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Go to: Arriving in the Northern Rivers | Moving in | Changing land-use | Dairying | Farm work | Markets | Off-farm income | Expansion | Succession | Organic farming | Bush Regeneration
Organic farming
I wasn't going to use any chemicals in the farming system even though I had been trained in agriculture, even before my training I was, I got trained because I was interested in being an organic farmer and working without chemicals is one part of that, so and at the time, well, I had seen the ravages of the previous attempts with large machinery and not having any money for that…I didn't really think that was going to be a viable way to go either and I wanted to use the livestock as much as possible so I started off fencing the perimeter which I did, and then fencing internally so that there was paddocks that the stock could be confined to and I gradually went through the paddocks over a few years to get to that point.
In the region I knew of organic growing groups from the early 70s when I became involved with those groups but it wasn't until the early 1980s I found a group in this region. Communications at that time were very different to what they are now and you basically had to bump into somebody somewhere and a lot of those connections actually came through some of the community focal points such as the Terania Creek protests and the development of The Channon Market – a couple of focal activities where you actually could bump into people of a similar mindset.
And where we are now, the Lismore Organic Markets, they're similar. So I was fairly much focussed on the task at hand anyway. And the milk distribution that I was doing at the time, I had already started up with the Fundamental Foods that was started by some of those people from The Channon in Lismore. It was down in Conway Street at the time and I used to take my milk in old wine flagons into them. People like Dailan Pugh, who put that together and then Santos Trading Company in Mullumbimby when we moved over to Federal they'd changed the old Sunflower Cafe which was put together in that town by alternative people from the Main Arm area and that was moving from just being a cafe to a wholefoods and changed its name to Santos Trading Company. I started selling there. But really I didn't hang around in town very much, normally I'd be dropping off and picking up hay or grain or something for the stock and heading home. Buying a new pair of pliers or something.
From the late 1980s the farming groups like Tweed Richmond Organic Producers Organisation, of which I was a foundation member, were actually more of a group of people that had moved to this district to actually farm organically in the region and so we had that focus in the broader region, but there was still that proportion of people that actually were looking to maintain agriculture and productivity that do it in a new a improved way. So that group was able then to be able to speak more broadly to anyone that was interested, including existing farmers, new farmers and people that come to the district that might be interested in taking up some farming and at the same time with the TAFE side of things.
In May 1991 I was teaching Organic Farming Course through TAFE – official commission to teach that with the name Organic Farming. That had been a bit of a struggle because after I had come into TAFE, within 12 months, the Head of School who was absent at the interview said "how did this guy ever get into our system and let's get him out". During that time there was actually… got 50% of students, particularly in the production horticulture area, asking about organic farming, so that was a strong impetus to be able to then look for something that was not being done as part of another course or under another heading to actually say 'well this is an organic farming course'. That was quite successful and TAFE actually gave it accreditation state-wide in 1993 and it's had various incarnations and sort of developments over time to the point now where we offer a Diploma in Organic Production.
Outside TAFE there was these groups like Troppo, but in their own regions working through community and adult education centres that were starting to pop up in particular. That had been the case in this region as well. A fellow, name of Pastor Roy Harrison actually was running organic farming courses with the community education centre in Alstonville but this was the step into commercial production and then many of those courses were.
An organic farm is a farm. You don't need anything new there's government infrastructure there to facilitate on farm and off farm training that benefits to the employer in terms of employing a trainee are there for you as much as they are for the chemical farmer down the road. You no longer the secondary inhabitant of the farming community in fact more and more you are being recognised that potentially the way that everybody has to go as fast as possible.
Particularly over the last eight years with another land care group called Soil Care we've made that…. where a lot of the problem has been in the past that is most farmers are frightened of the word organic or the tools in chemical farming systems are not allowed in organic farming systems. Organic is "I can't go there, everything I do is not allowed". But what we term now biological farming doesn't have the word organic in is straight away so they're like "oh I am interested". A lot of farmers if they believe, or find out how to manage in another way, they'll take the other way. They're not that many of them that are so entrenched that they can't live without using chemicals. Most of them if there's another way to do something and you get the result you want then they can learn how to do that and they do it. And then that will be definitely a benefit, in terms of it will be a benefit to them, a benefit to the environment and then if we can actually get that back to the point where a proportion of those say well in terms of market place recognition or I now feel empowered I'm not afraid of organic it can go the whole way. A number have been doing that. I think that is really a rolling ball that's getting a lot of its own momentum. And 12:53 where that momentum is able to carry through with …there are problems they're seeing that big a picture they're saying oh we can get through those problems. Instead of saying oh that didn't work we'll go back to what we were doing. There's actually enough solid behind it that they say oh maybe we've got to find the way to solve that problem rather than say it can't be done.
So that's very positive and what it means is that farmers are more resilient, they don't get hit when the oil prices go up and urea spikes. Their bottom line is not blown out of all proportion for instance and their soil resource increases so it actually less reliant on those inputs from out of the farm and less problems with diseases and pests you know a whole lot of things come to them which help their ability to stay on the land as a viable operation.
On our own land and of working with hundreds of farmers through TAFE and through Soil Care so all of those things and the broader community is benefitting because water and air quality is improved they've actually got access to better quality food without the things they don't need in it and more of the things that they do need in it so progression over time from the farmers not knowing and the marketplace not knowing what organic farming is and the community not knowing what organic farming is to the point where it's becoming the norm within the community to have an increasing percentage of farmers leaning to these techniques and consumers thinking it out. There's definitely been a progression over time that I've experienced and in part…
The opportunity to be part of that change has been a great satisfaction in terms of validating the things that we've done on the farm and off the farm over that time. You can look back and think well that was you know not, my life is not over, but that was a good life to have had.
A lot of it is to do with providing the opportunity for the children to maintain and increase involvement there but also just in terms of the farm itself to work out ways of increasing the natural…..the balance of natural environment in the farming systems. I'm not afraid of weeds so but I don't particularly hate them I see them as plants that are fulfilling a function at the time but I would like to actually have areas of the property that we've worked on with regeneration that I'd love to expand that , to have the time and resources to expand that. And there's certainly plenty more farming to be done in terms of managing the crops that are there on an ongoing basis so getting that balance between getting a greater opportunity to develop the farm as a part of the natural environment itself and where it's not suitable to farm then let's try and get it back to the pristine environment before anyone started farming here.


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PleaseContinue Watching As This Amazing Site Continually Evolves Online Home Study
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HOME SERVICE VALIDATION: The practice of contractor vetting which incorporates use of the "HOME SERVICE VALIDATION SYSTEM."
SERVICE VALIDATION FORM: The official contractor vetting form [BELOW] which private home residents physically hand to contractors to take with them for entering all information which residents will use to learn the truth about such contractors before making a decision .
HOME SERVICE VALIDATION SYSTEM: A strict, non-conventional system for U.S. private home residents for legally gathering information from contractor candidates looking towork on their properties and from various legal sources in order to make informed decisions about such candidates.
Audio Recommendation For Blow -By-Blow Understanding Of The "Design" Of The "SERVICE VALIDATION FORM"
Home Service Validation system
This vital website introduces to you what is regarded as the "Nation's First Standardized Contractor Screening System." "Service Validation" is new vernacular for "contractor vetting" or "due diligence." What is introduced here is an entirely new aggressive approach to screening contractors who are candidates for residential projects. This is also free (without charge/solicitation) to U.S. private home heads.
Major Benefit: This system enables you to work more responsibly and efficiently towards scouting, selecting, and hiring only the BEST contractors for your special home maintenance and improvement projects.
"Home Service Validation System" is a private "Free-Style" online home study course created under HGRBS auspices for the benefit of private home decision makers residing in the United States. This site features the radical ultra-conservative system, of the same name, for safer and wiser screening of private home maintenance and improvement contractors.
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FOR ANY QUESTIONS OR CHALLENGES YOU MAY HAVE IN THE PROCESS, PLEASE "CONTACT" US USING THE HOVER LINK ABOVE (There is also a "CONTACT" link for your convenience at the bottom of each page).
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Please Click On Image Below To View, Download, & Make Hard Copies Of Your "SERVICE VALIDATION FORM"
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subset: commoncrawl


