded to Google+ under 15 minutes in length are also free from storage limitations. As far as Picasa Web Albums (which also includes photos uploaded to blogger blogs) goes, any images under 2048x2048 and videos under 15 minutes in length do not count towards the storage quota either. If you exceed the storage limit, Google will still allow you to access all of your files, but you will not be able to create any new files until you delete enough files to get below the storage quota. The one exception to that rule is the "storage quota free" file types mentioned above–Google will still let you create/upload those. For Gmail storage, Google allows you to receive and store as much email as you want up to the quota. After you reach the quota, any new email will hard bounce and you will not be able to receive new messages.
In that same vein, Google's paid tiers are not the cheapest but are still fairly economical. They are less expensive per GB than Dropbox, for example, but are more expensive than Microsoft's new Skydrive tiers. One issue that many users face with online storage services is the file size limit placed on individual files. While Dropbox places no limits (other than overall storage quota) on individual file size, many other services do. Google offers a compromise to users in the form of 10GB per file size limits. While you won't be backing up Virtualbox hard drives or drive image backups to Google, they'll let you backup anything else (within reason).
Google Drive Rumored To Launch Next Week
Subject: General Tech | April 19, 2012 - 04:23 AM | Tim Verry
Tagged: dropbox, storage, free storage, google, google drive
Users of online storage have been spoiled by services like Dropbox, Spider Oak, and Box.com who offer up gobs of free storage space. Before they became prevalent, there was Gmail and rumors of a Google Drive. This Google Drive never really materialized beyond user workarounds to upload files using a program that stored them in Google's Email service's approximate 9 GB of space.
Finally, after years of other services entrenching themselves in the market, it seems like Google may be jumping in. If rumors are true, the new online storage service will launch in the middle of next week at the drive.google.com URL. The Google Drive will reportedly offer 5GB of free storage space as well as paid tiers for increased storage levels (pricing unknown). Further, users will be able to access the files via the website and using applications. So far, rumors are pointing to a Windows and Mac OSX application, though it would not be surprising to see an Android app in the future.
I'm excited to see this service finally launch and what Google's take on online storage will be. My only concern is whether they are jumping into the game at a time when it is too little too late. Sure, everyone and their grandmother likely have at least one Google/Gmail account but many of those people also have Dropbox accounts. The free services that were not really around when the first hints of a Google Drive emerged have not blossomed and dug their roots into the market. Even Apple and Microsoft have beat Google to the punch with cloud storage, so it is going to be an uphill battle for Google requiring something unique in order for it to catch on.
Don't get me wrong, I'm definitely going to be checking it out, but I believe they are really going to have to knock this out of the park on the first try in order to succeed. Will you be checking it out, and when (if?) you do please report back and let us know what you think of it. How do you think the other free and paid storage services will react to Google entering the market?
Image courtesy pmsyyz via Flickr Creative Commons


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OSV Scout Day: "The Legend of Sleepy HollowLives on … in 1830"
Saturday, November 6, from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Old Sturbridge Village
This fall event is for Girl Scouts, Boy Scouts, and their families who want to learn about America's past. It was in 1820 that Washington Irving's The Legend of Sleepy Hollow was first published, thrilling audiences with its mystery, action, and horror! This ghoulish short story tells the tale of a Hessian soldier who comes back to haunt a small rural community while looking for the head that he lost during a Revolutionary War battle.
Learn about this tale and its time through storytelling, demonstrations and hands-on activities.
Program Levels: Daisies through Ambassadors, and Juliette Scouts in grades K-12
Sign-up by: November 5
Cost: $7 per Scout ($10 includes patch) $7 per Leader and adult volunteer (NOTE: only 1 adult per Scout. Additional adults are $20.)
To Register: Visit www.osv.org or contact Kathy Kime at 508-347-0335.
There is no minimum or maximum required for this event.


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bgkromm needed a new logo design and created a contest on 99designs.
A winner was selected from 57 designs submitted by 17 freelance designers.
We need a sharp logo that will grab our customers attention!
Auto Buyers Club
Auto Buyers Club is a new business in need of a great logo. We will eventually need a web design as well. Auto Buyers Club is centered around multiple aspects of automotive goods and services. We focus on professionalism, quality and service.