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5 Organizing Tips
Here are my 5 Non-Negotiable Tips for Ideal Sorting and Organizing with you. Once you've decluttered and streamlined your inventory and to-do's you are ready to sort and organize.
Tip #1: Never organize before you declutter.
You don't want to waste time sorting and organizing things that you are going to let go of, right? If you need a refresher, read my post: "5 Critical Reasons to Declutter Your Stuff and To-Do List".
Tip #2: Always sort and organize into broad categories first.
We call this a "macro sort". Once you have your broad categories you can "micro sort". Be careful not to create too many categories. Sometimes clients want to over-label and we find folders with only one item in them. This is a sign that the category was probably to small. This tip applies to everything from kitchen utensils to clothing, linens, and your paperwork and files.
Tip #3: Don't go out and buy a bunch of organizing products before you declutter, sort and organize.
People mistakenly go out and buy pretty containers and bins, fancy file folders, label makers, etc. and think that will help them get organized. It's actually the opposite because the products don't get you organized, they are intended to create homes for organized items. Get organized first and then you will see what and how much you need and whether or not you need to spend any money at all.
Tip #4: Organize the way that makes sense to you.
One size doesn't fit all and that includes organizing systems. There are some great systems out there for filing, shelving, etc. but they don't work for everyone. If you are not color-oriented, don't both color coding. If you don't think to look for things alphabetically, consider creating file systems that order items by what you use and need most frequently. Place papers needed less frequently towards the back. The same for clothing. Maybe organizing by color doesn't enable you to wear more of your clothes more creatively. Organizing your clothing by outfit rather than color can solve that problem.
Tip #5: Remember the most important step in organizing is maintenance.
Declutter, sort and organize your things on a regular basis. It is natural for things to slip back when you are busy, when an emergency occurs, or when you travel. Schedule a little time (about 15 minutes) at the end of each day to re-organize. Schedule more time (30-60 minutes) each month to re-organize on a deeper level.


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Fresh Love Brewed
Love as a cup of coffee.
Ah love, times when it will run hot.
Sometimes cold.
When times felt, cooling too quick.
We may be warm it up.
Or reach out for a fresh brew.
Sweeten it to make better.
Know the mixture of the two.
Find it just right.
Enjoyment made for the two.
Keep it fresh.
Be around with your love.
Show your Love you care.
Hold her hand, the perfect pair.
To bring together.
Keeping our love fresh brewed.
We men can think of many ways.
Keep them smiling, not blue.
Have her tell her friends.
No one better than you.
Show her you could teach Don Juan.
Teach him a thing or two.
Show her that you love her.
Show her you need her.
Tell her you are one lucky dude.
Always keep your love fresh brewed.
Because here I am without you
Together Again Big Fight
Loved the present she gave to me
Two best joys while drinking coffee
Feel the heat coming from my new D cup
Even warmer seeing my love as I look up
Drink fast, once more, back to bed go we


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Wednesday, August 17, 2011
Watch the Official Dota 2 Tournament Live!
Dota 2 Championships Main Page
6 comments:
Dota 2. Free to play. I'm calling it.ReplyDelete
You know what? I didn't even think of that, but that seems like it would be a good idea on Valve's part. Make the game free, and then i bet they'd charge a small fee for different heroes.ReplyDelete
Oh, its one of those tower defense games...?ReplyDelete
I want to say that the technical genre name is MOBA- Multi-player Online Battle Arena. You choose a hero unit, then it sort of proceeds a bit like an RTS, sort of. I must admit that my understanding is not that great, and i think John Randall could elaborate a bit better, but he's not registered here!ReplyDelete
I remember playing one very similar to this...but, hell, if i can remember the name of it. It was mildly enjoyable. I can see how this can be a good free to play game, and you have to purchase heroes and shit.ReplyDelete
I think DOTA was the origianl, and then Heroes of Newerth and League of Legends spun off of that. I agree that a free to play model seems to make the most senseReplyDelete


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PRN: Justin Rose, Tiger Woods, Charles Howell III and Bubba Watson First off at 2012 Tavistock Cup
Justin Rose, Tiger Woods, Charles Howell III and Bubba Watson First off at 2012 Tavistock Cup [16-March-2012] ORLANDO, Florida, March 17, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- The pairings are set for both days of the 2012 Tavistock Cup that returns to Lake Nona Golf & Country Club March 19 and 20.
17/mar/2012 02:01:12 PR Newswire Turismo Contatta l'autore
Justin Rose, Tiger Woods, Charles Howell III and Bubba Watson First off at 2012 Tavistock Cup
ORLANDO, Florida, March 17, 2012 /PRNewswire/ --
The pairings are set for both days of the 2012 Tavistock Cup that returns to Lake Nona Golf & Country Club March 19 and 20.
The ninth installment of the event features 24 of the top touring professional members of Albany, Isleworth Golf & Country Club, Lake Nona and Queenwood Golf Club.
The tournament's first-day pairings feature better ball stroke play. Each team will post three 18-hole better ball scores. The team with the lowest cumulative score will lead after the first round.
DAY 1 10:50 a.m Justin Rose & Tiger Woods (Team Albany) Charles Howell III & Bubba Watson (Team Isleworth) 11:05 a.m. Ben Curtis & Peter Hanson (Team Lake Nona) Soren Kjeldsen & Paul McGinley (Team Queenwood) 11:20 a.m. Tim Clark & Ernie Els (Team Albany) Thomas Bjorn & Adam Scott (Team Queenwood) 11:35 a.m. Sean O'Hair & Bo Van Pelt (Team Isleworth) Ross Fisher & Retief Goosen (Team Lake Nona) 11:50 a.m. Robert Allenby & Daniel Chopra (Team Isleworth) David Howell & Tom Lewis (Team Queenwood) 12:05 p.m. Trevor Immelman & Ian Poulter (Team Albany) Graeme McDowell & Gary Woodland (Team Lake Nona)
The second-round pairings feature individual stroke play. Each team will count six 18-hole individual scores. The team with the lowest score in relation to par at the end of both rounds will be crowned World Golf and Country Club Champion.
Day 2 10:50 a.m. Tim Clark (Team Albany) Robert Allenby (Team Isleworth) Ben Curtis (Team Lake Nona) Paul McGinley (Team Queenwood) 11:05 a.m. Ernie Els (Team Albany) Charles Howell III (Team Isleworth) Retief Goosen (Team Lake Nona) Soren Kjeldsen (Team Queenwood) 11:20 a.m. Trevor Immelman (Team Albany) Daniel Chopra (Team Isleworth) Ross Fisher (Team Lake Nona) David Howell (Team Queenwood) 11:35 a.m. Justin Rose (Team Albany) Bo Van Pelt (Team Isleworth) Peter Hanson (Team Lake Nona) Adam Scott (Team Queenwood) 11:50 a.m. Ian Poulter (Team Albany) Bubba Watson (Team Isleworth) Gary Woodland (Team Lake Nona) Tom Lewis (Team Queenwood) 12:05 p.m Tiger Woods (Team Albany) Sean O'Hair (Team Isleworth) Graeme McDowell (Team Lake Nona) Thomas Bjorn (Team Queenwood)
Each year, Tavistock Cup contestants play for prize money, team hole-in-one prizes and the title of World Golf and Country Club Champion. But the tournament also exists to raise money for many worthy causes. The Tavistock Cup has generated more than $7 million for charity in its short nine-year history. In addition to various player charities, a number of major beneficiaries include The First Tee, Orlando Minority Youth Golf Association, M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, The UCF Foundation and the Sanford-Burnham Medical Research Institute.
The Tavistock Cup has become one of the most unique golfing events of the year as tickets are not sold to the public. Only club members, sponsors, designated charities and invited guests are able to attend the two-day event. Once in, there are no ropes separating the world's best players from the spectators.
The tournament will be broadcast live on the Golf Channel in the U.S., Canada, China and Japan and airs on international affiliates throughout the United Kingdom, Australia, Latin America and South Africa. TavistockCup.com will feature real-time live scoring of the 2012 Tavistock Cup.
Tavistock Group is an international private investment company founded by Joe Lewis. With investments in more than 200 companies across 15 countries, Tavistock Group's investment portfolio includes: life sciences, sports teams and sporting events, manufacturing and distribution, oil, gas and energy, financial services, restaurants, commercial properties, private luxury residential properties, resort properties and master-planned real estate developments. For more information, visit http://www.tavistock.com.
Albany is a new luxury resort community created by Tavistock Group, Tiger Woods and Ernie Els. Nestled among approximately 600 oceanfront acres on the southwestern end of New Providence in The Bahamas, Albany is conveniently located seven minutes and five miles from Nassau's international airport. Albany features an array of residential offerings and amenities for all members of the family, including a well-appointed boutique hotel, a 71-slip mega-yacht marina, an Ernie Els-designed golf course, a fitness center and spa, an adult pool and bar, a family water park, a kids' clubhouse and casual and fine dining restaurants. Albany's deep-water marina is being designed and built to aesthetically rival the great resort ports of the world. For information, visit http://www.albanybahamas.com.
Nestled amongst the Butler Chain of Lakes in southwest Orlando, Isleworth Golf & Country Club is a 600-acre private residential community with more than seven miles of shoreline and a championship golf course. Conceived by Arnold Palmer, designed by Ed Seay and enhanced by Steve Smyers, Isleworth's course features generous, undulating and fast greens and is consistently ranked one of the longest and toughest in Florida. Isleworth is home to an 89,000-square-foot Mediterranean-style clubhouse where members have access to multiple dining venues and a fitness center. Members also enjoy tennis facilities, a year-round children's program, concierge services and 24-hour gated security. Isleworth's natural setting lends the perfect backdrop for its collection of monumental sculptures. Elegant estate homes, priced from ! $2 million to more than $20 million, are afforded commanding golf to water views. For more information, visit http://www.isleworth.com.
Offering world-class education, exceptional family experiences and outstanding amenities, Lake Nona Golf & Country Club has delivered the highest quality of living in Central Florida for more than 25 years. A vibrant, international population of members and residents enjoy an active lifestyle along with a full social calendar for recreation, celebration and entertainment. Lake Nona's Tom Fazio-designed championship golf course is world-ranked and has been a regular host of the PGA TOUR-sanctioned Tavistock Cup. Lake Nona also features a newly renovated fitness center, guest lodge, tennis courts and pool, year-round children's programming, as well as a trio of pristine lakes providing freshwater fishing and boating opportunities. Just outside the gates of this private sanctuary lie numerous parks and trails, diverse workspaces, as well as forthcoming retail and entertainment choices beside a cluster of hos! pitals, universities and research institutions setting new benchmarks in medical education, patient care and scientific research. For more information, visit http://www.lakenona.com.
Queenwood Golf Club is a traditional private golf club nestled in the heart of the rolling Surrey countryside near London. Founded by American entrepreneur Frederick D. Green, Queenwood features a heathland course, extraordinary clubhouse facilities and a limited membership. Queenwood's course is the creation of David Kidd, widely known for his work at Bandon Dunes in Oregon. Providing sophisticated tranquility for members and their guests, Queenwood's clubhouse offers a wide array of services available throughout the year, including fine dining experiences and luxurious guestrooms. For more information, visit http://www.queenwood.co.uk.


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I've just spent three weeks nursing my mother while she recovered from acute renal failure. Our kidneys filter our toxins and clean our blood. Our mind uses our body as
This year we celebrated Thanksgiving on the Saturday. With the unreliability and current mayhem of Southern Rail, there was no guarantee that Mike would make it home from London in
I came across the work of A.R. Ammons in my early twenties or so—this would have been the early nineties, and I was transfixed on his voice, especially in terms
Part One I want to talk about the artist's inevitable split between Creative Self and Ordinary Self. The idea of a double persona has long been a fascination of
Week One So how and why did Backlash Press begin? In short, it began with the clarity that arrives after extreme disappointment. Three times my novel, The Book of Dirt,
Lately, I have been thinking about phantoms, not ghosts or correlated phenomenon, rather the tones inside a piece of artwork or a written text that feel unexplained, yet alluded to,
To be honest, BACKLASH PRESS started on a rock quarry cliff, somewhere in Iowa, when Gretchen Heffernan and I were in school at the University of Iowa, some 18 years


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Im buying a new set of 35 spline axles for my Nine inch.Im up around the 1200hp mark in a 632BBC with a 2700Lbs car.Im thinking about Mark williams but also Strange are on the back of my mind. Are Mark Williams hi-torque axles really worth the extra $200usd over the Strange Hy-tuff axles.Let me know what you guys think????????
World's #1 Racing & Performance Classifieds