- Logo will be used in both web & print
- Logo must be original and unique
- Distinctive, Modern, Eye-catching, Professional
- Fresh, Clean, Sharp
- May use car or variation of auto theme if you like, but feel free to experiment with other ideas too
- Be creative, use your imagination
- No cutesy stuff- No clip art
Find out how a design contest works or learn more about our logo design services.


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Tibet - Drayerpa, Namtso, Samye - 13 Days trek
Trip Facts
Tour Name : Tibet - Drayerpa, Namtso, Samye - 13 Days Entry / Exit : Fly in / Drive out Grade : Easy to Adventurous Max Elevation : 5200m/17056ft Accommodation : Hotel /Guest house Meal : Bed & breakfast Transport : Flight & Private vehicle Tour Days : 13
- One hour Trans-Himalaya flight and breath taking aerial view of Everest and other highest peaks
- Visit of Potala Palace (Winter Palace), Norbulinka and Tibet Museum
- Yambu Lakhang in Tsedang
- Visit of the Nam Tso Lake and Tashi Do and Drakyerpa
Trip summary:
Tibet -a land so rich in Culture, tradition and steeped in religion along the far flung unique landscape, also called the roof of the world. Let the age old Tibetan Myths & mysteries cast and enchanted spell that holds an every visitor in thrill and excitement.
This overland tour is designed for those who prefer to soak in the sights by driving around. This tour gives you an opportunity to discover the real Tibet. From the bustling old cities to the ancient villages and settlements. This overland tour connects two old capital cities, Lhasa in Tibet and Kathmandu in Nepal. Tibet, which boasts of spectacular mountain scenery and a rich cultural heritage, is a place worth visiting. As you drive across the Tibetan plateau, you will be expertly guided around all the Tibetan monasteries, temples, monuments and important tourist sites by the local Tibetan guide.
This tour offer you most of the popular sightseeing tour in Tibet including Potala Palace, Sera Monastery, Drepung Monastery, Jokhang Temple, Barkhor market, Namtso Lake, Tashido and Drakyerpa. Leaving Lhasa, you will be driven past picturesque Tibetan settlements where nomadic herdsmen can be seen wandering across the wide arid plateau. This overland journey takes you over several high mountain passes with spectacular mountain views, including those of the majestic Mount Everest, Cho Oyo, Makalu and Shishapangma. Your adventure tour continues to the historic cities of Gyantse and Shigatse.
The tour begins with a comprehensive trip briefing in Kathmandu followed by a sensational Trans Himalayan flight to Lhasa that passes over Mt. Everest and many highest peaks of the world. This is the only Everest flight that flies over Mt. Everest and other highest peaks. If you start your tour in Lhasa arriving from mainland China; Tour briefing will take place in Lhasa.
|Outline Itinerary
|Overnight (BB)
|Fly Kathmandu – Gongkar – Tandruk – Tsedang.
|Hotel (BB)
|Tsedang – Samye – Lhasa
|Hotel (BB)
|Visit Drepung Monastery, the Jokhang Temple & Barkhor Market.
|Hotel (BB)
|Visit Potala Palace, Norbulinka Palace and the Tibet Museum.
|Hotel (BB)
|Lhasa Tsurphu – Namtso
|Hotel (BB)
|Day trip Tashi Do
|Hotel (BB)
|Drive back to Lhasa
|Hotel (BB)
|Day trip to Drakyerpa
|Hotel (BB)
|Drive to Gyantse via Yamdrok Tso
|Hotel (BB)
|Drive to Shigatse. Visit Shalu en-route
|Hotel (BB)
|Drive to Shegar. Visit Sakya en-route
|Hotel (BB)
|Drive to Zhangmu
|Hotel (BB)
|Drive to Kathmandu
You will be met at Gongkar Airport by your Tibetan guide. After immigration formalities take an hour drive passing through barley and wheat fields brings you to the third largest city in Tibet, Tsedang. We visit the Tandruk Monastery and Yumbu Lakhang in Tsedang.