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Here are some reviews for the work of Happy Ghosts. As with all reviews, you have got to take the good with the bad (and with the Happy Ghosts we get good ones, bad ones, good ones with bad things in it, bad ones with good things in it as well as reviews praising us for things that another review criticises us for), and of course, all of the really good reviews I have lost because it has taken me so long to put this site together (trust me!):
Reverence For Life
The Happy Ghosts is the current musical vehicle for multi-instrumentalist Andrew Muecke, and this release 'Reverence for Life' is a collection of songs composed around Albert Schweitzer's philosophy of the same name.
Personally, I enjoy the discovery of new horizons through music and applaud composers who seek to enlighten listeners by introducing them to new concepts that they might otherwise have never explored. For those who just want the music, this album stands on its own as a well produced collection of pop songs that are easily accessible to most listeners. Those who look for the story behind the music will enjoy this album more if they familiarize themselves with the works of Dr Schweitzer and then seek to relate the music and songs to the theory underpinning their construction.
Andrew Muecke has a long history expressed across several musical projects (refer to www.andrewmuecke.com); on this album he has written the music and lyrics and played most of the instruments on all 14 songs. In many ways this is an Andrew Muecke solo project, but with contributions from Matt Cahill (vocals on "Voices") and Carrie Barr (vocals on the others tracks). Brother Jon Muecke also makes a cameo appearance on guitar on one track.
Opening track "Voices" evokes David Bowie of the late '90s and serves as a bookend for the album, with the final track being a short reprise. With its catchy rhythm and Matt Cahill's mellow vocals, this is a strong but deceptive opening, as Carrie Barr then takes over vocal duties for the rest of the album.
Most of the tracks have quite a mellow mood to them, with synthesizers, funky bass, programmed beats, flutes and sundry sound effects overlaid as the mood dictates. This is a well constructed album that does not fit into and easily defined genre. There is enough variety to ensure that the music is not repetitive, but enough consistency to ensure that each song feels like it fits. This consistency and the upbeat nature of the album's mood reflect the Schweitzer philosophy in musical and lyric form. A joy to listen to and contemplate.
Reviewed by Phil Catley, Music SA 15 June 2012
(First ever 5-star review awarded by MusicSA!)
Silver Lining
It's hard these days to sort music into genres with any degree of accuracy which gives rise to the confusing phenomenon of artists being forced to label themselves with the term "experimental". This is an understandable problem, given that sometimes your music just doesn't fit into established or named styles. Happy Ghosts CD "Silver Lining" is not what I would call experimental but in that case, what is it? The bread-and-butter description is of a collection of 15 electronica style tracks which are mostly quite short for the genre, averaging around 3 minutes with the exception being the final track "Tuning In" at 04:26.
The CD begins with a funky, up-beat vibe with the instrumentation seeming to be live bass with electronic drums and synths plus vocal sample cut-up, and what might be an understated use of guitars here and there. The term "funk" would be the best general descriptor I could apply to this music, although there are darker, more moody moments to be found if you listen.
Tracks such as "On the Move" and "Gonna Do It" include both male and female live vocals as well as the sample cut-up which demonstrate unfortunate problems with timing, indicating possible audio recording latency which could have been addressed. Or possibly performance inaccuracy?
Overall however, the production on this album is fairly slick and nicely mixed with well-chosen ensembles that suit the very laid-back and sometimes ambient tone of the music. The sample cut-up is witty (listen to "Beautiful Homes") without being aggressive or startling, and underpins the music rather than taking a feature role.
Most of the album is firmly anchored in major progressions with the exception of "Emergency", my favourite track of this collection which offers a darker, less funky flavour and more in the way of a possible message. This piece also demonstrates an appropriate use of reverb which muddies up the sound nicely without destroying the intent. Noise is nice.
Another dirtier track with a slightly rockier and more bent feel is "Strange New Shape". The tracks which most deserve the label "experimental" are probably the last 2 which leave the funky bass lines and beats at home and take the synths and guitars on holiday instead. Strange to think that those old staples the electric guitars (or simulations) can still provide the basis for the more unusual music.
When reviewing other people's music I often come across the difficulty of analysing the intention of the artists – it's difficult to provide a fair critique without knowing exactly what it was the creator was hoping to achieve. I don't think that this is an album for dancing to, unless you wanted to do a slow groove around the lounge room whilst dusting the bookshelves. Neither is it music for doing yoga to, perhaps it's somewhere in between. There is an audience for Happy Ghosts and I hope that they continue to release their music and grow with it.
Reviewed by Dorothy Pawlowski, Music SA 24 December 2008
Adelaide-based duo Andrew Muecke and Ashley Starkey (AKA Happy Ghosts) have already received local accolades for their short films and video work, with last year's debut Secret Code of Beauty album emerging after a series of independent EP releases over the past three years. A scant year on, this follow-up effort Silver Lining sees Happy Ghosts growing in both confidence and ambition, with their eclectic fusion of dub, post-rock and downbeat electronic elements taking on new levels of depth and detail. There's also still the creeping, yet subtle, sense of unease that pervaded this album's predecessor, something that's particularly brought out amidst the eerie movie samples that drift through the dubbed-out Emergency. The second time around, Happy Ghosts have managed to craft an album that nicely pushes the bar up compared to their debut effort, whilst also hinting at the new directions they could take next.
Reviewed by evilchris, 3D WORLD, 26th November, 2008
There's something richly amusing about this experimental duo's latest CD silver lining. Members Andrew Muecke and Ashley Starkey, ably assisted by Carrie Barr who Carries the vocals on a number of tracks, have seemingly diversified their sound by introducing elements of pop, psychedelia, tribal rhythms and grooves.
That's right, this experimental duo have experimentally returned to the musical mainstream in what must be the safest bet this side of $10 on the sun to rise tomorrow.
Which isn't to say that's a bad thing. Experimental music is always in danger of sounding like a couple of meatheads who can't play instruments, banging some rocks together and calling it music. By introducing known elements, but playing with them and presenting them in interesting ways, they're forcing the mind to take a double take, hearing familiar sounds in unfamiliar settings.
This is probably best exemplified by Radio Stories where elements of esoteric sounds, vocal samples, funky bass jams and tape squeals intermingle and combine to great effect, a consistent, ebb and flow that resonates well, letting the mind complete the story.
Of course this doesn't always work. Did Anything Happen sounds a bit like a stoned David Bowie impersonator, sitting about, saying what he sees like Randy Newman. That's a rare lowlight though. Even some of the other more idiosyncratic tracks like Emergency have a driving energy throughout them that that compels, helping create a musical journey as the album progresses.
And, with the country inspired Strange New Shape, complete with Simon & Garfunkel overtones leading in to the rock balladish Goodbye Goodbye, you get a definite sense of this music leading somewhere.
This may not be for everyone but with an intelligent deconstruction of musical motifs and, most importantly, a good explication of musicianship, this is an interesting album where the few wrongs are overcome by the many rights. My one real criticism is that it doesn't always go far enough and sometimes ends up relying on the musical modes it's trying to reconfigure. Evocative and generally thoughtful, 3 Stars!
Reviewed by TheDon, inthemix.com.au, 6th November 2008
'Secret Code of Beauty' is the latest LP release from local ambient-electronica producers, Andrew Muecke and Ashley Starkey, AKA Happy Ghosts. The album comprises of 10 tracks each one unique in their own way, some groovy ambient, some haunting, some just out there. 'Secret Code of beauty' takes you on journey that you stoner electro freaks will want to take again.
The album is an eclectic collection of samples filled in with creative vocal passages, funky bass and guitar, groovy percussion/beats and haunting strings. It is well crafted and has good continuity.
Most tracks are funky and danceable with melodic guitar motifs and trippy vocal samples and groovy beats. I liked the placement of grungy samples and the thought given to instrumentation and arrangements.
Mostly it is free flowing ambient electronica but with defined sections. I also enjoyed the occasional appearance of African percussion also piano and trumpet and some synths all us electro heads know and love. Go Reason!
The creators identify with composers such as David Sylvain, the Clash, and the Beatles but the album has a very Australian feel to it. There are also great storylines in the form of poetic lyrics and free style vocal passages, these only add to the journey. I was surprised to hear operatic vocals on track ten "Lament" a cool way to round off the album, and there is a bonus track too. Overall a unique creation from the duo.
The guys also create VJ style music videos that can be found on Myspace (www.myspace.com/happyghosts). Definitely worth a look.
The independent local act has had some recent success with video exposure on "Rage", local radio and a review of 'Secret Code of Beauty' in the Sydney Morning Herald. If you like your ambient grooves check them out!
Reviewed by Dale Taylor, MUSIC SA, 29th May 2008
This pleasant diversion from ambient Adelaide duo Happy Ghosts doesn't quite ever get airborne. Andrew Muecke and Ashley Starkey have won a host of plaudits for their EP video clips since forming three years ago and this is their first standalone audio longplayer. But you're left with the nagging feeling we're missing a visual accompaniment to many of these tracks.
Muecke employs an impressive range of instruments, from African-influenced percussion on Wealth & Waste to a buzzing bass on Loosen Up, while Starkey interjects with a dizzying array of sampled snatches, mixed and mashed up refracted voices from the ether.
On Young, a small boy reminisces about ice creams and sea smells, while Yes Yes Yes juxtaposes a breezy rollercoaster announcer ('sit tight' etc) with an ironically monotonous Latin trio. Secret Code of Beauty opens promisingly with the fuzzy guitar and sample-heavy Trouble Maker but thereafter settles a little too comfortably into a one-note ambient soundscape. The tempo gradually drops until Should Have Known, whose vibe is so laidback it could have been culled from the soundtrack to the seminal humanist film Koyaanisqatsi.
The album's probably best experienced at a single sitting at high volume, where the tracks meld seamlessly into a multi-instrumental dreamscape. After such an eclectic series of samples, the operatic diva on the closing Lament comes as a welcome relief. It would have rounded off the LP nicely but for the addition of a brave but ill-judged cover of Bloc Partys The Prayer, which strips back the hi-energy original into a fractured breakbeat with jazzy sax, disconcertingly converting Kele Okereke's soaring vocals into a painstakingly dour Dave Gahan-lite.
At its best (Yes Yes Yes), this could be lifted straight off Brian Eno and David Byrne's My Life In the Bush Of Ghosts, but at its worst (Eternal Flame), its a meandering, inconsequential effort that needs the added boost of Happy Ghosts multimedia muscle.
Reviewed by Alexander Maxwell, BEAT Magazine, 6th February 2008
Ideas sustain this South Australian duo – snippets of thought, insufficient to produce a song, but sounding like Massive Attack when fused. The tunes are ambient, the sound reflecting the duo's work on soundtracks, but there is the occasional squall of a trumpet or guitar. The music is at its best when woven from the prosaic: on Young they set the rambling lists of a child's recount against glassy chords, while on Lament they set an opera amid the hum of cicadas.
Reviewed by Erik Jensen, Sydney Morning Heald, 1st March 2008
'The secret is to just stick with instruments and samples'
Happy Ghosts are an instrumental duo from Adelaide who specialise in cruisy, slightly funky and ambient electronic music. The kind of thing you could play on a loop at cocktail bars of inoffensive dinner parties. Lifting samples from jazz, soul and bossa nova records, it is a surprisingly confident and listenable release. The music is slick, laid-back and well produced, but what's with the vocals? More inane chatter than actual organized lyrics, the words spoken/mumbled by Ashley Starkey actually border on extremely annoying about halfway through the release. And sadly, it doesn't get any better with time. I don't care if you have the most thought provoking lyrics of all time (and trust me, Under my thumb/what does that song mean?/out of our heads! doesn't come across as particularly deep), if you're fishing for the note, I'll be fishing for the fast forward button. And I bet I can get there quicker.
Reviewed by Mitch Alexander, RAVE Magazine, 6th February 2008
Loosen Up
Definitely interesting material all round, which in turn tells me that we best keep an ear to the underground because what's bubbling beneath may soon break to the surface and take on the big guns.
Reviewed by Steve Jones, DB Magazine 7th February 2007)
Something Beautiful
'Something Beautiful' is the latest offering from local Adelaide duo Happy Ghosts. Happy Ghosts are Andrew Muecke and Ashley Starkey and together they have produced a very unique CD.
It contains four tracks of downbeat electronica all with a distinct feel and sound within the ambience of this genre. You won't find the usual 'verse, chorus, verse' here, and yet the tracks all have their own solid foundation. This can be heard in the use of sequenced drums and keyboards, but it is the layering of vocals, guitar and spoken-word samples that creates the real aural experience.
Track 1, 'Something Beautiful', sets the scene with it's smooth pop rhythm, looped synth chords, slap-back vocals and curious lyrics. Not to mention the expanded stereo field which places the music outside the speakers!
Track 2, 'Four Emotions', features guest vocalist Carrie Barr. It cruises along at a funky pace with an archetypal beat that has it's origins in the music of West Africa. The track is the most dreamlike of the four. Carrie's sweet multi-layered vocals drift across sustained keyboard textures. It's almost hymn-like in it's atmosphere.
Track 3, 'Sharks or Skin', is reminiscent of Happy Ghost's earlier material with it's seemingly random fragments of speech, set to a poppy electronic beat. It has a surreal effect especially with the chromatic 'sirens' in the background!
The last track, 'Jungle Music' at 1'54", is more like an outro. It comes in with a cathedral organ playing a pentatonic scale, heavily reverbed with a ringing guitar. This is followed by some more curious spoken-word samples and then suddenly, it all ends……At first you just sit there, then you get up and play the whole thing again!
And that is the essence of this CD. It is something you can listen to many times over and never get bored. 'Something Beautiful' is a fascinating, creative and very engrossing piece of electronica.
adelaidebands.com (A.Sheerin December 2005)
Paranormal Behaviour
The Happy Ghosts are an Adelaide based downbeat electronica duo, with an interesting angle. They don't want to rock out, or get a floor pumping… Andrew Muecke and Ashley Starkey are producing a performance that is far more theatrical and visual than most. Their debut disc 'Paranormal Behaviour' throws up four tracks that manage to cover a lot of musical ground for an EP. Whimsical and shifting, it shows the world that the Happy Ghosts have the self-confidence to avoid mimicking established acts.
The album holds together in a wonderfully elastic way. There are samples peppered throughout the disc with a common source… they're old TV and film grabs, and they look at family, and domestic life in days gone by. The samples are charming and antiquated, and create a nice crunchy contrast to the cleanly recorded instrumentation. The instrumentation is quite varied, though it would seem that Andrew speaks most eloquently through his work on guitar, and with his drum sequencing.
Further evidence of the act's confidence is their comfortable, and recognisably Australian vocal elements. Three of the tracks feature Ashley's voice, which has a lazy Australian drawl about it that he isn't ashamed to hide. His vocals are often breathy, verging on whispered or spoken, and he relies on the character in his voice to make up make up for any musical imprecision.
The opening track 'Booze & Pills' is musically beautiful, and the samples' cautionary notes on substance abuse and addiction are entertaining and at the same time, a little disturbing. The distorted guitar that comes in towards the end of the track brings it to a tidy climax, and it's easy to hear why they chose this as their first video track. Unfortunately, the video is not included on the disc.
The Ideal Date' features an unusual mix, with a bold and simple synth string line over a ultra-downbeat pseudo-trudge. I think that this and many other tracks on the CD could benefit from the replacement of Ashley's vocals with a stronger voice, or perhaps a heavily effected one. My opinion holds for the third track, 'Want Me'. The beds and samples for these tracks are sound, and the sunnier side of the Happy Ghosts shines through here
Saving the best for last, 'For the Sun' (mixed by Brett Sody) starts off with a busier beat that's bold, dark and crisp. It sits behind layers of stuttering film samples and what sound like heavily effected, or synthesized strings. Different guitar lines come and go while spacious reverbs and drum effects give this track a greater richness than previous tracks. The only purely instrumental and sample driven track on the disc, this was the stand out for me, and left me anticipating the group's next Happy Ghosts release.
IN THE MIX Review (Dagman, November 1, 2005)


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The Ultimate Family Safari
The Ultimate Family Safari
South Africa is one of the most popular countries in all of Africa. This place has it all, from unbeatable safari experiences to sensations and exclusive outposts.
from $10,500 pp 11 Days/10 Nights $954/Day
South Africa is one of the most popular countries in all of Africa, and it's easy to see why. This place has it all, from unbeatable safari experiences to sensational and exclusive outposts.
Sabi Sands and Timbavati feel like home to our team and feature many of our favorite outposts. The iconic city of Cape Town constantly surprises and amazes you from wine tasting in Stellenbosch, meeting the local penguins on Boulders Beach, climbing beautiful Lion's Head Mountain, and so much more.
Give us a ring at
Days 1, 2, 3
Timbavati Reserve
You'll spend the first three nights of your journey at Simbavati River Lodge. Located in the heart of the world-renowned Timbavati Private Nature Reserve, part of the Greater Kruger National Park, this family-friendly camp is built on the banks of the Nhlaralumi River, a beautiful watercourse in the summer months when rain is plentiful and a dry riverbed in winter months. Shaded by age old Jackalberry and Leadwood trees, Simbavati River Lodge is warm and welcoming, with a generous contemporary design and accommodation in luxury tented rooms or thatched chalets. When you're not enjoying the accommodations, spend your days traversing over nearly 30,000 acres in search of the famous Big 5: lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo. Keep an eye out, and you'll be sure to see them all. Simbavati takes its name from the local Shangaan language, translated as "the place where the lions come down from the stars."
Days 4, 5
Sabi Sands Game Reserve
Lion Sands River Lodge is located in the renowned Sabi Sand Private Game Reserve, on the border of the world-famous Kruger National Park. You'll spend the next three nights tucked away beneath a thatched roof next to the Sabi River. While there's plenty of wildlife to see on daily safaris while staying at River Lodge, we wouldn't blame you if you decide not to leave your room. Suites have outdoor showers, inviting hammocks, and private wooden decks where you can spy for animals and take in the elements from the comfort of your own space.
Days 6
The sixth evening of your South African safari might just be your favorite. Tonight, you'll cross a wooden drawbridge to the Kingston Treehouse for a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience sleeping beneath the stars. But don't be fooled—this isn't your childhood fort. The Kingston is constructed entirely from wood and glass, ensuring that you will be both protected from the elements but left to enjoy them as much as you desire. Kids in tow? Two kids under 15 are able to share the space with you (whether or not you'll want them to, well, that's up to you). Worried about wildlife getting a little too close? The main lodge is a mere five minutes away, and you'll have a radio. Now that's what we call an adventure.
Days 7, 8, 9, 10, 11
Cape Town Tour
The grand finale to your week and a half is four nights in Cape Town. You'll stay at More Quarters on Kloof Street just outside the heart of the city, an area known for an excellent array of markets, bars, and shops. The crisp white hotel features jazzy accents, and your room is in the style of an apartment offering you more flexibility on dining in or out as you please. During these final days, visit the local penguins, hike up Lion's Head, mountain bike nearby trails, or kayak on the open sea. There's sure to be something for the entire family in this urban adventure-mecca of South Africa.
- Experience Timbavati Private Nature Reserve, known for its white lions, while staying at Simbavati River Lodge
- Photograph and enjoy the Big 5: lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo
- Spend several nights at Lion Sands River Lodge on the Sabi Sand Private Game Reserve, going on twice daily safaris
- Spend a night at the famous Kingston Treehouse, where you'll be suspended among the African stars in a world of your own
- Explore all that Cape Town has to offer with a three night stay at More Quarters
- Hike Lion's Head or take the cable car up Table Mountain, go on a historical tour of the city, dive with sharks, and more
South Africa Ultimate Family Safari
Once you submit your form, we'll get back to you with ideas, questions, options and logistical insight to begin planning the trip of your dreams. It's as simple as that.


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7a 1596 W 14th Avenue, Vancouver MLS®: R2277152
"The Kingswood": an extraordinary harmony of traditional and modern architecture. This building stands above all the finest condo residences in the city. The unit features over 2,600 sq ft of luxury living including: 3 bedrooms, 4 baths, marble and hardwood flooring, house-sized rooms, extensive crown mouldings and millwork, gourmet kitchen with high-end appliances, beautiful natural light, 2 gas fireplaces, California closets, custom blinds, built-in vac, city and mountain views, A/C and in-floor radiant heat, 3 patios, 24-hour concierge, 1 HUGE storage and 3 parking! There are only 18 homes in this prestigious building. Enjoy this convenient, tucked away, location - just steps to shops, restaurants, Vancouver Lawn & Tennis Club, and the best that South Granville has to offer.
Taxes (2017): $9,458.20
- Air Cond./Central
- Elevator
- In Suite Laundry
- Storage
- ClthWsh
- Dryr
- Frdg
- Stve
- Drapes
- Window Coverings
- Oven-Built In
- Vacuum Blt. In
Site Influences
- Central Location
- Recreation Nearby
- Shopping Nearby
Similar Listings
Listed By: Macdonald Realty
Disclaimer: Listing data is based in whole or in part on data generated by the Real Estate Board of Greater Vancouver and Fraser Valley Real Estate Board which assumes no responsibility for its accuracy.