Tradruk Monastery: meaning eagle and dragon in Tibetan, also known as the Changzhug Monastery is the largest and most important of the surviving royal foundations in the Yarlung Valley. Tradruk is said to have been the second of Tibet's earliest great geomantic temples after the Jokhang. It is believed that famous eminent Buddhists has been cultivated themselves around Trandruk Monastery, including Masters Padmasambhava and Milarepa. This existence of relics is the major sights for the pilgrims. There is a famous bronze bell which is widely known in all through Tibet in Trandruk Monastery. The antique precious potteries and relics are still stored here.
Yumbu Lakhang: Meaning 'the palace on the leg of a female deer', located on the east bank of the Yarlong River southeast of Tsedang Town. Yumbu Lakhang, the castle perched dramatically on a pinnacle above the valley, is the oldest known dwelling in Tibet, reputedly the home of the Yarlong Kings. The view from the castle is awesome. O/N at Hotel in Tsedang (BB).
After breakfast you will be briefed about the day's program. Sightseeing begins as follows:
Samye Monastery: founded in 779 AD, is in a green valley among barren mountains surrounded by a village. Samye Monastery is one of the most imposing sights of Tibet. Built between 763 and 75 AD and modeled on the University of Otantapuri in India, it was planned as a representation of the universe. O/N at Hotel in Tsedang (BB)
Later after lunch we drive to Lhasa for overnight stay. O/N at Hotel in Lhasa (BB)
After an early breakfast, you will be escorted by your guide to the beautifully landscaped Drepung Monastery, the Jokhang temple and the Barkhor market.
Drepung Monastery: is a beautifully landscaped monastery where you can observe nuns and monks chanting and performing religious discourses
Jokhang Temple: A seventh-century geomantic temple at the heart of Lhasa is the most sacred temple in Tibet. It is considered to be a Power Place in the Tibetan region. Queen Bhrikuti, a Nepalese princess married to King Songtsen Gampo founded Jokhang Temple, and in recognition of Queen Bhrikuti the main gate of the temple faces west towards Nepal. Princes Bhrikuti was the reason behind the special friendship between Tibet and Nepal till date. The most impressive structure of the Jokhang Temple are the many chapels surrounding the temple.
Barkhor Market (Bazar): The most popular Barkhor Market (Bazaar) is a square where Tibetan handicraft items, Buddhist artifacts, carpets, paintings etc. are all in sale for your delight.At the end of the day your guide will escort you back to your hotel. Lhasa offers variety of Restaurant for both Lunch and
Dinners. O/N at Hotel in Lhasa (BB)
After an early breakfast, you will be escorted by your guide to the majestic Potala Palace, the Jewel Park and the Tibetan Museum.
Potala Palace: Also known as the "winter palace". The imposing structure of the palace dominates the landscape of Lhasa. is a 13th storied complex monument rising to a height of above 117m which houses 10,000 shrines and over 200,000 images and about 1000 rooms.As you are guided through the ancient chambers of the palace, you get to see Tibetan art at its best. The Potala Palace has a vast array of intricate Tibetan murals and beautiful statues. You will also get to view the tombs of the eight Dalai Lamas.
Norbulinka Palace: Also called the "Jewel Park", is a large open area about four kilometers to the west of Lhasa, and referred to as the summer palace of the Dalai Lama. Since the time of the Eight Dalai Lama, the park has been used as a summer palace, retreat and recreation area for the successive Dalai Lamas.
Tibet Museum: the official museum in Lhasa, inaugurated on October 5, 1999, it is the first large-sized modern museum in the Tibet Autonomous Region. It has a permanent collection related to the cultural history of Tibet. The museum has a collection of around 1000 artifacts, from examples of Tibetan art to architectural design throughout history such as Tibetan doors and beams. The museum focuses on the different dynastic periods of Tibetan history. The museum has many seals, books, official documents and gifts from Emperors. Tourists can see the original copy of the 17-point agreement signed in 1951 marking Tibet's re-unification with China.
After the tour your guide will escort you back to your hotel. O/N at hotel in Lhasa (BB)
Since only a limited number of visitors are allowed inside the Potala palace every day, the order of sightseeing places will be decided upon by your guide.
Today you will be taken on an excursion to one of the most beautiful places in Tibet. We drive 70km to Tsurphu monastery and then further continue approx. 230 km to Namtso Lake.
Tsurphu Monastery: the monastery which served as the traditional seat of the Karmapa. It is located in Gurum town, 70 km from Lhasa. The monastery is about 14,000 feet (4,300 m). It is built in the middle of the valley facing south with high mountains surrounding the monastery complex. Tsurphu was founded by the first Karmapa in 1159, he laid the foundation for an establishment of a seat there by making offerings to the local protectors. The monastery grew to hold 1000 monks. It was totally destroyed in 1966 during the Cultural Revolution but was rebuilt in 1980 by the 16th Karmapa.
Nam Tso Lake: In Tibetan, Nam Tso means 'Heavenly Lake.' It is one among the three holy lakes in Tibet. NamTso lake is the highest saltwater lake in Tibet Autonomous Region (TAR) at an altitude of 4718 m. It covers a vast area of about 740 square miles. The crystal-clear water of this lake and the scenic beauty of its surrounding are sure to leave you spellbound.
Noted: Opportunity to experience the Yak Ride (Yaks are found mostly over 4000m elevation and is the most important animal in Tibet) and see Tibetan Mastiff Dog in Khampa La pass (extra cost).
Offer "Lungta" and prayers flag (printed prayers for the peace and good health/happiness) together with your Tibetan Guide. Offering Lungta in high passes and temple is believed to bring good fortune and long life in Tibetan culture
After the tour your guide will escort you back to your Guest house. O/N at Guest House in Nam Tso (BB)
After breakfast, we shall embark on a day hike toward Tashi Do following shore of Namtso Lake and explore caves, Nomads tented house ride on a Yak and visit monastery. Return to Guest house. O/N Guest House (BB)
After breakfast we drive back to Lhasa. En-route visit Yampachen hot spring pool. O/N Hotel in Lhasa.
45 km northeast from Lhasa, Drak Yerpa the historic complex of caves and temples.
There are a number of small temples shrines and hermitages and the cliffs contain some of the earliest known meditation sites in Tibet, some dating back to pre-Buddhist times. Among the more famous are those traditionally connected with Songtsän Gampo (604–650 CE), (traditionally the 33rd king of the Yarlung Dynasty and first emperor of a united Tibet). His Tibetan queen, Monza Triucham, founded the Dra Yerpa temple here.
He and his two foreign-born queens are said to have meditated in the 'Peu Marsergyi Temple' and in the 'Chogyel Puk', and to have discovered 'self-originated' symbols of the Buddha-body, speech and mind. Padmasambhava, or Guru Rinpoche (late 8th to early 9th century), meditated and practiced tantric yoga with his yogini Yeshe Tsogyal here, and to have spent 7 months in meditation in the 'Dawa Puk', which is considered to be one of his three most important places of attainment.
After this, Yerpa became one of the three most important centres of meditation and retreat in Central Tibet. Several of Guru Rinpoche's disciples are also said to have meditated here. Atisha (982 – 1054 CE) preached extensively in the valley. Atisha's hermitage is in ruins but had 300 monks in the 19th century and was the summer quarters for the Ramoche Monastery (the Upper Tantric College).
Moving along the Friendship Highway, you drive past Khamba La, at 4970 meter with a brief halt to savor majestic views of Yamdrok-Tso Lake and Mt. Nojin Kangsang, standing at 7191m. On turning westwards, you come across another pass, Karo La at 5045m. After driving 265 km, beautifully landscaped Tibetan villages become visible as you enter the town of Gyantse, an old Tibetan Town against a backdrop of magnificent 14th-15th century fortresses and temples. Here we will visit the Khumbum Monastery and Pelkhor Chode Temple. O/N at Hotel in Gyantse (BB)
Khumbum monastery: is a large gold-domed Stupa and its many small chapels house an impressive array of Tibetan Buddhist murals. It is an architectural masterpiece built in the style of 108-sided Mandela. It is the most revered Stupa in Tibet and houses 112 chapels of which only 23 are open to the public.