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According to a recent article in The Express, Britain is braced for the 'worst winter in decades' with the first major snowfall expected in just weeks while heavy wintry showers are expected to cause widespread chaos with below-average temperatures possibly lingering until February!
But you don't need to worry about the disruption caused by potential snow this winter. Plan ahead and weatherproof your business by taking advantage of our wide range of winter products including grit, shovels, spreaders, heaters and everything you need to keep your car moving!
Contact us on 01332 614602 or email: email@example.com


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Tanzania's Northern Safari Circuit includes some of the most famous and remarkable sights in the world, such as the annual Wildebeest Migration and the spectacular Ngorongoro Crater.
Take your faith to Africa and do some good whilst on safari. Wild Things works in cooperation with the diocese of Mahenge to provide medical facilities and educational materials for the remote village of Itete in the Kilombero Valley. If you choose we can arrange for you to visit the Old Mission there. Your faith tourism stay with the Parish Priest will directly contribute towards the project.
Whilst staying at in Itete there will also be the opportunity to enjoy some great Choir singing and pay a visit to the farms run by the local convent. There is a nearby orphanage which can be visited if you wish. This is run under an independent ministry.
We can also take you to various historical religious sites in Tanzania including the oldest church and remote cathedrals.We also offer tours of the Eastern Arc Mountains, the Serengeti and Selous for those who wish to combine their religious faith safari with serious hiking or wildlife. Contact us and we will personally design a remote Tanzanian spiritual adventure, tailored to suit your individual preferences.
What people say about us
Some comments from our past clients (Read more)
I'd like to say that our entire trip was truly amazing and a great once in a lifetime excursion. Everything was very well setup and we had no problems with any of the trip. Thanks to Wild Things.
Katye Vytal
United States of America, Jun 2013
Thank you very much for the organization of our Safari. We were really happy with our guide Henry and our cook. Everything was great. Henry was a wonderful guide, always on time.
C�line Gardiol
Switzerland, Jan 2013
We had a really great vacation on the Southern Circuit in Tanzania and wonderfully facilitated by our driver/guide Salim who was really first class - a great representative of Wild Things.
Steve Wallis
Belgium, Oct 2013
Thank you so much for the amazing safari! This was a great safari and I can't wait to give you a full brief and photos!
Genevieve Champagne
All the Parks visited are really wonderful, especially Ruaha and the "king" Katavi that worth absolutely the long trip (at least in our point of view). Yahaya and Salim are like two friends.
Massimo Randi
Austria, Jul 2013
We had an amazing time. Everything was perfect Francis was AMAZING we came to realize the guide you have is the key to a great safari. We will be sure to recomend you to anyone planning a trp to you
Serino Margaret
United States of America, Jun 2013
We had an excellent time and the trip was very well planned, the guides (and vehicles) excellent. Thank you very much for arranging it all!
Jackie, David and Sarah
Australia, Oct 2013


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Published: 2003/04/07
More Artists Added to 10,000 Lakes Festival; Line-up Includes Leo Kottke, The Big Wu
The 10,000 Lakes Festival has announced more bands for this years inaugural event, which is slated for July 3 5 in Detroit Lakes, MN. The line-up features Widespread Panic, The Allman Brothers Band, moe., Govt Mule, Galactic, Leftover Salmon, O.A.R., Robert Randolph & the Family Band, Leo Kottke, The Big Wu, Particle, Jerry Joseph & the Jackmormons, Wookiefoot, RANA, Topaz, ECHO, Donna the Buffalo and The Mccloskey Brothers Band, among others. Fans will have the option of purchasing Early Bird camping that will allow people to camp the night of July 2.
Complete details are available at www.10000lakesfestival.com.


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Growing up on the family ranch in Kansas, Harry developed early on an
uncanny connection to horses. This connection became the foundation for his
unique approach to horsemanship "…from the horse's point of view."
Riding and working with horses followed him throughout his school years.
Following his graduation from Kansas State University with a degree in
Animal Sciences, he showcased his talents with a roman riding act. It wasn't
long before people started to sit up and take notice of the remarkable results
he achieved with horses. At a neighbor's urging, he started training horses
for the public. It did not seem to matter the breed of horse or the discipline
for which it was intended - Harry calmly and purposefully approached each
with the sure knowledge that it could do what he was asking. The horses
became his testimony and a career was born. It wasn't long before the
friends and neighbors expanded into the public at large, who asked if he would share his knowledge in a clinic format. That was over twenty years ago. His popularity has continued to grow, a fairly remarkable feat given that he has become known mainly by word of mouth. Today, his clinics are conducted throughout the United States and abroad.
© Harry Whitney 2018 Website by Sage Canyon Studio


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The SEFCU routing number is 221373383. The routing number 221373383 is assigned to SEFCU based in Albany, New York to identify the credit union on negotiable instruments such as checks as well as on electronic funds transfers such as wire transfers and ACH transfers.
The routing number assigned to SEFCU may also be referred to as the SEFCU ABA number, SEFCU routing transit number, or the SEFCU check routing number.
SEFCU is among the 50 largest credit unions in the U.S. SEFCU operates more than 40 branches in the Capital Region, Binghamton, Syracuse, and Buffalo in New York. All of the managed branches by SEFCU use the same routing number to identify financial transaction including the locations in Albany, Altamont, Amherst, Amsterdam, Binghamton, Buffalo, Castleton, Cicero, Clifton Park, Cobleskill, Colonie, Cooperstown, East Greenbush, Glenmont, Glenville, Kirkwood, Latham, Malta, Saratoga Springs, Schenectady, Slingerlands, Syracuse, Troy, Vestal, and Williamsville, NY.
SEFCU customers can also find this number at the bottom of their SEFCU checks. Customers will see three groups of numbers running along the base of the check. The first group is the routing number, the second is customers account number and the third is the check number.
The SEFCU routing number may be frequently used by customers of the credit union for direct deposits, switching accounts to SEFCU, setting online bill pay, SEFCU online banking functions, and other financial transactions.
To avoid any delays with financial transactions using the routing number, contact a SEFCU representative to verify the routing number and other relevant information before engaging in a financial transaction. A SEFCU customer service representative can be reached by calling the member services number at 518-452-8183 or toll free at 800-727-3328. Additional information is available at the credit union web site located at sefcu.com.
The credit union and credit union routing number information presented on SEFCU is not guaranteed and may have changed since this publication date.


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How to Travel Around Singapore
Available Convenient Transportation
Getting around Singapore is a breeze as the country has an extensive public transport system that is efficient, convenient and affordable. The 3 main modes of public transport are public buses, the Mass Rapid Transit (MRT), which is known as subway or metro rail system in some countries, and taxis.
A convenient online Singapore transportation and travel guide is the TransitLink eGuide website. It provides a one-stop point-to-point information on how to travel around in Singapore, the MRT and bus travel time and routes.
If you are using an iPhone, you can download a free app, SG NextBus from the iTunes Store that provides estimated arrival time at the bus stops you are waiting at. For Android phones, SG Buses is a popular app available for free on Google Play.
Free Hotel Shuttle Bus Service
You can hop on the hotel's free shuttle bus service if you want to travel to Orchard Road and Clarke Quay.
The bus departs from the hotel at 10:03 , 11:03, 13:03 and 15:03.
Luggage is not allowed on this free shuttle bus.
Public Buses
There is a bus-stop just outside the hotel with the following bus service numbers:
- 51 – To Chinatown, Clarke Quay MRT Station, Funan Digital Mall and Bugis
- 64 – To Plaza Singapura shopping mall, Dhoby Ghaut MRT Station, Little India and Mustafa Centre
- 123 – To 313@somerset, Somerset MRT Station, ION Orchard, Orchard Boulevard (next to Orchard Road), Orchard MRT Station and Singapore Botanic Gardens
- 186 – To Chinatown, Raffles Place MRT Station and Shenton Way
Singapore has one of the most efficient, comprehensive and affordable bus transportation services in the world.
The buses run on most routes between 06:00 and 00:00 and you can pay in cash or use an ez-link card, which is an electronic cash card that can be purchased in all Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) stations and bus interchanges.
If you are paying by cash, please ensure you have the exact amount as you will not be given change. You can check with the bus driver on the correct fare to your destination. It is advisable to pay in coins, which you can exchange for at our Front Office cashier.
Mass Rapid Transit (MRT)
The MRT stations nearest to the hotel are:
- Clarke Quay - 4th bus-stop on bus 51 or 3rd bus-stop on 186
- Chinatown- 3rd bus-stop on 186 (cross the road and walk to Chinatown Point)
- Dhoby Ghaut - 5th bus-stop on bus 64
- Orchard - 8th bus-stop on bus 123
- Raffles (at Raffles Place) - 4th bus-stop on bus 186 (follow signage to MRT station)
- Somerset - 6th bus-stop on bus 123
- Tiong Bahru - from bus-stop opposite the hotel, 5th bus-stop on bus 123
The MRT (subway or metro rail system as known in some countries) is seen as one of the most modern and efficient in the world. It is a fast and inexpensive way mode of transportation and the train service runs from 05:30 to 00:30 daily. You can pay by cash or ez-link card.
If you are using an iPhone, you can download the free app, SMRTConnect from the iTunes Store. Created by SMRT, a main public transport company that runs most of Singapore's train network, you can access all bus and train services' information across its network while keeping up-to-date with any train service updates. You can even check train arrival times, search bus stop location or book an SMRT taxi through the application.
Taxis are readily available in Singapore. Depending on the types of taxis, the basic flag-down fare is S$3.00 to S$3.40, inclusive of the first 1 km or less. For a limousine, it is S$3.90.
There are additional surcharges during peak hours, from midnight to 05:59 or if you are alighting at selected prime locations, including Changi Airport.
If your destination includes going through Electronic Road Pricing (ERP) gantries in designated restricted zones, you will have to bear the additional ERP charges.
You can also call for a taxi at the following numbers:
- Dial-A-Cab – (65) 6342 5222
- CityCab and Comfort Taxi – (65) 6552 1111
- SMRT Taxis – (65) 6555 8888
- SMART Cabs – (65) 6485 7777
- TransCab – (65) 6555 3333
- Premier Taxis – (65) 6363 8888
- Prime Taxi – (65) 6778 0808
- Yellow-Top Taxi – (65) 6293 5545
Booking fees are applicable when you call for a taxi. Please click here for more details about the taxi fares and other information.
* All Information is correct at the time of publishing.