Pelkhor Chode Temple: which is a fort dating from the 14th century. From there you can enjoy the spectacular views of Gyantse and the surrounding Nyang Chu Valley.
After exploring Gyantse, you will take a 90 km drive to Shigatse. Having driven to an average altitude of 3900 m, you find yourself at Shigatse, second largest city of Tibet. Tashilumpho Monastery being one of the largest functioning monasteries in Tibet is a major attraction of Shigatse. Enrotue to Shigatse we visit the Shalu monastery.
Shalu Monastery: 'Shalu' means 'new bud' in Tibetan Language. Shalu Monastery, situated 20 kilometers (12 miles) southeast of Shigatse, is a perfect combination of Han and Tibet architectural styles. In 1320, it was administered by Master Purdain Renqen Zhuba, a renowned religious scholar who compiled the Tenjur sutra, one of the classic woks of Tibetan Budhism. It is said that about 3,800 monks were drawn to his teaching. Therefore, the monastery became a holy site for many worshipers. Since many Chinese artisans were assigned to reconstruction work, it integrated both Han and Tibetan architectural styles.
An interesting anecdote lies behind this interesting name. A monk named Jigzun Xerab Qoinnyai wanted to build a monastery to spread doctrines of Tibetan Buddhism. He consulted his teacher about the construction site. His teachers suggested a site where a shooting arrow fell. The arrow fell in a new bud, hence the name.
Shigatse the capital of Tsang Province was one of the first towns to be visited by westerners due to close distance with the Indian border. Here in Shigatse you will be visiting Tashilumpho Monastery. This monastery is one of the largest functioning monasteries in Tibet and there is much to explore within its high surrounding walls. There are about 39 amazing chapels inside including the huge Maitreya Chapel coated with gold; its workmanship certainly impresses everyone.After detailed visit of Shigatse, we will visit the local markets for shopping and local sightseeing. O/N at Hotel in Shigatse (BB)
Today you will traverse along the Friendship Highway amidst picturesque landscape driving past small town of Lhatse and Gyantso La pass at 5220m. As the route opens into plains, many monasteries and camps of nomadic herders become visible en route to Shegar. En-route you will Visit Sakya Monastery which is a "must-see" for all the visitors to Tibet. It is the central monastery of Sakyapa sect of Tibetan Buddhism. Its walls were painted in red, white and grey strips, which represent Manjushree, Avalokiteshvara and Vajrapani respectively. O/N at Hotel in Shegar (BB).
You will drive past Tingri crossing Lalung La pass at 5050m and Thong La pass at 5150m. Savoring the enchanting views of the surrounding peaks of Shishapangma, Cho Oyu, Menlungtse and Gauri Shankar, Melarapa Cave before Nyalam you descend from the arid Tibetan Plateau to verdant Zhangmu on the Nepali and Tibet border.. After driving for 300 km, you find yourself amidst the lush and verdant vegetation of Zhangmu at 2300m Zhangmu is a small border town teetering on a precipitous hillside. It serves as the main port of entry into Tibet when coming overland to and from Nepal. O/N at Hotel in Zhangmu (BB)
After breakfast we drive down to the Chinese Immigration, Zhangmu. The Friendship Bridge across Bhote Koshi River brings you closer to Immigration Control in Kodari where you will part with your Tibetan guide and driver and walk across the river to meet your Nepalese escort who will drive you to Kathmandu. After 5 hours of driving for 123 km along Bungy jump site, Dhulikhel you finally arrive in Kathmandu.The Nepali foothills and the greenery will make the drive pleasant and enjoyable.
Cost Inclusion / Exclusion
- Twin sharing accommodation as per the itinerary on bed & breakfast (BB) basis.
- English speaking Tibetan Guide.
- Transportation as per the itinerary by necessary vehicle.
- Monastery entrance fee.
- Tibet Travel permits.
- Emergency mineral water in the vehicle.
- Emergency portable oxygen cylinder in the vehicle.
- Service of Porterage while crossing Friendship Bridge into Nepal (Nepal-China border).
- Trip briefing by Tibet expert & entertain question.
- Trip Information pack.
- Gift pack (prayer flag or string of flag & paper prayer Lungta).