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Another great read from Sarina Bowen! I can't wait to see who's story we will read about next (I know who I want, but we'll see.)
I absolutely adore Lianna and DJ. ADORE. Their story was so much fun, and slightly sad at the same time. I will say that DJ's story was easy to figure out early on, but I still enjoyed seeing how it would be resolved so that he and Lianne could get together. They were so sweet together, I just couldn't help rooting for them.
To make it even better, there were some appearances from some of my favorite characters, like Graham and Rikker. ❤ Love them! I couldn't help squeeing a bit when they made an appearance. (Is it bad that I just want another book with Graham and Rikker???)
While this story does follow a similar plot line like the previous books–girl and boy dance around each other, flirt, eventually get together only to have something break them up and then get back together–I got caught up into Lianne's and DJ's stories. I wanted to know how their individual situations would be resolved, and that is what I love about Sarina Bowen's Ivy Years series. She creates characters that are down to earth and who you cannot help but cheer for. I absolutely adore these books!
I give the book four out of five stars for some predictability, but I love that she deals with some very serious issues in this book. To not spoil the book, I won't say exactly what that is because I feel it might give away DJ's story.
If you haven't read Bowen's books, you need to! However, this book is a standalone, so you do not need prior experience with the series. They are so much fun, and involve hockey! A sport I am rapidly coming to love.
My Rating: 4/5 stars
Purchase here: Amazon | Barnes & Noble


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KTM Rear Sprocket Orange 45T (59010051045/04)
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Help your family live better!
Health Resolution #1: Get screened for your health regularly
Scheduling health screening and check-ups every year goes a long way in detecting certain conditions before symptoms persist. Early detection and treatment can help to reduce the risk of complications and the cost of treatment that follows.
Common health screening tests include blood pressure measurement, screening for diabetes, cholesterol and cancer markers as well as a Pap Smear (for ladies) and a colonoscopy to help detect colon rectal cancer (for men).
Health Resolution #2: Schedule for shots before travelling
Before you jet off for a family getaway, don't forget to look into your travel vaccinations and medication a few weeks before your trip.
Take some time to read up on your holiday destination and find out what disease you might be at risk for. Schedule an appointment with your family doctor four to six weeks before your flight to get the necessary shots and medication to take along with you
Health Resolution #3: Make healthy food a norm
Maintaining a healthy, well-balanced diet involves a whole lot of willpower to replace greasy food, sweets and snacks in your home with fresh food and vegetables. Highly regarded as superfoods, fruits and vegetables are packed with a host of vitamins and minerals that are beneficial to your health. As an added bonus, children may be more likely to choose healthy foods and snacks when they practice this habit at home!
Health Resolution #4: Evaluate your quality of sleep
Sleep plays an important role in maintaining your health and well-being. Getting enough sleep at night can help to protect your mental and physical health, as well as your quality of life
Studies have shown that sleep deficiency alters the activity in some parts of the brain and has been linked to depression and behavioral problems, especially in teens. Thus, as a general rule of thumb, health experts recommend that we get a minimum 7 to 8 hours of sleep per night.
Health Resolution #5: Wash your hands regularly
We might be aware of the importance of washing our hands after going to the bathroom, but it is also vital that we make it a point to wash our hands at other times – especially before coming into contact with food. This is a great way to eliminate germs and to minimise the risk of illness for you and your family. Germs are present on almost every surface that our bodies come into contact with and regular hand washing can help to keep them away.
Health Resolution #6: Exercise together
Most parents tend to use their kids as an excuse for skipping a workout, but it is still possible to spend quality time with them and fit in some exercise at the same time. Going for a walk or run in the park or playing badminton with them are some great ways to stay active while bonding as a family outdoors. If the weather is not in your favour, you can head to the gym together instead – or go window shopping while walking around the mall in your neighborhood.