Note: Offer Prayer flag or Lungta (string of prayer flag) in high passes, temple for good fortune or long life.
- Tibet Visa Fee (Acceptable in US$ cash only).
- Airfare: Kathmandu – Lhasa (Fare as per availability).
- Travel insurance.
- Expenses during any rescue operation.
- Transportation: Kodari - Kathmandu or vice versa.
- Nepal re-entry visa fee.
- Lunch and Dinner in hotels.
- Alcoholic beverages & bar bills.
- All expenses of personal nature, phone calls, laundry etc.
- Gratuity to staff.
- Services of Porterage and other vehicles in between in case of landslides and other natural calamities beyond our control and expenses incurred during rescue services.
- Additional portable oxygen cylinder (US$ 20 per bottle).
- Services not mentioned herein.
General Info
General Information:
Tibet, standing at an average elevation of 16,500ft above sea level, till today, still remains one of the most interesting, mysterious, enchanting, remote and in many of the areas still underdeveloped. Besides being the highest plateau in the world; its transformation from a warring and aggressive to a peaceful, pious and gentle people by the influence of Buddhism, is very amazing. Its isolation nearly till the second half of the twentieth century; its diverse climatic and geographical conditions strongly attract people of all types from historians, adventurers, pilgrims and so on.
A trip to Tibet is more of an adventurous and spiritual for those who believe Tibet as a Power Place. Due to its high altitude, those travelers with a history of heart, lung or anemic problems should consult their doctor before considering a visit.
Overland travel between Kathmandu and Tibet is an incredible journey where you get to see the world's highest plateau and the Himalayan Ranges in all its glory before you. The trip becomes more wonderful and amazing as you pass through high winding roads and passes.
It's most important that visitors should understand that Tibet was only opened to tourism since the mid eighties and you should be ready for a bit of adventure regarding hotel accommodation and other services especially en-route.
Hotels En-Route:
Budget hotels en-route are very basic provide dormitories accommodation and common toilets. Most of the hotel staff do not speak English. However, many popular deluxe category hotel of international standard have employed English speaking staffs, many of them are from Nepal. There are several continental restaurants available in Lhasa.
Overland Transport:
We use Land Cruiser 4500 (New Model), van, mini bus, coaster and deluxe coaches as necessary. All vehicles have air-conditioned.
Flight: Air China is the only airline fly between Lhasa – Kathmandu, this is the only airline in the world that fly over Mt. Everest, make sure you take a left hand seat while flying to Lhasa and vice versa to view the majestic Himalayas including Everest.
Taking photographs is prohibited in sensitive areas like in Check Posts/Army Areas. There is an extra charge if you wish to take photographs inside Monasteries. Sometimes, Monasteries charge extra for each different section of the same Monastery. If you want to take a photograph of an individual please ask him or her first, Carry plenty of rolls of films and batteries.
Road Condition:
The road from Kathmandu to Kodari (Nepal-China Border) is quite narrow but most of it is tarmac. The driving in central Tibet is much more comfortable since roads from Zhangmu to Lhasa are fully pitched except in some area between Zhangmmu and Shigatse which is under construction and about to be completed. From Zhangmu to Nyalam it is one of the most mountainous with many twists and turns, you will enjoy breathtaking views including water falls pouring down to the river Bhotekosi. The landscape changes from green forest to barren Tibetan plateau or vice versa.
Toilet En-Route:
Toilet en-route Zhangmu to Lhasa during drive is a problem for ladies, you will require going to toilet often due to required consumption of water, it is best not to use common toilet, we advise using open air toilet which is available. One can go behind the rock or off the road. We suggest asking driver to stop the vehicle for toilet in less populated areas before stopping for a meal in town where clean toilets are not available.
Tibetan and Chinese are highly spoken in Tibet Autonomous region, in remote areas more majority speaks Tibetan Language however, there are different Tibetan dialogues used.
Traditional meal of Tibetan is Tsampa (roasted Barley flour) and butter tea. There are not so many choices of restaurant in small towns. However, there are many Tibetan, Chinese and continental restaurants in big cities such as Lhasa, Shigatse, Tsedang. Mostly you get yak meat, sheep meat sometime pork.
Some recommended restaurants:
Lhasa: Kyichu restaurant, Snow Land restaurant, Lhasa Kitchen, Third Eye, Tashi Restaurant, Crazy Yak, Duniya
Bars: 52beer bar, Last Bus Bar
Shigatse: Mandala Restaurant, Tashi restaurant
Entertainment in Lhasa: There are discotheques, nightclubs, bars, karaoke, well organized spa facilities, Nangla (cultural show) with traditional music.
Exchange Rate, ATM and Credit Card:
The exchange rate of - approx. US$1 = Yuan 6. Banks in Tibet/China are closed on Saturday and Sunday. Regarding the budget for your tour, it is entirely up to you how much you want to spend with shopping etc. However, we advise you to carry at least US$150 per person for a week. Major currencies such as US Dollar, Euro, UK sterling can be exchanged at the Bank of China branches in Zhangmu, Shigatse and Lhasa. There are ATM Machines in Lhasa and Shigatse. Big stores, restaurants and hotels accept major credit cards.
While entering Tibet by overland through Nepal border, you can change with local moneychanger in Zhangmu but consult with your guide for reliability of the money changer in order to avoid any counterfeit notes.
Communication from Tibet:
There are internet centers and private phone booths in Lhasa, Gyantse and Shigatse, it is best to ask your tour guide, it is usually written INTERNET CENTER on their signboards. Nowadays, there are Wi-Fi facilities in most of the hotels and restaurants in major cities.
Local Transport:
Taxi is available, charges Yuan 10 within the city centre. There are three wheeler pushbikes as well for short distances. You will have to make sure you have someone with you who speaks Chinese while taking taxi or any local transport or you must know the Chinese and Tibetan name of the your destination.
Electricity: 220 volt.
Passport Size Photographs:
Please make sure that you carry some passport size photographs in case it is needed.
The agency reserves the right to amend the itinerary at the last minute without prior notice as per the local conditions.
Acclimatization & Altitude Sickness:
Due to the very high altitude - over 12,000 ft, acclimatization is very important. You may be likely to experience some of the minor symptoms and discomfort of altitude sickness (headaches, mild nauseas, loss of appetite) until your body adjusts to the elevation. This can take from a few hours to a couple of days depending on the individual. Do not exert yourself and drink plenty of non-alcoholic liquids. It is very important to drink at least 4-5 liters of liquids daily to avoid any altitude sickness; this is probably the best remedy for AMS.
Do not forget - the common effects of altitude such as:
- You may feel breathlessness on exertion; some headache is treatable by aspirin.
- May be some difficulty sleeping and a little loss of appetite.
- You might also wake up suddenly at night trying to catch your breath. Do not panic! Your metabolism has simply slowed down.
- You may also experience an exaggerated thumping headache, which will not go away, breathless even at rest, extreme nausea.
- The lack of oxygen in the system will first affect either the brain (HACE - Height Altitude Cerebral Edema) causing loss of physical and mental coordination OR the lungs (HAPE - Height Altitude Pulmonary Edema), coughing up persistent sputum or both.
- Do not drink any alcohol specially on the first two days of the tour. It seriously impairs the ability to acclimatize, and confuses the symptoms of AMS.
The following medication has been found to be helpful:
Diamox the common name for Acetazolamide originally developed as a diuretic, but pragmatically found to aid acclimatization available in Kathmandu pharmacies. Some people feel it is 'cheating', but as trekking at altitude is not a competition and you are here to enjoy it to altitude, not just mask the symptoms. It will make you pee more as intended, and possibly give you a tingly feeling in your fingers, but is understood to have no more serious side effects. Taking it is entirely down to personal choice, but if you do decide to use it as a preventative we have found that a half a 250 mg tablet works just as well as a whole one and minimizes the side effects, each morning and evening, from the night before the trek through to the start of the descent from the highest point.
Oxygen Cylinder:
We provide reserve oxygen cylinder in our private tours. There will be minimum charges for using it.
The length of time of drive everyday may vary from 3 hours to 8 hours including lunch, tea break depending upon the condition of the road; you will notice continuous construction of road in many places. There are many check posts en-route specially while driving outside Lhasa. There are Speed limit rules also and very strict monitoring on vehicles moving on the highway.