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David Fallis (Artistic Director, The Toronto Consort; Music Director, Opera Atelier) in conversation with HAC Board member and Hammer Baroque Artistic Director Bud Roach. November 7th, 2016.
The Toronto Consort will present ``The Italian Queen of France`` at Hammer Baroque on Sunday, November 13th, 2016, 4pm.
INTERVIEW WITH DAVID FALLISNovember 11, 2016 by Bud Roach
David Fallis (Artistic Director, The Toronto Consort; Music Director, Opera Atelier) in conversation with HAC Board member and Hammer Baroque Artistic Director Bud Roach. November 7th, 2016.
Interview with Recordist Alison MelvilleSeptember 30, 2016 by Bud Roach
This week, Hamilton Arts Council Board member and Hammer Baroque Artistic Director Bud Roach presents the second installment of his new blog video series. This second in-depth conversation features Alison Melville (recorder - Tafelmusik, Toronto Consort) who performs in Hammer Baroque concerts on October 8th (ACTA Recorder Quartet) and November 13th (Toronto Consort).
Interview with Cellist Alex GrantSeptember 22, 2016 by Bud Roach
This week, Hamilton Arts Council Board member Bud Roach begins a new video blog series featuring in-depth conversations with members of the arts community. New Arts Council member Alex Grant, cellist at the Shaw Festival in Niagara-On-The-Lake, talks about what attracted him to Hamilton, working at the Shaw Festival, and his favourite moments in the current Shaw production of Sweeney Todd, on stage until October 19th.
A Labour of LoveSeptember 1, 2016 by 5 at the First ...
Rachel Mercer is Artistic Director of the 5 at the First Chamber Music Series. She joined the National Arts Centre Orchestra as Associate Principal Cello in January 2016 and is a member of the Mercer-Park Duo and Ensemble Made In Canada. She plays the 1730 Newland Celoniatus Cello graciously on loan from the Canada Council for the Arts Musical Instrument Bank. Find her at www.rachelmercercellist.com or Follow 5 at the First on Facebook and Twitter @5attheFirst.
The church sanctuary is filling up as the last audience members take their seats. There is a hum in the air as people chat in low voices, about their day or in anticipation of the concert they are about to hear. Suddenly the house lights dim a bit, the stage lights brighten and there is a hush; a side door opens and in walk the musicians, smiling, with a spring in their step, and ready to give all they can in the couple of hours they share with this audience.
This moment, that lasts to the final applause at the end of the concert, is the moment when the concert presenters finally get to enjoy the fruit of their endless labour. I never realized until I began presenting a series how much goes on behind the scenes to enable those two hours of wonderful music. As a performer, while we communicate for years before the concert about details of programming, fees and travel, the real ground work is being done even earlier with board meetings, fundraising, grant writing, venue booking, programming, fundraising, scheduling, negotiating, promoting, fundraising again...it is a complete labour of love and we performers are so lucky there are those amazing people who love and believe in live music so deeply that they are willing to sacrifice time and financial gain to enable these moments.
While I would never compare myself to these special people, at 5 at the First, my colleague Michele Corbeil and I are the worker bees; me covering the programming, booking, grant writing and financial side, and Michele pounding the pavement with flyers and posters and reaching out to the community for sponsors and volunteers, while being in charge of everything behind the scenes on the concert day. There is always more to do; promotion, finding more money, making sure the artists are taken care of, but that hectic buzz of activity is suspended from the moment the lights go down to the final applause. As a performer, during the concert there are those transporting moments where everything aligns and you lose your self and are just at one with the music, the other musicians and the audience, and time stops; it's an addictive high that feeds our need to perform. But it's another kind of reward, softening and heart-warming, when you sit in the audience and see their smiles, see the heads bobbing, hear your amazing colleagues on stage, hear the audience appreciation in applause and words afterward, knowing that you took part in making it happen.
5 at the First's opening concert features String Extravaganza VI - the return of our audience's favourite string group - in a concert of duos, then all six musicians together for Erich Korngold's gem of a Sextet. Korngold has a large body of work, but is most well-known for his film composition, including the score for Errol Flynn's Robin Hood. The rest of the 2016-17 season features players from across Ontario in programs of beloved and rarely-performed music, including Schubert, Haydn, Vaughan-Williams, Rossini, Canadian works, and an all-original jazz concert of Darren Sigesmund's Strands Ensemble. 5 at the First is grateful for support from the Ontario Arts Council and individual donors.
*Banner Image: Rachel Mercer [Photo: David Leyes]
Singing the Praises of Business Volunteer for the ArtsJune 29, 2016 by Mary Ellen Forsyth
Submitted by the John Laing Singers (JLS), on behalf of the JLS Board of Directors. JLS is a 28-voice chamber choir in the Hamilton-Burlington area, established in 1982 by Conductor and former Artistic Director John Laing. Follow them on Facebook and Twitter @JLSingers.
The 2015/16 season of the John Laing Singers (JLS) has given the choir much to celebrate, with two world premiere compositions and several new community collaborations. Adding to our sense of celebration is a new sense of confidence in meeting the challenges of the future. Under the guidance of the Hamilton Arts Council, the choir has been able to step out of its "safe zone" and begin a new journey in its 34-year history.
Before the start of our 34th season last fall, the feeling in the JLS Board was one of discouragement as we pondered our disappointing grant application results, a challenging budget and dwindling audience size. Like many arts organizations, the choir was struggling to find funding and support among the ever-growing and competitive Hamilton area arts community. Over the years, the JLS had evolved using a variety of resources from box office revenues, grants, community sponsors and memberships, but with the increasing competition for funds among local growing arts groups, it became evident that we needed to adapt to the changing arts environment or face our final curtain call.
Realizing that as an organization we had fallen into a comfortable but ultimately unsustainable pattern of relatively predictable performances, we reached out to our friends at the Hamilton Arts Council (HAC). Aware too that we needed a strategic plan to guide the choir on a new road of sustainability and growth, we requested a meeting to explore resources that might be available to us as a community partner.
Choir representatives met with Stephen Near, Operations Officer of the HAC, with no expectations other than to walk away with a few ideas to try out. We never expected to be offered a resource that would have such a profound impact on our organization, and could not have predicted that the outcome of this meeting would reshape our identity so completely.
Stephen introduced us to a new HAC initiative, the Business Volunteers for the Arts (BVA) program, which partners local business experts with struggling arts organizations. He had a candidate in mind who would be willing to work with us and act as a guide and mentor. Through Stephen, we arranged to meet with BVA consultant Dawn Cattapan to discuss our group and our plans for the next season, hoping to make an impression that would encourage her to partner and help us with our strategic plan.
Dawn's résumé reflects extensive experience in community arts administration, communication, customer engagement and creative program development in the music sector. Our cordial initial meeting at a local café, to chat and discuss our choir's successes and challenges, augured well for a great partnership. Dawn responded with warmth and empathy to the challenges that we described. She accepted our invitation to meet in early September with the JLS Board, where we presented our Strategy Document. The document gave an overview of the challenges we were facing and what we hoped to accomplish over the next year to address them. We had many projects outlined, which needed both business expertise and an objective eye.
Dawn provided a wealth of information regarding funding opportunities and strategic planning processes. With this information we developed and refined the strategic plan for rebranding and marketing for the next year. Dawn then recommended grants that would be beneficial to review, based on our strategic plan and objectives for the next year. She reviewed our grant responses and provided feedback that was extremely helpful in focusing our strengths and clarifying how we viewed ourselves as an organization requesting funding. For example, Dawn encouraged us to emphasize the choir's "sweat equity" in planning extra concerts to increase our community presence; to stress vital points such as accessibility, visibility and community enrichment; and always to discern and reflect back the tone used by grantors in their mandate. With Dawn's input, our application for an Ontario Arts Council (OAC) Compass grant, requesting an Arts Consultant to support our strategic plan implementation, was successful – a major step forward for the choir.
Dawn also helped to keep us questioning what we were asking and refocusing on the important elements such as community outreach, using local musicians and partnering with local businesses. With each new grant application, Dawn has made us more aware of the importance of these partnerships. She has taught us to be consistent, honest and focused in reaching further for the growth of our organization. Her input has been invaluable to us.
Through the BVA, we now have far more confidence in our ability to submit a strong application, knowing we have put our best efforts forward with a focus on our strategic plan, rebranding and community partnerships. A renewed vision, an increase in grant funds, the expertise of a strategic planning consultant and the confidence to rebrand and rebuild our choir: the BVA initiative has provided the JLS with all of these.
Plans for our next season (2016/17) include a new name launch; celebrating 35 years as a community choir; a choral celebration of Canada's Sesquicentennial; and a studio recording that will include local and national composers and musical artists. Thanks to the HAC and Dawn's guidance, we have much to celebrate now and as we head into the future under our new name: Musicata - Hamilton's Voices.


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Actual Cannibal Shia Labeouf
I was wandering around this old deserted road in the middle of some forest I couldn't for the life of me remember the name of. My phone was dead, I had no idea where I was, and no one had driven past for hours. Then out of the corner of my eye, I spotted someone - Shia Labeouf. He was following me, about 30 feet back. I saw him get down on all fours in a runner's position, then break into a sprint towards me. I frantically looked for my car, but I had wandered off and can't find it. He had almost gotten to me now and I could see there's blood on his face; my god there's blood everywhere!
I was running for my life from Shia Labeouf. He was brandishing a knife at me. He lurked in the shadows. Hollywood superstar, Shia Labeouf, was terrifying me. He's been living in the woods, killing for sport, and eating all the bodies. Shia Labeouf is an actual cannibal.
Now it's dark and I seemed to have lost him, but I'm hopelessly lost myself. Stranded in the woods with a murderer, I creeped silently through the underbrush. I kept praying to everything that he wouldn't hear or find me. Then, in the distance, I spotted a cabin. There was a light on, and it was almost like the embodiment of hope. I moved stealthily toward it, but then SNAP! My leg got caught in a bear trap! As quietly as I could, I pulled my mangled half-leg away from the bear trap, and wrapped
it with my t-shirt to slow the flow of blood. I started to limp toward the cottage, trying to keep quiet, despite the fact that half my leg had just been snapped off. I finally got to the doorstep, and I peered in the window. Shia Labeouf was sitting inside, sharpening an axe. I silently creeped inside, and snuck up behind him. I lunged forward and grabbed him around the neck. I was strangling a man whose movies I had loved when I was younger. I was fighting for my life like he had with the Transformers. He pulled out his knife again, and I wrestled it out of his hands. With a mighty roar, I stabbed it right into his kidney. I was finally safe from Shia Labeouf.
I limped into the dark woods, with blood oozing from my stump leg. Despite that, I was victorious. I had beaten Shia Labeouf. I then felt a cold hard something press against the back of my head. I heard Shia's voice whisper "Shia Surprise!". There was a gun to my head, and there was death in his eyes. Luckily for me I knew Jiu Jitsu, so I body slammed him to get away. I had a legendary fight with Shia that night. I figured this was a normal Tuesday night for him though. I tried to swing an axe at him, but the blood was draining fast from my leg, and I was too weak. He was dodging my every strike. He parried to the left, and I countered to the right. I caught him in the neck. I started chopping off his head, a rage flowing through me like I had never felt before. I looked down a couple seconds later and realized, I had just decapitated Shia Labeouf. His head toppled to the floor, expressionless. I fell to my knees and caught my breath. I was finally safe… From Shia Labeouf.
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Prof Antonio de Saldanha from the Department of History, Faculty of Social Sciences (FSS), University of Macau (UM), recently presented the latest finding of his research project developed at UM, a new historical document that is considered a major contribution to the study of the early modern history of Sino-Western relations. This document is a detailed manuscript on various topics about the Chinese society during the Ming dynasty, including social, legal, judiciary, political, and tributary systems, the geographical and administrative organisation, and the popular and elite cultures. It was authored by a Portuguese merchant, during the 13 years of his captivity in Guangzhou, subsequent to his capture in 1549 by the famous Ming General Zhu Wan, grand coordinator of Zhejiang and superintendent of military affairs for Zhejiang and Fujian Coastal Defense, during the piracy eradication naval campaigns at the Fujian-Guangdong border.
In the 1560s, the report, written in Macao after the release of its author, was sent to Europe where it stayed unnoticed, in the Roman Archives of the Society of Jesus. It can be now added to the list of the first six European manuscripts, written by Portuguese during their stay in different parts of China between the 1520s and the 1560s. The documents are thought to have formed the basis for the Western perception of China as the paradigm of a powerful, organised, and highly civilised Asian empire.
Prof Antonio de Saldanha is a renowned expert on the early history of Sino-Western relations, Iberian Empires in Asia, and the history of Macao. This important document was presented at the opening ceremony for the fifth conference on Macaology titled 'Macaology and the Development of Macao', which was chaired by FSS Dean Hao Yufan and co-organised by Jinan University, UM, Macao Polytechnic Institute, Macau University of Science and Technology, Social Sciences in China Press, and the Macao Foundation.