Political Situation:
The political situation in Tibet is highly sensitive. You would be well advised not to discuss or talk or take anything of political with the local people that may aggravate the situation. Confine yourself to the interests of the tour.
Single Supplement:
Please note that all tours are organized on twin sharing basis. If you want to stay in a single room than you will be required to pay single supplement, and you must inform us before the start of the tour so as to enable us to book the room in advance, otherwise it will be difficult to get rooms. Hotels in Tibet normally do not have triple sharing room.
We always use our own Guides employed by our office. Guiding is considered the most important factor to ensure quality services. Tourism is still considered new to Tibet compare to many Asian countries, so Guides in Tibet do not get enough exposure, Tibetan Guides have limited English and you may not expect a fluent explanation about culture and religion or any other academic topics however Guide will try to do best to their capacity. Your frequent questioning will encourage him/her to explain more in details.
Immigration Formalities:
Zhangmu Immigration is the main immigration point while entering Tibet from Nepal by overland. Gongkar airport is the main immigration where you have to go through the formalities while flying into Tibet.
It is customary to give US$75 each to Guide and Driver per week. It is not compulsory to tip, only if you believe staff have done remarkably good job putting extra effort to make your trip enjoyable.
NOTE: I suggest you to buy few prayer flags and Khadas (scarf) from Kathmandu to offer to your guide and driver upon arrival.
It can easily be bought in local market in Lhasa as well to offer in monasteries in Tibet.
Cold Season (September – March)
- Thermal underwear, Down Jacket, Warm Trousers and sweaters, Woollen Shirts full sleeves.
- Hat (ear cover), Gloves water proof, Woolen socks
Warm season (April – August)
- Comfortable trousers, T-shirt, Windproof jacket, Fleece jacket, Scarf
Normal checklist:
- Casual wear and comfortable walking shoes, Sleeping bag (if you are trekking or using guest houses)
- Bring all your films, Cosmetics, Personal toilet items that you will need from home, Wind breaker
- Sun hat, Food snacks along way (power bars), Water Bottle, Sunglass, Swiss knife, Sun Cream
- Toilet paper, Flash light batteries, Day pack camera and enough film, Mask : roads can be dusty sometimes
- Rain Jacket, Personal medical kit, Recommended Guide Book (Foot Print by Gyurme Dorje)
- Kathmandu Lhasa Road Map (easily available in Thamel)
Do and don't:
- Wear proper dress code during visit holy area, remove your hat, do not interrupt prayer
- Do not point with your finger to any holy object
- No antique are allowed to take from Tibet
- China time is 8 hours ahead of GMT
- Always keep copy of your visa or permit with yourself.
- Do not take photograph without asking
- Do not talk about any sensitive issues
- Important Tibetan words are Tashi Delek which means "greetings", Thucheche means "thank you".
- Use always both hand whenever you give or take anything.
- Do not touch, walk over, or sit on any religious texts, sacred objects or prayer flags.
- Tibetan people do not eat horse, dog, or donkey, as well as fish (in some areas). While in Tibet, you should follow local dietary restrictions.
- It is not polite to clap your palms and spit behind the Tibetan people.
- Tibetan people stretch out their tongue to say hello to you. Also it is a courtesy to put their hands palm in front of breast.
- Do not smoke in monasteries. Also it is not permitted to touch or photograph Buddha statues and religious articles.
- In addition, when walking around the monastery, you should always walk in a clockwise direction (with the exception of Bon temples).
- When walking around dagobas, monasteries or Mani piles, please go around them in a clockwise direction (with the exception of Bon sites), without crossing them.
- Eagles are sacred birds in the eyes of the Tibetan people. Do not disturb them, drive them away or injure them.
- You should also not disturb sheep or cows decorated with red, green or yellow cloth.
- It is advisable to offer Khada ( silk scarf to anyone you meet for the first time)
- It is advisable to offer Prayer flag or Lungta sacred script (string of prayer flag) in high passes, temple for good fortune or long life.
- Note: We will offer you each prayers flag before you leave for Tibet as a gift.
Have a great time !
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